confused newbie

[LaBelleLL]

When reading the posts that have been specific to my needs, i've ended up a little bit more confused afterwards. Many recommendations seem to be catered to people with relaxed hair OR it has been people with relaxed hair who have commented, etc. While I understand that I need to do what is right for my own hair, i've been reading up to give myself more of a direction. Is it the general idea that the products that naturals use, those with relaxers can use as well and vice versa (with the exception of relaxers, lol)?

Thanks....and I apologize in my advance for my ignorance!!!

more questions to follow in another thread....

 

[Pandora1975]

I think product need is determined entirely by each individual's hair needs. I still use some things I used when I was relaxed. I also have added and removed items as my hair's needs change. Is there something in particular you are trying to address? I'm still pretty new, but the ones who know can help I'm sure.

and

 

[Demi27]

When reading the posts that have been specific to my needs, i've ended up a little bit more confused afterwards. Many recommendations seem to be catered to people with relaxed hair OR it has been people with relaxed hair who have commented, etc. While I understand that I need to do what is right for my own hair, i've been reading up to give myself more of a direction. Is it the general idea that the products that naturals use, those with relaxers can use as well and vice versa (with the exception of relaxers, lol)?

Thanks....and I apologize in my advance for my ignorance!!!

more questions to follow in another thread....

You may just be seeing the more recent posts.
There are numerous posts about natural/relaxed/transitioning hair.
The only thing is, you will have to search back to find them. I know most people don't like doing that (not saying you're one of them), but sometimes you have to actually go back to the very last page and then skim the threads (by titles). That's how I've learned a lot.

There are many natural ladies on the board who have shared their reggies, photos, reviews, etc.

I hope you do find what you're looking for. There is a lot of knowledge here (but I know it can be very overwhelming at times).

 

[LaBelleLL]

Well, I have natural 3c hair. After looking at the boards for a week (and after this lady at the salon said I need protein), I went out and bought ApHogee 2 min reconstructor, Aussi Moist conditioner, some shampoo, some oils. I did a pre-poo including the Aphogee and let that bad boy sit for over night. The next day, I washed my hair, put in some Silicon Mix and it left some heavy film on my hair. I washed that out and then proceeded to twist my hair. I have also been putting the Moe Grow mix to scalp every other day and have been applying Profectiv to my ends. Needless to say, I now know that I went terribly wrong with the pre-poo, the Silicon Mix and the Profectiv; the jury is still out on the Moe Grow. My hair is currently crispy. When I've combed it in these past few days, more hair has come out and when the comb has gotten to my roots, it has felt hard and difficult to pull the comb through. Even when I put my hand to my scalp, the hair feels very coarse. I realize this is a protein overload (right?).

Basically, I'm trying to find a moisterizer that fits well with me; my protein products are fine and will prob do a treatment every month or so. I have the Jane Carter Nourish and Shine, but I don't even know if that's moisterizing my ends.......

 

[msa]

When reading the posts that have been specific to my needs, i've ended up a little bit more confused afterwards. Many recommendations seem to be catered to people with relaxed hair OR it has been people with relaxed hair who have commented, etc. While I understand that I need to do what is right for my own hair, i've been reading up to give myself more of a direction. Is it the general idea that the products that naturals use, those with relaxers can use as well and vice versa (with the exception of relaxers, lol)?

Thanks....and I apologize in my advance for my ignorance!!!

more questions to follow in another thread....

I say the answer to your question is yes, but it's based upon the individual needs.

It's not the products that are important, it's really the ingredients in the products. Lots of ingredients are good for hair in general, relaxed or natural.

And, you don't have to make another thread to ask questions, you can just ask them in this one.

 

[msa]

Well, I have natural 3c hair. After looking at the boards for a week (and after this lady at the salon said I need protein), I went out and bought ApHogee 2 min reconstructor, Aussi Moist conditioner, some shampoo, some oils. I did a pre-poo including the Aphogee and let that bad boy sit for over night. The next day, I washed my hair, put in some Silicon Mix and it left some heavy film on my hair. I washed that out and then proceeded to twist my hair. I have also been putting the Moe Grow mix to scalp every other day and have been applying Profectiv to my ends. Needless to say, I now know that I went terribly wrong with the pre-poo, the Silicon Mix and the Profectiv; the jury is still out on the Moe Grow. My hair is currently crispy. When I've combed it in these past few days, more hair has come out and when the comb has gotten to my roots, it has felt hard and difficult to pull the comb through. Even when I put my hand to my scalp, the hair feels very coarse. I realize this is a protein overload (right?).

Basically, I'm trying to find a moisterizer that fits well with me; my protein products are fine and will prob do a treatment every month or so. I have the Jane Carter Nourish and Shine, but I don't even know if that's moisterizing my ends.......

I think your main problem here is that you left the aphogee 2 min on over night. The first time you use a product you should follow the directions and then see how it works. You may have just given yourself way too much protein.

Also, you did too much at once. When you start out don't use several new products at one time. You won't really be able to backtrack and figure out what caused the problem.

First, you need to assess your hair and figure out what it needs. That's going to take some research. The hair breakage 101 thread has the procedure for doing a wet assessment I think. Then you'll want to figure out "the basics" which are washing, conditioning, moisturizing, and sealing (if you decide you need to seal).

Let me see if I can find some natural threads to help you out.

 

[LaBelleLL]

You may just be seeing the more recent posts.
There are numerous posts about natural/relaxed/transitioning hair.
The only thing is, you will have to search back to find them. I know most people don't like doing that (not saying you're one of them), but sometimes you have to actually go back to the very last page and then skim the threads (by titles). That's how I've learned a lot.

There are many natural ladies on the board who have shared their reggies, photos, reviews, etc.

I hope you do find what you're looking for. There is a lot of knowledge here (but I know it can be very overwhelming at times).

Yes, you're right, but sometimes in reading people's posts - it has been difficult for me to discern if they are natural, texlaxed or relaxed. In the end, my real question stays the same - can there be a crossover in products? In understanding that I must do what is best for me, should I also take into consideration the fact that something may or may not work for me b/c my hair is natural, etc.?

 

[msa]

Yes, you're right, but sometimes in reading people's posts - it has been difficult for me to discern if they are natural, texlaxed or relaxed. In the end, my real question stays the same - can there be a crossover in products? In understanding that I must do what is best for me, should I also take into consideration the fact that something may or may not work for me b/c my hair is natural, etc.?

Yes, almost all products can be "crossover" products. At least I can't think of one that can't (aside from chemicals obviously). Things may not work for you because of many reasons (protein/moisture balance, fine vs. coarse strands, porosity issues, etc), not just because your hair is natural.

 

[LaBelleLL]

I think your main problem here is that you left the aphogee 2 min on over night. The first time you use a product you should follow the directions and then see how it works. You may have just given yourself way too much protein.

Also, you did too much at once. When you start out don't use several new products at one time. You won't really be able to backtrack and figure out what caused the problem.

First, you need to assess your hair and figure out what it needs. That's going to take some research. The hair breakage 101 thread has the procedure for doing a wet assessment I think. Then you'll want to figure out "the basics" which are washing, conditioning, moisturizing, and sealing (if you decide you need to seal).

Let me see if I can find some natural threads to help you out.

Oh ok, I think you're absolutely right. This weekend, i'm going to tone it down a bit. I think i'm going to pre-poo, DC, and then twist. So my other questions are:

Why do I want my shampoo to be cone-free? I came across a comprehensive list of cone free conditioners (none of which I have) and people were overjoyed so I figure it must be important.

I've definitely learned that I must follow the directions on the label so when choosing a leave-in conditioner, should I specifically buy a "leave-in" or can I use a regular conditioner as a leave-in? Will this cause more breakage?

As for moisterizing, I have a problem, lol. I came across the "Breakage and Strengthening" thread which was very helpful. I know that I need to balance protein and moisture. However, when I apply a moisterizer to my ends, I never know how much is enough. I am currently using the Jane Carter Nourish and Shine and i've read people say it goes a long way. At the rate i'm going, I don't think it this small bottle will last, so please, what are some signs that you look for to know that your ends are properly moisterized?

As for rosemary - what are the benefits? I'm looking to make a spritz to spray on my twists during the week to properly moisterize them and I've seen some people write about a rosemary concotion. What are the benefits of rosemary? For those that make your own spritzes for moisture, what are some of your mixes?

 

[Demi27]

Yes, almost all products can be "crossover" products. At least I can't think of one that can't (aside from chemicals obviously). Things may not work for you because of many reasons (protein/moisture balance, fine vs. coarse strands, porosity issues, etc), not just because your hair is natural.

I agree with MSA (in reference to your question).

 

[lilsparkle825]

Well, I have natural 3c hair. After looking at the boards for a week (and after this lady at the salon said I need protein), I went out and bought ApHogee 2 min reconstructor, Aussi Moist conditioner, some shampoo, some oils. I did a pre-poo including the Aphogee and let that bad boy sit for over night. The next day, I washed my hair, put in some Silicon Mix and it left some heavy film on my hair. I washed that out and then proceeded to twist my hair. I have also been putting the Moe Grow mix to scalp every other day and have been applying Profectiv to my ends. Needless to say, I now know that I went terribly wrong with the pre-poo, the Silicon Mix and the Profectiv; the jury is still out on the Moe Grow. My hair is currently crispy. When I've combed it in these past few days, more hair has come out and when the comb has gotten to my roots, it has felt hard and difficult to pull the comb through. Even when I put my hand to my scalp, the hair feels very coarse. I realize this is a protein overload (right?).

Basically, I'm trying to find a moisterizer that fits well with me; my protein products are fine and will prob do a treatment every month or so. I have the Jane Carter Nourish and Shine, but I don't even know if that's moisterizing my ends.......

Like msa said...I understand the desire to do everything at once...but it's best to just stick with the basics, i.e. shampoo/DC/perhaps cowashing, for a while before you add in other things like growth aids and all.

Some basic questions:
What is your regimen (what are you using, how often are you doing these steps)?
Are you using a leave-in conditioner? If so, which one?
How are you detangling? What are you using?

Oh ok, I think you're absolutely right. This weekend, i'm going to tone it down a bit. I think i'm going to pre-poo, DC, and then twist. So my other questions are:

Why do I want my shampoo to be cone-free? I came across a comprehensive list of cone free conditioners (none of which I have) and people were overjoyed so I figure it must be important.

I've definitely learned that I must follow the directions on the label so when choosing a leave-in conditioner, should I specifically buy a "leave-in" or can I use a regular conditioner as a leave-in? Will this cause more breakage?

As for moisterizing, I have a problem, lol. I came across the "Breakage and Strengthening" thread which was very helpful. I know that I need to balance protein and moisture. However, when I apply a moisterizer to my ends, I never know how much is enough. I am currently using the Jane Carter Nourish and Shine and i've read people say it goes a long way. At the rate i'm going, I don't think it this small bottle will last, so please, what are some signs that you look for to know that your ends are properly moisterized?

As for rosemary - what are the benefits? I'm looking to make a spritz to spray on my twists during the week to properly moisterize them and I've seen some people write about a rosemary concotion. What are the benefits of rosemary? For those that make your own spritzes for moisture, what are some of your mixes?

Your shampoo doesn't have to be cone-free; in fact there are lots of people, natural and relaxed, who swear by cones. For naturals, they can decrease tangled ends or SSKs (single strand knots). I use Herbal Essence conditioners, which to my knowledge have cones, and I love love love Hello Hydration.

I actually believe quite the opposite of your conclusion about reading labels; I have lots of conditioners that say leave on for 5 minutes and I leave them on for 45. I am quick to put some Aphogee 2 min in with my DC and leave it on for 45 minutes. You can use a leave-in (my favorite is GVP leave-in, you can get it at Sally's) but I am also prone to leaving in some HE Hello Hydration or Long Term Relationship. Your leave-in doesn't have to say leave-in. Just pay attention to how your hair reacts.

As far as moisturizing, I may not be much help there; my main sources of moisture are a) cowashing and applying my leave-in and b) using a spray bottle with my leave-in mixed with water. I rarely use a product labeled as a moisturizer because I cowash so much.

Do you mean rose water and not rosemary?

 

[LaBelleLL]

Like msa said...I understand the desire to do everything at once...but it's best to just stick with the basics, i.e. shampoo/DC/perhaps cowashing, for a while before you add in other things like growth aids and all.

Some basic questions:
What is your regimen (what are you using, how often are you doing these steps)?
Are you using a leave-in conditioner? If so, which one?
How are you detangling? What are you using?


Your shampoo doesn't have to be cone-free; in fact there are lots of people, natural and relaxed, who swear by cones. For naturals, they can decrease tangled ends or SSKs (single strand knots). I use Herbal Essence conditioners, which to my knowledge have cones, and I love love love Hello Hydration.

I actually believe quite the opposite of your conclusion about reading labels; I have lots of conditioners that say leave on for 5 minutes and I leave them on for 45. I am quick to put some Aphogee 2 min in with my DC and leave it on for 45 minutes. You can use a leave-in (my favorite is GVP leave-in, you can get it at Sally's) but I am also prone to leaving in some HE Hello Hydration or Long Term Relationship. Your leave-in doesn't have to say leave-in. Just pay attention to how your hair reacts.

As far as moisturizing, I may not be much help there; my main sources of moisture are a) cowashing and applying my leave-in and b) using a spray bottle with my leave-in mixed with water. I rarely use a product labeled as a moisturizer because I cowash so much.

Do you mean rose water and not rosemary?

My weekly regimen will now be:
1. pre-poo: Aussi conditioner, drops of EVOO, Coconut Oil, honey
2. co-wash with Aussi conditioner or Cantu shea butter rinse out condt.
3. DC with a conditioner (don't know with which kind yet, looking for non-protein one)
4. twist my hair, apply a serum to the ends
5. during the week, i'll just spritz my hair with something moisterizing (don't know what) and will apply Jane Cartner to my ends and seal with l'huile maskreti

what do you think?

 

[mkd]

It sounds like you left the aphogee on for way too long. I don't think protein overnight is a good thing. I also follow protein up with a moisturizing deep conditioner. Sounds like your hair could use a lot of moisture right now.

 

[lilsparkle825]

My weekly regimen will now be:
1. pre-poo: Aussi conditioner, drops of EVOO, Coconut Oil, honey
2. co-wash with Aussi conditioner or Cantu shea butter rinse out condt.
3. DC with a conditioner (don't know with which kind yet, looking for non-protein one)
4. twist my hair, apply a serum to the ends
5. during the week, i'll just spritz my hair with something moisterizing (don't know what) and will apply Jane Cartner to my ends and seal with l'huile maskreti

what do you think?

Well, a pre-poo is generally intended to keep shampoo from stripping your hair of moisture; I think if you are not using a shampoo or ACV rinse then you may not need to pre-poo. (This is probably important to add one or the other in, since conditioner can leave a buildup -- maybe once every 2 weeks or once a month you could add that in, with a pre-poo.) Cowashing followed by a DC also seems kind of unnecessary; what you could do is DC then use the conditioner in your hair as a cowash when you rinse it out (DCW = deep cowash). Also, the good thing about Aussie Moist is that in my opinion it makes both a fantastic cowash conditioner and DC. Other DCs that I love are GVP conditioning balm and Kenra MC, but of course you can find tons of other recommendations on here. A leave-in seems important especially since you are leaving your hair alone for a week after wash day -- apply a dollop of the Aussie Moist, or whatever leave-in you choose, to your hair before twisting. This could cut down on the need to moisturize, but if you do choose one, making a spritz from the Aussie Moist and water could work, or you could check out the billions of recipes on here.

 

[mkd]

Your regimen sounds good to me.

 

[msa]

I actually believe quite the opposite of your conclusion about reading labels; I have lots of conditioners that say leave on for 5 minutes and I leave them on for 45. I am quick to put some Aphogee 2 min in with my DC and leave it on for 45 minutes. You can use a leave-in (my favorite is GVP leave-in, you can get it at Sally's) but I am also prone to leaving in some HE Hello Hydration or Long Term Relationship. Your leave-in doesn't have to say leave-in. Just pay attention to how your hair reacts.

I think she came to that conclusion because of what I said. I think it's important that the first time you use something (especially as a newbie) it's a good idea to use it as the manufacturer intended. Then once you see how your hair reacts you can start tweaking stuff.

OP, I'm going to try to find you some links that answer your questions. It's just going to take me a minute.

 

[lilsparkle825]

I think she came to that conclusion because of what I said. I think it's important that the first time you use something (especially as a newbie) it's a good idea to use it as the manufacturer intended. Then once you see how your hair reacts you can start tweaking stuff.

OP, I'm going to try to find you some links that answer your questions. It's just going to take me a minute.

I agree to an extent -- I think it depends on the product and what market it is advertised to. I'm trying to think of any products I use for DCing that say anything about leaving them on longer than 3-5 minutes...not to mention the fact that shampoo generally says "lather, rinse, repeat" when a repeat is not necessary. (I know that I am biased against shampoo though...LOL)

 

[LaBelleLL]

I meant rosemary for the spritz.....
I saw a recipe from the Forum and wondered about its benefits:
http://www.longhaircareforum.com/showthread.php?t=334419&page=3

 

[FlowerHair]

I'm natural and I don't use any protein treatments...

I just focus on moisturizing, since my hair is dry by nature

Yes, the same products can be used by anyone - both relaxed, natural and anyone in between. You just have to find products that work for your specific hair.

Welcome to the board!!

 

[vkb247]

Oh ok, I think you're absolutely right. This weekend, i'm going to tone it down a bit. I think i'm going to pre-poo, DC, and then twist. So my other questions are:

Why do I want my shampoo to be cone-free? I came across a comprehensive list of cone free conditioners (none of which I have) and people were overjoyed so I figure it must be important.

I've definitely learned that I must follow the directions on the label so when choosing a leave-in conditioner, should I specifically buy a "leave-in" or can I use a regular conditioner as a leave-in? Will this cause more breakage?

As for moisterizing, I have a problem, lol. I came across the "Breakage and Strengthening" thread which was very helpful. I know that I need to balance protein and moisture. However, when I apply a moisterizer to my ends, I never know how much is enough. I am currently using the Jane Carter Nourish and Shine and i've read people say it goes a long way. At the rate i'm going, I don't think it this small bottle will last, so please, what are some signs that you look for to know that your ends are properly moisterized?

As for rosemary - what are the benefits? I'm looking to make a spritz to spray on my twists during the week to properly moisterize them and I've seen some people write about a rosemary concotion. What are the benefits of rosemary? For those that make your own spritzes for moisture, what are some of your mixes?

Many people avoid silicones in their conditioners because some cones require shampooing to remove them which many don't do on a regular basis and some cones require SLS (in the shampoo) to remove them and Sulfates/SLS are very harsh on curly hair, drying, and are said to be carcinogenic/are used to clean cement/etc/etc. Otherwise a no no for most.

BTW: Silicon Mix has quite a lot of protein in it and has mineral oil so I don't think that it is moisturizing enough to use after a protein treatment.

I personally find that regular conditioners are more moisturizing than leave in conditioners that I have tried so that is what I use. But I had to get my moisture level up first by dcing and pre pooing a lot. I don't see anything wrong with you pre pooing, cowashing, then dcing if you are having problems retaining moisture. I thought I would always have very dry hair but it isn't anymore after dcing, pre pooing, eliminating shampoo 90% of the time, and eventually I started hennaing too. I think that layer of henna that coats the hair can help hold moisture like a good protein treatment.

I say my hair is moisturized when it feels moisturized to me. I actually love using lots of conditioner so I mainly stick with V05, White Rain, gems I find at the dollar store, and other cheapies so that I can use as much as I want. But I also have lots of hair. Of course the more I use the longer my hair takes to dry and sometimes adding too much conditioner can make hair look dingy and cause ickiness. But conditioners are all different and when you are putting them in your hair also makes a difference. I think that experimentation is a girl's best friend when trying to figure out what's best for you. I never even look at the label except when I am checking the ingredients!!!!!!!

I use rosemary in my oil rinses (I strain with a piece of pantyhose) because rosemary can stimulate the scalp and promote hair growth. You must be cautious using it if you are pregnant or have high blood pressure. Rosemary also helps keep your hair nice and dark.

 

[LynnieB]

to ItsLindsey.

Glad you're out and about on the boards

HHG to ya!