Transitioning From Relaxed Hair to Natural Hair + Two Ways to Do This

There are only two ways you can go from relaxed to natural hair:  Slowly Transition or The Big Chop. Which one you choose is entirely up to you. There is no right way or wrong way to begin this process.  It doesn't matter which way you choose, as long as you get your desired results of a head full of natural hair in the end. 

Transitioning: This is the process of eliminating chemical treatments and allowing the hair to grow out while gradually trimming the chemically processed ends.  Most people generally trim their relaxed ends as their natural hair grows; this also helps to keep breakage of your natural hair down a present a more healthy appearance.

If you are not comfortable with short hair while transitioning your natural hair, you can have some individual braids added to your natural hair.  As long as you keep your scalp moisturized and your hair conditioned, you can avoid that awkward adjustment between short hair while your hair grows to a more comfortable length.

There are some cons to transitioning from relaxed to natural: The texture of your hair will not be consistent: which means if you decide to wear your hair in a twist out or braid out style the root of your hair might be curly while your ends will be bone straight.  There are a couple of things you can do here.  You can add the extensions as I have suggested above, or you can simply roll the ends of your hair with rods or rollers to curl the straight ends.

The process of transitioning takes longer than if you just did “the big chop" so be patient and do what is healthy for your hair, and what you feel comfortable doing. 

If you would like to have some individual braids, faux locs or twists installed while you are going through your transition, be sure to give Mosci a call at 619.642.9382. 

The First Black Female Millionaire Madam C.J. Walker Sold What You Make + Get Busy Producing

If you know anything about history, you know that one of the first Black female millionaires in America was Madam C.J. Walker. Walker became wealthy from creating a line of Black hair care products.  She truly saw something that no one else did during her time.

The truth is, since Walker generated her fortune, Black women have been spending hundreds of millions of dollars on hair care products and hair extensions to the extreme.  With no end to spending in sight. 

It seems as though we have either given, or lost control of the Black hair care industry.  We spend the most money, but own few to no hair care lines or hair supply stores.  Hopefully, people will become more aware of this truth and things will change with Black hair care products.

I brought this up because there are many of you that create and use your own hair products.  Products that truly promote hair growth, and healthy hair.  But for some reason you won't produce it in mass amounts then market and sell it.  Do you know how many Black people need your hair care products?   Get busy producing and marketing those hair care products in mass amounts to sell to an already receptive market. 

If you haven't tried "Mosci" a light weight hair pomade that gives a super shine while promoting healthy hair by Styles With Personality, be sure to contact us for a jar at 619.642.9382.  

Three Tips For A Natural Looking Weave

Okay ladies, let's talk about how to achieve a natural look with a sew in weave.

A BAD WEAVE will be a reality for you, or someone you know at some point in your life.  It goes something like this..... you have a friend, or family member that has in a weave.  And she is wearing it like it is a $2000 hairdo.  But, you can see that something is really wrong with the weave.  It might be that the hair is not blended well, the color or texture is completely wrong, or it just doesn't look good on her.  Of course, you don't want to hurt her feelings so you don't say anything. 

Here are some tips on how to achieve a natural look while wearing a weave:

1) Try to match the hair to YOUR hair and hair color the best you can.  If you do not have BONE STRAIGHT HAIR, please, please don't spend your money on hair that doesn't match yours. You want your weave to look as natural as possible. If you want to go lighter, you can always color your hair to achieve this look by using a temporary or permanent dye. If you’re going to spend your money on hair, be sure to purchase top quality hair, you will more than likely get the look that you are going for.  You buy cheap, you get a cheap look.

2) Blend, Blend and keep Blending the hair together. If you get a full weave and you leave out some of your hair for a more natural look, there are a few ways to style it so that it will blend with the hair weaved in. Be sure to purchase a good curling iron or flat iron. Make sure you curl or flat iron the hair so it blends easier.

3) Take care of your weave the same way you would with your natural hair, and it will last much longer.  Make sure you comb it out before washing it and avoid using alcohol and harsh products that can dry the hair out.  Always condition the hair.  If you don't mind making the investment, go back to the salon to have your stylist wash, condition and style your weave. This way you know it will be done correctly.

Be sure to take care of the hair, it will last longer and look more natural.

10 Tips For Making a Visit to the Salon a Smooth Activity For Your Child + the Beautician

It is a beautiful thing to see your baby girl with some beautiful braids in her hair.  Mothers, do you agree?

Let me share something with you.  There is a world-wide head-ache that sometimes happens when a little girl has to sit down in a beautician's chair to get her hair braided.  Of course, the little girl is never happy to be participating in said ritual. So she lets her displeasure show by whining, moving around and needing to go back and forth to the bathroom. 

MOTHERS!! we are only their beauticians.  We are not their disciplinarians.  With your help to keep your child seated in the chair and holding her head in positions that we need them too, this will speed up the process to get her on her way back to living the life of a child! And us on our way to our next client. 

Ten Ways You Can Help Your Child's Beautician

1. Have a conversation with your child about what to expect when getting her hair braided.
2. Share with her the rules to getting her hair done.
3. Let her know that there should be no crying.
4. Show her videos on Youtube that exhibit what will be done to her hair.
5. Show her a before and after picture of her hair and then ask her which hairstyle she wants.

6. Rehearse with her a hair braiding session so she can get an idea for how she will need to sit.
7. Explain to her how important it is for her to do what the hairstylist want's her to do.
8. Pack her a light lunch.
9. Bring her favorite book, toy or electronic device.
10. Enforce discipline.... we don't mind!!

It is really an amazing thing for a little girl to get her hair done.  All that trouble for her to soon emerge from the salon chair feeling like a big girl.   

Hairstyles You Can Do With Individual Box Braids + Chunky Braids + Great Styles For Young Girls

Just about every young Black girl likes individual braids or twists. Because the individuals open up hair-styling to versatile hairstyles which look classy and mature, yet they are very simple to do.  Box Braids, or Chunky Braids are a big hit with younger girls. This is a plus because the Box Braids are a protective style for natural hair and are low maintenance.  Box Braids are great for girls with thick healthy hair.  They don't generally wear well if hair is brittle and damaged. Because of their size, they can cause more harm than good to your natural hair.  

Some of the the coolest hairstyles can be worn with Box Braids....  Buns. This is probably the most popular way to style box braids into a classic up-do. The major advantage of buns is their variability. High buns can be bulky or more compact, loose or tight, simple or with elements of braiding. Ponytails are another simple, but classic style. The ponytail can be swooped up high and wrapped with a beautiful silken scarf or attach a hair flower or some other hair accessory. Twists also look great with Box Braids.  You can twist your ponytail or front section off your forehead, for instance.
   

If you are in the San Diego area, and would like some Box Braids / Chunky Braids Individuals, 

give Mosci a call at 619.642.9382.

Appropriate Cornrow Hairstyles For Young Girls + Tweens

Hair-styling is an art and the most expressed example of it is being done in CORNROW hairstyles.  Cornrow hairstyles are a traditional hairstyle worn by both Black men and women.   Because of the hairstyle popularity, the hairstyle is being worn all around the world by people in just about every country around the globe.  Celebrities like David Beckham, Alicia Keys, Carmelo Anthony have also worn cornrow styles and have gotten raving accolades from fashion experts.   The great thing about wearing cornrows, is that they last for weeks as long as you tie them up at night and care for them as needed.

Cornrow hairstyles are created by wrapping hair around hair strands close to the scalp.  Stylist are creating some beautiful styles with hair like, straight cornrows, curvy, slanting or circular cornrows, depending on the kind of style the client wants to wear. The cornrow is a very classy and easy hairstyle to wear.

Check out a couple of really cool cornrow hairstyles here that have been created using Marley Braiding Hair.

For really cool cornrows, individual braids/twists or crochet braids give Mosci a call at 619.642.9382 

Men and Cornrows a Creative Expression + How to Keep Your Braids Fresh Looking

In the wake of the creative hair movement, hundreds of beauty shops and stylists begun promoting and braiding men's hair in cornrows.  

Some cornrow styles can take hours to complete while others take only an hour or so.   

Men’s cornrows go back as far as to 2000 B.C when men adorned their hair in braids.  Yeah, 2000 B.C. is cool.  But I can remember as far back as the 1960's when Black men in my hood were sporting cornrows.  Now you see men from various parts of the world wearing cornrows for various purposes – tradition, culture or growing out their hair before changing to dreadlocks and more.

Men, when wearing your cornrows, you need to moisture your hair often.  Do not let it get dry as this will cause hair breakage.  I know, easier said than done.... well, there is a easy way.  Mix some conditioner with a little water in a spray bottle and spray your hair as you see fit each night. You can also put a light weight hair food on your scalp between the hair parts and sleep in a Do-rag to keep your braids looking their very best. 

Men generally are not seeking hair growth. However, it still does your hair good when you take care of it.  Not only will it keep your cornrows looking nice and fresh, it will prevent breakage. 

If you are in the San Diego area, and would like some cornrows, give Mosci a call at 619.642.9382.

Box Braids Do's and Don'ts + Be Fierce With Some Added Color

● DON'T pull your extensions up in ponytails to often. Pulling the hair up puts a lot of tension on your hair, and can cause temporary (alopecia) or permanent hair loss especially around your edges.  When styling your extensions, be careful with that too, as the pulling and tugging manipulation can also lead to hair loss.

● DON'T use sprays on your braids that are non water soluble.  When treating your extensions, your hair  will also get treated with the spray which can dry out your hair and cause breakage.  Consider products that you have used on your natural hair and make your own spray treatment from them.

● DON'T go swimming without a protective cap.  Swimming in chlorine water requires a clarifying shampoo. If you do not properly cleanse your hair, the chemicals will stay trapped in your hair and cause damage.

● DON'T wear your braids for too long.  Knowing your own hair, and how you take care of it is the clarifying time of "not to long" for you.  If you have XL box braids, I would advice not leaving them for more than two months to avoid hair breakage.  Especially around your edges. If you have smaller braids, they should not be left in longer than three months. By three months, your natural hair should be washed thoroughly, conditioned and given some air to breath.   Not many women suffer from hair breakage when they take care of braids the proper way.  However, many do experience hair breakage when leaving the braids in for long periods of time.... longer than three months! If you must have BOX BRAIDS, be sure to do a deep conditioning on your hair, and try to leave your hair undone for at least one day before you reinstall the braids. 

● DO be sure to sleep with a satin scarf on, or on a satin pillow case every night. This not only protects your braids but also avoids your hair from loosing moisture. I personally would not advice using a satin bonnet depending on how many braids you have and how big your bonnet is because trying to get a whole lot of braids in a small bonnet can be an unworthy battle.

● DO moisturize your braids every other night. Or if you believe your braids to be dry.  By moisturizing your braids, this will keep them looking shiny with a nice and neat appearance to them.  Remember, hair need to stay hydrated.  Even extensions that your hair is attached too.

● DO cleanse your scalp by shampooing your hair. Dirty scalp does not aid in hair growth.

● DO be sure to oil your scalp. Dry scalp does not promote hair growth.

● DO enjoy the freedom of not having to comb and style your natural hair daily.  Braids can be fun and easy to wear, with noticeable hair growth.  Be open to trying different hair colors and styles.... be fierce in your individual BOX BRAIDS.  Be sure to be HAIR HEALTHY!!!

Picking The Best Hair for Your Extensions

When it comes to hair extensions, the choices and brands never end.  When selecting your hair, you want a great brand.  The hair you use will determine the quality of your individuals, crochet braids, weave or twists.  Who wants to walk around with a hairstyle that looks like it was done by an inexperienced hairstylist?? I know I don't!!!  

The hair that you buy for individual braids, twists or crochet braids is generally inexpensive, unless you elect to spend more on the hair.  Which I suggest you do. Don't never substitute quality for price.  Pay the few extra dollars to get a quality hairstyle.  Hair that isn’t of the best quality will make it hard to make your hairstyles look great.  Oh yes, you can do it, but it will be a chore every time you do it.  Extensions are meant to make life easier.  Not harder!!

When installing CROCHET BRAIDS, I generally use Janet Collection: HAVANA MAMBO TWIST BRAIDS.  Click here to purchase.

When installing individual braids / twists, I generally use Femi Collection: Marley Braids. Click to purchase hair here.

Get Maximum Wear Out of Your Crochet Braids

If you are trying to decide if you should get CROCHET BRAIDS but you can't seem to understand how you will keep them looking fresh and new.  Worry no more!!

It starts with the foundation for your CROCHET BRAIDS. Be sure to find a cornrow pattern that you like.  After putting in the cornrows, make sure that they are very secure.  Secure braiding will ensure that your hair will not come a part. Bad braiding is the main reason for CROCHET BRAIDS not lasting as long as they should.  After you have secured your cornrows, begin to use your latch hook needle to feed the bulk braiding hair under the cornrow and  pull over through the looped hair. I suggest that you secure the crochet hair with a knot of two. 

 

Now, after installing the CROCHET BRAIDS, you are pretty much ready to live a life free from combing and styling hair for a month or two.  If you choose the curly crochet braids, you won't have to do anything to the hair other than wear it.  When you select a curly pattern, you get more life out of the style.  Generally, looser curls seem to tangle, frizz up and will get knots on the ends.  

To keep your CROCHET BRAIDS looking good, you can use water from a spray bottle to help pull the hair apart. Bigger curls generally stick together during the night.  You can also use some Shea Butter Conditioner mix with a little water in a spray bottle to help keep your natural hair moisturized and hydrated.  Be sure to separate the synthetic hair to expose your scalp and braids to spray the mixture.   

 

In short, to keep your CROCHET BRAIDS looking fresh while taking care of your hair: Keep the hair tied up at night, keep your hair and scalp nourished underneath,work out tangles and knots as needed with a moisturizer, cut the knotted ends when needed, co-wash as needed, shake and Go!  That's all to it!! 

If you are in San Diego, and would like to try out some CROCHET BRAIDS, please give Mosci a call at 619.642.9382.

The hair used in the post is Janet Collection: HAVANA MAMBO CROCHET BRAIDS click here to purchase.

Cornrows Are The Perfect Everyday Hairstyle For African American Moms + Their Little Girls

Cornrows are the perfect braided hairstyle for little girls and their moms.  Not only are cornrows cute, they save time in the morning, while rescuing mom from the everyday hair struggle.  Let's not leave out the fact that they are great for protecting your child's hair during the cold and hot seasons.   

As women, we all know how important it is to not worry about combing our hair in the morning, having cornrows in your baby girl's hair allows her the same luxury.   Wait, you have no idea how to put in cornrows?? Well, don't worry, there is always a hair salon with a patient stylist waiting to do you daughter's hair.... it's so worth the investment!

No matter who does your daughter's cornrows, make sure that the stylist doesn't put too much stress on the edges of the hair, as this can cause hair breakage.  It is always better to have a healthy head of hair rather than a cute hairstyle that will eventually break your daughter's hair off. 

If you are in the San Diego area and would like to schedule a hair appointment with Mosci, give her a call at 619.642.9382.  She will be glad to style your baby girl's hair. 

Healthy Hair Care is an adopted practice!

Is My Daughter to Young to Wear Extensions in Her Hair + What is the Proper Age For Extensions

I get this question a lot.  "IS MY DAUGHTER TO YOUNG TO GET EXTENSIONS??"

Let me say this in writing! Not me, or anyone else can tell you if your child is to young for extensions. If you feel as a parent the best hair care for your child would be to have individual braids, cornrows or twists in her hair, by all MEANS, have some extensions put in her hair!  Now, if you are talking about a baby or a child that is a toddler, I wouldn't advise it.  But again, it is your child, and you should know what is best for her.

On another note, Black women as a whole will never deny the convenience of forsaking the daily routine of constant manipulation to our hair.  Not to mention how the extensions protect our ends from damage.  Why would you not want this for your daughter's hair? 

However with a child there are more things to consider when deciding to have extensions added to her hair.  One, how thin is her hair?  Two, how fragile is her hair?  The younger the child is, the thinner her hair is. And the older she gets the texture will change, hopefully becoming much thicker. Remember, with most children up until the point of puberty their hair is thinner and fragile and can break and get damaged more easily from the stress of extensions.  Even though this is a hair reality for a lot of children, it is not the reality for all.  I have added extensions in little girls hair as young as two years old, because their hair was thick enough, and healthy enough to handle the extensions.  I have cornrowed little girls hair as young as one year old because their hair was healthy enough to manage the style.  So, again, it would depend on the parent, and the state of the child's hair.

My opinion is, if you don't feel comfortable with having extensions in your baby girl's hair, a great way to get the same look is to braid, cornrow or twist her hair,  just as you would with extensions.  Her hair will still be protected, and the style will promote growth.  When all is said and done, age is just a number.  The appropriate age for extensions is, who really knows???

How to Grow Your 4c and 4b Hair + Protective Style For Fragile Hair

So, you have researched and discovered that you have KINKY 4b/4c hair type, which is very fragile. You have also learned that it is very important that you use good hair products to care for your hair.  Moisturizing is the key to keeping hair healthy.  However, it won't matter how much you moisturize or condition your hair, if you are not handling it right.

Okay, I tell my clients over and over how important it is to wear protective styles - Twists, Cornrows, Braids, Coils, Tuck and Roll Styles - because for those with fragile hair types it’s one of the key areas of length retention.

Make a mental note, write it down, or carry a key chain that says "when you wear protective styles this helps prevent breakage of the hair, matting and tangles."  Not to mention that great moisture retention the styles provide.

Once you have learned which products and protective styles compliment and promote hair growth for your hair, stick with that regimen.  Be smart to notice the difference in how much breakage you experience, the amount of split ends that appears, and eventual growth.

Because of the frailty of 4b/4c hair, you might want to finger-comb your hair instead of using a wide tooth comb or a brush each time you detangle your hair. Finger-combing is more gentle on your hair and you can feel when hair is tangled or snagged.  Yes, it takes a lot more effort with your hair when Finger-combing, however, this method should help to reduce hair breakage even more.

One thing is an absolute when it comes to healthy hair care.  It is a routine of consistency.  You must keep up this routine of low manipulation to see some worth while results.  You can't do this for one week, or even two weeks and see massive results.  Healthy hair care takes months of consistency!!

Hair that is textured like ours grows on the average of 1/2 inches per month.  

The Best Looking Faux Locs Can Be the Ones That You Wear + Protective Hairstyle

 
FAUX LOCS are another hot, hot style that Black women are sporting with pride.  Faux locs pronounced "Foe Locs" come in a semi-permanent style in which a person's natural hair is parted into sections like individual braids or twists and then wrapped with yarn, synthetic or human hair. This temporary style can lasts up to three months or longer if maintained correctly.  Faux Locs are considered to be a protective style because it doesn’t require chemicals or any physical altering of the your natural hair.  Permanent FAUX LOCS are just that - Permanent! Because of its capability to remain, this is a hairstyle that one should seriously consider before having done.  This style is generally wrapped with human hair around your natural hair, or actual human hair locs are attached to your roots. That’s right, dreadlocks from another person’s head are attached to yours. At some point, natural hair can be re-twisted and turned into a loc as the hair grows.

One should not be fooled by the term "Protective style" when getting this style done. Because it doesn't mean "Protective", therefore be neglectful of your own hair.  Proper hair care and maintenance is an ABSOLUTE must when it comes to FAUX LOCS!  Your scalp should be oiled daily, washed and conditioned at least every other week.  Proper care of your Faux Locs will present a luxurious glow to your hair after the Faux Locs transformation!

Consider wearing a real satin bonnet at bed time with this style.  The satin bonnet will prove to be very beneficial in preserving your hairstyle. It will also aid in keeping your hair moisturized.

Moms + Tweens and Teens Agree When It Comes to Individual Braids

In today's world of fast and easy, teens as always looking for quick and easy hairstyles to match their busy lives.  If your tween or teen wants individual braids, it's important for them to know that keeping their hair moisturized and conditioned while in the braids is the smartest and healthiest thing that they can do for their natural hair.  Paying attention to their natural hair while in the braids will help to prevent breakage.

Most tweens and teens enjoy the versatility of individual braids.  This hairstyle allows them to create different types of hairstyles.  Usually moms, tweens and teens want to take a break from the daily challenge of combing the hair, hence one of the reasons for individual braids. If your tween or teen has dry, brittle and breaking hair, you might want to consider braids which promotes hair growth.

There are times when moms, tweens or teens get braids because of the hair being damaged from chemical processing and frequent use of heat and styling, which further damages the hair. In addition, braids are a great way to keep your hair looking great during cold, rainy months or even during hot, humid months, when it becomes more of a challenge to keep the hair from frizzing.

A great addition to braids is to add a different color braid in with the primary color this will add a nice touch of highlights to the hairstyle. Another cool thing tweens or teens can do with the braids is to wear them straight hanging down, or to curl them by braiding the braids in a couple of big braids and then dipping them in really hot water... be very careful while doing this.  The hot water can possible burn you.  When she wants to change up, she can re-dip the braids to make them straight again.

Individual Braids Are Manageable + Easy to Maintain + You Can Create a Variety of Styles

 

Are you having a hard time choosing the right style for your hair? Well don't worry.  Individual braids is one of the easiest styles to maintain and manage. Not only that, they're elegant and classy.  They can be worn in styles for when you are dressed sharper than 2:45, going to club or for a casual outing. You will definitely be able to find that perfect look with individual braids.

Be sure to spray your individual braids every other day, or nightly to keep them from looking dry and old.  An idea mixture for your hair would be some moisturizer and conditioner with a couple of drops of coconut oil or extra virgin oil. Or you can purchase a jar of STYLES WITH PERSONALITY'S Hair Food which promotes hair growth and keeps the hair conditioned.  Just be sure not to over treat your braids.  Extra wet or oily braids will collect dirt and cause a build up.

Healthy Hair Care is an adopted practice!! 

Learning How to Cornrow Takes Practice + Time + Patience

 One thing is an absolute when it comes to learning how to cornrow hair.  It takes a lot of practice and patience.  If you don't take the time that is needed to learn how to part and separate hair before trying to braid  and style it, you will definitely get discouraged and not try anymore.  Doing cornrows came fairly easy for me coming from a family that wears braids, and that has done braiding of hair for generations. 

My braiding skills have gotten better and better with each hairstyle that I create.  Just because you didn't come from a family of braiders, that doesn't mean that you won't eventually get the hang of creating beautiful cornrow styles on your daughter's hair.  Just be sure to practice and watch as many braiding tutorials as you can.  And I promise, at some point you will become a pro!

The purpose of this post is to encourage moms that enjoy cornrows, or individual braids for their daughters hair to stay encouraged.  In addition to you learning how to braid, let your daughter learn at the same time by you purchasing two doll heads that the both of you can practice on.

Good luck with the braiding journey! Please be sure to share your progress with us on our Facebook page at STYLES WITH PERSONALITY! 

If at some point you find that cornrowing or individual braiding is not for you, I invite you to give me a call for a FREE quote for your daughter's hair. 

Braids + Beads: Its Not Just a 2015 Thing, Its History

When you get your daughter's hair braided with beads, you are taking part in a social activity that goes back many, many years.  Her braided hair is showing love and appreciation for something that has been passed down from generation to generation. Not too mention not having to comb your child's hair for a good two weeks. All the Black mother's say "AMEN!"

Not only were braids worn back in the days, they were embellished. The braids with beads and other adornments, was a way for people to show their class of life, marriage status, age and wealth. The more intricate the hair, the higher up the social ladder you lived, think about it, who really has time to sit for long periods of time to get braids, and then to have them adorned... ONLY a person with a lot money!!

Braids are thought to have originated in East Africa, the oldest evidence of braids are a stone carving featuring a woman with braided hair found near the Nile river.

Certain tribes believe that loose hair should only be worn during mourning and that un-braided hair is seen to be in poor taste. Could this be where African American's got the natural routine of  "getting" their hair done.  Maybe, just maybe.

Braiding is said to be a social event that bonds young children and older women together as the elder braids hair using techniques that took time to master and styles that have been passed down from generation to generation.

From now on when you see a baby girl, young girl, or even a tween with her braids, and they are adorned.  Think about how many grandmothers, G-mas, aunties and Big mamas braided hair, generation after generation while passing the skill down to their young. 

History is, as history does.  Healthy Hair Care is adopted Practice!

***WE RECOMMEND "GIMME" SQUEEZY BEADS. THEY DON'T MAKE NOISE, AND THEY ARE EASY FOR THE CHILD TO SLEEP ON!!*****

Individual Braids + Twists Is Not The Only HOT Hairstyle For Black Women

Well, well, well.... individual braids and twists are so much in style women from the hood to "Holly-weird" are rocking them.  Another happening style that is making a strong appearance is Crochet braids.  Although they have been on the scene for a long time they have truly gotten their props within this last year.  

The most attractive looking style of the Crochet braids is the look of the Bantu knots and flat twist when they're taking down and styled. The curl it gives is beautiful, tight and creates volume.

Let's get this straight, Crochet braids are not a new trend; women with money, and knowledgeable hairstylists have been rocking this style for years! The style looks so real because your hair is cornrowed and hair is crochet onto your hair with a special tool giving a very natural look. This style is easy, low-maintenance and very versatile. 

The great thing about this style it doesn't have to be sewn in and you don't have to sit at the beauty salon all day to get done.

Okay, so the first thing you need to do is choose from a variety of braiding hair. Marley is one of most common and popular one's. Then, your natural hair has to be completely cornrowed.  The pattern of the braid is completely up to you. Or your stylist.  The crochet hair will then be attached to your hair with a latch hook, which is very easy and basic.

It is just that simple!  Now the fun part begins.... style your hair how ever you would like it to look.

You asked how to maintain it?? No worries.... simply use tea tree oil, and of course, make sure that the hair doesn’t get wet. Just that EASY!!

The Truth About Synthetic Hair

Synthetic hair has come a long way in recent years.  In some cases it is difficult to tell the difference.  The texture feels almost like human hair.  As a matter of fact, with some of the higher quality synthetic pieces, you would never know they were not natural human hair if you didn’t have the human hair right next to it to compare!

The most appealing aspect to synthetic hair is it can often be worn right out of the box with little or no styling.  The fiber used has "memory" for wave, curl and volume which lets hair bounce back into place with minimal effort -- the curl pattern is permanently set.  It can even hold up in bad weather and can guarantee no drooping or frizzing.

However, what synthetic hair offers in ease, it lacks in versatility.  It cannot be styled to look many different ways like its human hair counterparts. Only special Heat Friendly synthetic hair is heat style-able to change the curl pattern. Keep in mind, even the heat friendly fiber can be difficult to style as synthetic fiber is more resistant to change. Synthetic hair is also less durable than human hair.

Synthetic hair is a polymer. It is composed of fine plastic fibers, made to look just like human hair.  Basically, synthetic hair is made from low-grade acrylic that is heated and strung into strands to make individual hair fibers. The strands are then laced or tied into extensions and hairpieces. Typically, these types of synthetic hair fibers are used in costume wigs, and lack the movement and texture of real hair.  The appearance of these fibers is waxy and plastic.  The more sophisticated synthetic hair has texture and luster, and could be passed off as human hair. The fibers range in type from straight to kinky/curly with coarse surfaces to silky/smooth surfaces. The complex methods of spinning synthetic polymers into fibers include using volatile solvents and a spinneret to form multiple continuous filaments. Both, mono-filament fibers and poly-filament fibers are used to fabricate the hair. Typically, fibers of mod-acrylic, vinyl chloride, vinylidene chloride, polyester, nylon are used for artificial hair.  Each of these fiber types are made by combining two or more polymers in one chain via melt spin or solvent spin processes.   

And you wonder why your SCALP is ITCHING!!! Synthetic hair is a treated plastic that you more than likely are allergic too.  You can soak the hair in APPLE CIDER VINEGAR and let dry before installing the hair.

One Good Thing That Your Hair Needs But Can Cause Weak and Fragile Hair + Breakage

DEEP CONDITIONING can be your hair's friend or its enemy.  Although conditioning is a very important part of our hair care regimen, some women believe the longer they leave the conditioner in the better.  Meet me at the water cooler, because I have some news for you!  

According to hair care experts leaving conditioner in hair for long periods of time, or overnight is extremely unnecessary.  Hair hair is weaker and more fragile when saturated in deep conditioner, especially water based conditioners.  If left in hair overnight, a person is more than likely going to move around a lot, turning their head a number of times. This may cause a lot of rubbing and hair strands may be pulled in the process, which may end in broken or weakened hair strands.  This can cause hair to shed or break over a length of time. 

I would suggest that you deep condition your hair once a week after every shampoo.  Once you have a pretty solid routine down for your hair care, you may increase or decrease how often you deep condition based on what your hair needs and on your lifestyle.

Tips For Removing Braids + Twists From Your Natural Hair

When removing your extensions be sure to cut the installed hair at least a half inch or more below your own hair and take down with the use of a rat tail comb from the end of the braid to the root. Be gentle when removing the extensions, depending on how long the braids have been in, you can cause some unnecessary hair loss by ripping and tugging to hard.  When uninstalling the hair, you might notice a gathering of product, dirt and lent all mixed together at the base of the hair or along the hair shaft. This is nothing to worry about.  This is a normal occurrence if you keep extensions in for any length of time.  If this happens, you can use an oil and conditioner mixture to loosen the hair that is matted starting from the roots to your ends.

After uninstalling your entire head, on a fully detangled head of hair, shampoo, condition and comb through your hair using a wide tooth comb.  Add a generous amount of deep conditioner to your hair. It can be leave-in or wash out. Now you are ready for a new hairstyle... even more braids or twists!

Signals That Your Individual Braids or Twists Are to Tight

After years of self styling, and styling others hair, here are some very important thing that I've learned during my journey of wearing, and installing extensions to promote healthy hair.

There are some stylist that will style you completely BALD! There are several things that come to mind when I think about installation techniques.

1. TENSION AND EDGE CARE
Some stylists are heavy handed, in which they use entirely too much tension on the hair, pulling it away from the scalp when braiding and twisting as if this is going to make the hairstyle more spectacular.  This is a major assault on the hair follicles and can lead to traction alopecia and even permanent hair loss. It is sad to say that this happens more often than I would like to say. 

Here are some signals to let you know that your braids are too tight.

1. If you have a headache after installation. This definitely should not happen. However, it can happen if you are extremely tender-headed.

2.  If you have little bumps or redness around your hair line or general scalp areas causing discomfort, tingling or itching. Those are inflamed or irritated hair follicles.

3. If you notice a nice amount of white bulbs around your hair line or general scalp area, that is being caused by infected hair follicles.

4. If your face and hairline have you looking like you have had plastic surgery because your braids are so tight, this should never, ever happen.  **This is when you call me to book an appointment. **

5 Things To Consider When Combing a Tender-Headed Child's Hair | Protective Hairstyles Are a Great Thing

Chances are you are reading this post because you have a child that is tender headed.  And combing that child's hair can be a serious challenge.  Dealing with wiggling, crying, whining, and the excuse "I need to use the bathroom" is even more of a headache.  Taking a tender-headed child to a professional stylist is often no better, because of the public display of drama that your child will display.  No worries, there are five simple things that you can do to help make combing your tender-headed child's hair more pleasurable.

1.  Make sure that you have something to keep the child distracted.  Television, a hand-held game, electronic notebook, or coloring book and crayons. 

2. It is very important to use a conditioner after shampooing your child's hair. You can also use detangling spray, hair lotion or hair oil according to your child's hair texture. 

3. Be sure to comb hair in sections. Generally four sections is cool. However, if you find that you need to make more sections to create more comfortable for your child, then do that. Working in sections will make a noted difference when trying to comb your child's hair. 

4. Always, always, always work from the end of the hair towards the scalp. Remembering that the scalp is tender... hold the hair in your hand tighter at the root without pulling it.  Doing this will reduce tugging on the hair and scalp as you comb or brush the hair.  Around the neck and behind the ears are very sensitive, so be extra careful when combing those areas. 

5. After shampooing, conditioning, and making the hair manageable, it would be a great idea to style the child's hair in a protective hairstyle.  This could include cornrows, individual braids, or twists.  These type of hairstyles can stay in for at least two week's at a time.  Just be sure to moisturizer the hair while braided. This will give you, and your child a good two weeks of freedom from the "hair struggle."

Get Rid Of Dandruff In Your Child's Hair Once and For All

There are times when you might see something that looks like small snow flakes in your child's hair, on her scalp.  This more than likely is dandruff.  Dandruff is not contagious and most of the time it is not a serious condition.

Dandruff is a very common scalp condition (among all races of people) that causes the skin on your scalp to itch and flake up.  The condition is generally explained as a scalp reaction that causes the natural cycle of skin replenishment to occur more quickly on your scalp.

No worries, dandruff can be controlled fairly easily.  If you have a mild case of dandruff, you can get it under control by shampooing your hair regularly with a gentle shampoo.  However, if you have a more severe case of dandruff, medicated shampoos or physician assistance may be necessary.

Dandruff is a condition that is usually simple to diagnose.  If there are flakes of dead skin present in your hair and on your shoulders coupled with an itchy scalp, there is a good chance that you have dandruff. The condition can be impacted by the climate that you live in. Fall and winter months are usually the most difficult times of the year for people with dandruff due to indoor heating contributing to dry skin and scalp.  Dandruff usually improves during the summer months.

Tea tree oil has been medically proven to be a natural anti-fungal and functions as a good disinfectant. You can mix 5-10 drops of tea tree oil in your shampoo and wash your hair as normal.  I believe the method is more effective after shampooing your hair, mix 1 tablespoon of tea tree oil into 1 cup of warm water or Aloe Vera juice, spray into your scalp and let it sit for a few minutes. Gently pat the extra moisture out, but don’t wash it out.

The Right Way to Take Care Of Your Daughter's Hair While It Is In a Protective Hairstyle

Let's talk about protective hairstyles for children.  A protective hairstyle can be your very best friend when it comes to healthy hair care for your child.  Any style that keeps the hair’s ends secure, and can be left in for a week or longer with very little daily handling is considered a protective style. This could be cornrows, individual braids, box braids, twists, flat twists or a number of styles.

One of the reasons for protective hairstyles with girls, is to promote easy hair maintenance and hair growth.  There are times when the child's hair will not grow.  A possible reason why you may not see any growth of your child's hair (African American hair) could be because you are manipulating your child's hair too much, and too often causing fragile and weak spots in turn can cause breakage.  Another way for me to say it is, if you’re combing and brushing your child’s hair every single day, this may be the main reason why your child's hair is "refusing" to grow.   In some cases, her hair might be breaking off faster than it’s growing.

If this happens, give your daughter's hair some down time from all the combing and brushing with an adorable braided style, or some cute cornrows.

Okay, we understand that protective hairstyles are a good thing, but putting your child's hair in a protective style doesn't take away the fact that you still have to do some maintenance on her hair until the hair is uninstalled.  The hair and scalp still need to be taken care of. By doing this, you can be confident that your daughter's hair will experience its maximum growth while in braids or twists.

One simple hair care maintenance routine is to keep your child's hair and scalp moisturized while it is in braids.  You can purchase a small spray bottle at your local beauty supply or Walmart.  Fill the bottle with moisturizer (mixed with a little water) and a few drops of your usual conditioner. Spray the mixture on your daughter's hair every other day (or nightly if your child has extra dry hair) and you can then seal her hair with Extra Virgin Olive Oil, or any oil or butter.

Healthy Hair Care is an adopted practice! 

You Are The Reason Why Your Hair Is Breaking Off

Every woman wants to look beautiful. And sometimes to save ourselves a little money we will do our own hair. If proper hair care is not a part of your routine before you install any type of hair, damage will occur.  If your hair becomes damaged, it becomes fragile and weak and there will DEFINITELY be some hair breakage.  And no one enjoys hair that is unhealthy looking.  If hair extensions are continued through damaged hair, you will eventually see thinning hair or even bald spots. Before the breakage becomes a "Girl, my hair is breaking out" to a 911 emergency, get some Protein ASAP! If you are not comfortable doing this, consult a hair care specialist. 

Stop taking chances with hair breakage.  Give Mosci a call at 619.642.9382 to set up an appointment.  

Health Hair Care is an adopted practice at Styles with Personality!

How to Stop Itchy Scalp While Wearing a Sew In Weave or Individual Braids + Twists

 Many women suffer from dry, itchy scalps before, and after installing a sew in weave or individuals.  And not being able to easily scratch your scalp can make it an unbearable situation.  There are women who want the freedom that comes from wearing weaves, individual twists and braids, but won't get the style because of the itching problem their scalp will be subjected too.  Stop worrying, there are ways to solve the itchy scalp problem while wearing braids or a sew-in weave.

To start, irritable scalps can originate from the installation process.  The best thing to do, is to shampoo and condition your hair thoroughly before having your sew in or individuals done.  During the installation process, your stylist should be sure to have your braids slightly pulling at your scalp and the wefts of extensions are not sewn too tightly.  When keeping styles in longer than a couple of weeks, proper shampooing at least biweekly will help prevent itchiness from even occurring!

If you have held true to the above process, but still suffer from itchiness, try applying soothing oils to your scalp.  Create a mixture with a few drops of tea-tree oil, olive or coconut oils in a nozzle tip applicator bottle and shake well.  The nozzle tip makes it possible to apply the oils directly to your scalp around and through the sew-in weave, twists, and braids.  Tea tree oil is antibacterial and anti-fungal while adding a refreshing tingle to your scalp.  Be careful not to over saturate your scalp because the oil will begin to run down your hair and give your weave or individuals an oily look to them..... not cute!

Another quick tip for itchy scalp is to apply dry shampoo to your scalp.  This is an amazing quick fix if you do not have time to shampoo your hair.

How to Build a Good Hairstylist + Client Relationship + Don't Be the Client From HELL

A woman's relationship with her hairstylist can be like her relationship with other important people in her life.  When things are going well, the woman is happy, blissful, and feels a great life balance; but when things go wrong, life is a disaster and she doesn't know what to do.

Like with any interaction between two people, a successful relationship is mostly about good communication. Regardless of the stylist who does your hair, sometimes you end up with an untalented or incompatible stylist, and you just have to let them go.  **That's when you come find me!!! :O)**

On the other hand, you should never be the client from HELL!!!! No stylist wants to deal with a client who demeans, disrespects, or treats them as an underling. The goal for both sides should be to build a solid long-lasting "healthy hair care" relationship.

What is Retraction Alopecia, and How Do You Get It

You have spent almost an entire day with your stylist getting your individual braids/twists installed.  And by the time you get home, they still HURT!!! If this happens each and every time you get your hair braided, you are going to end up with some major hair care problems.  One being something called RETRACTION ALOPECIA!! 

This is a small or localized hair loss area caused by repetitive or persistent pulling or traction on hair roots. Tight braids and ponytails can pull hard enough on hairs to make them fall out. If this happens, it's best to choose hairstyles that put less tension on hair. The sooner this is done the better to avoid permanent damage.

Here are some tips to help with too tight braids or twists:

1. Massage the loose area of your scalp.  When doing this, you are effectively pulling hair away from the scalp and loosening the braids. 

2. Jump in the shower and let the warm water run all over the braids.  Begin to rub your scalp gently, but vigorously.  

3. Use a small object like a pencil or something smaller to push lightly in the middle of the braid to help loosen it.  You can also use a small comb to loosen those braids up. 

Healthy Hair Care is an adopted practice!  

The Benefits of Using Coconut Oil on African American Hair

 

 

I am a die-hard stylist that believes in the benefits that Coconut Oil provides for Black Hair Care.  Check out some of the benefits below.

 

Coconut Oil shields hair protein with the Lauric acid being a major component of the oil which gives its protective qualities.  Lauric acid is a fatty acid that easily binds hair proteins and helps in protecting the roots of the hair strands, and in turn prevents hair breakage.

Coconut Oil also seals in hair moisture and helps to keep hair strong if regularly applied.  Coconut oil penetrates the hair shaft where it conditions the hair from within.

Coconut Oil contains antibacterial and anti-fungal agents that give the oil the ability to protect your scalp against dandruff, which can stop the natural growth of hair.

Coconut Oil is a rich source of nutrients like vitamin E, vitamin K and iron. These nutrients are essential for maintaining your hair’s shine and softness. Vitamin E is particularly effective in preventing dandruff, which is a major cause of  hindered hair growth.

 

HOW TO PREPARE FOR INSTALLATION OF INDIVIDUAL BRAIDS OR TWISTS

 

Many clients ask me what can they do to prepare for installation of their braids or twists.  I generally recommend that they condition their hair really well before braids are installed.  I also let them know not to use braids, weaves or twists to get away from taking care of their hair.  But to use the protective hair style while doing everything that they can to keep their hair healthy.  Getting braids/twists will not solve any hair damage issues that might exist, they will only make the damaged hair worse. I also recommend that they buy a braid fiber that is light so hair is not weighed down. 

  When you prepare for your braids/twists to be installed this will help your stylist to glide right through installing your braids or twists, and you will be on your way, sooner than later!

THE BENEFIT OF CROCHET BRAIDS and WEAVES

 As a Hair Extension Specialist, I have clients who want styles that will protect their hair, look nice, and are low maintenance.  One of the best styles that I recommend is crochet braids.  In today's world, there are many options for protective styles: sew ins, individual braids,  twists, cornrows, and CROCHET BRAIDS  and CROCHET WEAVES!  This style is easy and fast to install, healthy to wear, and can be worn in a variety of styles.

When crochet braids or weaves are installed properly, many people can’t tell that you are not wearing your natural hair.

Like to give crochet braids a try?  Great, click here to go online to book your appointment today!

REASONS FOR GETTING EDGES RE-BRAIDED AFTER A CERTAIN AMOUNT OF TIME

New growth can get ridiculous, real fast! There are times when you don't have time to uninstall and reinstall the entire set of braids, or twists.  No worries, the first two rows can always be re-braided/twisted.  Re-braiding the edges gives the look of newly braided head of hair.  And no one is the wiser that you only did the first two rows.  

This maintenance practice saves you time, and money.  After taking out the edges, be sure to detangle and deep condition before getting the braids redone.  Your edges are already fragile, so be sure to give them a little LOVE.  Doing this can make a protective hairstyle last a lot, lot longer.  i.e. a style can last for two months instead of one.

Need a touch up on those edges, be sure to contact Mosci at 619.642.9382!  Or book your appointment online by clicking here. 

HEALTHY HAIR CARE TIPS FOR AFRICAN AMERICAN CHILDREN AND TEENS MINI BOOKLET DOWNLOAD

CLICK ON THE COVER TO DOWNLOAD THE MINI HEALTHY HAIR CARE BOOKLET!!

THE REAL REASON TO WEAR PROTECTIVE HAIRSTYLES

Protective styling is meant to be short-term temporary. I always recommend protective styling for a month at a time - 2 months maximum.  Any longer than that and your new growth will stretch and become damaged; this completely defeats the point of protective styling. Protective styling is to give your fragile ends (edges mostly) a break and focus on new growth.

HOW TO KEEP YOUR GIRLS HAIR MOISTURIZED UNDER BRAID AND TWIST EXTENSIONS

I believe the best way to moisturize individual braids, or twists extensions is to use a water-based spritz followed by sealing with a scentless light oil.  This method allows for a nice amount of moisture without causing hair to mesh, loc, or have severe product buildup.  Heavier products, especially thick butters, can build up near the roots and facilitate meshing or loc-ing, especially in thicker individuals.  

Wearing your natural hair in braids in a nice change up, and it allows your hair some "time-off" from all the products, combing and brushing which can sometimes cause breakage. 

NICE PROFESSIONAL INDIVIDUAL BRAIDS FOR YOUNGER GIRLS | HAIRSTYLES THAT GIRLS LOVE

Young ladies enjoy their hair looking cute too.  Are you finding it difficult to find a braider to style your daughter's hair? No worries, I love braiding little girls, and younger girls hair.  For the little girls, I have coloring books and crayons, reading books and flashcards to keep them still. If that doesn't work, there is always cable so they can watch their favorite cartoon show.  For the little older girls, I have WiFi for them to access the their favorite pass times on the internet.

Healthy Hair Care is an adopted practice. Be sure to book an appointment for your little girl today!