Protecting Your Newly Colored Tresses (Repost)

While scrolling through my posts, I noticed that this post (about newly colored hair) was missing!  I was able to recover it due to some searching through google, so here it is!

While on Twitter I was asked:  "How do I take care of my newly colored natural hair? I love it, but I don't want to end up bald!"  I laughed at the latter part of the statement, but that was seriously a good question!

April 2013, D&L Go Intense Spicy Red (2nd Application)

Caring for newly color treated natural hair is very important especially when trying to not only preserve the color, but protect one's delicate strands as well.  First, you must decide between permanent color, which requires the cuticle to be lifted before color can be deposited, or semi-permanent color, which deposits color on top of the strands.  Permanent coloring is that-- permanent.  To get rid of permanent color, one must allow the color to grow out, hair must be re-dyed, or the colored strands have to be snipped away.  Semi-permanent, also known as a rinse, will wash out in 28 shampoos or so.

Maintaing moisture becomes super, extra important especially when using permanent color.  Hair usually becomes drier when colored, and requires a little more moisture than usual.  However, it is also important to understand that water, our main source of moisture, is color's worst enemy.  Too much water, whether washing or rinsing, can cause color to fade a lot more quickly, especially if the water is too hot.  Hot water opens up the cuticle, allowing the color molecules to escape.  Who likes washed out dye jobs?  Nobody!  Therefore, it is important to learn how to protect color treated hair.  For one, always stick to lukewarm or cold water; it smooths and closes the cuticle, minimizing color molecule loss, breakage, and dry strands.  Hence why it is better for the hair.  It is also important to use products that maintain hair color and moisture balance such as color protecting or sulfate free products.  Protein and moisture treatments become a little more important once hair has been color treated.  Using a protein treatment post dye application can help to restore hair's protein balance and strength.  It is also important to apply a moisturizing treatment to maintain hair's moisture levels.  *Maintaining protein and moisture levels is important; too little or too much, protein or moisture, can have damaging effects to hair.  

Current Color October 2013

Honestly, I am not a fan of semi-permanent color, or rinses.  When I decide to change my hair color, I want to see the actual color.  If I want to dye my hair red, I want red (hence the pictures), NOT a red tint.  Therefore, I opt for permanent hair color.  However, I do not use products specific to color protecting, but I use sulfate-free shampoos, I avoid long rinsing, and I use cold water.  No, it is not fun, but protecting my hair color and my hair's health is important to me.  There are also alternatives to chemical dyes, including henna, but I do not have much interaction, or info, with henna application.

IF you are considering dyeing your hair, I would recommend doing your research!  This way, you can find the right color for you-- one that goes well with your skin tone and will look amazing once applied!  Strand tests are always recommended to make sure there are no reactions to the dye.  I, however, am a DIYer (Do It Yourself-er) so I dye my hair at home using box dye kits.  This may not work for everyone, so if you need to consult with professional help, do so!  Also, never be afraid to ask questions :)

I hope this helps for those that are worried about protecting their newly dyed strands, but also to those considering dyeing their hair.

Until next time,
Ashley, xo.

Have any questions about color treated hair, or considering coloring your hair?  Tell me about it!

Kinky Curly Knot Today x Extra Virgin Coconut Oil Twist-Out Review

I finally had time to do my hair Monday night and decided that I would dedicate a little more time to twisting my hair instead of doing a WnG.  I love WnGs, but I needed something different, and twist-outs are the next best thing!

So instead of using my twist out creams and stylers, I decided to take a very simple route using only my Kinky-Curly Knot Today detangler/leave-in and EVCO.  I figured this would be good for me because I'd be able to style my hair and seal it-- killing two birds with one stone kind of thing, woo!

I squeezed my hair to get rid of the excess water, applied my leave in, paying careful attention to my ends, and prepared myself to twist.  I grabbed my denman (modified, of course) and sectioned my hair starting from the front.  I applied my EVCO and used my denman to do a last detangle, while smoothing the hair for twisting.  When I get to the ends of my hair, I stop twisting and twirl the ends around my finger so they'll stay twisted overnight.  I blotted my hair with an old t-shirt to soak up some more water and tied my bonnet on.

I hoped and prayed that my hair would dry, but I hit it with the blow dryer for a few minutes anyway.  But still-- it wasn't dry! :( Now, I've had twist outs that weren't completely dry, and they were lovely, but nothing beats a 100% dry twist out!  

I applied some EVOO before I took my twists out.  I then untwisted my twists by twisting them in the opposite direction before I separated them.  I tend to stretch my separated twists before pulling them apart to create a fuller look.  I used bobby pins to pin the front down until it laid how I wanted, and left.

I was happy with the definition that I got; however, I felt that if my twists would have dried completely, then I would have had one of the best twist out results I have ever seen.  One thing I did notice with the EVCO is that in colder temps, the CO will harden, but will soften immediately in warmer conditions so do not be alarmed!  (I noticed that on my way to the train station and while sitting on the train.)

I would recommend trying these products for a twist out especially if you have hair that gets weighed down easily.  My hair is super soft and feels moisturized so this route is a go for me!  I will definitely use these products again in my next twist out, but will allow more time for drying.

Until next time, 

Ashley, xo.

What are your favorite products to use for your twist outs?  Share with us below!

Spotlight Monday: Cheryl

For this week's Spotlight Monday post, I've decided to do a loc edition.  Woo!

The first Loc Edition Spotlight Monday post features my older sister, Cheryl :)  She's done some of the most creative and pretty things with her locs, and I'm glad she was willing to share her story with us all.  Let us begin..

How long have you been loc'ing your hair?

> I've been loc'ing my hair for 7 years.

Why did you make the decision to do so?
> Truthfully, I was tired of combing it!  There was no grand epiphany this wasn't my calling.  I was really tired of perms and braids, and just refused to comb my hair any longer, but I wanted my Locs to be nice, not crazy looking.

How did you feel after beginning your journey?
> At first I was excited because this was something new. It wasn't at all what I expected since the goal was no work or maintenance.  It was actually a lot of work that needed to be done, and several times I started to forgo Locs and go back to a perm.

What are your hair goals?
> I have commitment issues (including an ex husband, lol), so it started by proving to him that I could follow through with something.  The more I saw it annoyed him, the better I felt about them, but with all the complements I've received, and people asking me could I help them, I feel this is the hair for me.  I didn't start from scratch with the close cut knobs, I still had some perm in it and I would just cut the ends every 6 weeks and I began to see the transformation; I love them!  Currently, I'm trying to see how long I want to let them grow so that's my next challenge.  At this point, they are midway down my back, but I want them even, so by this time next year, I will check to see if I'm any closer to where I draw the line and clip them.

Do you try different/creative styles?  If so, what is/are your favorites?
> At first I didn't; I just curled them and was ready to go!  Now that they are longer, I love a Mohawk, or spiral curls.  The Mohawk is my favorite.

How do you feel about your hair today?  
> My hair is like a tree-- I water, nurture it, and watch it grow.  I love being natural and the different scents I can use as well as the shine which let's me know it's healthy.

I love the way my sister colors her locs!  They've been brown, blonde, and I believe some shade of red at a point.  I also love when she curls them with pipe cleaners (very creative I must say)!  She also has 177 locs.  She counts them when she styles 'em! :)

Until next time,
Ashley, xo.

A Quick Tip to Mattify Your Favorite Non-Matte Lippies!

L-R: Viva Glam GaGa2, Viva Glam Nicki Minaj, Nicki Minaj Pink Friday, Maybelline ColorSensational Plum Perfect

We all have that one favorite lipstick we wish came in a matte finish.  So here's a quick tip to mattify your lippies!

First, apply your lipstick of choice.  Next, cover your lips with a tissue.  Then, lightly apply a translucent face/finishing powder over the tissue with a powder brush.

*Side note: You can also do this without using a tissue.  For the above picture, I used a fan brush with a face powder.

& Voilà!

Now, you can enjoy your favorite lipstick in a matte finish!

Until next time,
Ashley, xo.

Hair Terminology

After a few weeks since the launch of Curls Fo' the Girls, I asked my friends if they liked the blog, if they had any suggestions, etc., and my friend suggested that I do style tutorials and the such.  In the midst of her suggestion, she said she didn't know how to do a TWA, and I busted out laughing.  

I corrected her and explained what a TWA was.  She then suggested that I do a post on "Natural Hair Slang".  Below, I have listed some of the most common words used within the natural hair community.  However, these are NOT in alphabetical order!  But do comment below if you have any that I did not mention!  The more words, the better :)

TWA= Teeny Weeny Afro

CoWash= Conditioner wash, to wash the hair with conditioner

SLS= Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Sodium Laureth Sulfate; the lathering agents in shampoos that strip hair of its natural oils

LOC= Liquid Oil Cream, a method to moisturize, lock in moisture, and seal the hair using a liquid (water based leave in conditioner), oil to lock in the moisture, and cream to seal the hair

Humectants= ingredients that help draw moisture from the air into the hair (honey, glycerin)

BC= Big Chop

DC/DT= Deep Conditioner/Deep Treatment

DIY= Do It Yourself, often refers to homemade hair products

EVOO= Extra Virgin Olive Oil

EVCO= Extra Virgin Coconut Oil

JBCO= Jamaican Black Castor Oil

Pre-Poo= a pre treatment before shampooing the hair, EVOO or EVCO is often used

PJ, Product Junkie= describes a person that has to buy/try almost every hair product/brand :(

2nd Day Hair= hair that has been styled and looks good for a second day

HG, Holy Grail= a staple product that works perfectly for your hair

Slip= describes how slippery a product (conditioner) is to allow fingers/wide tooth comb to glide
through hair for optimal detangling

Transition/ing= the stage of moving from permed hair to natural hair

Demarcation Line= the place where natural hair meets the permed hair.  This line is very sensitive and breakage is very likely at this point.

WnG= Wash & Go, a style where you wash the hair, apply your leave ins & go!

HIHS= Hand In Hair Syndrome, constant touching, twisting, twirling the hair that can lead to frizz and other damage

Protective Styling= styles that require low manipulation to hide the ends of the hair to promote healthy hair growth (buns, braids, sew ins)

Sealing= a method of using an oil or other products to seal the ends of the hair, limit breakage (JBCO is great for sealing the ends of hair)

Finger Detangle= the process of using your fingers to detangle (one of the best methods)

HTH, Hope This Helps! :)
Until next time,
Ashley, xo.

Do you have any other Hair Terminology words that we should know about?  Share them below!

Spotlight Monday: Reecie

This Spotlight Monday features my friend Daryce, or Reecie, as most call her.  She has been my friend for about 18 years or so now; she is a woman of many hairstyles.  I seriously NEVER know what I'm going to get when I see her.  But let's get this Spotlight Monday started, shall we..

Must Have 2013 Fall/Winter Fashion Trends

Thinking back to my first post, I believe I mentioned to you all that I would be including different pieces on my blog including fashion and makeup topics.  Finally, we'll take a quick break from our cabinets and head to our closets as my friend, Jair, a fashion PR blogger, guides us in selecting pieces for our 2013 Fall/Winter Wardrobes...

Jair, Fashion PR Blogger, Creator of fashionroyaltyblog.wordpress.com

Hello ladies,

I think it’s only right that I first introduce myself.  My name is Jair, and I am a fashion PR blogger.  I am thankful Ashley wanted to feature me on her blog.

Now, as it finally gets colder, I thought it was only right to talk about 2013 fall and winter trends.  There are plenty of trends that will catch your eye.  Some might be intimidating , and some are super easy to pull off.  Today, I will share three trends that are a must have in your wardrobes.  These looks will not only be work appropriate, but can double up as either casual or nightlife looks.

Statement Color: Green

1. Shades of Green:
Green is definitely in for the fall.  Different shades of green look fantastic while the colors of the leaves are changing.  Instead of going for pastel and bright neon green, opt for emerald, sage, or forest green.  These rich and vibrant colors looks fabulous, and can warm up the tones of a look during the chillier months.  If you’re bold and daring, purchase an oversized wool coat or a sleek tailored dress with a knee length hemline.  The oversized wool coat will keep you warm on chilly days while adding extra character to any outfit.  A sleek tailored dress in either of these gorgeous colors will also set you apart while at work. The color will definitely warm up the undertones in your skin, while keeping you classy and chic.  If one statement piece is too much, you can opt for some green accessories.  In this look, I paired a wool black sweater with a wool knee length pencil skirt with leather detail, a forest green tote and a forest green hat.  Even though this look is simple, you bring character to the outfit by bringing in this statement color.

Statement Coat

2. Statement Coat:

This fall/winter, it is essential to have a statement coat.  Whether you’re bold and funky, or a minimalist, you'll need to have a coat that sets you apart, and takes your outfit to a whole new level.  Statement coats are a perfect touch for a simple outfit.  It’s an easy way to show your personal style without having to do so much with the base of your outfit.  If you want something super bold, opt for a bright faux mink coat, or something with a bold pattern and color.  These would be perfect to pair with an all black outfit.  It will give the outfit an immediate dose of personality.  The look I put together was a little subtle.  Cream is a beautiful color for the fall, especially in contrast to the colors of the leaves.  Wearing a pair of boyfriend jeans, a cream chunky oversized wool sweater, and a pair of booties, is the perfect base for this outfit.  It’s warm, yet easy and comfortable.  The statement jacket is a trendy shearling drape jacket.  Even though it’s a neutral color, the fur showing on the inside sets the jacket apart.  Also, it looks fab against the wool cream sweater.  To complete this look wear gold accessories-- simple studs and a chunky chain necklace-- a leopard clutch, and maroon lipstick and nail polish. The maroon will definitely set the mood for the fall.

The Leather Touch

3. Leather Weather:

We all know that leather was a major trend for this summer, even though it seemed a little impractical.  To embrace the cool weather, this funky trend will follow us into fall.  Instead of wearing leather shorts or skirts, switch it up with a pair of leather sweatpants or trousers.  These leather sweatpants give a “put together” casual look.  This look I put together was casual, yet appropriate for work, or for a day exploring NYC.  The boxy white t-shirt was perfect for these leather sweatpants.  It gives the look a trendy and cool feel.  I also added a wool trench coat with leather detailing to this outfit.  I think the coat was super cool and amped up the outfit; it brought it together as a whole.  To finish off the look, add a pair of sneakers, gold accessories, and nude makeup.  This keeps the look fresh, clean, and, of course, chic.

There are plenty of trends to be embraced for the colder months.  These are just a few essentials you MUST have in your wardrobe to have a fashionable fall and winter.  For more news about fashion, public relations, beauty, and styling tips tune in to fashionroyaltyblog.wordpress.com for updates.  Thanks for reading!

For more info about these looks prepared by Jair, follow @FPR_Royalty on Twitter!

Ouidad Curl Quencher Hydrafusion Intense Curl Cream Review

So I picked up the Ouidad Curl Cream sample (as seen in the photo) at an International Hair Expo back in May, and just got around to trying it out.  The inner PJ in me was seriously trying to steer clear from trying new products for my pockets' sake.  However, I recently found the sample and decided to try it over the weekend.

I washed my hair on Friday-- followed by a protein treatment (review coming soon) and did the greenhouse method overnight.  In the morning, I removed the plastic caps, and did a moisturizing treatment with Curl Junkie Curl Rehab while I showered.  I added my leave-in using only the KCKT.  Then, I applied the Ouidad Curl Cream...

Results from Ouidad's Curl Quencher Hydrafusion Intense Curl Cream

Let me just say I. Am. In. Love!  The curl cream gave me incredible curl definition, my hair was soft and it smelled amazing!  Although the sample was small in size, I had more than enough for my shoulder length when wet hair.  I applied the cream in a clapping motion, as I do with all of my products, and was thoroughly impressed by the immediate results.

Now, here's the catch.  A 5 ounce bottle of this stuff sells for a whopping $26.  I loved this product because it gave me well defined and bouncy first day curls.  I misted my hair a bit on Sunday and added some more of the product.  I still had some curl definition, but not as defined as I did on Saturday.  However, it is Monday and my hair feels drier than ever!  I seriously don't understand why especially because I just did my hair on Saturday.  I still have some defined curls, but frizz is starting to develop.  Maybe I didn't moisturize enough before I added the product, but other than that I'm not exactly sure why my hair feels so dry.  But what I will do is find the other sample I had and try it again before I make the decision to buy it, or not (and just to think, I called myself a recovering PJ *shakes head in disgust).

If you are looking for a product that creates super defined and bouncy first day curls, and you have the extra money to spend, go for Ouidad's Curl Quencher Hydrafusion Intense Curl Cream.  However, if you do not wish to spend the $26, I would recommend trying to find the sample sized product before you make the commitment to spend the money.

Fighting the PJ itch until next time,
Ashley, xo.

Have you tried the Ouidad Curl Quencher Hydrafusion Intense Curl Cream, or any other Ouidad products?  If so, let me know what you think!

Spotlight Monday: Alex

For today's Spotlight Monday feature, you all will be meeting Alex; she is my friend and hair crush.  I absolutely love her hair, especially the growth she's managed to accomplish over two years!

Shall we..

How long have you been natural?
> I've been natural for almost two years.  It will be two years this December.

Did you transition or big chop?  Why did you take that route?
> I transitioned for a year and a half, not intentionally.  I was really over getting perms.  I didn't really put the concept of me going natural together.  I just couldn't deal with my hair not being versatile, but looking stringy and hopeless when wet.  So I decided to stop getting the creamy-crack that burned my scalp for years.  It wasn't worth it.  I started to do styles that didn't require heat such as using flexi-rods in my hair.  I absolutely loved the results, but it was tedious to do some nights before bed.  Then, I went another route.  I bought some wigs that blended into my hair and people would never know the difference :)  That lasted a while until one morning at school when I woke up to a knotted mess that was my hair.  I was literally in tears!!!  The night before, I had washed my hair, detangled, and put it into about 6 large twists and went to sleep.  When I woke up, there was a large matted knot on the right side of my head.  I couldn't understand why my hair knotted up the way it did.  I was used to going to sleep with wet hair, detangled hair.  I realized it wouldn't work the same with TWO different textures-- the permed ends and my new growth.  So I did what I had to do and cut off the knotted mess.  I had one short side and one long side; I threw on a wig and went to class.  That weekend, I went home and my sister did the big chop!!!  My Mom cried lol.

On big chopping-- How did you feel?
> The night of my big chop we were going to a party, but I didn't want to go!!!!  I wanted to hide under a rock; I thought I looked like a boy.  I couldn't hide behind my hair any longer!!!  My sister said 'you are going and you are gonna own your hair, it's yours!!!!'  (I hated her lol)  So I got dressed, put on some big earrings and false lashes, and I walked into that party owning my hair!  I received so many compliments!!!!!!!!  Even guys were loving my hair.  I got used to my NEW HAIR quickly and I loved it.  I never looked back on that creamy-crack (crack is whack) lol.

What was it like when you experienced your natural hair for the first time?
> I thought I looked crazy.  It took a while for me to get used to my new look.  I didn't think I looked feminine enough because my hair was so short.  I would wear large earrings and false lashes just so I wouldn't look like a boy.  That only lasted a few weeks since my hair was growing rapidly.  I loved having my hair that short because it was so easy to maintain.  It was literally a WnG (Wash & Go) and I would just apply a little oil and some Eco Styler Gel.

How do you feel about your hair today?

> I never regretted going natural; it's probably the best thing that happened to me.  I never have to really worry about my hair, or sweating it out. I LOVEEEEEEEE my hair, and everything about it.  I love this new journey, this new lifestyle.  I actually do have one regret, and that is not becoming natural SOONER!!!  Now my hair is growing longer than when I had a perm.  I just CAN'T wait until my hair reaches my lower back.  Until then, I'm enjoying my natural hair journey.  I feel freer than ever!!!  No more wigs, no more creamy-crack.  Now my sister, my Mom, my Grandma, and I are all natural, and we love it.  Naturalistas runs in the family lol.

To keep up with Alex, and her hair, see her on Instagram @AlexDotCom_

Until next time,
Ashley, xo.

Do you have any questions for Alex, or wish to be featured on Spotlight Monday?  Comment below!

L'Oreal EverCurl Sulfate-Free Hydracharge Shampoo and Leave-In Cream Product Review

As most of you know, I have been on the hunt for a new shampoo and leave-in conditioner.  I wanted a shampoo that I could be satisfied with-- something that cleaned my hair well (especially from built up eco styler gel), something that didn't dry my hair out, create knots, and smelled great.  As for a leave-in, I want something that would replace my bevy of leave-ins so that I'd have one go-to leave-in conditioner (combining does get tiring).  But anywho..

I just recently tested out the L'Oreal EverCurl Sulfate-Free Hydracharge Shampoo and Leave-In Cream, and I will provide my review of these two products.  First, we'll begin with the shampoo.

The L'Oreal EverCurl Sulfate-Free Hydracharge Shampoo is

• 100% Sulfate-Free
• Contains No Harsh Salts, No Parabens
• Natural Botanicals
• 100% Vegan

On the shampoo tube it says, the EverCurl Hydracharge Shampoo "quenches and softens, protecting each curl's shape.  Infuses hydrating nourishment without weigh-down.  Curls are softer, more manageable, without frizz.  Its rich lather and natural aromatic properties help invigorate the senses".

This shampoo has made its way to my heart!  I can honestly say that I love it.  My hair felt clean-- I didn't see or feel any leftover eco styler-- my hair didn't feel dry, and the smell is great!  At $6.99, I will definitely be purchasing this shampoo again.  I loved the way my hair felt once I was done washing it and I didn't have any knots; that was one of my biggest concerns.  I also noticed that my hair was still soft and my curls were very much defined.  I will say that I was impressed, big time!  This will be my go-to shampoo.

As for the EverCurl Hydracharge Leave-In Cream, it says it "provides intense hydrating nourishment with no weigh down.  This ultra-rich formula feeds curls with moisture, helps block frizz and nurtures each curl's elasticity and shape".

Unfortunately, the leave-in cream did not do it for me :(.  My hair felt a little dry, and although I had some curl definition, most of my hair was a frizzy mess!  Aside from the amazing scent, IMO, there is not much to rave about over the leave-in.  At this point, I'll stick to my leave-in combinations.  I will be returning this product.

I hope this information helps you, but do not let my opinion and assessment of these products deter you from trying them.  I had a better experience with the shampoo than the leave-in, but you might have a great experience with both products.  If you have tried either of these products, or if you will in the future, let me know!  I would love to hear your thoughts about them.

Until next time,
Ashley, xo.

Have you tried the L'Oreal EverCurl Sulfate-Free Curl Care System?  What are your thoughts on the products?

Spotlight Monday: Chantell

It's Monday again, and you know what that means-- Spotlight Monday!  Today, we will meet Chantell.  Not only is she my friend, BUT she is one of my favorite naturalistas.

Let's begin..

How long have you been natural?
> I have been natural for 3.5 years.  It has been a looooong journey.

Did you transition, or big chop?  Why did you take that route?
> I got my last perm in May 2009 (for prom) and then I big chopped in Feb 2010.  In between, I mostly straightened my hair, but I played with braid outs and twist outs to blend the textures.  I thought I wanted to wait to gain some length before I big chopped, but I got sick of sweating out my blowouts/flat irons, and working with thick roots and limp permed ends.

On big chopping-- How did you feel?
> I asked one of my friends to cut it on a huge whim and I tried to make it a really meaningful experience.. side note* we burned the hair and everything.  But when I got home and looked in the mirror I was miserable.  I even skipped a school party because I was so uncomfortable with my hair.  It took a lot of time for me to get used to my new hair. I kept saying I was baldheaded (lmao) and my family didn't help with their jokes either.  My great uncle told me it looked awful.  It's funny now, but it definitely wasn't then.


What was it like when you experienced your natural hair for the first time?
> To be honest, I didn't really embrace my hair until about a year and a half into being natural.  Once I discovered my hair was easily straightened, all I did was wear it straight.  The few times I did wear it natural, it attracted too much attention that I didn't care for. Once the natural hair movement exploded on blogs and YouTube, I began to educate myself on how to take care of my hair.  It became a huge, and expensive, hobby.  I bought damn near every product, but I've finally developed a couple of regimens that work for my hair type, which I consider to be a 3c/4a.

How do you feel about your hair today?
> I LOVE my hair, it's so versatile.  I'm so proud of it, and its one of my favorite things about myself.  When people ask questions about it, I'm happy to respond.  Although I haven't reached my length goal yet, it's as healthy as its ever been, which is the most important part.  Healthy hair is good hair.

For more hair photos, visit Chantell on Instagram @ceeemjay! :)

Until next time,
Ashley, xo.

Do you have any natural hair questions for Chantell?  If so, comment below!

My Current Regimen

1 pump of this.. 3 squeezes here.. shake 4 times to the left.. and voilà!

I wish it was as simple as a pump, a squeeze & a shake, but anywho..

As most of you know, it is extremely important to create a hair regimen.  For those of you that don't know, it is extremely important to create a hair regimen.  By creating a regimen, you are formulating a method to not only see what your hair likes, but to make wash days and hair management easier.  Once you do this, washing (shampooing or cowashing), conditioning, and styling your hair should become a breeze.  

I usually get a lot of questions about my regimen like, "what do I use to do this?!" "how do you get your hair like this?!" or "how did you do that??", so I'm going to break my regimen down so you can all see what I do to get her like this, or that :)

First:  I wash my hair (usually with shampoo).  Yes, I am a shampooer!  I find that I get better results if my hair is clean clean.  I find that cowashing doesn't really do it for me, especially after a couple of days of eco styler gel use.  I have not found a conditioner or cowash cleanser that can remove old, built up eco styler gel, so shampoo it is!  At the moment I am using Giovanni Tea Tree Triple Threat Invigorating Shampoo.  It provides me with the clean feeling that I love. 

Next:  After my hair is thoroughly clean-- free from product and rinsed from the shampoo-- I condition and detangle my hair with a wide tooth comb.  This is one of the most important steps because this is when things get real!  If the right amount of slippery conditioner is not provided, you can end up ripping your hair out.. ouch.  I apply my conditioner all over, either TRESemme Naturals Nourishing Moisture Conditioner or Suave Naturals Conditioner, I stand under the shower stream for a few seconds to distribute the conditioner, then I grab my wide tooth comb & go to work.  I do not section my hair with twists, only because it doesn't take me a long time to detangle.  When wet, my hair is shoulder length, and extremely wavy; I rarely encounter knots and tangles so detangling is pretty easy.  If I do have a knot, or tangle, that the comb can't fix, I pull it apart with my fingers.  This way, I don't rip it out and cause harm to my hairs.  I usually start with the front left then I move to the back, applying more conditioner as needed.  Then I detangle the right side and finish the back.  I try to remove the shed hairs from the comb and my hands before moving to another section.  I would hate to detangle then mix the shed hairs back into my hair-- that would defeat the purpose of detangling.  After I'm done detangling, I add more conditioner, comb through my hair once more, and place my hair into a clip until I'm done showering.

Then:  After showering, I rinse the conditioner from my hair, squeeze the excess water out, and apply my deep conditioner.  I use Neutrogena Triple Moisture Deep Recovery Hair Mask (sometimes mixed with coconut and/or olive oils), Curl Junkie Curl Rehab Moisturizing Hair Treatment, or ORS Hair Mayonnaise (usually once a month).  I gather my hair into a processing cap, exit the shower, and sit under my bonnet dryer for 30mins to an hour on medium heat.  After my session, I remove the processing cap and allow the conditioner to cool.  I want to make sure that my hair has absorbed the goodies from the treatment before I rinse my hair.  When I do rinse, I rinse with cold water-- cold water closes the cuticle to lock the goodies in!

Next:  I squeeze the excess water out-- while doing this, I am careful not to wring my hair because I don't want to disturb the curl pattern.  So I gently squeeze my hair to remove the excess water.  Now I'll apply my leave in conditioners-- TRESemme Naturals Nourishing Moisture Conditioner, Kinky-Curly Knot Today, Neutrogena Triple Moisture Silk Touch Leave In Cream, Infusium 23 Repair & Renew, Cantu Shea Butter Leave In Conditioning Repair Cream, and/or Shea Moisture Restorative Conditioner.  I do not use all of these at once!  I use 1-3 depending on how I'm feeling, or if I need added moisture or protection.  Once I have added my leave in, I seal my hair with olive, sweet almond, coconut, or JBCO oil.  I also apply JBCO to my edges and scalp (I swear by it for hair growth).

wash & go

Finally:  I decide on the style.  If I decide to do a WnG (Wash & Go), I apply my Shea Moisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie.  I use this to not only enhance my curls, but to lock in all the moisture that I can!  Along with this, I'll apply a gel to add shine, bounce, and hold to my WnG.  I use either Miss Jessie's Jelly Soft Curls or Olive Oil Eco Styler Gel.  If I'm pressed for time, I usually diffuse my hair to help it dry quickly.  Other than that, I air dry.

If I do a twist out, I will apply my leave in: TRESemme Natural NM Conditioner, Cantu Shea Butter Leave In Conditioning Repair Cream and an oil, etc. and/or my Curly Kinks Twist Whip to twist.  If I use the CKTW, then I use one leave in and twist on damp hair.  I always take down my twists with some kind of oil on my hands.  The oil will add shine and help reduce frizz :)   

side notes:
- My newest/most common leave in combo is the KCKT and Shea Moisture Restorative Conditioner
- I've learned that the secret to avoid hard, crunchy curls with Eco Styler Gel is to put an oil underneath ;)
- Yes, that is a cookie monster toothbrush in my drawer (I have to lay my edges down sometimes lol)
- I do refrigerate my TRESemme Naturals Conditioner-- a cold leave in will also help to seal the hair cuticle ;)
- That's only one drawer worth of products LOL
- Most importantly-- Once you create a regimen, and it works for you, stick with it!

The longest part of my regimen is usually the time spent under my bonnet dryer and my styling time, especially if I decide to twist my hair.  Other than that, I find my wash days pretty easy.  I do alter things in my regimen once in a while, such as my deep conditioning treatments (I have used coconut oil & JBCO before), and I pre poo once in a while, but this is what I do more times than a few.  I found that this particular regimen works for me.  I wanted to share my regimen with you all so that you can see what I do to get my hair to look a certain way, but so you all also have an idea of how to create your own regimens.  I hope this helps, but I'm willing to answer questions if you have any!

Xo, Ashley  

Have you created your own hair regimen?  Have you found a system that works for you?  Share it with us; leave a comment below!