Thanks GG for posting a comment...
I did a few searches and to my knowledge, olive oil is a wonderful all around healthy choice to use on the body...aside from being wonderful to use on locs, it is a rich oil that heals the body:
http://www.garleo.com/page6.htm
Olive oil nourishes, conditions, and improves the strength and elasticity of your hair, while the couldn't-be-easier process is both stress-reducing and health-promoting. The best part is that it is easily absorbed and does not leave build-up that other products tend to do.
As always, it is important to clarify your locs no matter what routine you have to make sure that you give your locs a fresh start.
A little more info no how you can use olive oil:
http://www.care2.com/channels/solutions/bms/1000
Hope that helps!
Thursday, December 30, 2004
Wednesday, December 15, 2004
A LOOK AT HEMP SEED OIL...
Taken internally, it is thought by many to simulate growth of hair and nails, improve the health of the skin, and can even reduce inflammation from arthritis or related diseases.
While the hemp based shampoos and hair care products can offer the benefit of softer hair and skin, it can not be as supportive as taking the oil internally.
My experience is that it simulates growth of hair and nails, improves the health of the skin, and can reduce inflammation. I like the idea of having one good oil that supplies both omega-3s and GLA, without the need to take more capsules.
Some people experiment with adding hemp seed oil directly to their favorite shampoos and conditioners as a home grown custom recipe. Others will apply the oil directly to their hair as a form of conditioning. Not well suited as a hot oil treatment, the oil can still be applied to hair and left on overnight. It can also be used to oil braids, cornrows or other hair weaves.
If you wish to experiment by adding hemp oil to your hair start slowly with a little oil. If the formula works, you can slowly increase the amount you use.
The advantage that hemp seed offers is that it combines the benefits of omega 3 and omega 6 along with GLA. One product will supply what you need. If you take capsules this can be even more beneficial.
If you wish to take Hemp Seed Oil internally, there is good news. The oil has a distinct, earthy flavor and a light green color. Some people describe the taste of hemp seed oil is nutty. Many people enjoy the flavor.
TAKEN FROM THIS ARTICLE:
http://www.hairboutique.com/tips/tip091.htm
While the hemp based shampoos and hair care products can offer the benefit of softer hair and skin, it can not be as supportive as taking the oil internally.
My experience is that it simulates growth of hair and nails, improves the health of the skin, and can reduce inflammation. I like the idea of having one good oil that supplies both omega-3s and GLA, without the need to take more capsules.
Some people experiment with adding hemp seed oil directly to their favorite shampoos and conditioners as a home grown custom recipe. Others will apply the oil directly to their hair as a form of conditioning. Not well suited as a hot oil treatment, the oil can still be applied to hair and left on overnight. It can also be used to oil braids, cornrows or other hair weaves.
If you wish to experiment by adding hemp oil to your hair start slowly with a little oil. If the formula works, you can slowly increase the amount you use.
The advantage that hemp seed offers is that it combines the benefits of omega 3 and omega 6 along with GLA. One product will supply what you need. If you take capsules this can be even more beneficial.
If you wish to take Hemp Seed Oil internally, there is good news. The oil has a distinct, earthy flavor and a light green color. Some people describe the taste of hemp seed oil is nutty. Many people enjoy the flavor.
TAKEN FROM THIS ARTICLE:
http://www.hairboutique.com/tips/tip091.htm
MY LONGER LOCS ARE MID-BACK....
I remember not too long ago (or it seems that way anyways...) that I said I would be happy when the top locs on my head reach a proper shoulder length...and now they have.
I usually tie my locs up so its a strange feeling to have them hanging down and banging my back, my longest locs that have never been touched before are now touching mid-back!
In speaking to many of my loc friends, I'm so sure that its true to say that at one point of the journey to locdom, there is shrinkage, then a huge pause while everthing seems to stay a certain lentgth...and then HUGE growth coming from the roots directly as the shrinkage no longer occurs!
This is definately my HUGE growth time.... and it doesn't seem to be stopping any time soon. I was shocked when I was looking at the comparison pics again of April to now.... it really has been a few extra inches to the length.
I love it!
I usually tie my locs up so its a strange feeling to have them hanging down and banging my back, my longest locs that have never been touched before are now touching mid-back!
In speaking to many of my loc friends, I'm so sure that its true to say that at one point of the journey to locdom, there is shrinkage, then a huge pause while everthing seems to stay a certain lentgth...and then HUGE growth coming from the roots directly as the shrinkage no longer occurs!
This is definately my HUGE growth time.... and it doesn't seem to be stopping any time soon. I was shocked when I was looking at the comparison pics again of April to now.... it really has been a few extra inches to the length.
I love it!
Friday, December 10, 2004
Thursday, December 09, 2004
Wednesday, December 08, 2004
LAURYN'S LOCS
...I LOVE THE DETAILS IN THESE PICS, just goes to show that you don't need to have really cultivated locs to look stunning!
Monday, December 06, 2004
AND HE WANTS TO TALK TO ME ABOUT SELF HARM!??! ...
People's comments really don't bug me anymore...I just get on with things.
Its my head, I should be allowed to do what I want with it.
Same goes for their head...
But if someone I don't know goes out of their way to say to me that I am self harming myself for locing...don't expect me to be calm.
And this guy had a horrific relaxer in his hair... I really don't get why guys do it now?!?
So, I went off on one....he wants to talk to me about Self harm and damage, standing there and telling me that he is a student doing Chemistry at uni....I'm like, 'you don't have to be doing a chemistry degree to figure out a few things....duh!'
Would you dream of going into a chemistry lab and putting the same chemicals on your arm, if you didn't know it was the same relaxer ingredients? Doubt it. And he wants to talk about self harm....
Some people are just crazy. He was looking for a fight, he got one.
I walked off with a grin.
Its my head, I should be allowed to do what I want with it.
Same goes for their head...
But if someone I don't know goes out of their way to say to me that I am self harming myself for locing...don't expect me to be calm.
And this guy had a horrific relaxer in his hair... I really don't get why guys do it now?!?
So, I went off on one....he wants to talk to me about Self harm and damage, standing there and telling me that he is a student doing Chemistry at uni....I'm like, 'you don't have to be doing a chemistry degree to figure out a few things....duh!'
Would you dream of going into a chemistry lab and putting the same chemicals on your arm, if you didn't know it was the same relaxer ingredients? Doubt it. And he wants to talk about self harm....
Some people are just crazy. He was looking for a fight, he got one.
I walked off with a grin.
Saturday, December 04, 2004
HEMP OIL, SHEA BUTTER AND OTHER SOAPS...
I bought a few soaps....I have this new addiction to buying natural soaps and searching all the options...
I still say that my traditional black soap always comes first though, it always lathers up and smells just right. As a second wash, I always finish with another natural soap that contain oils.
I'm looking forward to my hemp oil soap and I heard shea butter is good too!
I still say that my traditional black soap always comes first though, it always lathers up and smells just right. As a second wash, I always finish with another natural soap that contain oils.
I'm looking forward to my hemp oil soap and I heard shea butter is good too!
Thursday, December 02, 2004
3 YEARS AND 4 MONTHS...
I don't think the buzz of counting months will ever wear off until I get to the year 5 mark... Which is what my goal is.
After that, I'll probably get bored of counting each month lol, and maybe I'll suddenly realise that its been 10years already lol!
We'll see.
After that, I'll probably get bored of counting each month lol, and maybe I'll suddenly realise that its been 10years already lol!
We'll see.
Monday, November 29, 2004
HOW TO....LOOSE ENDS...
I'm still on a mission to get those curly ends...so I was given this info:
http://www.naani.com/how_do_you_remove_locks_.htm
The Technique
You'll need a pair of angled tweezers, metal nail file or any instrument with a smooth, yet knife-like edge. You want a utensil that will penetrate the dreadlock, but not rip it apart.
Shampoo your dreadlocks. Rinse thoroughly and towel dry. Doing this process on damp hair will minimize breakage.
Begin by snipping off a very small portion at the end of your dreadlocks. When I say small, I mean small. All you want to do is remove the rounded tip.
Take the tweezers. Using one of the prongs, insert the tweezer into a small section of the lock. Gently pull in a downward motion with the tweezers. If the prong does not work itself out easily, take the tweezer out, reinsert it and pull down again. After a bit of maneuvering, the hair should seperate.
If you began with braids, you will notices that the hair will begin to unravel like a braid normaly would. The same with two-strands. For those that started with palm-rolls, you will find that the hair will unravel just as easily as the dreadlock will always maintain it's internal structure.
This technique will not work of course if you manipulate/maintain your dreadlocks with methods other than palm-rolling/finger-twisting. Interlocking for example is similar to creating a series of knots and it will be very difficult, if not impossible, to undo these types of dreadlocks.
Continue unwinding the dreadlocks using the tweezers or like utensil until you are about .5-1 inch up the dreadlock. If you're doing the process correctly, you shoudn't see very much hair loss. The hair that does come out should be that which has naturally shed over years of dreadlocking so there is no need for alarm.
After you have freed the hairs, you'll notice all types of build-up/lint that has naturally or UNnaturally accumulated over time. Some dreadlocks will have more than others. Build-up in dreadlocks is natural to a degree but in the case of excessive debris, you may want to reexamine your maintenance routine.
It's up to you as to how far you want to go up the dreadlock. The lady I met began by loosening 1 inch of hair. Over the years, she continued the process and added to the loosened portion. She said that it'd look too awkward to have only an inch of unlocked hair and 30 inches of dreadlocks.
IMPORTANT: After you've completed your entire head, be sure to shampoo again. You'll need to wash away the lint, dirt and product residue.
A Word of *CAUTION*
If you're apprehensive about the technique, try it on one of your dreadlocks in a not-so-visible area. Undo 1/2 to 1 inch of the dreadlock. If you like what you see, keep going. If you don't, two-strand twist the end and let it relock. In some cases, the unlock'd hair may resist relocking so you may have to eventually snip off the end for uniformity.
Be sure to initiate the process slowly and methodically. Don't force the hairs apart...encourage them with a little pressure but too much will result in breakage.
OK, so I'm going to do just a few to begin with and see how it goes.
http://www.naani.com/how_do_you_remove_locks_.htm
The Technique
You'll need a pair of angled tweezers, metal nail file or any instrument with a smooth, yet knife-like edge. You want a utensil that will penetrate the dreadlock, but not rip it apart.
Shampoo your dreadlocks. Rinse thoroughly and towel dry. Doing this process on damp hair will minimize breakage.
Begin by snipping off a very small portion at the end of your dreadlocks. When I say small, I mean small. All you want to do is remove the rounded tip.
Take the tweezers. Using one of the prongs, insert the tweezer into a small section of the lock. Gently pull in a downward motion with the tweezers. If the prong does not work itself out easily, take the tweezer out, reinsert it and pull down again. After a bit of maneuvering, the hair should seperate.
If you began with braids, you will notices that the hair will begin to unravel like a braid normaly would. The same with two-strands. For those that started with palm-rolls, you will find that the hair will unravel just as easily as the dreadlock will always maintain it's internal structure.
This technique will not work of course if you manipulate/maintain your dreadlocks with methods other than palm-rolling/finger-twisting. Interlocking for example is similar to creating a series of knots and it will be very difficult, if not impossible, to undo these types of dreadlocks.
Continue unwinding the dreadlocks using the tweezers or like utensil until you are about .5-1 inch up the dreadlock. If you're doing the process correctly, you shoudn't see very much hair loss. The hair that does come out should be that which has naturally shed over years of dreadlocking so there is no need for alarm.
After you have freed the hairs, you'll notice all types of build-up/lint that has naturally or UNnaturally accumulated over time. Some dreadlocks will have more than others. Build-up in dreadlocks is natural to a degree but in the case of excessive debris, you may want to reexamine your maintenance routine.
It's up to you as to how far you want to go up the dreadlock. The lady I met began by loosening 1 inch of hair. Over the years, she continued the process and added to the loosened portion. She said that it'd look too awkward to have only an inch of unlocked hair and 30 inches of dreadlocks.
IMPORTANT: After you've completed your entire head, be sure to shampoo again. You'll need to wash away the lint, dirt and product residue.
A Word of *CAUTION*
If you're apprehensive about the technique, try it on one of your dreadlocks in a not-so-visible area. Undo 1/2 to 1 inch of the dreadlock. If you like what you see, keep going. If you don't, two-strand twist the end and let it relock. In some cases, the unlock'd hair may resist relocking so you may have to eventually snip off the end for uniformity.
Be sure to initiate the process slowly and methodically. Don't force the hairs apart...encourage them with a little pressure but too much will result in breakage.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
OK, so I'm going to do just a few to begin with and see how it goes.
Saturday, November 27, 2004
TEMPTING PRODUCTS....
THESE PRODUCTS ARE REALLY TEMPTING ME!!!
http://oyinhandmade.com/oyin/index.php?p=23
AND THESE NATURAL SOAPS:
http://www.cioccolatina.co.uk/SOAP.html
If anyone has tried any of them, please write in and let me know ASAP!
http://oyinhandmade.com/oyin/index.php?p=23
AND THESE NATURAL SOAPS:
http://www.cioccolatina.co.uk/SOAP.html
If anyone has tried any of them, please write in and let me know ASAP!
Friday, November 26, 2004
MORE PICS TO CHECK OUT!!!...
A few more pics of inspirational natural and loced hair:
NATURAL HAIR PHOTOS
LOC INSPIRATIONS
...be sure to check out pages 2 and 3 in each section...
NATURAL HAIR PHOTOS
LOC INSPIRATIONS
...be sure to check out pages 2 and 3 in each section...
Thursday, November 25, 2004
MISSING MY CURLY-Q'S....
TAKE A LOOK AT THESE GORGEOUS LOCS:
((click on the title of this entry to go to website)) and this:
http://www.naani.com/tubby_s_locks_3_years__5_months.htm
..Isn't she just gorgeous!!!
I have been following her journey since....oh so long ago!
And what she did was she undid the bottom of her locs so that there would be this beautiful curly end look...
To think, I had waited so patiently at the beginning to have finished rounded ends...and now I'm seriously contemplating undoing the ends, like half an inch of it and letting it turning into little ringlets or waves, like it used to...
I'm going to give it a try to just one loc to start with and see if I like it for a while...
((click on the title of this entry to go to website)) and this:
http://www.naani.com/tubby_s_locks_3_years__5_months.htm
..Isn't she just gorgeous!!!
I have been following her journey since....oh so long ago!
And what she did was she undid the bottom of her locs so that there would be this beautiful curly end look...
To think, I had waited so patiently at the beginning to have finished rounded ends...and now I'm seriously contemplating undoing the ends, like half an inch of it and letting it turning into little ringlets or waves, like it used to...
I'm going to give it a try to just one loc to start with and see if I like it for a while...
NOT MUCH TO REPORT...
Things have gone into a Winter mode routine...Not much else is happening.
I did stop taking MSM for a while and started it up about 3 weeks ago ~~and YES, it does make a huge difference to my new growth. So I'm going to try to keep going with the intake.
My roots are mad lol! I like the feel of loose natural hair, that crinkle wave effect as I run my fingers through my scalp...Do you remeber those crimping irons (did I spell that right?!?)... its exactly the same texture.
A bit of both worlds now.
I did stop taking MSM for a while and started it up about 3 weeks ago ~~and YES, it does make a huge difference to my new growth. So I'm going to try to keep going with the intake.
My roots are mad lol! I like the feel of loose natural hair, that crinkle wave effect as I run my fingers through my scalp...Do you remeber those crimping irons (did I spell that right?!?)... its exactly the same texture.
A bit of both worlds now.
Friday, November 05, 2004
I CAN'T SEE ANY BEAUTY IN IT....
I know this might sound very negative --but these are just MY thoughts... I'm entitled to that.
The more I see relaxed and straight wigs, I feel really annoyed.
I really hate them! I just think to my Self, why would anyone want to do that to their Self?
Then I remember, I too used to think that having straight hair was a dream come true... And the false ideas that I could get style my hair better if it was straight --it would be easier. Then my hair just 'died' on me with the chemicals. And it did more harm than good.
One extreme to another now?
Everyone has the right to do what they want to their Self, the only thing that really gets to me is picking up a 'black hair' mag that is meant to be for natural hair and finding that they are all styled on wigs with a curl!
I admit, things are changing, I see many naturals in London...
But there is still a LONG way to go on this trip.....
The more I see relaxed and straight wigs, I feel really annoyed.
I really hate them! I just think to my Self, why would anyone want to do that to their Self?
Then I remember, I too used to think that having straight hair was a dream come true... And the false ideas that I could get style my hair better if it was straight --it would be easier. Then my hair just 'died' on me with the chemicals. And it did more harm than good.
One extreme to another now?
Everyone has the right to do what they want to their Self, the only thing that really gets to me is picking up a 'black hair' mag that is meant to be for natural hair and finding that they are all styled on wigs with a curl!
I admit, things are changing, I see many naturals in London...
But there is still a LONG way to go on this trip.....
Monday, November 01, 2004
YEAR 3 AND 3 MONTHS...
Another month gone....
And then before I know it, I'll be on to year 4 and beyond...
The cold is starting to really get my locs feeling brittle.
I haven't really started covering them up yet --but I will now.
And then before I know it, I'll be on to year 4 and beyond...
The cold is starting to really get my locs feeling brittle.
I haven't really started covering them up yet --but I will now.
Tuesday, October 26, 2004
SHE'S PROMOTING HAIR PRODUCTS...
OK, so Beyonce is promoting hair products.... in a straight long wig?!? Does that make any sense?
Now, I have nothing against her personally...but you see where this is going right?!?
Its not right.
Now, I have nothing against her personally...but you see where this is going right?!?
Its not right.
I'M A NAANI.COM MODEL... NEWS TO ME!...
So, I made it into naani.com's gallery...
Thats great!
http://naani.com/alma_s_dreadlocks.htm
http://naani.com/alma_s_dreadlocks440.htm
Enjoy!
Thats great!
http://naani.com/alma_s_dreadlocks.htm
http://naani.com/alma_s_dreadlocks440.htm
Enjoy!
Monday, October 25, 2004
LOCS ON THE JOB....
Don't let people fool you into thinking that just because you have locs, you can't look presentable and that it will affect your job interviews...
Believe me, I have been to so many in the last months and from what I've seen, keep it neat and do your work right --and things will pay off. People love confidence, good presentation and the ability to sell your Self well...
For those who want to say that there locs made them fail, then I see that as an excuse.
Its a good feeling to walk in, look smart and still be my Self.
Believe me, I have been to so many in the last months and from what I've seen, keep it neat and do your work right --and things will pay off. People love confidence, good presentation and the ability to sell your Self well...
For those who want to say that there locs made them fail, then I see that as an excuse.
Its a good feeling to walk in, look smart and still be my Self.
Sunday, October 24, 2004
THE SMOOTHER LOCS ARE...
I notice that the locs that have the most bumps on them are the ones I kept tampering with as they were slowly locing...
All my top locs are bumpy, whereas my bottom locs aren't -- And I always used to mess around with the top ones while the bottom ones were left to do their thing...
So I'm glad I'm not touching or manipulating new growth to my locs, Maybe they'll smooth out now...
And if they don't --who cares! I love them anyways.
All my top locs are bumpy, whereas my bottom locs aren't -- And I always used to mess around with the top ones while the bottom ones were left to do their thing...
So I'm glad I'm not touching or manipulating new growth to my locs, Maybe they'll smooth out now...
And if they don't --who cares! I love them anyways.
Friday, October 15, 2004
LONDON LOC HEADS... I SEE YOU!
Now that I spend most of my time travelling around central London, I am so amazed to see how many loc heads are out there... from all races and walks of life.
I sometimes find my Self being stared at, or the occasional smile from another loc head passing by...
Just yesterday, I was hard at work doing my promotion work when this girl from another company, doing promotion too, was taking every opportunity to just stare at me... And she had the biggest thickest shoulder length locs I had ever seen... They were literally exploding out under the hat she wore and curtained her face, very beautiful!
"Let these plants be peace" ... those words come back into my mind.
Its a good feeling to see others out there... from all races feeling the vibe.
And yes... I am obsessed with hair lol!
I can't help it! I have a case of serious loc love.
I sometimes find my Self being stared at, or the occasional smile from another loc head passing by...
Just yesterday, I was hard at work doing my promotion work when this girl from another company, doing promotion too, was taking every opportunity to just stare at me... And she had the biggest thickest shoulder length locs I had ever seen... They were literally exploding out under the hat she wore and curtained her face, very beautiful!
"Let these plants be peace" ... those words come back into my mind.
Its a good feeling to see others out there... from all races feeling the vibe.
And yes... I am obsessed with hair lol!
I can't help it! I have a case of serious loc love.
Saturday, October 02, 2004
NO TO DIRT
At the bus stop, and I saw this man with long long locs, completely coated with something hard (I'm thinking wax) and it wasn't a pretty sight! The wax was covered in dirt. Now he wasn't a bum or anything like that, he was a clean cut guy who looked like he was on his way to work or something...
And people were subtly looking from his locs to mine, probably wondering if mine were dirty too!
Now this is what I have an issue with...I can accept any type of locs -but DIRT?!?
Sorry, I can't take the false assumptions that dirt will loc hair up, or wax.
After a topic I read, I realised just how careful we should be with what we use on our locs... I don't regret experimenting, but some of the products did leave my locs at the bottom with build-up which took time to remove.
And in the long run, I notice that the more simple the routine, the better the loc health.
Dirt is not an option.
And people were subtly looking from his locs to mine, probably wondering if mine were dirty too!
Now this is what I have an issue with...I can accept any type of locs -but DIRT?!?
Sorry, I can't take the false assumptions that dirt will loc hair up, or wax.
After a topic I read, I realised just how careful we should be with what we use on our locs... I don't regret experimenting, but some of the products did leave my locs at the bottom with build-up which took time to remove.
And in the long run, I notice that the more simple the routine, the better the loc health.
Dirt is not an option.
Friday, October 01, 2004
PICS OF LOCS - AN INSPIRATION TO THICK LOCS
When my locs get longer, I want them looking like this:
Many times, I have asked my Self if I want to cut my locs in half and get thinner locs...then I look at these pics and know that I still want my thick locs.
I'm in that funny stage where its not short, but its not long.
So I'm just hoping to get on the long side very soon.
I have seen many friends with locs of 10 years + and all have told me that if you want healthy locs when they are long and aged, be sure to keep 'em thick. Most of them have slowly joined their locs over the years so the locs have gone thicker, then cut the thin ends when they were ripping off.
Many times, I have asked my Self if I want to cut my locs in half and get thinner locs...then I look at these pics and know that I still want my thick locs.
I'm in that funny stage where its not short, but its not long.
So I'm just hoping to get on the long side very soon.
I have seen many friends with locs of 10 years + and all have told me that if you want healthy locs when they are long and aged, be sure to keep 'em thick. Most of them have slowly joined their locs over the years so the locs have gone thicker, then cut the thin ends when they were ripping off.
HAVING FUN WITH HATS AGAIN...
OCT. 1ST - 3 YEARS AND 2 MONTHS!
Got all my hats out again, the cold weather is back so I'm looking out for more ways to jazz up these locs. OK, so I hate styling it, so the next best thing is getting a nice hat or headwrap on.
I can just tell this Winter is gonna be a killer!
Got all my hats out again, the cold weather is back so I'm looking out for more ways to jazz up these locs. OK, so I hate styling it, so the next best thing is getting a nice hat or headwrap on.
I can just tell this Winter is gonna be a killer!
Tuesday, September 28, 2004
FREEFORMING AND ASSUMPTIONS
FREEFORMING....
why do people assume it looks 'untidy', 'too fat', 'not acceptable', 'ugly' and 'not the way to go'.
Freeforming is not any of those things...
Its volume, Its trust in knowing your locs will grow ni their own time. It is about being free.
I have seen so many gorgeous locs out there...all freeform, all full of volume, healthy and thick...
Freeforming is not negative.
why do people assume it looks 'untidy', 'too fat', 'not acceptable', 'ugly' and 'not the way to go'.
Freeforming is not any of those things...
Its volume, Its trust in knowing your locs will grow ni their own time. It is about being free.
I have seen so many gorgeous locs out there...all freeform, all full of volume, healthy and thick...
Freeforming is not negative.
NOT AGAIN - I COULDN'T!
OK, I'm getting even more weird urges to shave my head and have a short hair look....
I see it everywhere, in the underground, the shops, the people around me...
Or am I just rooting out for them now lol?!?
Either way, I love the look. It really brings out the feminine features in everyone.
But if I had to go through the locing again....
I stop my thoughts. NO way.
I couldn't do it all over again.
I see it everywhere, in the underground, the shops, the people around me...
Or am I just rooting out for them now lol?!?
Either way, I love the look. It really brings out the feminine features in everyone.
But if I had to go through the locing again....
I stop my thoughts. NO way.
I couldn't do it all over again.
Sunday, September 26, 2004
JUST ADD THIS TO YOUR PRODUCTS...
Simple solutions to making any commercial product work well with your hair...
A few things you can add to any product for more:
~essential oils of your choice
~honey
~extra virgin olive oil
~Any other oil you like
~Milk
~Beaten eggs
Most of them work well mixed in with conditioners... then washed out, but its for you to try!
A personal favourite of mine: honet and extra virgin olive oil...
I add it to almost everything!
A few things you can add to any product for more:
~essential oils of your choice
~honey
~extra virgin olive oil
~Any other oil you like
~Milk
~Beaten eggs
Most of them work well mixed in with conditioners... then washed out, but its for you to try!
A personal favourite of mine: honet and extra virgin olive oil...
I add it to almost everything!
Monday, September 20, 2004
MY NEW CONDITIONER...
EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL....
Cheap, easy to use, doesn't leave my locs feeling oily after the last and final rinse, takes on the smell of my shampoo (black soap) and leaves my locs SO soft for days....
Pure accident, but glad to have tried this out! It actually works better than any commercial conditioner that I've used in the past...
OK, so I did say that I was not going to use oils... but this method seems to work out just fine.
Cheap, easy to use, doesn't leave my locs feeling oily after the last and final rinse, takes on the smell of my shampoo (black soap) and leaves my locs SO soft for days....
Pure accident, but glad to have tried this out! It actually works better than any commercial conditioner that I've used in the past...
OK, so I did say that I was not going to use oils... but this method seems to work out just fine.
Wednesday, September 15, 2004
OK -YES, I ADMIT... I AM OBSESSED WITH HIM!
...AND CAN YOU BLAME ME?!?
I am unlucky - This guy comes into London Jazz cafe and I'm always the last to hear about it! Just last week, and I know now!!!
Oh well, there's always the next 2 years to wait again. AH!
Monday, September 13, 2004
A LITTLE BRUSHING GOES A LONG WAY...
What would I do if I didn't have my brush?!?
Anytime, at any point... If my locs are dry... a little water and a 3 minute brush does the trick! Thats it.
This Summer has been all about letting my locs out and free... no headwraps! And I've had more compliments from strangers than ever before!
Definately the longest time I've gone for without wearing a wrap -and I love it! I can't handle having my locs over my face -I did all that hiding behind the hair thing when I had extension braids so I keep them well out of eyes and face.
I'm not one to style -so a loose ponytail usually does the trick.
Anytime, at any point... If my locs are dry... a little water and a 3 minute brush does the trick! Thats it.
This Summer has been all about letting my locs out and free... no headwraps! And I've had more compliments from strangers than ever before!
Definately the longest time I've gone for without wearing a wrap -and I love it! I can't handle having my locs over my face -I did all that hiding behind the hair thing when I had extension braids so I keep them well out of eyes and face.
I'm not one to style -so a loose ponytail usually does the trick.
MORE HOME MADE RECIPES
I put together a few yummy and cheap home made recipes that I found on http://www.care2.com ...
Loving it!
http://groups.msn.com/HOLISTICLOCING/recipeposts.msnw
Don't forget to click on the next button for more recipes on the next page!
Loving it!
http://groups.msn.com/HOLISTICLOCING/recipeposts.msnw
Don't forget to click on the next button for more recipes on the next page!
Monday, September 06, 2004
"SHE'S GONE ON THE BLACK SIDE NOW..."
...still hearing this statement. As a biracial person with locs, I feel many associate my locing journey with a militant Black image...
During the 3 yeas of locing, I have been fortunate enough to meet a few men/women of biracial origin who have experienced the exact same thing as me... Non-Black family members and their false assumptions, the surprised looks when I tell someone I have European family and the usual questions on a testing level....
Being natural seems OK, but as soon as we loc up...people assume that we no longer want to associate with the non-Black side of things...
Let me clear up a few things...
~I am a Roots girl ( both Spiritually and cultural) ...how can I be so without accepting my own?
~How is growing locs a Black only thing when I see many non-Black people with locs too?
~Why is my locs a threat to my heritage at all?
I am equally proud of both sides- yet they do not define me... I am just 'me' -but society will want me to tick a box as an 'ethnic minority' ...
I embrace both of my cultural backgrounds with open arms -whetehr they choose to do the same to me is another story.
For me, locing is a Spiritual realm ... not a Black declaration.
During the 3 yeas of locing, I have been fortunate enough to meet a few men/women of biracial origin who have experienced the exact same thing as me... Non-Black family members and their false assumptions, the surprised looks when I tell someone I have European family and the usual questions on a testing level....
Being natural seems OK, but as soon as we loc up...people assume that we no longer want to associate with the non-Black side of things...
Let me clear up a few things...
~I am a Roots girl ( both Spiritually and cultural) ...how can I be so without accepting my own?
~How is growing locs a Black only thing when I see many non-Black people with locs too?
~Why is my locs a threat to my heritage at all?
I am equally proud of both sides- yet they do not define me... I am just 'me' -but society will want me to tick a box as an 'ethnic minority' ...
I embrace both of my cultural backgrounds with open arms -whetehr they choose to do the same to me is another story.
For me, locing is a Spiritual realm ... not a Black declaration.
Saturday, September 04, 2004
NO PRODUCTS CHALLENGE
Sept. 1st 2004:
3 YEARS AND 1 MONTH LOCING
Simple is best -but how simple can I go with routine?
For the rest of this month, I'll just use my black soap and conditioner to wash -nothing else, only a pure water spritz if I need some moisture or to brush locs with...
I'll get back to you on the results... hopefully, my locs won't be too dry!
Thursday, August 26, 2004
JUST WHEN I THOUGHT I WAS MATURE...
I'm brushing my locs and spotting all these empty pockets in my locs, never nooticed that before!
So I guess they might just be permanent -or maybe they're just buds half way down my locs...
OK, so I'm still maturing yet...
So I guess they might just be permanent -or maybe they're just buds half way down my locs...
OK, so I'm still maturing yet...
CONFESSION TIME ~ITS NORMAL RIGHT?!?
Even though I LOVE my locs and accept them for all they are...
~I still get those urges to shave them all off and try out a teeny weeny afro in a bright colour. Or I'll see a huge Afro and think -What if?
~I do get loc envy when I see thinner locs that can be shaped into more styles than mine, for now. My thick locs laugh off all my attempts to do a french braid or twists.
~I miss loose hair and how my fuzzies used to curl up when wet.
Yes, its natural to get those feelings -But then I remember why I loced up in the first place...
The no hassle of just waking up and not bothering to style it at all.
The way it grows and thickens with time.
The process that I went throguh in inner transforming my Self.
The never ending project that is my locs -And what they will grow into in the future.
Thats all I need to know.
~I still get those urges to shave them all off and try out a teeny weeny afro in a bright colour. Or I'll see a huge Afro and think -What if?
~I do get loc envy when I see thinner locs that can be shaped into more styles than mine, for now. My thick locs laugh off all my attempts to do a french braid or twists.
~I miss loose hair and how my fuzzies used to curl up when wet.
Yes, its natural to get those feelings -But then I remember why I loced up in the first place...
The no hassle of just waking up and not bothering to style it at all.
The way it grows and thickens with time.
The process that I went throguh in inner transforming my Self.
The never ending project that is my locs -And what they will grow into in the future.
Thats all I need to know.
Wednesday, August 25, 2004
THE CASE OF H.I.L HABIT...
H.I.L ===> HAND IN LOCS
Its become a BAD ahbit, and its even getting in the way as I work my fingers through my unloced roots and untangle them...
I've got atleast 2 inches of unloced hair at the base of each loc... I'm wonderring if that goes away after a while or if it is because my H.I.L ....
Gotta stop.
Sunday, August 22, 2004
STILL THE DUMB QUESTIONS...
I think it has FINALLY hit on my family that my locs are permanent -yes, even after all this time, they had a small hope that I would turn around and say 'Its gone!'...
Now why can't people just be accepting in life? Really....its not their hair, I'm not asking them to loc up, just to keep their mouths shut when they feel the urge to come out with bad comments... And they should know me better, I'm not a stranger. So why judge things on a physical basis?
I guess its probably because its not all been physical -I have changed, I have grown just that little stronger to know that I don't need anyone's acceptance and beauty is truly a personal thing...
When it comes down to it, I love my family, but they KNOW that they need to accept me -all of it.... The good and the bad in their eyes.
The rest is a choice they need to make. I've made mine.
Now why can't people just be accepting in life? Really....its not their hair, I'm not asking them to loc up, just to keep their mouths shut when they feel the urge to come out with bad comments... And they should know me better, I'm not a stranger. So why judge things on a physical basis?
I guess its probably because its not all been physical -I have changed, I have grown just that little stronger to know that I don't need anyone's acceptance and beauty is truly a personal thing...
When it comes down to it, I love my family, but they KNOW that they need to accept me -all of it.... The good and the bad in their eyes.
The rest is a choice they need to make. I've made mine.
Saturday, August 21, 2004
I NEVER REALLY NOTICED UNTIL NOW....
Its true to say one thing -I never really noticed how fast my hair grows until now -or how quick the stages go by... until now.
I was looking through old photos, the change is amazing! I miss all the days of fuzziness -simply because I wish I had enjoyed the experience of having the mad loc stages...
I miss how my locs used to stand up on end and have so much volume...
I miss those curly ends...
I miss having my braids fuzz up...
My locs have come a long way -my only advice to anyone who is a newbie locer -enjoy all the stages! They pass so quickly, like life itself... Its not worth worrying about.
The 3 year mark is not only a symbol of my loc stages -it is a symbol of my comittment to the whole Spiritual lifestyle, in so many ways.... the changing of my thoughts, the actions and the way things have moved forward in the last 3 years... so fast!
I was looking through old photos, the change is amazing! I miss all the days of fuzziness -simply because I wish I had enjoyed the experience of having the mad loc stages...
I miss how my locs used to stand up on end and have so much volume...
I miss those curly ends...
I miss having my braids fuzz up...
My locs have come a long way -my only advice to anyone who is a newbie locer -enjoy all the stages! They pass so quickly, like life itself... Its not worth worrying about.
The 3 year mark is not only a symbol of my loc stages -it is a symbol of my comittment to the whole Spiritual lifestyle, in so many ways.... the changing of my thoughts, the actions and the way things have moved forward in the last 3 years... so fast!
STILL ON THE STUFF... MSM TABS AND OTHERS...
Still on my daily intake of MSM -I take about 3 tabs a day. I've been taking it since last Summer and I love the results!
Higher Nature MSM 1000mg 90 tablets
http://www.goodnessdirect.co.uk/cgi-local/detail/868276.html
Vegetarian organic sulphur supplement
Recommended Dosage
Take 1-3 tablets daily with meals,beginning with 1 tablet and building gradually, or as your health professional advises. Drink extra water for the first few weeks. A daily multi-vitamin is also recommended.
Ingredients
Methyl sulphonyl methane pulv.,Sea Calcium™, microcrystalline cellulose, silica, magnesium stearate (veg source), hydroxypropyl methylcellulose coating.
Nutritional Information
Each tablet typically provides Methyl sulphonyl methane (MSM) 1000mg.
Other Information
MSM is a natural source of organic sulphur produced in the upper atmosphere. It is the primary source of organic sulphur used by living organisms. The protein in connective tissue that is so important in body structure, relies on sulphur, which is also important in many enzymes and other body materials.
http://www.goodnessdirect.co.uk/cgi-local/detail/868276.html
Vegetarian organic sulphur supplement
Recommended Dosage
Take 1-3 tablets daily with meals,beginning with 1 tablet and building gradually, or as your health professional advises. Drink extra water for the first few weeks. A daily multi-vitamin is also recommended.
Ingredients
Methyl sulphonyl methane pulv.,Sea Calcium™, microcrystalline cellulose, silica, magnesium stearate (veg source), hydroxypropyl methylcellulose coating.
Nutritional Information
Each tablet typically provides Methyl sulphonyl methane (MSM) 1000mg.
Other Information
MSM is a natural source of organic sulphur produced in the upper atmosphere. It is the primary source of organic sulphur used by living organisms. The protein in connective tissue that is so important in body structure, relies on sulphur, which is also important in many enzymes and other body materials.
____________________________
Its more to do with my general health -I love that my nails and hair seem to be showing signs of healthy changes, along with healthy eating and a little exercise. There is no magic pill that will promote hair growth, but I do feel that a healthy body goes a LONG way...
I aslo take 2 garlic tabs, and 2 cod liver oil tabs during the day -complete with a multi vitamin.
I know, it may sound a lot but its just been a habit so far!
I hardly ever eat 2 real meals a day, but I make sure that I eat a good breakfast. I try my best to eat a healthy meal afterwards, either at night or during the lunch hour. I'm making excuses, but I'm always on the run for food... so I keep my food simple and healthy. Yet, I still feel I lack the extra nutrients my body needs. Thats where my tabs act as a back-up... Just incase.
In an ideal world, I would only be eating the food to get these nutrients but extra never seems to hurt. I'm working on it.
Thursday, August 19, 2004
NOT MUCH CHANGE NOW...
From wetr locs to dry locs...
My locs used to look completely different when wet -very bumpy and thick... then as it dried over the hour it would slowly get thinner and the bumps will smooth out...
Its been 2 months since I have seen change to this -my locs are starting to look very much the same, no matter what... I'm taking this as a sign that it is slowly maturing. It gives me the freedom to know that when I wash my locs in the morning, my locs remain as is through the day...
I'll always have bumpy locs -thats not the issue. Itsd just nice to know that the journey is still working in subtle ways.
Loc on...
My locs used to look completely different when wet -very bumpy and thick... then as it dried over the hour it would slowly get thinner and the bumps will smooth out...
Its been 2 months since I have seen change to this -my locs are starting to look very much the same, no matter what... I'm taking this as a sign that it is slowly maturing. It gives me the freedom to know that when I wash my locs in the morning, my locs remain as is through the day...
I'll always have bumpy locs -thats not the issue. Itsd just nice to know that the journey is still working in subtle ways.
Loc on...
Monday, August 16, 2004
A TRIP IN EUROPE
My travels through Holland and Spain -reminds me how amazing it is to travel around and see the world again.
My loc responses weren't too bad -I remember in the days when I would only see a Black face every other month or so -people would literally stare at me as I walked through Madrid. And they weren't very subtle with their language, thinking I couldn't understand what they were talking about... bad memories of old days.
Seems like times have changed, I was nervous to come 'home' and see family that have been out of life for years -I feel more at home in my 'home' town Madrid than ever before. Its nice to see that people are more accepting of me. I think its more curiousity than anything else.
Amsterdam was a pleasure as always, a few days of looking around, meeting new people and experiencing the culture. I love that city. Definately my 'loc capital of Europe' award! So many loc heads walking the streets. I wouldn't mind spending more time here in future.
My loc responses weren't too bad -I remember in the days when I would only see a Black face every other month or so -people would literally stare at me as I walked through Madrid. And they weren't very subtle with their language, thinking I couldn't understand what they were talking about... bad memories of old days.
Seems like times have changed, I was nervous to come 'home' and see family that have been out of life for years -I feel more at home in my 'home' town Madrid than ever before. Its nice to see that people are more accepting of me. I think its more curiousity than anything else.
Amsterdam was a pleasure as always, a few days of looking around, meeting new people and experiencing the culture. I love that city. Definately my 'loc capital of Europe' award! So many loc heads walking the streets. I wouldn't mind spending more time here in future.
IT TAKES ALL FORMS...
Its refreshing to see natural hair everywhere I go now... I'm not even 'trying' to spot them, they just show up in their Big afros and bushy locs... I love it! And it seems every culture and race has caught on.
I have always loved locs on everyone -no matter what their race is. Recently on a trip to Amsterdam, there were so many white people with locs who smiled back it was unbelievable! Locs come in all forms, and I love them!
People have asked why my website is geared towards afro hair -the simple answer is that I can only work with what I know about my experiences -being that I have afro hair, I talk through that experience. But in reality, locs of any texture comes down to simple loc routines. Afro hair is beautiful -but knowing that everyone can appreciate an experience , no matter what race, is a great thought!
Locs are truly peace.
I have always loved locs on everyone -no matter what their race is. Recently on a trip to Amsterdam, there were so many white people with locs who smiled back it was unbelievable! Locs come in all forms, and I love them!
People have asked why my website is geared towards afro hair -the simple answer is that I can only work with what I know about my experiences -being that I have afro hair, I talk through that experience. But in reality, locs of any texture comes down to simple loc routines. Afro hair is beautiful -but knowing that everyone can appreciate an experience , no matter what race, is a great thought!
Locs are truly peace.
SUMMER GROWTH....crazy
Is it me or does hair really grow faster during the Summer months?!?
**touches roots to check...
I have atleast 1 inch of unloced hair at the base of each loc and since Summer began I almost know that my roots have grown 3 inches or so... madness.
**touches roots to check...
I have atleast 1 inch of unloced hair at the base of each loc and since Summer began I almost know that my roots have grown 3 inches or so... madness.
**ATTENTION! The loc vibe....
...Summer is here -well kind of... UK weather has a bad habit of liftinng our hopes up high and then killing it with sharp down pours of bucket loads. Thats ok, I always come prepared.
This is the first Summer that I have really been so free with my locs, letting them out. To be honest, half of the reason is that it is WAY TOO hot to be wearing headwraps. I always seem to find head wraps comforting, like a protection barrier from the outside world -where my crown picks up nasty vibes and pollution. So removing it was a big step, it felt very...weird and vulnerable to be letting my locs out loose in the air.
Then I catch people on the bus staring at them like.... not sure what like. I get the strong urge to ask them what their thoughts are -yet I don't care , just curious I guess. I've gone past caring what people think of me or what I look like, what I do or what I say.... its not worth the hassle. So much time was wasted in the past with my anxious thoughts of what others might feel about things -now I just take a deep breath and get on with life.
I must say, I do enjoy the respect many people have given me -I'm not a Rasta woman, nor do I ever pretend to be -but if I am greeted, I'll be sure to give them the nod back and smile. Its a nice connection. And if they ask -I say I'm just a spiritual woman. No harm in that, no bad reactions either.
I do feel that some people feel automatically more 'radical' around me, and relax with others -but maybe thats just because they don't know me. And people tend to approach me on the streets very often now for culture events and workshops -I'm not complaining. It has been a great chance to meet many new people. I feel it has more to do with my inner confidence now than anything physical.
My old friends still treat me the same -yet inner change is a process they got used to seeing in me as I gradually showed more of my love for more spiritual and natural living in recent months... every day is about growth. And people need to accept that we can't always remain the same -we all change, its just nice to have old friends who really see the changes with time!
I'm getting strong urges to colour only a few of my locs -I did a few colour sessions before and one left me with a huge orange blob on the top of my head that I didn't like, so I re-dyed it back to dark brown. The sun just plays with colours now, like a henna do... I like.
Let these plants of mine be peace.
This is the first Summer that I have really been so free with my locs, letting them out. To be honest, half of the reason is that it is WAY TOO hot to be wearing headwraps. I always seem to find head wraps comforting, like a protection barrier from the outside world -where my crown picks up nasty vibes and pollution. So removing it was a big step, it felt very...weird and vulnerable to be letting my locs out loose in the air.
Then I catch people on the bus staring at them like.... not sure what like. I get the strong urge to ask them what their thoughts are -yet I don't care , just curious I guess. I've gone past caring what people think of me or what I look like, what I do or what I say.... its not worth the hassle. So much time was wasted in the past with my anxious thoughts of what others might feel about things -now I just take a deep breath and get on with life.
I must say, I do enjoy the respect many people have given me -I'm not a Rasta woman, nor do I ever pretend to be -but if I am greeted, I'll be sure to give them the nod back and smile. Its a nice connection. And if they ask -I say I'm just a spiritual woman. No harm in that, no bad reactions either.
I do feel that some people feel automatically more 'radical' around me, and relax with others -but maybe thats just because they don't know me. And people tend to approach me on the streets very often now for culture events and workshops -I'm not complaining. It has been a great chance to meet many new people. I feel it has more to do with my inner confidence now than anything physical.
My old friends still treat me the same -yet inner change is a process they got used to seeing in me as I gradually showed more of my love for more spiritual and natural living in recent months... every day is about growth. And people need to accept that we can't always remain the same -we all change, its just nice to have old friends who really see the changes with time!
I'm getting strong urges to colour only a few of my locs -I did a few colour sessions before and one left me with a huge orange blob on the top of my head that I didn't like, so I re-dyed it back to dark brown. The sun just plays with colours now, like a henna do... I like.
Let these plants of mine be peace.
STILL EXPERIMENTING
I know I said I would be keeping things very simple... but the new found freedom of mixing ingredients at home has been a whole new way of experimenting -I like that I can actually take control of what i put on my locs ... not just take chances...
Every ingredient has its own unique effect on my locs -combining all the good results of each ingredient with others to boost and I'm left with a whole heap of bottles and potions. Even my fridge has a section just for fresh ingredient spritzs and creams... drives everyone mad lol!
I give each experiment 2 weeks before I decide if it works or not -some products seemed bad for my locs through the first few days and suddenly turned good results after a week or so -so you just never know! I love it!
...Off to make a new batch of stuff...
Every ingredient has its own unique effect on my locs -combining all the good results of each ingredient with others to boost and I'm left with a whole heap of bottles and potions. Even my fridge has a section just for fresh ingredient spritzs and creams... drives everyone mad lol!
I give each experiment 2 weeks before I decide if it works or not -some products seemed bad for my locs through the first few days and suddenly turned good results after a week or so -so you just never know! I love it!
...Off to make a new batch of stuff...
YEAR 3 mark...
This is where I'll be posting up more loc thoughts...
I still can't believe that it has already been 3 years of locing. My choice to start using homemade products and natural soaps to wash my locs have really left my hair at its softest -ever! Even when I had loose naps, it wasn't this soft!
I can't help but wonder how amazing time has been over the last 3 years -the explosion of natural hair information has been a seriosu revolution. To think that in this day and age, we still feel the need to 'be' something we are not is so crazy!
A growth experience is really all about internal change -the locs have been just a direct reflection of my changes through the 3 years of locing.
And now that I have taken this conscious step to take change into another level -it can only really get better!
Over the last year, my locs have seen a huge growth spurt -I've probbably said all this in previous posts on my locs, but now that my shrinkage has completely stopped, the length is coming directly from the roots.
As my hair is loosely curled, I'm SO glad that I joined my locs together... I need that strong base at the roots to hold the weight of my locs, which are starting to get heavy. The bottom part is especially dense and hard -the oldest part of my loc.
I can't wait to have my locs flowing down my back -2 years.....
Time flies.
I still can't believe that it has already been 3 years of locing. My choice to start using homemade products and natural soaps to wash my locs have really left my hair at its softest -ever! Even when I had loose naps, it wasn't this soft!
I can't help but wonder how amazing time has been over the last 3 years -the explosion of natural hair information has been a seriosu revolution. To think that in this day and age, we still feel the need to 'be' something we are not is so crazy!
A growth experience is really all about internal change -the locs have been just a direct reflection of my changes through the 3 years of locing.
And now that I have taken this conscious step to take change into another level -it can only really get better!
Over the last year, my locs have seen a huge growth spurt -I've probbably said all this in previous posts on my locs, but now that my shrinkage has completely stopped, the length is coming directly from the roots.
As my hair is loosely curled, I'm SO glad that I joined my locs together... I need that strong base at the roots to hold the weight of my locs, which are starting to get heavy. The bottom part is especially dense and hard -the oldest part of my loc.
I can't wait to have my locs flowing down my back -2 years.....
Time flies.
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