Quick Hair Update

So I'm going to make this really quick because I'm busy editing a writing sample while suffering from a migraine. 

I'm two months into my protective style challenge, so the easy part is out of the way. Usually after two months of no heat I'm itching to run to my Dominican Salon and get my wash and set. To make matters worse, one of my SBU besties called me today and asked me if I wanted to go with her to get my hair done. You'll be happy to know I declined and let her know there are two months left in my hair challenge. 

As far as growth, I think I've retained some length (because hair is always growing). I'm just not 100% sure how much length because when I did the initial measurements my hair was straight. It's difficult to get an accurate measurement in its natural state because of shrinkage. After the first month of the challenge I took pics of my hair braided (I usually braid my hair after washing it to allow the hair to stretch while air drying). I took another picture once I hit the second month mark. I will upload those pics when I get a chance. The only pic I have prior to starting my hair challenge is of my hair straightened, so I think I will get a better idea of the growth once the hair challenge is over and I straighten my hair.

In addition to growth, I am noticing a lot more thickness. Back in the fall, I braided my hair with synthetic hair and when I took the braids out my hair was sooooo thin. It was very discouraging. But, now I am noticing my thickness return. Additionally, I've noticed that my hair does not have as much heat damage as I thought it did. The back of my hair is pretty much completely natural. The front my hair is the problem, but I'm not ready to cut it off yet because...you guessed it...I love my hair straight. 

Well that's all for now. More updates to come. 

Protective Styles vs. Low Manipulation

Hey guys. Sheesh, this blogging thing is harder than I thought. Only my third post about hair and already I'm slacking off.



Anywho, I'm here to discuss the difference between protective styling and styling which should be labeled as low manipulation. The major difference comes down to this...where are the ends of your hair?



When your hair is in a protective style, the ends of your hair should be completely tucked away. This can be achieved through buns, sew-in weaves, phony ponytails, wigs, etc. protective styling is essential to hair growth. In order to see results in your individual hair growth journeys, you have to preserve the oldest parts of your hair, your ends. See, many people will make statements like "My hair just won't grow" without being properly informed of the actual problem. In most cases, the hair is growing, but you just aren't retaining that length. Why are you not retaining it? Simple, your ends are breaking off.



Low manipulation styles do not keep the ends of your hair protected, but they do allow you to take breaks from handling your hair on a daily basis. As a result, most people will experience very little breakage. Examples include braid outs, twist outs, rod sets, etc.



So, why does my challenge focus on protective rather than low manipulation styling? Because protective styling is the best way to maximize your ability to retain length. Take care of your ends and they will be around much longer.



With that quick lesson, you should understand that my goal is not to GROW my hair, it's to retain my length. Hair grows on average anywhere from 1/4 inch to 1 inch a month. Now I've never been diligent about measuring my hair so I cannot say what's my normal growth rate. However, I will do a length check next month (around February 2nd) and I will let you know what my hair growth for this month was.



On another note, so people have requested pictures and video. I am contemplating whether or not I should start a YouTube page, however, that will happen a little later if at all. Not sure how many people are actually reading and would tune in to my channel.


My next post will talk about moisturizing your hair; this is definitely another key element to hair retention.



Thanks for reading and please drop a comment. Let me know if there are any topics you would like me to address in my next post.


And if anyone's wondering, my protective styles consist mainly of half wigs, buns, and braids :-)

Hair Challenge

Today I started my 4 month hair challenge. I will refrain from heat and wear protective styles during this period. I'm hoping to retain 2 inches of hair. I love wearing my hair straight, so this will really be a challenge for me. If I can exercise some self control, the challenge may last a little longer. So, here are our starting measurements.

Left back: 12 inches
Left side: 11 inches
Left front: 10 inches
Right back: 10 inches
Right side: 10 3/4 inches
Right front: 10 1/2 inches

I just straighted my hair on Christmas Eve. So, I did a protein treatment and followed that up with a moisturizing deep conditioner. In my next post, I'll share my regimen and, hopefully, some pics. If anyone wants to join me during this challenge, please let me know.