Hair/Skin/Product Q and A: Answers ToYourMost FAQ's

About Restoring Hair's Texture
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Q: So, my Straight, Wavy, Curly hair is now a Cottony-Spongy wreck ala Albert Einstein (or say, Mr. Heat Miser). Is there anything that I can do to restore my original texture?

A: Condition, Condition, Condition! And although health issues can temporarily affect your hair’s appearance and texture, your hair texture from birth, typically, is permanent (i.e., if you were born with hair that is Straight, Wavy, Curly, Coily, Cottony, Spongy- type hair, it is still Straight, Wavy, Curly, Coily, Cottony, Spongy- type hair) and can be restored (although there are a few instances in which long term illness, immuno-disorders or other hormonal issues can permanently alter hair’s appearance and/or texture).

The main goal regarding hair maintenance is manageability, and the more conditioned your hair is, the (softer and longer and) more manageable it will become, despite the injury to your hair contributing to its current condition/appearance. Also, if age and hormones are playing a role, try to drink more water, eat healthier, exercise, and take a multi-vitamin (Liquidvitaminstop.com) to support your immune system.
**


About Growing Out A Relaxer or Texturizer
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Q: Over the years, due to illness,  my natural hair has has lost it's curl and the texture has become more cottony, so I decided to relax and now I think it was a mistake. I have long hair and everyone says i need to cut my hair to grow out the relaxer... What can I do to save my length?

A:
While it is easier to simply cut the chmicals out of your hair, you don't necessarily have to. It will take longer to grow out the chemical service, but protective styling (2-strand-twists), silk scarves and wigs will allow you to grow the chemicals out of your length naturally, over time and achieve even longer hair lengths without the shock of a major buzz/haircut. Typically, you will need to allow yourself at least 3-4 years to achieve chemical-free waist length hair, so, it will take time, patience and a lot of conditioning, but it can be done.

And as far as your hair changing texture due to illness, it is possible that your curls will return as your health improves, but as previously stated, the main thing in achieving healthier hair that is softer, longer and more manageable is establishing and maintaining a healthy, long-term care regimen (deep conditioning and protective styling (no-extensions)-).
**

About Salon THINNING/Has Your Stylist Thinned Out Your Hair???!!
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Q: Has Your Stylist Ever Thinned Out Your Hair Without Your Permission ???!! - I went in for a hair cut, but they thinned it out in the process. I wanted a new style, but I didn’t want thin hair…

A: Okay, POINT BLANK: Anyone who wants to thin out your hair without permission is trying to put one over on you. If your hair is thinner (or shortened without permission--) when you leave the salon (or wake the next day), call the Police. Because, If you are talking about a razor cut-- that is not thinning, it's just a cutting technique (although, we suggest that ladies avoid cutting hair, very short altogether-as long hair is actually easier to maintain). And hair does NOT actually have to be thinned out to achieve the full-on razor cut look.

But, you must give your permission, not only for your hair to be cut, but also, for the type of cut you receive. And they must ask you if it is okay to use any type of technique and fully explain what it will or won't do to your hair. And any stylist who refuses to consult with you first, or explain what they would like to do to your hair is the wrong styist (and it is okay to just get up and walk away--at least you will still have your hair)

Now, If a stylist starts off their consult by telling you they want to remove some of the bulk or thickness (by thinning it out), then that is your que to leave and find a new stylist. In what normal world would anyone's hair be considered too thick???!! Note: It's so important to communicate clearly with anyone you are allowing to style or/and cut your hair. And to make clear, exactly, what services you actually do or don't want from them. Have you ever seen those makeover shows and the person's hair was ruined.... That is crimminal, because even if it's a gift service, at the end of the day, You are the client, it's Your hair, so YOU call the shots in the chair.It's important to remeber that Stylists live on repeat business and some stylists are less ethical than others in how they undertake securing that repeat business. And in order to create a need for repeat business, sometimes, some stylists will offer to do (or simply do) things that you don't actually need done to your hair, and that includes certain types of chemical services or cuts that you can't actually maintain, yourself--or have to keep having touched up at the salon in order for it to 'look-right' So, be aware of anyone who tries to style your hair without specific direction and LIMITS from you... They may have their own personal agenda-- and this is a serious problem. ETA: And also, COUTURE cuts are not supposed to (and will not) leave you with damaged hair or thinned ends ...models and other people wear wigs for a reason---and not just for fun, -- (sometimes they are hiding an injury...) and razoring does not remove bulk. Also, Layering is not a razor cut per se, but you get the idea...
However, it is important to note that no-one has the right to pressure you into something you do not want (i.e., hair cut, chemical service, tan-spa, etc.), for any reason (whether, because they think it's a good idea, or to advance your career in a so-called younger market, etc)--it's a form of assault...

The good news is that it WILL grow back. Use of protective styling or/and wigs will allow your hair time to recover from the unwanted cut results.

[Reference to; 'Gender-Battery™' (a type of battery in which a person has been attacked to their person (i.e., hair, skin, (including the face, oral cavity/mouth, body) in some way) (this and other phrases 'Gender Battery' as well as this and other (more detailed) definitions (including 'Parenthal-Brackets™' [ - ] -trademarked by J. Johnson-and may not be reproduced without expressed permission except by Medical (MD) and Legal professionals (JD/investigating officers) only in the due course of an official/formal determination and rendering of such opinion as appropriate.-- all rights reserved)].

AboutAlopecia-Areata and Other Types of Alopecia Crisis…
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Q: Are There Any Non-Surgical (Medical) Treatments for Hairloss and Do They Really Work???

A:
Yes, in the case of very mild hairloss, corticoseroid injection therapy can be administered to stimulate re-growth in the affected area/s.

Monthly corticosteroid injections may be needed for up to 6months or more (usually you will see regrowth after 4-6 treatments, but many have complained that unless you are paying cash most derm’s are stingy with this treatment (and tend to push the pricey hair-replacement surgery—although successful, is quite pricey and may not be covered by insurance-even if you are a determined to be good candidate).

However, Areata is a condition that can disappear permanently/spontaneously at any time, or may require periodic lifetime maintenance, and these injections ARE covered by insurance, so it is a viable option for those whose hairloss is less than 20%. In cases where hairloss exceeds 15%, the combination therapy of Anthralin1% (brand name Psoriatec, a potent topical medicine—the Anthralin is very strong and can only be left on for up to 20-40minutes at a time used as directed. A light coating of olive oil may be applied to the scalp about an hour or so prior to Anthralin application as a protective base—it nourishes and protects the skin, but doesn’t prevent the medicine from penetrating) plus the monthly corticosteroid injections triamcinolone (brand name Kenalog) once every 4 weeks for up to 4-6months or until regrowth has been established.

**It is however, important to note that, in the case of long term hairloss that is unresponsive to steroid-injection therapy, wigs are an option and micro-FUT/FUE hair restoration/transpant surgery is also an option to consider, especially if your long-term quality of life is at issue.-- there are a number of hair restoration clinics (Foundhair.com, Hairclub.com, etc.)**

Alopecia-areata is generally characterized by one or multiple localized areas of complete hairloss (with the initial Alopecia-Areata lesions appearing as smooth bald patches of variable size with or without ‘exclamation mark’-esque stubble (on or at the periphery) ) and that sometimes may spread throughout the entire scalp or body as in Alopecia-Totalis or Alopecia-Universalis. The recurrence rate is 30 percent and recurrence usually affects the initial area of involvement. Notably, individuals with Areata are not always good candidates for hair restoration surgery because the hairloss is not permanent and can be recurring. So, even if the surgery is a success, hairloss can recur as Areata is the result of an auto-immuno disorder.

Traction-Alopecia is a temporary condition generally caused by stressful styling and is most common among women of African or Asian ancestry (who practice traditional complicated styling practices and maintenance, although research has shown that any overly tight styling practice can cause this to happen). Though for the most part, if the hairloss is slight, Traction-Alopecia can be successfully treated with corticosteroid injection therapy if treated within 5-years of occurrence. However, if there is no response to treatment within 12 months, then most likely, restoration surgery will be required.

Alopecia totalis is when the entire head of hair falls out.

Alopecia universalis is when the entire body (head and body) loses hair completely.

Toxic-Alopecia usually affects those who have a serious medical condition such as cancer or are undergoing intensive medical treatments, or are pregnant or have recently given birth.

Androgenetic alopecia is male-female pattern baldness, a genetic balding issue that up to 40% of all men and women suffer.

Alopecia is treatable, and in some cases spontaneous recovery is possible, but in any form may become permanent if not treated within 16months of initial hairloss, has recurrent overlapping cycles and/or if stressful styling practices are not discontinued by the patient.

**Spontaneous Recovery of most forms of alopecia usually occurs within six-to-twelve months, but severe episodes may take as long as twenty-four months or even longer (with hairs in areas of regrowth sometimes being pigmented differently).

Treatment:
Monthly cortisone (steroidal) injections is a medical treatment that is used to treat both, Areata-Alopecia (chronic/recurring hairloss) AND non-scarring Traction-Alopecia (style related hairloss from use of chemicals, braid-extensions, other extension styles, as well as overly tight ponytails and other tight or complicated style maintenance, etc). In general, 4-to-6 monthly sessions of injections are required to see any change and in more severe cases, it may require even longer periods of treatment (if you require more than 3 or 4 rounds of treatment and/or your doctor refuses to continue with your therapy, just seek another physician and rotate doctors, to prevent an unwanted break in treatment).

Best (Alopecia-Areata) combination therapy recommendation: steroid injections, used in combination with Anthralin, an anti-psoriatic topical, is a good choice for those with extensive disease (multiple or very large areas/patches of hairloss).

About Immunomodulators
Corticosteroids**
Anthralin (Anthra-Derm , Dithro-Scalp)**
PUVA / psoralen plus ultraviolet A.
Contact sensitizers (experimental)
Dinitrochlorobenzene
Squaric acid dibutyl ester**
Diphenylcyclopropenone

Cortisone treatments are used for both mild and excessive hairloss. Interlesional injections are often used at stages where a patient is only losing patches of hair (while pills take a more aggressive route if the condition becomes more severe). Cortisone is injected into the bare skin on the scalp, in the hopes that it will stimulate growth in these areas. Although injections aren’t preventative they are often successful at producing new hair within four weeks. Due to the aggression of cortisone pills, however, you should fully research the side effects and success rate before trying them.

Anthralin (an antipsoriatic) in combination with injectable/topical corticosteroids is a good choice for use in mature children and adults with extensive disease because it is relatively easy to use and clinical irritation may not be required for efficacy. Anthralin is a powerful synthetic substance that is used in a cream or ointment. Although it can be applied daily to bald patches, Anthralin often cause irritation and discoloration of skin. The process of stimulating new hair growth is longer with Anthralin, taking 8-12 weeks.

Immunotherapy is a very serious and potentially harmful way to treat the Alopecia-Areata disease. This method employs chemicals like Diphencyprone (DPCP), and Squaric acid dibutyl ester (SADBE) to stimulate an allergic reaction in your body. Although effective in stimulating hair re-growth, it is a long process that produces uncomfortable allergenic conditions in the body.

Note: It is also a good idea to increase your B-vitamin intake and vegan protein intake as well (lots of soy (tofu), veggies, beans (pinto, kidney), fruits, water, etc.).

In Cases of Androgenetic-Alopecia (male-female pattern baldness) or other forms of permanent hairloss, surgical replacement/transplantation will be required.

For more information about hair restoration surgery (for men or women) search online and try: Foundhair.com, Hairclub.com, Nuhart.com, Mhtaclinic.com, etc...

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The Great (Quality Of) Product Debate
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Q: Are Products really formulated specifically for either European or African or Latino or Asian or Mixed ethnicities hair issues..?

A: No. And in truth, it's not so much that it 'is' than the simple unpleasant fact that most manufacturers simply use substandard ingredients in products that target specific ethnicities (i.e., John Q. Public).

The proper way to look for your products is to find what your particular hair needs are (dry, oily, curly, straight, wavy, cottony, spongy, etc.) and look for ingredients known to benefit and/or compliment your hair's unique needs and go from there.

The best thing to do is to always check the ingredients, and look for stylers and cleansers with less than 12 total ingredients and that contain gentle, all-natural ingredients.

We Highly Reccomend The Following Natural Brands:

Aubrey Organics
Dr. Bonner's
Qhemet Biologics
Karen's Body Beautiful

*and similar natural hair-care brands that don't use sulphates or petroleum/mineral oils or other harsh ingredients or chemicals (Although cheapie brands like Suave work for those who are unconcerned about ingredients but still want 'results').

But, just try to remember, most people buy poorly formulated products out of a lack of information, but fortunately thanks to more boards like this and books we now have more information and a more comprehensive point of reference as consumers.

**********
Online Shopping Links
---------------------------------------
Q: Where can I find products online?

A:
(OCF™) Q!HB™ : Quintessentials!™ Health and Beauty Depot/i-Shoppe™
VitaminShoppe
FromNatureWithLove
MountainRoseHerbs

About Homeopathic Treatments for Hair Growth
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Q: Do Homeopathic/Natural Solutions Really Stimulate Hair Growth?

A: Yes, there are a few natural treatments that really work.

Specific recipe recommendations can be found online at youtube.com and in Goddess Hair and Skin Recipe Book (Amazon.com).

1. The Onion Juice [Sulfur] Overnight Treatment (onion juice is extracted and applied to scalp and hair and allowed to remain overnight and shampooed or co-washed out the next day; this treatment encourages hair growth and is also recommended for damaged hair).

2. The Onion Paste [Sulfur] Overnight Treatment (onion juice is extracted and applied to scalp and hair and then remaining onion pulp is pureed allowed and layered onto hair over juice as mask and allowed to remain overnight (under disposable/plastic conditioner cap) and shampooed or co-washed out the next day).

3. Yogurt Deep Treatment (Greek yogurt is applied to clean hair in sections and allowed to remain on hair for up to 1 hour; this treatment is recommended for damaged or shedding hair issues.).

4. Mayonnaise-Egg Protein Deep Treatment (Egg is mixed with mayonnaise (and yogurt) and applied to clean hair in sections and allowed to remain on hair for up to 1 hour; this treatment is recommended for damaged, bleached or shedding hair issues.).

5. Nutritive Scalpdress (equal parts jojoba oil, olive oil, wheatgerm oil, and a few drops each of -rosemary oil, peppermint oil, tea tree oil soothes dry scalp issues and stimulates follicular activity over time; apply with dropper).

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I Want That Hair!
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Q: How can I get my hair to look like the wavy and curly hair models in hair magazines?

A: Wel, the simple fact of the matter is that unless your hair already is wavy or curly, you can’t. Those models (even the ones with natural curls, waves) have professional stylists to help achieve the desired look for the editorial. The key to great hair is to stop trying to emulate everyone else’s look, so that you can discover and learn to cater to your hair’s distinctive, natural characteristics (whether straight , curly, wavy, fluffy/cottony or somewhere in between) in a way that is uniquely flattering to you. And that only takes patience, good product choices and a gentle, disciplined healthy hair care regimen (tailored to suit your hair care needs and goals/length). Now in terms of growing longer lengths, everyone inherently has the natural potential for long flowing (waist-length and/or beyond ) hair length/s (i.e. if you have even one ancestor that had long hair you have the genes for growing very long hair --even those with auto-immuno disorders). Contrarily/Otherwise, a solid protective hair styling regimen will ensure that you yourself can achieve what genetics does not (i.e., flowing head-of-hair as long as you want according to your own personal standards of/for desired hair length).

Finding A Salon Specialist
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Q: How can I find a salon/stylist that specializes in my particular hair-type?

A: Many sites (including ours) have salon listings or recommendations that can be used as a general guide when searching for a specialist. In some cases, you may have to register to view these listings.


For Salon Listings, try:
Onlinecliniqueforum.forumotion.com
Naturallycurly.com
Salonseeker.com
Treasuredlocks.com
Relevant Links :
Salon Services
Barber Services
(OCF™) Q!HB™ : Quintessentials!™ Health and Beauty Depot/i-Shoppe™
             

Texturizers/Perms/Relaxers and Hairloss
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Q: My hair is breaking off something awful. I used to have really healthy, full hair, then I wanted to go natural, so I chopped it all off. But, after a few months, I really felt like I couldn't deal with that "awkward hair stage" while, trying to grow it out. I really wanted to go natural, but unruly, short hair just looked so weird and unflattering on me. So, I started using light texturizers on my hair, and it looked great, at first, but now, after the third or fourth time texturizing, it’s becoming very dry and brittle and because it keeps breaking off, IT WON'T GROW! My hair is so fragile right now, but I need to do something to it, –So I just want a gentle relaxer that will help me get my hair back in order… Are there any brands known for being gentle on hair over long-term, use?

A: First, and most importantly, if your hair is damaged, breaking or falling out, the last thing you want to do is apply chemical stylers (colorants, texturizers, relaxers, perms, etc.) to your already fragile hair.  

Give your hair a chance to recover by doing a few deep treatments (try the onion juice overnight pre-treatment, and yogurt deep conditioning treatment or the egg protein treatment ; or if you don’t have a lot of time to make your own treatments, you can also try conditioners that treat damaged hair issues like, Aubrey Organics GPB/Glycolic Protein Balancer, or Aphogee 2-Step Treatment, or Aubrey Organics Blue-Gree Algae Hair Mask –just do a honey-olive oil pre-treatment for 1hour first and then wash or co-wash before you apply the deep conditioner).

You don’t have to make a drastic cut to ‘go-natural’, you just have to stop-using-chemicals on your hair (you can grow it out gradually at your own pace if the big-chop is too much of a shock). Also, try protective styling with wigs and silk scarves to give your hair a chance to rest from style stress as well. Your hair will recover, but it will take time.

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The Aging Effect : Myth or Fact?
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Q: How and Does the aging process affect/change your natural appearance over time?

A: OK-- Truth be told, even in good health, no one retains their youth forever. However, how we live will greatly determine how we age. Ideally, in good health, People’s looks DON'T change so much with age/maturation, as they become more enhanced. i.e., ref: Lena Horn/e, Sharon Stone, Pierce Brosnan, Phil Morris, W. Brad Pitt, Archibald Leech (bka Cary Grant) and Clarke Gable, Michelle Pfeiffer, Racquel Welch and Dorothy Dandridge, all maintained a certain quality of what their best look is/was through healthy living and without surgical enhancement -. P.S. : If you should see a shocking or bad photo of a maturing good looking person, regardless of their age, now, it is true that we're not all photogenic (regardless of how we look in person), but there may be other (declining) health factors involved.

It is important to note, however, the key to preservation lies in quality of living, meaning that most people who have a more youthful appearance typically avoid the traditional vices, such as drugs, alcohol, excess junk foods in the diet. Committing to exercise (esp walking cardio), nutrition and eco-friendly living/habits only supports that type of qualitative longevity. But, just because you may have enjoyed excesses in the past does not mean that you cannot get your body on the right life-fitness track and undo some of the past damage by forging ahead with a new healthy diet and lifestyle. The rest of everyone's life begins, today.

About HYPERPIGMENTATION
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Q: Does laser/bleaching successfully treat/minimize hyperpigmentation issues?

A: Hyperpigmentation can affect anyone, but is more noticeable in more deeply pigmented individuals (say deeper honey tones (Type-2) and medium to deep in general (i.e., Types 3 & 4 natural skin tones/types (in the medium to deep side of mocha tones), as well as Type 5-skin (ebene/ebony tone). While, Bleaching creams may temporarily lighten the skin,  unless done indefinitely, bleaching will not permanently lighten the natural skin coloration.

In naturally deeply pigmented patients darker than natural type I/1 (porcelain fair—the whitest/fairest among all skin types) or type II/2 (honey tone-light tones), Vitiligo related Hyperpigmentation in such cases where the patient is deeply pigmented (Types: 2,3,4,5) only Tanning/re-pigmentation therapy would be used to blend the discolored spots to the original pre-existing natural dark tone/type as in uva/uvb-type therapy or sunless tanner in the appropriate honey to brown to black tones depending on any other influencing health factors to treatment
(NOTE: In porcelain (type-1) or very light tones (Type-2), the affected area/s may be bleached Although faux tanners are a temporary option for all skin tones...But, as a general rule of medical thumb, neither lasering and bleaching are used to address hyperpigmentation in porcelain or very light skin tones and tanning (uva/uvb) bed therapy would be used to address hyperpigmentation in more deeply pigmented and darker skin tones (Types 2, 3, 4, 5) as they tan naturally very easily and any potential bleaching if any/if possible would be negated (and short term at that).  


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About PEELS and LASERS on Teen Skin
Q: Are medium-deep chemical peels or/and laser treatments safe for teenage skin types?

A: Chemical Peels and Lasers work to remove uppermost layers of skin by way of inflicting what is essentially a type of controlled burn. For best results, either of these therapies are best suited to maturing skin that has had time to age, as in adults over the age of 30. Pubescent skin (ages 13-20) is still developing physically, and can be harmed by such treatments, as can very young adult skin (21-24), which has not had enough time/life exposure to the elements to warrant such aggressive treatment measures. Unless there is a unique medical diagnosis that specifically warrants the use of such treatment, chemical peels and laser treatments should be reserved for more mature adults skin (as in persons over the age of 30 or 35). Generally speaking, the best recommended treatment for younger skin with acne or hyper-pigmentation type issues would be organic medical-grade microdermabrasion (using medical-grade sodium bicarbonate).

Healthy Basic Skin Regimen for Any Age
Treating Acne and Dry to Normal Sensitive Skin
Weekly use of Buf Puf and Hydra Gloves to exfoliate
Cleanse with Natural Cosmetics’ Raw Handmade African Black Soap (Mon,Wed,Fri,Sat)
Cleanse with Kirk’s Original Coco-Castile Fragrance Free Soap (Tue,Thu,Sat,Sun)
Moisturize with 2-step method first apply Whole leaf Aloe Vera Gel to skin and then apply layer of all-natural Coconut Oil blend (Coconut oil + Castor oil + few drops Vegetable Glycerin)
and then follow with Badger SPF 30 All-natural Sunscreen

Treating Acne and Oily to Normal Sensitive Skin
Weekly use of Buf Puf and Hydra Gloves to exfoliate
Cleanse with Natural Cosmetics’ Raw Handmade African Black Soap (Mon,Wed,Fri,Sat)
Cleanse with Kirk’s Original Coco-Castile Fragrance Free Soap (Tue,Thu,Sat,Sun)
Moisturize with 2-step method first apply Whole Leaf Aloe Vera Gel to skin and then apply light layer of all-natural jojoba-oil blend (Jojoba Oil + Whole Leaf Aloe Vera) and then follow with Badger SPF 30 All-natural Sunscreen

Note: for cystic acne issues, use light Salicylic Peel every other week, and topical isotretinoin (Accutane-Rx) as needed.

Seeing Red: Henna vs Commercial Color (The Great Debate Continues)?
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Q: My hair is currently a medium-to-medium-light brunette and sometimes depending on the light looks/appears to be somewhat naturally highlighted. Kinda from brownish streaks to maybe more coppery? Ive never dyed my hair... --but, anyhoo, I'm thinking of taking the plunge and dyeing my hair red. Do you think it would look good on me (i’m naturally medium-light skinned, maybe it won’t matter), but I was wondering, What shade would ya'll suggest?

A: A chestnut-brunette isn't too dark, so you can achieve some fairly nice natural-looking subtle, highlights, but, I shouldn't think you'd need to use anything more than lemon juice to get nice streaks, as it is already fairly light from your natural brunette (blackHair) color but, , although as you describe, it is in the medium brunette family (really dark *average* hair won't turn/lighten on it's own just as *average* medium light, color, say light-ish/wheat brown hair won’t darken or lighten (or really go classic 'yellow' (i.e., Surf-Blonde) or Platinum/White (i.e., True-Blonde) or Red (Strawberry or classic True-Red) on it's own without even more extreme bleaching measures than it takes to go Brown from Black in the first place ala a little help from (Clairol's?) 'Blonde & Lovely' , or maybe, MsRedTress) ,
BUT, getting to the point of the question at hand (by way of remaining on topic that is) , if a complete change in hair color is desired as opposed to say, simply doing a natural lemon spritz, and say the desired change/objective is to go really-really Red (or some kind of Blonde or true-darkest-velvet-Brown-Brunette OR true-Jet-Black-Raven-Brunette), standard, over the counter type hair dyes should be avoided, altogether. And depending on the natural hair color, (all natural) Henna (or Henna + Indigo) might be worth a try if you really want to give it a go. -- Now, if you're not into the whole organic thing, (and say, maybe you’re just one of them old-schoolerie/a-glutton-for-hair-punishment,types, or maybe, just addicted to the old-hydo-peroxide-bottle-blonde look (you know the one, like ‘grandma’ or the Nanny use to wear…), try maybe a salon consult and then you can decide if you want them to do whatever it is you are considering to your hair or maybe give the old Hennalucente a try... but, regardless of if you want to have a professional-in-salon-commercial-color treatment OR something else, Henna will still do the job in two -three uses over three months or so, although without the potential abrasive style shock of any potential nasty chemical-styling overbite).
[/color]
The best in-salon-colorist-specialists can be found:
1). Los Angeles, CA (Beverly Hills area-salon-neighborhoods and/or West Hollywood area-salon-neighborhoods only) –if you’re vacationing/visiting from out of town, start in the 90210 area of salons and go from there…
2) New York , NY (New York City :: bka :: Manhattan County) – OK-- (now, those from Manhattan/NYC, NY will understand this one right off--) , start in 10010 (Gramercy) area of NYC and go from there (although in NYC, you may have to go a bit uptown (near upper east to near upper west between 2nd and 5th avenue or Park and 7th avenue) ), say, to a-John Barrett-type-salon, possibly, or maybe a bit further, You may have to go a teeny bit up, but unless you’re going downtown to the business district area (say near you the old Weitz and Lux Building), you don’t ever want to go too far down/south in salon-neighborhood-searches (i.e., farther south than 18th street in Manhattan, say to the village—stylists tend to be more into trendier looks) and not higher/further south than say, 72nd street and 2nd avenue (gets a bit trendy past/above/north of 75th as well and (you want a chic, conservative, couture color))… It’s a long (New Yorker’s story)….But, you’ll get there… But be sure to ask if they have a portfolio of clients who went lighter from brown to red or to yellow blonde and also those who went darker from sandy/light brown to red also, this will give you an idea of their ability to give you the quality of the look you want without frying your hair…know what I mean..?

Good luck to you.

The best site to try for quality henna and henna recipes is:
Henna For Hair
http://www.hennaforhair.com

The Great (Quality Of) Product Debate
-------------------------------------------------------

Q: Are Products really formulated specifically for either European or African or Latino or Asian or Mixed ethnicities hair issues..?

A: No. And in truth, it's not so much that it 'is' than the simple unpleasant fact that most manufacturers simply use substandard ingredients in products that target specific ethnicities (i.e., John Q. Public).

The proper way to look for your products is to find what your particular hair needs are (dry, oily, curly, straight, wavy, cottony, spongy, etc.) and look for ingredients known to benefit and/or compliment your hair's unique needs and go from there.

The best thing to do is to always check the ingredients, and look for stylers and cleansers with less than 12 total ingredients and that contain gentle, all-natural ingredients.

We Highly Reccomend The Following Natural Brands:

Aubrey Organics
Dr. Bonner's
Qhemet Biologics
Karen's Body Beautiful

*and similar natural hair-care brands that don't use sulphates or petroleum/mineral oils or other harsh ingredients or chemicals (Although cheapie brands like Suave work for those who are unconcerned about ingredients but still want 'results').

But, just try to remember, most people buy poorly formulated products out of a lack of information, but fortunately thanks to more boards like this and books we now have more information and a more comprehensive point of reference as consumers.

**********
Online Shopping Links
---------------------------------------
Q: Where can I find products online?

A:
(OCF™) Q!HB™ : Quintessentials!™ Health and Beauty Depot/i-Shoppe™
VitaminShoppe
FromNatureWithLove
MountainRoseHerbs

About Gender-Battery™ Injuries:
What To Do and/or Where To Go ...??
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Q: What is it, really and What is the Appropriate Measure to Address This Type of Issue????

A:
If you're still not sure what it means, if someone played a (so-called) prank OR maybe your stylist cut your hair, gave you a spray tan, etc. without your permission, or maybe you're an actor and they pressured you into tanning or a hair cut, etc... It's a form of harassment And assault and should be prosecuted that way (as hazing is illegal)... For a more known point of reference, remember the time when the studios painted Lena Horne in black face when she appeared in films like Stormy Weather because they wanted to make sure it was clear to the southern movie-going consumer (lynch mobs) from the Jim-Crow law-era that she was a person of mixed or other African ancestry as the love interest in the film, just as the rest of the cast was...? (never mind that (mixed) Black ethnic groups come in all hues/complexions, etc...Although Lena Horne is naturally very fair in complexion, but the insult was rendered with the desired effect no less)... And remember that movie when just the opposite was done when the two guys were painted up by the studio in lightface (White chickssas or something of the sort), and lets not forget other historical figures, like Cleopatra, the African Queen known for her flame red hair and fiery temper and malcolm X (of mixed ancestry who went on to lead the African revolution in America)....But, you get the idea... Those that choose to tan or change their hair or alter their appearance of their own accord, great, however, if the stylist wants to try something out you didn't ask for or want, it's assault and if the casting director on set pressures you to try a different look, it's harassment and battery, plain and simple (to put someone in blackface or whiteface for that matter).

With regard to reporting Gender-Battery™ (and other stalking related injuries), It is important to make a police report and describe the injuries in long/complete detail (and if they are not helpful, put it in writing and hand it in in person--the police cannot refuse to make a report)-- Suppose your dormate played a prank on you, i.e., your long-straight-head-of-hair has been attacked (with scissors and rubbing alcohol (to lend the appearance of frizzy-to-fuzzy-to-curly-tangles, etc..), or your curly/cottony/fluff has been flatironed straight, and your skin has been attacked with Mystic, Aveeno (or some other brand) faux tanner/body paint --you have been assaulted. you have the right to file a formal complaint.
If said injuries continue it is stalking and assault. it does not matter if the person was someone you know playing an unfunny joke or a stranger (say, your new stylist--it's more than a mistake, it is a crimminal liability), it is important to report and also followup with your Medical-Dermatologist or Medical-Internist as well, so they can file a medical-rape-battery—injury-report, which will appear in your medical records as well as your other records on file locally with general lawenforcement.

And be sure to include ALL injuries- (to hair, skin (face and body, and including any injuries to the oral cavity/teeth and to diligently note and report if these injuries are recurring.


[Reference to; 'Gender-Battery™' (a type of battery in which a person has been attacked to their person (i.e., hair, skin, (including the face, oral cavity/mouth, body) in some way) (this and other phrases 'Gender Battery' as well as this and other (more detailed) definitions (including 'Parenthal-Brackets™' [ - ] -trademarked by (me) J. Johnson-and may not be reproduced without (my) expressed permission except by Medical (MD) and Legal professionals (JD/investigating officers) only in the due course of an official/formal determination and rendering of such opinion as appropriate.—Relating to this and other works by J. Johnson regardless of publication status or public status or OTHER status, ANY and ALL Rights RESERVED (en perpetuity, emeritus)]. Cc: KCR & JJ/R

Top Sleek, Fluff (Cottony to Spongy), Wave and Curl Defining Products, EVER!
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(BTW: **Posted Without Regard To Ingredients, SO Bear With Us...)

1. [Edible] Organic Aloe Vera As Styler 1abc, 2a, 3a
2. [Edible] Organic Aloe Vera As Nourishing Leave-In 1abc, 2abcd, 3abcd, 4abc, 5abc, 6ab
3. Jojoba Oil + Water 1abc, 2abcd, 3abcd, 4abc, 5abc, 6ab
4. Olive Oil + Water 1c, 2bcd, 3abcd, 4abc, 5abc, 6ab
5. KCCC: Kinky Curly Curling Custard 2bcd, 3cd, 4abc
6. Garnier Fructis Soft Curl Crème 2bcd, 3bcd, 4a
7. Graham Webb Making Waves 2ab
8. Loreal Out OF Bed 2ab, 3ab
9. Aveda Be Curly 2bc,3ab
10. AG Re:coil 2bcd, 3abcd, 4a
11. Tigi Catwalk Curlesque Curls Rock Amplifier 2b, 3abc
12. Ouidad Curl Quencher Moisturizing Gel 3ab
13. Sta Sof Fro 2d, 3cd, 4abc, 5abc, 6ab
14. Carol’s Daughter Hair Milk 2d, 3cd, 4abc, 5abc, 6ab
15. SheaMoisture With ALOE 2d, 3cd, 4abc
16. Luster’s Pink Lotion 2d, 3cd, 4abc, 5abc, 6ab
17. Long Aid Aloe Vera Gel 2d,3cd,4a
18. Salon Selectives Loosely Defined 2cd, 3cd, 4a
19. Karen’s Body Beautiful Hair Milk 2bcd, 3abcd, 4a
20. Qhemet Biologics Honey Hairbush Tea Gel 2cd, 3bcd, 4a
21. IC Fantasia [Clear] Gel w/Sparkle-Lites 2d, 3cd, 4a
22. IC Fantasia [Green] Gel w/Olive Oil 2d, 3cd, 4ab
23. Softee Curl Activator Gel 2d, 3cd, 4a
24. BNS: Black-N-Sassy Wrap Set 2cd, 3bcd, 4a
25. BNS: Black-N-Sassy Creamy Set 2cd, 3bcd, 4a
26. Eco Styler Krystal Styling Gel 2cd, 3cd, 4ab
27. Eco Styler Gel w/Olive Oil 2cd, 3cd, 4ab
28. Homemade Flax Gel 1abc, 2abcd, 3abcd, 4abc

About Dreadlocks
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Q: How Do You Go About Starting Dreadlocks (and Is It Realistic To Maintain)?

A:
According to sites such as NaturallyCurly.com, it IS possible to start and maintain your dreadlocks yourself with such styles as Palm coils or even Two-Strand Twists. There are a few critical styling points to remember, however, such as, the base/part of each lock should be at least the thickness of a number-2-pencil. Your dreads can be neatly manicured and small, but remember, if they are too thin, your hair will break and if they are too thick they will be too heavy pull/put pressure on the scalp in that area also causing damage and unwanted breakage. To Google examples of great dreads, search actress
Lisa Bonet (c. 2012) and vocalist Eric Benet (c.1999) and musician/director Rob Zombie (c. 2000) they make a great visual reference point whether you prefer fine manicured dreads or more free-form locks.  

Some parts of your hair will loc faster than others. It’s important to be patient with your locks, everyone goes through an awkward stage of locking in the early stages of dreadlock formation. It will pass when locks set and begin to acquire length.

Once your dreads have set (time will vary based on hair type and length at time of initial locking), hair can be cleansed 1-2x weekly with a good anti-residue formula shampoo (avoid conditioning shampoos and heavy conditioners as they coat the hair and attract debris (lint, dirt), and dreads should be light, not heavy with product) as your focus will be on cleansing the scalp. And a light natural oil (such as jojoba or olive oil) should suffice as your conditioner. Gently pull apart your locks after a fresh shampoo to prevent fuzzies from setting in and locks from becoming joined and otherwise matted and stuck together. Avoid waxes, shea butter, cocoa butter, coconut oil, basically anything that is solid at room temperature (it will create nasty buildup within your locks that will never come out no matter how frequently or thoroughly you cleanse your hair, leaving you with hair that is clean on the outside, but heavy with dirt and build-up on the inside—clean locks should feel light and spongy, regardless of texture).

In the early stages of locking, hair can be kept neat and free of debris at night by sleeping with a silk scarf or pillowcase. Great natural cleansers to try are castile soaps (Liquid Castile Soap diluted with water) for squeaky clean results (although any solid clarifying shampoo can produce results) followed with a little jojoba oil + water spritz for condition and shine.

You will find that whether you live an organic lifestyle or work in a conservative, corporate environment, everyone can wear locks that are both stylish and professional.

Dreadlock Salon Services @
http://www.naturallycurly.com
http://salons.treasuredlocks.com/natural-black-hair-care-salons.php
http://www.tkeyah.com/naturalhair.htm

Atlanta (Georgia)
Oh! My Nappy Hair
237 Mitchell Street
Atlanta, Georgia 30303
404-221-8900

Brooklyn (New York)
Khamit Kinks
400 Atlantic Avenue
Brooklyn, New York
718-422-2600

Chicago (Illinois)
Amazon Salon
5548 S. State
Chicago, Illinois 60621
773-256-0500

Chatto’s Salon
102 E. Oak Street
Chicago, Illinois 60611 ** ask for Theo Adjaye
312-640-0117

Misunderstood Natural Hair
8245 S. Cottage Grove
Chicago, Illinois 60628 ** ask for John (loctician and stylist)
773-994-8788

Toss The Hair Salon
60 E. 13th (Between Wabash and Michigan)
Chicago, Illinois 60605 ** ask for Tamarra
312-296-3135  or  312-986-9877

Houston (Texas)
The Root of You Salon and Day Spa
5190 Buffalo Speedway
Houston, Texas 77005
(off Highway 59 on buffalo Speedway at Westpark)
832-778-1225

Uncle Funky’s Daughter
2446 Times Blvd.
Houston, Texas 77005
713-528-0888

Oakland (California)
Oh! My Nappy Hair
1156 McKinnley Ave
Oakland, California 94610
510-465-4444

About Shopping Online for Hair & Skin Related Products
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Q: I have had a hard time finding vitamins, accessories and hair/skin products. What are the top recommended stores to find products, etc..?

A:
The Best Online Stores To Find Hair & Skin & Fashion Accessories Related Stuff, Ever ! -Are As Follows:  
Amazon.com
VitaminShoppe.com
Liquidvitaminstop.com
Ewi.com
Vitacost.com
Fromnaturewithlove.com
Mountainroseherbs.com
Aubrey-organics.com
Anntaylor.com
Target.com
Oldnavy.com
Menswearhouse.com
Clothingwarehouse.com
Dungareesstore.com
Walmart.com
Hatsinthebelfry.com
Hatshop.com
Belisi.com
Voguewigs.com
Wigs.com
Wilshirewigs.com
Wowwigs.com
Wigsdepot.com
Bestwigsoutlet.com
Rickysnyc.com
Sallybeauty.com
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Also:
Ann Taylor
Marshall's
Burlington Coat Factory
Men's Wearhouse
Target
Forever 21
Black Seal (Formerly Strawberry)
Daffy’s (NYC-Midtown)
Fox’s Designer Clothing (Chicago-Near North)
Dungaree’s (Studio City/Calabasas-CA)
Sally Beauty
Ricky’s Beauty (NYC)