Sunday, July 8, 2012
ShowUp ShowOut!!
Posted by
ceceUNedited |
Hey Ladies!
Its getting close to that time! I hope you ladies AND gents get a chance to join us at this lovely event ShowUpShowOut will be hosting!
Head to ShowUpShowOut.com to purchase tickets and read about the event further.
Its getting close to that time! I hope you ladies AND gents get a chance to join us at this lovely event ShowUpShowOut will be hosting!
Head to ShowUpShowOut.com to purchase tickets and read about the event further.
![www [dot] ceceUNedited [dot] com](http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_IgQvEFKlW2Y/S8u_r1RFJsI/AAAAAAAAAK8/KG92BKUQw-Q/s320/chelsea+signature+REAL.png)
![www [dot] ceceUNedited [dot] com](http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_IgQvEFKlW2Y/S8u_r1RFJsI/AAAAAAAAAK8/KG92BKUQw-Q/s320/chelsea+signature+REAL.png
)
Friday, June 29, 2012
Cute Nail Designs
Posted by
ceceUNedited |
This will be my next nail design!
Isn't it cute?!
Isn't it cute?!
Labels:
Thursday, June 28, 2012
Natural Night Out NYC!
Posted by
ceceUNedited |
Hey Ladies!
Its getting close to that time! I hope you ladies AND gents get a chance to join us at this lovely event ShowUpShowOut will be hosting!
Head to ShowUpShowOut.com to purchase tickets and read about the event further.
Its getting close to that time! I hope you ladies AND gents get a chance to join us at this lovely event ShowUpShowOut will be hosting!
Head to ShowUpShowOut.com to purchase tickets and read about the event further.
Monday, June 18, 2012
Funky Nail Design
Posted by
ceceUNedited |
Check out my nails today!!
I just had a little African-esque inspiration this week and decided to do a little bit of a funky design on my nails!
I used Essie's Tart Deco and Mamba along with a white nail art design polish. I can do a tutorial on this look if any one is interested. Let me know!!
Monday, June 11, 2012
NYC Event: Show Up Show Out
Posted by
ceceUNedited |
Hey Ladies!
I wanted to take the time to share a bit of information about this awesome event that I will be happening later this summer!
I hope those of you in the NY/CT/PA area get a chance to come out and visit this event, it will be a wonderful time!
I look forward to seeing all of you pretty ladies and handsome men 'Show Up and Show Out' on July 28th!
Friday, June 8, 2012
May's Favorites
Posted by
ceceUNedited |
Hey Gals!
I wanted to do a quick post on my favorite products for May! I have only a few. I will probably do a little video on these later this week though...
1. Bright Colored Tailored Capri's
2. Freeman: Sugar Scrub
3. Essie Nail Polish in Tangerine and in Peach Daquiri
4. Shea Moisture Thickening Mist with Yucca
5. Shea butter seal on top of Thickening Mist with Yucca
1. Bright Colored Tailored Capri's
2. Freeman: Sugar Scrub
3. Essie Nail Polish in Tangerine and in Peach Daquiri
4. Shea Moisture Thickening Mist with Yucca
5. Shea butter seal on top of Thickening Mist with Yucca
What were your favorite or go-to products for May?
Thursday, June 7, 2012
Tips to Effectively Seal Your Ends
Posted by
ceceUNedited |
by Cipriana of UrbanBushBabes.com
There is nothing like the feeling of well moisturized ends, but on the flip side there is nothing like the feeling of dehydrated ends, and let me tell you the latter is a feeling I would rather avoid. Depending on the porosity levels, density of the individual strands, texture and state of your hair (transitioning, coloring, use of heat) some may have to seal their ends more often than others, but there are a few tricks I have learned over the years that have helped me maintain moisture on my ends for longer periods of time.
1. Use thicker oils or butters such as Jamaican Castor oil or Shea butter
I have found using thicker oils specifically on my ends provides for longer sessions of moisture. After I have saturated my ends with water I will use my “Love Potion #9” concoction as my first coverage and Jamaican castor oil separately as my final coverage of protection when sealing.
2. After thoroughly saturated your ends with water make sure to squeeze the excess water from your ends
Remember normal porosity hair can only absorb so much water. Having unnecessary excess water hanging onto your ends can reduce the cover of protection as you begin to apply your oils. Remember your oils act as a barrier to seal in the moisture. You do not want your oils to slip away because you did not drain your ends first. Your ends should still have a very damp feeling to them but they should not be dripping water.
3. Use twice the coverage of oils on your ends when sealing
Your ends are the oldest part of your hair therefore more thirsty. As I always say you’re ends should be treated like your elders. They just need a little more love and attention. Remember the curlier the hair the more difficulty your sebum (the natural oils your scalp secretes) has in reaching your ends due to the very curvy path it has to travel. Sometimes sebum does not reach your ends at all so it is pertinent your ends receive twice the coverage when it comes to applying your oils or butter.
4. Once you have sealed your ends Stop, Drop and Roll, lol, I mean Protect, Oil and Roll
This tip is very important for longer lengths. As I previously mentioned the longer the hair the older it is, with the ends being the oldest part. After I seal I braid my ends, twist them, then apply more oil and roll and pin them up till they have dried. Placing your ends in a protective format such as a braid or twist can really keep your ends together and reap more of the advantages of moisture once they have dried. Twisting your ends rather than braiding might work better, especially if you are experiencing feathering (the ends of your hair tapering off in the shape of a feather). All hair naturally tapers off with age but very healthy ends should only taper a little. Also twisting provides an easier release process when you want to remove the protective styled ends.
5. Use twice the coverage of oils on your ends when sealing
Your ends are the oldest part of your hair therefore more thirsty. As I always say you’re ends should be treated like your elders. They just need a little more love and attention. Remember the curlier the hair the more difficulty your sebum (the natural oils your scalp secretes) has in reaching your ends due to the very curvy path it has to travel. Sometimes sebum does not reach your ends at all so it is pertinent your ends receive twice the coverage when it comes to applying your oils or butter.
6. Once you have sealed your ends Stop, Drop and Roll, lol, I mean Protect, Oil and Roll
This tip is very important for longer lengths. As I previously mentioned the longer the hair the older it is, with the ends being the oldest part. After I seal I braid my ends, twist them, then apply more oil and roll and pin them up till they have dried. Placing your ends in a protective format such as a braid or twist can really keep your ends together and reap more of the advantages of moisture once they have dried. Twisting your ends rather than braiding might work better, especially if you are experiencing feathering (the ends of your hair tapering off in the shape of a feather). All hair naturally tapers off with age but very healthy ends should only taper a little. Also twisting provides an easier release process when you want to remove the protective styled ends.
7. After you have sealed do not manipulate your ends until they have completely dried
No manipulation of your wet sealed ends means higher chances of your ends retaining moisture longer. Keeping your hands off ensures you are not losing any applied moisture.
8. Tuck your ends away
I know this might be the kryptonite advice for someone who loves to wear their hair down but updo styles (where your ends are tucked away) can drastically reduce the amount of moisture you lose from your ends, especially if your hair is shoulder length and longer. When your hair is down wear and tear from clothing and the elements can do a number on your ends. Now women with hair above the shoulder have more of an advantage because it doesn’t make contact with clothing. Also women who constantly cut their hair in shorter styles keep their strands in a “new state”. The hair closer to the root is the newest part of the hair therefore ensuring constantly healthy ends
9. Become a “Hair Whisperer” for your ends
Now I know this might sound strange but your ends will tell you how often they need you to seal. I seal once a week, but I wear my hair in updo styles 24/7. Someone who wears their hair down more often or all the time might have to seal more than once a week. Just like the forces of Mother Nature our body is a force and goes through many changes, whether it be hormones, diet, stress, etc. Both of these forces can easily impact the way our hair behaves so stay in tune and listen to what your ends are telling you.
10. Make sure your ends are healthy
Last but certainly not least make sure your ends are at their best before you seal. Trimming or the “search and destroy” method for split ends can drastically change the way your ends retain moisture. Unhealthy ends means you are sealing damage! Those damaged ends can travel further along the strand and create more damage and dryness.
For more hair articles like this check out UrbanBushBabes.com.
Thanks ladies! Have a good one!
Wednesday, June 6, 2012
New York Times Mini-Documentary
Posted by
ceceUNedited |
Hi Ladies!
I am actually featured in the below video which is a lovely documentary that Zina Saro-Wiwa has created. I am in the group shot where there are several women saying transition.
I really love that she has taken it upon herself to do this mini-documentary. She describes some of the themes of the movement and she explains how it is really personal reasons behind why women have begun to transition.
I think it is really important that people understand that it is an acceptance of ourselves as we were born that is behind this movement and that it is a beautiful thing that is happening.
I remember that defining moment when I just wanted so badly to have a relaxer so that my hair could look nice. Keep in mind, I didn't want it to be straightened because my hair was not nice. I wanted it done because my mother did NOT know how to do my hair. And that is not in the sense that she didn't know the styles and tactics I know now, that is in the sense that she didn't even know how to braid it. My hair was often times pushed back into a bushy, frizzy dry, blown out ponytail that was never even styled nicely for school photos.
Take a peek at the documentary below and see what Zina has to say. Shes a wonderful person and when I met her, her accent was lovely and her excitement was refreshing!
I really love that she has taken it upon herself to do this mini-documentary. She describes some of the themes of the movement and she explains how it is really personal reasons behind why women have begun to transition.
I think it is really important that people understand that it is an acceptance of ourselves as we were born that is behind this movement and that it is a beautiful thing that is happening.
I remember that defining moment when I just wanted so badly to have a relaxer so that my hair could look nice. Keep in mind, I didn't want it to be straightened because my hair was not nice. I wanted it done because my mother did NOT know how to do my hair. And that is not in the sense that she didn't know the styles and tactics I know now, that is in the sense that she didn't even know how to braid it. My hair was often times pushed back into a bushy, frizzy dry, blown out ponytail that was never even styled nicely for school photos.
Take a peek at the documentary below and see what Zina has to say. Shes a wonderful person and when I met her, her accent was lovely and her excitement was refreshing!
Tuesday, June 5, 2012
BGLH's 7 Money-Wasting Natural Hair Mistakes
Posted by
ceceUNedited |
Going natural is an exciting time. Everything is new, and you want to try every and anything that is recommended to you. But that can quickly leave your pockets thin. Here are seven mistakes that can leave you poorer.
1. Becoming a product junkie
Let’s start with the obvious — it’s very easy to overspend on products. Now, admittedly, we’re in a natural hair product boom. Older companies are constantly releasing new additions to their lines and newer brands are popping up every day. Motions, Sof N’ Free and Cantu Shea Butter all recently come out with natural hair lines, and some of the products are pretty great! To avoid spending hundreds, be disciplined about using up old products before adding new ones. And if you buy a product that you don’t like, try swapping it or selling it online before replacing it. Lola’s Green Hair is a great swap/sell site for natural hair products, and there are multiple natural hair forums online that have swap/sell threads.
2. Jumping on bandwagons
Because there’s always something new where natural hair is concerned, it’s important to have an “If it ain’t broke” mentality when it comes to your hair. This is not to say that you should never try anything new, but be WISE about what you try. The Huetiful Hair Steamer has been a great tool for many naturals, while others paid close to $200 for the steamer only to find that it didn’t do much for them. Same with the Tangle Teezer, Miss Jessie’s Curly Pudding, the Denman Brush, etc, etc. Remember that everything is not going to work the same for everybody, so don’t be afraid to let some bandwagons ride on by.
3. Getting salon trims too frequently
Most stylists will tell you to get your hair trimmed every 6 weeks. But the reality is that everything is relative. Natural hair on the whole is typically in better shape than relaxed hair due to the absence of chemicals. Plus if you are a natural that does a lot of protective and low manipulation styles, your ends won’t get much of a chance to fray, split or knot. Judge your ends for yourself to determine if you need to trim every 6 weeks, and keep in mind that some naturals only need salon trims once or twice a year! Many naturals get by with the ‘search and destroy’ method — clipping out knots and splits as they come across them. You can save money AND length this way.
4. Searching for the ever elusive “holy grail” curl definition product
Some of the most popular images of natural hair are of women with gorgeous curls — Tracee Ellis Ross, Kelis, Corinne Bailey Rae. But it’s important to remember that this just won’t happen for everybody. Period and full stop. Even if your hair IS capable of curl definition, it might be a cute look but result in excessive tangling and breakage, or you might only be able to achieve it using non soluble silicone-based products that dry your hair out, or excessively greasy products that give you a jheri curl-esque look. If you try curl definition and it doesn’t work out, move on to a different styling approach. Don’t keep throwing away money looking for a curl definer, especially since they tend to be more expensive than other conditioning and styling products.
5. Getting salon styles that only last a few days
We’re natural girls living in a straight-hair world and, unfortunately, this often means paying more at the salon. It sucks, yes, but it is a reality — for now. Given this, you must be strategic about what styles you go to a professional for and which you do at home. Don’t spend money on a $75 twist-out that will only last a week or a $80 loose-hair updo that will only last a few days. To get your money’s worth, opt for styles that you can keep in for 2 to 4 weeks, like flat twisted and cornrowed updos, or individual braids and twists.
6. Heat damage
There’s a reason many naturals stay away from excessive heat. Not only can it cause your texture to revert, the ‘hair-healing’ process can get expensive. If heat damage disproportionately affects one area of your hair — unless you’re super skilled at cutting — you will need to get a salon cut to get your hair evened out. And if you go the route of trying to rehabilitate your straight, limp strands, you’ll need to buy expensive protein and strengthening treatments, and increase your deep conditioning regimen. For the sake of your hair and your wallet, be CAREFUL with heat.
7. Overpriced natural hair events
I bet this one surprised you, huh? But the reality is that — as supportive and amazing as the natural hair community is, there are many people out to make a buck. Natural hair seminars, meetups and events have popped up all across the country, and while the vast, vast majority of them are amazing events that teach and inspire, some of them are poorly planned events with low turnouts and high entrance fees. If an event is charging a high price for entry, make sure that you know what you are getting. Check the background of speakers and seminar leaders to ensure that they are certified — by experience, or training — to give you hair advice.
I've been guilty of 1, 6 and 7. How about you ladies? Which money wasting Natural Hair habits have you been guilty of?
Tuesday, May 15, 2012
Curly Frizzies
Posted by
ceceUNedited |
Since its raining today in New York, I thought a post about frizziness would be appropriate...
Why does curly hair frizz so much?
Straight hair has a smooth cuticle with the layers lying tightly together. With curly hair, the hair follicle is curved causing the outer layer or cuticle to bend. This bending results in the cuticle being permanently lifted and becoming very fragile. Add the damage caused by chemicals, heat and friction (brushing, rubbing with a towel, touching, sleeping) and your smooth curls become frizzy curls.
What is porosity?
Hair porosity refers to the ability of hair to absorb and retain moisture. Hair with high porosity is like a sponge with many tiny holes that can absorb a lot of water. Low porosity is like a sponge with uneven holes and tears which can’t absorb or retain as much water. Curly hair cuticles are like torn sponges, while damaged curly hair is a torn sponge in really bad shape.
Do oils moisturize damaged, frizzy curls?
Many oils, including heavy cholesterols, do not have the ability to penetrate into the hair shaft. Instead, they lay on top of the cuticle, coating just the outer surface. Oils can add some shine to your hair, but they will also lead to build-up of product on your hair, which can damage your curly locks.
--
What does Cece say?
There are many ways to help manage frizzy hair. I have listed three1) Typically I would suggest twisting your hair up during those days so that your twists can absorb that extra moisture in the air and use it to its benefit, rather than its detriment (i.e crazy tangles in loose expanding hair).
2) Along with twisting I would recommend using scarves to style up your hair up and keep it protected while also looking fashionable
3) Sealants: The concept of sealing your hair demands that you moisturize your hair and seal the cuticle off with an Oil or even a product with a silicone in it.
Until Tomorrow....
Sunday, May 13, 2012
How to pH Balance your hair!
Posted by
ceceUNedited |
Morning Divas!!!
I'm just going to write a bit about pH levels- which will not require you to go searching around and looking at pH levels with litmus paper. It just requires using a rinse after your wash sessions!!
Basic Info to know first:
The pH scale runs on a range of 0-14. The lower the pH- the more acidic the solution. The breaking point for the scale is 7, which is neutral (this is the pH level of pure water). Any pH over 7 is a basic solution. pH is the measure of the "potential of hydrogen." Dry hair does not have a pH!!!! Hair's ph ranges between 4.5 and 5.5 when in water. The sebum, which is the oil that our scalp naturally produces has about the same pH. Some products on the market are created to have a pH within a range similar to hair. Some conditioners are also designed to have lower pH then the hair- its generally acidic in state.
Working with the Basics:
As previously discusses pH between 7.1-14 is basic or alkaline. These Basic solutions open the cuticle layer of hair which allows moisture, protein, almost anything to get into your hair cuticles and touch your hair's core keratin strand. Think of your hair as your spin with the vertebrae around it- when the cuticle opens we are stretching the vertebrae apart and can access your spinal cord. This is the perfect time to add protein which will strengthen your strand (though some peoples hair HATES protein). IT is also the key time to add moisture so that your hair has a nice cool drink of water with a dose of lubricants to keep things working smoothly on the inside :)! Be careful because this is also the time that your hair can lose water or retain too much, or even worse the water can dissolve leaving behind residue such as salts or other mineral present in hard water which do NOT help your strands!!!!!
This is what the baking soda washes are used for by some people- as well as to clean your hair. On average, baking soda has a pH in the range of 8.3-9.0 and when mixed with water the pH is more around 8.2-8.8 depending on the proportions. This is because water is neutral (7). Hair would be left at that pH as well (8.2-8.8) which is why an acidic rinse would be necessary to leave the hair in its own pH range or in a slightly more acidic pH range which can help the hair.
I would NOT recommend the use of baking soda on your hair, unless you are looking to relax your curl pattern temporarily. It opens your cuticles and allows your hair to retain too much water, which can also be bad- imagine overfilling a balloon with air...(yeah not a great idea). Baking soda will also steal hydrogens from your hair which is bad- like carbon monoxide stealing oxygen from the air and your body- (which is also known as a silent killer). I think you get the idea- just try not to use it.
What pH should you aim for in the end?
The best pH level to leave your hair at is around 4.0-4.5 Though hair naturally has a pH of 4.5-5.5. The reason that the slightly lowered pH level is better is because it compacts the hair strand so that the cuticles are closed securely- leaving all the moisture and conditioning you did inside the hair strand. Acidifying hair can be one of the best things you do for your hair!!
1) It will add natural shine to your hair
2) It helps detangle and prevent knotting, because closed cuticles cannot grab on to other open cuticles!
3) Elasticity: the ability of your hair to move freely- in our case without snapping and being brittle. This treatment elevates the positive charge on your hair. ( negative charged ions cause frizz and static electricity). The positive charge brings the hydrogen bonds from a weak state (beta) to a strong state (alpha) and this improves elasticity because hydrogen bonds account for all of your hairs elasticity!!!!
4) Retains moisture!! Since the cuticle is snapped shut and compacted, all the conditioning and moisturizing you did will now remain inside the cuticle and not evaporate away.
Q: How can you achieve this pH level?
A: By Doing Acid the Healthy Way!
Acidic solutions do the opposite of Basics, closing the cuticle layer and allowing moisture to be retained. So Apple Cider Vinegar is the best way to get your pH at a level which keeps hair shafts closed. The way this works is ACV has a pH of 3.0 and an ACV rinse has a pH of about 4.0 ( I will test the proportions an pH later today so I can give you an exact pH to proportion measurement). The hair would likely be left at a pH of about 4.0 or so. This should be used as a final rinse for your hair to compact your cuticles some and seal in moisture.
{Sources}
Happy rinsing!!!
Friday, May 11, 2012
6 Tips for Perfect Blowdrying
Posted by
ceceUNedited |
via MopTopMaven
- Do not blow dry sopping wet hair! Blow drying hair that is dripping wet will lead to dry, damaged hair. Carefully towel dry hair in sections using a microfiber towel prior to blow drying. When towel drying, be sure to “squeeze” not rub to avoid breakage and unnecessary tangles.
- Use a heat protectant! I always use a heat protectant when thermal styling, and I swear by Aveda Brilliant Damage Control. Good heat protectants have proteins that bind to your hair shaft that acts as a barrier to prevent heat damage. + Watch your heat setting! I normally blow dry on low heat with a high power setting. Kinky hair has a tendency to be a little on the drier side, so blow drying on high heat should really be a no-no.
- Blow dry hair until 75% dry , then sit under a dryer to dry the remainder of your hair. I prefer this method versus blow drying my hair until it’s 100% dry because it makes for much softer hair. Another plus is that you cut down on the amount of direct heat that is applied to your hair. This technique is also beneficial to those have been less than successful at air drying. Blow drying first gives your hair that “smooth” appearance, and drying under a hooded dryer the remainder of the way gives your hair the soft “air dried” feeling [minus the crunch or kink factors
- Hold the blow dryer 5-6 inches away from your hair when blow drying. Again, the key here is to avoid heat damage. Holding the dryer too close to your hair can also lead to issues with your scalp as well [dry, flaking]. + Detangle thoroughly before attempting to blow dry! Hair should be soft, smooth, and free of tangles prior to blow drying. This is the time to break out that heavy-duty seamless comb [I recommend Mason Pearson], and Fermodyl 619 if your hair is prone to tangles.
MopTopMaven applies Fermodyl after applying leave-in conditioner to help detangle. She only uses this product if her hair is very kinky or dry. Fermodyl helps with the detangling IMMENSELY and I believe it is due to the high content of lactic acid. Blow drying hair that has tangles can lead to unnecessary hair loss, as well as breakage.
Thursday, May 10, 2012
Use An Old T-Shirt To Dry Curly Hair
Posted by
ceceUNedited |
via NaturallyCurly
Instead of a towel, use an old t-shirt to dry your hair. Towels can create a scrubbing effect on your hair, removing product and damaging curl. The smoother texture of a t-shirt will prevent frizz and help to maintain your healthy locks.
Instead of a towel, use an old t-shirt to dry your hair. Towels can create a scrubbing effect on your hair, removing product and damaging curl. The smoother texture of a t-shirt will prevent frizz and help to maintain your healthy locks.
Squeeze your curls gently, never rub, in order to preserve your natural curl pattern. Move along in sections, taking a hand full of hair at a time. Keep in mind that overexposure to any type of touch can cause curly hair to lose volume or become frizzy. For best results, t-shirt dry each section of your hair only once. Be sure to squeeze out excess water and then let the final drying be by air.
![www [dot] ceceUNedited [dot] com](http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_IgQvEFKlW2Y/S8u_r1RFJsI/AAAAAAAAAK8/KG92BKUQw-Q/s1600/chelsea+signature+REAL.png)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
