So You're a Transitioner: 10 Tips To Begin Your Natural Journey

 

So You're a Transitioner:  10 Tips to Begin Your Natural Journey

By:  Lauren Francis-Jackson

 

You have made the decision to join the world of natural hair!  You may have grappled with the decision-- going back and forth, perhaps even feeling the uncertainty of what lies ahead.  Maybe, it was an easy decision to make but have no idea of where to start!  Whether it was an easy or challenging decision, you are starting a journey that may change YOU in more ways than one.  Many natural women report they have gained confidence, more positive attitude, a boost to make overall lifestyle changes, and more!  Today, let's just focus on first things first-- what to do next?!?

 

 

1.  Decide on whether you will transition by gradually growing out your natural texture, or plunge right into natural with the big chop!

 

If you don't know how you want to begin the journey, now is a great time to think about how soon you want to embrace your natural texture.  Neither way is good or bad nor right or wrong.  It just has to meet your comfort level of what you want to do with YOUR hair!  Some ladies transition for a short amount of time then want to do the big chop and some are determined to transition for the long haul as the relaxed hair is gradually cut.  You will know which is right for you!

 

 

2.  Your hair care routine will change!  You need to take care of both textures, natural and relaxed, to promote healthy hair growth. 

 

Taking care of transitioning hair is different than caring for relaxed hair.  Your hair will become more delicate-- it may be more prone to breakage especially at the point where both textures meet.  A solid hair care routine involving gentle shampoos and conditioners, deep conditioning, and easy styling will help "train" your hair as you move toward natural textured hair!

 

 

3.  YouTube (and the internet as a resource in general) will be your new bestie!

 

On YouTube, there are lots of videos on transitioning hair from hair care routines to styling!  You will gain knowledge on product usage, hair care tips, and support to continue on your journey.  Also, there is a website sponsored by Carol's Daughter (www.transitioningmovement.com) that has lots of hair care advice, stories of other transitioners, and inspiring photos showing hair progress of transitioners.  There is also an abundance of information on natural hair care, natural beauty advice, and more!  Also, search for other websites

 

 

4.  Join natural hair pages on Facebook, and follow natural hair bloggers on Twitter and Instagram!

 

I learned so much from other women who were already natural by following different natural hair Facebook pages and Twitter personalities.  Some of my favs are:

 

• Thank God I'm Natural
• Transitioning to Natural
• I Love My Kinky Curly Natural Hair
• Natural Girls Rock

Some of my favorite natural hair bloggers when I began my transition:

• Sunshine's Natural and Loving It
• Natural Chica
• SimplYOUnique
• Taren916

5.  It will be challenging at times-- any life journey has its ups and downs!

Transitioning to natural hair is no exception to any other journey!  There will be days where you love your hair, and others when you will not and ask yourself, "What in the world am I doing??!?"  That is totally normal-- when we make a big change that feeling of doubt can creep in!  Keep strong with a good hair regimen, keep positive with motivating stories and hair progress! 


6.  If you choose to wear your hair loose, do more curly styles and wet sets! 

In time, it will become more challenging to blend the two textures so curly styles are a great way to transition.  Curly styles like flexis, spiral curls, and bantu knot outs all allow one to wear your hair in fun styles while blending the two textures as much as possible.  You also do not want to damage the new growth by pressing it as straight as the relaxed hair. 


7.  Use braided styles, sew-in weaves, and other styles where your hair is fully protected. 

When I transitioned, I wanted to let my hair grow through protective styling where my hair is braided up and not exposed to the rigors of daily manipulation.  Braids, kinky twists, sew-in weaves, wigs, cornrows, flat twists, braided updos, and afro twists are all examples of protective styles where your hair can grow from being braided up in unmanipulated styles. 


8.  Moisturizing is extremely important!  And typical grease and hair oil is not the answer!

In this transition period, take the time to educate yourself on the benefits of natural essential oils for moisture.  Olive oil, castor oil, coconut oil, jojoba oil, and almond oil are good oils for moisture with natural curls.  Moisture is key in any hair regimen, and it is even more important in the natural world.  As you will learn, you may find your hair seems more dry-- this could be from product use or because you are transitioning between two textures.  If it is due to product usage, obviously you need to change what you are putting on your hair!


9.  Understand that finding products that work with YOUR hair will be a journey within itself!  Just because it works for one natural gal doesn't mean it will work for YOU!


Sometimes we think that "I saw so and so on YouTube, and her hair looks like mine!  Let me try this product she used too!".  It sounds logical, and seems like it will work.  Then, after you have spent the money on these products, and they didn't do the same on your hair- you are one salty sister!  It will take time-- sometimes you may try a product, and it is a winner or a dud.  The key is not to get discouraged-- just means that product may not be for YOU!  Talk to other transitioners and other naturals to find items to try.  I tend to stick to more natural products with no parabens, no silicones, no mineral oil, no sulfates.  These ingredients tend to dry out natural textured hair!

10.  This is the most important step to ME:  Enjoy learning more about YOUR hair!

Taking on this journey back to natural will have ups and downs, however it should be an incredible journey at every stage!  Enjoy the period of transitioning and/or big chop!  Get the feeling of empowerment, pride, beauty, elegance, confidence, and maturity as you begin your journey.  As you learn YOUR hair, you also learn more about you as a person.  Self-discovery is a beautiful thing and

 should be cherished as you evolve into the natural diva! 

 

Are you transitioning now?  Do you plan to big chop or be a long term transitioner?  For those natural divas, how do you look back on the beginning of your natural journey?  What were your thoughts?

 

~The Sisterlocked Diva

 

 

Giveaway Facebook Exclusive!!! Essie Nails Pack!

Hey there The Sisterlocked Diva Fans!! Facebook exclusive giveaway for tomorrow!! The Essie nail polish pack includes:

* two fashion nail files
* a set of toe seperators to paint pretty toes
* three Essie Nail Colors: Penny Folk (bronze color), turquoise & Caicos, and mademoiselle (pastel pink)


Must be a follower of The Sisterlocked Diva by Midnight Eastern Time December 27th! A random winner will be chosen and announced by noon December 27th. Next giveaway: IG Exclusive giveaway on December 28th!!

Post-Christmas Explosion: Five Giveaways with the Sisterlocked Diva

Post-Christmas Explosion of Giveaways

 

Well ladies, the year 2012 is coming to a close quickly!  This year, there have been some great milestones and celebrations, as well as sadness and loss.  One of my biggest accomplishments in 2012 was beginning the brand and concept of The Sisterlocked Diva!  I have met some great people through blogging and connected people to good information, resources, and inspiration for natural hair and beauty.  We are going to celebrate by doing some giveaways!!  Yay!  So here's the lowdown on how you can get in on the FREE stuff:

• Connect with The Sisterlocked Diva everywhere because there will be exclusive giveaways on certain social media sites.  Here's where I am--
• Instagram: sisterlocked_diva12
• Twitter: @TheSLDiva
• Blog: TheSisterlockedDiva.blogspot.com
• Facebook:  The Sisterlocked Diva
• Pintrest:  The SL Diva
• As long as you are a subscriber/follower by the day the contest is announced, you are automatically entered into the giveaway.  A winner will be chosen at random to win the prize!  There are 5 opportunities to win-- one winner a day!  I am a Zeta lady, so let's give it up for "5 for the founders"!!!  Good Luck!!

 

So what is being given away?? I have hair and beauty (skin care/makeup/nails) giveaways that will be announced at the top of the day!  The giveaways will begin on December 27th and go through NYE!!!

 

~The Sisterlocked Diva

 
 

 

 

 

 

Check Your Hair Routine: Winter Hair Tips

Check Your Hair Routine: Winter Hair Tips

By: Lauren Francis-Jackson

 

 

Depending on where you live, you may be experiencing some challenges with keeping warm in the colder temperatures.  If you are like me, you are not be a fan of cold weather AT ALL!  I am the chick with fuzzy socks galore, hot tea in abundance, and several pair of snow boots (don't judge me

:-)!  Guess what natural hair does not like it anymore than you do!  Certain weather conditions such as blustery winds really does dry out natural hair.  This makes retaining moisture even more of a challenge!

 

These changes in the atmosphere's temperature cause us to make some changes with the products that we are using as well as our wash routine.  Let's start with the wash routine for the loose natural.  Before I get to the step of washing my hair in the shower, I am going to begin my routine with a pre-poo.  I ALWAYS pre-pooed in the winter for every wash day because it allowed by 4b/c hair to retain moisture for longer.  Choose your favorite oil such as olive oil as a pre-poo or create your own oil concoction.  I pre-pooed for at least 45 minutes before I washed my hair.  I am going to wash my hair less frequently because I am stripping  my hair of those natural oils  by keeping with the same frequency of washing.  If you are not already, I would switch to doing more co-washing (washing one's hair with conditioner) when you do wash your hair.  My leave-in conditioners are going to be water-based moisturizing conditioners.  I used to use Kinky-Curly's Knot Today, Curl's Coconut Curlada conditioner, or Cantu's Leave-In Conditioning Repair Cream.  All of these conditioners are creamy in texture and a little heavier.  Since I love the LOC method, I made sure that I sealed in using oils and butters.  In additional to natural oils, I love the African Pride Hot Six Oil!  This was magic on my hair for retaining moisture!  Lastly, I would seal with a creamy butter like shea butter.

 

For my loc'd divas, your action will depend on where you are in your locking process.  In general, you want to moisturize with your natural oils and protect your hair from the cold by using protective head gear like head wraps/scarves, and satin-lined hats.  For moisture, you can also use a oil mixture in a spray bottle or apply it directly to the scalp.  It is also important not to overwash your hair as well!  For those with sisterlocks, what you will do would depend where you are in your locking process as well!  As a newbie, spritzing my hair with water only is my moisture treatment.  At my salon, they preach, "no to oils!" religiously to everybody.  I have heard a few sisterlock wearers talk about using a light oil to keep moisture in their locks.  For sisterlock products, there is the moisture treatment, which is sold on the Sisterlocks websites. 

 

In your home, you can also help bring moisture into the air by reducing the amount of furnace ehat you are using if possible.  Furnace heat will also dry out your hair.  I am the newest fan of humidifiers!!  I love my humidifier for my allergies and sinus issues, however the moisture they add in the air is also good for my hair.  You can get these for $25-60 at most stores like CVS, Walgreens, Walmart, Target, etc.  Even a kid-sized humidifier is adequate for moisturizing the air in your home or office.  Also, good sleeping habits such as sleeping with a satin scarf and /or satin pillowcases will make your hair smile! 

 

 

How do you change your wash and moisturizing routine for winter?  What types of chnages in clothing and environmental changes do you make in the winter?

 

~The Sisterlocked Diva

 

 

 

For Colored Divas:  My Affair With Color

By:  Lauren Francis-Jackson

 

It's funny to me how I have developed this love of hair color since being natural!  I used to be hesitant with hair color with a relaxer.  I would try highlights, but that's it!  Since being natural, I have loved to experiment with color to change my look.  I have learned new information along the way and would have made different choices with my coloring options.  But that's why it is a natural hair JOURNEY :-)  The biggest thing with coloring is correct application, whether done by you or a professional.  So back in 2011 when I did my big chop, I was rocking a short cut, with jet black hair.  Then, I asked a stylist about coloring.  I went to a shop with my old stylist from my relaxed days and this was the result-- just barely a  shade above my natural color.  And a frustrated $70 later you can imagine my face- quite unhappy.  

Mahogany Blonde, semi-permanent professional color

As I spoke to another cosmetologist who was well-versed in coloring relaxed and natural hair, he suggested bleaching my hair to be able to raise the color then using hair color to correct it if I was dissatisfied with the color.  I chose to take this on myself and came out with a carrot top orange color.  Yikes!  My mom hated it, and I kinda sort of liked it.  Now, I would never advocate someone to bleach your hair for a lighter color-- I would suggest a semi-permanente color if you don't mind the chemicals.  If you prefer more natural color options, you can use:


Henna
Naturtint
Herbatint
EcoColors


Then, I discovered a semi-permanent hair color that I loved!  One of my sorors recommended Clairol's Textures & Tones, a hair color specifically recommended for African-American woman.
I loved the ruby red color for my hair.   After coloring, my hair was this rich burgundy (pictured below left) that I loved.  The color definitely faded more and more with cream based shampoos and conditioners, using honey with hair products (I am a YT-induced mixologist), and frequent washing.  So my hair got much lighter-- dark blondish color (middle picture below) even!  Now, I love how my sisterlocks have auburn-ish color on the tips :-)  I colored my hair the night before my consultation because I knew that I could not color my hair again until my sisterlocks were "settled".  So change up your look with a little color! 

~The Sisterlocked Diva

Do you color your hair?  What do you use to color your hair? How often do you color?

My Sisterlocks (almost 7 months in :-)

Well, my Sisterlocks journey has been interesting. I first encountered them when I was a prospective member with Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. (now a PROUD member!!). I based my whole journey back to natural knowing that I would do Sisterlocks when ready. My first attempt was in October 2011 after doing the BC six months prior. On the "advice" of my neighbor, I went with a particular consultant. What I got was a set of "locks/twists" that we're not Sisterlocks. Thankfully, I found out early in my journey and removed them using conditioner.

After rocking twists and twist outs for another 6 months, I began my journey again with Natural Clarity, a salon specializing in Sisterlocks and natural hair in Silver Spring, Maryland.

My original consultant was a trainee, and I was her first customer. The owner, Claire Green, assured me she had been trained by her personally. My install was completed over a three day period, and after 36 hours and 21 minutes I was Sisterlocked!!

My journey has been positive and a blessing! I have enjoyed my hair and have seen amazing growth since beginning my journey. I did change consultants in September 2012 because my then consultant could not meet my need to be seen on Saturdays. Charlee is great, and is very knowledgeable about Sisterlocks. My greatest challenge has been dry scalp issues since you cannot oil your scalp as a sisterlock newbie. Anybody who half way knows me, I have hydration issues! I need to remind myself to drink anything, let alone water! One thing that helps me- to bring a water bottle to work and schedule out times to drink water. Below is a collage of pics over the course of my journey so far. Enjoy your natural journey!

~The Sisterlocked Diva

Ashley Stewart's Diva Night

Ashley Stewart's Diva Night: My First Event

By: Lauren Francis-Jackson

 

 

On December 13th, I was invited by Ashley Stewart for Diva's Night!!  This was a promotional event for the store to promote their 1-day sale of 25% off of most items.  I was planning to come out to discuss Winter Beauty Routines with their natural customers as well as promote my Facebook and Twitter pages as well as the blog.  Doing an event when you are under the weather is quite challenging, however I am glad that I pushed through! 

 

The Look

In my beauty preparation, I went with eye shadows in the green and bronze range from Ulta.  I like their four eye shadow compacts-- all of the shades compliment each other nicely!  Then, I used M.A.C.'s Ruby Woo lipstick with cinnamon lipgloss overtop by Cacique (Lane Bryant).  I love red lips for the winter holiday season!  I did go to Wheaton Spa & Nails for my mani and pedi and I have two words: too slow!  Took them 3 hours to do the same service I get in 1.5 hours at my regular place.  However, I will say their work was excellent.  Since it was an Ashley Stewart event, I went with this jumper I recently purchased from them.  This cream jumper with gold polka dots was on sale last night for $40!

 

 

The Experience

I met a few women who came in to shop and we talked about their journey with natural hair!  I got some nice compliments like, "You are wearing that jumper, girl!" that made me smile.  There was a woman who was transitioning and seemed unsure of what to do next.  She had kinky twists in, and had been wearing braided styles since June.  We talked about importance of caring for your hair in the protective style.  When she asked me about the big chop experience, my advice was to do it when you are ready!  Then, I met a lady with traditional locs who had a gorgeous updo, and happens to sell jewlery as well.  We will connect for business and will collaborate in the future!  Even though the traffic flow in the store wasn't busy enough for a chat, I did met some new ladies who are at different stages of their natural journey, met a new business connect, and promoted the blog.  Shout out to Myra Hopkins who came out to support!  One big lesson learned with my first event experience was to plan logistics and what both of us want to see from the event.  Fun times ahead!

 

 

~The Sisterlocked Diva

Black Women & Skin Care: Reveal Your Best Skin

          Black Women & Skin Care:  Reveal Your Best Skin

By: Lauren Francis-Jackson

 

 

My mom always talked about my soft baby skin, and how you want to keep it as long as possible!  Well, one way to keep that going is by good, quality skin care.  With so many skin care systems and products on the market, it can be challenging to know what do I need, what does it do, and why do I need it!  Here is a basic breakdown on skin care basics, for any age group:

 

 

Cleanser

Every woman needs a basic cleanser that is going to remove dirt and makeup, and clean the skin without drying your skin out.  You do not want that sqeakly clean feeling on your face-- that cleanser is way too drying.  Something that is rather gentle, but does the job of cleansing is a better option!  No need to break the bank with cleansers because there are quality

cleansers that are drugstore brand.  Cetaphil, Neutrogena, and Aveeno make good cleansers for cheaper prices.  If you can spend a little more on cleanser, I highly recommend Philosophy's Purity.  This one-step cleanser leaves your skin feeling airy and light.  I also recommend African Black Soap as a cleanser.  I do not like the bar, because bars tend to be drying to the skin.  Beauty.com recommends a creamy cleanser for dry skin, and a clear cleanser for oily skin.

 

 

Some cleansers also include exfoliation, which can be good and bad!  Exfoliation removes dead skin which gives our skin a dull appearance, and has a scruffy, beaded feeling on your face.  Then, exfoliation should reveal brighter, more vibrant skin.   This should be done about once a week.  If you have one of the combination cleanser and exfoliator, use this cleanser with less frequency.  It is better to use an exfoliator as a seperate product. 

 



Exfoliator

We know that sometimes our skin can look dull, so you might need to get an exfoliator in your life pronto!  There are scrub-like products, exfoliator tools/brushes, and skin processes like a facial peel.  A basic scrub really does get the job done!  Mary Kay makes an excellent microdermabrasion set for $55.  In addition to exfoliation, it also says that it reduces fine lines and wrinkles as well as reduces appearances of pores.a sunscreen  The set includes a two-step product-- step 1 Refine, and step 2 replenish!  Most exfoliators do step 1-- the scrub, or scruffy feeling of beads on your skin.  Not many exfoliators also come with a cream to replenish the moisture that you are scrubing away.  Other than Mary Kay, I also like Neutrogena's Deep Clean (cleanser/exfoliator), Philosophy's The Microdelivery Exfoliating Wash, The Body Shop Aloe Gentle Exfoliator, and St. Ives Scrub-Free Exfoliating Pads. 

 

In the winter, you also need a mask-- which can also double as an exfoliator.  This is the case sometimes and not always.  The benefit of facial masks are smoother, brighter skin when done twice to three times a week.  For DIY divas, you can make your own facial mask to include more natural ingredients such as bananas,olive oil, oatmeal, and eggs. 

 

 

Sunscreen & Moisturizer

If you can find a moisturizer that has at least SPF 15 in it, that is an ideal moisturizer!  You've killed two birds with one stone!  Sometimes, you may have to find two seperate products.  You always want to protect your skin from the sun and outside environmental debris we come into contact with as soon as you exit the door!  A good moisturizer can also depend on skin type.  Some moisturisers I like are:

Olay Complete All Day Moisturizer, EVOO, Almond Oil, and Mary Kay's Time Wise Age-Fighting Moisturizer. 

 

 

Do you do all of these steps in your skin care routine?  Do you use sunscreen daily to protect your skin?

 

~The Sisterlocked Diva



Building Relationships and Impact on Business

On Thursday, I had my first Mary Kay show opportunity!! I inquired about a holiday bazaar after seeing the sign on the door of a preschool that I work with as a part of my job as a speech pathologist. After inquiring with the preschool director, she put me in contact with the organizer of the bazaar! Then, I was given an "in" for the event! The reason this came together within two weeks of the event: I asked for more information and I have developed a relationship with the director. Relationship building is a big part of Mary Kay, my job as a speech pathologist and as a blogger. Because of commitment to relationships, I am able to grow in business because people can relate to me through shared experiences, sharing information, and providing support to others.

When I look at how I am developing myself as The Sisterlocked Diva, I must begin by developing relationships with all of my followers and connect by proving my knowledge base as I share information, product information, beauty products, and fashion. So first things first-- before a blogger, speech pathologist, professor, and a Makeup consultant-- I care about people first!

Taliah Waajid Product Review:  Curly Cream, and African Healing Oil

By:  Lauren Francis-Jackson

 

 

 

In my time as a naturalista, I have tried many products especially in the beginning!  I was using trial and error to see which products worked best for my hair.  Prior to locking, I had 4b/c hair that was tightly coiled in a TWA.  Taliah Waajid was one of the products I tried in the beginning as I was searching how to keep my hair moisturized! 

 

Taliah Waajid is a natural hair specialist who has over 20 years experience as a natural stylist and cosmetologist.  She is best known as the owner of the Taliah Waajid Natural Hair Care Center in Atlanta, Georgia, and creator of the World Natural Hair, Health, & Beauty Show.  The World Natural Hair, Health, and Beauty Show is held annually in Atlanta, Georgia in October.  Next year, that will be the 13th year that it is being held. 

 

 

Taliah Waajid products are typically sold at CVS, Walgreens, Target, Whole Foods, Walmart, and beauty supply stores.  I first saw Taliah Waajid products in CVS, and have seen them at all the above mentioned stores.  The Taliah Waajid line includes products ranging in cost from $7 to $20 for regular sized items and $20+ to 55 for larger sizes greater than 32 ounces.  The products I brought-- the Curly Curl Cream and the African Healing Oil-- were less than $20 together. 

 

 

The Curly Curl cream is a curl definer that it meant to be put on the hair after washing the hair.  The purpose of the product is to help define your curls for a Wash-N-Go look.  The cream smelled pleasant and went onto my hair smoothly.  I applied it to damp hair that I had co-washed that day.  After drying, my hair felt stiffy and extra dry with this cream.  I immediately washed it out the next day because I felt it was super drying to my hair. 

 

The Afrian Healing Oil (Oyl) is a multi-use product that can be used on the hair and body.  Taliah Waajid suggests to use it as a hot oil treatment.  This is achieved by saturating the hair with the oil after shampooing and letting it sit for 15 minutes before rinsing.  The ingredients are natural oils like olive oil, almond oil, and sunflower oil, that combine for mositurizing power.  I actually used it as a pre-poo and the result was amazingly soft hair!  I also have used it with a cream based butter/lotion for the body, which worked well for me too!  I liked this much better than the Curly Curl cream.

 

 

My next product to try is Taliah Waajid Crinkles and Curls as a setting agent for curls on my sisterlocks.  I see the consultants at Natural Clarity LLC using this product as well as water to achieve curly looks with sisterlocks. 

 

 

 

Have you tried Taliah Waajid's products?  What was your experience?  Let's discuss!

 

 

~The Sisterlocked Diva





 

 

My Fav Five from Nappy Oke

By:  Lauren Francis-Jackson

The Sisterlocked Diva

 

 

Nappy Oke is an annual event in the DC area where karaoke meets natural hair!  You have many natural hair vendors, jewlery vendors, natural hair salons, natural beauty products, as well as a natural hair fashion show all coming together for a great event!!  Just to spotlight a few businesses and vendors that I loved!

 

 

Ivie Rose Boutique

Sometimes, it can be a challenge to find fashionable plus size fashion in the DC area, outside of stores such as Ashley Stewart, Lane Bryant, and the Avenue.  However, Ivie Rose promises to deliver on edgy, fun fashion for the plus sized diva like myself!  The picture to the right is me at the grand opening of their physical store, which is located in Laurel, MD.  The dress I am wearing is a cap sleeve dress with a belt I had in my closet.  The dress is an Ivie Rose Boutique dress called Monroe.  Since it was so cold, I paired it with black leggings from Lane Bryant and hot pink peep toe wedges by Bandolino!  At Ivie Rose Boutique, they carry t-shirts, dresses, leggings, shirts, and skirts for the curvy diva!  After talking to one of the owners, who are sisters, she shared that they began the company in Atlanta, Georgia, and moved the business back to DC when she returned to the area.  These ladies are fun-loving and it shows through their fashion that they carry.  If you want to add some unique pieces to your wardrobe, please visit their store at 389 Main St., Laurel, Maryland inside of Finders Keepers.  Theie shop is open Fridays and Saturdays 10am to 7pm.  They are open by appointment Tuesday through Thursday.  They are on Facebook (Ivie Rose Boutique), Instagram (ivieroseboutique), and Twitter (@IvieRose).

 

 

Na-Klectic Natural Hair

 

This is a natural hair salon in the Baltimore area that offers an array of services such as loc maintenance, loc styling, big chop, loose natural hair styling (e.g., two strands, twist outs, coils), and transition styles. For California divas, they opened up a second salon in Los Angeles, California. According to their website, the owner Natasha opened the salon in March 2004.  She has been a natural hair stylist and loctician for 11 years.  There are currently 5 stylists including the owner in the shop.  One of our page members, Carmen Tucker Richardson, has raved about the salon when she has gone to the shop in Baltimore to get her hair done.  When I met a few of the stylists at the Nappy Oke event, they shared that they have a sisterlock consultant on board.  Perhaps, I may stope through for a style if I am in the Baltimore area!  Find them on Facebook (Na-Klectic Natural Hair)

 

 

Barbara, Natural Hair Stylist/Jewlery Designer

 

At her booth, she had bowties for women, eclectic earrings and purses, and denim necklaces such as the one I have on below!  The denim necklaces are made from old denim patches, gathered in the form of a flower!  Mine is a triple flower necklace, purchased for just $10!

 

 

 

 

 

 Sassy Pleasurable Pieces

 

 

Jacqueline Tycise McDuffie had some chunky jewlery pieces that can set off any outfit!  She specializes in costume jewlery and boots/shoes.  I chose the chunky pearl set as a way to glam up any look as I represent my sorority of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.!  I wore it and many chapter sorors wanted it!  There is a chunky silver neklace and earring set that I am currently eyeing. She is on Facebook as Sassy Pleasurable Pieces.  She accepts Visa, Mastercard, and Paypal. 

 

 

Pretty Little Wire

 

This sweet young naturalista, Allison Frith, began making her own jewlery when she got frustrated with the selection of jewlery once she went natural and was looking for pieces to spice up her look!  She makes a lot of pieces and always has new selection on her website!  I love the pic earring look and was excited when Allison had them in silver.  Here they are!  She is on Instagram as 'prettylittlewire', and on Facebook as Pretty Little Wire.  Love her work!

 

 

~The Sisterlocked Diva

 

Fashion, Beauty, & Lifestyle Expo 2012

 

By:  Lauren Francis-Jackson

 

 

On October 20th, I attended the 4th Annual Fashion, Beauty, & Lifestyle Expo 2012 (FBL 2012).  This event was exciting:  vendors representing all kinds of fashion from couture to everyday fashion, jewlery, bath/body products, hair stylists, hair products, nail products, and fun accessories!  There were fashion shows on the hour by different vendors present at the event.  I got a few goodies at the event that I want to share with you!! 

 

 

Red Hue Boutique

The Red Hue Boutique is located in Rockville, MD in the heart of the downtown area.  The boutique specializes in "contemporary women's clothing with a retro feel"!  At their booth, I loved their funky accessories-- they had lots of rings and earrings that can add some "pop" to anyone's style!  I purchased the ring in the headliner picture for this post. 

It is a larger white stone with antique-flair with the distressed brass-colored band.  Loved the funky style!  Also, the earrings I selected were torquoise square earrings with rhinstones for a little bling.  They have a Facebook page (Red Hue Boutique) and a Twitter page (@redhueboutique)highlighting their latest clothing and accessories. 

 

Kimycat Kolors

These ladies are bringing a new spin to nail color!  After speaking with Cheryl Mearis (owner) at the event, she explained that they work with a manufacturer.  They have the vision behind different colors, and the manufacturers create the fun, bold colors they carry.  There was a wide range from matte colors to sparkling color for the nail!  I got two polish colors-- a matte blue and a glittery multi-colored polish! 

 

 

 

Nobody Does It Like TEP Photography

Using green screen photography, this is a different spin on photgraphy.  The photo subject is shot on a green background, then computer software eliminates the green background and allows you to add any background in front of or behind the photo subject.  Not to mention, the precision of photo is excellent with the use of a mobile printer. This brings mobile photography to a whole new level!  Check out my shot!

 

So, check out the rest of the pictures on Facebook under the FBL 2012 album for more pictures!!  Visit The Sisterlocked Diva on Facebook at www.facebook.com/The.Sisterlocked.Diva!  "Like" the page to continue to receive more updates!! Interested in attending the event?  It is typically in October in the latter part of the month :-)

 

~The Sisterlocked Diva

 

 

 





Where in the world is The Sisterlocked Diva: Weekend Events

By:  Lauren Francis-Jackson

Well the weekend is here- yipee!  With a day off, I got a lot done today including planning where I will be.  So here's the lowdown:

• Saturday, getting my hair retightened at Natural Clarity in the morning with my fabulous sisterlock consultant, Charlee
• Afterwards, heading out to the Fashion, Beauty & Lifestyle event sponsored by DC50tv!
• Then, Friends get together to celebrate a birthday
• Sunday will be church and my First Mary Kay appointment :-D

First, the Fashion, Beauty, & Lifestyle Expo sounds exciting!!  The Washington Convention Center is turning into a fashion and beauty mecca for several hours tomorrow from 2 to 8pm!  Hosted by Miss J (from America's Next Top Model), this event will have a variety of beauty and fashion vendors, hourly fashion shows, free makeovers, celebrity photo shoots, and more!  There will be amazing discounts and coupons offered to attendees!  For $15 tickets purchased online, it sounds like the place to be for all beauty enthusiasts! 

As I was purusing the vendor list, I saw that one of my new favorite consignment shops will be there:
Diva's Couture! This place is a high-end consignment shop specializingin women's fashion, jewlery, and accessories. I stopped in there with friends after going to the Healthy Hair Affair in Washington, DC last month.    I scored these Bandolino hot pink wedges for *drum roll* $12!  Yep that's all! 
Excited for more finds tomorrow!  Stay tuned!

Recently, I became an Independent Beauty Consultant with Mary Kay Cosmetics, Inc. and have begun loving the world of entrepreneurship!  I believe that every women needs to feel beautiful-- inside and out.  Sometimes, this can be more of a challenge at different times in our lives.  Even if I can help one woman see the beautiful, gorgeous, and confident woman whom they are, I feel I have done my job each day!  This week, I hope that I can do that for three phenomenal women I am blessed to call my sorors!  In my quest for helping others, I have learned more about my beauty regimen and made changes accordingly.  My latest tip:  Just because you used XYZ product in your 20s, does not mean that it will still work for you in your 30s and 40s.  As a thirty-something, I have seen changes in my skin's texture and type.  I use different products now, than I used at age 21.  Skin care changes as we grow and mature.  Major life events such as having children and increased stress can cause changes in our skin.  Take care of your skin, or as my Mom always said, "Always use product!"

~ The Sisterlocked Diva

Healthy Hair, Healthy Body

By:  Lauren Francis-Jackson

We all want healthy hair so that our hair can grow, be strong, and look fabulous!  You can have the best products, read and build your natural hair knowledge, and stay away from harmful ingredients, however all of your good efforts can still end up causing breakage and a lack of growth.  Why?  Because you need to be fulling our bodies with healthy foods to get the healthy hair you desire!  As the phrase Mom always use to say, you are what you eat!  You eat unhealthy, your tresses will pay for it.  You chose more healthy options, your hair will thank you for it!  Something that has been happening to me is that since getting sisterlocks-- I have had flakes because of poor water intake.  My hair definitely was letting me know that I am lacking the proper nutrients to promote healthy hair. 

So what to do about eating better, and what should you be eating?  Great question!  Well lets talk about some basics and then delve into some deeper knowledge. 

Water:  Yes ladies we need to be drinking water to support our hair and skin health!  Many vitamins, lotions, creams, etc. on the market are not a replacement of drinking water.  For me, this can be a challenge!  I am always "in motion" and often was getting dehydrated because I was not taking time to drink enough water.  One thing I have started doing is planning out when I will drink water.  For example, before breakfast, before packing my lunch, as I am driving to work, and as I walk the dogs are all targeted times during the day that I am reminding myself to drink water.  So how much water should we be drinking?  According to the Mayo Clinic, it depends on a variety of factors including level of physical activity, type of climate we live in, whether we are sick or not, and current body weight. They recommeded consuming about 2.7 liters for an average woman. The website eHow.com also stated that we need to drink an additional cup of water if we are consuming sodas and other caffienated beverages.  The message is clear: Drink up ladies (water that is)!

Vitamins: 

Vitamins should be a part of your overall body health plan, however there are targeted vitamins that support hair growth. According to eHow.com, there are some specific recommendations.  B Vitamins are great for heair growth, and can be taken in a supplement form.  Keep in mind we can also get B Vitamins in eggs, beans, and berries.  Also, Biotin is a popular vitamin known to support nail and hair growth.  Consuming brown rice, oats, and sunflower seeds is a way to ingest Biotin.  This can also be purchased in supplement form in places like The Vitamin Store, and GNC.  Vitamin A, C, and E are also helpful for hair growth.  Vitamin C is responsible for increased blood flow in the scalp and follicles, which can speed up the hair growth process.  Vitamin C is poperful found in fruits. 

Healthy foods that promote hair growth:

According to webMD.com, the top 10 foods that support hair growth are:

-Salmon

-Dark Green Vegetables

-Beans

-Nuts

-Poultry

-Eggs

-Whole Grains

-Oysters

-Low-Fat Dairy Products

-Carrots

Brittle hair, breakage, amd minimal hair growth plaging you??  It may all start with what you are eating  (or not eating)!  Are you eating what you should for healthy hair growth?? 

~The Sisterlocked Diva

Who is The Sisterlocked Diva??

Hello All,

Welcome!  I am an educator, professor, a Christian, friend, daughter, girlfriend, member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.-Tau Delta Zeta Chapter, avid reader, and thinker.  I am also a new natural hair blogger, beauty and fashion enthusiast!  Let me tell you about my journey to natural hair. So, November 22, 2010 I am sitting in the hair salon getting another relaxer because another 6 weeks have past.  I have been hearing a lot of buzz about the movie "Good Hair" by Chris Rock.  I didn't see the movie, but it made me think "What really is in a relaxer?".  I heard about the clip where the relaxer dissolved a soda can, and needless to say I was concerned about what I was doing to me and my hair.  As I am using Google to research this, my stylist is putting the relaxer on my hair.  Then, it hits me- just one simple phrase.  It said, "The most active ingredient is the same main ingredient in drain cleaner".  What?!?! Oh wow!  I was determined that day was the day I ended my relationship with "creamy crack".  I had no idea what to do next, so thanks to Google again I found websites, Facebook pages, and any other information I could get my hands on about how to move towards natural textured hair!  As I ran into girlfriends, they too were having a similar experience.  They knew they wanted no more of the creamy crack, and were ready for the transition.

I wanted to big chop after transitioning for a few months.  I felt that because my hair was already short in its relaxed state it would be easy to rock short natural hair!  So, I began to transition using braided styles and sew-in weaves.  I figured having my hair braided mostly would allow my relaxer to grow out and lessen the manipulation of my transitioning hair. The original game plan was to have a big chop party with an old high school friend I have recently reconnected with.  Needless to say, the battle with the two textures was a losing battle-- those stringy relaxed strands just hanging on for dear life.   In the early AM hours after taking out African twists on April 14. 2011,  a naturalista was born!  I was so excited and thought my new 'do was Fierce, Fabulous, and Fun!