Top 5 Natural Hair Mistakes

It seems that all the rage is going natural these days. Don't get me wrong, I love that more women are embracing their natural hair, but from a few of the questions I get, things I see and hear other naturals talking about sometimes, I feel there are little things that can throw us off coarse in our quest for healthy, natural hair.

#5 Thinking It's Going To Be Easy

When some people transition, they think it's going to be easy. Natural hair in my opinion, does what it wants. The 2 textures (natural and relaxed) are going to be competing with each other. They feel as though curls are easy to work with because they basically style themselves and this is far from the truth. Curls need attention, which makes your job harder. You have to put in the work to maintain the health of your hair.

#4 Using Too Many Products

I can say this because I've been there. i was trying to figure out what my hair wanted, but would still jump on band wagons. Make sure to stick to products that your hair enjoys and not confuse yourself with too many products. This helps your hair and your wallet.

#3 Over manipulation 

Your hair likes to be left alone. If you constantly bother your hair (twirling the hair in your fingers, using heat daily, combing every day, etc.) you may be more prone to breakage and frizz. I find it helpful to do a hairstyle that keeps my hair off my face and neck with the ends tucked away which helps me keep my fingers away. I also style my hair at least once a week which also helps me not to over manipulate the hair or stress it out.

#2 Not Moisturizing Enough

Some may feel like if they moisturize ONLY on wash day, then they are good until the next wash day which is totally the opposite. Natural hair craves moisture. It does not have to be a grease fest every day. Take a spray bottle with water and maybe some olive oil mixed in and use that a little for daily moisture or use Shea butter (or your favorite butter) to moisturize and seal with your favorite oil at night. It also helps with frizz and makes your hair not look dull.

#1 Setting High Expectations After The Big Chop

Some persons feel as though if they see someone with a texture, their texture may be the exact same way. Or they may see one texture appear during the transition in a section of their head and feel as though their entire head is going to be that texture. These expectations can cause us to miss out on appreciating our own unique hair qualities and miss out on what our hair really is- A special part of us and our heritage. 

Remember that going natural is NOT a race. Focus on your own hair health at your own pace and your hair will thank you for it. 

Handbag Haul

Besides loving all things makeup, I love handbags. I have a small haul to share with you complete with satchels, tote and crossbody bag.

This bag called "Sevilla" is by Imoshion and purchased on Hautelook (discounted designer item flash sale site). I fell in love with the print as it is perfect for spring and summer. The floral prints on this bag sit on a pastel mint faux calf skin complete with diamond fringe tassel.

This bag called "Shelby"is also by Imoshion and purchased on Hautelook.

I've never owned a green handbag so I jumped for this when I saw it. Shelby is completely vegan as it is faux leather and classy diamond fringed tassel. It also has a great paisley design on the inside of the bag.

You can also find the Imoshion bags at the online store: http://www.imoshionstore.com

I grew up with Kipling being the popular kids school bag with the signature monkey. I purchased this cross body bag at the Orlando Premium Outlets for $20 and found it at the online Kipling store for $44. 

The Alvar XS Cross-Body Minibag is perfect for short trips to the store or even dinner with friends.

I've also never owned a light blue hand bag and I fell in love with the Ostrich print ever since I purchased my Dooney & Bourke Ostrich handbag. This bag called "Law" is from JustFab and I was surprised to find out that they sold handbags as they are well known for their discounted shoes. 

The detail on this bag is amazing and I love the huge amount of space on the inside of the bag. I am of the belief that this can double as an overnight bag.

Just chatting about the first three bags. Which one's are your favs?

How I: Bantu knots + length check

I use Bantu Knots as a stretching technique when I need a little more bounce with my stretch. However, some use it as a hairstyle which is can be used as. I normally rock my Bantu Knots as a hairstyle for about 2-3 days before taking them down and doing something else with my hair.



I am also very pleased with my hair growth. I did the big chop back in 2011 and the process has been great.

This was my hair immediately after the cut in NYC at the Deva Chan Salon (2011).

Products used:
Herbal Essences Long Term Relationship Leave in Protector
HairVeda Whipped Gelly
HairVeda Whipped Ends Hydration

How's your hair growth journey going? Have you tried Bantu Knots?

Faux Lashes

I'm a super false eyelash junkie! Even though my eyes are already large, I always want to make them stand out with bigger, bolder lashes. I stumbled across this false eyelash company called Fauxlash.com. 

There are 8 collections in all, each uniquely different. They claim to have their lashes "hand-knotted to ensure strength and longevity." I was lucky enough to catch a sale and was able to snag three pairs that appealed to my tastes.

The "Tiny Stars" pair is the most adorable set of lashes I have ever seen. I love the jeweled and star detail all in the color purple. The are half lashes which can offer a more realistic yet futuristic & playful appearance.

Price: $12 at http://fauxlash.com 

The "Violet Noir" is from the Runway collection. I loved how full and lush they appeared online and surprisingly did not disappoint in person either. They are described as "sultry violet strands that add a multidimensional effect." I think these make great lashes for the holiday season.

Price: $18 at http://fauxlash.com 

The "Gaga" lash is from the Tres Chic collection. The Gaga lash is described as fun and flirty and "will make you feel like a showstopper." These lashes have great length and volume which can offer the perfect balance between drama, sophistication and fabulousness. 

Price: $10 at http://fauxlash.com

Each case has the name of the type of lash on the back of the casing for easy identification.

 Shipping was fast and the purchasing process was smooth even during a sale. These and many more lashes can be purchased at http://fauxlash.com