Her hair issue is exactly what I'm going through? Suggestions?

[Smiley79]

Listening to her video, she shares a lot of the same complaints I am having with my hair at this phase. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q3_6mCWaeww&list=UUVw2ntF4SHjXoC_EIMCm7CQ


In the beginning after my BC, I had cute curls:

Now, it's similar to her hair in her video, it's just there and doesnt have much definition when twisted.

Did any of you ever experience that and how did you turn things around?

 

[bhndbrwneyes]

Are you using any type of curl definer? I've recently started using NaturelleGrow's Natural Swirlz Soft Curl Defining Cream and I love it. I also love Hydroquench Systems The Slip Curl Defining Leave-In. Plain moisturizers do just that...moisturize my hair. But I've learned recently I need products that define and moisturize and then I use a LITTLE bit of Kinky Curly Curl Custard to hold the curls.

 

[MzSwift]

I stopped looking for curls early in my HHJ. That helped me to stop stressing over how I wanted my hair to look vs. how it wanted to act. LoL IA that curl defining products may help.

I've found that when I use the right amount of protein, my hair is more coily and less poofy. Also, poof can be a sign that it's time for me to clarify.

 

[Smiley79]

Im gonna look more into the curl defining products. Back then, I was simply using water and Eco Styler gel and the curls would pop. Now, ain't nothing poppin. Maybe I need to do the same thing and just stop looking for them, lol. As for defintion from twist and Bk, I use Shea Moisture defining cream, and nothing so far. Oh well.
And yes I am also working on more protein for my hair. So maybe that will make a difference over time. Thanks girls!

 

[virtuenow]

Yes, protein reconstructor-- AO GPB is the best (weekly) and for a stronger treatment (1-2x/mo) Komaza Protein Strengthener or Nexxus Emergencee. IN summary, it sounds like you need regular protein DC's in your hair diet. One light and one strong.

 

[Smiley79]

Yes, protein reconstructor-- AO GPB is the best (weekly) and for a stronger treatment (1-2x/mo) Komaza Protein Strengthener or Nexxus Emergencee. IN summary, it sounds like you need regular protein DC's in your hair diet. One light and one strong.

Thx and what about aphogee. I used it when I was relaxed.

 

[virtuenow]

Thx and what about aphogee. I used it when I was relaxed.

Aphogee 2-step smells awful & application is so messy. I think they've been around longer than anyone and its time to update their formula and scent. Relaxed people are probably the only ones who need it. It's so strong, I bet it's easy to overdose on the protein. The ones I named are mild to moderate strength. I don't know about Aphogee 2-minute, never used it.

 

[KittyMeowMeow]

Is it possible that maybe your twists aren't completely dry when you take them out, or you have product buildup? Did anything about your reggie change from then to now? I wonder what would happen if you did the same thing you were doing back then?

 

[hnntrr]

I have that same issue. I really have to make sure to shingle my hair really well and even then by the time it dries and shrinks it's not as curly as it was while it was still damp. But I just chalk that up to shrinkage. Some of my curls can get really tight...they have been loosening up lately probably due to me brushing through it too.

I co sign with everyone else though. Try a protein treatments and see if that helps. Also yeah you have to make sure it's completely dry before you take anything out...

I noticed too the more Eco styler or defined I out in my hair the more it weighs it down and stays stretched. I washed my hair last night and didn't put a whole lot on it and it shrank up and became pretty undefined so I really have to go in and like really make sure each strand is coated really well, and sometimes I will diffuse it or dry it a little bit because now that it's longer it has a tendency to frizz out and become undefined if I just let it air dry.

 

[Seamonster]

I wonder if you need more product, or a heavier product. It is easy to put enough product when our hair is super short, but that same amount is too little for longer, older, thirstier hair.

 

[hair4today]

In addition to regular protein treatments, I would also suggest using a Mudwash to deep clean,clarify and detox your strands. I had similar issues at the beginning of my HHJ where my hair was just poufy, no curl definition, then I used the Terressentials Mudwash and it changed my hair instantly. Curls started popping out of nowhere. I no longer use Terressentials cause I've found an alternative mudwash product (MudPuddle) that is just as good and easier to buy where I live but you can also make your own, check out YouTube for mudwash recipes. I would also suggest Obia Curl Enhancing Custard for amazing curl definition, its great for wash n go's and will give you soft, long lasting curls.

 

[Smiley79]

Is it possible that maybe your twists aren't completely dry when you take them out, or you have product buildup? Did anything about your reggie change from then to now? I wonder what would happen if you did the same thing you were doing back then?

Well, when I twist them I usually leave my twist in for 2-3 days before unravelling them, so they are dry. Back when I was super short haired, I did cowash and go practically daily in order to achieve the look that I wanted...that is the one difference I can instantly remember.

 

[Smiley79]

hnntrr I love the curls in your avatar!


hair4today thanks I will look into that as well.

 

[Smiley79]

I wonder if you need more product, or a heavier product. It is easy to put enough product when our hair is super short, but that same amount is too little for longer, older, thirstier hair.

Aside from ecostyler, can you all recommend any great curl defining products.

 

[tatiana]

Was your hair dyed in pic#1?

I have noticed that when type 4s dye their hair, it has more of a curly look. As time goes on, it goes away.

I have a coworker, natural, type 4, she dyes her hair to cover her grays. She likes to go long periods between touch ups. I have noticed her hair only gets "curly" when it is freshly dyed. Even with that as her hair has gotten longer, her hair does not get as curlier as when her hair was shorter regardless if it is freshly dyed or not.

I have heard dyes may loosen one hair pattern.

 

[Smiley79]

Yes it was dyed! I do remember my hair feeling and behaving differently immediately after I dyed it. The curls and soft texture was amazing. Also as I said before, I was cowashing almost everyday back then so I can't pinpoint exactly what may have been helping me. Since I dont plan on dying my hair because im starting Henna and Indigo, I will give frequent cowashing a try again and observe the results.