This week’s feature is a fellow Motown native, who has since transplanted to the ATL, Ms. Danielle Tillman. I’ve known Dani since my beginning Blogging days at Xanga, and was there at Ground Zero when she made her decision to go natural. To have watched her progress from start to present has been one of the biggest inspirations for me to start my own journey, and wanted to share her story with you. So here it is, in her own words.

Idadi: How long have you been natural?

Danielle: It’s been 4 years since my last relaxer and 3 years since I chopped.

Idadi: What prompted your switch?

Danielle: There were a few factors… I had been natural most of my life and I realized that my relaxed hair wasn’t thriving. After doing some research and being persuaded by a friend, I decided to take the plunge.

Idadi: How did you make your transition?

Danielle: I wore braids w/ extensions, kinky twists, braidouts and wash n’ gos. My hair was more texlaxed than relaxed, so it was easier to blend the textures.

Idadi: What styling/care products and regimen did you start out using?

Danielle: Hmm… I used a Pantene’s Hydrating Curls Conditioner for conditioner washes. For styling I used Paul Mitchell Foaming Pomade and Sculpting Foam.

Idadi: Are they the same now?

Danielle: No… I realized how drying the Paul Mitchell products were when used everyday. I now use a creamy leave-in conditioner and Fantasia IC gel (clear kind) for styling and hold. Other products I use for maintenance and style are Organix Coconut Milk Conditioner as a leave in along with the Fantasia IC Gel, Organix Coconut Milk- Coconut Serum and Self-Heating Coconut Oil. Wonderful products… pricey but worth it.

Idadi: How do you maintain your hair and facilitate growth now?

Danielle: My hair really responds to less is more. I do cowashes [conditioner washes] several times a week, and depending on how much product I use, I wash w/ shampoo no more than once a week. I prefer once every two weeks. When I use heat I make sure to use a heat protectant and pay attention to my ends.

Idadi: What are the various styles you’ve experimented with, and which would you say is your favourite?

Danielle: I’ve done twists, twistouts, braidouts, wash n’go’s, puffs, ponytails, updos, buns, roller sets, and straightened hair w/ curls. My favorite style is my wash n’ go because it’s low maintenance and if I take my time it looks wonderful.

Idadi: How did you overcome the overwhelming stigmas surrounding “black hair” in order to go natural?

Danielle: To be honest, I didn’t experience a lot of the stigma, because when I went natural several of my peers on campus were going natural as well. The process for me was more internal. I had to learn to love myself and not worry so much about what everyone else thought. I had to accept myself, and once I did that I didn’t really care what others were thinking when they saw me. Plus, my family and most of my friends were supportive once they got over the initial shock of me having short hair.

Idadi: What have you liked most about the process?

Danielle: I love how I can change my hair up on a regular basis by simply adding water.

Idadi: What have you like least?

Danielle: The challenges that come with learning what works for my hair at different stages. The longer it gets, the more frustrating it can be at times.

Idadi: How do you balance classes, work, and hair maintenance?

Danielle: I wear my hair in a wash n’go or a puff 75% of the time, so my hair maintenance doesn’t tend to get in the way of my everyday life.

Idadi: What are the hair products you absolutely can’t live without and would highly recommend?

Danielle: Fantasia IC gel and a creamy conditioner.

Idadi: How much differently, and in what ways, do you view your hair now, as opposed to when it was relaxed?

Danielle: I view my hair as an extension of my personality. There are many sides to me, and because my hair is natural I can change my style to reflect the different sides of me as well.

Idadi: Ever experienced one of those days where it seemed so much easier to just slap on a relaxer? How did you get past it?

Danielle: Every now and then, when my hair is unbelievably tangled or when the humidity hits my straightened hair, I want to relax it; but I remember the scalp burns and the upkeep and change my mind. Not to mention there are tons of black women who are natural on message boards to talk me out of it.

Idadi: What were your greatest sources of support through the journey?

Danielle: Online message boards and other friends who were going through the process.

Idadi: I recall you being featured on the Motowngirl.com site some years back. How did that come about?

Danielle: I sent the owner a message about being the feature, because I frequented her site regularly and wanted to help someone just like she had helped me.

Idadi: Are you currently and active member of any other natural hair communities?

Danielle: No… I do frequent message boards but the one that I participate in the most is dedicated to healthy long hair (relaxed or natural).

Idadi: Do you style your hair yourself most often, or leave it in the hands of a professional?

Danielle: Umm… I’m a broke Grad student, so I do it myself most of the time… professionals on special occasions.

Idadi: If you had it all to do over again, what, if anything, would you change about your natural hair journey?

Danielle: I would have experimented with more styles when my hair was shorter. I stuck to puffs and wash n’go’s and I missed out on the styling options for shorter natural hair. I also wouldn’t have worn extensions throughout so much of my transition. Doing so hindered me learning more about natural texture earlier.

Idadi: Any advice for others considering going natural?

Danielle: Make your decision for you, not for anyone else or because it’s a trend. Embrace your natural self and don’t let anyone make you feel like something is wrong with you because of your decision. It’s really an internal mental process. I know some people think that you should just chop it and be done with it, but I honestly believe that transitioning is the best decision. It gives you time to truly embrace the change taking place, not just on your head but inside as well. Oh, and don’t be like me and wear extensions throughout most of the transition, because it will be an even bigger shock.

~@~

Dani’s Progress in Pictures

(click each image to enlarge)

Would you like to hear more from Danielle? You can contact via her Website at www.academicbutterfly.blogspot.com or her MySpace page at www.myspace.com/umblessedbeauty_1. You may also view more of Danielle’s progress pictures via her Fotki at www.public.fotki.com/UMBlessedBeauty1, password mahogany.

###

Danielle, it has been an honour and a pleasure to feature you and your long, lovely locks. As I said in the intro, your progress has inspired me, and Adah, to remain on the natural path. I’m sure sharing your words here will do the same for others.

Healthy Hair Wishes,

NOTE: All pictures used are property of the individual persons featured, unless otherwise noted. All right reserved.

We’re back, and the results are in!

Recipes are rated on a scale of 1 – 5 Afro Picks… 1 being the lowest rating, and something I would not use again or recommend, and 5 being the highest rating of something I’d most likely use again within the next five minutes. *lol*

And heeeeeeeeeeeeere we go…

No Poo-ing =

I’ve read more than once that it can take awhile for your hair to get used to the process, so I can’t accurately say I don’t like it. My scalp is clear of the build up that usually covers it between washes, which I guess is the main premise.

To apply I used the method normally used to apply relaxer, and generously applied the mixture to the part in my hair. I can’t say that I followed the “circle” instructions to a T, but I did gently massage the mixture onto my scalp using a circular motion. Because the baking soda mixture kept drying back into power form, it was extremely helpful to have my spray bottle available to re-wet my scalp periodically. Unlike with commercial shampoos, I could actually see the dead skin cells and other grime leave my scalp each time I sprayed small amounts of water onto my hair. Not that that’s something I’d stay home to watch on a Saturday night, but I guess it can be as proof that no poo’ing does what it’s supposed to do.

All in all, the recipe was simple to mix, simple to use, and effective. As it stands now, the no poo method would not be something I’d do on a regular basis, but I would not count it out as an alternative to commercial shampoo, for the “green” minded. I would recommend it.

***

Avocado and Coconut Conditioner =

OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOH my goodness! Oh. My. Goodness. No seriously… ohmygoodness! *lol* I love this stuff! Simple ingredients that are way easy to mix, and smell absolutely divine! After applying the heavenly goo upon my tresses, I covered it with a plastic shower cap, covered that with my towel, and waited the required fifteen minutes. Upon rinsing I noticed thicker coils and waves, and the fact that my hair WAS NOT tangled when I ran my hands through it. Very pleased with that.

My hair was not as “silky” feeling as it is with commercial conditioners, but it was soft and relatively manageable upon rinsing. A word of warning, however. If you naturally have thick hair and you’re looking to sport a nice “lay down” or “wrap around” style where your hair lays and allows itself to be styled… you might not want to try this recipe. This is a straight up volumizing conditioner, that will give your hair so much body you might not know what to do with it! Ideal for sistahs who are loc’ing, twisting, or fro’ing, or for those with limp tresses who desire more thickness. The mixture does leave the hair with a slight oily feel, so I do not recommend adding any additional oils. Also, unless you use a blender to mash your avocado, be prepared to do a loooooooooooooot of rinsing of pulpy bits.

The recipe, as I found it, it good for at least two applications, with the leftover mixture being able to be stored in the fridge for as long as you would ordinarily keep an avocado based food. I HIGHLY recommend this recipe.

ADDITION 31 May 2008 @ 08:40

I’m finding myself having to lightly press my hair to relax the kink, because the thickness was a bit more than I desired for today.

(left side pressed – right sight unpressed)

This might be managed next time by adding less coconut milk in the recipe, or using a “lite” variety. We shall see.

***

Gentle Facial Cleanser =

It seems I am batting 1000 with the facial recipes, and this one here may end up being my cleanser of choice for the duration. Almost effortless to mix, and way easier to apply that the honey and oatmeal recipe, this concoction is soothing to the skin, and smells great! I came away with soft glowing skin, visibly smaller pores, and only a slight feeling of tightness as my face dried. Moisturizer afterward? Nope, not even a light coating!

Any unused mix can be refrigerated for as long as the yogurt’s sale by date suggests. Recipe can be adjusted for oily skin by adding cucumber, and for dry skin by adding a bit of olive oil.

As you might can guess, I highly recommend this recipe and implore you to use it RIGHT NOW! *lol*

***

Banana Wrinkle Fighter Mask =

Honestly, does good skin care get any easier than this? Get a banana, mash it up and slather it on your face. No fuss, no muss, and you walk away with a clear, smooth, and balanced complexion women spend part of their life savings to attain… For less than $1 per pound! The Universe certainly got its “money’s worth” when it created the banana, I’ll tell you. Good on the inside and outside!

Applied and left on for the required time and barely knew it was there (despite the fact that I knew it was there). Rinsed with hot, splashed with cold, patted dry and went on about my merry way. No toner or moisturizer needed.

While I am blessed to not need a “wrinkle fighter” mask, and hopefully won’t for a nice long while, I do plan to use it periodically to keep the tautness of my skin.

Another highly recommended recipe!

###

And there you have it. Another In the Mix Friday comes and goes, and I have enjoyed every last minute of it. As I suggested on last week, if you plan to use any of these recipes, you might want to play around with the ingredient amounts to find the mixture that gives you the best results for your hair type and condition. If you do try any of the recipes out, I’d love to hear your results. You can leave a comment here or send them to me via Email at amichelle@journeyback2me.com.

I wish you happy experimenting and healthy hair!

Healthy Hair Wishes,

Welcome once again to In the Mix Fridays, were we step into the Journey Test Kitchen and try some homemade hair and care products on for size. In last week’s session we had some hits and misses, but in general I had a pretty good time playing pseudo-chemist and experimenting.

For this week I’m working the seemingly popular avocado, the very versatile banana, and a bit of plain yogurt. I’ve had this one particular recipe following me around for the last couple of weeks, so I figured I’d give it a shot. In addition to that, I wanted to try out the “no poo” process from yesterday’s Journey Guest Spot, and see how well that works with me.

So without any further ado…

The No-Poo Method

~ 1 tbls. baking soda

Water

2 tbls. apple cider vinegar w/ equal parts water

Dissolve baking soda in just enough water to make a paste. Apply this to your roots only.; work it in and let it sit for a minute.

Using your finger tips, scrub your scalp, starting by making a circle on the top of your head in the area you’d wear a crown. Focus on the back of this circle to begin with. Next, fill in the circle, where your part would be. Trace your fingertips around the bottom edge of the circle, while still scrubbing. Lastly, scrub the back of your skull and your temples/sideburns.

Next, combine the apple cider vinegar with water. After rinsing the baking soda out, pour the apple cider vinegar mixture over the ends of your hair, let it sit for a minute and then rinse it out.

***

Avocado Conditioner

1 whole avocado

1 cup of coconut milk

Mash avocado thoroughly and then slowly mix with the milk and stir until it resembles a thick mixture. Cover hair allow to set for15 minutes, then rinse completely.

~@~

And now for this week’s facial recipe:

Gentle Facial Cleanser

1/2 c. oatmeal

2 tbls. plain yogurt (enough to make a paste)

Combine ingredients, smooth over entire face, avoiding the eye area. Allow to sit for 10 minutes then rinse.

***

Banana Wrinkle Fighter Mask

1/4 banana

Peel and mash banana until very creamy. Spread all over face and leave for 15-20 minutes before rinsing off with warm water followed by a dash of cold. Gently pat dry.

###

And off I go to get my experimentation on. See ya’ll on the flip with the results!

Healthy Hair Wishes,

*** Partial Source List: SkinCareRecipesandRemedies.com, and HomeMadeBeautyRecipes.com.

I’ve read about the “no poo” phenomenon, and am considering taking the challenge myself. But first, what is this “no poo” thing all about, and is it healthy? This inquiring mind wanted to know and so…

Why You Should Go No ‘Poo
By Christi Colvin

Almost three months ago, I was introduced to the idea of no longer using shampoo. I was intrigued. After looking into it somewhat, I figured I didn’t have anything to lose. So I picked up some baking soda and apple cider vinegar and then took the plunge.

I love the results! There was an adjustment period where I had to play around with the measurements a bit but I finally got the hang of it. I have straight-as-a-board, baby-fine hair that has never held a “do.” After “no ‘poo,” I don’t even have to use styling products. I just blow dry and go; my hair now keeps any style. It’s awesome!

Reality Check

You’re thinking you could never do without shampoo, that your hair would be a big oily mess — but it’s quite the opposite. It’s a supply and demand relationship, much like nursing a baby. The more your baby wants to nurse, the more milk your body produces. If you suddenly stopped nursing your baby there would be a lot of excess milk, engorgement, etc., for a while until your body returned to a state of balance.

The oily secretions of our body are very much the same. The more we strip away the natural oils, the more demand we are creating and the more oils our bodies will make. So if you stop using the surfactants cold turkey, your body will still be overproducing oil and there will be a lot of oil until your body reaches a balance again.

Do it for Your Health

The main reason to go no ‘poo is your health. The number of chemicals in shampoo and other bath and body products is frightening. Your skin is the largest organ on your body. Whatever gets put on your skin gets absorbed into your body, into your bloodstream and into your organs, as has been proven by many studies. Essentially, whatever is toxic to put in your mouth is toxic on your skin as well.

According to Jacqueline Krohn, M.D., in The Whole Way to Natural Detoxification: The Complete Guide to Clearing Your Body of Toxins by Jacqueline Krohn, MD, “Caustic chemicals, such as alkaline solutions, can also penetrate the skin. Once a chemical has penetrated the stratum corneum (the most superficial layer of skin), it moves through the epidermis and into the dermis. Then the rich blood supply of the dermis readily transports the chemical into the bloodstream.”

Chemical Content of Shampoo

Following are just a small sample of the toxins found in most shampoos and their detrimental side effects.

Alcohol, isopropyl (SD-40) is a very drying and irritating solvent and dehydrator that strips your skin’s moisture and natural immune barrier, making you more vulnerable to bacteria, molds and viruses. It is made from propylene, a petroleum derivative, and is found in many skin and hair products, fragrances, antibacterial hand washes as well as shellac and antifreeze. It can act as a “carrier,” accelerating the penetration of other harmful chemicals into your skin.

It may promote brown spots and premature aging of skin. A Consumer’s Dictionary of Cosmetic Ingredients says isopropyl alcohol may cause headaches, flushing, dizziness, mental depression, nausea, vomiting, narcosis, anesthesia and coma. A fatal ingested dose is one ounce or less.

FD&C color pigments are synthetic colors made from coal tar, containing heavy metal salts that deposit toxins onto the skin, causing skin sensitivity and irritation. Absorption of certain colors can cause depletion of oxygen in the body and death. Animal studies have shown almost all of them to be carcinogenic.

Mineral oil is a petroleum by-product that coats the skin like plastic, clogging the pores. It interferes with skin’s ability to eliminate toxins, promoting acne and other disorders.

Propylene glycol (PG) and butylene glycol are petroleum plastics which act as surfactants (wetting agents and solvents). They easily penetrate the skin and can weaken protein and cellular structure. Commonly used to make extracts from herbs, PG is strong enough to remove barnacles from boats!

Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES) are detergents and surfactants that may pose serious health threats. They are used in car washes, garage floor cleaners and engine degreasers — and in 90 percent of personal care products that foam. Animals exposed to SLS experienced eye damage, depression, labored breathing, diarrhea, severe skin irritation and even death.

How to No ‘Poo

Dissolve about 1 tablespoon of baking soda in just enough water to make a paste. Apply this to your roots only; work it in and let it sit for a minute.

In order to stimulate blood flow, clean your pores and get off built up grime, use your finger tips to scrub your scalp. Start by making a circle on the top of your head in the area you’d wear a crown. Focus on the back of this circle to begin with. Next, fill in the circle. This is where your part will be; grease here affects the way your hair looks. Trace while still scrubbing with your fingertips around the bottom edge of the circle. Keep making scrubbing circles underneath each one, drawing lines in circles around your head.

Lastly, scrub the back of your skull and your temples/sideburns. This will result in less grease and more growth. After doing this, your scalp will feel alive. Many women swear their hair grows faster after a visit to the salon — it does, and this massage method is why.

When scrubbing, you’re actually rubbing your fingers back and forth in short movements. Be gentle; you don’t want to break your hair. Next, pour about 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar into a cup and add water. (I keep two plastic 12-ounce cups in my shower and just mix when I get in.) After you rinse the baking soda out, pour the apple cider vinegar over the ends of your hair, let it sit for a minute and then rinse it out. That’s all there is to it!

No ‘Poo Troubleshooting

Remember, there is a transition period from two weeks to two months depending on the person. Here are a few tips:

• If your hair becomes frizzy, try using less baking soda or leaving it on for a shorter period of time. Adding honey may also help.
• If your hair becomes greasy, try using less apple cider vinegar, switching to lemon or lime juice, leaving out the honey, and/or using a comb instead of a brush. Also, make sure you’re applying the apple cider vinegar just to the ends of your hair.
• If your scalp itches, try the following essential oils; tea tree, lavender, rosemary. If your hair becomes dry, try a tiny bit of oil (any oil, I use olive) smoothed on bottom of hair.

Ready to make the change? Sure! Don’t be afraid to go no ‘poo. You know how to do it! Enjoy the journey – you’re on your way to a healthier you!

© Christi Colvin

~@~

I found this insightful article at NatureMoms.com.

###

So what about you? Think you can “no poo”? Well I’m game to at least try and see how it pans out… quite possibly for In The Mix Friday! I’ll keep you posted. *wink*

Healthy Hair Wishes,

So yesterday I had a job interview, or more accurately, I was invited to a preliminary information sharing session for a possibly position with a company that… well… let’s just say a company I won’t be working for (full story can be found HERE). At any rate, I was very concerned about just how I should wear my natural tresses, since the company was located in a melanin deficient suburb of Toledo, and just might frown upon my wrap, my twists, or my Fro. My only alternative was to press my hair and bend the ends for the “relaxed” look I know to be “corporate acceptable”. I was somewhat apprehensive about having to go with this style, since I’d just blow dried my hair a day or so before and try to limit the amount of heat I use on my hair. But with finances on the line, and what seemed like a viable opportunity in my sights, a sistah had to do what a sistah had to do!

Here is what I started with:

Yes, I know my ends look horrible… leeb me ‘lone. *lol*

It’s been quite a minute since I attempted to curl my hair, since even after straightening my wavy roots gave my desired style more body than what I was going for. So I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. With time being of the essence, I couldn’t allow myself much room to fuss, but I wanted to make sure I achieved a straight enough texture while at the same time limit the amount of heat damage. So after perusing the pages of PressingHair.Info for the proper pressing technique, I fired up my Gold n Hot pressing comb and 1/2′ bumping iron and set upon my mission.

Prior to placing any heating implement into my hair I made sure to give it a good dose of Proclaim Professional Care colour and heat protection glossing polish to stave heat damage and calm the frizzies. The heat setting I used on the comb is 400 * F, which works best for my hair without burning, scorching, or frying my strands (PressingHair.Info recommends not using the highest setting, and using your own good judgment on the temperature that is best for your hair type). Because my hair was already semi-straight from blow drying, I only really needed to quickly pass the hot comb through each section of my hair.

NOTE: The picture is for “display” purposes only, as I was in the curling stage at this point. While I sometimes will run a warmed comb through my hair to “relax” the coil so that I can place my hair in a ponytail, when I really press my hair, I do a section at a time for the best effect.

Next came the curling, which was really more like “bumping” the ends than anything else. The heat seating on the iron is roughly around 350* F (it preset with a min and max setting… I use the max). As you can see, the substantial barrel on the iron give me sort of a “bob” style bend, which at the end of my progress, resulted in a look much like this:

Because I am in dire need of a end clip there was a great deal of “frizziness” going on that may not be visible in the pictures, but overall I think I did a decent enough job.

NOTE: One thing I do not like about the press and curl style is the hair appears shorter than what it actually is.

Once I returned from the “informational meeting” that wasn’t, I took a wide tooth feather comb to my hair and gradually released the “bumped” ends from their set to examine the length difference:

So there you have it… The very first press ‘n curl attempt of my natural life! Not something I will be going very often (once every other month if I can help it… if that), but the results are acceptable and decent.

I anticipate the press lasting a couple of days, provided I don’t somehow get it wet and wrap it nightly (or whenever I take one of my infamous naps *lol*). Although I don’t plan to bump it again the press will help with smoother wrap wearing, which will be my style of choice until In The Mix Friday rolls around. *wink*

Healthy Hair Wishes,

In honour of my first job interview in a great many years, I present to you an article about how they way you choose to wear your tresses can affect the way you’re perceived by present and potential employers. I hope you enjoy.

How Important are Hairstyles in the Workplace

Jet Magazine ~ 11-June-01

Hairstyles can say many things. They speak fashion trends, cultural statements and declarations of individuality. They can also translate into different interpretations, depending on who’s watching and where you are.

Lately, more and more people have been the victims of “bad hair days” because it seems that certain employers have become more concerned with how employees wear their hair than how well they perform on the job.

Many would venture to ask, What’s hair got to do with it? How important are hairstyles in the workplace?

Image is everything on the job and the way a person wears his or her hair does make a statement, says noted etiquette expert Harriette Cole, president and creative director of Profundities, a New York-based image and development production company.

“The first impression you make is a visual one,” she explains to JET. “It’s important to be aware of what your presentation says about you and that includes the way you wear your hair. A conservative version of your hairstyle is going to be more welcomed than one that is more artful. Unfortunately, [Blacks] have come under tremendous scrutiny because of the many different hairstyles we are able to wear.”

Cole, author of How To Be: A Guide To Contemporary Living for African Americans, says that cultural hairstyles such as cornrows (when hair is plaited close to the scalp in a pattern of cornrows), braids, twists (when hair is twisted into coils) and dreadlocks (when hair is palm-rolled and left in its natural state) are the styles most often unwelcomed in the workplace.

Men, she observes, tend to face more resistance than women in the workplace when they choose to stray from conservative hairstyles. “Traditionally men are more conservative and are expected to be more conservative. In America, regardless of race, conservative means shorter, closely cropped hair. If you go from what is the standard to something more free and expressive, it makes sense it would be a lot more resistance to it,” she says.

Janel Rankins doesn’t think that hairstyles should matter in the workplace. The 21-year-old cashier wanted a new look and didn’t think twice about having her hair colored blonde. But when she showed up for her job at the Williamsburg Inn in Williamsburg, VA, Rankins’ bosses complained that her new color was “gold orange” and distracting to coworkers and customers.

She was given a written reprimand that said she could face disciplinary action up to recommended termination if she didn’t switch to a more natural hair color.

“I’m not doing anything wrong,” argues Rankins. “I just want my hair blonde. I saw White people with blonde hair, and I liked it. I thought it would look cute on me. I love it! I plan to keep it. I’ve gotten a lot of compliments.”

She filed a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) office in Norfolk, VA, over the incident, claiming that the hotel’s appearance policies were discriminatory.

Regis C. Frazier Jr., a 31-year-old strategic market manager at FedEx Express in Aurora, IL, has wanted to wear his hair in twists for several years now. He’s been apprehensive about wearing them because of his job.

“Twists aren’t considered conservative. I work for a very conservative company,” says Frazier. “People who’ve worn dreadlocks to work have been frowned upon. So, if I wore twists, it would cause controversy. If something is different and someone doesn’t understand it, they will question it. Most people don’t understand what twists are and question [the style]. People will move from something they’re afraid of.”

City government workers recently have been making headlines all across the country because of the way they choose to wear their hair.

Willie Gafney’s crowning glory was never a major concern for him in all of his 10 years as a D.C. firefighter. Battling ravaging blazes were. But a few months ago Gafney found himself fighting to keep his near-waist-length dreadlocks. For religious reasons, a Nazarite vow he took nine years ago prevents him from cutting his hair.

Gafney was suspended when new D.C. Fire Chief Ronnie Few began enforcing a four-year-old department regulation, in March, limiting the length of beards and hair for safety and appearance reasons. Few argued that if hair is too long, firefighters will not be able to fit their hair under their fire helmets. Gafney readily showed that for a decade now he has always worn a skullcap that allows him to put his helmet on with no problems.

“I plan to fight this,” Gafney told the Washington Post. “I don’t think [Few] has the right to force his opinion on other people if it’s going to violate their religious beliefs.”

The D.C. firefighters union and the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) were considering challenging the suspensions in court, at JET press time.

Baltimore police officer Antoine Chambers, 32, says that hair doesn’t have anything to do with job duties, so he’s been battling the Baltimore police department since he was reassigned from his beat as a uniformed officer to a desk duty answering non-emergency calls because of his dreadlocks.

“You’re trying to tell me I’m not good enough to be out in the community because of my hair?” Chambers asserts. “There is a shortage of police. At the time of my suspension, homicide was at an all-time high. We need people to relieve this matter, and they are worried about my hair.”

Chambers’ Northern Division commander issued an instruction forbidding personnel from wearing locks, braids or cornrows. Chambers told police officials that his religion, Rastafarian, precluded him from complying with instruction. He was then reassigned.

“[Police officers] are required to wear a uniform cap, so you [cannot] see my hair at all. Caucasian officers wear the long French braid down their back and it’s not a problem. It’s a double standard,” says Chambers, an eight-year veteran.

“You have important issues of cultural expression and self-expression that a hairstyle can make for a person,” explains Sullivan. “Not only is it inappropriate for employers to impose restrictions of appearance on employees, but there are benefits to having people who manifest diverse cultures in the workplace. People oftentimes say they want to see someone who looks like them. There is a benefit government jobs can derive from having employees with a diverse appearance.”

COPYRIGHT 2001 Johnson Publishing Co. || COPYRIGHT 2001 Gale Group

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I found this insightful article in the business library files of BNET.com.

I was asked by a someone exactly why I felt inclined to “go against the grain” and do the natural thing. Much like my STBE, this someone assumed there was an ulterior motive motivating my decision, like a man, or a movement, or the need to belong to some sorta AA-approved cipher. After thinking on the query for a bit, I came up with this poem, which I use as my Naptural PSA/MIssion Statement. I hope you enjoy it!

It is What It Is

It’s not about
blackness
or the
Motherland
It’s not about
protests or
making a
stand
and defying
“the man”
Not about
being AA
PC
or conforming
to what others
think i should
be
cause my skin
contains melanin…
It’s not about
fitting in
or becoming one
of them
sistahs
hosting rallies
or being
ultra conscious
or hoping i’ll
be accepted
as a Rasta
because I did
this…
What it is
is a
simple
coming back to
myself
of coming home
to the wealth
that exists in
the authentic
which has been
placed upon a
shameful shelf
behind
misconceptions
of beauty
as defined by
my tresses
It’s growing
tired of
society’s stresses
determining
what beautiful is
for me
So I’m letting my
soul glow
and my hair Fro
as it grows
embracing my
coils and
curls
as they twist
free of chemical
trysts
simply
It is what
It is…

Natural

© 5/10/08

(click the image to visit site)

I happened upon this classy and classic Blog during my first week out of the hair Blogging gate, and was very impressed by the clean and concise layout. There’s a very feminine vibe at M&C that embraces you through the monitor, enticing you to kick your shoes off and stay awhile.

Beyond the pretty-ful visuals, be prepared for an onslaught of hair news you can use, such as the proper way to flat iron and the proper way to moisturize, as well as a parade of natural pride featuring inspiring model pictures (not just of the AA variety either) and even an exciting “expose” on kinky hair Barbies!

All in all, it’s a naptural-polooza, and I implore you to pay a M&C a visit, become a member, and/or subscribe to updates so you can keep up with their latest and greatest!

NOTE: The image used for this spotlight is the property of MANEANDCHIC.com. All rights reserved.

Happy exploring!

Healthy Hair Wishes,

This week’s feature is my sister from another Mister, Mrs. Evelyn D. Robinson, who you may know as Ev_e, Btrflyed, or Mrs. Fave. *lol* Again, I’m featuring on the fly, so the format is Q&A (which very well may become the format of choice), but I’m sure that will make what’s shared no less insightful.

And without further ado…

Idadi: How long have you been natural?

Eve: I’ve been natural for eight years.

Idadi: What prompted your decision to make the switch from relaxed to kinky?

Eve: I got tired of combing my hair, but I was misguided cause I did more combing when I had an Afro than I did when I had a perm. Hence the locs. *lmao*

Idadi: How did you go about making the transition?

Eve: I let my natural hair grow out for a couple months and rolled the permed ends with wave rods (also known as the Jheri Curl roller *lol*) so it always looked curly. After I had about 3 inches of natural hair, I cut all the permed ends off and wore a short Fro for about 2yrs. Then I Loc’d it.

Idadi: We all have out ghosts that keep us trapped in the relaxed hair closet. What helped you break through the “hair-erotypes” surrounding Black hair?

Eve: Uh… Sis… You should know me better than that. I could care less what people think about me.

Idadi: I know that, silly goose. But this aint for me. *lol*

Eve: Well, that’s my answer. *lol*

Idadi: *raspberry*

Eve: Okay, I’ll “clean it up”. *lol* I didn’t really let what people think bother me. I made the decision for me, and that’s what mattered.

Idadi: Did you follow any specific hair care routines or use any specific products to start?

Eve: i washed it once a week when I had an Afro, and used LottaBody when i rolled it. But once I loc’ed I washed every two to three weeks, and I made an essential oil spray that I used daily in the mornings. Since I used a latch hook to tighten my locs, I don’t require any gels or anything to hold it. I’d wet it during shower time just about every day, though. It feels so good.

Idadi: What was in the oil spray?

Eve: It’s made with water, olive oil, and the following essential oils — peppermint, chamomile, tea tree, and lemongrass.

Idadi: Why did that just make me hungry. *lol*

Eve: My husband said I smelled like fresh salad when we first met. *lol*

Idadi: Okay, I can’t remember if it was early this year or late last year, but I distinctly remember you “trading” your beautiful locs for a TWA. What brought that on?

Eve: It was last year in March. After growing my locs for over 5 yrs, I decided to cut them and start anew because of all the crazy energy in them. I went through a lot of transitions (job switch, divorce, birth of my son, loss of my great-grandmother), and for me, my hair isn’t just a style it’s a part of me. My Locs were starting to show the wear of my life at that time, so right before we buried my Great-Granmother, I took the scissors to them and wore a short Fro for a while. A couple months after I remarried, I decided to go ahead and start loc’ing again.

Idadi: Okay, if you had your journey to start over again, what, if anything, would you do differently?

Eve: Hmm… If i had to do it all over again I would have started my own the first time. I got Sisterlocks the first time and I didn’t have the best experience with my consultant. Don’t get me wrong… Sisterlocks are great. I just wish I had more options as far as consultants. But, that was 6 yrs ago. I’m sure there are plenty more people doing them now.

Idadi: So you do your own Locs?

Eve: Yes.

Idadi: When and how did you start?

Eve: November ’07. I started them using the latch hook method. Basically, you make a knot at the end of the hair, and continue with the latch hook until it’s tightened to the scalp. There are a few sites out there that break the technique down, but I learned by trial and error.

Idadi: How is the latch hook method different from starting locs from twists?

Eve: Starting from twists requires more maintenance (ie. cleaning scalp with Seabreeze vs. washing, using gels and clips, and sitting under a dryer, as well as tightening every couple weeks in the beginning). Using the latch hook eliminates the need for gels because you are essentially tying your hair in a knot with the latch hook, and that is what holds it together. Depending on the length of your hair you can wash it whenever you’d like by either putting them in rubber bands and washing gently, or using a stocking cap to keep them from being overly agitated.

Idadi: Is your care regimen the same as when you first had Locs?

Eve: Yes ma’am. I do everything exactly the same as before.

Idadi: What problems have you encountered along the natural way?

Eve: The only problem I have is making time to do my hair. *lol* I need to do it as we speak.

Idadi: What is it you love about Locs above the other styles you may have tried?

Eve: I love the low maintenance and the texture. I love the way my hair feels.

Idadi: What’s the difference between how you looked at your hair when it was relaxed, and how you look at it now?

Eve: Giirl! My hair would NOT grow when it was relaxed, or at least it seemed that way cause it was always breaking off. I hated my hair! I looked a mess until I cut it super short… And that was right before I decided to go natural.

Idadi: What would you say is the one essential product necessary for a successful, long term, loc style?

Eve: Shampoo and water. *lmao* Some people don’t even do that much. Eww!

Idadi: *lol* Fair enough. Now, what advice do you have for others looking to start their own personal journeys?

Eve: The only advice I have is to stick with it if you want to be natural. It takes patience to get your hair to the place you want it to be. And don’t believe the hype! Our hair doesn’t need all those different things they try to sell us. Just keep it moisturized (and this doesn’t mean greased… But that’s another topic. *lol*). Take time to see what works for you.

~@~

Eve’s Progress in Pictures

(click each image to enlarge)

Would you like to hear more from Eve? You can catch her Blog at www.everobnsn.com. Have a question about how she “do her natural do”? Contact her via Email at eve@socre8eve.com.

###

I am honoured to be able to share your natural process with others, Eve, and I wish you many more days of napptural beauty. You are an inspiration to me, and others who have made the transition as well, I am sure.

Healthy Hair Wishes,

NOTE: All pictures used are property of the individual persons featured, unless otherwise noted. All right reserved.

Hi Hi Again Every People! The recipes have each been tested, and the results are in!

Recipes are rated on a scale of 1 – 5 Afro Picks… 1 being the lowest rating, and something I would not use again or recommend, and 5 being the highest rating of something I’d most likely use again within the next five minutes. *lol*

And heeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeere we go…

Scalp Scrub =

I have used this recipe before, with very positive results. Because I only wash my hair once a week during the winter/spring months, my scalp tends to collect a flaky build up of dead skin cells, shampoo or conditioner residue, and what not (NOTE: NOT DIRT!). So the scrub is extremely helpful with revitalizing my scalp and getting those pores some breathing room. I personally use turbinado sugar, which is what I use in my coffee, and the course grains work wonders on loosening all the gunk. The conditioner I used, which works to make the scrub less abrasive, as well as acts a detangling agent, was Garnier Fruitis Moisture Works Fortifying Cream Conditioner.

As you can imagine, the recipe is very simple to mix. Instead of wetting my entire head, I used my spray bottle to moisten my scalp, then distributed the mixture upon my scalp liberally. Like my facial scrubs, I only use this every other washing, as to not over stimulate that scalp.

So, the Scalp Scrub recipe gets a 5 Pick rating for effectiveness, ease of mixing, and ease of use. I highly recommend it.

***

Egg & Olive Oil Treatment =

This was my first time using this recipe, but I really didn’t have any expectations on how well it would work. I know olive oil is good for helping to keep hair moist, as well as smooth the hair shaft to prevent frizzies, and that egg is a good treatment for protein and vitamin, but beyond that I wasn’t really sure what I was supposed to be “looking for” in comparison to commercial treatments.

Mixing the recipe was particularly easy, although I realized a bit too late that I should have beat the egg in a separate bowl before adding it to the olive oil. The result was an egg yoke that remained pretty much intact, even as it separated into three different “blobs”. This prevented me from being able to get a lot of the mixture into my hair, as the yoke blobs and oil slid over the surface, and on into the sink. But I was able to get enough into my hair on scalp to make the process worth it.

First thing I noticed almost immediately was how large my coils where once the mixture had been distributed, not the small ringlets that normally occur when I wet my hair. There was no tangling or matting, and I was able to easily run my fingers through my hair to massage my scalp. After the required ten minutes under ye olde shower cap, with egg and oil continuously dripping down the side of my face, I rinsed my hair thoroughly with lukewarm water. In comparison with commercial treatments, my hair did not feel silky soft, but it did feel a bit smoother than normal.

I followed this up with a quick shampoo using Gariner Fructis Moisture Works Fortifying Shampoo, and it washed out clean with very little effort.

Quite possibly it will take a couple of tries to see any “real” results from the treatment, but as it stands now, I only give it 3 Picks. I’ll reserve recommending this recipe for the moment.

***

Honey & Olive Oil Conditioner =

This was my first time using this recipe too, and again, my expectations were nil. Another relatively easy to mix recipe which utilized heat as a way to penetrate the hair and leave behind all its honey/olive oil goodness. The mixture was also easy to apply, although I must stress the importance of making sure you DO NOT over heat the honey. With its syrupy consistency and “sugary” base, honey has the capacity to hold heat way longer than most liquids, and can do some real damage to your scalp if you underestimate its temperature.

Once the conditioner was applied, I threw my plastic shower cap on, covered that with a plastic grocery store bag, and wrapped both in a warm towel to wait out the thirty minutes. After enough time had elapses, I rinsed my hair with luke warm water.

Again, I may have to wait a couple more uses before I can report any “real” results in comparison with the commercial products I use. I only gave this recipe 2 Picks because once all was said and done, I had a lot more oil in my hair than need be, even after the clarifying rinse. Hopefully as my hair dries (I opted t0 put it in pigtails and allow it to air dry) a lot of the left over oil will be absorbed.

I do not recommend this recipe, although with a few adjustments of the olive oil level, it may work out just fine in the future.

ADDITION 23-2008-5 @ 17:24

Even after a night’s sleep, and leaving it in pigtails the majority of today, the olive oil was still so thick I could probably fry fifteen chicken wings with what I could squeeze out of my hair. ICK! Had to rewash it with commercial shampoo for two cycles before it was all out. Adjustments are definitely in order if I ever plan to use this again.

***

Apple Cider Clarifier =

I’ve used this recipe before and experienced very pleasant results, but this particular time it did not do a good enough job getting the majority of the olive oil out of my hair. It did, however, get my scalp fairly free of any residue that may have been left behind in the other processes, so that’s a good thing.

I only rinsed my hair once after the initial application of the clarifier, and as “promised”, my hair was relatively tangle-free when I combed through it to set it for air drying. The vinegar smell wasn’t all that bad either, and was barely noticeable after a few minutes.

I give this recipe 5 Picks because it does work to clear the hair of any lingering products… but for this process it did a very poor job of cutting down the olive oil content from the conditioner. Otherwise, I highly recommend it.

***

Facial Exfoliator =

LOVE IT, LOVE IT, LOVE IT!!! Very easy to mix, almost effortless to apply. The mixing process would have gone a little smoother had I had my mortar and pestle, but I found the spoon/earthen ware bowl method to be just as effective in grinding the oatmeal to a “fine” powder.

I noticed a difference in my facial skin texture and appearance after using this recipe; there was no “rawness” at all like one might experience with grainier exfoliator, and no irritation as can happen with commercial products. My pores were noticeable smaller, without the tight feeling I’d feel with even the products marketed at “gentle”. I used regular rolled oats that you’d pick up at the grocery store, and a box of Dollar Tree baking soda so not only is it a great cleanser, it is the cleanser that keeps on giving, cause you have the capacity to make plenty of applications for less than you would pay for a 30 day supply of the commercial stuff! Because it starts out dry, you can premix applications and store it in your medicine cabinet or pantry for quick and easy use as well as travel.

No question why this recipe gets 5 Picks, eh? It very well might end up being my cleanser of choice from here on out! I highly recommend it.

***

Oatmeal & Honey Mask = 1/2

Easy to mix, not so easy to apply (which is why it get 4.5 Picks instead of 5), but it smells great and the results afterward are AMAZING!!!

I mixed, and applied, and waited the required ten minutes, then removed the sticky mess with a soft towel and warm water. IMMEDIATELY after my face was cleared I noticed a soft, subtle quality to my skin that was free from tightness or dryness. My skin looked clearer than it had since I was a teenager, with a healthy non-oily shine and radiant glow. My pores remained small and unlike what happens when I use my regular mask, there were no initial “pimples” caused by clay or other products being left in the pores when they closed!

It takes some finagling to get the mixture to stay put, but once the honey congealed and began to set, there were no more clumps of falling oatmeal. Of course, while it was on, I did take on the look of The Thing… but that was only a temporary condition, well worth how good my skin looked after all was said and done.

I recommended it, but I probably would not use it all too often myself simply because of the difficulty in application.

***

Apple Cider Vinegar Toner =

Another easy to mix, easy to apply recipe that helped clear away any remaining honey or oatmeal, and tone the skin. I fell in love with this instantly, as soon as I looked at my cotton round and could not see a trace of ANYTHING! With my regular toner, I could wipe and wipe and wipe some more, and never come away with an applicator that was free of some kind of residue. Nothing clogging up the pores, no oils, no left over skin cells. NADA! ZIP! Not a gosh dern thing! In addition to this, since this tone does not contain an ounce of alcohol, unlike my regular toner, there were no drying after-effects that had me running for the moisturizer bottle. As a matter of fact, I didn’t have to use any moisturizer at all even an hour after I was done with my facial.

Any question why this recipe received a 5 Pick rating? I hope not.

###

So there you have it. As I said with the Honey & Olive Oil Conditioner, if you plan to use any of these recipes, you might want to play around with the ingredient amounts to find the mixture that gives you the best results for your hair type and condition. If you do try any of the recipes out, I’d love to hear your results. You can leave a comment here or send them to me via Email at amichelle@journeyback2me.com.

I wish you happy experimenting!

Healthy Hair Wishes,