Monday 24th May 2010

So, I'm finding that as much as I love the progress of natural hair growth, I am also slightly impatient. I WANT IT ALL NATURAL NOW!!! The dual texture is causing me frustration because it makes styling a little harder. And, yes ladies and gents, every so often I find myself pondering whether I should go back to the creamy crack. Hair rehab is hard!!

As I mentioned in the first week of Mane Texturez, patience is key, and when that begins to falter, what you need is inspiration!!

Inspiration is what at this moment is keeping me from relaxing my hair again. It's what gives me a goal to work to and keeps me excited about what I will be working with soon.

I have quite a few natural hair inspirations, so I thought I would share them with you.

Erykah Badu

Her beauty is so undeniable that designer Tom Ford saw fit to use her as the face of his fragrance White Patchouli. I was most impressed that her big natural hair was made a feature of and not just straightened out to fit the media's rigid standards of beauty.

Jill Scott

Another strong soulstress who for most of her career rocked natural hair tresses. Singer. Poet. Actress. This talented lady has beautiful hair which she is not afraid to change up to suit her mood or style! Her big hair accentuates her even bigger smile and even bigger voice.

A role as Mma Precious Ramotswe in the BBC's adaptation of The No1 Ladies Detective Agency not only showcased her brilliant acting prowess but also her halo-like natural tresses.

Janelle Monae

This feisty little songstress has a beautiful retro vibe to go alongside her very futuristic sound. Her perfect pompadour never has a hair out of place and perfectly complements her features.

I'm thinking of incorporating a braided version of her style throughout my transition.

Who is your hair inspiration? xx

 Wednesday 26th May 2010

Last week, we had a shampoo and the week before- a conditioner. This week, we have an ingredient which should be in any Bedroom Beautician's supply stash. This all-purpose ingredient can be used on hair, body and nails and is hailed for it's moisturising properties.

Shea Butter is a slightly ivory toned natural extract from the seed of the African Shea tree. Folklore suggests that it is known as Women's Gold because only the women from the village are allowed to pick the seed and handle its preparation.

Shea butter is similar to Coconut oil, in that it is a solid at room temperature. It melts at body temperature and is very quickly absorbed without greasy residue. This makes it a perfect substance to use in health and beauty care. Its benefits can be listed as follows: fading scars, soothing burns, rashes and eczema, moisturising severely dry skin, chapped lips, and also an excellent wrinkle cream since it contains a substance which protects the skin from UV rays. 

For hair care, I use Shea butter as a daily moisturiser as well as deep conditioning oil. I like to coat my strands with it after I have washed and conditioned my hair as I find it not only leaves my hair soft and pliable but also works as a good heat protectant. Because of the level of fatty acids contained within Shea Butter, it is good for both hair and skin because it helps to retain moisture and elasticity. 

A great all round product. Why not add it to your arsenal?