CurlReading / Tips

CurlChemist: Humidity, Humectants and Hair

Humectants are used in skin and hair-care products to promote moisture retention. These hygroscopic compounds posses a chemical structure that attracts water from the atmosphere and binds it to various sites along the molecule.

Naturally Speaking: Sandy’s Position on her Transition, Part II

The instructions on boxes of chemical relaxers often say to wear gloves. That is because it contains chemicals that are caustic.

Naturally Speaking: Sandy’s Position on her Transition, Part I

The pros and cons of chemical relaxing is a touchy subject, especially in African-American circles where the ‘good-hair/bad hair’ myth unfortunately still exists.

Naturally Speaking: Take Special Care With Braids

Dr. Ford says that one of the ways to avoid getting traction alopecia is to vary the braiding style to keep from placing stress on the same areas of the scalp. She also recommends going to experienced braiders.

Curly Teen Scene: Tips for Bad Hair Days

Since I was little, a spray bottle has been my secret weapon. I fill it with water and add a little conditioner or frizz cream.

10 Time-saving Tricks for curlies to simplify your style in a snap!

Top stylists share their tress tricks in this time-saving guide that’s sure to help you get your glam on — and put time back on your side!

Making the Transition

Transitioning is about learning to accept the texture with which you’ve been born rather than trying to mold it into something else.

Summerizing Your Curls

If you swim a lot, make sure to rinse your hair with water before taking a dip, and put a little leave-in conditioner on it. This helps prevent the hair from absorbing the damaging chlorine. If you can bear it, wear a bathing cap. Periodically, use a shampoo designed to remove chlorine and mineral buildup.

Naturally Speaking: Mosetta’s Naturally Speaking: My 12-strand program

Now’s the time to make things right. Some of you may want to apologize to your own hair for addicting it to chemical relaxers—also known as ‘creamy crack’!

Curly Teen Scene: Take Some Time for Yourself, Girls!

Sometimes, slowing down a little is the best thing you can do. Some of the best hair-care treatments take the most time.