Who is your fave celebrity MakeUp Artist?

Good Morning, Readers!

I was watching TV last night (very rare for me, I rarely have time to watch much TV) - and I saw my FAVORITE makeup artist Mally Roncal on TV. I love her spirit and she does an excellent job. Seeing her and listening to her renewed my spirit and my love for MUA (makeup artistry). I had gotten away from it a bit, but that is my ultimate career goal. I took the "safe route" and got my degree in Computer Science. While I like technology, I have a love & passion for skincare and makeup that I cannot ignore. So I've decided I'm going to take the necessary steps to achieve that goal. I also have my own business which will be a vehicle to fund this dream. So tell me... do you have a favorite MUA? Who is he/she? And what is YOUR dream?

Do share... :)

This Week's Natural Hair Feature: MsButtahFly!

Denyelle, better known as MsButtahfly to those who know here via Twitter and YouTube, has been one of my main natural hair inspirations and her videos helped me through my transition and early natural months. Here, she shares her story with us :-)

1.       How long have you been natural? Did you transition, BC or both? 

I have been natural for 4years; I chopped on May 10, 2006.  I did not transition, my chop was an impulse decision, and I was hot one day and just decided to cut my hair because I was tired of dealing with it. (I had APL relaxed hair)

2.       What reaction have you received since going natural? Did you announce your decision or did you just do it? 

I did not announce it, I was about to cut my best friends hair, and said “You know what? I’m going to cut my hair too!” She and my son thought I was just playing until I walked out of the bathroom with one inch of curls.  I was in shock and thought I looked like a little boy, didn’t like it at all. The next day, I went to my local beauty supply store and bought all kinds of fancy earrings and sunglasses. I also started to do my makeup a little differently. By day three my confidence was through the roof!! I received a lot of “OMG I can’t believe you cut all that pretty hair!!” and “Why did you cut your hair??”, but I didn’t let that bother me, I was becoming a new me.

3.       What are your current fave styles to do on your hair? Do you have a staple style? Please share how you achieve it. 

My favorite style for summer is a low curly ponytail with bangs accented with a headband or flower. For winter, my favorite style is a Bantu knot twist-out which is achieved by twisting hair, Bantu knotting it leaving it in overnight and fluffing out in the morning. The bigger the better!!!

4.       What has been the most significant change within yourself that you've noticed since going natural?  

I have noticed that I’m more outgoing and carefree. If I get caught in the rain, who cares??? ;)

5.       What do you love most about being natural?  

The flexibility that natural hair gives you is ongoing, as long as your hair is neat and clean, you can just about wear any style. 

6.       What are your must-have products? Any favorites that you cannot do without? 

My MUST HAVE products are Econ clear gel, for my slicked back pony puffs, Africa’s Best Curl Keeper, for twist outs and any twist or braided styles, Shea butter/olive oil mix, water is also a must, and my big stretchy bands…I could go on and on. :-)

7.        Finally, any advice you'd like to give to women who have just BC'd or are thinking of going natural? Please share :) 

If you are leery or afraid to show your natural hair, do your research online via Natural Hair Blogs, Natural Hair websites, and YouTube, you will see how natural women exude a beauty and confidence that’s like no other. If you have the guts to just go for it and cut it all off then GO FOR IT!! Otherwise, transition with braids, cornrow styles, or weaves. I also recommend that you see a natural hair stylist in your area for that first chop, that way you’ll get it right! Also, don’t worry about what people think of you, you are doing this for YOU and the well being of your hair, not for anyone’s approval. Be patient!!!! This is really important because everyone hair grows at a different pace, and we all don’t have the same hair texture. Embrace what you have and rock it!!! 

 MsButtahfly is also a HOT makeup artist. You can follow here here: MsButtahfly on Twitter, MsButtahfly on YouTube 

 

Keep Going!! Quitting is NOT an Option

Hi, Everyone!!

I've truly been inspired today. I mean, seriously inspired. Some people are inspired by words from positive people, or good things that have happened. And that is fine. I am usually inspired by the same. But TODAY... today I am inspired by a minor setback. It isn't necessary to go into detail about what it was exactly, but know that I am just fine. I am ALWAYS blessed, no matter what. But the setback inspired me to get out of my comfort zone, get out of my own way, take ownership of myself and my business, and TAKE ACTION. I already have EVERYTHING in me necessary to do what needs to be done. It's time to do it. I have a goal to reach by September 18th and I WILL reach it.

That being said, I hope you are ALL having a blessed day. Please choose to let small issues to be stepping blocks and NOT hurdles. Let NOTHING stand in the way of the future you want to have. Trials build character, and when I reach my goal I'm going to have a hell of a story to tell!!! ;-)

KeetaRay

Meet Naomi! This week's natural hair feature!!

1. How long have you been natural? Did you transition, BC, both? I have been natural 2 years (anniversary was July 4th), Yes I transitioned for 6 months before the BC, I had about 1/2 a inch to 1 inch of her left :) By the way my hair is back where it was when I cut it.

2. What reaction have you received since going natural? Did you announce your decision or did you just do it?  I was telling everyone I was going to do it I had (bsl) relaxed hair, I took pictures and sent them out as I was doing it the BC everyone was shocked but said it looked cute on me.

3. What are your current fave styles to do on your hair? Do you have a staple style? Please share how you achieve it :) Well my staple or favorite is my chunky twist out I use Bonner Brother moisturizer to set it and each night I pull my hair in a loose pony tail on top of my head without retwisting by the end of the week it is HUGE and beautiful.

4. What has been the most significant change within yourself that you've noticed since going natural? I have more SWAGGER, it has been the biggest confidence booster and people are always asking me if it's a wig or telling me that they are thinking about going natural and ask for advice.

5. What do you love most about being natural? The FREEDOM, the $ I am saving (my savings account is thanking me) and the time that I can never get back because I was sitting in a SALON for 2 to 3 hours.

6. What are your must-have products? Any favorites that you cannot do without? Must have is my shea butter mix that I make,WATER, and I must say that 3.99 Bonner Brother moisturizer.

7. Finally, any advice you'd like to give to women who have just BC'd or are thinking of going natural? Please share :) I can san just take the plunge but you have to be ready and do it at you own time, don't let anyone talk you into or out of it. Because when I do my mini twist and it takes me 5 hours nobody is helping me. Most importantly be happy and accept you texture don't wish for somebody else hair because more than likely someone is wishing for your. Just DO YOU!!! :)

(1st picture twist out, 2nd press, 3rd front braided with twist)

Product Reviews: Curl Clouds & Pop Curls Curly Jelly from SafiHaircare

The lovely owner of Safi Hair Care, Alex, was gracious enough to share 2 of her wonderful hair products with me to review for you all. I currently use her Avocado Shea Hair Butter for twists/twist-outs and absolutely love it.

The first product I tried is called Curl Clouds. It's described as a light mixture that is great for curl definition, daily moisture, and styling. It can also be used directly on the body to moisturize your skin. It has a very light and pleasant scent.

Ingredients: Raw Shea Butter, Vitamin E, Extracts of frankincense and myrrh, aloe vera gel, sweet almond oil, unrefined coconut oil, honey, and agave nectar.

When I tested this product, I used it on damp hair for curl definition. I applied in small sections from root to tip. It left me with a soft hold and good definition.
--------------------
I also tried Pop Curls Curly Jelly. This is her new curl definer that she plans to release when the summer is over. It's a curl definer that gives a medium hold.

Ingredients: Water, organic flaxseed gel extract, rosemary e.o., pepperment e.o., and vitamin E.

I tried this on wet hair (dripping wet, right out the shower). The wetter your hair, the better the curl definition. Smooth it in from root to tip in small sections. You can scrunch, shake, or diffuse your hair once you're done with the application. I just let mine airdry, as I usually do with wash and go's. My hair was not crunchy at all but definitely had a good hold.

I give both products an A!! I will be purchasing in the future. I posted the link for Safi Hair Care's online store below.

Safi Natural Hair Care Online Boutique

Meet Tamara! This week's natural hair feature!!

1. How long have you been natural? Did you transition, BC, both?

My 4 yr nappiversary is in October.  I transitioned for 5 months and then BC’d.  It was the most liberating thing, I’ve ever done in my life.  I recommend it because it give you the opportunity to learn your hair as it grows. 

2. What reaction have you received since going natural? Did you announce your decision or did you just do it?

Many people were more shocked that I cut my hair than anything.  I believe the natural thing was a bonus.  I received a lot of positive responses about going natural but my mom was concerned that I made the conscious decision to BC rather cut all my hair off. People were aware that I was transitioning but the BC was a huge surprise.  Most people said they liked my natural hair and ‘it looks cute on you” was the typical response.

3. What are your current fave styles to do on your hair? Do you have a staple style? Please share how you achieve it :)

Currently, I love twist out, it’s easy, cute and helps  me to effective moisturize both my hair and scalp. My staple is the curly puff.  You can find information on my Curly puff here

 

4. What has been the most significant change within yourself that you've noticed since going natural?

I’m more confident and it’s a sincere confidence more than a superficial self-esteem that was a consequence of other’s opinion of me.   Many times I was identified as the girl with the long hair.  After I cut my hair, I could no longer hide behind my hair.  I really had to take a long hard look at myself.  When I went natural I removed the mask of societies and others definition of beauty.  I was afford the opportunity to define my own individual beauty.  I feel free to be me, uniquely.

5. What do you love most about being natural?

I love the individual beauty of it and how comfortable I am in my own skin regardless of the weather.

6. What are your must-have products? Any favorites that you cannot do without?

The Original Fragrance Shop moisturizing shampoo and hair pudding conditioner. Giovanni Direct Leave-In Condition, Olive Oil and Shealoe.

7. Finally, any advice you'd like to give to women who have just BC'd or are thinking of going natural? Please share :)

For those thinking about going natural, naturality is a lifestyle change and it’s a journey you must have patience and faith that your hair is growing perfectly for you.  Your natural hair is like a finger print it is unique to only you.

Tamara is the creator of the site www.naturalhairrules.com - Be sure to check her out :)

~KeetaRay~

Meet Evelyn! This Week's Natural Hair Feature

Meet the lovely Evelyn!! She is my first blog feature for Natural Hair and shares her story... Check it out :)

1. How long have you been natural? Did you transition, BC, both?

I've been natural for 5 months, relaxer free for about 17 months. I transitioned for maybe 11 months (i didn't keep track of my starting date because i didn't know what "going natural" meant...). Then I cut the remaining relaxed ends in my dorm room with the support of my closest friends!

2. What reaction have you received since going natural? Did you announce your decision or did you just do it?
My friends thought it was cool and "me", but my parents didn't quite get it. I made it very clear that I was through with relaxers, my friends and family could either be excited with me or not.

3. What are your current fave styles to do on your hair? Do you have a staple style? Please share how you achieve it :)
So far, no style beats a simple wash n' go! My two strand twist-outs are few and far between, because I personally prefer the "shrunken" look to stretched out styles. I co-wash with Hello Hydration (for now) and run Kinky Curly Curling Custard through my wet hair. I get shiny, springy coils every time! 

4. What has been the most significant change within yourself that you've noticed since going natural?
I'm more comfortable with myself. I don't feel like I'm competing with anyone anymore. I'm on another level altogether. My level. I'm more secure in myself.

5. What do you love most about being natural?
Being able to try any product, any style, WHENEVER i want. Although i'm really simple with my routine/regimen, i like having the option to switch it up at any time.

6. What are your must-have products? Any favorites that you cannot do without?
Kinky Curly Knot Today & plain ol' unrefined organic Shea Butter! My hair treat (it's costs $$$) is Miss Jessie's Super Sweetback Treatment - it has done wonders for helping me reduce breakage and retain my length, so it's well worth it! 

7. Finally, any advice you'd like to give to women who have just BC'd or are thinking of going natural? Please share :)

Whether a shaved head or a 2-year long transition. Just remember, you look beautiful when you feel beautiful. Simple as that :)

Tomorrow's First Blog Feature...

Is Evelyn!!! Stay tuned for her interview :)

~KeetaRay

How I Did My Twist 'n Curl

If you follow me on Twitter (@1KeetaRay), you know I promised you a "How-to" of the style I twit-pic'd yesterday of my hair.
Here is the look:

Here are the instructions:

• Washed my hair with Mixed Chicks Shampoo to clarify/remove product build-up. This step isn't necessary.
• Cleansed with Hair Rules Creamy Cleanser to add extra moisture before conditioning. Clarifying can really strip moisture from your hair.
• Conditioned with Hair Rules Quench Conditioner & detangled in the shower in sections. Rinse conditioner out. Note: I never wash my hair with hot water. I make it lukewarm & rinse with cool water.
• Applied Kinky Curly Knot Today Leave-In throughout.
• Section hair to twist (doing single two-strand twists all over)
• I have in a container a mixture of pure, unrefined shea butter with about 2 teaspoons of orgranic extra-virgin coconut oil mixed in. This is what I always use when twisting for moisture.
• In addition to moisture, you need a product that will give some hold. For this twist out I used Miss Jessie's Silkening Cream (just a fingertip amount) to each section to twist. Note: You don't necessarily need to use both the shea/coconut oil AND Miss Jessie's. You can use just Miss Jessie's but my hair tends to get dry fast.Or, instead of Miss Jessie's you can use a small amount of alcohol-free gel for hold (I like EcoStyler or ic Fantasia olive gel).
• After I'm done each twist, I "finger-roll" the ends & secure them with bobby pins so the ends are curled. You can use rollers/rods to curl your ends. I only did this b/c I cannot find my rods and had to get creative. So if you don't have any, you can do it this way. (See pic)

Please understand, I know these twists are NOT cute. They are not meant to be "seen". Lol This is just while your hair air dries :) **CHECK OUT THAT SHRINKAGE**

• When you're done twisting, let your hair air dry. I do this overnight & take them out in the morning. IMPORTANT: Make sure your twists are completely dry when you take them out. If not, it WILL frizz.
• When dry, I take a small amount of coconut or jojoba oil, rub into the palms of my hands and unravel the twists carefully (after removing the rods/rollers/bobby pins, of course). Be careful to prevent frizz. I usually then separate each unraveled twist into another 2-3 sections to make my hair "bigger".
• Do this all over until you're done. Finger-style, add accessories... MAKE IT YOU. :)

In the winter, this style would last me 3-4 days without having to retwist. But due to the humidity and to keep definition, I will retwist every other night. Remember to sleep with a satin bonnet/scarf, or a satin pillowcase!

Hope this helped you ladies :) You can substitute products, of course. Let me know if you have questions.

KeetaRay