5-Minute Hair Style for the Lazy or Busy Naturalisa!

My hair has been put away and protected for MONTHS, so I've been enjoying an array of headwraps, and CovaGirls™ (if you're new here, that's what I call my wigs) while I decide that I want to do next.  I always enjoyed the exotical (yes, I know that's probably not a word, but I love it) way braids and twists made me feel, so I featured those looks all of last spring, summer, and fall.  

This winter, I stumbled upon a Sista-owned brand, Darcel's Tresses, that hand-makes various styles of  CovaGirls™ , and of course I picked up a braided one.

You know I'm always going to hook you up with the quick & simple, fun & versatile!  Check out my first impressions (video) on my latest CovaGirl™, that I picked up from 

Darcel's Tresses!

Thanks for reading and watching!

RallyGirl♥

P.S.
Below I included some braid sheen spray options, and a scalp oil that may come in handy during protective styling.

EASY D.I.Y. Shea Butter Whip Recipe

Happy New Year!

During the colder months, shea butter is my go to.  It's great for skin, but really keeps my natural hair moist and super conditioned, especially when it's in protective styles.

I have several whip recipes depending on what oils I have on hand, but I'm always sure to keep my staple unrefined shea butter in stock.  To help you get your new year started on the right track, I offer you one of my super easy potions:   

As always, experiment to find out what works best for your hair, and enjoy the journey!

Mo' Hair,

RallyGirl ♥

Grow Natural Hair, Retain Length: 8 EASY Tips to Jump-Start Optimum Hair Growth

Over the years I've had many Naturalista's and transitioners ask how long it took me to grow out my natural hair.  The answer is a long one, but I'll try to keep it brief.

Let go of those raggedy ends

I transitioned for 6 to 8 months, and went back to natural in May of 2003; I big chopped 6" of dead, relaxed strands.  By grace, my hair did some growing, and I retained some length, but it wasn't all that, and certainly was no thanks to me.  Theoretically, for someone who big chopped 13 years ago, I should be able to sit on my hair, post shrinkage.  Okay, I might be exaggerating a bit, but you get the drift.  It wasn't until 2012 that I figured out the formula to retaining my length, and seriously began to cultivate my tresses.

Scalps love to be Clean - Hair loves to be Hydrated

Styling tools encourages hair breakage

After several years of guessing, hoping, and sprinkling fairy dust over my head, I finally stopped.  I did a little research, did some experimenting, waited...then BAM; I discovered the basic blueprint that has gotten my hair to where it is today.

RELATED:  Going Natural 101 - Quick Tips for Beginners, Transitioners, and the Frustrated.

Natural Oils

Hair grows an average of 1/4th to 2" per month; not everyone's hair grows at the same rate, so just rock YOUR way, and your results will come through.  Below is what I like to call a guideline of core practises to jump-start your hair to maximum health, and optimum length retention.  This method will yield results for most any curl, kink, and coil pattern (looser textures as well).  As always, add and modify as your hair sees fit.  Do your research, experiment, tweak, be patient, but have fun!  

Twisted Bun

• Clip ends, being sure they are free of all splits and damage
• Keep a clean scalp
• Cleanse hair with a moisturizing conditioner (sulfate & silicone free are best, but do your best).  Avoid oil-stripping shampoos & lathers. 
• Finger detangle as much as possible (easiest on stretched hair).  Limit the use of styling tools as often as possible.
• Seal in moisture, being sure to focus on those ends (the oldest part of your hair)
• Wear protective hairstyles
• Sleep on silk or satin (bonnet, pillow case, scarf, etc.)
• Drink lots of water

RELATED:  Grown Natural Hair, Retain Length:  3 Easy Ways to Quick Trim (Dust) Your Ends.

RELATED:  The "Cold Witch" - An Easy D.I.Y. Scalp-Cleaning Solution.

Choose  your satins or silks

RELATED:  Satins & Silks for Length Retention.

RELATED: Grow Natural Hair, Retain Length:  How to Seal in Moisture.



Thanks for reading and as always,

Mo' Hair!

RallyGirl ♥

Grow Natural Hair, Retain Length: 6 Co-Wash Must Haves that Pack in Moisture

Laying a solid foundation, helps me get through to the next wash day even when I'm off schedule.  I have 6 holy grail products/ingredients, I use when co-washing, that are sure to make my hair (Honey Puff) moisture rich!

1. Water:  Is the key to breaking down those natural, type 4 strands, making them pliable and ready to accept all the love you are about to give them!

2. Tresemme Naturals:  Is one of the go to conditioners I use as a cleanser for co-washing.  It's silicone free and contains Aloe & Avocado.   Honey Puff says, Yum!  **UPDATE:  The Tresemme Naturals that I used is no longer available, and from I'm finding is not being sold anymore.  What is this world coming to?!  Anywho, I'm in search of a replacement; I think I have a few in mind.  I'll return with any updates. 9/21/16

Shower Water

3. Herbal Essence's Hello Hydration:  Has been my favorite finishing conditioner for the last 4 years, (I sometimes cleanse with it too).  My type 4 hair also loves it when I leave in a little after co-washing.  This is the first conditioner that made a noticeable difference in the softness of my hair, even days later!

4. Aztec Secret Clay Mask:  Is a new, and the #2 contender in my arsenal (H2O is #1). It detoxifies, and delivers ultimate moisture that gives Honey Puff a bounce, swing, and fluff that I never knew could be achieved.  AMAZING results!  (Note:  I've used this twice in a row before, but generally, people use it more sporadically, like once every one or two months, etc.).

6 Co-Wash Moisture Must Haves

5. Aloe Vera:  Comes in at a very close 2nd, to the clay mask.  My little "secret" for getting my medium porosity hair to behave.  Aloe vera  is a humectant that draws moisture.  Aloe also closes the cuticle shaft, making the strands smoother, which reduces frizz, and increases the shine.  I cocktail pure aloe vera gel (or juice) with a water based leave-in, and spritz it on after co-washing.  I also use the spritz, each day, before applying a little oil, which helps keep my strands pillow soft.  Any product with aloe is alright with Honey Puff!

6. Oil:  An oil rinse immediately after the co-wash, is perfect for locking in moisture.  This is done by applying oil to a section of the hair, then allowing water to flow over that section for a few seconds.  For good measure, I also apply a little oil after spritzing the aloe vera mix.  Avocado and olive oils are my favorite to use for the rinse.  Since olive is generally the cheapest, I tend to use it the most.

Pure Aloe Vera

Avocado & Olive Oils are known to penetrate hair follicles

Keeping natural, type 4 hair moisturized is one of the most important factors in retaining length.  Even if I am off schedule with co-washing, I still apply some type of moisture everyday.

Because they are the oldest, and often the driest part of the strand, your ends need extra TLC so they don't break off.  Remember the goal here is to get that hang time.  Countless people skip this step, then wonder why they don't see results, or go on believing their hair doesn't grow.  Unless there are hormonal issues, or a scalp disorder, your has the potential to reach it's ultimate length.  So, I'm gonna need  you to come through on the moisture.

Thanks for reading, and as Gramma used to say, Mo' Hair!

RallyGirl♥


Product links:
Herbal Essence's Hello Hydration
Aloe Vera Gel
Avocado Oil
Olive Oil

Grow Natural Hair, Retain Length: How to Seal in Moisture; What Natural Hair Guru's Aren't Telling You

Many Naturalistas have adopted the coveted L.O.C. (Liquid, Oil, Cream) method to seal moisture into their tresses.   Information about this is all over the web; it's an excellent guide to use when getting started, but it’s always best to try different options to see what your natural hair loves most.  This applies to type 4 naturals as well as transitioners. 

I should note that because they are the oldest, and often the driest part of the strand, your ends need extra TLC.  To keep them from breaking off, make sure to double up on the moisture, so that your length can come through.

The simple steps are to apply the Liquid first, add the Oil, then seal with a Cream.  In the Natural Afro Hair world, we are governed by a ton of rules, guidelines, and reg-A-lations, but as the ultimate Ruler, your hair chooses the potion(s) you use.  

For me, the L.O.C. method can be a bit heavy for my hair, during the summer, when I’m wearing it out (in twist outs, wash & go’s etc.).   On these occasions, I just do an L.O. and go.  However in the winter, L.O.C. is the bomb for any style I wear, and it’s great for my protective styles any time of the year.  

Bottom line, L.O.C. is not a one size fits all.

Here are some examples of L.O.C. options:

Liquid:

• Water (typically preferred)
• Water based leave in conditioner
• Aloe Vera Juice

Oil:

• Almond oil
• Olive oil
• Coconut oil
• Avocado oil
• Castor oil
• Etc.

Cream:

• Over the counter styling creams
• Over the counter hairdresses
• Shea butter
• Coconut Oil  (well in my case when it's in its solid state)

I usually mix and match based on what I have on hand, but I always remain stocked up on these basic must haves:  

Aloe Vera Gel (or juice)

Water based Leave-in Conditioner

Olive Oil

Avocado Oil

Castor Oil

Shea Butter

Coconut Oil 

Be encouraged, and have fun trying the countless combinations, to see what your type 4 mane loves the best. 

Thanks for reading, and happy L.O.C.ing!

RallyGirl

L.O.C. product options:

Grow Natural Hair, Retain Length: 3 EASY Ways to Quick Trim (Dust) Your Ends

Getting shed of unhealthy ends is essential to having healthy, natural hair, and retaining its length.

Here, I demonstrate 3 quick and easy ways to trim (dust ) your ends:





When trimming your ends, always make sure you're using hair cutting shears and no other type of scissors.  Below are a few good options with varying price points:



Thanks for reading & watching!

Mo' Hair,

RallyGirl♥

Stunning Box Braids in 5 Minutes!

I always wanted box braids, because they're so exotic, and beautiful.  However, I just can't see myself, spending the time, or money on getting them installed.  Not to mention, who wants to constantly remind the braidstress to not tug on her roots and edges?!  MM mmmm.

Anyway, my solution is a box braid CovaGirl™.   It's a great protective style, fly, it's only 5 minutes to style, and less than that to "take down". 

Sensationnel Empress Box Braid CovaGirl™

After seeing reviews and shopping around, I chose this one, by Sensationnel.  Check out my video for the deets!

Product Link:  Sensationnel Empress Box Braids

Thanks for reading!

RallyGirl♥

4 Satin & Silk Ideas to Use that Will Help Retain the Length of Your Hair at Bedtime

Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep.  I Pray the Lord My Hair to Keep.

Cotton is my all time favorite fabric.  I mean it reigns supreme, and is the the most luxurious, and is simply the END dawling!  The idea of having a 100% cotton ball gown gives me life without parole.

EXCEPT...it ain't good for your hair.  For anyone trying to cultivate and retain the length of their hair, cotton is the enemy, because it's drying, and can cause breakage.  

For moisture, length, and style retention, silks and satins are where it's at!  I interchange bedtime options based on the style I'm wearing.  I wear several "looks"(I won't say headrags this time), but here, I've included just a few of the more glamorous options....  The ones that are less likely to make your man's/woman's eyes burn when you wear them.  

Product links left to right:

- Satin scarves are great for twists, braids, tightly styled fros, and locs.

- Morning Glamor satin pillowcases come in a set of two for those who like to match everything.

- Dome Cap is what I use when keeping my loose twists wrapped & stretched, or when I'm wearing plaits for CovaGirls™

- Leopard print pillowcase.  I picked up one of these for myself (because the hubs isn't into leopard).  LOL

My husband stays "entertained" by my night time routine, because it's ever changing.  Hey, a sista has to make that "It-took-me-2 hours-to-do" hairstyle last!

Don't get me wrong, I've thrown caution to the wind, a few times.  Had the nerve to sleep with my hair out, AND on a cotton pillow case.  Dry, crispy ends and edges was the toll I paid upon waking. The friction of the cotton against my tresses, resulted in lifted cuticles, so the smooth appearance, moisture and shine, got an attitude, packed their bags and scrammed!

If cotton is damaging to hair like this, I could only imagine what it does to skin -- they say it causes wrinkles.  O.o



Thanks for reading & Mo' Hair!

RallyGirl♥

My Bentonite Clay Mask Experience - Type 4 Hair

The bandwagon came back my way and I finally jumped on.  After watching a boat-load of videos about using benzonite clay for hair, I bought Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay.

Almost a year later, I'm just now getting around to trying it, and decided to make using clay masks a part of my hair care regimen.

Watch this video to see how I mixed and applied it, plus hear my final thoughts:




I buy most of my hair stuff from Amazon, because I often find items at a lower cost than in the store, AND, I prefer online shopping; there's something about getting packages in the mail.  If and ONLY if GNC has a BOGO sale, I order some items from there.

Here links to the products I used:

Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay
http://amzn.to/1SP7AJy

ACV with The Mother
http://amzn.to/1SP7Sjv

Coconut Oil
http://amzn.to/1SxqqXo

Aloe Vera Gel
Amazon: http://amzn.to/1SxqZQX
GNC: http://www.gnc.com/Natural-Brand-Aloe-Vera-Gel/product.jsp?productId=3053347

Olive Oil - most have this in their pantry, but if not you can get it here  http://amzn.to/1PXjj3D

What's your favorite hair mask.

EASY Complex Coiffured Crown Updo Tutorial

I love an interesting yet EASY updo.  It confirms that your hair is an accessory, and can be a statement to any ensemble, for all occasions!  Click on the photo to see my tutorial:

Links to items used for this style:

- Tangle Teezer
- Pure Refined Shea Butter
- Eco Styler Gel
- Edge Control (any kind at your fingertips)

Equal Box Braid CovaGirl™ GiveAway!

So....

I was at the beauty supply, minding my business, when suddenly our "eyes" met.

Finally, a braided unit that was not too long, with just the right amount of texture, and low sheen!  When I asked the clerk "How much is this unit?", she said, "Eighty-fih dollas"....  {blink blink}  Obviously, I was interrupting her meal.  O.o   

I digress.

.... Brand name (Equal Box Braid Lace Front) and other specs committed to memory, I high-tailed it to the house, popped open the laptop, and blow me down!  There she was...30 bucks!  Booyaah.  Did I NEED another box braid CovaGirl™?  Naw, but I couldn't let the deal slide, and for the price I had to also get a 2nd one for an illustrious member of my Afro squad!   

I'm a firm believer of protective styling as a tool to help retain length, especially during the cooler months.  Wearing CovaGirls™ is one of my favorite go to options during this time of year; your head is covered from the cold, and you can be stylish at the same time.  Functional beauty -- yeah, that's how I roll.

You're probably curious about the details of this braided baby.  Well, I gotcha covered!   Click on this photo (where I thought I was weeerking my eye makeup -- a look I "borrowed" from YouTube of course) to view my quick show and tell: 
  

Well, what are you waiting for?  Get your giveaway participation on!

GiveAway Guidelines: 

One winner will be randomly drawn; the more entries you have = higher chances for you to win!

- Join the I Am RallyGirl Afro Squad (provide your email address in the upper left column)
- LIKE I Am RallyGirl on Facebook
- Tweet this post with #iamrallygirl & tag @iamrallygirl 

Completing the above is the minimum requirement and automatically earns you 2 entries.


BUT, if you want more chances to win, here's what:  

- 1 additional entry each time you Tweet this post (exactly as instructed above).  No minimum.  

- 2 extra entries if you follow @iamrallygirl on Instagram (holla at ya girl!).

- 3 extra entries for each friend you invite to LIKE I Am RallyGirl on Facebook
(NOTE:  They have to LIKE the page & let us know you sent them)

Giveaway expires on 2/6/16.  Winner will be announced on YouTube, and on I Am RallyGirl on Facebook that following week. Stay tuned and good luck!

Equal Box Braid Lace Front:  Amazon.com 

The "Cold Witch" - An Easy DIY Scalp-Cleansing Solution

Admittedly, I don't like to wash installed braids and twists.  It makes my hair look like I've been outside playing kickball, hide and go seek, and inny bounce all day, in the hot summer sun, stopping only long enough to eat a popsicle, because HEY, you can't ignore the popsicle man when he comes to your neighborhood!  

...take a breath...Now digress....

One primary rule to retaining length is to keep your scalp clean, so after rummaging through my beauty stash, I came up with my own scalp-cleansing solution -- the 
"Cold Witch" cocktail, featuring witch hazel and cold pressed caster oil.

Witch Hazel is a natural astringent that's great for toning, healing, removing excess oil, brightening and eliminating itchy skin, (the list goes on).  In fact, when I was growing up, Dad would apply this home remedy to help heal my bumps and bruises; it was he who suggested I use it as a summer time "lotion".  Witch hazel has been a part of my daily skin care regimen for the last 20 years!

Cold pressed Caster Oil is said to be beneficial and is used for tons of home remedies and skin problems, like acne, dry skin, and stretch marks (just to name a few).  Because of its anti-bacterial, fungal infection-fighting, cleansing, and moisturizing properties, this is the only oil I deliberately apply to my scalp.  Cold pressed caster oil has also been a part of my hair/skin beauty arsenal ever since I can remember. 

The recipe:

2 Parts Witch Hazel
1 Part Cold Pressed Caster Oil
1 Small spray bottle
1 Piece of cotton jersey (t-shirt fabric)

Mix ingredients in spray bottle and shake well.  

I spray the cocktail on the jersey fabric, and gently rub it through each part.  I like to use white jersey so that I can see the dirt transfer from my scalp to the fabric -- TMI?  Oh, my bad.  

Happy cleansing! 


Before using any products or mixtures be sure to do your research.   

Knotless Crochet (Latch Hook) Braids w Cuban Twist

Crochet braids is a quick and easy way to install hair enhancements to achieve a variety of fashionable protective hairstyles.  In my town, (back in the 90s) they were called "Latch Hook Extensions", because a latch hook needle is used to achieve them.  By the way, back then, the look was atrocious, and your girl absolutely did NOT rock it! 

As always, with time comes evolution.  Latch Hook Extensions were re-named Crochet Braids, and coincidentally we have a plethora of protective style options at our fingertips...No pun intended.

Some argue that added weight and friction caused by the extensions could mean that Crochet Braids is not the best way to protect your hair.  Well, mine responds wonderfully with this method.  For me, the key is to keep my scalp clean, and to moisturize my own tresses as often as needed.  It's always best to experiment and test the waters to see what your hair loves the most.

Watch this video to see how I achieved my knotless crochet braids.  I warn you though; my cornrow game needs work, but I got the job done!





What's your favorite go to Crochet Braid style?  Leave it in the comments!

Hair Steaming with Q-Redew

Keeping your hair moist, is one of the essential steps in retaining the length of your hair.

Steaming is a great way to add moisture.  When I'm not in the mood to completely wet my tresses, I use the Q-Redew vapor wand to loosen up, re-moisturize, and even to refresh my wash and go's and other styles.  

I've enjoyed using this convenient tool for a couple years now, and my mane loves it.   Check out my review and demo below:

If you have this nifty little tool tell us how you like it, and if it lifted the spirits of your dry hair.  If you don't have the Q-Redew, but plan to invest in one, take advantage of the coupone codes below.    

'Tis the season to enjoy discounts!   Merry saving!

Comparison: Finger Comber's Havana Hair -vs- Acrylic Yarn -vs- Marley Braid Hair

I'm in denial. I'd love to say that I like wearing my hair free and flowing in the wind.  I do, BUT there is a reality.  

With my on-going quest to retain length, AND with my love of low maintenance, I've grown accustomed to and DO enjoy rocking protective styles.  In efforts to save money, I've done my fair share of twist/braid installations for myself (oh the agony!), using various types of hair enhancements.  

Which is best you ask?  You're in luck!  I've done the work for you!  

This video features Finger Comber's Havana hair, Acrylic Yarn, & Marley Braid Hair.  Here, I compare price, moisture retention, longevity, prep, & overall value. 

After you check out the video, come back & let us know which option you think would best meet your needs.  Do tell!  

Finger Comber Havana Hair -vs- Acrylic Yarn -vs- Marley Braid

Which hair enhancements have you tried?  Which do you like the best and why? Let us know in the comments section below!

Finger Comber's Havana Hair

Acrylic Yarn

Marley Braid Hair