2025/2026 - Journey to SL/APL/BSL Challenge

[B_Phlyy]

Took my mini braids out a few days ago. I didn't wash because I'm a little under now. So the stretched hair is in a bun closed with a puff cuff. Hopefully I feel better tomorrow and can wash and blow dry.

 

[faithVA]

I wanted to wash my hair tonight but man does it feel cold. brrrr. I think I will just spritz it and add some more gel and twist it back up.

 

[Bette Davis Eyes]

I took down my latest 4 week protective style last night. Wash day was the standard. Henna , shampoo , condition and deep treatment followed by my leave in and then blow out with my revair.

I have been slipping on steaming the henna in which I did this time. The color transfer is very vibrant compared to when I just keep it on for 20-30 minutes.

I was using oil daily for the last 4 weeks so I did one wash clarifying. Getting my hair braided back up later on this afternoon.

 

[faithVA]

I took down my latest 4 week protective style last night. Wash day was the standard. Henna , shampoo , condition and deep treatment followed by my leave in and then blow out with my revair.

I have been slipping on steaming the henna in which I did this time. The color transfer is very vibrant compared to when I just keep it on for 20-30 minutes.

I was using oil daily for the last 4 weeks so I did one wash clarifying. Getting my hair braided back up later on this afternoon.

Those knots are looking super juicy

 

[faithVA]

Many years ago I bought a length check shirt. It wasn't that good because I think the first line started at APL which is crazy

This morning I drew additional lines up to the shoulders so I can startcusing it for my progress pics.

I plan to at least blow dry for June. That will get me a good starting picture.

 

[faithVA]

I installed 2 strands the first time in a couple of months.

I tried a different combo this time. Instead of leave in I sprayed my hair with Camille Rose hair and braid spray and then used the KCCC to twist. Will see how this works.

My twists are definitely longer but I think until I make them bigger I won't see my length. I think now I'm doing 8 to 10 twists per row. When I can pull my twist up I will try a set with maybe 6 twists per row to see how that looks.

 

[25InchesStarting'25]

Happy Monday and New Month everyone!

Two more months until Length Checks in August

Happy Growing

 

[Rocky91]

I was going through old pics and I found some pics that illustrate why APL has been so elusive. The first one was when I was heavy into wash and goes back in 2021 and I wanted to check whether or not they would derail my progress. Then I got highlights in early 2022 and had it cut back to SL, just for kicks. Then I found a photo from later in 2022 where I cut it into a chin length bob on blowdried hair.

Now why did I do this? The hair was pretty healthy, about as healthy as it can be with high lift color, anyways. I think I was desiring like a really blunt look on my curly styles, as demonstrated by this twistout.

To make a long story short, I’ve had this pattern of cutting off my hair as soon as I begin to approach APL. I’m going to really resist that pattern this time around and commit to this long term goal. I AM the problem standing in my own way lol. Sorry for the long post, but I had to just chronicle this (extremely obvious lol) epiphany somewhere.

 

[ItsMeLilLucky]

@Rocky91 I used to do the same thing when I got to shoulder length. I had to ask God that if He wanted me to keep the hairs on my head He was gonna have to help cause He knows what I like to do (pretend this is a scissors emoji). So that's how I started doing the mini braids lol

 

[faithVA]

I fell off Accelarated Growth regimen
Things worked out where I did an LC today to see what growth I can gain after getting back on the regimen consistently

Here is where I am from 4.6.25 until today, not much growth, but it did grow

View attachment 504710View attachment 504712

It is good to have pictures to track. Even though that section doesn't show super growth it doesn't mean that another section didn't show out.

 

[faithVA]

Not much happening here. Just a regular session: rinse, detangle, 1 shampoo, conditioner, detangle. Applied leavein, water, gel and put it up into 5 flat twists.

I need to make a water, glycerin spray to keep my scalp moisturized during the week.

 

[25InchesStarting'25]

It is good to have pictures to track. Even though that section doesn't show super growth it doesn't mean that another section didn't show out.

I agree, the 75 Day challenge where I was taking weekly photos helped stay on track with regimen

I stopped when schedule got busier and fell off regimen

Glad I'm taking a new starting photo for restarting consistency with regimen

Developed a new routine that should keep me on track with HCJ

 

[Rocky91]

I’m scheduled for a press and trim next weekend that I don’t really feel like keeping (I’m literally running a 5K the next day lol), but I’m gonna go anyways because I need to stick to my trim schedule. I’m very curious about how my hair looks since my April appointment.

 

[ItsMeLilLucky]

I’m scheduled for a press and trim next weekend that I don’t really feel like keeping (I’m literally running a 5K the next day lol), but I’m gonna go anyways because I need to stick to my trim schedule. I’m very curious about how my hair looks since my April appointment.

That is mighty brave of you

 

[Rocky91]

Alrighty got my hair done. I’ll start with the troubleshooting: Both my stylist and I noticed a lot more breakage and split ends than my last visit, and she asked about whether I’d been using any protein. I immediately noted two changes to my routine that could explain this. I’ve done less rollersetting in favor of buns and other styles. I’ve also been a product junkie using my MoKnowsHair elasticity treatment less faithfully in favor of other products that are mostly moisture.

So I will need to reorder that elasticity treatment and use it more faithfully. I will also need to make peace with the workout-induced frizz and keep doing my flexirod sets because it seems to be a styling method that keeps split ends at bay. Also, she mentioned that my brief foray (like 2 weeks) into twists with added synthetic hair probably created more split ends. So those styles aren’t a good idea for me. Lord, the tribulations of having fine hair that has gotten even finer with age lol.

Despite all this, I’ve retained a reasonable amount of hair since April. First pic I’ll add is April, second one is today. My April hair definitely looks more full to me! Hopefully with the adjustments, I can get right back to it.

 

[Rocky91]

Now I’m taking a second look and wondering whether my shirt is not pulled down in the same precise way in both pics—is that making my hair look closer to the first line in my recent pic or have I really retained that length? Omg this comparison pic game can really challenge me

Edited to add another pic with flash that I think has my shirt pulled down in the right way. The flash does not do my hair favors and I think I can really see that my ends aren’t as nice, despite the length retained.

I’m a little bummed out by this. Feels like my hair is determined to start acting a fool despite my best efforts. But there’s nothing to really do except keep pushing, so that’s what I’ll do.

 

[Bette Davis Eyes]

Don’t second guess. Just add back in the treatment and flex sets. You’re on a good path. Your ends can be trimmed later down the road. Baby them now. You’re looking good.

@Rocky91

 

[Rocky91]

Don’t second guess. Just add back in the treatment and flex sets. You’re on a good path. Your ends can be trimmed later down the road. Baby them now. You’re looking good.

@Rocky91

Thank you for that encouragement @Bette Davis Eyes!! I really appreciate it, and I think you’re right about sticking to that game plan.

I’m actually already thinking about a blunt cut at APL once I get past it, so I think I’ll keep up with the smaller trims for now. My stylist is pretty conservative and I appreciate it—even today, as she was noting my split ends, she still didn’t take off unnecessary length.

 

[25InchesStarting'25]

Now I’m taking a second look and wondering whether my shirt is not pulled down in the same precise way in both pics—is that making my hair look closer to the first line in my recent pic or have I really retained that length? Omg this comparison pic game can really challenge me

Edited to add another pic with flash that I think has my shirt pulled down in the right way. The flash does not do my hair favors and I think I can really see that my ends aren’t as nice, despite the length retained. View attachment 504932

I’m a little bummed out by this. Feels like my hair is determined to start acting a fool despite my best efforts. But there’s nothing to really do except keep pushing, so that’s what I’ll do.

Congrats on your growth!
Don't let the "ends snobs" steal your joy!
We have setbacks now and then, and that's okay as long as we adjust to make improvements
It's awesome you know exactly what to get you back on track!

So many people don't make it to their goal length in a reasonable time or never because they are worried what people will think about them not having full ends and chop off all their progress!

I think its best to keep your ends to your goal length so you can see your length retention as motivation, then start trimming once your hair is past your goal

I know you didn't say you want to cut your ends, didn't want you to get any ideas, your hair looks great! Keep up the good progress

 

[faithVA]

Alrighty got my hair done. I’ll start with the troubleshooting: Both my stylist and I noticed a lot more breakage and split ends than my last visit, and she asked about whether I’d been using any protein. I immediately noted two changes to my routine that could explain this. I’ve done less rollersetting in favor of buns and other styles. I’ve also been a product junkie using my MoKnowsHair elasticity treatment less faithfully in favor of other products that are mostly moisture.

So I will need to reorder that elasticity treatment and use it more faithfully. I will also need to make peace with the workout-induced frizz and keep doing my flexirod sets because it seems to be a styling method that keeps split ends at bay. Also, she mentioned that my brief foray (like 2 weeks) into twists with added synthetic hair probably created more split ends. So those styles aren’t a good idea for me. Lord, the tribulations of having fine hair that has gotten even finer with age lol.

Despite all this, I’ve retained a reasonable amount of hair since April. First pic I’ll add is April, second one is today. My April hair definitely looks more full to me! Hopefully with the adjustments, I can get right back to it.
View attachment 504930



View attachment 504928

It sounds like not only good progress was made but some great insights were gathered.

I was thinking about using synthetic hair for twist but hearing about your experience I think I will leave it alone and just wait until my hair is longer to do regular twists. Thanks for that update.

From April to June, your progress is definitely noticeable. I really think you are going to have a great year

 

[faithVA]

Now I’m taking a second look and wondering whether my shirt is not pulled down in the same precise way in both pics—is that making my hair look closer to the first line in my recent pic or have I really retained that length? Omg this comparison pic game can really challenge me

Edited to add another pic with flash that I think has my shirt pulled down in the right way. The flash does not do my hair favors and I think I can really see that my ends aren’t as nice, despite the length retained. View attachment 504932

I’m a little bummed out by this. Feels like my hair is determined to start acting a fool despite my best efforts. But there’s nothing to really do except keep pushing, so that’s what I’ll do.

Yeah don't be bummed out by anything. Whether it is the first picture or the second, there is clearly observable progress and so you are moving towards your goal.

As far as your ends, I think they look good. Maybe they are going in different directions just because of how your hair was put up. But I didn't see any damage.

As Chicoro says, show grace to yourself. You are doing great. Make the adjustments you are aware of and keep moving forward.

 

[25InchesStarting'25]

It sounds like not only good progress was made but some great insights were gathered.

I was thinking about using synthetic hair for twist but hearing about your experience I think I will leave it alone and just wait until my hair is longer to do regular twists. Thanks for that update.

From April to June, your progress is definitely noticeable. I really think you are going to have a great year

They have human hair options if you're concerned with synthetic

I believe it's what is done when the hair is braided/twisted and how hair is maintained while in braids/twists

Braided my hair with no product at the roots
I braid my own hair and it's not tight at all (if you have to go to someone else see their reviews)

I took out braids at my nape and hair was really soft
I Hydrate my hair often with water rinses and aloe spray
Use ACV mix to keep scalp cleansed and had no dandruff or build up

I like longer braids/twists to keep hair off shoulders, keeps ends protected

Briads/Twists really help get over the NL - SL hump. Seen so many people show that they achieved greater lengths with braids/twists

Even when my hair is longer ill use extentions as added protection for my ends

Hope these tips help if your ever decide to try extentions

 

[faithVA]

They have human hair options if you're concerned with synthetic

I believe it's what is done when the hair is braided/twisted and how hair is maintained while in braids/twists

Braided my hair with no product at the roots
I braid my own hair and it's not tight at all (if you have to go to someone else see their reviews)

I took out braids at my nape and hair was really soft
I Hydrate my hair often with water rinses and aloe spray
Use ACV mix to keep scalp cleansed and had no dandruff or build up

I like longer braids/twists to keep hair off shoulders, keeps ends protected

Briads/Twists really help get over the NL - SL hump. Seen so many people show that they achieved greater lengths with braids/twists

Even when my hair is longer ill use extentions as added protection for my ends

Hope these tips help if your ever decide to try extentions

It is probably better to err on the side of caution. When she said fine hair that reminded me of how little it takes to cut through my strands. Its best for me to just leave it alone. My hair is fine and gray, super coily and color treated. It doesn't take much to make her unhappy. I need to just stay in my lane.

 

[Rocky91]

Congrats on your growth!
Don't let the "ends snobs" steal your joy!
We have setbacks now and then, and that's okay as long as we adjust to make improvements
It's awesome you know exactly what to get you back on track!

So many people don't make it to their goal length in a reasonable time or never because they are worried what people will think about them not having full ends and chop off all their progress!

I think its best to keep your ends to your goal length so you can see your length retention as motivation, then start trimming once your hair is past your goal

I know you didn't say you want to cut your ends, didn't want you to get any ideas, your hair looks great! Keep up the good progress

Thank you for the words of encouragement @25InchesStarting'25! I agree with you that seeing the length retained is motivating, so yes, I don't plan on doing any kind of dramatic chops anytime soon.

 

[Rocky91]

It sounds like not only good progress was made but some great insights were gathered.

I was thinking about using synthetic hair for twist but hearing about your experience I think I will leave it alone and just wait until my hair is longer to do regular twists. Thanks for that update.

From April to June, your progress is definitely noticeable. I really think you are going to have a great year

Thank you @faithVA! Yes, I really appreciate how willing she is to listen to me yap about my hair woes and troubleshoot with me I'm saying it in a lighthearted way, but I've definitely had my fair share of stylists who weren't trying to talk through things with me at all.

 

[faithVA]

Thank you @faithVA! Yes, I really appreciate how willing she is to listen to me yap about my hair woes and troubleshoot with me I'm saying it in a lighthearted way, but I've definitely had my fair share of stylists who weren't trying to talk through things with me at all.

I know so many of us can relate to the experience with these so called stylists. I am glad you found a good one.

 

[25InchesStarting'25]

Yesterday I made some flaxseed gel

When I was doing the 75 day challenge I used it almost daily

I want to do another LC at the nape to see if there is a difference adding the Flax Gel. Will make the next batch with Rose Mary, why I didn't do LC this week. I plan to do it next week

 

[Rocky91]

Long post incoming. Welp, a disappointing update: that last silk press ended up giving me irreparable heat damage. Honestly, I knew letting any stylist use titanium irons on my hair was Russian roulette from past experience, but I figured it was infrequent enough. That was incorrect lol and I ended up with bone straight pieces that I couldn’t style around. Twistouts, braidouts, and wash and goes looked crazy even after 3 elasticity treatments, so I went ahead and got a hair cut. Started it myself on wet hair to see the damage clearly, then got it cleaned up.

Reasoning: My goal priorities are long natural hair that I can style easily, not long hair with bone straight pieces that I can’t really style around. And honestly, I would hate to reach APL with 4 inches of bone straight hair that would drive me crazy. So I’m okay with the decision. I’m basically back to where I was at the start of the year around CBL, 6 months of progress down the drain, but the lesson is learned: nobody else is touching my hair with a flat iron. I’ve never given myself severe heat damage with my at home ceramic irons, so I’m done with playing this game with stylists who really do mean well, but perhaps don’t fully understand that I prioritize having kinky hair way more than a temporary bone straight style.

Game plan moving forward: getting all my trims on blown out hair. Continue avoiding heat even beyond my summer challenge.

 

[keranikki]

Long post incoming. Welp, a disappointing update: that last silk press ended up giving me irreparable heat damage. Honestly, I knew letting any stylist use titanium irons on my hair was Russian roulette from past experience, but I figured it was infrequent enough. That was incorrect lol and I ended up with bone straight pieces that I couldn’t style around. Twistouts, braidouts, and wash and goes looked crazy even after 3 elasticity treatments, so I went ahead and got a hair cut. Started it myself on wet hair to see the damage clearly, then got it cleaned up.

Reasoning: My goal priorities are long natural hair that I can style easily, not long hair with bone straight pieces that I can’t really style around. And honestly, I would hate to reach APL with 4 inches of bone straight hair that would drive me crazy. So I’m okay with the decision. I’m basically back to where I was at the start of the year around CBL, 6 months of progress down the drain, but the lesson is learned: nobody else is touching my hair with a flat iron. I’ve never given myself severe heat damage with my at home ceramic irons, so I’m done with playing this game with stylists who really do mean well, but perhaps don’t fully understand that I prioritize having kinky hair way more than a temporary bone straight style.

Game plan moving forward: getting all my trims on blown out hair. Continue avoiding heat even beyond my summer challenge.

I understand and it’s great that you already have a game plan.

 

[25InchesStarting'25]

Long post incoming. Welp, a disappointing update: that last silk press ended up giving me irreparable heat damage. Honestly, I knew letting any stylist use titanium irons on my hair was Russian roulette from past experience, but I figured it was infrequent enough. That was incorrect lol and I ended up with bone straight pieces that I couldn’t style around. Twistouts, braidouts, and wash and goes looked crazy even after 3 elasticity treatments, so I went ahead and got a hair cut. Started it myself on wet hair to see the damage clearly, then got it cleaned up.

Reasoning: My goal priorities are long natural hair that I can style easily, not long hair with bone straight pieces that I can’t really style around. And honestly, I would hate to reach APL with 4 inches of bone straight hair that would drive me crazy. So I’m okay with the decision. I’m basically back to where I was at the start of the year around CBL, 6 months of progress down the drain, but the lesson is learned: nobody else is touching my hair with a flat iron. I’ve never given myself severe heat damage with my at home ceramic irons, so I’m done with playing this game with stylists who really do mean well, but perhaps don’t fully understand that I prioritize having kinky hair way more than a temporary bone straight style.

Game plan moving forward: getting all my trims on blown out hair. Continue avoiding heat even beyond my summer challenge.

Hugs!, know it can be super disappointing to lose 6 months progress, so glad you're moving forward with optimism and a plan. Now you have thicker ends and have all the data you need to get to your goal with less setbacks