Product Review- MAC Studio Sculpt SPF 15 Foundation NC50

Hi Everyone! I hope all is well. I have been resistant to buying MAC products for YEARS! But I finally gave in and bought MAC Studio Sculpt SPF 15 Foundation in color NC50. And when I say I love this product...that's an understatement. I am so upset with myself for waiting so long to purchase one of the best foundations I have ever used! It is a medium to full coverage foundation, that is light weight and does not leave my face oily or shiny. Nor does it easy rub off easily onto my hands or clothing. (That is really important!) NC50 is one of the first foundations I've used that is extremely close to my complexion. It did not leave my face looking red (as some other brands I have tried.) It makes me still look like myself, and I love that! I appreciate MAC Studio Sculpt Foundation because I aim to look as natural as possible. A little bit of the foundation goes a long way, it goes on smooth and sets well in a few minutes. I also have fairly sensitive skin and I have not had a reaction. So I'm really excited about this product. If you have any further questions, know of any other foundations I should try or if you want to leave your personal experience with MAC products, please feel free to comment below.

So Until Next Time...

Best Wishes, Good Health and Happy Hair Growing!!!
Nelly

Product Review-Edge Control By Organic Root Stimulator

Hi Everyone! I hope you are bundling up in this cold weather. I had to share this amazing product my baby sister told me about. Its the Organic Root Stimulator Edge Control. This product does wonders on my edges. I also appreciate that it works well on both Natural and Relaxed hair. Its non flaky, gives a firm hold without the crunchy hard feel that you get when using gels, and the shine is amazing! Unlike other gels that I've used on my edges/hairline, it doesn't melt and ooze down my face. (Yes that has happen to me a number of times) And I really love the light fruity scent. I have no complaints about this product. Its cost effective, very accessible, and it does exactly what it says...Edge Control. There are some things I just don't leave home without, and folks I have added ORS Olive Oil Edge Control to that list. Try it and let me know how you like it.

Until Next Time...

Best Wishes, Good Health and Happy Hair Growing!

Nelly.

6 Months Au Naturale

Hi Everyone! I hope all is well. I have been away for a while. In my absence something very excited happened...I made my 6 months Nappiversary! YAY ME! I am so excited! Im so impressed with the amount of hair I grew and retained. Its truly been a journey but I am not at all finished. So I would like to share a few things I've learned or experienced. I hope this helps you ladies!

Tip: keep your hair moisturized, trimmed and detangled. It is so important to keep your hair from drying out in these cold months to come. Dry hair is more prone to breakage. I like to moisurize and seal with my NellyByNature Shea butter blend and a leave in conditioner. My favorite leave in conditioner so far is Kinky Curly Knot Today. Recently I've noticed that I have to moisturize and seal daily. Remember ladies a little bit of product goes a long way!

Trims are such a taboo topic. When I started my hair journey I was trimming my ends every 7 weeks. Now that my hair goal is to reach bra strap by 2013 I only trim WHEN NECESSARY. Your hair will tell you when you need a trim. My hair tends to get knots on a single strand. That's when I trim. Or if my twist outs are frizzy at the ends I trim/dust. I do not cut. I haven't cut my hair since my big chop in May. Ladies do not be afraid of a trim. Its less than 1/4 inch of hair. If you have specific hair goals such as I do...do your own trimming or hair dusting. That way you wont lose too much hair.

Detangled hair is SO IMPORTANT! Ladies, if your hair is tightly coiled, type "4" hair, it needs to stay detangled. The more detangled your hair is the better your hair styles will look. Also when detangled you don't loose as much hair while styling. Its all about retaining length ladies. Get a wide tooth detangle comb. Your hair will love you for it. How did I get my edges so slick you ask?? A product review will soon follow.

On that note family...

Good Health, Best Wishes, and Happy Hair Growing!

Nelly

Natural is Beautiful Special Guest Chris-Tia Donaldson

Hi Everyone! I hope all is well. For those who were at the Natural Hair is Beautiful Meet Up on 10-16-10, thank you for attending, and it was a pleasure meeting you. I hope you all had as much fun as Toia Barry, Cadian Carter and myself had planning the event! There was so much beneficial information. We really appreciated all the questions and feedback we received! I must say that the swag bag was such an awesome surprise. It was filled with so many awesome samples! I cant wait to try them all!!

From my swag bag of samples- I have been twisting my hair with the fabulous Jane Carter Curl Defining Cream. It leaves my hair soft and there are no flakes. This is my second day using the product so I will have a more thorough review in the near future. But so far, so good. I love it! But what I enjoyed the most was hearing Chris-Tia Donaldson speak. I cant believe I had she signed my book!!! If I haven't mentioned it before, Thank God I'm Natural is the best book that I have read regarding natural hair. If you haven't purchased Thank God I'm Natural...you must. The book is jammed packed with information, pictures and techniques that will blow your mind. I call it my "hair bible" because there are so many terminologies and ingredients that you can go back and look up. But what I've appreciated the most was the history of black hair. To know where you are going you must know where you came from. And I really appreciate the information Chris-Tia incorporated in the book. No one that has purchased this book has been disappointed and neither will you.

Thank you again Chris-Tia Donaldson and all other participants who attended the 10-16-10 Natural is Beautiful Hair Meetup.

Until Next Time..Best Wishes, Good Health and Happy Hair Growing!

Nelly.

Super Stress Suppressor

Greetings! I hope all is well. Its so important to find time to relax. Often we do not remember to take care of ourselves, because we are too busy working, commuting, being parents, and the list goes on and on. Trust me when I say I wish I was still a kid! lol. With that being said I want us to start paying more attention to ourselves. Spend some time (it doesn't have to be everyday.) Perhaps for an hour. (or three hours hehehe) enjoying some down time. Turn off the television, open a book, order take out, and light your favorite candle its time to DE-STRESS! My favorite stress suppressor is homemade facials. Yes I fell in love with my home made sugar sweet lemon and honey facial. I didn't measure out the ingredients. I just made sure that i had equal parts honey and sugar, a half a lemon and a small amount of warm water. I mixed them and started massaging the mixture in circular motions. I left it on for a few minutes. It smells so yummy and the lemon was so refreshing. I rinse my face in warm water. When I tell you my skin was so soft- that's an understatement! I followed up with some of my NellyByNature Shea butter. Not only was I so refreshed afterward I easily forgot the stresses of the busy work week. Try the facial and let me know how you like it. I will definitely continue to do more stress busting activities and so should you.

Until Next Time. Best Wishes, Good Health, and Happy Hair Growing!!!

Nelly

Natural Hair Terms

Hi Everyone! I hope all is well. I use a lot of natural hair terms everyday and at times on my blog. I get asked often what some of them mean. So here we have it. The basic terminologies Naturals use. If I missed any please put them in the comments below. This will help our newly naturals and transitioners in their Healthy Hair Journey. Enjoy!!!

2nd day hair- Hair that looks good (at least decent) when you wake up the next morning...you don't have to do much before walking out of the house. Some are fortunate enough to get 3rd and 4th day hair!

3A texture: Loose curls

3B texture: Tight curls

4A texture: Loose kinks/coils

4B texture: Tight kinks/coils

ACV- Apple Cider Vinegar (used to seal cuticle...final rinse) A hair type classification system.

APL- Refers to length-- arm pit length.

BAA: Big a** afro

Baggy method: Applying conditioner to the hair then wrapping it with saran wrap or covering it with a plastic/shower cap for an extended period of time.

BC: Big chop, when women cut off chemically processed or heat damaged ends to attain a fresh head of natural hair.

BSL: Bra-strap length

BNC- Braid-n-Curl, simply plait or braid the hair and roll the ends on rods or flexis.

Baggy - After you moisturize your hair at night, you put a shopping bag, plastic cap, shower cap on overnight.

BSS- Beauty Supply Store.

CBL- Refers to length-- collar bone length.

Cones- Are 'silicones', or ingredients found in hair care products that are not water soluble (i.e. you need shampoo to remove). Failure to wash out cones may lead to build-up, which may result in dry hair and breakage (due to suffocation of the strands).

CL: Chin length

Clarifying: Washing the hair to remove dirt, product build up or anything else that is on the follicle.

Co-wash: Conditioner wash; washing hair with conditioner instead of shampoo.

DC: Deep condition/Deep conditioner

DT or DC- Is a deep treatment or conditioner. A DT is when you leave a moisturizing (or protein based, depending on your needs) conditioner on your hair for an extended period of time, along with a heat source to aid in penetration

Dusting- Dusting your hair is a trim of 1/4and inch or less. This method is also referred to as dusting because even though your hair is being trimmed evenly, it is so little hair,that it just looks like dust on the floor.

Dry comb: Coming the hair while it is dry.

EO- Essential Oil.

EVCO: Extra virgin coconut oil.

EVOO: Extra virgin olive oil.

HIH- Hand in Hair. Its a disease that causes you to always be manipulating your tresses.

Leave-in: Or leave in conditioner; conditioner that stays in your hair throughout the day/is not rinsed out after application.

MBL: Mid back length

Nappyversary/Nattyversary - The anniversary of the day you became a natural

No-poo: Haircare regimens that don’t include the use of sulfate shampoo

ORS: Organic Root Stimulator

PJ: Product junky (may also refer to ‘product junkyism’), a person addicted to buying new hair products.

Poo: Shampoo

SL: shoulder length

Slip: Refers to the slipperiness of hair prior to detangling, which makes the process easier. Products are often spoken of in terms of whether or not they “give the hair slip.”

SLS: Sodium lauryl sulfate, a common ingredient in shampoo.

TWA: Teeny, weeny afro

No-poo- It's just that- no shampoo. Ladies who follow this routine are CG'ers and don't use cones or other heavy/oily products that may need shampoo to remove. Instead of pooing, many ladies conditioner wash, or use conditioner in place of shampoo to cleanse the scalp.

Pineappleing- a type of sleeping technique that curlies with long hair use to
preserve/protect curls overnight so that they have great 2nd day hair. You gather all of your hair in a high, but loose
pony tail at the top of your head and go to sleep on a satin
pillowcase. In the morning you take it down and shake it out gently and
all of your curls will have been preserved.

PJ- Product Junkie or someone that buys any all hair care products in sight...forever on a mission to find the next best thing.

Plopping- A quick dry method. You use a t-shirt or a curl friendly material (terry cloth towel, paper towel) to dry your hair instead
of rubbing a towel on your hair to dry it. It drastically decreases drying times.

Pre-pooing- A treatment applied prior to shampooing. It usually consists of oils and/or conditioners applied the night before the shampoo or immediately prior, with a heat source to help penetrate. This is usually performed to help the hair maintain necessary moisture during the drying shampoo process.

Sealing- Is essentially sealing moisture in the hair, specifically the ends. For sealing to be effective, you must first use a water-based moisturizer (a conditioner or cream that has water as its first ingredient), and then seal with a butter or oil. The molecules in most butters/oils are too large to pass into the hair, so they stick to the outside of the shaft, trapping in the rich goodness of the moisturizer. Reversing those 2 steps will lead to dry hair. Sealing has saved my hair.

Search and Destroy (S&Ds)- Use good lighting, and examine your ends...whenever you see a split, a crooked end or a single strand knot, I snip it out. Use hair scissors for this task . Buy a decent pair of hair scissors and ONLY USE THEM FOR HAIR TRIMS. Dull scissors will do more damage.

Slip- Used to describe how slippery a product is (usually a conditioner or detangler)... the more slip it has, the more effectively
it will coat the hair to aid in detangling.

SLS- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (found in the harsher shampoos- the main reason that CG'ers avoid poo).

TNC- Twist-n-Curl. This is my signature style. I twist the hair and roll the ends.

Transitioning - This is the period of time since one's last relaxer.

TWA- Teeny Weeny Afro

Twist Out - Two strand twist the hair, allow to dry either by air drying or sitting under a dryer, take the twists apart, and style.

Wash and Go- Simply co-wash your hair, add a styler (gel, cream) and GO.You leave the hair to air dry or dry with a diffuser. This is also seen as WnG, and W&G.

Until Next Time,

Best Wishes, Good Health and Happy Hair Growing!!!!

Nelly

Coconut Oil Hair Challenge

Hi Everyone! I hope all is well. Some readers asked what is a good oil to use. This oil is one of my favorites! Extra Virgin Coconut Oil. Yes this oil works wonders. Not only can you cook with it, its great for your skin and especially your hair. Coconut Oil has anti-fungal and antibacterial properties as well as vitamin and mineral goodness. When asked what products thicken hair, regrow bald spots and give hair a nice shine I always refer to Extra Virgin Coconut Oil. Coconut Oil has protein, I add it to all my conditioners as a light protein treatment. Those proteins strengthen the hair strand, and you will see less breakage in a short time. I know I did. I was able to grow my relaxed hair to a length it never reached in a period of 6 months. Coconut oil is apart of my daily regimen. I massage it into my scalp, stimulating the blood flow (which promotes hair growth) I also put some on my fingertips as I unravel my twists in the morning. It gives my hair a glow, I often get compliments on how healthy my hair looks. I want you to join me on my healthy hair journey by participating in my coconut oil hair challenge. I guarantee you, you will see results. I am on a 6 month challenge. Coconut Oil should be used regularly. If you want to please send me pictures of your hair journey for the next six months. Even if you do not send me the pictures I recommend that you document your hair journey. At times you may think your hair isn't growing but when you look at a picture from 3 months prior you will see the growth. I buy my extra virgin coconut oil from amazon. I use Nutiva Organic Virgin Coconut Oil. The amazon link is below.

http://www.amazon.com/Nutiva-Organic-Virgin-Coconut-15-Ounce/dp/B001EO5Q64/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1286927294&sr=8-1


Until Next Time.

Best Wishes, Good Health and Happy Hair Growing!!!!
Nelly

Homemade Hair Products!!

Hi Everyone! Lately I have been getting questions about natural products that are good for the hair. My friend sent me these wonderful homemade recipes, and now it's time for me to share them with you. Here there are in no particular order. ENJOY!


Lemon & Honey Rinse

2 Teaspoons Honey 1/4 Cup Lemon juice 4 Cups Warm water

Mix ingredients together. Wash as usual. Apply mixture thoroughly through hair. Do NOT rinse.

Honey Rinse

1 Teaspoon Honey 4 Cups Warm water

Mix the ingredients. Wash as usual. Apply mixture thoroughly through hair. Do NOT rinse.

Honey & Olive Oil Conditioner

3 Tablespoon Honey ¼ Cup Olive or Coconut Oil 1 Cup warm water- optional

Heat honey in the microwave, then add coconut or olive oil and mix well. Add to water and stir well. Work in a small amount through the hair. Cover with a cap for 30 minutes. Rinse well, shampoo. Style as usual.

Mayo Conditioner

3 - 4 Tablespoons mayonnaise (real mayonnaise, NOT salad dressing)

With hair wet or dry, cover hair with mayonnaise. Apply plastic cap for 15-20 minutes. Rinse, then style as usual.

Note: Leaving a minimal amount in the hair will keep it soft and moisturized.

Hot Olive Oil Treatment

1 - 2 Teaspoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil 1 Sandwich bag (with zip closure)

Put olive oil in the bag and zip it. Run hot water over the bag until desired temperature (DO NOT OVERHEAT!!!).Apply olive oil all over your hair. Apply plastic cap for 5 - 10 minutes. Rinse, then style as usual.

Homemade Dandruff Treatment

1/2 Cup White Vinegar 1/2 Cup Water

Mix the ingredients and stir well. Apply to the scalp. Let sit for 5 - 7 minutes. Rinse well.

Note: You can put this mixture in a plastic bottle and spray in onto the scalp for ease of use.

Homemade Citrus Hair Spray

1 Orange 2 Cups Water

Chop the orange and boil until 1/2 the original contents are gone. Strain, cool, and put into a spray

bottle. Add more water if too sticky. Refrigerate after use.

Homemade Hair Gel

1 Teaspoon unflavored gelatin

1 Cup warm water

Dissolve the gelatin in the warm water. Keep refrigerated and use as you would any hair gel. It's that simple!

ACV rinse (Apple Cider Vinegar)

2 Tablespoons apple cider vinegar 1 Quart/Liter of distilled H20

This is very good for your hair. It prepares your hair to receive all the nutrients from your conditioner or homemade recipe.

Coconut Milk Soak

Apply as much coconut milk (canned) to your dry hair

Make sure to work it in really well.

Place a shower cap (or plastic bag) or towel.

Sit under a hair dryer for 10-30 minutes

Shampoo out with a gentle shampoo and condition

LOVE THIS!!!! Your hair will smell good and feel GREAT! Please be sure the coconut milk is not expired. Yes, this product will go bad and trust me you will know it's bad.

Rosemary Honey Hair Conditioner

1/2 cup honey

1/4 cup warmed olive oil (2 tbsp. for normal to oily hair)

4 drops essential oil of rosemary

Place all the ingredients in a small bowl and mix thoroughly.

Pour into a clean plastic bottle with a tight fitting lid.

Apply a small amount at a time to slightly dampened hair.

Massage scalp and work mixture through hair until completely coated.

Place a warm towel or shower cap and sit under a hair dryer on low heat;

Sit for 30 minutes. Remove towel or shower cap; shampoo lightly and rinse with cool water. Dry as normal.

This is a great recipe to restore nutrients in your hair. Our hair endures weather conditions, styling tools and methods; we need to restore the needed nutrients to promote healthy growth.

Banana Hair Smoother

Ingredients:

1/2 banana

1 tsp. wheat germ oil

2 tsp. plain yogurt

1/4 avocado

Or...

1 banana (for mid-back length hair)

1 tablespoon honey

3-4 drops of jojoba oil

Blend banana then run it through a strainer/cheesecloth.

Mix in honey & jojoba oil.

Apply to length

Let sit for about 20 minutes.

Heat cap/shower cap or plastic bag.

This is great for controlling those split ends. The banana smoothie mix smells great and truly conditions your hair.

Clarify Hair

2 cups warm water

½ cup lemon juice = 8 tbsp

Mix together, pour over hair, massage gently. Let sit for 10 minutes, rinse out, condition and style

Lemon/Honey Rinse

1 tbsp honey

¼ cup lemon juice = 4 tbsp

4 cup warm water

After washing hair, pour over hair. DON'T WASH OUT, style as usual

Baking Soda Clarifying Treatment

1 tbsp. baking soda

2 cup warm water

Mix together, put on hair, sit 1 minute rinse out

Baking Soda Deep Conditioning Treatment

½ cup baking soda

1 cup conditioner

Mix in a bowl, rake through hair DON'T MASSAGE INTO SCALP. Put a plastic bag or cap on and leave for 1 hr or more. Rise really good. Will leave hair soft

Brown Sugar Scalp Scrub

1 tbsp brown sugar

3 tbsp conditioner

Mix and apply to scalp, in circular motions move around to exfoliate. Rinse well & shampoo, condition, etc.

Amla & Shikakai Powder

Use 4 tbsp Shikakai & 2 tbsp Amla, mixed w/ boiled water (I boiled it in the microwave). I just kept slowly adding water & mixing until became pasty. I let the mixture sit for 10 minutes. Then I washed my hair w/ it. It really cleans the hair. Even foams or soaps up. You can hear it. Try to really reach scalp and roots. Wash out really good.

Amla/coconut conditioner

2 TBSP Amla powder

1 cup of coconut milk (heated in microwave)

1/2 Cup of coconut oil, honey (I didn't measure. but I squeezed the bottle 2-3 times).

I parted and sectioned hair into thin sections and applied generously from root to end. Then just worked it through good making sure I got all my ends and hairline. Put on a plastic cap, wrapped a towel around my head 30 minutes-1 hr. Wash out w/ warm water really good.

Please Note:

oz = ounce

tsp = teaspoon

tbs = tablespoon

c = cup

Best Wishes, Good Health, and Happy Hair Growing!!!

Nelly

Weight Loss Journey

Hi Everyone! I hope you enjoyed this three day weekend!! I wanted to talk about how I was able to lose and keep off 15lbs since last July. I know you all are thinking she must be working out daily. That is not the case I just recently started adding in a few hours of cardio into my schedule. Here are my tips and tricks:

Tip One: Sharing is Caring!
When you have a craving for your favorite ice cream or that bag of chips...BUY IT! Yes buy it, but share with others around you would don't mind the additional calories. I am known for sharing a bacon egg and cheese on a roll with a coworker in the mornings. I even share candy bars, and small bags of chips. That way you satisfy your craving without taking in all those bad calories.

Tip Two: Everything in Moderation!
Portion control is key. Americans are used to large portions of meat and starch. Its so important to reduce the amount of meat on your plate and add vegetables. I personally prefer raw vegetables because they are much healthier for you. The leafier and green the vegetable the better. I enjoy collard greens, spinach, lettuce. I eat a lot of raw carrots, tomatoes, celery, cucumbers, the list goes on and on. You wont miss the meat I promise!


Tip Three: Agua...Drink it!
I read online that it makes no sense to drink your calories. Why get heavy off of soda and juice filled with high fructose corn syrup? I replaced soda with water and green tea. (unsweetened) If I need a little variety I add fresh lime or lemon. Its extremely refreshing. There are so many benefits to drinking more water. Most importantly its excellent for your hair, skin, and nails.

Tip Four: Wear Flats!
After work try getting off a few stops from your home and walk the rest of the way. Take advantage of this beautiful weather. Get outside and take in the fresh air. I enjoy long walks especially walking the Brooklyn bridge with my hubby. Not only is it romantic, and free, you are burning calories.

So I hope these tips help you in your healthy hair journey. I'm half way through my weight journey. I have 15 more pounds to lose. As colder weather approaches I will have to change some of my tactics but I will keep you all posted. Below is a recent picture of myself, my husband and Mike Phillips, (the best alto sax musician alive) Yes I am a HUGE Fan!

Until Next Time...
Best Wishes, Good Health, and Happy Hair Growing!!

Nelly

Two Months of Naturalness!

Hi Everyone! I hope you are enjoying this awesome summer! I have learned so much since my big chop. I want to share what has been working for me. Tip #1 If you want your hair to grow...Leave it alone. Yes i know it sounds strange but it works. The less manipulation- the more length you can retain. I currently wear my hair in a chunky fro. When going to bed my hair is in big twists. I detangle mostly by hand. I noticed within a month that my hair had significantly grown. Tip #2 Keep your hair clean. I like to shampoo my hair twice a month and co wash (conditioner wash) twice a month. The cleaner my hair is the less tangled it becomes. Dirt can get trapped into your coils and become hard to remove, the best way to eliminate such problems is to keep your hair and scalp clean. Tip #3 Detangle Detangle Detangle. I like to finger detangle while I have conditioner in my hair, such as Knot Today by Kinky Curly or Hello Hydration by Herbal Essence. Take your time, if you rush through your detangling process you will lose more hair than you need to. This has been working for me. If you have some pointers/tips that work in your hair growth process please list them below. Until Next Time....

Best Wishes, Good Health, and Happy Hair Growing

Nelly

Cinnamon and Honey Hair Lightener

Hi Everyone! I hope all are in good spirits today! I have been thinking about coloring my hair for a while. My only concern was damaging my newly natural hair with harsh chemicals (dye) Upon asking women who have colored their hair and researching the topic on You Tube I found that most women say their hair is dryer than normal and others have said that their curl pattern is different after the application. I came across natural ways to lighten your hair on You Tube. And I chose to go with the Cinnamon and Honey Hair Lightener. I used VO5 conditioner, at least 4 tablespoons of ground cinnamon and equal parts of honey. The amounts that you choose to use depends on the thickness and length of your hair. I left it on for 12 hours. It took several washes to get all the cinnamon out. To my disappointment I saw no difference in my hair color. However my husband loves how my hair smells. Next time I will try to lighten my hair with lemon juice and see if that works. Until next time...
Best Wishes, Good Health and Happy Hair Growing!

Nelly

One Month Natural

Hi everyone! How quickly the time flies! It has been one month since my big chop. During this month I have been trying different products and techniques. I will post some product reviews soon. It has truly been a month of trial and error. Im learning what to do and (definitely) what not to do. lol You Tube has become so useful as i learn how to style my twa. I'm also pleased to say that my hair is growing. Yes! I have been thinking about coloring my twa (tiny weeny afro) this summer, I will let you know if i will go through with it. The key to healthy hair is patience. There are no miracle growth products on the shelf. You have to do research (find out what is good for your hair) and stick to your regimen. I find that my hair oil and TruNatureByNelly Shea Butter Blend is essential!! But you must be consistent and patient with your hair. Be proud of your hair no matter what. Cherish it and others will also. Until next time...
Good Health, Best Wishes and Happy Hair Growing!!
Nelly

Love who you are!

Hi Everyone! I hope all is well. I wanted to let you know that Tuesday June 29th makes one month of me being natural! Im so excited. I have so many excellent posts to come. But I had to stop by and say to all my lovely ladies...Love who you are. I really mean it! We must embrace who we are, and be 100 percent confident with what we have to offer before anyone else can love us. Too many of us seek approval and love from all the wrong places. Love who you are and everyone else will follow.It doesn't matter if your skinny or of a larger size, Relaxed hair or Natural, we have to find peace and joy from within. So today ladies, start appreciating yourself, because I certainly do. On that note...we will meet up again soon!
Best Wishes, Good Health and Happy Hair Growing!!!
XOXOXO
Nelly.

Au Naturale!

Hi everyone! I did my big chop. I transitioned since Dec 09. I am finally natural! I can't believe how thick my hair is. Such a big difference! I love my tight coils it has personality already! I really enjoyed my transitioning phase. I tried kinky twist, flexi rod sets, headwraps, wigs, and braid outs. Unfortunately I had to big chop early because my hair was really tangled. If you are still transitioning the best advice I have for you is to detangle properly! Its so important! I look forward to continuing my healthy hair journey with you. I will be doing reviews on hair products and putting up different styles I will try. Any suggestions and comments are always welcomed.


Best Wishes, Good Health and Happy Hair Growing!!

Best Natural Cleanser-Distilled White Vinegar

Hello family, I hope all is well with you. I was in the middle of washing dishes and had to come share this tip with you. I was told that vinegar is a very good natural cleaning product-I've used it in the past (washing mirrors at my moms house) But today I decided to add it to my dish water. My dishes are so clean, no streaks...I just love it! Vinegar is my new alternative to bleach. I have a cat and I don't like to use harsh chemicals around him so using vinegar is such a find! I bought a spray bottle and decided to add vinegar, water, and a few drops of lemon essential oil. It is working so well. Another benefit to using vinegar is that it is so much cheaper! A large bottle of white distilled vinegar costs $1.00. And my hands feel so soft! Did I say I'm in love with vinegar? Because I am! Lets go over the benefits one more time for emphasis: 1) Natural 2) Inexpensive 3) cuts grease 4) leaves skin soft 5) Multipurpose cleaner. 6) most importantly-its not a harsh chemical. Check out the below website for more information.

http://www.vinegartips.com/scripts/pageViewSec.asp?id=7

Until Next Time...Best Wishes Good Health and Happy Hair Growing!!!!

Nelly

Head Wraps!!!!

Hey!!!! I hope all is well. I wanted to tell you that I am in love with head wraps!!!!! Yes I cant get enough of them! They are so so comfortable. I feel at ease while I'm wearing them. You can dress them up with big earrings and accessories. I've added a touch of Nelly-my signature flowers. I received so many compliments. So far I only have solid colors. I would like to get some sophisticated print head wraps in the future. The head wraps helped me tremendously during this transitional phase. Try a head wrap...trust me, you won't be disappointed! Until next time....

Best Wishes, Good Health and Happy Hair Growing!!!

Protective Hairstyles

This month’s favorite protective hairstyle is my Monica Half Wig By Outre. This half wig is very full. The curls are so soft. It didn’t shed a lot (a big plus!!!) And it looks natural! I ordered it in a number 1B (dark brown) Its about 16 inches long. I wore it for the first time a few days ago, and received so many compliments. I dressed it up with a flower and wore it to the side. I would definitely recommend this half wig for those who like to give their hair a rest. Overall I give this half wig two thumbs up!!! Until Next Time...

Best Wishes, Good Health, and Happy Hair Growing!!!

All About My Hair Regimen!

Now that I am transitioning to natural there will be some updates soon! But here is my regimen as of today.

1. Moisturize and Seal my ends daily.
My moisturizer consists of :
Water
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Rosemary Essential Oil
Tea-tree Oil, Sweet Orange Oil


All these items are kept in a spray bottle. I spray my hair lightly then seal my ends with my TruNatureByNelly Shea Butter Blend or my six-ingredient TruNatureByNelly Hair Oil.

2. Cowash once a week. (washing hair with conditioner instead of shampoo)
I cowash with Suave Naturals coconut conditioner mixed with extra virgin coconut oil and extra virgin olive oil.

3. Prepoo once a week. (pre-shampoo treatment)
I use TruNatureByNelly Hair Oil. I like to leave it in my hair for at least 3 hours. However sometimes I leave the prepoo treatment in overnight. I then proceed to:

4. Shampoo once a week with Suave Naturals Coconut Shampoo.

5. After every wash I apply my TruNatureByNelly Shea Butter Blend on my hair. It leaves it so SOFT!

6. Once a month I clarify. It is important to do a prepoo before the clarifying shampoo treatment.

(As for protein treatments- I rarely do them. If I feel like I need a protein treatment, I use Mane and Tail Shampoo and or Conditioner or Aphogee Shampoo.)

7. I deep condition every other week. I use Herbal Essence Hello Hydration or Queen Helena Cholesterol Hair Conditioning Cream.

I hope this helps! Until next time...Best Wishes, Good Health, and Happy Hair Growing!!! - Nelly

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To Chop Or Not to Chop?

HHGers... An excellent question was posted below by one of our readers. The question was: “Where do i start? I'm thinking of cutting my hair really short and starting all over. It's so dry and damaged since I've moved here. I haven't been to the hair dresser in over 2 years. So what would you suggest as a starters package?”

The question touches on a few posts that I am planning to make, but to answer the question I have to start by saying, “Everyone's Hair Journey is Different!” What does that mean? Well it means that everyone has the option of doing their hair journey the way they want to. Some ladies decide to cut it all off at the beginning (The Big Chop). Others decide to keep growing their hair, while gradually cutting the damaged ends off. Still others decide to transition for as long as they feel like while managing two textures.

I've decided (for now) to continue growing my hair while gradually cutting away my ends. But what works for one may not work for someone else. I do see the difference in my hair. Its a major improvement. I don't mind cutting away my ends because I can tell that my hair is growing longer and thicker.

It's so empowering to learn how to take care of your own tresses. Yes! I've enjoyed learning what my hair likes and what it doesn't. I know no one will care for my hair the way I do. I do however treat myself to salon visit a few times a year (who doesn't love to sit back and relax while someone else styles your hair for you?!)

So ladies...Whether your natural or relaxed...have long hair or short hair. Lets make it our aim to have healthy hair.

Best Wishes, Good Heath, and Happy Hair Growing!!! - Nelly

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Try Going RAW

Hi Everyone! Healthy hair comes from the inside out! Incorporating more fresh fruits and vegetables into your diet will help you achieve that healthy hair you want. My husband and I like to do the raw diet-one week out of every month. The raw diet is very simple. You eat only raw fruits, nuts, and vegetables. Like all diets (lifestyle changes) the first day or two is challenging...but rewarding. You become attuned with your body. Everyday I eat a large portion of raw sliced carrots. Carrots are packed with vitamin A and antioxidants with stimulate hair growth.

Cucumbers help give your hair a nice shine and aids in hair growth. Cucumbers have silica (not to be confused with the desiccant silica gel, which should not be ingested) which restores and strengthens connective tissues (muscles, tendons, bones, cartilage, and ligaments.) It is also noted that silica is good for hair growth, complexion, skin elasticity, and fingernails. Keep the peel or slice it or make a drink out of it. Your hair and skin will thank you for it!!

Adding new and interesting fresh foods to your menu keeps your palette from getting bored. And it's fun. Try buying avocados, bananas, grapes, kiwi, watermelon, bean sprouts, soy beans, etc. Again your hair, skin, nails and body will thank you over and over again.

Best Wishes, Good Health and Happy Hair Growing!!!

Nelly

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Nelly by Nature!!!

Hey Everyone! I'm so proud to announce that Nelly By Nature launched its line of natural products!!! Yes!!! Check it out! The line includes a light, nourishing essential Hair Oil, and a unique blend of moisturizing elements and natural oils that comprise Nelly's Shea Butter Cream. Here are just a few ways that you can use these *fabo* products:

* Facial Moisturizer
* Body Moisturizer
* Daily Hair Moisturizer
* Massage Oil
* Hot Oil Treatments

Use TruNatureByNelly Shea Butter Cream on your ends and it will keep them well moisturized and eliminate split ends. Use TruNatureByNelly Hair Oil or Shea Butter Cream on your fingertips and massage it into your hairline and nape to regrow loss/damaged edges! And yes there are many more uses for these products! Feel free to leave your comments and suggestions below. You can also contact Nelly By Nature at trunaturebynelly@gmail.com. Get your twitter updates at http://twitter.com/NellysTruNature. Best Wishes, Good Health, and Happy Hair Growing!!! - Nelly

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Hair Not Growing??? Maybe It's Your Comb.

Hi Friends and Family!!!
I hope all is well. I wanted to share something that changed my hair journey for the better... A detangling comb! Yes it works! A small toothed comb does not glide through our hair. It takes effort and your hair pays the price. Our ends are so fragile, using a small toothed comb makes your hair over time fall out. When you get your next touch-up or do a length check pay attention to your ends and see if they are thin, uneven, or translucent (if you can partially see through them.) That means your ends are damaged, you will need to repair them or...possibly clip them. Using a detangling comb or a wide toothed comb aids in your healthy hair journey. I recommend that if you are using a small toothed comb regularly, please replace it with a wide toothed or detangling comb. You will not be disappointed! It is vital to know how to comb through your hair. Start at your ends and gently work your way to your roots. If you have a tangle or knot stop and detangle gently with your fingers (finger detangle). By doing so you will keep your hair length. How do you detangle? Share your techniques and suggestions below. Best Wishes and Happy Hair Growing!!!!

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Loving My Healthy Lifestyle Change!

Hi Friends and Family,

Don't you love it when you find blogs that have USEFUL information? Over the past year I've learned so much about taking care of my hair. I want to share my healthy hair journey and healthy lifestyle change with you. I will be giving my opinion on certain topics and reviews on items I have tried and on some that I will try in the future. Please feel free to comment and ask questions or suggest things that I should try/review. I'm hoping that my healthy journey can be an inspiration to you all. Thank you for joining me on this journey. Luv yah, Nelly!

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