Foodie Fridays | How to Cook Caribbean Baby Pak Choi With Salted Cod (Saltfish)

Healthy meals can be easy and quick. Today's tasty Caribbean meal packs in an extra serving of vegetables in a super-tasty way. Watch the tutorial below to see how it's done. The tutorial for preparing salted cod follows.

Salted cod is often referred to in the Caribbean as saltfish. It is simply fish that has been preserved in salt. It cannot be used straight out of the package as it will make just about any dish unbearably salty. The video below will show you how to prepare your salted cod/saltfish for use.

How to do the Easy Twisted Bun on Natural Hair

1. After detangling your natural hair, create a puff.

 

2. Create loose individual twists using the hair from the ponytail. 
2. Loosely shape and pin each twist to create the height and volume you need. 

STYLING TIPS
Want a style that will last all day? Try these tips.

• Create your bun the night before and tie your hair down to help the front of the bun set and prevent flya-ways. 
• Use a no-flaking gel like Eco Styler Gel to help fly-aways lay down.
• Add extension hair to the ponytail for a bigger twisted bun.

Happy styling!

How to do a Sophisticated Natural Hair Bun in 5 Minutes

Easy Natural/Stretched Hair Bun

This simple bun is quick and easy while being perfect for a myriad of events.  The bun can be done in under 5 minutes and is perfect for stretched hairs.

Quick Natural Hairstyle, 2014 Hair Resolutions and Length Check

Quick natural, transitioning or relaxed hair protective hairstyle

I've recently become obsessed with this new hairstyle since the end of 2013. It's quicker than a bun. Yup. It's faster to get done than a bun and can be done on any texture of loose hair or twists. 

Quick natural, transitioning or relaxed hair protective hairstyle

Quick natural, transitioning or relaxed hair protective hairstyle

Watch the tutorial for the hairstyle below. 

Resolutions

Well it's 2014 and time to make some changes. Some of you may know that I have committment issues with my hair. Typically, I get the itch for a significant change like going natural, locking, cutting or relaxing after just 2 months and I usually cut my hair all off every 2 years. Well, this is the year that I plan to:

• Not cut off my hair. (The hardest challenge)
• Not lock my hair.
• Do massive amounts of protective styling.
• Transition from my relaxer without big chopping. 
• Deep condition every 2 weeks.

Wish me luck! LOL

Length Check

Picture Length Check

The picture above shows my blow-dried hair at the end of 2013. I wasn't the best to my hair this year but I surely retained some length. Although I'm transitioning and will be trimming occasionally in 2014 and look forward to doing another length check at the end of 2014. 

How to Deep Clean Your Hair Tools Safely & Easily

Basic Hair Tools

It may seem like a hassle but cleaning your hair tools can be a quick and easy process that prevents/hinders a number of scalp conditions and infections like dandruff and tinea capitis (ringworm). Keep reading to learn how to safely clean your products.

I recommend washing your hair tools once a week while washing your hair and giving them a deep clean at least once a month. If you have an ongoing scalp issue, it is best to clean your tools at least once a week or after every wash. I give specific instructions on special care considerations for some items so be sure to read the entire blog post.

Giving my hair tools a long overdue deep clean

DEEP CLEANING HAIR TOOLS

Brushes, combs and plastic clips can be washed in a small tup or your face basin. Don't forget things like the blow dryer attachments and plastic containers in which you store your products. Everything you use needs to remain as clean as possible.

Make your own solution that is sure to kill most normal bacteria. I suggest mixing the following into a medium sized tub. You can add more of some ingredients as needed.

• Warm water (only use hot water if trying to kill specific bacteria associated with things like ring worm. Hot water on your products regularly can cause damage)
• 4 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 4 tbsp clear clarifying shampoo or even dishwashing liquid
• 1 tbsp tea tree oil
• 4 tbsp baking soda

After mixing this solution, use your combs and brushes to wash each other thoroughly. 

You can let plastic items sit in the water for up to 20 minutes if you desire but remove wooden items immediately to reduce possible water damage. 

Next it's time to dry your hair tools.

DRYING  COMBS, CLIPS AND BRUSHES

Plastic combs and clips are easy to dry. Let them sit on a clean towel overnight.

Brushes, however, should always be dried with bristles facing downward as shown in the image above. Why? You don't want the water to drain down into the glue and loosen the bristles or start growing any type of fungus at the base.

Further, wooden items should be given special considerations since they can crack when left wet for long periods of time. Dry the easy-to-reach sections with a washcloth and then dry as suggested above. If you want your wooden tools to last even longer, blow-dry them for a couple of minutes on medium heat to get rid of the excess water.

Flat Iron

CLEAN YOUR FLAT IRON

Flat irons need to be cleaned too. Yup. These things can also harbour bacteria and reinfect you with undesired scalp diseases. Place a rag into the same soapy solution used above. Use that damp cloth to wipe the flat iron. Next, use a clean, wet rag to wipe it clean then dry it thoroughly with a soft, dry cloth.

CLEAN YOUR HAIR TIES, PINS AND MORE

For everything you can't exactly dunk into water, place them in an air tight plastic bag like a  zip lock bag and put them in the freezer for a few hours. Most bacteria cannot survive in extremely cold temperatures.


That's all folks. Remember to keep your hair tools clean to prevent bacteria from festering and causing annoying scalp issues in the future.

– Keep It Kinky
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How to Curl Natural Hair with a Curling Wand

Hair curled with curling wand – Source

Curling wands are one of the most popular new hair appliances of 2013. The great thing - they can be easily used on natural hair. Now, we don't support the use of heat on a daily basis, but after getting home from work and having to head out for the New Year's Eve party, this is a perfect hairstyle that you don't have to set the night before. Watch  the tutorials below to see how you can achieve these beautiful curls with a curling wand in minutes before leaving for your special night out.

Natural Hair curled with Curling Wand – Source

MeechyMonroe also did her own tutorial on YouTube. If the one above doesn't quite work for you, try Meechy's tutorial for how to curl natural hair with a curling wand below.

SUGGESTED PRODUCTS


Blow-drying Heat Protectant – Morfose Thermal Guard Serum with Argan Oil (Under 10USD)

Wand Curling Heat Protectant – IC Hair Polisher Heat Protector Straightening Serum (Under 10USD)

Curling Wand – Any Remington Curling Wand (Under 30USD)


HAIR CARE TIPS!

• Always add heat protectant before applying any kind of heat to your hair. 
• If your curls start to drop, don't reapply heat. This can be damaging. Pin curl your hair at night or tie your hair upwards to preserve curls.
• If you still loose your curls, work with the hairstyle. Do an updo on day two and maybe a loose bun on day three. Remember, regular heat application can be damaging to natural hair causing loss of curl definition and general drying/destruction of the hair structure.

Simple Natural Hairstyle How-To – Transitioning Hair Appropriate

Simple Transitioning or Natural Hairstyle

If you're transitioning to natural hair, it can get very difficult to keep your hair looking neat and camouflaging your curly and straight textures. This hairstyle might help. Why? It helps your scraggly ends to look more full and blend with the texture of your kinks, curls or waves. Bonus, this style could last you years since it can be done on fully natural or fully relaxed hair too.

STEP BY STEP HAIRSTYLE INSTRUCTIONS & TIPS

Best results will be received when hair is prepped/set the night before the style is to be worn.

Step 1
Moisturize and Seal your hair. Always try to work with or only manipulate lightly damp or very moisturised hair as it is less prone to breakage.

Step 2
Loosely detangle or detangle hair with fingers. The more thoroughly you detangle, the smoother the top of your hairstyle will be.

Step 3
Section the front of your hair that you wish to flat twist. Be sure to part one side all the way to the nape of your neck so that it will blend easily into your ponytail at the center back or to the side of the back of your hair. In the pictured style above, hair was parted  from the right ear and curved around near the other ear and then on to the nape of the neck  for a large section.

Step 4
Secure away the back section then flat twist the front section of hair from one side all the way to the nape of the neck and pin to secure. If you don't know how to flat twist, visit this link to learn how – http://tinyurl.com/kpbsdjg. 

Step 5
Apply a bit of a light holding agent of your choice (like Eco Styler Gel) and then secure the back part of your hair along with the end of your twisted section into a single ponytail. At this point, you may remove the pin that was inserted to keep your twist in tact.

Step 6
Apply a holding agent (like Eco Custard or Cantu Shea Butter For Natural Hair Coconut Curling Cream) to the ponytail. Plait or twist the ends of the hair into about 4-6 sections then wrap them into a bun.

Step 7
Tie hair with scarf to keep the style smooth. Let style set overnight leave the scarf on for for 3-4 hours if you are short on time. Remember - the longer you let the style set, the longer it will last.

Step 8
Remove the scarf and separate the ponytail section. You should have kinks and curls at the end of your hair as pictured above. Manipulate the curls for the desired fullness. Optional – you can also turn this into a big messy bun if you desire a more conservative look.


TIP – Redo the ponytail into 4 large twists and a bun at night to keep the style for another day. Don't forget to tie it down to keep it neat. Apply more gel and gently brush the top of the hair if needed.


Happy styling and Keep it Kinky!

Milkmaid Natural Hairstyle Tutorial

Source

So you need to leave the house and need a quick hairstyle to head to the grocery store... or your gallery opening. If this suits your style, you'll be out the door in minutes. Watch the tutorial below for inspiration and guidance and remember that you can always add hair to your ponytail to give you some added length.

How to Flat Twist on Natural Hair (Multiple Methods)

Flat twists based natural hairstyle

I was once there. I had no idea how to cornrow/canerow and thought that flat twists were equally difficult. Thanks to YouTube, I soon found out that flat twists are ridiculously easy to you. You just have to find the technique that works for you.

Flat Twists Natural Hairstyle

Learning how to flat twist will open up a variety of styling options for you. Watch the videos below to learn a myriad of techniques and decide which looks easiest to you and keep practising. Remember, you may not get it perfect the first time. And before you say you don't have time, think of the amount of money you can save and the beautiful twist-outs you'll have in the mornings after practising these things at night. (Remember - Flat twists can be used to prep for perfect twist-outs).

Method 1

Method 2

Now that you know how to flat twist, you can attempt this very easy natural hairstyle. Watch the tutorial below.

If this tutorial-based blog post was helpful, share it with a friend or on Facebook. Oh, and please do link with us on facebook at www.facebook.com/kikmagazine.

Head & Hair Gear for Natural Hair

It's not always east to find hats and accessories that suit your natural hair but when you do, it's a wonderful thing. Besides being stylish, hats, scarves and other natural hair accessories can help to get you out the door in minutes. Check the pictures of some of our favourite looks below then watch the video at the end for styling tips and ideas.

1. The scarf is super-easy and perfect for the woman who loves the afro-centric regal look. If you're in Jamaica, you can find a scarf here.

2. The Baseball or Kangol Cap is easy and fun. If you're going super casual to the gym or an outdoor event, this may just suit your style. Remember, you don't have to wear your hair out as shown in the pic below. You could also do this with cornrows or a low bun. Bonus? You won't have to worry about the wind blowing hair into your face. Tip! Be sure to buy one that accommodates size adjustment for your varied natural hairstyles.

3. The Headband is great for adding a little sparkle or spunk to your natural hairdo and works well to keep your hair out of your face too.

Source

4. Fascinators add extra glam and can also be perfect for weddings when done in white.

Source

Source

5. The Fedora is a simple and trendy way to look stylish on the weekends. Tip - If you have trouble getting one to fit, find your size. Lots of stores carry different sizes and sometimes the solution is as simple as looking online, visiting a few stores or twisting/cornrowing your hair before you top off your 'do.

Source

6. The Tam. Well, that's what I call it but some people call it a beanie. LOL. This is probably the absolute easiest it's gonna get when it comes to hair accessories. Throw it on (and pin it down on the sides if necessary) before dropping the kids to school. If you can't find one lined with satin, be careful of wearing it for too long since the wool can dry out your hair.

Source - @Naptural85

7. Broad rimmed hats come in a variety of styles. Traditional church hats are great too. It's all about your personal style and comfort level. Not everyone like the extra attention and super glam look but it's certainly a very special and luxe look.

FINAL TIP!
Many hats come in fabrics like cotton and felt that can dry out and break your hair. Consider buying a satin headband or maybe even a satin cap and wear it under your headgear to protect your hair.


Check out Candy from NaturalHairNamix on YouTube talking about her favourite headgear for her natural hair below.

Don't forget to sign up to the email list at: http://tinyurl.com/6s2rll9.

How to Fake a Big Natural Bun with Short (TWA) Natural Hair

Source

Felicia Van Grogan on YouTube @frogan has the solution to all the short-haired ladies who desperately want to get that slicked bun with their natural hair. Check out her before and after pics below and then watch her video tutorial below.

Source

Source

Source

If you still think it's too good to be true, watch the video tutorial below.

The 15-Minute (or Less) Cure for Bad Hair Days: The Bun

We've all been there. Maybe your twist-out isn't looking quite so right after having been caught in the rain yesterday. Perhaps you fell asleep before doing your nightly ritual and now your braid-out is mushed to your head. If you have medium length hair or longer, the bun is your solution to looking refined and getting out the door quickly.

A slicked back bun is appropriate for every occasion and Alicia shared the secret to getting it smooth and slick in minutes. Watch the video below.

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How to Do Comb Coils or Comb Twists

Comb twists, also called comb coils are very easy to do and can last up to 3 weeks if it is properly maintained. To create this style, we recommend using:

• fine tooth rat tail comb
• spray bottle of water
• Eco Styler Styling Gel
• Extra Virgin Coconut and Olive oil (mixed and applied together)

Eco Styler Styling Gel

The Process

1. Start on wet hair. 
2. Fully detangle the hair.
3. Add oil
4. Section hair with fingers or combs into small sections.
5. Apply a small amount of gel, (I do not recommend using as much as was used in the video below).
6. Use a fine tooth rat tail comb to comb hair from root to tip while twisting the comb and hair (see video below).
7. Sit under the dryer to set hair.

Alicia Keys Inspired Hairstyle on Transitioning Hair

Alicia Keys inspired Hairstyle on Locs and Transitioning Hair

So, I'm about 5 months post-relaxer and happily transitioning back to natural hair. I saw the style pictured above on Alicia Keys and just had to try it. That's me in the picture on the right and Alicia Keys on the left. The style is versatile and can work on almost any hair type or occasion. KiK Reader with locked hair, Hempress, got her hair styled in a similar way. Her picture is shown in the middle above. How do you think we did?

Alicia Keys Inspired Protective Hairstyle on Transitioning Hair

One thing to remember about being inspired is that you don't have to do the exact hairstyle. My hair wasn't 100% smooth from the front but I just went with it. Don't feel like you've failed if you don't get your hair to look exactly like an inspiration pic. Just do your best and make the style work for you.

Alicia Keys Inspired Protective Hairstyle on Transitioning Hair

This style took me about 5-10 minutes to create on stretched hair. 

• I just sectioned the front and clipped it away then cornrowed/french braided the back of my hair and plaited the ends. 
• After this, I tucked the ends in as best I could and pinned it secure. 
• For the front, I detangled thoroughly and brushed my hair to the front. 
• I then slightly twisted the end and tucked it into the top of my braid and secured it with a pin. 
• I then used hair pins to secure anything that wasn't quite in place into position.

That's all it took. So yes, I'll be doing this hairstyle quite often.

I don't usually do Outfit of the Day (OOTD) posts but I figured I'd post my outfit as well. I was pleasantly surprised that the style, though edgy, worked with my very simple outfit style. 

Keep It Kinky!

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3 Quick Hairstyles for Jumbo/Havana Twists on Natural Hair

Chunky or Jumbo twists have been all the rage this summer. They are quick, easy and sometimes boring. Yes, having your hair in twists all the time, though convenient, can get boring at times. Here are three styles that you can do quickly and easily to change things up a bit.

Watch the video tutorial below.

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How to Evenly Cut Shoulder Length or Longer Natural Hair at Home

No matter how much you trim your hair, you will need a good haircut every once in a while. If you hate going to the salon or maybe are just on a budget, this blog post is for you. Today we're giving you tips on how you can cut your hair evenly at home.

This method works really well for:

• Women with shoulder length or longer natural hair.
• Women who desire blunt cuts and want to gradually or even immediately get rid of the unwanted layers that sometimes appear in our hair over time. 
• Women who are patient and willing to take their time in getting this process right. Rushing through this process can lead to poor results. 

Here is the basic outline of what you'll need to do. 

1. Blow-dry your hair. 
2. Ensure that it is properly detangled at all times. 
3. Use a very sharp hair cutting scissor that is not used for any other purpose. 
4. Section your hair in half from ear to ear. 
5. Detangle thoroughly then pull the hair down and snip off the ends that you do not want. 
6. Detangle again then repeat this process to catch any stray hairs that got away. 
7. Section the front into two parts down the middle. 
8. Working with one section at a time (see video for demo) ensure that your hair is even with the back section. 
9. Repeat step 6. 

So, of course, nothing beats viewing this process in real time so watch the video below to see exactly how it can be done. 

Thanks for stopping by and don't forget to Keep It Kinky.

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Getting Caught in the Rain with Natural Hair – What to do?

Black woman in rain with umbrella and hat – Source

You don't have to stress when you get caught in the rain. Any wet hair related problems can be solved with:

• hairpins
• headband or scarf
• umbrellas and
• a comb and brush
• hair ties/hair bands.

Those things should be in your handbag at all times if you're a natural but are especially useful if you get caught in the rain.

Here are some major problems that rain causes for naturals and how to deflect them.

Curly hair covered by an umbrella

EXPANDED TWIST/BRAID-OUT

Does your hair expand once humidity hits? You're not alone. Sometimes a simple headband or scarf is all you need to make your hair flop look like a hairstyle. Keep a black headband or scarf around. That is usually appropriate for the office or the park.

Natural haired woman wearing headband

No scarf? Use a ponytail holder and throw your hair into a high puff that can be transformed into a messy but respectable high (or low) bun with the aid of a few hair pins.

EXTRA THICK HAIR

If your hair is super-thick, your problem may be a little bigger (literally) than most other women. Style your hair as quickly as possible to avoid significant and unmanageable shrinkage. If you hair is far beyond the repair of a bun because of length or thickness, try a pin, tuck and roll hairstyle like the one featured in the tutorial below. It's the perfect rainy day hairstyle. All you need are pins or hair combs.

WET HAIR

Nobody wants to return to the office with wet hair after getting caught in the rain during their lunch break. The answer is a no-brainer but so many people don't do it – Keep a small lightweight umbrella in your purse at all times. There are tons of stylish ones available at a pharmacy near you that will fit perfectly into most average sized purses.

Natural haired black woman with umbrella

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