Author: Renniestar

I'm a writer, singer, entrepreneur, song writer; passionate about African natural hair~~ have been natural for about 1yr & still moving forward** Also head over heels about skincare...let's learn, inspire and discover more together @renniestar

DIY banana and rice water hair mask

by Renniestar, posted in African hair, banana hair mask, hair loss, knots, split ends

African decent hair requires alot of work and care. Our hair has a curly, coily kinky hair texture that is very attractive but requires attention, and products for it’s manageability. Often more people find it easier to relax and overuse heat for manageability but that is a totally wrong approach towards our strands.

And we do not need to dig deeper into our pockets because with the revolution of natural hair care, we now have DIYS ( do it yourself) that is way cheaper and healthier considering the market is flooded with chemical infused products that may overtime damage our strands!

Highlights

Bananas are high in vitamin B6, vitamin C, potassium and dietary fibre. Bananas are great for your hair and scalp. Prevents and controls dandruffs and moisturise our scalp leaving it fresh and shiny.

Benefits of using bananas as a hair mask

  • Improves manageability and shine of our hair.
  • Prevents and controls dandruffs.
  • It moisturises our scalp.
  • Its rich in potassium and natural oils, carbohydrates and vitamins.
  • Helps soften our hair and protect their natural elasticity.

The more reason why I prefer banana mask for my hair is because it’s way cheaper/ affordable, it makes my hair so soft and elastic, it gets rid of dry hair and revamps my curls real quick.

Rice water the ingredient I use with the bananas to achieve a glossy texture that is applicable on my hair. As you know rice water is known to grow hair in the ancient China, it’s all over the youtube and internet for it’s benefits. >>>Read more here on rice water for hair growth

DIY hair mask

Mash 3 whole ripe bananas in a bowl using afork. Then mix with a pre-made rice water that had stayed for atleast 24hrs, then sieve the mixture to get all the Chunks out before you apply it on your hair. You will get a glossy texture that is creamier and easier to apply to your stands.

Begin from the scalp to the ends of your hair using your fingures to spread through out your hair,for curly hair texture work in sections for more penetration of the mask, then cover with a shower cap for about 30 minutes or even an hour if you have time. Then wash it off with warm water as usual followed by cold water for a rinse.

Hope this was of help to you! Let me know on the comments section. Like and share with your friends and family. As usual it’s your natural girl over here signing out! See you on the next blog! 💓💓

What causes single strand knots?

by Renniestar, posted in African hair, anti-frizz custard, knots, split ends

Hello, welcome back to my blog I was away for some time attending to other life issues. But I’m back behind the keyboard ✌️missed you all…hope you grew your hair like me💓. Anyway let’s dig in to our topic for today.

Have you experienced these knots? Well, I have and they can be annoying especially if you are trying to grow your hair out! Before we think of getting rid of those knots, let’s first know what causes them👇.

What are single strand knots or rather called fairy knots? They are tiny beads that forms along the hair shaft, it happens when the outer layer of hair/ cuticle becomes damaged and opens up.

They snag to each other resulting in tangles & knots, can also appear on a single strand of your hair. Curly, coily and kinky hair is the most common/ prone to strand knots.

Causes of single strand knots!

Curly, coily hair is produced by a flat curved hair follicle. They tend to weave and loop around each other causing tangles and later breakage.

  • Not moisturing your ends
  • Not straightening your hair after shampooing.
  • Manipulation of hair during the shampoo process/ styling and friction.
  • Not using shears meant for hair only.
  • Not trimming your ends frequently.
  • Also not trimming your hair well or rather visiting a hair cut professional.

How to prevent single strand knots from forming!

  • Detangle hair before shampooing.
  • Use the ‘ praying hands’ method- apply shampoo directly to the scalp and massage it with your fingure tips. (Praying hands’) method is where you press your hands together with your hair in between them.
  • Take care of your hair before bed- you could braid out or twist your hair to keep your hair from shrinking on itself at night. Use satin pillow case/ scarf.
  • Use a conditioner – add a strengthening deep conditioner to your routine e.g Maui moisture heal & hydrate + Shea butter hair mask.
  • Keep your hair lubricated especially on the ends where hair tend to be high on porosity.
  • Visit a hair cut professional after 3 – 6 months for curly, coily hair.

Maui moisture heal & hydrate+ shea butter hair mask

Knots should be cut with with proper hair cutting shears, do not try to comb them out or tear the hair apart.

This can also help>> dust your ends every time you notice a knot on your hair to prevent it from tangling and looping around other strands!

What do you do when you get knots? Let me know on the comments section. Also like and share with your friends and family. Till next blog chao ✍️

>>>>read more on single strand knots here

Get your custard here for tangled hair

How to conceal and get rid of split ends!

by Renniestar, posted in split ends

Are you prone to getting splits? Do you feel like you develop splits more than you grow out your hair? These may be the questions running through your mind every time you see your hair. So, in this article for today we are going to look at what majorly causes splits and ways of reducing and protecting your ends.

We start with what are split ends? Split ends refers to the splitting or fraying of the dry and brittle hair shaft. Exposure to extreme weather , hair care techniques such as blow drying, straightening and curling may cause split ends.

Also chemical hair products that contains damaging ingredients causes splitting.

How to get rid of the split ends

  • Hair that is damaged and has a lot of splits cannot be repaired by any product in the market unfortunately, the only option is to cut them off!
  • The latest trend to get rid of splits is called velaterapia also referred as (candle cutting). Candle cutting involves twisting a section of the hair and burning it halfway through a lightened candle….this creates a seal to the ends.

Still some hair care experts worry it may actually cause split ends and damage hair follicles. **Please do not do this by yourself it may cause burning if not done right, go ahead and seek help of an experienced professional!

  • Hair masks may not get rid of the split ends although, they moisturize hair and may help prevent them. But they won’t make them go away.

How to conceal split ends!

  1. Hair masks – help to moisturize and nourish your hair, they are especially beneficial for dry, frizzy hair. They contain restorative ingredients can conseal the ends of your hair.
  2. Sweet almond oil – can make your hair stronger overtime and make it less prone to split ends which means, your growth won’t be slowed by losing hair that becomes damaged.
  3. Argan oil – is particularly amazing if you have damaged hair. The vitamin E in the oil helps smooth frayed hair shafts and seal split ends while the omega fatty acids work to strengthen your hair.
  4. Rose hip oil – is a protective hair care oil that relieves dry scalp. It has the ability to eliminate split ends and de-frizz hair and restores hair natural shine & luster.

Tips and tricks

  • Don’t wash your hair on a daily basis limit to washing your hair weekly.
  • Get regular hair cuts to prevent splits.
  • Choose all natural shampoo with natural or organic ingredients.
  • Use a conditioner after shampoo in the bathroom like a leave – in conditioner.
  • Use a wide tooth comb to detangle wet hair.
  • Use a heat protective spray every time you want to use heat
  • Take supplements that strengthen your hair that is biotin and folic acid.

Liquid biotin supplimentation

Get folic acid

Some hair styles cause split ends such as tight ponytails & hair twists. You can limit how often you wear these hair styles and opt for low manipulative hair styles.

Are some people prone to splits?

African hair texture is especially prone to damage due to the location of it’s oval-shapped hair shafts. The natural retro curvature of hair follicles slower hair growth and cause less hair density.

African hair texture requires a lot of care and patience while detangling and also the right products for your curls.👌 show some love by being gentle..

Women going through menopause- when women are under going menopause estrogen levels drop, the natural oils produced in the scalp decreases and overtime they start noticing hair fall and more splits appearing.

Down here are the list of the products listed above👇

Shop keratin hair

Shop sweet almond oil

Shop organic Moroccan argan oil

Get rosehip oil here

What are your hair struggles? Tell me on the comments down below! You can also like and share with your family and friends!

Reasons why your hair is falling out

by Renniestar, posted in hair loss

Hair! Hair! Hair! I mean who doesn’t like some hair? It’s the most glorious crown worn by both men and women. It kind of shows a character of a person in different ways. We spend so much on hair weaves, wigs, hair growth oils and so on & so forth.

And having hair loss can potentially impact on self- esteem, social interaction and even mental stability of a person. So when this happens don’t freak out or panic, there might be a solution for you right here!

Here are the potential causes of hair loss:

1. Hormonal Imbalance

Hormonal imbalance happens when there is too much or too little of hormones in the blood stream. (Oestrogens) these are female hormones and are friendly to hair growth and (androgens) are male hormones that are not so friendly to hair growth and can potentially cause hair loss.

Shop thyroid support supplement with iodine

2. Stress

Being stressed out can make your hair fall, exhibiting signs of excessive shedding ( telogen effluvium) which is as a result of internal imbalance or upset such as nutritional deficiency, crash dieting & severe stress or an illness.

Take your time off your work on weekends and relax. Ensure you workout or take your dog for a walk. Also meditate of your life and connect with your spiritual being, that will give you a sense of peace and relaxation

3. Iron Deficiency(Anemia)

When you don’t have enough iron your body then you can’t produce hemoglobin in your blood. Hemoglobin carries oxygen for growth and repair of cells in your body , including the cells that stimulate hair growth

Ensure you consume leafy greens and liver to enhance iron consumption in your meal portions daily and that will be a sure way to reverse the anemic condition of your body.

Get iron supplement with vitamin C

4. Hyperthyroidism/ hypothyroidism

Thyroid helps regulate the body metabolism by controlling the production of protein and tissue use of oxygen.

The loss is diffuse and involves the entire scalp rather than discrete areas, the hair appears uniformly sparse. Hair regrowth is usual with successful treatment of the thyroid disoder.

Be watchful of your iodine intake and eat foods that are anti-inflammatory and eat well by balancing your meals

5. Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Lack of Vitamin B12 in your body leaves you feeling tired and low on energy levels. Well, do you know the feeling? It affects the red blood cells, which carry oxygen to your tissues. Its mostly common in vegans as their primary source of B12 is through animal proteins.

Eating foods with B12 will have a progressive/ gradual improvement on excessive hair shedding.

Shop fast dissolve vitamin B12 with strawberry flavour

6. Dramatic weight loss

A well known acute form of condition telogen effluvium (TE) is a side effect of sudden weight loss which causes shedding hair. It occurs when your hair prematurely enters telogen phase.

Fluctuation in the Body mass index causes physical stress which signals hair follicles to move into an inactive stage.

It’s advisable to lose weight gradually rather than abruptly but if it’s an illness then go ahead and seek medical advice.

Go ahead and comment down below if you enjoyed reading this piece! Also share with your friends and family.

5 home-made face masks for a tight and glowy face

by Renniestar, posted in skin care

Running out of money to buy these expensive face masks? or you’re on a budget and cannot afford to spend alot an skincare? Then this homemade combined ingredients will definitely give you the glow like that of a celebrity💖💖.

So, these masks have different purposes depending on the problem you want to get rid off! These are acne(pimples) wrinkles, fair skin, black heads and facial hair removal.

Here are the different masks to get rid of your problem at home:

  1. Face wrinkles

Face wrinkles are the fine lines that you see forming on your face and may make you appear older than you really are. To get rid of that, get yourself this face mask;

Yogurt mask- the lactic acid and other natural enzymes present in yogurt cleanses the pores and shrinks them. This exerts a tightening effect on the skin, thus reducing the effects of fine lines and wrinkles.

* Mix olive oil with yogurt and beat the mixture until olive oil is dissolved.

* Apply the mixture on your face and neck and leave it for 20 minutes

* Rinse with lukewarm water. Use this mask once or twice a week.

Shop olive oil

2. Acne(pimples)

Acne is a skin condition that occurs when hair follicles plug with oil and dead skin cells. Can be caused by a bacterial infection or clogged pores. On this we are going to use lemons.

The acidity property of lemons makes it useful in treating acne. Lemons will clean out the dirt in the pores and harden the sebum.

* rub a slice of lemon on the affected area.

* leave it on for few hours before rinsing your face with water

✓ Alternatively, mix lemon juice with rose water in equal amounts and use the solution to wash the affected area thoroughly.

Grab rose water

3. fair skin

To achieve a fair complexion and get rid of a tanned face here is a home remedy for you!

Apple cream (instant fairness). The alpha hydroxyl acids (AHA) in apples improves your skin color and enhances elasticity.

* soak peeled apples in milk for about 20 minutes then blend to form a creamy paste.

* place it in a freezer for 10 min then mix with a tablespoon of lemon juice.

* apply it evenly on your face and neck.

* Rinse off after 15min with cool water and massage an ice cube.

√ The skin looks baby soft , smooth with a Rosy white glow. Do this for a week to get fair skin naturally.

4. Black heads

Black heads forms on the skin when a clog or a plug forms at the opening of a hair follicle. To get rid of this we are going to use baking soda. Helps clear out impurities such as dirt and debris.

* mix a tablespoon of baking soda with mineral water to make a paste.

* apply the paste on the affected area and massage gently

* allow it dry for few minutes before rinsing it off with warm water

* repeat once or twice a week.

Buy baking soda

5. Facial hair removal

This mask is extremely sticky and is able to peel off the unwanted hairs instantly. It’s suitable for all skin types except for sensitive and acne prone skin.

* In a bowl mix 1 tablespoon of unflavoured gelatin powder with 3 tablespoon of whole milk and add a few drops of lemon juice.

* heat the mixture in a microwave for 15 – 20 seconds.

* After you remove the mixture from the microwave let it cool off for few seconds then apply it directly to your face .

* repeat this as often as needed.

Shop gelatin powder

Leave a comment down below! If this was helpful also like and share with your family and fr friends

6 ways to grow strong, thick and healthy African hair

by Renniestar, posted in African hair

Thick, stronger hair is more often associated to good health. Remember the saying, “you are what you eat” that’s exactly right, whenever it comes to hair and overall body wellness, growing and seeing significant amount of hair growth it has to start from the inside then the outside.

It takes time to grow hair as an average human being grows about a half (1/2) an of hair every month, that’s approximately 6 inches of hair in a year.

Patience is a value you have to keep in the long run because you will definitely need it.

Here are the ways to help grow your hair strong, healthy and thick:

  1. Massage your scalp

Scalp massage is a practice used by many people including me! And when performed right, it can lead to strong and thick hair follicles that are noticeable. To do a scalp massage you can use essential oils such as peppermint especially because it has a stimulative property that rushes blood to your scalp. Using your finger tips (not nails) massage your scalp in circular motions.

Can also do an inversion method, whereby you sit on a chair and bend your head so that the heart is above your head or just bend your upper body like on the picture down below! 👇 and continue massaging your scalp in circular motions.

Peppermint essential oil

2.Trim your ends more often.

I know this might seem counter-intituive but to grow healthy and long hair you have to trim those ends! The more you trim the dead ends the more your hair will look & be healthier.

Also it’s best to trim after 3 – 6 months for African hair texture, you don’t have to go overboard with trimming because you want to see hair growth. But, if you feel the need to trim in between then dust off the ends. 💇 Do this 👈 only when necessary.

Grab classic pair of scissors

3.Take biotin

Biotin is found in small amounts in foods. Foods that contains biotin are liver, cauliflower, salmon,carrots, bananas,cereals, eggs,dairy products, nuts and chicken.

Biotin improves your body’s keratin structure. Keratin is the basic protein that makes up your hair, skin and nails. Taking biotin strengthens hair and nails, improves your overall skin health, supports metabollism and alot more. If you’re unable to consume foods with biotin you can use biotin suppliments.

Buy biotin suppliments

Get also liquid biotin

4.Drink lots of water

Drinking water has a great impact on hair growth. But drinking even more water has even greater benefits. Dehydration Halts your hair growth and can split your ends which makes hair even more brittle. It is recommended to take at least three litres of water on a daily basis for sufficient hair hydration!

Here is some coconut water

Hydration triggers the energy that is transmitted at the scalp that’s runs down your ends. Coconut water can also increase hydration, ensure to drink some more water💦.

5.Up your intake of Omega 3 fatty acids.

Omega-3 is an essential fatty acid that plays a role in maintenance of cardiovascular system and tissue maintenance. Can be found in fish oil which is extrated from food sources high in Omega-3s, and delivers two potent fatty acids for the body. These are docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA).

Fish oil has anti-inflammatory properties that helps in opening hair follicles and promoting hair growth. It also prevents dry and flaky scalp lubricating hair follicles while adding elasticity to your hair. The best way to up your intake is through supplimentation.

Shop your fish oil softgels

6.Eat protein rich foods

We know that protein is a body building type of food & hair is comprised of keratin which is a type of a protein that makes up hair, skin and nails. Keratin is a structural building block of your hair. It works by smoothing down cells that overlap to form your strands. Protein rich foods include eggs, nuts, seeds, legumes/beans, meat and tofu.

Get collagen peptides

Some more tips

  1. Use a leave in conditioner more often whenever you want to style your hair
  2. Do not put/pull your hair in a tight bun too often. Tie your hair loosely instead or just let it loose.
  3. Boost your intake of vitamin A&C
  4. Avoid using heat styling tools.

Take your vitamin C powder

May also want some vitamin A

Let me know if you have any questions down at the comments section! Also like and share with your friends and family.

How to make a curling custard at home

by Renniestar, posted in African hair, anti-frizz custard

Are you frustrated by curling creams that don’t work and contains hidden chemicals that make your hair crunchy and dry and never satisfying? Then worry no more there is a way and hope for you! Make your own curling custard at home using your equipments at the comfort of your kitchen!

These are the equipments that you will need:

  • Stand mixer/ hand mixer
  • Strainer/ sock
  • 2 bowls
  • Spatula
  • Storage container

The ingredients required:

  • Pre-made flaxseed gel
  • Shea butter
  • Cocoa butter(optional)
  • Mango butter
  • Guar gum
  • Essential oils of your choice
  • Preservative (optiphen+)
  • Vitamin E oil

Start with making enough gel for your mixture. How to prepare: take 1/4 cup of flaxseeds and pour in a cup of distilled water then place it on a stove at medium to low heat for about 8min.

Now sieve the mixture using your strainer or if it’s thick then use a sock to get your gel.👏 you just made your first gel at home 🎉🎉.

Grab your flaxseeds

Benefits of using flaxseeds

  • Great source of vitamin E is one of the best vitamins for hair growth.
  • Prevent hair and scalp damage.
  • Balances pH levels and oil production.
  • Nourishes your hair strands.
  • Keeps your hair conditioned & soothes the scalp.

Then we proceed to melting our butters using a double boiler method, how to do that; take your shea, mango butters also Guar gum and place them in a pyrex beaker then insert it in boiling water for few minutes until fully melted. You could also stir using a spatula to help it mix and melt faster. Allow It to cool for about 30 min.

Unrefined Shea butter

Unrefined mango butter

Now combine your mixtures together in this ratio 3 tbps of flaxseed gel to 1 cup of melted butters, add your preservative calculations 👇 below! Add vitamin E oil. Using your stand mixer/ hand mixer mix for a maximum of 15 min until thick in texture then wait for a minute and continue to mix until your mixture steadily becomes white.

To know the amount of preservative you are going to use in your batch.

Weight of the mixture – weight of the bowl = weight of the product

Weight of the product × 1% (0.01) of preservative = quantity of the preservative to use.

Pick up optiphen preservative

Using a spatula transfer your curling custard to a storage container of your choice and store it in a cool dry place. It can last you up to 6 months or up to 1 year if you reduce water in your batch.

Huraay!🎉🎉👏 You just made your curling custard at home.

Benefits of a curling custard

  1. Gives moisture and curl definition, holds and gives brilliant shiny hair.
  2. Removes frizz
  3. Provides long lasting hold
  4. Shines without ever being greasy or drying.

Benefits of guar gum in the mixture

  1. Natural hair thickener
  2. Protects hair against breakage.
  3. Helps seal in moisture on thirsty strands
  4. Adds tonnes of slip and shine

Let me know if you successfully made your first curling custard down at the comments. Also like and share with your family and friends!

Reasons why your hair feels dry and brittle

by Renniestar, posted in African hair

Dry brittle hair

If you have started to notice your hair feels non-stretchy, unmanageable, breaks off easily and tangles at the ends, cannot be combed then you probably have dry brittle hair. Most of us with African hair texture suffer from this problem alot and it’s because our hair is curly and the sebum that we produce cannot reach to the ends of our hair to offer protection to the hair cuticle.

Unlike straight hair the sebum is able to travel through the hair shaft to the ends. This is not to worry you at all, with the right mindset and technique you can get your hair moisturized in a matter of 30 mins or an hour depending on your hair length.

Before jumping into moisturizing your hair let’s first look into hair porosity, porosity is the ability of hair to absorb and retain moisture. It affects how we should moisturize our strands for efficient moisture absorption and retention, start by performing a porosity test.

Low porosity- has a tight cuticle that makes it hard for moisture to penetrate and may require heat to help the moisture absorb into the strands, how to know: it floats in a clear glass of water.

Medium porosity- has a looser cuticle layer, allowing for steady but moderate flow of moisture in and out of the hair how to know: it suspends at the middle of a clear glass of water.

High porosity- has a cuticle that is raised making it easier for moisture to penetrate and also to escape, how to know: it sinks to the bottom of a clear glass of water.

Here are some of the techniques and ways you can get your hair moisturized:

  1. Choose a shampoo that is formulated for dry hair- when buying your shampoo check on the ingredients list and choose the sulphate free ones which will not strip natural oils from your hair.
  2. Skip the daily shampoo- reduce the amounts of time you wash your hair to washing it weekly or bi- weekly for African hair texture.
  3. Use moisturizing masks often- after a week of protective styling and over manipulation of hair and maybe even usage of heat treat your strands to a moisturizing mask, which penetrates quickly to the hair shaft. Make sure to use aplastic shower cap after for about 30- 45 min or even do it overnight.
  4. Protect your hair at night and in harsh weather- after moisturizing your hair use a silk or a satin scarf at night ( don’t use cotton as it’s going to strip moisture out). Also when going out in harsh weather cover up your hair with either a hat or a stylish satin scarf.
  5. Avoid usage of excessive heat: blow drying and flat ironing makes our hair beautiful however, this may destroy your strands and cause permanent damage. Be careful and use a heat protectant spray, cream or serum. Also invest in the recent heat tools that shows temperature.
  6. Air dry your hair whenever possible- after washing your hair avoid using a towel to dry your hair and use a t-shirt instead to remove excessive water then follow up with an oil or butter like Shea & mango and allow it to dry for the next few days in a twist out or braid out.

More tips

Ensure you get your beauty sleep for at least 8 hours daily for your body to recover and circulate blood all over the body organs including your scalp, and also get other nutrients.

Drink plenty of water daily and eat foods with large percentage of water content like cucumbers and watermelon. It’s recommended to drink at least 8 glasses of water daily.

Exercise also at least 30 min everyday and if you’re unable to do that, at least take a walk, get active at home with other activities like jumping ropes and playing football with your family.

Tell me if this article was helpful to you down at the comment section! Also like and share with your friends and family!

You may also like this!👇

  • Methods used from ages for hair growth
    Throughout the annals of history, humanity’s pursuit of luscious locks has given rise to an array of intriguing practices aimed at fostering hair growth. From the fragrant concoctions of herbs to the gentle touch of fingertips on the scalp, these age-old rituals have been handed down through generations as secrets to thriving tresses. Herbal wisdom has been a steadfast companion on this journey, with nature’s bounty offering ingredients like aloe vera, coconut oil, onion juice, henna, and fenugreek. These elixirs, carefully concocted, hold the promise of nourishing the scalp and coaxing reluctant follicles into action. The art of scalp massage, practiced across cultures, holds more than just relaxation in its grasp. Fingers dancing upon the scalp not only melt away the stress of the day but also revitalize blood circulation, breathing life into dormant hair roots. Venturing into the realms of traditional medicine, the rich tapestries of Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine unfurl. Within their scrolls lie intricate prescriptions for hair health, offering a holistic approach that transcends mere aesthetics. Yet, as we traverse these time-honored trails, it’s important to tread with awareness. The efficacy of some practices rests in cultural heritage rather than scientific validation. While dietary adjustments rich in biotin, zinc, iron, and protein may enhance hair growth, not all herbal remedies yield the promised results. In the modern age, where our hair battles extend to the realm of heated styling tools and chemically laden products, the wisdom of our ancestors can guide us back to basics. Gentle care, minimal aggression, and the embrace of natural beauty are threads that weave through these practices. However, should your hair-related concerns deepen, seeking the counsel of professionals becomes paramount. Dermatologists and healthcare experts stand as beacons, illuminating the path between anecdotal lore and clinical verity. As we peer into the mirror of history, let us honor the past while navigating the present, for within this delicate balance lies the secret to a head of hair that tells its story with vitality and grace.
  • Why is my hair shedding so much? As an African woman with type 4 hair, what could be the cause?
    Hair shedding is a natural process that happens to all of us. On average, we lose between 50 to 100 strands of hair each day. However, if you notice that your hair is shedding more than usual, it could be a cause for concern. As an African woman with type 4 hair, the cause of … Continue reading Why is my hair shedding so much? As an African woman with type 4 hair, what could be the cause?
  • Natural hair growth past neck length
    Has your hair been stuck up at neck your neck length? Here are some of the tips to help you cross that awkward stage. Let us dive into the content of today help your hair grow to the desired length you have always wanted. Just to give you a little bit of history concerning African … Continue reading Natural hair growth past neck length
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    Write your full name Street address Apt/suit/unit City state Phone number Make your payments via PayPal at this email>>> njoki044@gmail.com or WhatsApp +254716103825
  • Watch “Aloe vera for hair growth!” on YouTube

How To Get a Supple, Soft & Glowing Skin

by Renniestar, posted in Uncategorized
Photo by pexels..

It’s every woman’s desire to have a soft, clear skin without any blemishes, yes, that’s right most of you have used so much money on cosmetic products that promises good results but after sometime you are left to regret with inflammed, clogged pores that caused breakouts all over your face. I know that you are frustrated and are looking for ways to get your glow back! With these tips I’m about to share with you, you will definitely get your skin popping again.

Cleansing

Before you put anything on your skin, you definitely have to start with a clean face. Make sure to use gentle cleansers if your skin is sensitive and dry. Waking up in the morning do cleanse as well as when you come back home after a long day. It’s advised by most skin care professionals to wash your face 2 times a day to avoid drying out your skin.

Exfoliation

After cleaning your face, follow up with exfoliation. Exfoliants vary in different textures and benefits, there are moisturizing ones and those that are harsh to your skin so, between physical and chemical exfoliants, I personally would choose chemical ones like Alpha hydroxyl acids (glycolic acid) which are gentle to the skin unlike physical ones I find them irritating to the skin and if not done right, it may lead to more skin damage. For deeper pore cleansing (this applies to those with acne) use BHAs like salicylic acid…these are some of the benefits of using AHAs:

  • Increases collagen production
  • Tolerates more skin types
  • Get rid of acne scars revealing a newer and brighter skin.

It removes the outermost layer of the epidermis making it a weekly or bi- weekly go to product for a glowing renewed skin.

Revitalizing face masks

Using face masks come with wider range of benefits especially after exfoliation. We have restoring face masks, smoothing & glowing there are many, that’s a whole new topic to discuss. So for today I will just do an overview of all of them. These are the benefits of doing face masks on a weekly basis for peel off masks:

  • Removes facial hairs from your skin.
  • It smoothens the skin.
  • Reduce appearance of large pores.
  • Absorbs excess oil produced by your face.
  • Alleviates clogged pores.
  • Firms skin & evening out your face.
  • Dimishes fine lines increasing hydration.

Moisturize your face

This is the deeper part that cannot be overseen but should be overdone actually, you will have to moisturize to give your face some love💖 without this your face can dry out, become dull and pale and also crack. That’s why you have to keep on moisturizing morning & evening. These are some of the benefits of moisturizing your face:

  • Moisture helps prevent further breakouts- when skin is irritated and dry it tends to cause breakouts and acne.
  • Facial moisturizers help to balance your skin’s complexion and prevents acne breakouts.
  • Makes your face softer, smoother and glowing.
  • Helps in reduction of appearance of fine lines and dry spots.
  • Nourishes your skin with a protective layer that acts as a barrier against environmental pollutants.
  • Some facial moisturizers offer protection from the sun , soothing sensitive skin.

Additional tips

Use a good sunscreen with an SPF factor

Pay special attention to certain special areas after the age of 30. Areas like neck and hands become loose gradually also observe dark under eye circles and puffiness.

Switch your skin care routines with change in seasons did you know dry and cold weather can rip moisture from your skin? Take precaution and and change with seasons.

Ban chemicals, don’t be lured by fabulous advertisement you see try read the ingredients list before you purchase a product.

Make up removal. Do not forget to remove any traces of makeup from your face every day, sleeping with makeup clogs your pores and triggers breakouts and pimples.

Sleep beauty. While we sleep our bodies repair damaged cells and replenishes the old ones, get your beauty sleep for at least 8 hours daily for a beautiful and glowing skin

Stay away from bad habits. Addiction like those of alcohol, smoking , tobacco can lead to serious skin disorders & problems. They are responsible for premature aging, fine lines and wrinkles, make sure you stay clean from inside out for a glowy skin.

If this was helpful don’t forget to like and share with your friends also comment down below! For any questions and queries.

Learn to do it yourself otherwise nobody will do it for you~ by Rennie

How to grow long African hair

by Renniestar, posted in African hair care and maintenance

Many of African women suffer from dry, messy & brittle hair. With the relaxers and blow drying culture that we have makes even hair growth impossible. Lack of awareness about porosity, hair type causes even more problems.

But worry no more because I’m here for you!

With hair growth comes in a whole new wave of knowledge, that you will have to learn and also do it yourself (diys) as we like to call it.

Here are the starts of hair growth:

  1. Know your porosity
  2. Moisturize, moisturize!
  3. Deep condition regularly
  4. Sleep on silk or satin pillow case
  5. Trim, trim & trim!
  6. Comb hair correctly
  7. Use a hair growth oil
  8. Massage your scalp
  9. Eat a balanced diet
  10. Minimize heat Styling tools

Know your porosity

Many of you may have heard this but may not know what it means, porosity is the ability of hair to absorb and retain moisture. To be able to determine that you will have to do a porosity test. Pluck a strand of hair and put it inside a glass of water, if your strand settles at the bottom then yours is high porosity, if it settles at the center then yours is normal porosity, and if it floats then its low porosity. By knowing this, you will be able to know which products to use for your hair for maximum length retention.

Moisturize, moisturize!

To moisturize dry, coarse hair you will start from the inside out. Make sure you drink 8 glasses of water as recommended, and also use water based products if your hair is high porosity.

Use a hair cream or lotion to moisturize dry frizzy hair as a leave in conditioner daily. Make sure you put some more on the ends as sebum (the oil that is produced naturally) is not able to reach the ends because of the curly, coily nature of our hair, making the ends prone to dryness then later to break off! Follow up with a sealant like Shea butter or mango butter.

Don’t forget to dampen your hair before putting on any product.

Deep condition regularly

Deep conditioning is the process of applying a restorative formula to your hair it can be to moisturize or to strengthen (protein treatment) hair strands thus, offering healing properties to your hair. It’s mean’t to penetrate the hair shaft and restore elasticity to your strands!

Deep treatments vary according to the state of your hair. If for example you feel your hair is to dry you may want to use a moisturizing deep conditioner and if your hair feels brittle and breaks easily then you use a protein deep conditioner. Deep conditioning every other week or every after two weeks however, will depend on your schedule and hair length. Frequently doing this will definitely improve your hair texture and elasticity.

Sleep on a silk or a satin pillow case

Use a silk or satin scarf to tie your hair at night or sleep on a silk pillow case to ensure your hair is not striped of its moisture. Avoid using cotton pillow cases as they strip moisture out of your hair. Get yourself some silk bonnet or pillow cases.

Trim, trim, trim!

Hair grows approximately half an inch every other month for an average african woman that’s 6 inches per year. Unfortunately, there is no way of avoiding splits so with that, you have to trim those frizzy, dry coarse ends to be able to have manageable hair and enhance products penetration into the hair cuticle. If you don’t cut them off! It’s going to create tangles leading to more breakage then hair loss.

Comb hair correctly!

Combing hair is an area often neglected by many and combing it incorrectly causes even more damage than good. If hair is not properly detangled it’s not going to remove all the shed hair exerting pressure to the rest of the hair hence more damage. Start combing your hair from the ends all the way up, by that you will remove all tangles and shed hair effectively.

It also helps to stimulate hair growth and spread sebum from the scalp to the rest of the hair. Since our hair is curly, coily the sebum is not spread all the way down to our ends unless we comb our hair correctly.

Use hair growth oil

Growing long hair requires so much care and oiling the scalp is on of them! Dry scalp is prone to dandruffs, psoriasis and many other problems that later leads to massive hair loss.

Massage your scalp

Ensure you apply some oil of your choice I prefer some coconut oil/ jojoba oil for my scalp, it calms my itching scalp and moisturize also. Use also essential oils like tea tree if you have flakes on your scalp & peppermint oil which stimulates hair growth.

There is a wide range of benefits from a head massage and especially scalp massages.

It increases blood flow to the scalp thus stimulating hair follicles and enhancing hair growth. Massage your scalp with your fingers (not nails) in a clockwise motion two times a week.

You can use some hair oil to do this but it can also be done without.

Eat a balanced diet

Ensure that you eat foods with more nutrients and anti-oxidants.

Up your intake of vitamins especially in the mornings and also lots of proteins like beans which are plant-based. Get Omega 3s & 6s from fish and chia seeds or if you cannot get from food buy supplements.

Minimize heat styling tools

To see significant hair growth and retention, you will have to reduce heat usage upto seventy percent. Extreme heat temperatures damages your hair cuticle leading to dryness and breakage.

Some more tips

Wash your scalp properly and ensure you get rid of flakes. Also don’t wash your hair too often limit to once a week or once after two weeks but do a co-wash in between. Enjoy your hair growth journey by reducing stress and exercising.

If you like these tips go ahead and share with you friends! Also comment down below!