This is what I learned so far..

Hello again curlfriends!

One of the things that I've been pondering on lately, is how so much can change in a year. These are some of the things that I've learned this year. How to moisturise my hair properly. I learned to master the LOC method. This was certainly a game changer for me! The centre of my hair always broke off because it was constantly dry and brittle. I think 'kliphard' describes it  rather better...So after experimenting with numerous amounts of products like leave- ins, creams, oils... I finally found a combo that works best for my hair! (It's not called a hair journey for nothing.)

So my hair is finally getting longer and healthier. I have settled into a nice routine that works.
So here's the thing- Its important to know where you've been in order to know where you're headed. Yep, I've been pondering y'all!
Your hairs past affects its future awesomeness, so it's utterly crucial to have a healthy hair game plan.
 If you don't, you will find yourself wasting money on every product that you hear about just because it worked for someone else. I have learned this the hard way, trust me. You may be thinking "she's not talking to me" ... But I totally am. Just don't buy hair products on impulse.
When I eventually found a routine that worked  for me, I no longer saw my hair as a chore. I no longer relied on the "rules" of the natural hair community. Always remember this-  your hair journey is also a journey of IDENTITY.... (I told ya I've been pondering!)
 Another thing that I've learned is to keep my hair happy by deep conditioning every time I wash it and even when I co- wash too. Failure to deep condition may be the cause of your hair breaking.
In the beginning I was doing too much with my hair. I became overwhelmed and sometimes frustrated. I got caught up with  products, styling methods, routines etc... You have LOC, LCO, oil rinses, tea rinses, mud washing and the list goes on. I became distracted. My wash days were lengthy and I began to resent it. I think you'll know me by now - I'm a no fuss kinda curly. I made up my mind to just do me. Just stick to the basics. I now style once on wash day instead of every day. My go to style are twists because it's simple, cute and my hair stays stretched.

It's easier to handle stretched hair. You can do more styles on hair that's stretched.
I also learned my hairs porosity. I had to re- think some things that I was doing. Since I know my hairs porosity I now know which products work well for me.

Through experimenting and researching I found that my hair thrives on ayurveda hair treatments. I suggest you do the same and while you at it ) have fun and enjoy the process.
I hope you enjoyed this post as much as I enjoyed writing it. Keep in mind that natural hair can be complicated but only if you make it out to be.
What's some of the things that you've learned so far in your hair journey?

Until next time curlies,
Stay Natural  - Stay Magical
Xoxo - Marlene Louw

Here is why you should try Ayurveda hair treatments....

Hello to all the lovely curlies!

 I tried a new ayurvedic powder! It's the Holy Basil also known as Tulsi! I was at our local Indian spice shop again, when I spotted it  and figured I would give it a go. I only got one sachet because I wasn’t sure how well I would like it.

Tulsi is a type of basil plant and is part of the mint family. It has antiseptic and antibacterial properties and is considered an anti-pollutant. It helps alleviate skin and scalp issues like dandruff, itchy scalp, ringworm, scabies, eczema. It protects and moisturizes your scalp. You can also use it on your face to treat blemishes and acne.
It is a green color in its powder form but when I mixed it with some green tea it turned into more of a brown color.

   

      I found that this paste didn't distribute very well because it was a bit too gritty to apply. I had to add a bit of conditioner to the mix. 

           

        
I used a whole sachet, I brewed some green tea and added some coconut oil and almond oil. Lastly I added a few drops of rosemary essential oil. 
In a medium size bowl, mix all ingredients together. I used three tea bags  to make a thick paste. Gently section your hair, and use an applicator brush to generously apply the mixture starting at the scalp, and working your way down the hair shaft. Cover with a plastic cap and allow mixture to sit on head for about an hour. I leave on for more,  it totally depends on you. Rinse thoroughly it requires a lot of rinsing. Use conditioner to cleanse. I use quite alot. Deep condition afterwards and always because the powders are very drying.

I’ve been impressed by the strengthening and growth properties of these ayurveda hair treatments. Join me here for some more tips and advice to healthy hair.

Have you tried any ayurveda hair 
treatments to your regimen? 

Until next time, 
Stay Natural     Stay Magical
Xo Xo -  Marlene Louw

a Happy Hair Journey...

Hey there curlies!

Natural hair is beautiful and requires effort on our part to flourish. So, I hope you find these tips helpful.   

Avoid products with mineral oil, or sulphates in them as they can be very drying.

DO - try to invest in products with  natural ingredients. Using natural products means you know exactly what you are putting on your head, so no more reading long lists of ingredients.
Use  a good water based moisturiser or leave-in conditioner to hydrate your hair.
 Seal your ends with a natural oil, or shea butter to keep in the moisture.
       
     

           

• Deep condition weekly. A moisturizing deep conditioner will help prevent breakage, moisturize your hair and strengthen your new growth.
• Protect your hair by staying away from heat and manipulation as much as possible. Protect your ends of your hair by doing styles that don’t expose them. Do not do styles that pull your hair tightly because this will result in hair loss.  Try doing loose buns and twists.
•  If you choose to do protective hairstyles – remember to take care of your hair and scalp underneath and do not to leave them in for too long.

 Never comb hair dry! The best method of combing hair is when wet or damp, and loaded with conditioner.

• Henna  applications are a great, it's a natural way to strengthen and thicken up your hair. Try it you won't be sorry. 

Extra care is needed for your natural hair at night. So, sleep with a hair bonnet or on a satin pillow.

I hope you found this post helpful, remember to keep it simple always. Cheers to a Happy Hair Journey!

Until next time
Stay Natural -  Stay Magical
Xo Xo Marlene Louw

QUick side note...

Hi curlies!
Learning to get to know your hair is a long process. This is why it’s called a Natural Hair Journey. 

Quick side note: After using a certain product for a while, your hair gets used to it, causing your hair to not react to it the same way. I suggest clarifying your hair. If clarifying doesn't work then try something new. Doesn't mean go out and be a product junkie again! Just buy something to replace the product that's not working for you anymore and test it out.

Catch these tips, my wash days and more on my hair page. As a recovering product junkie, I know the struggle-  but if your constantly using different products on your hair you’ll never know what’s working and what’s not working. 

So, that's my quick side notes for you today... Remember keep it simple and know that you are beautiful inside and out!

Until next time- 

Stay Natural   Stay Magical

Xo Xo - Marlene Louw

Durban Natural Social event....Recap

Hello again curlfriends!

The Durban Natural Social Day event was held this past Saturday and it was so much fun!! The founders, Maxine Arnold and Bryce Arnold did an awesome job of planning the event.

I must admit I really had no clue what to expect for this event and since I had no expectations I think this definitely heightened my overall experience.
It is an amazing accomplishment to see just how far the natural hair community and movement has grown. Women are beginning to value and see the beauty of their hair in its natural state.

We didn’t want the event to end, and everyone had an awesome afternoon of mingling and enjoying each other’s company. 

I saw women laughing, smiling, talking, hugging, shaking hands, air kissing, complimenting, and just genuinely showing love.One of my favorite parts about the event ((besides the goodies and cupcakes! hehe)) was the diversity of the panel. We each had a unique take on Natural hair. We all had the common motto of BE CONFIDENT in who you are because you are wonderfully and beautifully made...

Stunning handmade accessories by Marc Boss and African printed headwraps were on sale by the gorgeous Kim 
Kinsey Houston. Natural hair product range - The Perfect Curls, by the lovely Taryn Gill.
  

Taryn spilled the tea about everything from her humble beginnings to business,   natural hair & how she has been able to defy the odds and create a well known natural hair brand. It was awesome meeting her - what a strong woman!

I love to show off my goodies, so here’s a peek at what I received in my gift bag!

Thank you again Maxine and Arnold for inviting me to speak on the panel!!! . I didn’t realize how much I could talk about hair lol ((you would think I would know since I have a hair blog….duh lol)) 

It was so much fun and I hope to do it again.

Until next time,

Stay Natural - Stay Magical

Xoxo - Marlene Louw

Event Alert!

Hey there curlies!

One more day, yay! The excitement, the anticipation... The Durban Naturals Social Day. I must say that I always wanted to attend one of these events. I'm so honored to be part of this awesome get together. The event is hosted by the awesome two, natural enthusiasts - Maxine Arnold and her very supportive brother, Bryce Arnold. 
The theme is a touch of Africa.
There will loads of entertainment, live performances and spot prizes just to name a few. T- shirts, stunning African accessories and natural hair products will be on sale as well.
I know you curlies cannot wait to mix and mingle with other natural gals, professional hair stylists and other event sponsors and guests!
See you all on Saturday!
Xo Xo Marlene Louw

Unleash your curls... ORS Curl boosting jelly review

Hi curlies!

Three months ago I purchased the ORS Curl boosting jelly. I was kinda sceptical at first, because I don't use gels at all. For my hair, I find gels very drying and that they flake alot.

Description:
Perfect for curly & kinky textures, Crunch-less curl definition, Lightweight. Curls Unleashed Set It Off Curl Boosting Jelly provides great curl definition without the crunch. It works great for twistouts, coiling, shingling, freestyles and updo’s. It is lightweight and easy to apply for delightful curl definition. It is made with soothing aloe vera, wheat protein and vitamin B.

This giggly, jelly product actually did a pretty good job in my hair. . The best part is it didn’t dry my hair. It wasn’t sticky and it dried amazingly fast.

From this

To this

 The very first time I used it, was on wet hair. It was a complete fail. My hair felt stiff and hard. The second time, I applied the jelly on my twist out. The results were  light, fluffy, soft, semi-defined curls. I also love how this gel is  light and provides soft hold. This product definitely delivered, even though I cannot use it on wet hair. I'm not a wash and go fan so it's not a biggie.

I use very little for a tapered afro look.

Check out the tub in the background... I'm in a relationship with my Set it Off Curl Boosting Jelly!

 Almost done I have to get another tub like yesterday...So all-in-all I do really like this product.
Have you unleashed your curls?

Until next time,
Stay Natural -  Stay Magical
Xo Xo Marlene Louw

Snip and Slay...the Big Chop

Hello again curlies!

Short hair can free you. Cutting my hair was honestly such a brave move. The big chop is one of the two ways to go natural. The big chop is cutting all of your relaxed hair off and only working with your natural hair

I'll admit that the big chop may cause you to feel vulnerable but sometimes it's the best way to go natural. After the haircut you need to figure out how to maintain your short hair (TWA – Teeny Weenie Afro). Firstly, build an easy regimen, one that is simple and that works for you.
Don’t use too many products at once because you won’t know what’s working and what’s not.
Main Products You Need: a sulfate-free shampoo, rinse out conditioner, deep conditioner (used weekly), daily moisturizer,used as often as needed. Make sure your moisturizers have water listed as the first or second ingredient. My biggest mistake was using oil to soften my hair, it just sat on top of my hair. Remember this, oil is not a moisturizer. It's a sealant.  So add oils AFTER your water-based moisturizer to seal it in.

Create a daily moisturizing spritz with water, a few teaspoons of a leave-in conditioner and a few drops of your favorite natural oil.  Spray/mist your hair when it feels dry. I suffered from dry hair and after doing some research I started to do the baggying method – basically sleeping with a plastic cap or bag on your head to trap heat and moisture overnight. It takes time to get adjusted and learn your hair. You’re not gonna cut your hair and say, “This is exactly what I wanted.”
 You Tube is your best friend! There are hundreds, of tutorials showing how to style your baby fro.

Most of 2015 I rocked protective styles and it really helped retain the length of my hair. 

Lastly, remember you are gorgeous. Don’t let negative comments get you down! Enjoy every stage of your natural hair journey and have fun. 

Until next time

Stay Natural -  Stay Magical

Xo Xo -   Marlene Louw

Ayurveda part two

Hello again curlies!
 In an  Ayurvedic hair care regimen
you must have discipline and do treatments consistently for best results. If you are able to incorporate the practices faithfully then you are on your way to having healthy hair. I plan to try and do a treatment at least once a week.

 Ayurvedic products include natural herbs and oils that help to thicken and strengthen the hair.
Here’s a few of the most commonly used Ayurvedic items for hair and a few of their benefits:

    Henna
        Natural way to color hair with red tones
        Conditions, thickens and strengthens hair
        Increases shine
        Loosens curl pattern
        Reduces split ends
        Alleviates dandruff and kills lice.
Amla
    Strengthens roots
    Defines curl pattern
    Promotes hair growth
    Strengthens hair
    Tones down the red in henna treatments and darkens hair
    Is a natural astringent

Neem
    Promotes smooth, shiny hair
    Anti-fungal, anti-bacterial
    Alleviates scalp ailments like psoriasis, eczema
    Astringent
    Kills lice

Brahmi
    Strengthens roots
    Darkens hair
    Makes the hair denser and shinier
    Delays grey hairs
    Reduces hair loss
    Controls dandruff and treats eczema and psoriasis

Bhringraj
    Encourages hair growth
    Reduces hair loss
    Reduces shed
    Delays grey hair

Shikakai
    Cleanses hair
    pH balanced
    Detangles hair
    Strengthens roots
    Prevents dandruff
    Increases bounciness and silkiness of hair

Indigo
    Mixed with henna creates brown, black and blue tones in hair

Fenugreek ( Methi) seeds
   This natural herb boasts of very potent seeds that help treat balding, hair fall and thinning of hair. Not only is methi effective in treating baldness, but it is also beneficial in preventing dandruff.

Aloe Vera Gel - Promotes hair growth, balance PH level, heals scalp, imparts sheen, light conditioning properties, nourishes hair follicles, and scalp.

Bentonite Clay:  This clay works wonders for cleansing the scalp and producing healthy shiny hair. When combined with Aloe Vera Gel and Apple Cider Vinegar, it makes a wonderful natural clarifying shampoo.

Tips:
For maximum softness, I recommend doing Pre-Shampoo treatments before applying any type cleansing mixture [because the  treatments has a tendency to be a bit drying]. Simply oil your hair thoroughly with Coconut Oil, cover with a plastic cap, and allow to sit for about an hour [or more if possible], then rinse w/lukewarm water.
There are sooooo many herbs and natural remedies to choose from for great hair so do your research and find what works for you!

What Ayurvedic practices do you incorporate in your regimen?

Please take note that information is from websites based on Ayurveda  and  product contents also, I ask about these products when I purchase them as well. This page is not advice, it's my own hair care routines and findings. Much blessings and love to you beautiful curlies!

Until next time,
Stay Natural....Stay Magical
Xo Xo - Marlene Louw

Ayurveda part one

Hello again curlies!

Ayurvedic regimens are effective, and easily customizable to suit your hair needs. Most importantly, the ingredients are inexpensive and all natural. I have decided to break this post into several parts as not to overwhelm/bore anyone out there.

  I'm keeping it simple because the subject of  Ayurveda can get deep, and I'm not a hair professional or guru. I like keeping things simple.
If you follow me on Instagram, then you may already come to know that I have incorporated some Ayurvedic hair treatments to my regimen. Ayurvedic hair treatments consists of natural herbs and powders that give stronger, thicker and healthier hair. This is great for me especially since my hair sheds every time I wash it.
Benefits - Strengthens hair
Reduces hair loss
Thickens hair
Conditions the hair
Aids and restores shine
Eliminates dandruff issues
All the ingredients are Cheap! ( bonus points)  and all natural. Most ingredients and herbs can be purchased at your local Indian stores. I purchased some Amla powder, Mendhi powder, Brahmi powder and Moringa powder. I did the tea rinse and already see a difference after doing it three times. I plan to introduce more Ayurvedic remedies to my regimen.
Do your research and find out what works best for your hair. Most of these treatments can be used as a facial mask too! You can mix and match these herbs and powders according to the needs of your hair. Experiment and have fun, this is what a hair journey is all about.

So, have you tried any Ayurvedic hair treatments?
Until next time -
Stay Natural , Stay Magical
Xo Xo  -  Marlene Louw

Natural hair lingo

Hey there curlies!

The natural hair community has a language of their own. Here's a list of terms  that are frequently used.

ACV - Apple cider vinegar
BC - Big Chop
Co- Washing - washing your hair with conditioner only
DC - Deep Conditioner
HG - Holy Grail, products that your hair absolutely loves
Dusting - a very light trim
EVOO - Extra Virgin Olive oil
Porosity - Your hairs ability to soak up moisture
Creamy crack - describes relaxers
Manipulation - the amount of time you spend styling or touching your hair
PS - Protective Styling, hairstyles that protects the ends of your hair from breakage and exposure to the elements such as the weather and clothing
Sealing - ( seal the ends)  to seal in moisture to your hair usually with an oil or butter
Slip - How well a product allows your fingers or comb to 'slip' or glide through your hair
TWA - Teeny Weeny Afro
WNG - Wash and Go
APL - Arm Pit Length
Baggy - A method to help reduce breakage and dryness, after moisturising at night, put a shower cap on overnight
EO - Essential Oils
EVCO - Extra Virgin Coconut Oil
Pre - Poo -Coating the hair with a mixture of oils or conditioner before you shampoo
HHJ - Healthy Hair Journey
HIH - Hands In Hair, to play with your hair all the time
SLS - Sodium Lauryl Sulphate
Transitioning - a process in which you take steps to stop relaxing your hair
Regimen - Your day to day or weekly hair care guide.

So, I hope this list is helpful to you. Please feel free to add more if you have any more. Check out my Facebook page here for more Hairspiration...

 Stay Magical
Xo Xo -