Help

[carameldlite]

Hi everyone,
I just recently suscribed to LHCF and I am so happy that I have found this this forum because I have wanted to grow beautiful long hair (like many of you ladies) for a really long time. However, I have never had any inspirations around me, all the women in my family have short, nibby (?) hair and I have always been convinced that my hair would be no longer than just grazing my shoulders. My mother used to relax my whole entire head every month, and when I went to a stylist every week for about a year my hair had improved in condition but still was no longer due to me getting my ends "trimmed" after every relaxer. So, last year in 11th grade I found Cathy Howse's website, book, and products. I never really was able to fully do her 365 day regimen because I didnt have the money to invest in her products, but is what she saying actually true. I have read several posts and many of y'all use protein in your products, use brushes, don't use her products, and still have absolutely gorgeous heads of hair. I did retain a little length using her products but my hair has not got any healthier and that is what I am really concerned about. So, all of you hair guru's can you please answer a few of my questions:
1. What is the deal about brushing your hair? Is it good or is it bad?
2. Is protein OK for the hair in the moisturizing phase?
3. How do 4a/b ladies keep newgrowth soft?

Thanks in advance for any responses.
BTW I have 4a/b hair and also use the Nexxus Line after many raves about the product so I guess Im in the Nexxus Users Club .

 

[mrslee]

Welcome!!

To answer your question, brushing does something to the cuticles and makes hair shaft appear rugged. Also protein is good at any stage when the hair needs a pick me up. To soften new growth WGO, or castor oil.

I am sure the other ladies can help you. Good Luck

 

[webby]

Welcome to the forum

Brushing: I don't brush my hair. I believe that brushing relaxed hair increases chances for damage and split ends. I only use a brush to do my blow outs and even then, it's more to hold the hair taut, not to pull through. I use a wide-tooth comb at night to wrap my hair and in the mornings I just shake my doobie out, try not to comb.

Proteins: I think that over use or improper use of proteins can lead to breakage and will end with negative results. If the hair is in good shape, I think that protein can safely be used once every month or two. If you are experiencing breakage or shedding, then protein can be used every other week, but the strength depends on what your hair can tolerate.

Keeping new growth soft: I rely on super moisturizing products to keep NG soft. I just discovered Tigi products: Moisture Maniac & Self-Absorbed. These conditioners are incredible. I always use a leave-in, creme conditioner, like Nexxus Humectress. One highly recommended product is KeraKare Humecto. I just bought some over the weekend, but haven't tried it yet. I think proper conditioning, along with a good routine will keep your hair manageable.

Retaining length: Dust, dust, dust your hair. Trims are counterproductive, when you are trying to gain length, unless your hair is damaged or has gone too long w/o shaving off the split ends. If the hair is good shape, regular dustings (taking off the most minute amount of hair) can save you the greatest amount of length. I dust every 8-9 weeks and trim only when it's necessary, mainly in the summer months.

 

[Poohbear]

First-of all, I would like to say WELCOME TO THE LHCF!
Now, to answer your questions...

1. What is the deal about brushing your hair? Is it good or is it bad?
I only use a boar bristle brush to smooth my edges sometimes if putting my hair in a bun...No other time. But I do think it's okay to use a Denman brush to detangler or a round brush to blowdry...just don't rake it through your hair.

2. Is protein OK for the hair in the moisturizing phase?
I think it's okay...just do not go overboard with using a product that contains protein (or keratin).

3. How do 4a/b ladies keep newgrowth soft?
I have type 4a hair. To keep my newgrowth soft, the following products have helped: Surge Hair Revitalizer Plus 14 and S-Curl No Drip Activator & Moisturizer.

Hope that helps! Enjoy your stay here!