Inspiring Others w/my Naturality

Hey blogger family....just a quick post for you all today. Had something great happen to me at church yesterday, and I wanted to share with the group and hopefully inspire you as well :)

Yesterday, after church, a fellow parishioner stopped me to compliment me on my hair. Apparently, she has been noticing my uniqueness and versatility with hair styles (that I wear on Sunday) and felt compelled to speak with me. She mentioned that she had been talking about my hair for a couple of weeks now and finally her husband suggested that she talks stops talking behind my back (that was funny) and just ask me about my hair, regimen, etc ( isn't that interesting family).

She wanted to know what I do to my hair to have it look the way it does. See, she "tried" to go natural a few months ago and it didn't work. She only allowed herself to transition for like 3 months and then she gave up...again... She was intrigued by my style and wanted to know specifically what I am doing to maneuver it AND what products I used. It sounded like she was on the fence with deciding to try to transition to naturality again, so it was only fair to pitch the case for going natural :)

So of course I did a consultation..right there in the church pew. Lol. I spoke briefly about my journey and how you have to be serious to commit to changing your hair regimen (mentioning that shea butter is my staple product) and patient with letting your natural hair grow and develop. This is a life decision (well at least in my opinion) and you have to make sure you will commit to the changes your hair (and you pschologically) will experience. I gave examples of how I wanted to give up and how I had to have a "straight talk" with myself, my ego and my self esteem. Once I was able to accept myself (and all my fabulousness) it became easier to learn how to do my hair, look in the mirror and walk with confidence. I spoke about how those around you may not support your decision, but you have to remind yourself that you are doing this for yourself, not others.

I mentioned that you can't "run to the perm" when your hair doesn't look the way you want it to (like she did before). Doing this starts the transition all over again and really defeats the purpose of the transition. You need to accept how God made you and your hair, love it unconditionally and nurture it ALWAYS....remembering we were all created in his image. I also mentioned that you have to give your hair time to heal and in the end you will not regret your decision of going natural.

I ended the discussion on some economically, but effective store brand options to get her started. Also, I suggested some possible transitional/protective styles that she can do at home. Briefly (because I had to go) I mentioned the fact that transitioning is trial and error...you may do a style that doesn't turn out the way you want at first...but don't fret....the neat thing is that you can try try again :). We agreed to do a "check in" the next time I'm at service/get back into town. As her unofficial mentor, I plan to check in with her once I return from my week of travel. Lets keep our possible transitional sista lifted.

The reason for posting this.....you never know who is watching you and also how your naturality could possibly inspire others. I know the majority of us get regular compliments on our hair, the styles and probably our confidence as well. While this may seem a little annoying (super star status..lol), you never know why you are receiving the compliments. This is the third person who has inquired about my naturality AND has been inspired to transition to wearing their natural hair just by watching me and how I carry myself. To be honest family, that makes me feel really good inside.

So I ask all of my family on here....are you inspiring others to be all they can be (in general)? Are you carrying yourself in away that others will want to model the same POSITIVE behavior that you portray? These are the questions I ask and reflect on daily as part of my overall encouragement but also improvement family. Its nice to see that my intentional attitude/character development (behavior) is working not only for my betterment, but has inspired someone else to do better as well.

The orAKAle has spoken.........

I know its been a long time coming, but I finally got around to doing my first ever product review (PR), here on The Silky Chronicles! Thanks to all my family who faithfully follows this blog for the suggestions, comments and much consistent love you have shown me to date! Whether its updated pictures and/or updated entries that I have posted, I constantly get asked "what do you use on your hair?". Well if you read the title of this post, you FINALLY got your answer. Lol. Karen's Body Beautiful (KBB) all the way for me!

Since the beginning of my journey, I've always had KBB as the dominant part of my staple products in my hair care collection. Whether I was transitioning or after the big chop, some form of her items have helped my hair grow into the healthy, thick and LONG hair that it is today. Below is a brief review of the products I HAVE TRIED only and is not a full reflection on her entire line. All items mentioned below are currently use in my natural hair regimen:


Conditioning Shampoo - (8 oz) Cleans and moisturizes hair without stripping it.

Ingredients: Purified Water, Saponified Coconut & Safflower Oils, Vegetable Glycerin, Aloe Vera, Echinacea, Nettle, Horsetail, Panthenol, Essential and/or Fragrance Oils

My thoughts - While I know that no-poo/co-washing is all the rave (lol), I absolutely love and prefer this stuff! If you are a type of naturalista that needs shampoo in your life, this is the stuff for you. There is not a huge lather, but it gets the job done. Hair looks, smells and feels clean and very soft after using. I also like the fact that I don't have to use a lot (like regular poos) so one bottle can go a long way. Only downfall is that if you do use to much, it can cause leave a residue on the scalp (this is usually how you know that you used to much); BUT this can be counteracted by doing another detailed rinse!


Deep Conditioner- (8 oz or 16oz) Provides protection to thirsty, brittle prone hair with panthenol that seals the hair follicle.

Ingredients: Purified Water, Jojoba Oil, Vegetable Glycerin, Vegetable Wax, Aloe Vera, Echinacea, Nettle, Horsetail, Panthenol, Essential and/or Fragrance Oils & Natural Enzymes

My thoughts - The conditioner will leave your hair feeling soft and very manageable for detangling. I use this faithfully after my weekly deep treatment OR sometimes AS my deep treatment (depending on time). It provides very good slip to detangle either with your fingers or a comb. A little goes a long way as well!


Hair Milk- (8 oz or 16oz) Product moisturizes the detangles, defrizzes and defines your curls. Can be used several times a week.

Ingredients: Purified Water, Jojoba and Avocado Oils,Vegetable Wax, Vitamin E, Panthenol, Arnica and Calendula Flowers, Echinacea, Nettle and Horsetail Extracts, Vegetable Glycerin, Wheat Germ Oil, Fragrance Oils & Natural Enzymes

My thoughts - When they say that a "dab is all you need"...nothing can be further from the truth. This product serves as a great curl refresher and/or a leave in conditioner before styling the hair. I usually use this product daily either a night to rebraid/twist my hair OR in the morning if I am doing a wash n go/"wild fro" day. Lol. I always keep a bottle of this stuff in my collection at all times. If you like light products packed with all the good stuff (but will not weigh the hair down), this is the item for you! Again, another product I used faithfully as I was transitioning.


Hair Butter- (8 oz) Made only from rich, thick butters and luxurious oils. Hair butter conditions, softens and adds sheen to fragile, stressed hair. Great for natural, relaxed or pressed hair. Suggested use: twice a week on hair and scalp or more as needed.

Ingredients: Shea, Coca, Mango, Jojoba and Aloe Butter, Essential and/or Fragrance Oils, Grapefruit Seed Oil and Vitamin E. 99.4% natural

My thoughts - I love how this product can be used on all types of hair. KBB's hair butter was used (by me) more when I was transitioning than now. It was great for twists, twist/braid outs and pressing (as mentioned). It also works well on straightening transitional hair. Sadly to say, I don't think I used this product the best way I could have. To me, it was a little to thick for my licking, but did wonders if I used it ONLY on my hair when dry. I would suggest anyone who is transitioning to give this product a try!


Hair Cream- (8 oz) Enriched with ingredients that stimulate hair growth and strengthen your hair shaft, this cream moisturizes and adds sheen to dull, dry hair. Excellent for natural, relaxed or pressed hair. Suggested use: twice a week on hair and scalp or more as needed.

Ingredients: Shea Butter, Rosehip Oil,Vegetable Glycerin,Essential and/or Fragrance Oils, Vitamin E & Carrot Seed Oil. 99.4% natural

My thoughts - I usually partner this product with the hair milk. If I just cleansed and conditioned, I use the milk as a leave in then follow up with this item to style. Again...another fabo and fav of mine that is ALWAYS stocked in my collection. This product is not to heavy and not to light...its just right! I really use this product to braid/twist my hair, but mainly as a morning refresher for my coils. While I did not use this product while transitioning, I have used this on someone's hair who was transitioning....EXCELLENT for styling!


Overall I would highly suggest this product to any and everyone (natural or not). When I was transitioning and researching the best products to try, I had the hardest time trying to find products that worked best for type 4 hair. No offense to other products, but the thing I love about KBB is that no matter what your hair type is, it works for you! Discovering how and what to use is left up to the person, but it will leave your hair soft, manageable and very cute to take on the world. Lol. This is a line that the entire family can use...no really....lol.

On her website, you can order a trial size package of some of her items. Also, if you sign up for her mailing list, every week she has this special call "Freebee Fridays" where on that day, you get some sort of deal if you place an order. This is how I am able to maximize the products I buy, but not spend a bunch of money. All prices are clearly marked on her website as well.

FYI - The hair milk is her number one seller...and I can totally see why. You will love what it does for your hair...trust me :)

If any of you have used her line and have suggestions or comments, I welcome them. Let us know what worked for you OR didn't work....and I hope you will consider trying out the products.


The orAKAle has spoken........



Source - all products, descriptions and prices can be found on the Karen's Body Beautiful site found here.

Its my Nappaversary!

( DUDE my fro is huge)

A year ago on this date (well actually it was more like on November 13th), I decided to chop my hair off and start over. Lol. After about 8 months of transitioning (which was suppose to be longer...but I digress), I removed my first set of braids and had at it (with the scissors). Lol.

When I think back to my first initial response to my new look, I remember having thoughts of doubts and even wanting to cry. "What have I done" is a phrase that I remember saying over an over. See like most newbies, I was not totally sure of what I was getting myself into, but couldn't turn back..not now. After the support and love of many of you who follow me AND have their own blog at that, the journey became easier and a very liberating decision. To this date, I don't understand why I even doubted myself AND my natural black beauty.

At first, my family was a little shocked. Some snide comments here and there and a lot staring. Fast forward to the present day...nothing but compliments (even from those none nappy headed lovers). I have even had family members asking me how to help their children hair be as healthy and soft besides using the relaxer/perm method.....for convenience, manageability and cost savings....HA....who would have guest that.

Its amazing how one person can spark a new appreciation of what it means to be black AND what is beauty. This right here is why I decided to let go of the chemicals and heat. To be a beacon of hope and inspiration to all my naturalistas (especially my 4 A/C divas); that its ok to let your TRUE beauty shine threw when it comes to hair AND that you don't need to have it straightened to be accepted.

This journey has been a humbling one for me, and I am so thankful and appreciative that God had me embark on this journey now at this age, versus earlier (or later). Below are more pics I took to commemorate my new hair, looks and length to you...my family.

( ok so I was in the car trying to motivate myself to go into Walmart to shop...it was crazy)



( this is my favorite look)

To each of you, thank you so much for your love and support of me. More styles to come for you family.....

"Holy Grail" Hair Day

For those who REALLY follow the Silky Chronicles, already know that I posted an entry that dismissed the whole idea of "holy grail" hair....WELL family, I have to surrender because TODAY I had some absolutely perfect and gorgeous photos of a twist out set I did.

Take a look and tell me what you think:

All Twisted UP (current hair style)

As promised, below are pictures of my hair after taking my braids out. For those of you who may not remember, I wore a set of GORGEOUS braids fof about 2 1/2 months. Click here to see the results. I have never received so many compliments in my life on my hair, then when I had those braids. Definitely will be getting some again soon!

After the detangling fiasco of 2009 (lol) from removing those braids, I decided to do a protective style for the month of November and December. I must admit, I freaked out a little when cleansing my hair after having it braided up. I think the issues was the products I use. Luckily I had some of my staple products Karen's Body Beautiful handy to hook me up (look for a future post on my current hair regimen and products I use).

Take a look at the below pics and tell me what you think. The first 3 are of a wet twist set.

I usually wear this style for 1-2 weeks (depending on my schedule), cleansing the the scalp with Sea Breeze. It helps to keep the hair clean so I can wear them longer. So after wards, I untwist my head to get the below (please note no make up so no comments):

I'm so excited with my progress. My hair is growing faster than I anticipated and in great shape. Officially, I'm 17 months chemical free and 14 months ALL NATURAL. As always, I take criticism and suggestions. Tell me what you think all!


The orAKAle has spoken........

NEW HAIR PICS - I'm braided up

Hey family,

I totally forgot that I promised to show you pictures of me braided up. Please bare with me, for I literally broke my digital camera and currently working without one. I only was able to capture a few pictures before my camera said I'M DONE!!! Lol. There hasn't been any post on the natural hair subject due to me being braided up. Hope you enjoy them and tell me what you think:

not the best pic in the world (lop sided) but again my camera was literally dying as I was taking this. lol



this is a side view and a style that I wear often. You will see some highlights that I had added in randomly on my head.


I usually wear it pulled back like this or half up or half down. The picture I took of it all the way down did not come out right AND I will tell you its A LOT of hair. I've gotten nothing but compliments on it from a diverse group of people. I'm loving it!!

I have to give credit to my super fabulous stylist Ms. Anta. She can be found a the nationally known natural hair shop "Napps". If you are in the Missouri area and want braids, she is worth the drive to the STL to get em done...she is the truth.


The orAKAle has spoken......................

The Peferct Twist Out Set

Today I'm tooting my own horn, for I have come a long way with my twisting skills. Recently I did a twist out set (hair was lightly damp) that I am excited to report turned out PERFECTLY!!! Since going natural, I've struggled with developing the right technique for twisting my hair, along with determining the right products to use to maximize GOOD results. After much trial and error, I think I've found my staple regimen for doing the "perfect" twist out set!

As mentioned in a previous post, I cleansed and condition as usual (check out my regimen post here for details), then used my twisting concoction to seal the deal on the hair. Lol. Check out the pics below and tell me what you think:

I must admit, I am getting better and better with this, but my only issue is that it takes me so long to do. Honestly, I rather it take longer to twist my head, for it to turn out this nice. In keeping with positive vibes, this is also a sign (the length in time to twist) that my hair is growing. YIPPIE!!!!

Please note that I do not use any sort of polisher or finishing gloss on my hair after untwisting and styling. The shine you see is natural.

What you think family? The orAKAle has spoken......

Dry Twist Set

To bring some diversity to my blog on natural hair, I wanted to share a quick post on a DIFFERENT type of twisting I also use. Its called a dry twist set (which eventually turns into a twist out...but I will go more into that below). This is a style that many natural hair stylist does for those transitioning, but can also work with total naturalistas as well!



To get this look all I did was cleanse my hair as usual (check out "Current Hair Regimen" for specifics) but instead of double strand twist while hair is wet/soaked, I actually blow out my hair. The key is to get it totally dry and as "straight" as your texture can get. I highly recommend you seal your hair (after blowing out) with a very light oil/moisturizer to protect the hair. I use my staple product Shea Butter.



I take my favorite twisting product (in the pictures below I used a mixture of unrefined shea butter, coconut oil and olive oil) and put a medium amount all over the head.....and I start twisting. I only use more product if I think my twist aren't taking....but usually I have no issues. Below are the results of dry twisting the hair:




My sister actually did this one for me! I gotta be economical ya'll...we are in a recession (ok I will let it go...lol). Not bad for an amateur job huh.......



I've learned that the key is to evenly distribute the twisting product (not much is needed) from root to ends (then possible using a little more for my "special" ends) and twist as close as possible to the root down to the ends. Depending on your skills and length of your hair, this can take from 30-45 minutes to complete. Professional stylist can do this for you as well, but it may run you from $55-100!!!! I suggest mastering this on your own. Lol.


I usually wear my hair in these twists for at least a week (max two). After wards I take either my favorite essential oils to separate out the twist into two parts. To see pictures of the results of this style, check out my Current Hair Regimen post pics here.


So your girl is getting braided up this weekend for the next 2-3 months. I will post some pics of the outcome next week (hopefully). Once the braids come out, I will be at my 1 year Nappaversary (is that a word....lol)!!! I'm very excited to see how far I've come in the past 12 months, and plan to do a tribute post to my success.


For those who've been asking, I plan to seriously update my Fotki (Ms. Silky Coils if you want to subscribe) REALLY soon! Lol. I guess since starting this blog, I don't see a need to have that account, for I post all updates and styles (that I can remember to do) on here. I mean....who has time to really update 3-4 different sites...lol...I sure don't.


the orAKAle has spoken.......

Current Hair Regimen

As promised I'm coming to you with my current hair regimen (what I use and the current styles I rock). This is just a quick post for all those who have been asking. I finally made the time to post these.

I am currently cleansing my hair with Karen's Body Beautiful (KBB) conditioning shampoo, DC with Organics Hair Mayonnaise and apply the Cantu Shea LIC as my sealant. Below are results of quick twist out set. I usually spray my hair with my summer spritzer (Cantu Shea LIC, Coconut Oil and Water), and use my finger to separate the hair. This is a quick style that I may do in between styling in my week.

this what the quick twist out looks like not pulled up

Next are another set of pictures of a more defined twist out set. During this time, I actually shake dry my hair (after rinsing out the DC), apply a small amount of my leave in, and then allow for my hair to air dry for 10 minutes. The goal is to keep the hair wet, but not soaked to twist the hair. I do use a wide tooth comb for parting and my unrefined shea butter, coconut oil and olive oil on my hair to twist my hair. Since I already used my usual leave in, only a little was needed.

(notice how more defined my coils are, along with body and height)

(HOLLA IF YA HEAR ME!!!!)

(I was just being silly with these...as I was suppose to be working)

Again, just a quick post since I haven't really posted anything of this nature to the blog. Next topic to come includes my first every PRODUCT REVIEW!!! I just received my sample pack of Komaza Hair and Skin Care in the mail today, so I will post the results and how I like it. Please feel free to leave a comment and tell me what you think family.

The orAKAle has spoken.......

For the Love of Shea

Happy Motivated Monday all! I must apologize for the late posts AND the fact that I have not spoken on my new found love of naturality/naturalism (on this blog). I've been so consumed with current events and also work (as usual) that I totally forgot that I havent' really spoken out on being natural. What doe this mean you may ask.....I've recently embarked on my journey to natural hair (you all already knew this) AND recently introducing natural bath and body products! YES, I am taking the information that I am learning about some of the natural products I use to maintain my silky coiliness and and applying it to the daily maintenance of my body. Today I wanted to weigh in on the ever so popular (and somewhat main streamed) Shea butter. For those who may not know, lets start with a basic description of what it is and then work our way up to how you can use:


WHAT IS IT ANYWAY.....
Shea butter is a light gray or beige colored seed oil that is extracted from the seed found inside the nuts of Shea tree. It is also referred to as the Karite tree. This unique tree can be found in 19 countries found only in the continent of Africa.

These trees only grow in the wild and can take up to 50 years to mature..but can live up to 300 years (crazy right)! Destruction of the shea tree tree is said to be prohibited because this little nut can provide a valuable source of food, medicine, and income for the population. Shea butter is sometimes referred to as "women's gold" in Africa, because so many women are employed in the production of Shea butter.


HOW CAN i USE IT....
Neat thing about this supplement is that it can be used for just about EVERYTHING. Shea butter can be used as to help heal burns, scares and also reduce wrinkles. How... it moisturizes the skin, promoting cell renewal, and increasing circulation. One of its common use is for the hair and skin care. Since shea has proven to be an effective moisturizer (due to the fatty acids that are needed to retain skin moister and elasticity), commercially, it been added to many cosmetic products (shampoo, lotion, oils, facial treatments, etc) we use today!

It can and will protect the hair and skin (if used properly). As for the hair, Shea butter can serve as a natural moisturizer for the hair follicles, but also can be used to repair damaged hair. Since it is natural, you don't necessarily have to add a bunch of "other" ingredients to this supplement to get the desired out come. Some people prefer to use it solely by itself, while others use it as an ingredient to a SUPER mixture for their hair and body regimen. I say why not do both! You can repair and naturally moisturize yourself from head to toe!



HOW IS THE orAKAle USING IT.......
Well I am glad that you asked!! Currently, I am using unrefined Shea butter in my scalp oil, daily body butter mix which I ABSOLUTELY LOVE ( its actually called "Coconut Confidence"created and named by the lovely and inspirational Sunshinelovespeace) and in my weekly leave in conditioner. Since I have type 4 A/B (and sometimes I see some C...but I digress) hair, this supplement is perfect for the perfect moister point I seek, plus my coils are defined and LOVE IT. Not only am I protecting my silky coils, but also keeping it properly moisturized AND stimulating hair growth (repair if needed). I am overly conscious about my hair/skin and its moister.....I'm always looking to see if its to dry, overly oily, etc. Well with adding Shea butter to my daily hair and body regimen and making sure its a staple in my alternative shampoo's and conditioners, I know that I am treating my coils good (and in return..they will do the same).

I plan to start updating you all on my hair regimen, and also my work out routines on here as well (since some have asked). You have to bare with me, for I am without a camera at the moment, so it makes it a little hard to post pictures in a timely manner. Lol. While some have told me specifically to "do better"...I promise I am trying family.

Until next time, the orAKAle has spoken..................


Information in this post were found on the following sites:
~ www.vitaminstuff.com
~ Premium-Grade-Shea Butter.com
~ www.short-hair-style.com