Sugar Plum Ballerinas

I came across these amazing children books by Whoopi Goldberg, they are absolutley adorable. If you have children or cousins or nieces they will enjoy this book. I have posted the three covers of what she has released so far. Stay tuned because am sure this book will turn into a bigger collection for her. Whoopi also has a collection of over books that you can find online, at your local book store, or amazon.com.

Whoopi also has numerous books including her book of manners you can find this and many more of her books at your local book store, chapters or amazon.com.

willow smith - whip my hair new 2010

I love this little girl. I have been noticing her the last little while. I saw a video of her singing a couple of months ago but never knew she got signed to Jay-z. I am a huge fan of Will Smith, I remember running home everday after school just to see his show Freah prine of Bel-Air. I am so please to post this song, I think she is absolutely adorable and am looking forward to see what her future holds.

Winterizing Natural Hair

source:chocolatevixxxen

Winterizing Hair:

It’s getting cold outside and I notice I have to put a lot of moisture back into my hair. Although the scalp does produce natural oils which can travel up to the ends of the hair and moisturize it, due to the curly structure of natural afro hair it is difficult for the oils to make their way from the roots to the ends of the hair. I try to drink a lot of water and eat a lot of fruits maintaining healthy nutrition. In the winter months you have to make sure that you remain gentle with your hair. For some of us it will require a slight change in your hair regimen as the elements of the weather can affect our hair. Hair like our skin can dry out due to the lack of water. Simply put good nutrition and proper hydration will keep your hair healthy through the winter months.

Nutrition:

Our hair contains protein and a diet low in protein can cause thinning and unhealthy hair. Nutrition is necessary in any climate but especially throughout the winter months. I have choosen to turn to flax seed oil, virgin olive oil, and soy products which I do throughout the year and borage oils provide natural waterproofing. If your essential fatty acid levels are low your hair will dry out. Flax seed oils and cod liver oil helps not only to clear your skin but provide hydration to you hair and can be helpful in many other areas of your body. Without essential fatty acids your hair can become every frizzy as well, this will appear in such styles as twists, braids, twist outs and braids out. Hair vitamins are also a great way to restore moisture back to our hair than using store brought products that may contain harsh chemicals.

Winter Hair Problems:

·       Freezing cold temperatures

·       Snow

·       Moisture levels in the air

·       Blowing wind

·       Scarves and hats

·       Hair being coat in coats

·       central buildings

Solutions:

·       Purchase a humidifier

·       Increase deep conditioning treatments

·       increase hot oil treatments

·       Oil/moisturize ends

·       Protect your hair with protective styling

Winter Hair Tips:

1)      A natural way to add moisture to your hair is a natural hot oil treatment once or twice a week. Let the oil sit on your hair to and then wash. This will put moisture back into your hair.

2)      Make sure that your hair is dry before heading out side, frozen hair in cold temperatures can lead to breakage.

3)     Protective styling will help to cover hair, retain length, and protect your hair against the elements.

4)      Shampoo less which will maintain natural hair oils and try co-washing, leave-ins every day and clarifying you hair more often. Excessive shampooing can lead to stripping of the hair and breakage.

5)      If you smoke cut back or better yet for your health quit.

6)      Reduce caffeine and carbonated drinks that can prevent hair growth.

7)      Avoid the use of hot water, hot blow dryers and other hot hair care tools. Washing your hair in hot water can damage hair and promote frizz, use Luke warm water for hair washing. Always make your final hair rinse is with cold water. Cold water seals the hair`s cuticle.  This will allow I personally have choosen not to use any heat in my hair for the next year.

8)     Try a weekly scalp massages to stimulate follicles.

9)     Do not rub your hair together this will create tangles, make sure to comb hair with a wide tooth comb.

10)  Use a deep conditioner on your hair regularly and make sure to moisturize your ends frequently to prevent fairy knots.

Fairy Knots:

11)  If your ends are destroyed get rid of them.

12)  Drink enough water, if you don’t eat a lot of fruits drink at least 6-8 glasses a day.

13)  You can hydrate the hair by spraying some water on the hair before bedtime or prior to combing. It will help the hair hydrate itself. I always spray my hair with water before combing. It is manageable and soft.

Using the Right Products:

·       Use products made for natural hair or afro textured hairs that are made with natural products

      to help your hair stay moisturize and retain its health.

·       Avoiding using petroleum-based products which will clog up your pores.

·       Use a good leave in conditioner: Carol`s Daughter, Organic root stimulator. I am a do it         

      yourself-er so I enjoy making my own leave in conditioner.

·       Stay away from alcohol based products like hair dyes.

·       Look for products made from olive oil, Shea butter, jojoba oil. This fall and winter I am

      sticking to these oils to help me through the winter months. For some people Shea butter can have adverse effects in the winter months. I have found that when you mixed together with the oils it works well for my hair.

Avoid the use of:

·       Isopropyl Alcohol

·       Methyl, Propyl, Butyl and Ethyl Paraben

·       Petrolatum and Mineral Oil

·       Sodium Lauryl Sulfate and Sodium Laureth Sulfate

Many people can have allergic reactions to these ingredients listed above.

Look for products that contain: rosemary, jojoba, olive, coconut

If you are a do it yourself-er then you will can have fun experiment with these oils to retain moisture and make leave-in with Shea butter. If you refer to my section on natural hair you are able to find information on oils that will be helpful if you choose to make recipes for your hair. Homemade Deep Conditioning

I have listed what works for me and many other naturals I have spoken to. It may not work for everyone. Some naturals have no problems with their hair and don’t require as much attention or change throughout the winter months. Find out what works for you, pay close attention to your hair.

Stay Beautiful!

Dejavunaturals

Dejavu Naturals video

Toronto Natural Hair show part 3- Caribbean dance "Bele"

Deja Vu Spotlight

Toni Daley

When I first came across youtube as a place of inspiration and connecting with other naturals, I never knew that people showcased their natural hair and art. Toni Daley is one of those inspirational naturals. From her hair, to her art work, to her jewellery, I LOVE IT ALL!! I am so excited to feature her as this weeks Deja Vu Spotlight. It is so well deserve, she is beautiful and inspirational. It took me a really long time to find a network of naturals in Toronto, Canada. It is so nice to have the opportunity to meet some of these ladies and showcase their artwork and love for natural hair.  Below I have listed where you can find her art work, her jewellery and her youtube videos. Enjoy!!

what inspires you about your hair?

I’m inspired by the versatility of my natural hair.  When I wake up I decide if its going to be straight, slicked, coily, kinky or all of the above! 

What inspired you to go natural?

I actually was not inspired to go natural.  I went natural by accident after wearing extensions for 2 years!  When I took my braids down I liked what I saw.  After being natural for years I now know this was considered “transitioning”  but at the time I simply wanted to wear braids!

How long have you been natural?

About 5 years

How has the journey been for you?

It’s been fun!  I’ve met people I wouldn’t have met otherwise.  I’ve learned to do things I wouldn’t have learned otherwise.

Hair care:

What is your hair regimen?

I cowash a couple times a week and use shampoo only when I feel I need it.   I deep condition at least once a month.

What products works for you and you love?

My hair and I both love 100% raw unrefined shea butter, it works great at improving the elasticity in my hair, I use it on a daily basis on its own and I even mix up my own whipped shea butter mix.  I also love organic root stimulator hair mayonnaise as my deep conditioner, my hair always feels happy after using it.

Art:

How has your hair inspired you art?

My art is inspired by beauty….I find beauty in all things in every day life but since I am surrounded by a strong network of natural black beauties….my art often reflects my strongest influences.

Where else can we view your art collection?

 www.fotki.com/tonidaley

Advice:

What advice would you give to someone thinking about going natural and youtubing their journey?

To someone thinking of going natural I would just encourage them to be patient ….some products will fail, and some styles will go horribly wrong, but if you hang in there, you will find exactly what works for you. If you are thinking of documenting your journey on youtube just be yourself. J

When did you fall in love with you hair?

It was the first day I wore my natural hair out. After my accidental transition I kept my hair natural but covered under half wigs and braids.  It was one evening in between “sets”  I had just taken a set of braids down and deep conditioned my hair but I felt like trying something new so I decided to go to the beauty supply store. Since it was close to closing time I decided to skip my half wig and pulled my hair into a puff.  When I got there, a woman approached me and said those 4 magic words…..” I love your hair”  It was then that it dawned on me….that was the first time, I had been complimented on MY hair.  Don’t get me wrong, I’d gotten that compliment before…I’d heard those words often….but always while sporting braids or twists or weave or a phony pony.  This time was different….it was all me.  I smiled, and said thank you….i love my hair too. And I meant it.

Youtube:

Why youtube?

I’m a do-it-yourselfer and youtube is visual learners manual. From hair to make up to products to around the house projects….. I can literally type in anything and find a tutorial on it!

Why is it important for you to share your story on youtube?

I started making videos as a way to display my art….but once I found the natural youtube community I was hooked.  We encourage one another and learn from one another and inspire one another.  I love truly my youtube family!

Tees:

Youtube Channel: http://www.youtube.com/user/tonidaley80
If your interested in purchasing her art, jewellery or creative tees at: http://www.etsy.com/shop/AFroDisiacs

Stay tune...I will be doing a giveaway on her laser cut teak wood earring!!! As a thank you to all my readers!!

Empower, Embrace, Create, Unite

Dejavunaturals

Natural Inspiration - Fashion Fridays

I know sometimes having great hair means having a great style to compliment who you are. I came across some amazing style. Everyday is a day to experiment with your style and try something new. I always love when I see men or women dressed with an eye for style and fashion. It is such as amazing thing to see . Add colour to your life if you havent already done so, include some accessories they can compliment a plain outfit. Feel free to be you. As always I love to inspire my readers so I decided to do something little different today and post some ladies and fellas that have some amazing style....enjoy!!

Her Style...I love them all

And Now the men.....

These fellas have some serious style that I am in love with. They also have a blog. I came across their pics and had to share this with you guys:

Beautiful Black Men

Street Etiquette

source: kinks and curls, chocolate vixxxen, harlem loves, kurlykinkykeekeers, street etiguette

Why isn't my Hair growing?

source: chocolatevixxxen

Why isn’t my hair growing?

This article is a result of a conversation I had with a beautiful member of Deja Vu Naturals on facebook regarding hair that isnt growing. Although I did answer her question with a lengthy follow up I decided to further look into hair that wont grow even when you have done all you can. There is always something you maybe overlooking when it comes to natural hair that is not growing. I am going to start this article by going over a few tips so you make sure that you are first and foremost doing the right thing to start or continue on your journey to healthy natural growing hair.

1) Do not use any harsh chemicals on your hair. If you are, consider the damage it may be causing to your scalp and hair. Stay away from peroxide and relaxers if you want healthy natural hair. 

2) If you decided to colour your hair use Natural henna, however frequent over use of henna can cause damage to your hair.

3) Stay away from sulphate shampoos which will dry your hair out and leave it brittle and prone to breakage.

4) Co-wash- I personally enjoy co-washing my hair because of the results I have. It has helped to retain moisture.

5) Remove build up- Apple Cider Vinegar is a personal favourite and it does work to not alone remove build up but detox your hair as well.

6) Remove knots from your hair easily by using a good conditioner.

7) Use cold water to help your cuticles lay flat and prevent breakage.

8) When drying your hair pat your hair gently, never rub your hair against itself. This is will cause damage.

9) While your hair is still damp apply a water base product, this can be aloe, water mix and a leave in conditioner. Then apply an oil based product such as castor oil, almond oil and Shea butter. This will help seal the water base product into the strands.

10) Drink lots of water to help retain moisture.

11)  Deep condition your hair your hair regularly.

12) For dry hair try using jojoba oil since it is the closeest oil that resembles the sebum our sebaceous glands secrete. It is also great for conditioning.

13) Damaged hair must be removed; there is no way to repair damage hair.

14) Trim your ends often and use good tools.

15)  Never comb or brush dry hair! Use a Denman brush or wide tooth comb when   your hair is wet. (Well this is something I live by, but I leave the decisions to you)

16) Do loose styles that allow your hair to breathe, say no to tiny braids, tight puffs or ponytails, to prevent thinning edges or sides.

17) Do your research and become familiar with the ingredients in your products, whether they are store brought or homemade. Once you become familiar with this your able to choose products and ingredients that is best for your hair type.

18) Avoid using heat, no curling irons, hot rollers, flat irons, crimpers or blow dryers. Try to do this only on special occasions.

19) If you’re going to wear accessories in your hair make sure they are safe. Don’t use rubber bands, metal barrettes, anything with sharp edges, rough edges, hair claws or metal hinges.

20) Avoid chlorine and saltwater, however if you do decided to go swimming make sure to clarify your hair right away. If you swim frequently invest in a good swimming cap, you might also want to deep condition while wearing this for a great heated deep condition, as the swimming cap generates a lot of heat. This will protect your hair.

21) Sleep with a silk bonnet every night, and pillow cases.

22) Some have suggested that even silk will dry out hair as all fabrics do. I have yet to prove this but will look further into this. I heard that using plastic will prevent your hair from drying out and causing split ends.

23) Maintain a healthy lifestyle!!! You might want to try a hair vitamin (I do suggest something natural like a multivitamin or if you need more fatty acids or omega 6 cod liver oil and flax seed), drink eight glasses of water, eat fruits, vegetable, and nut, exercise regularly to provide good circulation to the scalp.

24) Try to find natural alternatives to store brought products that are damaging to your hair.

What to know

Understand that Hair grows, but there are many reasons as to why you may be having problems with your hair growth. Black hair tends to be the most fragile of all hair types, especially if your hair is tightly coiled every twist and turn is a weak spot. We shed on average fifty to hundred hairs per day; this is why it is important to understand your hair type to better care for your hair. Hair grows four to six inches a year, half an inch a month, although some have shown to grow as much as an inch per month. This may vary from person to person as your hair may grow faster or slower depending on your overall health and genetics. Here are a few reasons as to why your hair may have slow hair growth:

·       Damage follicles

·       Taking certain medications

·       Unhealthy lifestyle

·       Hard water

·       Over moisturising (can clog your pores)

·       Harsh shampoos and conditioners

Remember that once your hair has grown out it is up to you to retain length. I have stated before that protective styling and paying close attention to what your hair needs will help you keep your hair.

Three stages of hair growth:

Growing- hair is actively growing from scalp

Resting-hair is longer actively growing and is just sitting on your scalp.

Shedding-hair dies at the root, and a new one is waiting to take its place. 

Always keep your hair clean, a dirty scalp prevents growth.

Cutting damage hair improves our appearance and  manageageability  by preventing tangled ends and spit ends from moving up the hair shaft.

Q&A:

What if my hair is permed do I have to do the BC?

I have known people that have been able to grow out the perm naturally. This does take a very long time and the results may require a lot of patience. The BC chop I believe is a personal choice that every one woman needs to decide for herself and what will work best for her. I believe you confidence, health, patience and knowledge as a lot to do with the overall appearance of your hair and the decisions you make regarding your hair.

Is hair a living tissue?

No, Hair is dead. Our hair cannot repair or regenerate itself once it’s damaged. These products that claim to do so may only eluded the hair for a while, however, once damaged the hair will eventually break causing split ends or worse. It is wise to just remove damage hair.

What is the Cuticle?

It is the outer layer of the hair. It protects the interior Cortex layer and contributes to 20% of the overall strength of the hair.

What is the cortex?

The cortex contributes to 80% of the overall strength of the hair. It is the middle layer and gives the hair strength and elasticity.

What is the medulla?

It is the innermost layer that plays a minor role in hair colouring. It can also be absent from the hair.

What determines thick or fine hair?

Thick or fine hair is determines by the diameter of the hair shaft, and genetics.

What about Density?

Is the number of hairs per square inch, ranging from thick to thin. You can have a lot of hair in density but very thick in diameter, while someone else can have fine hair but a lot in density.

What is Porosity?

Is the ability our hair has to absorb moisture. Natural hair can be very porosity absorbing moisture very easily.

  

Stay Beautiful!!!

Dejavunaturals