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 Winterize Your Natural Hair Regimen

Curly Natural Hair – Source

If your hair is starting to get dry and brittle from the harsh, cold weather, this article is for you. There are a number of things that you can do to reduce the chances of your hair being dry and dull during the winter. Keep reading to find out some simple steps you can take to maintaining, luscious, healthy and moisturised curls this winter.

1. MOISTURISE – Moisturise your natural hair with water or a water based product and seal in the moisture with a light oil like coconut oil twice daily. In the summer you may not have needed to do this more that every few days. In the winter, you will need to do this at least once a day (sometimes twice) to maintain the moisture in your hair.
   
   
   
   
   
2. TREATMENTS – Give your hair some heat. Yes. You can add heat to your hair and it's OK. Do a hot oil treatment with olive oil  and a plastic cap every couple of weeks and sit under the dryer for 10-15 minutes to keep your hair moisturised and strong. I also advocate regular deep moisturising conditioning treatments at least every 2 weeks during a wash session.
   
   

   

   Source

   
   
3. PROTECT WITH AND FROM HATS – Hats, especially beanies are accessory staples for many people with natural hair but the wool fabric can be very drying to the hair while grabbing coils and snapping off small pieces at a time. The solution?
   
   Wear a satin cap under your beanie to protect your natural strands from being dried out by the wool. You can even hand or machine stick the satin cap to the beanie for easy on and off. Also, don't forget that hats also help to protect your hair from harsh cold conditions.
   
   
4. PROTECTIVE STYLES – I love scarves. I wear them in different ways all year round. Unfortunately, though, they rub against my hair and dry it out, often times, ruin my style. The solution – a protective style. Protective styles both protect your hair ends from rubbing against your clothing and scarves and protect your hair ends from the drying cold air.
   
   Since protective styles keep your hair ends tucked away and reduce daily manipulation, it is easier for your hair to maintain it's moisture.

Natural Hair in Cold Weather

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Fall & Winter Cold Weather Natural Hair Care Tips

For many of us across the world, the temperatures are falling. This is when we break out our stylish boots or scarves and yes, switch up our hair regimen. Your beloved wash n'go may get a bit too icy while you wait in the cold for the train or bus. Here are some ways to keep your hair strong and soft in the cold seasons.

Source – Naptural85

1. DEEP CONDITION WEEKLY – Moisture retention and hair breakage can be challenging at this time of year. Deep condition regularly to help prevent single strand knots and breakage. I happen to love the Beautiful Textures Rapid Repair deep conditioner. Do this with each You can opt for a ph balanced conditioner like Aphogee 2-Step Conditioner to maintain that pH, protein-moisture balance. Or, you can still use a protein conditioner every 3-4 weeks to maintain the pH balance.
   
2. MOISTURISE MORE OFTEN – Especially if you have very kinky hair, you will most likely need to moisturise and seal every day. This will maintain the moisture daily
   
3. GO HEAVY – Use heavier creams or butters like Shea butter based products (eg. Jane Carter Nourish & Shine or Cantu Shea Butter Coconut Curling Cream). These tend to hold moisture well in colder climates and not dry out quickly like some light, water-based products.  Hence, your hair will stay moisturised for longer stretches of time.
   
4. STYLE WHILE DAMP – If you are struggling with dry hair, style your hair while damp. If your hair is already dry, mist it with water and add oil to make the hair more pliable. This allows you to style your hair without the crack, snapple and pops we often get with dry natural hair.        
5. PROTECT THE ENDS – The ends are the oldest part of your hair and you will find that they do not hold up well in the cold. Give them special attention at night and moisturise your hair and seal in the moisture to prevent them from becoming brittle.
   
6. PROTECTIVE STYLE – Protective styling helps to protect your in multiple ways. As mentioned above (5.) this will protect your hair from the cold while maintaining a much more moisture than when wearing your hair out. Also, this will keep your hair off your neck to keep the hair off your thick cottony scarf or felt coat which looks great but will dry out your hair while rubbing against it causing breakage.
   
7. WASH N' GOs – This is the season that works well for protective styles but if you opt for a wash n' go, try to dry your hair before leaving home. Sit under the dryer for 5 minutes while having your morning cup of tea or coffee of – catch up on the news and weather forecast on your ipad. Spending and extra 5-10 minutes to dry your hair can make a big difference in the amount of moisture your hair retains after washing. Also, you can add a diffuser attachment to your dryer and use that to add indirect heat to aid in the drying process.
   
8. BE CAREFUL WITH COCONUT OIL – If you use a lot of coconut oil, you must be careful in cold temperatures. Coconut oil tends to freeze when in the cold and when you go indoors into heated areas, it melts. So obviously, if too much oil is used, it may drip and your hair may feel hard when out in the cold.
   
9. GO SATIN – Cotton and wool products soak up moisture. Many of our scarves are made of cotton. Opt for satin instead or style your hair in updos to keep it away from drying fabrics. For hats, tie your hair with a satin scarf or us a satin cap underneath to prevent the hair from rubbing agains the rough, drying felt or wool.
   
10. HEADGEAR HAIR PROTECTION – many hats are made of felt and wool. Simply tie your hair with a satin scarf or cover it with a satin/wig cap before apply your headgear.

Enjoy your stylish mini skirts and shorts. The cold weather is coming in fast and for some, it's already in full force.

– Keep it Naturally Kinky

REVIEW | Morfose Thermal Guard Serum & Hair Mousse

I received the Morfose Thermal Guard line of products for review this summer. I must admit that I wasn't expecting much regarding performance. I got it from someone with straight hair who raved about the product so I was skeptical to say the least. What got me curious is that the Argan oil-infused line is specifically created for protecting your hair against heat styling (which I do regularly). Here is how I used the products and how they worked.

Morfose Thermal Guard Serum

MORFOSE THERMAL GUARD SERUM – 5/5

Usage
This product was used for my blow-outs on transitioning hair. I used it on damp, towel-dried hair.

Results
Can I give this product 20 stars?! I've never had a heat protectant work this well in my hair. I'm a few months into using this thing and I have never, EVER, had a split end or needed a trim and I use heat regularly.

It also gives amazing slip (is smooth and silky) and aids in detangling. The product is very light and leaves your hair very light as well without frizz.

You don't need a lot of this product so it will last you quite a while. My hair feels very strong, soft and moisturised once I've finished drying my hair and it maintains that way for at least 7 days until my next wash. (I still moisturise and seal my hair every 2 days).

Natural? 
No, but it is infused with Argan oil. I really don't care if the product is not natural if it works and this one works.

Stylist Review
I typically wash and blow-dry my hair before going to my stylist. She was amazed. She actually plans to buy it herself to try out on her clients because she'd never felt transitioning hair feel so silky and strong after blow-drying.

MORFOSE THERMAL GUARD HAIR MOUSSE  3/5

Usage
I tried to use this product on dry hair in an attempt to do a twist-out.

Results
It didn't work out. This left an almost sticky feel and is more like a light spritz.  It said that it can be used on wet or dry hair but water is the first ingredient and it did make my hair pretty damp. I wouldn't really use it for a straight style. Of course, because of the water, it cause my hair to puff up a bit.

While my hair didn't feel excessively dry, I'd definitely probably pair another moisturiser with it if I wanted soft, supple hair (which always my aim). It's a moose. I guess if you have relaxed hair or want to do roller-sets, this can work for you. Still, however, I highly recommend applying it with a creamy moisturiser first. I do plan to try this product on dry misted hair to achieve a braid-out on transitioning hair.

WHERE TO BUY IT
Fontana Pharmacy in Jamaica or www.morfose.bigcartel.com.

I'll be reviewing the entire line of Thermal Guard products so stay tuned by subscribing at http://tinyurl.com/6s2rll9.

Watch my video review of the Morfose Thermal Guard Mousse and Serum products in the video below.

Q&A Tuesday | #AskFelicia Edition – Shampoo Tips

Welcome to a special Question & Answer series featuring celebrity hair stylist, Felicia Leatherwood.

Celebrity Hair Stylist, Felicia Leatherwood in Jamaica

Felicia was recently at an event in Jamaica hosted by the Nettle & Moss store. She answered a ton of questions and this series which will run from now through the end of November will share the questions and answers from the event.

QUESTION

How often should I shampoo?


#FELICIA SAYS

Felicia suggested washing your hair once a week. She also suggested that you cowash in between washes if you exercise daily. She did, however, stress the need to wash all the dirt and gunk out of your hair using shampoo or even an apple cider vinegar rinse if you are anti-shampoo but you need to cleanse regularly.

Felicia also gave a great natural hair tip. Apply your shampoo to your scalp instead of your hair strands. Unless you use a lot of product on your hair, it doesn't need as much shampoo as you think and will save you a lot of money on shampoo. Let the shampoo sit on your scalp a bit longer. (This is especially great if you have dandruff). It gives it the shampoo more time to work.

Stay tuned for more #AskFelicia editions of Q&A Tuesday for the month of November.

PROFILE | Jeon Adams of "Just Jeon"

Jeon Adams

Name: Jeon Adams
From: St. Vincent & the Grenadines
Owner of:  Just Jeon
Natural Since:  September 12th 2010

KiK:  Why did you go natural?
Jeon: I went natural because I didn’t like my hair, it was breaking, thin, and brown in colour overall I couldn’t maintain my hair because I was going to University at the time.

Jeon wearing braids extensions while transitioning to natural hair

KiK:  Did you transition or do the big chop?
Jeon: I actually did both transition for four months then did the big chop myself. Never visited a hairdresser since. ☺

Jeon after her big chop.

KiK:  How did your family and friends respond to your change?
Jeon: I was away from most of my family and friends so they were shocked by what I did. I didn’t plan on doing the big chop, after I took out my braids I couldn’t comb it and there was a good bit of new growth so I decided to cut it.

Jeon looks like the picture of a proud natural-haired Caribbean woman

KiK:  What is your natural hair regimen?
Jeon: Wash every two (2) weeks. Use natural oils (jojobo oil, olive oil, coconut oil). I keep them moisturized with a moisturizer and water using a spray bottle and cover each night with silk cap.

KiK:  I always have in a protective style mainly two strand twist and twist outs.
Jeon: When I wash my hair I air dry never use heat or blow dryer.

KiK:  What is your favourite hairstyle that we are most likely to see you in?
Jeon: Twist out

KiK:  What is your nightly hair routine to maintain your hair?
Jeon: Apply moisturizer and cover with a silk cap

Jeon is all business with accessories from her line in hand

KiK:  Tell us about Just Jeon.
Jeon: Just Jeon” is an accessory line that seeks to create unique pieces from items from nature and items found in and around your home.  Just Jeon’s creative pieces include clutches, handbags, veils, earrings, bows, bow ties and bracelets.

Models carrying Just Jeon handbags

Birthed out a love for crafts and fashion "Just Jeon" seeks to create pieces of Art from ordinary items that you can find in and around your home. "Just Jeon" was started on January 29, 2012.

Model carrying a Just Jeon handbag

KiK:  Why did you start it and how did the logo come about?
Jeon: I started Just Jeon because I wanted to showcase my personal style and creativity when it comes to fashion.

 I give the concept to my friend Adono Bramble a graphic designer of Kong Art Creationz and he did such a fantastic job!

Models wearing Just Jeon accessories

KiK:  Thanks for doing this interview Jeon! Where can we find your products?
Jeon: Facebook Page: “Just Jeon”

Aquayla From Texas and Her Coloured Natural Hair

Aquayla with brightly coloured natural hair

Name:  Aquayla Gadsden

From:  Houston, TX

Natural Since:  April 5, 2012

Day Job:  Medical Transcriptionist (working from home)

Aquayla with brightly coloured natural hair in multiple tones

KiK: Why did you go natural? 

Aquayla: Well I guess in my own way I always wanted to go natural, but I never actually knew what natural was. I loved seeing girls with curly hair. My favorite was Freddi (Cree Summer) who played on “A Different World”. I didn’t realize that my hair could be curly too if I stopped putting relaxer it. LOL. One day I was on YouTube and I ran across a natural hair video, then I watched another, and another. I was inspired and excited. I transitioned and then did my big chop. The rest is history…

Cree Summer of "A Different World Cast"

KiK: How do you color your hair? 

Aquayla: I color my hair at home. I’ve been coloring my hair since right out of high school. If I’m using permanent colors, I’ll use Clairol’s Textures and Tones because its ammonia-free which is safer for the hair. If I’m taking my hair to a bright color, I usually have to bleach it first. I use a 30 volume bleach (usually the Manic Panic Lightening Kit). After I get it to a blonde, I’ll add a colorful rinse on it. My favorite are the brands Special Effects and Manic Panic. I also stay away from styling products that have color in it so it won’t react with or dull my bright-dyed color….this also includes brown clays.

Aquayla with brightly coloured natural hair in multiple tones

KiK: How often do you dye your hair? 

Aquayla: I don’t really have a set timeframe on when I color. I just do it when the mood hits me, when the season changes or if I’m sick of seeing black roots LOL. I try to give my roots AT LEAST a two month time frame before I bleach. So far in 2013, my hair started red; then I went dark purple; then I took the front and did purple roots with hot pink on the ends; then hot pink and black; then hot pink/turquoise/purple and black; then back to hot pink and purple; and now I’m back hot pink and black. Who knows what tomorrow will bring LOL.

Aquayla with blue-coloured natural hair

KiK: Wow. LOL. That's a lot. Coloring is said to be very damaging. How do you keep your hair healthy? 

Aquayla: It can be damaging if you don’t listen to your hair. I’m not a professional hair colorist, but I listen to my hair. If you’re not sure what to do, I recommend going to a stylist who specializes in hair color. For those who are color treated, they have to get a regimen especially for their color treated hair. I deep condition my hair every week. I do protein treatments every other week. I don’t let my hair get dry or brittle. I keep my ends trimmed. I moisturize and seal. I don’t bleach over hair that was previously bleached within a 6 month period. For the most part, I try to only bleach my roots. I change my colors by changing the rinses (temporary colour that washes out over time) instead of using permanents all the times. 

Aquayla with Natural Hair Dyed Red

KiK: A lot of people say that you texture changes when you start dyeing natural hair. Do you find that your texture/curls has loosened since you started coloring? 

Aquayla: The hair that I dyed with permanent dye hasn’t changed in texture. The hair that I have bleached is slightly looser. The difference is so slight that if I put my hair in a wash-n-go, it still shrinks the same length as my unbleached hair. I don’t go higher than a 30 volume of bleach to insure that I don’t loose my curl pattern. FYI:  If you’re bleaching and you see your hair starting to go straight, wash it out IMMEDIATELY.

KiK: What is the most important thing about natural hair that you wish someone could have told you in the beginning of your natural hair journey? 

Aquayla: I wish somebody would’ve told me no matter how many different products I buy, my hair wont look like hers, or hers, or hers. My hair is an individual with different textures, kinks and coils. Take your time to get to learn her and what she likes.

KiK:Thanks for the interview ! 

Keep up with Aquayla on Youtube at  youtube.com/user/QuayTheCanaryDiamond. Also follow me on Instagram at Quaythecanarydiamond.

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Big Chop Basics Checklist

Source

It can be a very emotional time when you decide to part with your hair. I'm here to make your life a little easier when considering what to know and do to prepare for your big chop. 

Short Natural Hairstyle

BEFORE

1. Select a hairstyle and check your new growth.

The days of doing an all-over low cut are still here but you should remember that you have hairstyle options. There are tons of looks that you can try depending on your length. Ensure that you have enough new hair to create the style that you desire. Also, ensure that your texture can create the style and look you desire. You may need to consult a stylist to be sure.

2. Find a reputable barber or stylist.

Yes, your cousin could do it, but the precision that a stylist can give is matchless... and their hand is less likely to slip. If you get barber-clipper cut, your ends will be blunt and not easily stay done when plaited or twisted. Keep that in mind for the future and have a scissor cut instead if you hope to twist your hair while it's short.

3. Get references.

Does your barber do women's hair? It's not the same as a man's fade... unless that is what you're going for. Just ask him. You could also ask your hairdresser for a recommendation. One of my past stylists was nice enough to refer me to a male barber that does women's hair very well. 

$. Check him or her out.

Watch the person in action. Just say, "I'm a little nervous. Do you mind if I watch how you do someone's hair." See how he or she does other people's hair. It will help you know how more about their technique.

5. Do your research and get your products.

You don't want to go home to no styling tools do you? Research online. Uncle Google and Aunty YouTube have tons of information to share on how to maintain a big chop and keep it moisturised. Google things like, "short hair routine." Also do some research and decide on the products you will use. Ask a hairdresser or stylist who specialises in natural hair for suggestions. It really is best though to find someone online with a similar hair texture to see what works for them. 

6. Special Considerations

Are you going for a regular haircut or are you considering something... cutting edge? If you want a specific hairstyle that requires shaping, it's best to go to a hairdresser but if you want to shave and cut an intricate design into your hair, it's best to use an experienced barber. Also, you may want to find a natural hair stylist that suits you best. CLICK HERE to read about how to select the perfect stylist for you. 

Jill Scott wearing a teeny weeny Afro.

AFTER

1. Don't neglect your hair.

If you want it to look good, you have to care for it just as you would long hair. If you plan to grow out your teeny weeny afro, you want to retain your hair that you hope will become healthy ends. Right? Well, that means you have to take the best care of your short fro because your current hair represent the ends of your future. Your hair may not take as much time as before but it still requires the best care.

2. Smile with confidence. Smiling gives the impression that you are content and exudes confidence. Let's not forget that it is the ultimate pick-me-up. If you look insecure, people will be even more likely to question your choice and pressure you into relaxing or doing whatever they think is best. This style shows that you are willing to take risks and are confident in your choices. Show it with a smile and let your attitude show that you are content and happy with yourself. I'm so serious here. It really helps.

3. Get dolled up.
Short hair gives you absolutely nothing to hide behind. If you are concerned about looking too masculine, wear makeup. Sometimes a bold lip is all you need. Don't go overboard with the makeup though. It may make you look like you're trying too hard. Keep your overall look within your personal style. I highly suggest grooming your brows too – even if it's just clipping the stragglers away.  Wear feminine jewellery. Feminine earrings are fine. You don't have to go bold and bright to be beautiful. You just have to be you. Still feeling insecure? When all else fails, wear something you really love. You'll feel more confident. Also, try to dress as femininely as possible. 



That's all for now ladies.
Keep it Kinky.

How to Choose a Salon or Stylist for Your Natural Hair

Hair Salon

Like many of you, I've had my share of bad experiences while trying to find a good natural hair stylist. When looking for a new salon or stylist, here are my must-dos that will help you to make the best possible decision.

1. Check for a Cosmetology License. Not everyone can do hair. Although most cosmetology schools do not offer natural hair courses, you still want to ensure that the person knows how to be hygienic. A license also suggests that the person is business-like and serious about their work.
2.  Call. Phone calls are one of the easiest tests to do. I've weeded out many-a-stylist by just assessing their customer service on the phone. Did they answer the phone professionally? Was the music in the background too loud for the operator to even hear me clearly? Those are warning signs that they do not approach their job with the reverence it deserves. If the environment is not to your taste, just don't be bothered. You're likely going to hate the experience there and you're a paying customer so you should be a happy one too.
   
   
3. Do a Consultation. If they don't offer these, think twice. Consultations can be time consuming but it is very difficult to get to know a stylist and help them to understand your needs without first meeting them. Ask them if they use head protectant before blow-drying etc. Also, drop phrases like twist-outs and bantu knots. If they don't know what you're talking about, run away. This is your opportunity to find out whether this person is a good fit. Don't get someone who doesn't know what they are doing.
4. Ask About Products. Some of us naturals are very picky. If you want all natural products, ask for them. If they don't offer them, be prepared to buy your own and find out before hand whether they are willing to work with your demands.
5. Recommendations Please. Has anyone heard good things about the salon? Ask people who have the types of styles you want where they get their hair done. If their hair looks good, yours is more likely to look good too in the hands of their stylist.
6. Drop In. I love to do surprise visits. Sometimes I even ask for a tour. If the salon is dirty and the stylists are unkempt, this is a warning sign. I also check to see how many people are waiting. I hate salons that leave you waiting for ages. I've even asked people how long they have been waiting. Heck, I have no shame... because I have no time to waste waiting for 3 hours. We pay them for their time. Our time should be respected too.
   
   
7. Ask About Pricing. Don't spend more than you have. If the prices do not fit into your budget, move on or decide to go to the salon less frequently. Also, be sure to ask whether the price given is a starting price. Sadly, some people will want to charge you more depending on your texture. 

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Check out the latest issue of KiK Magazine HERE.

Do you have anything to add to my checklist? Please leave a comment to let me know.

Read Issue #4 of KiK Magazine Now

The latest issue is here. 

Read it now and don't forget to subscribe HERE. It's free!

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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Raw African Black Soap | Uses, Storage, Pros & Cons

100% Raw African Black Soap

Not all natural products are worth the money much less a second glance. There is a soap, however that is gaining popularity for it's natural-ness and benefits. It is called Raw African Black Soap.

Not All Black Soaps are the Same
Many companies are selling Black Soap too, but it is the  Raw African Black Soap, that has been allauded with a myriad of benefits for your skin. If you see a soap that is fully black and does nto have brown and golden tones, it is not the traditional african black soap and has probably been altered to and died which changes the chemical makeup of the product, hence, altering its benefits as well. So what is Raw African Black Soap and how does it differ from black soap?

The black soaps that look like the one above are NOT the traditional Raw African Black Soap

What is Raw African Black Soap?
Raw African Black Soap, an all-natural product that originated out of Western Africa, traditionally contains a mixture of cocoa pod ashes, plantain skin ashes and palm oil. Some also contain extra virgin coconut oil and honey. The texture of the soap is soft so a special storage method is recommended.

Raw African Black soap is not black but ranges in dark tones as shown in this image

Uses of Raw African Black Soap
The soap can be used for your entire body including your hair/scalp and your body. It is most commonly used on the face as a face mask or daily face wash. Some people add water and heat it or allow it to sit overnight in order to melt it for use as a shampoo.

Raw African Black Soap can also be used as a shampoo

How to Store African Black Soap
Raw African black soap absorbs a lot of moisture form the air which makes it very malleable. It will last longest if kept in a sealed, dry container such as a soap dish which snaps shut.  Avoid using zip lock bags etc. as you will lose a lot of product on the bag.

These travel soap containers are perfect to keep out additional moisture

Benefits of Using African Black Soap
Black soap :

• relieves oily skin
• relieves eczema and rosacea 
• mildly exfoliates the skin & helps to reduce dark spots with daily use
• reduces acne
• is great for removing makeup as it is rich in oils
• economical (a little goes a long way)
• helps to reduce premature ageing as it contains antioxidants and vitamins
• works well on sensitive skin

Disadvantages of Using African Black Soap

• Black soap can be very drying for people with ry skin or those in cold climates. This can be easily alleviated by using moisturizer after washing. I highly recommend Aloe Vera Gel.
• Black soap is lauded for it's benefits in relieving rosacea and eczema however it may need to be coupled with a moisturizer as the dryness can cause itching.

100% Raw African Black Soap can be purchased online or in Jamaican at Rêve Jewellery & Accessories in Devon House Courtyard, Kingston or Earth Elements in St. Andrew, Jamaica.