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22 February 2012

TUTORIAL: Natural Hair Style for 4B Hair (Wedneday, 22 February 2012)
	Is your hair a Natural type 4B and you struggle with style options? Then I present to you a brief tutorial for a beautiful flawless puff style that takes little effort but looks amazing! Because no matter how stubborn you think your hair is, this style is guaranteed to make you look great, boost your confidence and turn a few heads as you walk down the street! Not only will I include the link to the video, I will show you the best way to achieve this style! This style is for grown ups and children alike and will work well on hair that's long enough to put in a bun.
It will also work very well with type 4A hair or even women with relaxed hair doing a stretch out (subject to a few adjustments). The steps below are for women with Natural Type 4B hair. I’ve made this style ‘SweetSable^TM safe’ so you’re not only guaranteed to look good, you’re also going to do it as safely as possible! SO READ THESE STEPS before you watch the video: 1. Prep the hair by pre-conditioning, washing and post-conditioning your hair preferably AT NIGHT (NEVER start any washing cycle without first combing your hair through and washing in 4 sections – you are taught this on the 3-month hair growth course – call +447956 180 783 for enquiries about it). Pre-conditioning, washing and conditioning instructions are in the Black Hair Growth Secrets – Revealed book (given away free on the course). 2. Natural Type 4B hair will shrink down but this is natural and perfectly normal. Towel dry by patting each of your 4 sections of hair dry, as gently as you can to remove excess water. In the palm of your hand, mix a dollop of my yummy SweetSable^TM Creamy Moisturiser (call +447956 180 783 to order), with some serum and a few drops of your favourite oil (I personally like jojoba but there’s also Sweet Almond Oil, Olive Oil, etc) and apply to your hair. The creamy moisturiser will add moisture, the serum make your hair easier to separate and the oil will add some extra sheen. 3. Comb each section with a large tooth comb – gently. If you combed your hair thoroughly before you applied your pre-conditioner (like the SweetSable^TM Avomeg or SweetSable^TM Edge Restorer – call +447956 180 783 to order), you will find this step relatively easy and stress-free. 4. Divide each of the 4 sections into at least 2 sections so you end up with at least 8 sections. Twist OR braid each section neatly (I feel that the more twists or braids you do the better the curl definition). NOTE that braids should never be too tight. 5. Go under a hood dryer for the amount of time it takes your hair to dry under one of these. (this will depend on length, density whether or not you have hair colour, etc). 6. Re-apply SweetSable^TM Creamy Moisturiser and serum. 7. Cover hair in your favourite scarf and go to sleep 8. In the morning, undo the braids/twists (NOTE that twists might be a little quicker) and separate each one with your fingers. 9. Comb/brush the edges of your hair with a comb/soft brush to tidy up the edges all around. 10. Wet down your edges with water in a spray can (spray cans are available from SweetSable^TM) and apply an alcohol-free, non-flaky gel or gelwax (e.g. Eco Styler gel is becoming popular and there’s also the VO5 Extreme Style gelwax). 11. You can apply with your fingers or smooth the gel/gelwax over your brush (like you would toothpaste on a toothbrush – we also have safe, damage-free edge-preserving brushes available at SweetSable^TM – call +447956 180 783 to order) and smooth into your edges. 12. Use a stocking (pantyhose) or one leg of old tights to tie the hair back and hide the ends by pinning it down with a bobby pin. 13. Fluff out your hair at the ends some more. 14. Tie a scarf round your edges as seen in the video to smooth down the edges further. You can use a blow dryer to dry the gel/gelwax and the water – this shouldn’t take you more than 5-10 minutes (don’t worry this is ok because the heat is not making direct contact with the hair…but if you want ZERO heat, you can leave out the blow dryer. 15. Remove the scarf, add a clip at the side as seen in the video (this step is optional) and voila! Beautiful hair! 16. Maintain health and curl definition by twisting at night with SweetSable^TMCreamy Moisturiser with some water and serum. You should be using the SweetSable^TM moisturiser at least 2-3 times a day – once in the morning, once in the afternoon and once at night. Check out the Youtube video tutorial here (will open up in a new window...NOTE mstanish1 doesn’t necessarily follow the SweetSable^TM system so be sure to adjust the steps in the video with the steps and products above) ========================================================= Got a comment about this blog? The click here to contact me now on contact me here

TUTORIAL: Natural Hair Style for 4B Hair (Wedneday, 22 February 2012)

Is your hair a Natural type 4B and you struggle with style options? Then I present to you a brief tutorial for a beautiful flawless puff style that takes little effort but looks amazing!

Because no matter how stubborn you think your hair is, this style is guaranteed to make you look great, boost your confidence and turn a few heads as you walk down the street!

Not only will I include the link to the video, I will show you the best way to achieve this style! This style is for grown ups and children alike and will work well on hair that's long enough to put in a bun.

It will also work very well with type 4A hair or even women with relaxed hair doing a stretch out (subject to a few adjustments). The steps below are for women with Natural Type 4B hair.

I’ve made this style ‘SweetSable^TM safe’ so you’re not only guaranteed to look good, you’re also going to do it as safely as possible!

SO READ THESE STEPS before you watch the video:

1. Prep the hair by pre-conditioning, washing and post-conditioning your hair preferably AT NIGHT (NEVER start any washing cycle without first combing your hair through and washing in 4 sections – you are taught this on the 3-month hair growth course – call +447956 180 783 for enquiries about it). Pre-conditioning, washing and conditioning instructions are in the Black Hair Growth Secrets – Revealed book (given away free on the course).

2. Natural Type 4B hair will shrink down but this is natural and perfectly normal. Towel dry by patting each of your 4 sections of hair dry, as gently as you can to remove excess water. In the palm of your hand, mix a dollop of my yummy SweetSable^TM Creamy Moisturiser (call +447956 180 783 to order), with some serum and a few drops of your favourite oil (I personally like jojoba but there’s also Sweet Almond Oil, Olive Oil, etc) and apply to your hair. The creamy moisturiser will add moisture, the serum make your hair easier to separate and the oil will add some extra sheen.

3. Comb each section with a large tooth comb – gently. If you combed your hair thoroughly before you applied your pre-conditioner (like the SweetSable^TM Avomeg or SweetSable^TM Edge Restorer – call +447956 180 783 to order), you will find this step relatively easy and stress-free.

4. Divide each of the 4 sections into at least 2 sections so you end up with at least 8 sections. Twist OR braid each section neatly (I feel that the more twists or braids you do the better the curl definition). NOTE that braids should never be too tight.

5. Go under a hood dryer for the amount of time it takes your hair to dry under one of these. (this will depend on length, density whether or not you have hair colour, etc).

6. Re-apply SweetSable^TM Creamy Moisturiser and serum.

7. Cover hair in your favourite scarf and go to sleep

8. In the morning, undo the braids/twists (NOTE that twists might be a little quicker) and separate each one with your fingers.

9. Comb/brush the edges of your hair with a comb/soft brush to tidy up the edges all around.

10. Wet down your edges with water in a spray can (spray cans are available from SweetSable^TM) and apply an alcohol-free, non-flaky gel or gelwax (e.g. Eco Styler gel is becoming popular and there’s also the VO5 Extreme Style gelwax).

11. You can apply with your fingers or smooth the gel/gelwax over your brush (like you would toothpaste on a toothbrush – we also have safe, damage-free edge-preserving brushes available at SweetSable^TM – call +447956 180 783 to order) and smooth into your edges.

12. Use a stocking (pantyhose) or one leg of old tights to tie the hair back and hide the ends by pinning it down with a bobby pin.

13. Fluff out your hair at the ends some more.

14. Tie a scarf round your edges as seen in the video to smooth down the edges further. You can use a blow dryer to dry the gel/gelwax and the water – this shouldn’t take you more than 5-10 minutes (don’t worry this is ok because the heat is not making direct contact with the hair…but if you want ZERO heat, you can leave out the blow dryer.

15. Remove the scarf, add a clip at the side as seen in the video (this step is optional) and voila! Beautiful hair!

16. Maintain health and curl definition by twisting at night with SweetSable^TMCreamy Moisturiser with some water and serum. You should be using the SweetSable^TM moisturiser at least 2-3 times a day – once in the morning, once in the afternoon and once at night.

Check out the Youtube video tutorial here (will open up in a new window...NOTE mstanish1 doesn’t necessarily follow the SweetSable^TM system so be sure to adjust the steps in the video with the steps and products above)
=========================================================
Got a comment about this blog? The click here to contact me now on contact me here

30 January 2012

ARTICLE: 'Love Your Hair' Month (Monday, 30 January 2012)
	Here at Sweet Sable HQ, we’ve found our own way of celebrating this Valentine’s month by calling it “Love Your Hair” Month. Let me explain why loving your hair is very vital to the success of your hair growth regime. You see, love isn’t just a feeling – if it were, on the days you didn’t feel like exercising, you wouldn’t exercise. On the days you didn’t feel like going to work, you wouldn’t go. By the same token, on the days when you don’t feel like leaving the house without your weave/wig/extensions, you won’t do it. “But, Elizabeth – I have to wear my wig/weave/extensions! I work in an office so I have to look a certain way”.
I am not suggesting that you leave the house not looking your best. However, wigs/weaves/extensions are meant to be very temporary measures and must never ever become a permanent fixture on your head. If you started the year wearing weaves/wigs/extensions, then be determined to give them up by a specific time frame. Your own hair must be seen and celebrated at some point. Your own hair must be OR should be exposed. Your own hair needs air and needs circulation. So you’re not only giving up the weave/wigs/extensions for better self esteem but also for improved hair health. Now loving your hair must not mean spending HOURS on it…but the time you DO spend on it should be time well spent. When you love your hair, you would take the necessary actions to ensure that you are educated and kept up-to-date with what’s happening in the world of black hair growth. You would make it your business to know what the best products are for your hair type and its very own unique characteristics. You would couple your knowledge with ACTION. Actually DOING things to maximise or improve your hair growth potential is as important as finding out what needs to be done to maximise your hair growth potential. Knowledge is really only powerful when it is APPLIED. When you love your hair, you simply ENJOY it. You love taking good care of it. You take pleasure in doing what has to be done for it. Wanting to shave or cut off all your hair out of frustration is NOT a sign of love. (Please note that if you like to wear your hair short this is NOT a sign of frustration). Love doesn’t give up! So never ever give up! Your hair GROWS. You just need to maximise its potential with the ultimate weapon you have in your armour – and that’s LOVE ========================================================= Got a comment about this blog? The click here to contact me now on contact me here The 3-Month hair growth courses are running at half-price until Tuesday, 31 January 2012 @ 5pm GMT - both UK and International residents are welcome.

ARTICLE: 'Love Your Hair' Month (Monday, 30 January 2012)

Here at Sweet Sable HQ, we’ve found our own way of celebrating this Valentine’s month by calling it “Love Your Hair” Month.

Let me explain why loving your hair is very vital to the success of your hair growth regime.

You see, love isn’t just a feeling – if it were, on the days you didn’t feel like exercising, you wouldn’t exercise. On the days you didn’t feel like going to work, you wouldn’t go.

By the same token, on the days when you don’t feel like leaving the house without your weave/wig/extensions, you won’t do it. “But, Elizabeth – I have to wear my wig/weave/extensions! I work in an office so I have to look a certain way”.

I am not suggesting that you leave the house not looking your best. However, wigs/weaves/extensions are meant to be very temporary measures and must never ever become a permanent fixture on your head. If you started the year wearing weaves/wigs/extensions, then be determined to give them up by a specific time frame.

Your own hair must be seen and celebrated at some point. Your own hair must be OR should be exposed. Your own hair needs air and needs circulation. So you’re not only giving up the weave/wigs/extensions for better self esteem but also for improved hair health.

Now loving your hair must not mean spending HOURS on it…but the time you DO spend on it should be time well spent.

When you love your hair, you would take the necessary actions to ensure that you are educated and kept up-to-date with what’s happening in the world of black hair growth. You would make it your business to know what the best products are for your hair type and its very own unique characteristics.

You would couple your knowledge with ACTION. Actually DOING things to maximise or improve your hair growth potential is as important as finding out what needs to be done to maximise your hair growth potential. Knowledge is really only powerful when it is APPLIED.

When you love your hair, you simply ENJOY it. You love taking good care of it. You take pleasure in doing what has to be done for it.

Wanting to shave or cut off all your hair out of frustration is NOT a sign of love. (Please note that if you like to wear your hair short this is NOT a sign of frustration). Love doesn’t give up! So never ever give up! Your hair GROWS. You just need to maximise its potential with the ultimate weapon you have in your armour – and that’s LOVE
=========================================================
Got a comment about this blog? The click here to contact me now on contact me here The 3-Month hair growth courses are running at half-price until Tuesday, 31 January 2012 @ 5pm GMT - both UK and International residents are welcome.

9 January 2012

ARTICLE: Product Update (Monday, 9 January 2012)
Note about image: Our new Creamy Moisturiser now comes in a jar	If you’ve recently purchased the Black Hair Growth Secrets - Revealed! book, you will notice that some of the products listed at the back of the book are either: 1. No longer being manufactured OR 2. Have had the formula changed altogether We have recognise this issue and solve it by recommending products according to your hair type and texture on the 3-month hair growth course. This usually does differ to the list at the back of the book. Just so that you are aware, another book is being written with a list of updated products and will be out soon. However, in the meantime, if you are unable to the course which offers a more precise product match for your hair type and texture, then find below a more up-to-date list of 2 products mentioned in the book (as well as a new one not mentioned in the book) with their respective alternatives. Note that these products are designed for you if your hair type is 4B OR 4A.
Pre-Shampoo Conditioner/Treatment (Creamy) Instead of Superdrug’s Vitamin E All Over Body Cream Swap for Sweet Sable’s Edge Restorer Pre-conditioner (rrp £12.50 for 150ml). So far, our best-selling product, this is an organic product designed to combat the signs of baldness and retain moisture on very dry hair. Its main ingredients include: Water, Fatty Alcohols (these are good for the hair), Olive Oil (nourishing for the hair and scalp), Lavendar Oil (soothing and healing), Chamomile Oil (calms the skin down) and Vitamin E (good for skin regeneration). This pre-conditioner contains ZERO PETROLATUM, ZERO MINERAL OIL, ZERO PARABENS, ZERO SODIUM LAURYL SULPHATE and ZERO SYNTHETIC FRAGRANCE. Shelf-life is 9 months. To order call +44 7956 180 783. Pre-Shampoo Conditioner/Treatment (Protein) Instead of This is not mentioned in the current edition of Black Hair Growth Secrets - Revealed! Swap for Sweet Sable’s Avomeg Organic Protein Cocktail Pre-Conditioner (rrp £20 for 150ml). It is an organic high protein cocktail proven to help strengthen and restore hair in men and women especially when used in conjunction with the 3-month hair growth course or the Black Hair Growth Secrets - Revealed! book. It’s designed to combat baldness by delivering nourishment to the hair and scalp in the form of Essential Fatty acids, Vitamin E and K and Essential Proteins. This product is only available to UK residents only. Shelf life is 4 weeks (must be kept refrigerated). To order call +44 7956 180 783. Hair Moisturisers/Creams Instead of Paul Mitchell’s The Conditioner – Leave-In Moisturiser. Swap for Sweet Sable’s Creamy Hair Moisturiser (rrp £10 for 150ml)…water-based hair moisturiser with ZERO PETROLATUM, ZERO MINERAL OIL, ZERO PARABENS and ZERO SODIUM LAURYL SULPHATE. Shelf life is 12 months. Stops dryness. Use this non-greasy moisturizer at least 2-3 times a day on the hair only. Keep this off your scalp. You can use this with IC Fantasia Frizz Buster for shine. ========================================================= Until Tuesday, 10 January 2012 at midday, all customers get all 3 of SweetSable’s products (The Edge Restorer, Avomeg and Creamy Hair Moisturiser) for (~~£42.50 plus p&p)~~ £30 only plus p&p. Call 07956 180 783 to order (UK residents) OR call +44 7956 180 783 to order (International residents). Allow 7 working days for delivery if you live in the UK. International customers should allow 5 to 14 working days for delivery. If you’ve recently purchased the book and have questions on other products, then contact me here or simply call me on +44 7956 180 783.

23 November 2011

WARNING: Hair Colour (Wednesday, 23 November 2011)
	As reported recently by a national newspaper, a Caucasian mother recently fell into a coma following the use of a permanent hair dye produced by a big name hair brand. Although you’re probably thinking that this may not really affect you because you don’t use permanent hair colour, it’s still worth educating yourself the ingredient that could have caused the demise of this woman. It is believed that this woman had an allergic reaction to a chemical called PPD (Phenylenediamine), an ingredient found in most permanent or demi/intermediate hair colour.
Please note that some demi hair colours (which are usually labelled as being semi-permanent) are likely to contain this substance. NOTE that true semi-permanent hair colours (rinses) will not normally contain this substance. PPD is a colourless compound that reacts with the Oxygen contained in the Hydrogen Peroxide to give you a rich colour. You often see that extra shine in popular hair colour ads. Apart from the extra lighting and clever hairdressing with suitable products being used on the model, chances are PPD is responsible for that high glossy shine that you see. While a negative reaction to PPD is rare (it is said that 1 in 250,000 could have a bad reaction to it), it’s worth noting that the use of PPD in permanent hair colour (and more than likely demi-permanent hair colour) has given the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) and the EU (European Union) great cause for concern. PPD is banned in France, Germany and Sweden. It is NOT banned in the UK with the European Union allowing up to 6% of the hair dye to consist of PPD. PPD was originally introduced into society in 1890 for dyeing furs and feathers. It is believed that it can cause ailments ranging from a skin rash and asthma to gastritis and even death. It has been shown to cause cancer in some animal experiments and has been linked to cancer in humans. While you may or may not use permanent hair colour, it is worth noting that if you ever wanted to use hair colour there is help available in the form education that comes in the form of the Black Hair Growth Secrets – Revealed! book which has a whole bonus chapter (Chapter 8) dedicated to hair colour education. The 3-month hair growth course also offers up-to-the-minute guidance with regards to how to safely pick, choose and use hair colour no matter what your hair type is and which ones to avoid to protect your hair growth efforts as well as your health. If you have any questions about what you’ve just read, then contact me here or simply call me on +44 7956 180 783.

6 November 2011

BREAKING NEWS: Little Girl's Patch Disappears within 6 MONTHS!(Monday, 6 November 2011)
	How did this 6-year old from Hayes and Harlington have a stubborn bald patch fill up with hair in 6 months? Click here to see amazing pictures and read her Mum's account of how this girl, her sister and Mum achieved hair growth success!

BREAKING NEWS: Little Girl's Patch Disappears within 6 MONTHS!(Monday, 6 November 2011)

How did this 6-year old from Hayes and Harlington have a stubborn bald patch fill up with hair in 6 months?

Click here to see amazing pictures and read her Mum's account of how this girl, her sister and Mum achieved hair growth success!

24 October 2011

PROMOTION: Black History Month Event on Thursday, 27 October 2011! (Monday, 24 October 2011)
	Just in case you’re in the neighbourhood, why not pop into the African Caribbean Leadership Council in North London for a FREE 5-minute personal hair growth consultation on Thursday, 27 October 2011? In celebration of Black History Month, Kete-network is presenting a cultural evening of Afro-Caribbean song, drum, dance, poetry, storytelling, music and Harambe drummers. And I’ll also be on hand at my stall to exhibit my book, products and to give FREE 5-minute one-on-one consultations. So while you’re there be sure to come to my stall for a quick chat about your hair growth concerns and goals. I’ll be looking out for you! Date: 27th October 2011 Time: 6pm – 9.30pm Venue: African Caribbean Leadership Council 9 Clarendon Road, Hornsey Park Road, London N8 0DD Adults: £5 Children: £1 Food, refreshment, craft and books on sale

PROMOTION: Black History Month Event on Thursday, 27 October 2011! (Monday, 24 October 2011)

Just in case you’re in the neighbourhood, why not pop into the African Caribbean Leadership Council in North London for a FREE 5-minute personal hair growth consultation on Thursday, 27 October 2011?

In celebration of Black History Month, Kete-network is presenting a cultural evening of Afro-Caribbean song, drum, dance, poetry, storytelling, music and Harambe drummers.

And I’ll also be on hand at my stall to exhibit my book, products and to give FREE 5-minute one-on-one consultations.

So while you’re there be sure to come to my stall for a quick chat about your hair growth concerns and goals. I’ll be looking out for you!

Date: 27th October 2011
Time: 6pm – 9.30pm
Venue: African Caribbean Leadership Council
9 Clarendon Road, Hornsey Park Road,
London N8 0DD

Adults: £5 Children: £1

Food, refreshment, craft and books on sale

10 October 2011

BREAKING NEWS: Homemaker from Langley recovers hairline - in JUST THREEE MONTHS!!! (Monday, 10 October 2011)
	How did this stunning Homemaker from Langley get her hairline back after just 3 months? Click here to see dramatic pictures and read her amazing hair growth story now!

20 September 2011

FREE REPORT: More Weaves, More Problems (Tuesday, 20 September 2011)
	I really believe that one of the worst things to happen to the Black Hair industry was weaves! You don’t need weaves. They are weapons of hair (and scalp) destruction! I’ve heard clients tell me that they wore a weave and broke out in a rash or couldn’t stop itching their scalp and/or skin. This is not uncommon – your body simply does not like foreign objects and will indicate this with the itching and rashes. This is your own body’s defence mechanism at work. In spite of these issues, women continue to wear them. So let’s have a quick look at 2 reasons why women of colour continue to wear weaves and the 2 most common problems associated with weave wearing. Reason #1: Confidence booster When a woman of colour puts that weave on, she looks different and feels different. Suddenly, she’s like a better version of herself when she looks in the mirror (if the weave looks good). She walks down the street and heads are turning and the compliments are rolling in. There’s a bounce in her step as she walks – her confidence has been boosted by the weave. She smiles more, she's happier and feels good about herself. Wearing a weave can boost your confidence.
Reason #2: Conform to European Beauty Standards Another main reason why women of colour tend to wear weaves or do not wish to stop using them is because of the European beauty standards that they wish to conform to. This is why you will often hear comments like "I have to look a certain way when I'm at work". I certainly understand. Now that we’ve seen why women wear them, let’s look at some of the common problems that can arise with weaves. Problem #1 - The Itching Machine If your scalp is itchy then chances are its reacting to the weave or your scalp just needs a good old wash. But itching/scratching your scalp all the time should be taken seriously. Using an oil to soothe it is like trying to put a band-aid over a broken bone. If your scalp has been itchy since you put a weave in recently, then the itch is probably due to the fact that your scalp has become dirty and needs a wash or your scalp is reacting to the weave. If the itching persists even when you take the weave out and properly shampoo and condition your hair, then you may still have to seek medical help as something more serious may be going on. Problem #2: Baldness Over 30% of the women that come to see me have at some point worn a weave and have gotten their scalps and hair into a lot of trouble as a result. Weave wearing is one of the major causes of Traction Alopecia where the person suffers hair loss as a result of the weave being too tight or being removed from the hair without being gentle. The sad thing about this type of baldness is that it is HIGHLY preventable. If you first put a weave in and it’s so tight that you can’t sleep, then why continue to wear it? Common sense dictates that you really should remove it immediately! Again, this is your own body protecting your hair and scalp from serious problems later on life. ================================================================= If you have symptoms of Traction Alopecia or a stubborn patch that simply refuses to grow as a result of a weave accident or the constant use of weaves, then you will find the 3-month hair growth course very useful indeed. You should sign up for the 3-month hair growth course that will teach you, guide you in all hair wisdom for your hair type and texture and help to correct most hair issues early on. The course is one-on-one, can be started at anytime and will give you the exact blueprint that you need to bring out the potential of your hair growth in the quickest possible time. Sign up now as there is a special offer currently on and spaces are limited.

FREE REPORT: More Weaves, More Problems
(Tuesday, 20 September 2011)

I really believe that one of the worst things to happen to the Black Hair industry was weaves! You don’t need weaves. They are weapons of hair (and scalp) destruction!

I’ve heard clients tell me that they wore a weave and broke out in a rash or couldn’t stop itching their scalp and/or skin. This is not uncommon – your body simply does not like foreign objects and will indicate this with the itching and rashes. This is your own body’s defence mechanism at work.

In spite of these issues, women continue to wear them. So let’s have a quick look at 2 reasons why women of colour continue to wear weaves and the 2 most common problems associated with weave wearing.

Reason #1: Confidence booster

When a woman of colour puts that weave on, she looks different and feels different. Suddenly, she’s like a better version of herself when she looks in the mirror (if the weave looks good).

She walks down the street and heads are turning and the compliments are rolling in. There’s a bounce in her step as she walks – her confidence has been boosted by the weave. She smiles more, she's happier and feels good about herself. Wearing a weave can boost your confidence.

Reason #2: Conform to European Beauty Standards

Another main reason why women of colour tend to wear weaves or do not wish to stop using them is because of the European beauty standards that they wish to conform to. This is why you will often hear comments like "I have to look a certain way when I'm at work". I certainly understand.

Now that we’ve seen why women wear them, let’s look at some of the common problems that can arise with weaves.

Problem #1 - The Itching Machine

If your scalp is itchy then chances are its reacting to the weave or your scalp just needs a good old wash. But itching/scratching your scalp all the time should be taken seriously. Using an oil to soothe it is like trying to put a band-aid over a broken bone.

If your scalp has been itchy since you put a weave in recently, then the itch is probably due to the fact that your scalp has become dirty and needs a wash or your scalp is reacting to the weave. If the itching persists even when you take the weave out and properly shampoo and condition your hair, then you may still have to seek medical help as something more serious may be going on.

Problem #2: Baldness

Over 30% of the women that come to see me have at some point worn a weave and have gotten their scalps and hair into a lot of trouble as a result. Weave wearing is one of the major causes of Traction Alopecia where the person suffers hair loss as a result of the weave being too tight or being removed from the hair without being gentle.

The sad thing about this type of baldness is that it is HIGHLY preventable. If you first put a weave in and it’s so tight that you can’t sleep, then why continue to wear it? Common sense dictates that you really should remove it immediately! Again, this is your own body protecting your hair and scalp from serious problems later on life.

=================================================================
If you have symptoms of Traction Alopecia or a stubborn patch that simply refuses to grow as a result of a weave accident or the constant use of weaves, then you will find the 3-month hair growth course very useful indeed. You should sign up for the 3-month hair growth course that will teach you, guide you in all hair wisdom for your hair type and texture and help to correct most hair issues early on.

The course is one-on-one, can be started at anytime and will give you the exact blueprint that you need to bring out the potential of your hair growth in the quickest possible time. Sign up now as there is a special offer currently on and spaces are limited.

6 September 2011

WORLD EXCLUSIVE!: Woman Reverses Alopecia and Gains Length!!! (Tuesday, 6 September 2011)
	Be the first to read Sophie's amazing story of how she not only REVERSED symptoms of Alopecia but also gained an extra 3 inches of hair growth along the way! How did she do it??? Click here to see amazing pictures and read her story now!

16 August 2011

FREE REPORT: The Top 3 Things Every Woman of Colour Should Know About Her Hair – but probably doesn’t. (Tuesday, 16 August 2011)
	No #1 – Your hair is naturally dryer than that of other races The tight curl pattern of most women of colour makes the hair dry. In fact it has been said that combing the hair of women of colour can be likened to giving it a hair cut because it is so dry! But what can we do with hair so dry? Easy – moisturise it more! Now before you rush down to get the greasy hair cream you may have purchased from the black hair shop I must warn you that moisture isn’t grease and grease isn’t moisture. You must know the best ways of adding moisture to your hair for it to thrive.
No #2 – The ONLY reason hair breaks is because it is DRY. Hair breaks when it is excessively dry, damaged or abused. Your hair will not and cannot get longer if it is breaking off excessively. This is simply impossible! The ends of your hair are more likely to break off quicker than any other section of your hair. Why? Because they are the oldest – they have been around for longer, they have been exposed to more brushings, combings, blow-dryings and the sun. The only way to reduce or stop breakage is to engage in an excellent hair care program. No #3 – The excessive use of weaves can encourage baldness The pressure being put on women of colour by the media and the black hair shops to continue to wear weaves is excessive. It is understandable to wear wigs because you are recovering from Alopecia symptoms or because I’m helping you to reverse these symptoms. But starting to wear weaves is dangerous and non-profitable. Apart from the fact that you don’t really know where those weaves are coming from thereby leading to skin irritation, the hairdressers like it to do it tightly so it can last. This puts a lot of pressure on your follicles causing the follicles to be pulled out leading to Traction Alopecia symptoms. There’s also the problem of the weaves being removed carelessly by either the wearer or even the hairdresser. ========================================================================= To find out more about the ins and outs of black hair growth and how to avoid a lot of mistakes that women of colour make with their hair, then call Elizabeth now on +447956 180 783 for a FREE 5-minute consultation.

10 August 2011

Special Offer: The HOTTEST Deal of The Century! (Thursday, 11 August 2011)
	In celebration of my recent debut on the Loveworld Styling Programme with Stella that aired last Saturday and yesterday, I’m extending my special offer so that you or your friends or loved ones can benefit. The 3-month hair growth course is currently running at half-price (offer excludes products) and I have the gold, silver and bronze package deals available for you to save up to 28% on SweetSable^TMproducts – which work! These offers end midnight on Friday, 12 August 2011. For more information, go to: THE DEAL OF THE CENTURY!
PS - There will be another episode of Styling that will feature me talking about my products - coming soon!

29 June 2011

Relaxed Hair: How to stop breakage from Week 6 (Wednesday, 29 June 2011)
	So you bought the Black Hair Growth Secrets – Revealed! book and everything’s going very well with your hair so much so that one day (about 6 weeks after your last relaxer), you notice that your hair underneath is starting to get more and more difficult to comb. This is your undergrowth. All that undergrowth is a wonderful thing that can quickly turn into a big nightmare if not handled properly. You know you’re meant to extend your relaxer for as long as possible. Even really good hairdressers tell you this. You should only be having a relaxer done about 3-4 times in ONE year they say. So what do you do to extend that relaxer cycle without serious breakage?
Here are seven handy tips that will help you to prevent breakage when you are stretching out that relaxer and help you to enjoy your hair growth journey from Week 6: Tip #1 Divide the hair into 4 sections when you wash it: By doing this, you are only handling a quarter of your hair at a time. Keep it this way to wash it and post-condition it. Tip #2 Always comb the bottom: Some women I’ve spoken to that have read the Black Hair Growth Secrets – Revealed! book and are experiencing good results with their hair don’t like combing the undergrowth. It really has to be combed in order to distribute your natural oils properly. Tip #3 Leave the hair to dry before manipulating it: After you’ve rinsed off your post-conditioner, and patted the hair dry (it’ll still be damp though) and separated the hair underneath with an appropriate comb (don’t comb through to the ends of the hair, just separate the hair at the bottom), put a good moisturiser on the entire hair paying more attention to the hair at the bottom which will need that moisture and leave the hair alone. Don’t bother combing the hair when it’s still damp. Wait until the hair has absorbed the moisturiser and has dried BEFORE you start to comb the hair. Tip #4 Minimise washing and post-conditioning to just once a week: If you’re not too keen on spending more time on your hair (which is what will happen if you follow the above steps), then you can reduce the amount of times you wash your hair to just once a week so that you can avoid manipulating it so much. Tip #5 Aim to do more straight styles or non-fussy styles: Aim to have your hair styled straight (by wrapping…please avoid heat for styling). Or putting it away in a bun. You don’t have to have it straightened. Leave it alone as much as you can. During this time, I usually wear my hair in an unfussy bun created by air-drying or hood-drying the hair that already has lots of my moisturiser in it and slicking it back with my favourite alcohol/protein-free gel. No straightening, no blow-drying, no tugging, no fussing. Just tucked away until night time when it has to be released, moisturised and tied away to the top of my head for comfort while I sleep. Easy! Tip #6 You exercise more than once a week? Then consider cornrows: I like the idea of not-too-tight cornrows so that you can happily engage in your favourite sporting activities post-week 6. As you know, the sweat produced when you exercise must be washed off. Your usual washing and post-conditioning can prove to be challenging due to the styling that has to be done afterwards. So if your hair is already styled in cornrows you will have hardly any manipulation of the hair to do! You will literally, wash, post-condition and go! You can combine the use of the cornrow with a half wig or a full wig with lots of holes in the wig for air. Tip #7 Can’t stretch beyond the 6 weeks? In the public eye? Work on TV? Then go ahead and get your relaxer!: This is only if you are unable to stretch to beyond the 6-week period and you are simply finding it too difficult to handle. Of course there are additional things to this which you are taught on the 3-month hair growth course but I think the above steps will give you a rough idea of how to minimise or stop breakage from Week 6.

31 May 2011

First 10 women get a FREE Cathy Howse product! (Tuesday, 31 May 2011)
	If you’re not familiar with Cathy Howse, then let me introduce her to you. Cathy Howse is the mother of Black Hair Growth and has been in business for over 20 years selling her books and products which you may have seen in a few black hair magazines. When I met her at Afro Hair and Beauty yesterday, we hugged…it was like coming home! In an industry where our message is unique, our hearts are knit together because we share a common but very strong bond – and that is promoting black hair growth.
Now if you’re wondering what she’s like in person I’ll tell you now that she is very beautiful. Her skin is smooth and unlined and her hair? Her hair is very dark, luscious and LONG! I laughed as we were about to take this blog picture and she flicked her hair forward saying “Everybody’s got to see the hair!”…How true. Cathy’s message is still the same and hasn’t changed a bit – black hair growth is possible! The black hair industry is out to make you bald in the name of beauty and fashion. If it can’t achieve this with constant chemical treatments, it will try to achieve this with the weaves offered to cover up bald spots when you start to show symptoms of Traction Alopecia caused by the constant use (or should I say abuse?) of chemical treatments. But Elizabeth, your hair is relaxed!’ I hear you say. Indeed it is but I’m very careful about my exposure to a relaxer and if I could stop relaxing my hair tomorrow, I’d gladly do it. I stretch my relaxer out for as long as I possibly can (my last stretch was for 5 months) and Cathy’s products would be fabulous for you to use if you are trying to stretch out your chemical treatment or if you have natural type 4B hair. If you’re not sure WHY or HOW IMPORTANT it is to stretch out your chemical treatment then the 3-month hair growth course is for you. This is simply one of the things you will be taught on the course that will give you your own personalised hair growth plan. This is why I’ve decided that the next 10 women to sign up for my 3-month black hair growth course will receive at least 1 of Cathy’s products as a bonus on the course. This means that you will still receive 4 products as promised, but one of those products will be Cathy’s. The product provided will be matched to your hair type with instructions about the best way to use them provided for you while you’re on the course. CALL +44 7956 180 783 to find out more about the course and to get your free Cathy Howse product included in your bonuses. Offer ends TODAY, 31 May 2011 at 6pm. GOOD LUCK!

18 May 2011

Watch me AGAIN TONIGHT on Loveworld TV on Thursday, 19 May '11 at 12.30am!
	Being on Loveworld was an amazing experience. But if you missed the show on Saturday, you have another chance to catch it AFTER MIDNIGHT TONIGHT (you stay up on Wednesday night to watch it after midnight) AT 12:30AM GMT on THURSDAY MORNING. If you haven’t got access to Sky then you can watch it at the same time on www.loveworld.tv . Click on WATCH NOW when you are on the site (you can copy and paste this web address into your browser and bookmark the page ready for TONIGHT after midnight).
When I arrived on Saturday at the studio, I was greeted warmly by the actual producer of the show called Solomon. I went on the show to promote the 3-month hair growth course and talk about the various resources I provide to help you enhance your hair growth efforts for more pronounced results. This is a big responsibility and one that I take very seriously. Hence my appearance on the show. Lilian, my interviewer/host of the show was also very impressed by the book as were the other ladies in the studio. The interview itself (in front of the cameras) felt like I was at a seminar but this time, I was in front of many more women whose faces I couldn’t see. Afterwards, Lilian and I posed for pictures both in and outside the studio. I’ve included at least one of the pictures we took. If you have any questions, then please contact me now by calling +44 7956 180 783 or by clicking here to send me a message which I will respond to within 24-48 hours.

11 May 2011

Watch me on Loveworld TV on Saturday, 14 May '11 at 11:30am!
	I’m going to be interviewed on Loveworld TV (that’s Sky Channel 588) on the Totally Addicted Show that will air at the following times: 1. Saturday, 14 May 2011 at 11:30am (GMT) to 1pm (LIVE) 2. Sunday, 15 May 2011 at 10:30pm (GMT) (REPEAT) 3. Wednesday, 18 May 2011 at 12:30am (GMT) (REPEAT) On this show, I’ll be promoting the 3-month hair growth course and you will learn how you can use this to explode your hair growth potential!
If you haven’t got access to Sky then you can watch it at the same times (11:30am on Saturday, 14 May 2011, 10:30pm on Sunday, 15 May 2011 and 12:30am on Wednesday, 18 May 2011) on www.loveworld.tv . Click on WATCH NOW when you are on the site (you can copy and paste this web address into your browser and bookmark the page ready for 14 May 2011). Just in case you will be watching from outside the UK, our location will be London, UK and our timezone is GMT. You can work out what time this will be in your country by clicking here (new window) and put your corresponding time and day into your diary so you don't miss the show. In the meantime, if you have any questions about speaking engagements for your church group or group of friends, visits or the 3-month hair growth course,then please contact me now by calling +44 7956 180 783 or by clicking here to send me a message which I will respond to within 24-48 hours.

28 March 2011

Natural Hair Day on 26 March 2011 (Monday, 28 March 2011)
	This week's blog showcases what happened when I was invited along to a Natural Hair day event in London, UK. Read all about it here!!!

16 March 2011

Visiting Campaign in Zones 1 to 6 launched today! (Wednesday, 16 March 2011)
	SweetSable has recently launched a VISITING CAMPAIGN that ends on 31 March 2011. I visit your home, salon, church or group located in London within Zones 1 to 6 and talk to you about the possibilities of black hair growth for you, your family, your friends, relatives, customers, clients and congregation, etc. It is FREE of charge (if you book it by 31 March 2011 but it's on a first come first served basis so book early!!!) with no booking fees, speaking engagement fees or transportation fees. And yes it’s definitely worth having the whole family, relatives, friends round to make the most of my visit! The reason I’m making you this amazing offer is because I get asked to come and visit various areas very often. I’m aware that proper Black or Afro hair knowledge is scarce in certain areas so I’m willing to do what it takes to help you explode your hair growth potential! It is an opportunity for you to have your friends, family and clients round and let them hear the good news of Black Hair Growth.
It is beneficial for you and your family because I get to show you how to achieve growth whether your hair is natural, relaxed, texturised or in a Jheri-curl or coloured. You get to see me do a demonstration in front of you and your friends, family, clients and even do a quick strand test for you on request. My office is based in the North of London, England, UK. So this offer is free to you if you live anywhere within London from Zones 1 to 6. If you live outside of this zone (e.g. the South East, the Midlands, the North of England, Scotland, Wales, Isle of Man, Northern Ireland) the visit will still be free but all you need to pay for is the transportation charge for me and my assistant). Special arrangements will have to be made if you live in certain areas, such as outside England like Europe, USA and AFRICA and this is subject to availability. To book your visit now, speak to me or a member of my team on 07956 180 783 (if dialling from outside the UK, dial +44 7956 180 783) or contact me via the contact form here (will open up in a new window). I look forward to helping you fulfill your hair growth needs.================================================================ NOTE – this offer is not open to those currently on the 3-month hair growth course or who are currently on the personal consultation programme or who have been paid a visit within the last 3 months.

8 March 2011

Brazilian Keratin Treatment (Tuesday, 8 March 2011)

	INTRODUCTION The Brazilian Keratin Treatment (also known as the Brazilian Blowout in the USA) is a hair straightening process that combines keratin (a protein that naturally occurs in a person’s skin, hair or nails) and formaldehyde, the same chemical used in the embalming process. The Brazilian blowout chemical is usually spread on the hair with heat of about 230 degrees Centigrade (around 450 degrees Fahrenheit) used to infuse the chemical into the hair, making it straight and smooth for up to 3 months. For type 4B/4A hair types, even when you wash it with the treatment in, the hair won’t revert back to its usual natural state.
While this would sound wonderful, there are many health warnings about the levels of formaldehyde used in the chemical. ORIGINS The Keratin treatment is known to have started in 2005 for Brazil’s mainly mixed race population with varying degrees of curly hair textures from mainly 3 (curly hair) to 4 (curly with a tighter pattern). When the Keratin treatment started in Brazil, hairdressers mixed their own Keratin formulas with formaldehyde, water, keratin and other ingredients. Word about this chemical that kept the hair straight quickly spread to the USA and Europe. DANGERS Formaldehyde is known to be a carcinogen i.e. a chemical that can cause cancer. Formaldehyde contained in cosmetics up to a level of just around 0.02% is considered safe. However, tests have shown that there are Keratin treatments with levels of up to 10% which is very dangerous to the health. When heat is applied to the hair with the Keratin treatment in, it causes vapours to rise that can cause the eyes of the client and the stylist to sting. These same vapours can cause the lungs of both the stylist and client to burn. In Brazil, salons have tried to reduce these effects by opening the doors and windows to keep the place well ventilated and to not take on too many clients in a day. Some have banned their use in their salons altogether or use the versions with very little formaldehyde that are not as effective i.e. the hair is not straightened properly and the effects don’t last as long. Overuse of the treatment will usually cause brittle hair, bald patches and ulcers on the head. If this wasn’t bad enough, each time the client straightens the hair with strengtheners at home, they are exposed to the same vapours that rose up at the salon when it was first done. REGULATIONS In 2009, the sale and use of the treatment was banned in pharmacies and salons in Brazil because it is considered to be very dangerous to the health. Some salons were investigated by a regulatory body in Brazil in 2009 to stop the use of high doses of the chemical. In the USA, the Keratin Treatment is not approved by the Food and Drug Administration. There is no regulating body that monitors what goes into it. This makes things challenging as some companies claim that their Keratin treatment kits don’t contain formaldehyde but have been shown to have them after being tested.!================================================================ If you’ve got type 4b or 4a hair and were thinking of getting your hair straightened with the Keratin Treatment, then you can let us know by contacting us here (new window).

INTRODUCTION

The Brazilian Keratin Treatment (also known as the Brazilian Blowout in the USA) is a hair straightening process that combines keratin (a protein that naturally occurs in a person’s skin, hair or nails) and formaldehyde, the same chemical used in the embalming process.

The Brazilian blowout chemical is usually spread on the hair with heat of about 230 degrees Centigrade (around 450 degrees Fahrenheit) used to infuse the chemical into the hair, making it straight and smooth for up to 3 months. For type 4B/4A hair types, even when you wash it with the treatment in, the hair won’t revert back to its usual natural state.

While this would sound wonderful, there are many health warnings about the levels of formaldehyde used in the chemical.

ORIGINS

The Keratin treatment is known to have started in 2005 for Brazil’s mainly mixed race population with varying degrees of curly hair textures from mainly 3 (curly hair) to 4 (curly with a tighter pattern).

When the Keratin treatment started in Brazil, hairdressers mixed their own Keratin formulas with formaldehyde, water, keratin and other ingredients. Word about this chemical that kept the hair straight quickly spread to the USA and Europe.

DANGERS

Formaldehyde is known to be a carcinogen i.e. a chemical that can cause cancer. Formaldehyde contained in cosmetics up to a level of just around 0.02% is considered safe. However, tests have shown that there are Keratin treatments with levels of up to 10% which is very dangerous to the health.

When heat is applied to the hair with the Keratin treatment in, it causes vapours to rise that can cause the eyes of the client and the stylist to sting. These same vapours can cause the lungs of both the stylist and client to burn. In Brazil, salons have tried to reduce these effects by opening the doors and windows to keep the place well ventilated and to not take on too many clients in a day. Some have banned their use in their salons altogether or use the versions with very little formaldehyde that are not as effective i.e. the hair is not straightened properly and the effects don’t last as long.

Overuse of the treatment will usually cause brittle hair, bald patches and ulcers on the head.

If this wasn’t bad enough, each time the client straightens the hair with strengtheners at home, they are exposed to the same vapours that rose up at the salon when it was first done.

REGULATIONS

In 2009, the sale and use of the treatment was banned in pharmacies and salons in Brazil because it is considered to be very dangerous to the health. Some salons were investigated by a regulatory body in Brazil in 2009 to stop the use of high doses of the chemical.

In the USA, the Keratin Treatment is not approved by the Food and Drug Administration. There is no regulating body that monitors what goes into it.

This makes things challenging as some companies claim that their Keratin treatment kits don’t contain formaldehyde but have been shown to have them after being tested.!================================================================
If you’ve got type 4b or 4a hair and were thinking of getting your hair straightened with the Keratin Treatment, then you can let us know by contacting us here (new window).

22 February 11

Do Blondes Really Have More Fun? (Tuesday, 22 February 2011)

	Do Black Blondes Have More Fun? Superstar Beyonce was recently pictured with bleached blonde hair and you may have wondered what it would be like to be blonde. Do blondes really have more fun? Do they get more attention? To answer these questions let me tell you a story… I was once walking down the street on my way to work one day and heard a very loud wolf-whistle. Not thinking it was directed at me, I carried on walking and before I knew what was happening, I heard a small crash sound just before I crossed the road. What had happened was that the same driver that had given me the whistle had taken his attention off the road and crashed into the guy’s car in the front as he was checking me out. It wasn’t serious but I was a little surprised by all of this. My natural hair was braided up in the blonde extensions pictured on the left.
There’s a raging debate on at the moment because Beyonce has gone blonder than usual. What is the big deal about this hair colour? And can it really open doors for women to become more successful? Of course not. Look at Oprah…is she blonde? No. Condoleezza Rice? No. Michelle Obama? No. Superstar Monique? No. Kimora Lee Simmons? No. So what’s the big deal about blondes then? I think the blonde thing again is a product of the media. Old school Hollywood started it when the media hyped up actresses such as Jean Harlow, Mae West and Marilyn Monroe. “Blondes have more fun” – they said. Why? To sell movies. I’ve never really agreed with the blonde thing (meaning, I’ve never really agreed that having blonde hair and blue eyes is the ultimate in beauty). I’ve always believed that beauty is in the eye of the beholder and the standards of beauty imposed upon us by the media is out of touch with reality. Everyone was created beautiful as they are. So it is wrong to go blonde when you have dark skin? Of course not! The desire to experiment can’t just be wished away. This desire is a natural thing for black women too. Heck, I’ve been blonde (as you can see!) and yes I got more attention from everyone. But that’s because something bright will always seem to get more initial attention than something dark. I think that blonde hair is just another hair colour like red, blue, black or green. And I think I’d have gotten more attention if I’d worn green and purple extensions! It really is just colour!!! At the end of the day, your hair colour doesn’t determine how successful you will be. YOU DO. Decide now to enjoy your life and have pure freedom when it comes to changing your hair colour or NOT changing your colour. As long as you are going blonde (or any other hair colour) in the healthiest way possible, then enjoy your life and your hair, of course :-)========================================================================= What do you think about the whole ‘blonde debate’? Do you feel that blondes really do have more fun? Tell us what you think by contacting us here. (new window).

Do Black Blondes Have More Fun?

Superstar Beyonce was recently pictured with bleached blonde hair and you may have wondered what it would be like to be blonde. Do blondes really have more fun? Do they get more attention?

To answer these questions let me tell you a story…

I was once walking down the street on my way to work one day and heard a very loud wolf-whistle. Not thinking it was directed at me, I carried on walking and before I knew what was happening, I heard a small crash sound just before I crossed the road.

What had happened was that the same driver that had given me the whistle had taken his attention off the road and crashed into the guy’s car in the front as he was checking me out. It wasn’t serious but I was a little surprised by all of this. My natural hair was braided up in the blonde extensions pictured on the left.

There’s a raging debate on at the moment because Beyonce has gone blonder than usual. What is the big deal about this hair colour?

And can it really open doors for women to become more successful? Of course not. Look at Oprah…is she blonde? No. Condoleezza Rice? No. Michelle Obama? No. Superstar Monique? No. Kimora Lee Simmons? No.

So what’s the big deal about blondes then?

I think the blonde thing again is a product of the media. Old school Hollywood started it when the media hyped up actresses such as Jean Harlow, Mae West and Marilyn Monroe. “Blondes have more fun” – they said. Why? To sell movies.

I’ve never really agreed with the blonde thing (meaning, I’ve never really agreed that having blonde hair and blue eyes is the ultimate in beauty). I’ve always believed that beauty is in the eye of the beholder and the standards of beauty imposed upon us by the media is out of touch with reality. Everyone was created beautiful as they are.

So it is wrong to go blonde when you have dark skin? Of course not! The desire to experiment can’t just be wished away. This desire is a natural thing for black women too.

Heck, I’ve been blonde (as you can see!) and yes I got more attention from everyone. But that’s because something bright will always seem to get more initial attention than something dark.

I think that blonde hair is just another hair colour like red, blue, black or green. And I think I’d have gotten more attention if I’d worn green and purple extensions! It really is just colour!!!

At the end of the day, your hair colour doesn’t determine how successful you will be. YOU DO. Decide now to enjoy your life and have pure freedom when it comes to changing your hair colour or NOT changing your colour. As long as you are going blonde (or any other hair colour) in the healthiest way possible, then enjoy your life and your hair, of course :-)=========================================================================

What do you think about the whole ‘blonde debate’? Do you feel that blondes really do have more fun? Tell us what you think by contacting us here. (new window).

8 February 11

How To Prevent Baldness in Natural Hair (Tuesday, 8 February 2011)

	Braiding With Extensions I feel that this could be worse than the weaves when it comes to causing baldness. When braids are heavy and tight, baldness can occur slowly over time. You have gravity working against you with the added hair as this puts a strain on your hairline therefore baldness can occur. It’s because the baldness doesn’t show up immediately that some natural sisters think it’s ok to braid their hair using extensions with no real breaks in between. Your hair must be allowed to rest in between braids for no less than 4 weeks. During this period, you should be able to cornrow your hair WITHOUT EXTENSIONS in between. If the hair is not long enough, then you can add extensions. Or, if the hair is really short, you can ADD a half draw-string wig (with lots of holes in it for air) that shows off the front of your cornrows but not the ends of your hair.
But in both cases I’ve just mentioned, you must not be uncomfortable. The cornrows must not be tight against your hairline or scalp. If you are uncomfortable as the hairdresser is doing your hair, speak up – say something! Don’t just sit there – tell her it’s too tight! It’s your hairline, your scalp, your head, your money, so speak up AND insist that she loosens it up even if she argues that it won’t last long if it’s looser. Insist anyway!!! They’re not the ones who have to spend the next 4 weeks with the cornrows in…you are. Do you want bad headaches? Scalp irritation? Sores? Long-term baldness? No? Then tell him or her to loosen it up!!! Braiding With Extensions vs Weaves The reason why braids CAN BE a bigger danger than weaves when it comes to baldness is because with the braids (using extensions), hair loss is a slower and more subtle process. A regular weave wearer can be shocked into not using weaves anymore with one bad experience where a patch is created because the weave was taken out inappropriately. But most braid wearers will carry on braiding their hair with extensions until there are too many patches on the hair to mention. WHY DOESN’T ANYONE TELL WOMEN OF THESE DANGERS???? The only way you can ensure that your hairline is still intact when you hit your 60s is to simply braid/cornrow your hair using your own hair. And even then it STILL must not be too tight at the roots because this can put a strain on your scalp. In conclusion, overbraiding the hair with the use of extensions can cause baldness in women of colour that is so subtle that before the baldness is pronounced, it may be too late. You have been warned!=========================================================================Our recently-launched 3-Month Hair Growth Course is getting fuller and fuller everyday! Sign up now and explode your hair growth rate potential! This is for you whether your hair is natural, relaxed, texturised or in a Jheri Curl. Hurry!

Braiding With Extensions

I feel that this could be worse than the weaves when it comes to causing baldness. When braids are heavy and tight, baldness can occur slowly over time. You have gravity working against you with the added hair as this puts a strain on your hairline therefore baldness can occur.

It’s because the baldness doesn’t show up immediately that some natural sisters think it’s ok to braid their hair using extensions with no real breaks in between.

Your hair must be allowed to rest in between braids for no less than 4 weeks. During this period, you should be able to cornrow your hair WITHOUT EXTENSIONS in between.

If the hair is not long enough, then you can add extensions. Or, if the hair is really short, you can ADD a half draw-string wig (with lots of holes in it for air) that shows off the front of your cornrows but not the ends of your hair.

But in both cases I’ve just mentioned, you must not be uncomfortable. The cornrows must not be tight against your hairline or scalp. If you are uncomfortable as the hairdresser is doing your hair, speak up – say something!

Don’t just sit there – tell her it’s too tight! It’s your hairline, your scalp, your head, your money, so speak up AND insist that she loosens it up even if she argues that it won’t last long if it’s looser. Insist anyway!!! They’re not the ones who have to spend the next 4 weeks with the cornrows in…you are. Do you want bad headaches? Scalp irritation? Sores? Long-term baldness? No? Then tell him or her to loosen it up!!!

Braiding With Extensions vs Weaves

The reason why braids CAN BE a bigger danger than weaves when it comes to baldness is because with the braids (using extensions), hair loss is a slower and more subtle process. A regular weave wearer can be shocked into not using weaves anymore with one bad experience where a patch is created because the weave was taken out inappropriately.

But most braid wearers will carry on braiding their hair with extensions until there are too many patches on the hair to mention. WHY DOESN’T ANYONE TELL WOMEN OF THESE DANGERS????

The only way you can ensure that your hairline is still intact when you hit your 60s is to simply braid/cornrow your hair using your own hair.

And even then it STILL must not be too tight at the roots because this can put a strain on your scalp.

In conclusion, overbraiding the hair with the use of extensions can cause baldness in women of colour that is so subtle that before the baldness is pronounced, it may be too late. You have been warned!=========================================================================Our recently-launched 3-Month Hair Growth Course is getting fuller and fuller everyday! Sign up now and explode your hair growth rate potential! This is for you whether your hair is natural, relaxed, texturised or in a Jheri Curl. Hurry!

31 January 11

Say 'Goodbye' to hair odours and 'Hello' beautiful hair! (Monday, 31 January 2011)

	There’s so much conflicting information out there when it comes to black hair growth it’s not even funny! I found out that there are forums out there advocating that women should use a conditioner to WASH the hair. Conditioning your hair to clean your hair will result in hair that’s never clean. If you cream your body everyday without cleaning it first, your body will never be clean. A rinse is not enough for our hair type either because the scalp must be exfoliated properly and old oils and greases must be removed from the hair. Giving your hair a good wash with the right amount of shampoo for your hair type cannot be over-emphasized! Some advocate using ingredients on the hair that you can eat. I’m against this and here’s why.
Before I’d discovered the black hair growth system in my book, I once spread a special mixture of sesame oil and some other ingredients from the kitchen on my head to make it grow faster. I experienced the worst kind of itching in the world. I couldn’t style the hair properly either because of this mixture so I ended up looking like a mad woman – with really itchy hair! Also, I’d been known to make special mixtures with all the oils you could imagine – Jojoba, Olive oil, Any Exotic Sounding Oil, etc. I’ve tried them all and I’ve learnt that they don’t really help black hair very much. These things don’t really dissolve in water and as a result, a greasy film or layer of your mixture is left on the hair. This can lead to severe itching, a bad odour and terrible build up that can make the hair look dull. But you can turn your back on these things with the help of a three month black hair growth course! (will open up in a new window) With a 3-month hair growth course, You will Have hair that smells wonderful all the time! Believe me, your co-workers notice if you are letting them get close enough! Have hair that your spouse will speak well of! He’s going to be singing your praises from now on! Have hair that’s glossy! You will learn to copy a good few tricks you can use for hair that looks great! Stop itching your hair all the time! Learn a few things about your hair type that will keep you from doing this! Have all your nagging questions about your hair type answered! You know, the ones your hairdresser couldn't answer! Boost your confidence and feel wonderful about yourself. Walk taller, make eye contact – smile more! Be in control of your hair! Take charge of your hair growth future and achieve your hair length goals! In addtion, you will see and feel a REAL difference with your hair in a shorter space of time! And you WILL experience black hair growth at a faster rate! Also, you will get your very own personalised hair growth plan that is designed to work with your hair type and aims to solve personal hair problems. If this sounds wonderful to you then get more information about the 3-Month Hair Growth Course here (will open up in a new window) Alternatively, you can book now by calling 07956 180 783. If you live outside the UK, then book by calling +44 7956 180 783. Hurry before it gets too full – it’s only for a limited number of people! ========================================================================= You can STILL book a FREE 5-minute personal consultation (offer ends today) that will help you to identify your hair type and the best products for it. You can call me now on +44 7956 180 783 and quote “FREE 5-Minute Consultation” and I will give you your FREE 5-Minute consultation over the phone. Do it now! Got a comment about this blog? Then contact me now! (new window)

There’s so much conflicting information out there when it comes to black hair growth it’s not even funny!

I found out that there are forums out there advocating that women should use a conditioner to WASH the hair.

Conditioning your hair to clean your hair will result in hair that’s never clean. If you cream your body everyday without cleaning it first, your body will never be clean.

A rinse is not enough for our hair type either because the scalp must be exfoliated properly and old oils and greases must be removed from the hair. Giving your hair a good wash with the right amount of shampoo for your hair type cannot be over-emphasized!

Some advocate using ingredients on the hair that you can eat. I’m against this and here’s why.

Before I’d discovered the black hair growth system in my book, I once spread a special mixture of sesame oil and some other ingredients from the kitchen on my head to make it grow faster.

I experienced the worst kind of itching in the world. I couldn’t style the hair properly either because of this mixture so I ended up looking like a mad woman – with really itchy hair!

Also, I’d been known to make special mixtures with all the oils you could imagine – Jojoba, Olive oil, Any Exotic Sounding Oil, etc. I’ve tried them all and I’ve learnt that they don’t really help black hair very much.

These things don’t really dissolve in water and as a result, a greasy film or layer of your mixture is left on the hair. This can lead to severe itching, a bad odour and terrible build up that can make the hair look dull.

But you can turn your back on these things with the help of a three month black hair growth course! (will open up in a new window)

With a 3-month hair growth course,

You will

Have hair that smells wonderful all the time! Believe me, your co-workers notice if you are letting them get close enough!
Have hair that your spouse will speak well of! He’s going to be singing your praises from now on!
Have hair that’s glossy! You will learn to copy a good few tricks you can use for hair that looks great!
Stop itching your hair all the time! Learn a few things about your hair type that will keep you from doing this!
Have all your nagging questions about your hair type answered! You know, the ones your hairdresser couldn't answer!
Boost your confidence and feel wonderful about yourself. Walk taller, make eye contact – smile more!
Be in control of your hair! Take charge of your hair growth future and achieve your hair length goals!

In addtion, you will see and feel a REAL difference with your hair in a shorter space of time! And you WILL experience black hair growth at a faster rate!

Also, you will get your very own personalised hair growth plan that is designed to work with your hair type and aims to solve personal hair problems.

If this sounds wonderful to you then get more information about the 3-Month Hair Growth Course here (will open up in a new window)

Alternatively, you can book now by calling 07956 180 783. If you live outside the UK, then book by calling +44 7956 180 783.

Hurry before it gets too full – it’s only for a limited number of people!

=========================================================================

You can STILL book a FREE 5-minute personal consultation (offer ends today) that will help you to identify your hair type and the best products for it. You can call me now on +44 7956 180 783 and quote “FREE 5-Minute Consultation” and I will give you your FREE 5-Minute consultation over the phone. Do it now!

Got a comment about this blog? Then contact me now! (new window)

18 January 11

Why You Don't Need A Weave! (Tuesday, 18 January 2011)

	I’ve always been on the side of NOT wearing a weave. But even I have thought about wearing one (I can hear you say “What?!! You – Elizabeth??? No way!”) Yes – I have been in a position where I have nearly succumbed to the seductive beckoning of a gorgeous long and big weave. This was thanks to the media! Which black hair magazine doesn’t usually have a beautiful gorgeous black woman on the front – with long hair or big hair? And the music videos? More big hair. More long hair. And have you noticed how these women are usually smiling? It’s as if they are saying “Happiness is equal to a Long Big Weave Like Mine”!!! So what stopped me? What happened? In a word, God’s Mercy – which came in the form of my hairdresser at the time…who DID NOT adhere to my hair growth programme. I’ll never forget that day…I was on the SweetSable system but felt that my hair wasn’t growing quickly enough. (If you’re feeling this way too, please keep on reading the book (new window) and doing what’s in the book for hair growth success. The system is NOT a magic formula but if you follow it 100%, you will see positive results....give it time to work). Why wasn’t it down to my back yet? I thought.
I know, I continued, I’ll put a weave in and as I have the weave in, my own hair will be growing out nicely underneath (there’s a reason why I don’t teach this anymore, you can contact me (this will open up in a new window) to ask me personally). So I picked up the phone and dialled my hairdresser. I’d like to make an appointment to put a weave in – I said. There was a short pause at the other end. I wonder if she heard me, I thought. And this was her reply: “You don’t need to put a weave in and mess up your beautiful hair. You don’t need it.”…And that was that. That was about 4 years ago. But do you know what the amazing thing is? Today, people think I wear a weave! My own sister thought I was wearing a weave last year when she saw me at a social event! It was laughable! I’ve never worn one, neither do I need one. Oh that you could taste the joys of having your own hair growing out of your own scalp! Oh that you could taste the feeling of freedom you get when you have your hairline intact! It’s time to lay down the law! It’s time to decide now that you will never wear one…ever again. Believe me when I say that you don’t need that added pressure on your follicles. And the hair-patting to itch the hair, the lack of air to the hair shaft, follicles and scalp? The receding hair line? You don’t need these! I don’t care how long you’ve had it in for. Make a decision today to stop wearing weaves. And then make a decision to gain understanding about your hair. You will do this by surrounding yourself with resources such as my Black Hair Growth Secrets – Revealed! book, this blog, my personal consultations and events. So remember, say ‘No’ to weaves and say ‘Yes’ to Black Hair Growth! ========================================================================= You can book a FREE 5-minute personal consultation (offer ends 31 Jan 11) that will help you to identify your hair type and the best products for it. You can call me now on +44 7956 180 783 and quote “FREE 5-Minute Consultation” and I will give you your FREE 5-Minute consultation over the phone. Do it now! Got a comment about this blog? Then contact me now! (new window)

I’ve always been on the side of NOT wearing a weave. But even I have thought about wearing one (I can hear you say “What?!! You – Elizabeth??? No way!”)

Yes – I have been in a position where I have nearly succumbed to the seductive beckoning of a gorgeous long and big weave. This was thanks to the media!

Which black hair magazine doesn’t usually have a beautiful gorgeous black woman on the front – with long hair or big hair? And the music videos? More big hair. More long hair. And have you noticed how these women are usually smiling? It’s as if they are saying “Happiness is equal to a Long Big Weave Like Mine”!!!

So what stopped me? What happened? In a word, God’s Mercy – which came in the form of my hairdresser at the time…who DID NOT adhere to my hair growth programme.

I’ll never forget that day…I was on the SweetSable system but felt that my hair wasn’t growing quickly enough. (If you’re feeling this way too, please keep on reading the book (new window) and doing what’s in the book for hair growth success. The system is NOT a magic formula but if you follow it 100%, you will see positive results....give it time to work).

Why wasn’t it down to my back yet? I thought.

I know, I continued, I’ll put a weave in and as I have the weave in, my own hair will be growing out nicely underneath (there’s a reason why I don’t teach this anymore, you can contact me (this will open up in a new window) to ask me personally).

So I picked up the phone and dialled my hairdresser. I’d like to make an appointment to put a weave in – I said. There was a short pause at the other end. I wonder if she heard me, I thought. And this was her reply: “You don’t need to put a weave in and mess up your beautiful hair. You don’t need it.”…And that was that. That was about 4 years ago.

But do you know what the amazing thing is? Today, people think I wear a weave! My own sister thought I was wearing a weave last year when she saw me at a social event! It was laughable! I’ve never worn one, neither do I need one.

Oh that you could taste the joys of having your own hair growing out of your own scalp!

Oh that you could taste the feeling of freedom you get when you have your hairline intact!

It’s time to lay down the law! It’s time to decide now that you will never wear one…ever again. Believe me when I say that you don’t need that added pressure on your follicles. And the hair-patting to itch the hair, the lack of air to the hair shaft, follicles and scalp? The receding hair line? You don’t need these!

I don’t care how long you’ve had it in for. Make a decision today to stop wearing weaves.

And then make a decision to gain understanding about your hair. You will do this by surrounding yourself with resources such as my Black Hair Growth Secrets – Revealed! book, this blog, my personal consultations and events.

So remember, say ‘No’ to weaves and say ‘Yes’ to Black Hair Growth!

=========================================================================

You can book a FREE 5-minute personal consultation (offer ends 31 Jan 11) that will help you to identify your hair type and the best products for it. You can call me now on +44 7956 180 783 and quote “FREE 5-Minute Consultation” and I will give you your FREE 5-Minute consultation over the phone. Do it now!

Got a comment about this blog? Then contact me now! (new window)

12 January 11

How To Avoid An Overtrim! (Wednesday, 12 January 2011)

	Have you ever had that sinking feeling that your hairdresser took off more than you hoped that they would when they trimmed your hair? You know deep down your hair ought to be longer – heck it WAS supposed to be longer than this…so what happened? Chances are they probably DID get a bit too carried away with what really should have been a skim. Chances are they took an extra inch too many off! This is particularly upsetting if you have goals in mind that you wish to meet. But fret not. Because by following these simple tips, you’ll be able to take off the amount you want taken – and not an inch more!
Tip #1: Go to a Sweet Sable approved hairdresser for trims. He/she will respect your wishes to take off the amount you want – or not at all. He/she will not be trim happy – very important! Tip #2: Go in there with a plan. You must have an idea of exactly how much you want taken off even if it’s with a SweetSable approved hairdresser. Do you want an eighth of an inch or less? Know this in advance and let your SweetSable approved hairdresser know this. Tip #3: Understand that No Means No!!! If you have hair length goals in mind and want to fulfil them, then you will probably want hardly anything taken off. In fact, if your hair is severely damaged, you STILL HAVE THE RIGHT to have NOTHING taken off. This is your right and must be respected. Period. ‘No’ means ‘no’. Whether you have known the hairdresser from before or not. Funnily enough, this leads me to this important tip… Tip #4: Go to a hairdresser you are NOT familiar with. Yep. This is because, the closer they are to you, the more likely they are to persuade you to take off an amount you did not plan on. And if you are not familiar with him/her, the bolder you will be. Tip #5: Once you have decided to let the hairdresser trim your hair, let them show you in the mirror EXACTLY HOW MUCH IS BEING TAKEN OFF. DO NOT ASSUME THAT THEY ARE DOING AS YOU HAVE WISHED. CHECK IT FOR YOUR OWN GOOD. DO this even with a SweetSable approved hairdresser!!! Tip #5: Be BOLD!!! Don’t be afraid to speak up! If you feel that too much is being taken off, then SAY SOMETHING! IT’S YOUR HAIR LENGTH GOAL – not theirs! Tip #6: Go with a friend! Discuss in advance with your friend how much you want taken off. Because as you sit there in the chair enjoying your banter with the hairdresser, your resolve only to take a little bit off might weaken. Tell them to jump to you when they see the scissors and keep their eyes on the scissors. They must CHECK to see what is about to be taken off. If it is more than you have discussed in advance, they MUST STOP THE PROCESS IMMEDIATELY!!! Tip #7: Only skim your hair once or twice a year with hardly anything taken off. This is sufficient for your hair. Most hairdressers may disagree but it’s your hair length goals – not theirs. And if they don’t like it, leave! Tip #8: WALK OUT OF THERE HAPPY!!! You have every right to have your hair the way YOU want it. You WILL BE HAPPY WHEN YOU MEET YOUR HAIR LENGTH GOALS. In conclusion, nothing in the world will sabotage your hair growth efforts like an overtrim. But with these 8 powerful tips, you can DO SOMETHING. You can FIGHT BACK. You can decide that your hair length goals will be met quickly. ========================================================================= You can book a FREE 5-minute personal consultation (offer ends 31 Jan 11) that will help you to identify your hair type and the best products for it. You can call me now on +44 7956 180 783 and quote “FREE 5-Minute Consultation” and I will give you your FREE 5-Minute consultation over the phone. Do it now!

Have you ever had that sinking feeling that your hairdresser took off more than you hoped that they would when they trimmed your hair? You know deep down your hair ought to be longer – heck it WAS supposed to be longer than this…so what happened?

Chances are they probably DID get a bit too carried away with what really should have been a skim. Chances are they took an extra inch too many off! This is particularly upsetting if you have goals in mind that you wish to meet.

But fret not. Because by following these simple tips, you’ll be able to take off the amount you want taken – and not an inch more!

Tip #1: Go to a Sweet Sable approved hairdresser for trims. He/she will respect your wishes to take off the amount you want – or not at all. He/she will not be trim happy – very important!

Tip #2: Go in there with a plan. You must have an idea of exactly how much you want taken off even if it’s with a SweetSable approved hairdresser. Do you want an eighth of an inch or less? Know this in advance and let your SweetSable approved hairdresser know this.

Tip #3: Understand that No Means No!!! If you have hair length goals in mind and want to fulfil them, then you will probably want hardly anything taken off. In fact, if your hair is severely damaged, you STILL HAVE THE RIGHT to have NOTHING taken off. This is your right and must be respected. Period. ‘No’ means ‘no’. Whether you have known the hairdresser from before or not. Funnily enough, this leads me to this important tip…

Tip #4: Go to a hairdresser you are NOT familiar with. Yep. This is because, the closer they are to you, the more likely they are to persuade you to take off an amount you did not plan on. And if you are not familiar with him/her, the bolder you will be.

Tip #5: Once you have decided to let the hairdresser trim your hair, let them show you in the mirror EXACTLY HOW MUCH IS BEING TAKEN OFF. DO NOT ASSUME THAT THEY ARE DOING AS YOU HAVE WISHED. CHECK IT FOR YOUR OWN GOOD. DO this even with a SweetSable approved hairdresser!!!

Tip #5: Be BOLD!!! Don’t be afraid to speak up! If you feel that too much is being taken off, then SAY SOMETHING! IT’S YOUR HAIR LENGTH GOAL – not theirs!

Tip #6: Go with a friend! Discuss in advance with your friend how much you want taken off. Because as you sit there in the chair enjoying your banter with the hairdresser, your resolve only to take a little bit off might weaken. Tell them to jump to you when they see the scissors and keep their eyes on the scissors. They must CHECK to see what is about to be taken off. If it is more than you have discussed in advance, they MUST STOP THE PROCESS IMMEDIATELY!!!

Tip #7: Only skim your hair once or twice a year with hardly anything taken off. This is sufficient for your hair. Most hairdressers may disagree but it’s your hair length goals – not theirs. And if they don’t like it, leave!

Tip #8: WALK OUT OF THERE HAPPY!!! You have every right to have your hair the way YOU want it. You WILL BE HAPPY WHEN YOU MEET YOUR HAIR LENGTH GOALS.

In conclusion, nothing in the world will sabotage your hair growth efforts like an overtrim. But with these 8 powerful tips, you can DO SOMETHING. You can FIGHT BACK. You can decide that your hair length goals will be met quickly.

=========================================================================

4 January 11

Why Too Many Hair Products Spoil Black Hair! (Tuesday, 4 January 2011)

	When there’s a problem, there’s a tendency for people to throw resources at the problem in the hope that it will go away as a result of these additional resources. You’ve probably bought lots of products for your hair in the hope that one of these will help you to improve your hair growth experience. When this doesn’t seem to yield any results, then chances are, you’ll want to buy even more products in the hope that something else will. Let me tell you why this doesn’t usually work out for anyone. I know a girl who suffered from acne – a skin condition. She did everything she could to get rid of the issue.
When it finally went away, her skin was perfect but she was worried about the blemishes the conditions had left behind. She then proceeded to go after any product that promised perfect skin. She ended up becoming a product junkie and before she knew what was happening, the acne returned. The moral of this story is that too many cooks spoil the broth…too many products being used on your hair spoil the hair. I know it’s not your fault. Manufacturers bombard black women with so many products it’s unbelievable. For every European hair shop there’s got to be at least 3 or 4 black hair ones in the area or just outside the area. In addition, when you’re in the black hair shop trying to find one good product, you are again bombarded with the array of products on display. And when you ask questions about what’s best for your hair, your hair type and texture are not taken into account and you are simply referred to a product that everyone’s buying! My advice to you is this: Don’t turn into a product junkie! Find out what your hair type is and what’s good for your particular hair type and texture today. ========================================================================= You can book a FREE 5-minute personal consultation that will help you to identify your hair type and the best products for it. You can call me now on +44 7956 180 783 and quote “FREE 5-Minute Consultation” and I will give you your FREE 5-Minute consultation over the phone. Do it now!

When there’s a problem, there’s a tendency for people to throw resources at the problem in the hope that it will go away as a result of these additional resources.

You’ve probably bought lots of products for your hair in the hope that one of these will help you to improve your hair growth experience. When this doesn’t seem to yield any results, then chances are, you’ll want to buy even more products in the hope that something else will. Let me tell you why this doesn’t usually work out for anyone.

I know a girl who suffered from acne – a skin condition. She did everything she could to get rid of the issue.

When it finally went away, her skin was perfect but she was worried about the blemishes the conditions had left behind.

She then proceeded to go after any product that promised perfect skin.

She ended up becoming a product junkie and before she knew what was happening, the acne returned.

The moral of this story is that too many cooks spoil the broth…too many products being used on your hair spoil the hair. I know it’s not your fault. Manufacturers bombard black women with so many products it’s unbelievable. For every European hair shop there’s got to be at least 3 or 4 black hair ones in the area or just outside the area.

In addition, when you’re in the black hair shop trying to find one good product, you are again bombarded with the array of products on display. And when you ask questions about what’s best for your hair, your hair type and texture are not taken into account and you are simply referred to a product that everyone’s buying!

My advice to you is this: Don’t turn into a product junkie! Find out what your hair type is and what’s good for your particular hair type and texture today.

=========================================================================

You can book a FREE 5-minute personal consultation that will help you to identify your hair type and the best products for it. You can call me now on +44 7956 180 783 and quote “FREE 5-Minute Consultation” and I will give you your FREE 5-Minute consultation over the phone. Do it now!

6 December 10

To Weave or Not To Weave? Event (Saturday, 4 December 2010 Event)

	Today was an interesting day…we quickly delved into why women of colour wear weaves, wigs and extensions. The discussion went around to what black women can do to minimise the use of these ‘hair enhancers’. We discussed the enormous pressure black women are under to conform to a certain image. It feels like we are under pressure to look like our favourite cover girls/women of colour and as such we resort to the use of weaves and wigs to look a certain way. The comments shared within the group was the compliments or the lack thereof women of colour get when they change their hairstyle.
For example, a member commented on the fact that when she went from wearing her hair in a natural style (braids) to wearing a weave, the compliments poured in from her colleagues. Another lady in the group said that men simply didn’t find natural hair attractive. In response to this, a lady in the group with natural hair shared with the group how she found that she got the opposite effect to what she expected when she popped into a sauna/steam room of her local gym one day. She said that the black women that saw her natural hair in its wet, shrunken state seemed to mind it being in this state whilst the men that saw it – both black and white didn’t seem to bat an eyelid about it but rather gave her compliments about it! I did wonder if this was because men have grown so unhappy with the weave phenomenon that when they see a woman of colour with her hair in its natural state (even when it’s shrunken down), they are happy with it because it’s all hers? My concern as a black hair growth expert/researcher/detective is the damage inflicted on our hair when we abuse the use of these tools. My view is that we as black women really do need to fall in love with our own hair AND work with what we’ve got whether we decide to stay natural or have it chemically treated (i.e. relaxed, texturised, Jheri-curl, etc). We really must take another look at what we’ve got and appreciate it because it’s what we’ve been given to work with. ========================================================================= This topic of weaves, wigs and extensions is such a hot topic and I’d like to get your feedback and comments. Get in touch with me now via the contact page (will open up in a new window).

Today was an interesting day…we quickly delved into why women of colour wear weaves, wigs and extensions. The discussion went around to what black women can do to minimise the use of these ‘hair enhancers’.

We discussed the enormous pressure black women are under to conform to a certain image. It feels like we are under pressure to look like our favourite cover girls/women of colour and as such we resort to the use of weaves and wigs to look a certain way.

The comments shared within the group was the compliments or the lack thereof women of colour get when they change their hairstyle.

For example, a member commented on the fact that when she went from wearing her hair in a natural style (braids) to wearing a weave, the compliments poured in from her colleagues.

Another lady in the group said that men simply didn’t find natural hair attractive. In response to this, a lady in the group with natural hair shared with the group how she found that she got the opposite effect to what she expected when she popped into a sauna/steam room of her local gym one day. She said that the black women that saw her natural hair in its wet, shrunken state seemed to mind it being in this state whilst the men that saw it – both black and white didn’t seem to bat an eyelid about it but rather gave her compliments about it!

I did wonder if this was because men have grown so unhappy with the weave phenomenon that when they see a woman of colour with her hair in its natural state (even when it’s shrunken down), they are happy with it because it’s all hers?

My concern as a black hair growth expert/researcher/detective is the damage inflicted on our hair when we abuse the use of these tools. My view is that we as black women really do need to fall in love with our own hair AND work with what we’ve got whether we decide to stay natural or have it chemically treated (i.e. relaxed, texturised, Jheri-curl, etc). We really must take another look at what we’ve got and appreciate it because it’s what we’ve been given to work with.
=========================================================================

This topic of weaves, wigs and extensions is such a hot topic and I’d like to get your feedback and comments. Get in touch with me now via the contact page (will open up in a new window).

28 November 10

Meeting DJ Nanny of VOAR and 3 Miss West Africa UK contestants (My Interview with DJ Nanny on 24 Nov 2010 Event)

	I met up with DJ Nanny B at the VOAR (Voice of Africa Radio) premises in Plaistow (London, UK) (She is the 3rd person in the first row from the left). I was featured on her Roots and Culture show which aired from 5.00pm to 7.00pm GMT. I was there with Gloria who talked about the state her hair was in before she met me and did a consultation with me. She's still on the personalised system I outlined for her till this day! We had a great time talking about my upcoming events (the next ones being on Saturday, 27 November 2010 and 4 December 2010) DJ Nanny is an amazing DJ and even let me announce the next VOAR event being a Fundraising Dinner and Dance taking place on Saturday, 18 December 2010 at the AFM International Hall (will open up in a new window)
Also while I was there, I had fun with 3 amazing beautiful women (In second row from the left, Shola Renner, Astride Costa and Ivelena Costa) - contestants for the next Miss West Africa UK 2010 event taking place on Friday, 27 November 2010 in Manor Park I also met DJ Space (VOAR's founder) and Rachael who's doing her PHD on community radios (First person in first row from the left - I'm in between her and DJ Nanny). My hair on the day I must admit, it looks good in this picture! The waves were achieved by curling my hair in the morning with my fingers and bobby pins, letting it set under the dryer for about 35 minutes and then taking out the pins after I'd done my make-up. This way if it needed that bit of extra time to dry it would do so as I was applying my make-up - which takes about 10 minutes! In case you're wondering, I have very typical coarse, kinky hair but it is relaxed. To leave a comment about this blog, please do so here on the contact page ========================================================================= The next event is titled To Weave or Not To Weave! (FREE EVENT) and is taking place at the YASHUA ARTS & CULTURE, Gallery Fore, 105-107 Fore Street, Edmonton, N18 2XF on Saturday, 4 December 2010 from 3:30pm to 5:00pm GMT For more information on our events, click here

I met up with DJ Nanny B at the VOAR (Voice of Africa Radio) premises in Plaistow (London, UK) (She is the 3rd person in the first row from the left). I was featured on her Roots and Culture show which aired from 5.00pm to 7.00pm GMT. I was there with Gloria who talked about the state her hair was in before she met me and did a consultation with me. She's still on the personalised system I outlined for her till this day!

We had a great time talking about my upcoming events (the next ones being on Saturday, 27 November 2010 and 4 December 2010)

DJ Nanny is an amazing DJ and even let me announce the next VOAR event being a Fundraising Dinner and Dance taking place on Saturday, 18 December 2010 at the AFM International Hall (will open up in a new window)

Also while I was there, I had fun with 3 amazing beautiful women (In second row from the left, Shola Renner, Astride Costa and Ivelena Costa) - contestants for the next Miss West Africa UK 2010 event taking place on Friday, 27 November 2010 in Manor Park I also met DJ Space (VOAR's founder) and Rachael who's doing her PHD on community radios (First person in first row from the left - I'm in between her and DJ Nanny).

My hair on the day

I must admit, it looks good in this picture! The waves were achieved by curling my hair in the morning with my fingers and bobby pins, letting it set under the dryer for about 35 minutes and then taking out the pins after I'd done my make-up. This way if it needed that bit of extra time to dry it would do so as I was applying my make-up - which takes about 10 minutes! In case you're wondering, I have very typical coarse, kinky hair but it is relaxed.

To leave a comment about this blog, please do so here on the contact page
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The next event is titled To Weave or Not To Weave! (FREE EVENT) and is taking place at the YASHUA ARTS & CULTURE, Gallery Fore, 105-107 Fore Street, Edmonton, N18 2XF on Saturday, 4 December 2010 from 3:30pm to 5:00pm GMT For more information on our events, click here

25 November 10

Calling all Women of Colour with Natural Hair (Natural Sistas 20 Nov 2010 Event)

I was very excited to see everyone present to hear my talk about natural hair! About 100% of the women that came DID have natural black hair! What a blast! There were questions and answers…there were even hairdressers present! I took a picture with one (see left)!!!

I know that when it comes to natural hair, a lot of women of colour struggle with style choices that will suit their lifestyles, especially if they work in an office. So what IS a black girl/woman to do if her hair is natural and she works in an office and does not wish to wear her hair in braids or locs or twists???

Well, apart from the usual braids and locs, there is the option of curls.

Yep – curls. This can work very well on very coarse natural black hair and with the help of good preparation and excellent styling products, you will be amazed at what can be achieved!

The steps for achieving curls on natural hair can be seen below.

Twists leading to curls on natural hair

The preparation required for this style is pre-conditioning, washing with a colour shampoo, deep conditioning, moisturising the hair (not the scalp!) with the Paul Mitchell moisturiser whilst the hair is a little damp, twisting 4-6 sections and drying under a hood dryer. The hair should be 90% dry. If it is a 100% dry, then spray with a little water.

See the Before Video here on YouTube (this will open up in a new window)

NOTE - Instead of the heavy greases and oils used in this video, swap for the Paul Mitchell Styling Glaze or Boots Essential Curl Cream or Boots Styling Gel (this will open up in a new window) to define your curls and add definition without weight (experiment with these 3 separately to see which one gives you the best results). The oils and greases and shea butter used in the video actually encourage frizz.

See the After Video here on YouTube (this will open up in a new window)

In the morning, when you take out your twists, you can moisturise with a little Paul Mitchell moisturiser topped up with Doo Gro Hair Polish Shine Mist for shine on the hair Please avoid the use of greases and oils and Oil Sheen Sprays as these do nothing for your hair.

To leave a comment about this blog, please do so here on the contact page
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The next event is titled Something 4 the Kids! (FREE EVENT) and is taking place at the YASHUA ARTS & CULTURE, Gallery Fore, 105-107 Fore Street, Edmonton, N18 2XF on Saturday, 27 November 2010 from 3:30pm to 5:00pm GMT For more information on our events, click here

24th - 25th of May Afro Hair and Beauty Blog

A Treat for Women of Colour with Natural Hair (Afro Hair and Beauty May 2009 Blog)

Before	During	After

At Afro Hair and Beauty, people often mistook Gloria for me!

Dressed in a white cotton shirt and a brown skirt on Monday I look at my watch for what seemed like the tenth time…the stylist I’d booked was late...
by about an hour. And I was due to go on stage in less than an hour.

As I dialled the stylist’s number, I can feel my back getting soaked with perspiration as all sorts of questions raced through my mind…I waited for the phone to ring at the other end and for her to pick up. That didn’t happen – her mobile phone was switched off.

I slowly look around and catch sight of a stylist friend of mine I knew from Splinters. He’s walking through the crowd and I quite literally grab him by the arm and say:

“You’ve got to come on stage with me – I go on soon and my stylist isn’t here!”

The only reason I could do that is because I knew he was a good stylist. He understood about hair.

Pausing for a moment, he explains to me why he can’t do it…he didn’t have his tools with him and had only come to support his friends at the other stand across from where my stand was at Afro Hair. He had not planned to go on stage to do a live demo.

He then says excitedly, “Hold on a minute! A friend of mine will be able to do it…let me have a word with him”. And he rushes off, disappearing into the crowd.

He returns about 5 minutes later and takes me to meet Michael. But I wasn’t going to have just anyone on stage with me…the person had to be good – and I mean really brilliant! I needed a stylist that was not averse to styling natural hair and one that could create some beautiful styles with natural hair.

Turns out Michael can style natural hair beautifully…in fact, it turns out that Michael is an award winning hair stylist!

Then another bombshell hit me…”Your talk has been cut short from 45 minutes to 30!”, the organisers said to me. I told Michael that I expected us to get on with the model’s hair and be done in half-an-hour. He told me that this would be impossible in that time.

“In that case, we’ll do what we can in that time frame…”, and out we went to meet the waiting crowd.

As I talked about the natural hair tips I knew inside out, Michael worked away with Gloria’s hair. I interacted with the audience and Michael and Gloria. I was asked questions and the time was up in no time…we had to get off the stage with Gloria’s hair half done…but this was all exciting and good.

Gloria’s hair did get finished in the end to the extent that I didn’t recognise her!

It just goes to show that when things seem a little intense, or seem to have gone wrong, the important thing is to stay calm because everything is going to be alright!

Want know how our model Gloria got her hair to the length it is today? Click here to find out…

Were you at Afro Hair & Beauty? If so let us know!

Were you at Afro Hair and Beauty this year? Have you got a comment about this blog? If so click here to let us know...

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