Monday May 10th 2010

So, since we are discussing transitioning, maybe it would be useful for us to discuss "protective styling". As you transition, you will find that as your hair begins to grow (assuming you haven't adopted the 'big chop' method), you will be working with two different textures of hair. Virgin hair at the roots and chemically treated ends. This is a very fragile time for your hair since this is the stage at which your hair will be more prone to split ends as well as breakage. This can also be quite a frustrating time since hair styling needs to be more considerate because of the fore-mentioned dual textures.

This is the time when protective styling is of paramount importance. As the name suggests, protective styling, serves the purpose of protecting the hair during this critical time (especially the ends and 'the join') as well as taking some of the stress out of styling on a day to day basis.

Loose buns, rolls, 'fluff week' style pin ups, braids, cornrows, weaves, and wigs are all great ways to protect your hair during your transitioning, and with a little bit of imagination can be just as versatile and varied in styling options all while maintaining optimum health for your mane.

 Since I now have my first official transitioning hairstyle I thought I should share it with you.

 At the moment I'm rocking a cornrow based braided updo. The style is very simple but because of the intricate design of the plaits it makes the hairstyle interesting and appealing to the eye. When first done, I had a simple plaited bun attached to the top of the cornrow ponytail. However, I decided that it wasn't very representative of my actual style (a little too matronly in my opinion). So I now have a curly afro puff which, I think, is more free-spirited and textured.

 The benefit of a look like this is that I can get an extra five minutes sleep!! In the mornings, I just remove my satin scarf, spray my hair, fluff my puff and simple! Hair's done. It has other benefits also. Because my scalp is exposed through the braiding process, it makes it sooooo much easier for me to oil my scalp with my 'superoil formula' (recipe coming soon). This means my scalp can get optimum moisture.One drawback I find with wearing a weave. My ends are also well protected and secured, and I can also administer oil to that part of my hair also so that I know that they are not being neglected.

 I estimate, based on the speed at which my hair grows, and the speed at which styles tend to get fuzzy in my hair texture, I will probably have this style for at least 3 ½ - 4 weeks maximum. I doubt I can keep it in longer because of the reasons I just outlined as well as the fact I get bored quickly.

I will post examples of my protective styles as I transition.

Loreal Elvive re-nutrition caring creme conditioner with Royal Jelly.

 Aimed at people with dry or thirsty hair and promises to 'intensely nourish and replenish elasticity' to restore your hair to a 39;bouncy, silky' state.

Like I said on Monday, after taking down my weave I noticed how dry my hair was. Usually opting for "black hair products", I stumbled across this product with some trepidation, but also with a level of curiosity. I was intrigued by the Royal Jelly extract. Royal Jelly is hailed for its nutritious qualities. It is created by the bees and fed to the Queen bee as a source of intense nourishment. Royal Jelly is great for hair and nails since it is rich in B vitamins and amino acids. These B vitamins are often found in many hair and nail supplements. On inspection of the ingredients, which are listed in order of quantities, I found that in reality there wasn't very much contained. I bought it anyway since I planned to enrich it with some oils.

 The bottle is well packaged. With its lid being flat it can be stood in a way which makes extracting the product effortless. And, its easy flip lid means wet hands are no issue.

The scent is quite yummy, and upon application, my hair immediately felt soft and manageable. Rinsing out the product was easy, with no lingering residue.

Once my hair was dried, it was a struggle not to keep touching it! So soft and touchable. The extra oils used obviously enhanced the potency of the conditioner. 

Overall a great product and one which is now a staple within my collection of products.