tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-80862221440664382962024-02-22T16:18:45.449-05:00Tina Opie: My Ethnic Hair Journeytopiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12981039926077521964noreply@blogger.comBlogger379125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8086222144066438296.post-22208942684350852422013-10-30T22:30:00.001-04:002013-10-30T22:30:32.617-04:00New Website!Hello everyone,<br />
<br />
I just launched my brand new website dedicated to my research: <a href="http://hairasidentity.com/">http://hairasidentity.com/</a><br />
<br />
I hope you check it out and have a chance to interact!<br />
<br />topiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12981039926077521964noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8086222144066438296.post-21830528257265496432012-06-01T12:19:00.000-04:002012-06-01T12:21:55.458-04:00New York Times Video on Natural Hair: Ms. Zina Saro-Wiwa Knocks it Out of the ParkHello everyone,<br />
<br />
You know that natural hair is not a fad when the <i>NY Times</i> dedicates an op-doc video to the topic: <a href="http://video.nytimes.com/video/2012/05/31/opinion/100000001579773/transition.html">NY Times video on natural hair</a>. Ms. Zina Saro-Wiwa (read more about her <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zina_Saro-Wiwa">here</a>) does a fabulous job narrating the video (she is also director, producer and camera). Plus, she has a big chop in the video! I also love how Ms. Saro-Wiwa deals with the media's near universal depiction of Black women wearing wigs and weaves. I am sentimental and I find myself in tears as I watch the video. I am so proud to be part of this return to our authentic selves. <br />
<br />
What do you think?<br />
<br />topiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12981039926077521964noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8086222144066438296.post-2490235686820354342012-05-21T11:57:00.001-04:002012-05-21T11:57:22.326-04:00Cross-Cultural Hair Experience at Lush Cosmetics Part 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.google.com/url?source=imglanding&ct=img&q=http://madamenoire.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/blackwomanwhitewoman.jpg&sa=X&ei=XGW6T7-VFcKjgwfF_e1H&ved=0CAkQ8wc&usg=AFQjCNEY8mmUo2fmjj_QYd57nwN-Uf_Rng" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://www.google.com/url?source=imglanding&ct=img&q=http://madamenoire.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/blackwomanwhitewoman.jpg&sa=X&ei=XGW6T7-VFcKjgwfF_e1H&ved=0CAkQ8wc&usg=AFQjCNEY8mmUo2fmjj_QYd57nwN-Uf_Rng" width="320" /></a></div>
Hello everyone,<br />
<br />
As I mentioned earlier, I had no idea that Lush takes its customer service so seriously. A White saleswoman reached for my hair, my eyes grew large and I thought, "Wait, is she about to DO my hair?"<br />
<br />
YES!!!! Before I could jump up, she put her hands in my hair and began to scrunch the R&B product through my bangs. As she scrunched, she said things like it will soften my kinky hair, make it smoother, longer, etc. Wait, did SHE just call MY hair "kinky"? Yes, I have kinky hair but that's for me to say not her, right? Right? Why in the world did I find that adjective so offensive when it came from her mouth? My observant Mother was giving the saleswoman the side eye and looking at me as if to say, "No she didn't". We walked out of the store with our sample in hand (still need to try it) venting about the saleswoman's gall to call my hair kinky. <br />
<br />
Don't get me wrong, I think the saleswoman was an absolute sweetheart who was doing her best to educate me about what looks like a great product (White saleswoman, if you are reading this, please know that I am not hating; sorry, I really should have gotten your name!). However, I do believe that such organizations should recognize potential pitfalls when working with different hair types and textures. Specifically, I think their employees need to be sensitized to the fact that hair is intimately connected to identity and that identity is connected to ingroup (us) and outgroup (them) dynamics. Because of this, outgroup members may accidentally set off identity landmines and be completely unaware that they have incensed a customer. <br />
<br />
What do you think? Have you ever experienced such an interaction? Do you think that I should write Lush Cosmetics and have this discussion with their management team?<br />
<br />
Curious to hear your thoughts.<br />
<br />
Thanks,<br />
<br />
Tina<br />
<br />topiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12981039926077521964noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8086222144066438296.post-30844208285701112842012-05-19T12:25:00.001-04:002012-05-19T12:25:21.178-04:00Cross-Cultural Hair Experience at Lush Cosmetics<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.google.com/url?source=imglanding&ct=img&q=http://madamenoire.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/blackwomanwhitewoman.jpg&sa=X&ei=_Mi3T9nFHMetgwfhlPGtCg&ved=0CAkQ8wc&usg=AFQjCNFBNqSL8KCH4Oxr9XdQrJ_fwWLtmA" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://www.google.com/url?source=imglanding&ct=img&q=http://madamenoire.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/blackwomanwhitewoman.jpg&sa=X&ei=_Mi3T9nFHMetgwfhlPGtCg&ved=0CAkQ8wc&usg=AFQjCNFBNqSL8KCH4Oxr9XdQrJ_fwWLtmA" width="320" /></a></div>
Hi everyone,<br />
<br />
I had an interesting cross-cultural hair experience the other day. My Momma (yes! visiting from Florida) and I were shopping in the mall when we decided to peruse a new store, Lush Cosmetics. The store's brand is based on homemade, natural products so I wanted to check it out. I went in and admired the soap bomb fizzes (wonderful smells!) and then noticed that Lush carried hair products. I asked a saleswoman if they carried products that might work on hair textures like mine. She said they did and showed me a leave-in-conditioner called "R&B" (Click <a href="http://www.lushusa.com/R-B/03080,en_US,pd.html?start=1&cgid=hair-treatments">Here</a> for a link to the product). Here's a description of the product:<br />
<a href="http://demandware.edgesuite.net/sits_pod18/dw/image/v2/AAHL_PRD/on/demandware.static/Sites-Lush-Site/Sites-lushcosmetics-export/en_US/v1337374649878/images/product/03080.jpg?sw=350&sh=350" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://demandware.edgesuite.net/sits_pod18/dw/image/v2/AAHL_PRD/on/demandware.static/Sites-Lush-Site/Sites-lushcosmetics-export/en_US/v1337374649878/images/product/03080.jpg?sw=350&sh=350" width="320" /></a><br />
"<i>Enjoy some of our smooth R & B hair stylings to control your frizzy, flyaway hair. An instant best-seller, our easy-to-use “hair finisher” uses softening ingredients of organic avocado butter, oatmeal, olive oil, extra virgin coconut oil, jojoba oil and candelilla wax because they are extremely effective for conditioning the hair and scalp. Three of our UK shop managers came up with R & B to revive and balance their wayward follicles. It works well with African American or curly hair because it conditions with a lot of moisture. And once you smell the seductive orange blossom and jasmine fragrance, your hair will truly get its groove back.</i>"<br />
<br />
Wow, I was sold! Well, at least I wanted to try the sample. However, I had no idea that Lush takes its customer service so seriously. What happened next was the first such cross-cultural hair experience I've ever had. The White saleswoman dipped her fingers in the R&B, massaged her hands together and reached for my hair. My eyes grew large and I thought, "Wait, is she about to DO my hair?"<br />
<br />
<br />topiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12981039926077521964noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8086222144066438296.post-62379037323307173042012-05-14T22:02:00.002-04:002012-05-14T22:04:25.700-04:00Do organizations have the right to regulate employee hair styles?Hello everyone,<br />
<br />
Today I came across an interesting article by Erik Kambel "Black French Flight Attendant Forced to Hide Dreadlocks Under Wig" Click <a href="http://www.dominionofnewyork.com/2012/05/14/black-french-flight-attendant-forced-to-hide-dreadlocks-under-wig/">Here</a> for the article. According to <i>Dominion of New York</i>'s article, the Black French flight attendant may not wear his dreadlocks while working, he must wear a wig. <br />
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<a href="http://www.dominionofnewyork.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/dreads_airfrance.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="160" src="http://www.dominionofnewyork.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/dreads_airfrance.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Photo of Aboubakar Traore, flight attendant required to wear wig to cover his dreadlocks. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Image found at <a href="http://dominionofnewyork.com/">dominionofnewyork.com</a>. </span></div>
<br />
But, this rule only applies to men. Women are allowed to wear dreadlocks because the company seems to recognize that hair can be connected to a woman's identity. Hmm, what about men? <br />
<br />
What do you all think: do organizations have a right to regulate hair styles? Should there be certain boundaries to such hair-regulating rules? Please chime in!<br />
<br />
Thanks!<br />
<br />
Tinatopiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12981039926077521964noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8086222144066438296.post-53557623701425913242012-05-11T17:45:00.003-04:002012-05-11T17:56:48.972-04:00Wash and Go Hair- Eco Styler Gel and Kinky Curly ProductsHi everyone,<br />
<br />
My Eco-styler gel, Denman Brush style lasted for four days. Here are the results:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_4GRJApzMMVE_YiehvOCCcNpfNtIa5BthE8DdGFpK5j72dcEi7WE0nnG23qp78z3kGrvvYC3yRtYUhCg8fBlKHNuMga8HgN7uhSxi0y4w3m5oA9n6vetuHoHsRMFsmMVqhJqzUV2agu8/s1600/Tina+Eco+Styler+Denman+Brush+on+Blow+Dried+Hair.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_4GRJApzMMVE_YiehvOCCcNpfNtIa5BthE8DdGFpK5j72dcEi7WE0nnG23qp78z3kGrvvYC3yRtYUhCg8fBlKHNuMga8HgN7uhSxi0y4w3m5oA9n6vetuHoHsRMFsmMVqhJqzUV2agu8/s320/Tina+Eco+Styler+Denman+Brush+on+Blow+Dried+Hair.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<br />
Pros: This style lasted for several days and was super cute (well, it grew on me. At first, I was not feeling it). Also, my curls clumped together more perhaps leading to a bit more curl definition. Cons: it took TOO long to blow dry my hair, then apply gel, then brush it through only to end up with the same amount of shrinkage (for me, too long is an hour, plus, I'd rather find a style that doesn't require much if any heat); crunchy, crunchy, crunchy! After a few days, gel residue started to show. <br />
<br />
So, this morning I washed my hair and tried Kinky Curly Knot Today and Curling Custard on my wet, freshly pre-pooed hair without a brush. Here are the results:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigbDavTEuB-ZtSXXXbCtFJXAYg0RdmP94aw8uyyL3LeR5HGxmLOjHRXNwhMBn9XxmkCBjL7T_3VxfZQ0U5UcO9yi0M47tRMzUlXdixNFmPR3FBkuAiVrmqIZ_q1_F3QmqVJ7mT6eKiDBc/s1600/Tina+Opie-+Kinky+Curly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigbDavTEuB-ZtSXXXbCtFJXAYg0RdmP94aw8uyyL3LeR5HGxmLOjHRXNwhMBn9XxmkCBjL7T_3VxfZQ0U5UcO9yi0M47tRMzUlXdixNFmPR3FBkuAiVrmqIZ_q1_F3QmqVJ7mT6eKiDBc/s320/Tina+Opie-+Kinky+Curly.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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I LOVE it and this took about 20 minutes to do. I could definitely do this on a daily basis BUT this style should last at least two to three days! Whew-hew! I did have to use my diffuser because I had an appointment and there was visible product in my hair. Next time, I'll do my hair with more lead time so that it can fully air dry. Plus, I'll use less product!<br />
<br />
Thanks and this hair journey is getting REALLY fun! I love the experimenting! I'm starting to understand my hair and OWN it. I am truly recognizing that it doesn't have to take a ton of time, money or product to bring out the beauty of afro-textured hair. I'm also learning to accept and embrace my kinky texture. Hallelujah! Stay tuned for an upcoming video blog about this latter topic (yes, I'm venturing into vlogging, pray for me!). :)topiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12981039926077521964noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8086222144066438296.post-47646484800068693722012-05-08T22:04:00.001-04:002012-05-08T22:08:17.751-04:00Embrace your gray hair!Hi everyone,<br />
<br />
As I perused the headlines for interesting discussions about hair, I came across the headline "Gray Hair Celebrated in New Exhibit". YAAYYYY! I for one adore gray hair, better said, silver hair. Men and women blessed with such manes look like silver foxes. They typically have a certain regality, a beauty that has been EARNED. So, I am thrilled that the Buck Institut<span id="goog_1596368690"></span><span id="goog_1596368691"></span><a href="http://www.blogger.com/"></a>e for Research on Aging in Novato, CA (ww.buckinstitute.org) is exhibiting photos that depict women sporting their natural silver hair. The <i>Huffington Post</i> wrote an article about the exhibit: <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/05/08/gray-hair-silver-vicki-topaz-buck-institute_n_1490866.html#s=more224721">Huffington Post article about "SILVER: A State of Mind"</a>. <br />
<br />
I got my first silver hair in my early teens. I plucked it out and taped it into a keepsake book (I believe I still have it somewhere...so much for keepsakes, I need to do a better job of keeping track of them!) I loved my silver hair because it connected me to my Father. He too had a patch of silver hair right in the front of his head and, really, nowhere else (he now shaves his head bald so I don't get to see the patch of silver anymore). I guess it was in my genes because I too developed a splash of silver in the same spot; you may have noticed my splash of silver in pictures. My Mother has beautiful silver hair. She's been stopped by strangers who compliment her on her beautiful, silver tresses. <br />
<br />
I can thank both of my parents for my healthy attitude about graying hair. When I used to dye my locs, I specifically requested that they section of my silver hair so that it wouldn't be scathed by the dye. The silver patch had sort of become a unique trait and I didn't want dye to make me blend in with everyone else. My patch has spread and I have silver hairs throughout my hair. I still wear them with pride, in fact, I feel that my silver hair reflects wisdom that the Lord has given me (Proverbs 16:31). It's something to be embraced in my opinion.<br />
<br />
That's why I never quite understand it when aging people try to cover up the inevitable procession of life. We are ALL going to get older (if we're blessed to live long enough). Why is there such an effort to erase signs of aging, especially when it comes to graying hair? I think one reason is that graying hair is symbolic of our mortality. Our hair, like changing colors of foliage, represents a change of seasons. I believe that some fear this change and so they clutch to youthful memories of times when hair was not gray. What do you think?<br />
<br />
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<a href="http://www.bergen.folkebibl.no/arkiv/grieg/fotografi/stor_nina_portrett_1934.jpg.0" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www.bergen.folkebibl.no/arkiv/grieg/fotografi/stor_nina_portrett_1934.jpg.0" width="223" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.bergen.folkebibl.no/arkiv/grieg/fotografi/stor_nina_portrett_1934.jpg.0">Portrait of Nina Grieg, ca 1934; image owned by the University of Bergen</a><br />
<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nina_Grieg">Brief Information on Ms. Grieg</a></div>topiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12981039926077521964noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8086222144066438296.post-92174176404020391412012-04-28T18:52:00.000-04:002012-04-28T18:52:47.440-04:00Leave in Conditioner For Moisturized, Maintained Hair!Hello everyone,<br />
<br />
I'm heading out solo tonight to a college dance ensemble performance and I decided to do a twist out. What can I say? I LOVE IT! I have a recent Twitter conversation to thank for the moisturized, highly defined do. During the conversation, a kind woman asked me if I was using leave in conditioner (LIC). Sometimes, right when I wash it. But, I realized that I NEVER use LIC to maintain my styles. Hmm. I decided to add it to my routine. This time around, I wanted elongated curls so once I washed my hair, I blew it dry. Then, I used my normal Doris New York products to do my twist-out (I've blogged about this before, let me know if you want more details) PLUS I added LIC. I left the twists in for a few days and then loosened them to reveal beautiful, bouncing curls. Honestly, those curls usually last for a few days and then I end up with dry hair. The solution for me!? At night, I've been showering my hair UNCOVERED allowing the steam to mist my hair. After getting out of the shower, I apply a mixture of DNY LIC and coconut oil. I then retwist my hair and leave it twisted for a few days. I may also spritz my hair with water during this time. This evening I untwisted my hair after trying my new routine (I coated my fingers with grapeseed oil to take out the twists. I've found that some kind of light oil on my fingers minimizes frizz and enhances curl definition). Let me know what you think of the results. I LOVE IT. Plus, my hair feels like silk. I hope this helps you. What do you do to maintain your hair and keep it moisturized?<br />
<br />
The picture at the top shows my new twistout. Below, is a pic of my twistout in 9/11. Wow, it's growing! <br />
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Thanks!<br />
Tina<br />
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Twist out 4/12 </div>
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Twist out 9/11</div>
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<br />topiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12981039926077521964noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8086222144066438296.post-22586784991418727032012-04-25T22:31:00.000-04:002012-04-25T22:31:15.119-04:00Natural hair meet-ups provide strength in numbersHello everyone,<br />
<br />
I haven't yet planned a natural hair meet-up, but this article about a Detroit Meet-up brought a beaming smile to my face: <a href="http://www.detroitnews.com/article/20120422/OPINION03/204220311/Naturally-Flyy-Detroit-sisters-celebrate-rocking-hair-natural-?odyssey=tab%7Ctopnews%7Ctext%7CFRONTPAGE">http://www.detroitnews.com/article/20120422/OPINION03/204220311/Naturally-Flyy-Detroit-sisters-celebrate-rocking-hair-natural-?odyssey=tab%7Ctopnews%7Ctext%7CFRONTPAGE</a>.<br />
<br />
It is amazing to me to see the freedom, beauty and grace that can all come from wearing your natural hair. Embrace yourself!<br />
<br />
Tinatopiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12981039926077521964noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8086222144066438296.post-3638420656877289432012-04-23T12:36:00.001-04:002012-04-23T12:39:29.927-04:00Talking to myself about my hair<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-cikELK622l14zWdmeYS8dbDIRUBAGnTp6MUiCaTgT7NRnq8jNgGDVJmWanfCXjmcjHJoTJfw4g3nDUiTPsd_Y3pBZ5woRa7HOr-IcBY0IP_iWqv7TOJdX2Ev_613VXr4SGYaJmbbDV4/s1600/Talking+to+myself.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-cikELK622l14zWdmeYS8dbDIRUBAGnTp6MUiCaTgT7NRnq8jNgGDVJmWanfCXjmcjHJoTJfw4g3nDUiTPsd_Y3pBZ5woRa7HOr-IcBY0IP_iWqv7TOJdX2Ev_613VXr4SGYaJmbbDV4/s320/Talking+to+myself.JPG" width="240" /></a>Hello everyone,<br />
<br />
Now that I've recovered from my hilariously bad hair day, I thought I'd reflect a bit on the internal process I went through as I "talked" to myself.<br />
<br />
First, I realize that I don't have the type of hair that will clump into curls. I can use a million conditioners, tons of oil, super moisturizing shampoos and it won't matter. My hair will still amass into a clump of cotton. That's it, no more no less. <br />
<br />
Second, I don't particularly like cotton as hair. <br />
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Third, I'm working on WHY I don't like cotton as hair. I know that I've been conditioned to think that silky hair is prettier than cottony hair. I study identity so I know that issues of race, power and status influence my thinking. I'm still thinking that way though.<br />
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Fourth, I'm dealing with the fact that I sometimes find my hair downright difficult. When I'm combing it and it's snapping, popping and flying in all directions I feel a bit...cursed. That's terrible to say but those are the ratlike thoughts scurrying about in my mind.<br />
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Fifth, I am incredibly proud of myself for publicly stripping myself down in this way and conversing about such an important topic. I've had so many people confide that they struggle with hair and identity. Let's keep the conversation going and work toward full self-acceptance.<br />
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Hugs,<br />
<br />
Tinatopiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12981039926077521964noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8086222144066438296.post-42028903428204275042012-04-16T20:28:00.013-04:002012-04-17T13:37:07.498-04:00Bad attitude to go with my bad hair day<div><span style="font-size: 100%; ">Hi everyone,</span></div><div><div><br /></div><div>Today I am just going to put it out there. I had a horrible hair day and I let it put me in a bad mood. I washed and deep conditioned my hair the other day. For some crack-high reason, I thought I'd awaken with curly ringlets. Instead, I woke up with Brillo hard, prickly twine sticking out of my head. Don't believe me? This pic should back me up.</div></div><div><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjSJZ4AQL7KZEoXMur4MgUzI7IVlJj5CXfOjsGMcehSldSTNEkfepo6eE8Ca1zTO58rYis1X3d-VoIrEay_oyK-M8fJ2ZGtPD1wrLP-gfZU5pATtNP8cjPoIb7_hznVkIknqv3zzwUE4A/s1600/Tina-+Bad+hair+day-+photo+%252816%2529.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjSJZ4AQL7KZEoXMur4MgUzI7IVlJj5CXfOjsGMcehSldSTNEkfepo6eE8Ca1zTO58rYis1X3d-VoIrEay_oyK-M8fJ2ZGtPD1wrLP-gfZU5pATtNP8cjPoIb7_hznVkIknqv3zzwUE4A/s400/Tina-+Bad+hair+day-+photo+%252816%2529.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5732424263878393570" /></a><br /><span><span style="font-size: 100%;">I know, I know I need to stop trippin' and embrace everything about my natural hair. Well guess what? Sometimes I just want my hair to do what the heck I tell it to: sit still, lay down, curl up, flatten out. I got so nervy, I even rolled my eyes at God , "Thanks a lot for THIS gift Jesus".</span></span><br /><br /><span><span style="font-size: 100%;">Have you ever had a bad hair day? Please share your stories. </span></span>topiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12981039926077521964noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8086222144066438296.post-52565236295327038952012-04-13T21:18:00.007-04:002012-04-13T21:31:05.501-04:00Luxurious self-treatment<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJsO980z7eCZF-vL62wFJ4ydduDwgWqDYjVWrdlW-xWlZuBUBVSgFUDDGFa5TJ33CZNKFNr1ehPTwH20FEuel0QpKr6Wv_12xXuJikUedW9CBKylfPn_HnGwE24abLf9C3YwBFBy6-kyc/s1600/Black-Women-Spa-300x278.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 278px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJsO980z7eCZF-vL62wFJ4ydduDwgWqDYjVWrdlW-xWlZuBUBVSgFUDDGFa5TJ33CZNKFNr1ehPTwH20FEuel0QpKr6Wv_12xXuJikUedW9CBKylfPn_HnGwE24abLf9C3YwBFBy6-kyc/s400/Black-Women-Spa-300x278.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5731062813105518370" /></a><br />Hello everyone,<div><br /></div><div>I am really working on improving my self-care. Yesterday, I had a counselling session then I had a fabulous massage. Oh my goodness! I was floating on air. Later on in the day, I hit the gym and treated myself to sushi. Then, I treated myself (yes, I treated myself more than once, that's a BIG DEAL for me!) to some new running gear (I started jogging through Black Girls Run and I love it!) In other words, I had a day long date with MYSELF! I showered myself with attention, loving, healthy attention. The love fest continued today: I<span style="font-size: 100%; "> cleared my schedule: no meetings, research ALL DAY! Whew-hew. Plus, I went to work in my new running gear so that I'd be prepared for my evening run. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: 100%; "><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: 100%; ">Once I got home tonight, I washed my hair, took a bubble bath and </span><span style="font-size: 100%; ">I'm now sitting with conditioner in my hair. I plan to sleep in it overnight. Do any of you do that? I can't wait to see what my hair will feel like in the morning. </span></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Here's to treating ourselves! :)</div><div><br /></div><div>Image found at: beautifulbrowngirls.com</div>topiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12981039926077521964noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8086222144066438296.post-8637708497095622682012-03-29T09:45:00.006-04:002012-03-29T09:57:37.132-04:00An afro in the White House?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigQkikXr3QWAb0OYr4Lsz99P97TrHGI3Lk_ndnf4XJV0EnfmWsPFiVLo6qQIIsd7srCbGqNQUgo6cAnb_ZxYw_ca6BOip8WLbLJzWljeEm4sWBIczaVNcdZ24u6eQ_Avyrrz1iYzKkdk8/s1600/Michelle+Obama+Natural-400.jpg" style="font-style: normal; "><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigQkikXr3QWAb0OYr4Lsz99P97TrHGI3Lk_ndnf4XJV0EnfmWsPFiVLo6qQIIsd7srCbGqNQUgo6cAnb_ZxYw_ca6BOip8WLbLJzWljeEm4sWBIczaVNcdZ24u6eQ_Avyrrz1iYzKkdk8/s400/Michelle+Obama+Natural-400.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5725316554272634210" /></a><br />Hello everyone,<div style="font-style: normal; "><br /></div><div>A week or so ago, a manipulated photo displayed First Lady Michelle Obama rocking a curly, bouncy fro. I loved the look but doubted that it was real. It turns out that the image was in fact doctored (the hair belongs to none other than the fabulous Mae of Naturalchica.com and <span style="font-style: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; line-height: 24px; text-align: center; font-size: 100%; ">Nikkimae2003)</span><span style="font-size: 100%; ">. Many outlets discussed it, see below for a few examples:</span></div><div><ul><li><a href="http://jezebel.com/5895697/if-michelle-obama-had-natural-hair" style="font-size: 100%; ">http://jezebel.com/5895697/if-michelle-obama-had-natural-hair</a><span style="font-size: 100%; ">, </span></li><li><a href="http://www.thegrio.com/specials/life-and-style/photoshopped-image-created-to-show-michelle-obama-with-natural-hair.php" style="font-size: 100%; ">http://www.thegrio.com/specials/life-and-style/photoshopped-image-created-to-show-michelle-obama-with-natural-hair.php</a></li><li><a href="http://www.curlynikki.com/2012/03/michelle-obamas-natural-hair.html" style="font-size: 100%; ">http://www.curlynikki.com/2012/03/michelle-obamas-natural-hair.html</a><span style="font-size: 100%; ">,</span></li><li><a href="http://www.essence.com/2012/03/22/michelle-obama-natural-hair-natural-chica-nikki-mae-photoshopped-image/" style="font-size: 100%; ">http://www.essence.com/2012/03/22/michelle-obama-natural-hair-natural-chica-nikki-mae-photoshopped-image/</a></li><li><a href="http://www.womanist-musings.com/2012/03/could-michelle-obama-wear-her-hair.html">http://www.womanist-musings.com/2012/03/could-michelle-obama-wear-her-hair.html</a></li></ul></div><div style="font-style: normal; "><br /></div><div style="font-style: normal; "><span style="font-size: 100%; ">According to The Root.com (</span><a href="http://www.theroot.com/views/singleminded-first-ladys-hair" style="font-size: 100%; ">http://www.theroot.com/views/singleminded-first-ladys-hair</a>), there was a passionate response to the picture of the First Lady's hair. What do you think? Would you like to see the First Lady sporting an afro in the White House? Why or why not?</div><div style="font-style: normal; "><br /></div><div style="font-style: normal; ">Image found at: <a href="http://www.theroot.com/views/singleminded-first-ladys-hair" style="font-size: 100%; ">http://www.theroot.com/views/singleminded-first-ladys-hair</a>.</div>topiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12981039926077521964noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8086222144066438296.post-74446435397979886942012-03-22T19:54:00.006-04:002012-03-22T20:08:49.441-04:00Goopy hair<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSGOF0uiWW6BfGMlpwES2nI2si7vz9-PItXP286puyNMTbx37I0gTcZ2-JvP_-maf-59x3tg1drZ2yIQdlI5VebjGs2jzXxIYd4MkZE-q6yLFr2uXa0bO5ZA_roYc3yjX4ycl7eSaNTQs/s1600/Goop+in+hair.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 313px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSGOF0uiWW6BfGMlpwES2nI2si7vz9-PItXP286puyNMTbx37I0gTcZ2-JvP_-maf-59x3tg1drZ2yIQdlI5VebjGs2jzXxIYd4MkZE-q6yLFr2uXa0bO5ZA_roYc3yjX4ycl7eSaNTQs/s400/Goop+in+hair.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5722877642721666722" /></a><br />Hello everyone,<div><br /></div><div>Today, I had my first physical therapy appointment for a shoulder injury. I washed my hair just prior to the appointment and used Kinky Curly (I use this when I do a wash and go). My hair was still wet when I arrived for the appointment. No big deal, right? WRONG!!! First, I had to lay (lie?) down on a white terry cloth towel. Ugh...all I could envision was bits of white lint in my fro. AND, even more embarrassing: globs of hair product on the towel when I lifted up my head for all to see. Fortunately, neither the lint nor the globs appeared. Whew, crisis averted. Or so I thought. <span style="font-size: 100%; ">I had no idea what was about to unfold. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: 100%; "><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: 100%; ">My therapist, Tom, had me sit up and then said something like, "Okay, now I'm going to do some compression. I'm going to put my hands in your hair and press down on your head and hold it"...SAY WHAT!!??? You're going to put your hands in my hair? I said out loud, "Black women and their hair!". Yes I did! I then told him that my hair was freshly washed and it had product in it. I don't think he believed me but once he finished pressing down, he immediately reached for a towel to wipe off his hands. OMG! I was mortified. All I need is for this man I just met to think that my hair is goopy, dirty, unclean. Wait, why do I care? My hair is certainly clean, he's done this before and it's no big deal. Wow, I think I assumed that he'd never touched Black hair before and I didn't want him to think that all of it was "goopy". Was I some type of standard bearer or something? That is just too much pressure. So, I told him about my blog, that I'd be blogging about the experience and kept it moving. Just another day in the life. </span></div><div><span style="font-size: 100%; "><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: 100%; ">Image found at: </span><a href="http://sewcakemake.blogspot.com/2011_03_01_archive.html" style="font-size: 100%; ">http://sewcakemake.blogspot.com/2011_03_01_archive.html</a></div><div><span style="font-size: 100%; "><br /></span></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>topiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12981039926077521964noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8086222144066438296.post-38481798000711235652012-03-19T18:58:00.004-04:002012-03-19T19:52:52.140-04:00Trayvon Martin<span style="font-size: 100%; line-height: normal; " >Hi everyone,</span><div style="font-size: 100%; line-height: normal; "><span ><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: normal; "><span ><span><span style="font-size: 100%;">As you know, this is a blog about hair and identity, but today, I am so sad that I HAVE to write about the murder of Trayvon Martin.</span> </span><span style="background-color: rgb(237, 239, 244); line-height: 200%; ">I've had a heavy heart about Trayvon Martin's murder since I heard about it. I think a large part of my sadness is that my white friends have not seemed to be FBing, Tweeting or discussing this. That deeply saddens me because I feel so alon</span><span class="textexposedshow" style="background-color: rgb(237, 239, 244); line-height: 200%; ">e. Such racism will not end until ALL of us speak out against it. This can't just come from Black people...this is about JUSTICE. I'm thinking that it very well could have been my son in a few years. In fact, when I showed my son Trayvon's picture, my son said, "Mommy, he looks like me". My parents live less than 60 minutes from Sanford and we walk around their gated community at all time's of the day/night taking full advantage of the community center and pool. Michael Skolnik really hits the ball out of the park with this article. I beg you white people, be up in arms about this. If you care about me, please care about Trayvon Martin. He IS me.</span></span></div>topiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12981039926077521964noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8086222144066438296.post-89798169009952530122012-03-15T17:24:00.003-04:002012-03-15T17:30:57.873-04:00Naptural85's Top 10 Tips on Growing Long, Healthy, Natural Hair<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYk-VDp67N1cJ6jIh6BIZvj8wYPQ8zJV33MaNoQA0rHkUKTW4iQCvHaDAeZ4XaCKtLiLZ5RLHBvG8x52bi6rp1YZ1Jvqq_LA-1-3XKTW1dLqxq0k6ANXxlyqRDFAv6HdaL4qOnhYacs4A/s1600/Naptural85.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 350px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYk-VDp67N1cJ6jIh6BIZvj8wYPQ8zJV33MaNoQA0rHkUKTW4iQCvHaDAeZ4XaCKtLiLZ5RLHBvG8x52bi6rp1YZ1Jvqq_LA-1-3XKTW1dLqxq0k6ANXxlyqRDFAv6HdaL4qOnhYacs4A/s400/Naptural85.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5720239305655048322" /></a><br />Hello everyone,<div><br /></div><div>I've entered my grading vortex so today's post is rather short. I'm providing a link to Naptural85's top 10 tips on growing long, healthy natural hair (<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l7ouKM2v6Uc&feature=colike" style="font-size: 100%; ">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l7ouKM2v6Uc&feature=colike</a>). I absolutely love her laid back vibe and authenticity! Here is a link to her website: <a href="http://www.naptural85.com/" style="font-size: 100%; ">http://www.naptural85.com/</a>.</div><div><br /></div><div>Here is a list of the ten tips for those who'd prefer not to watch the entire video (though I encourage you to watch it because her commentary is insightful). Plus, as you can see from the pic, her hair is GORGEOUS!! So, evidence suggests that she knows what she's talking about, at least what works for her! </div><div><br /></div><div><p class="MsoNormal"></p><ol><li><span style="font-size: 100%; ">Moisturize.</span><span style="font-size: 100%; "> </span></li><li><span style="font-size: 100%; ">Trim your hair when necessary.</span></li><li><span style="font-size: 100%; ">Don’t overshampoo.</span><span style="font-size: 100%; "> </span><span style="font-size: 100%; ">Co-washing is great (she buys 3 bottles of conditioner for every 1 bottle of </span><span style="font-size: 100%; "> </span><span style="font-size: 100%; ">shampoo)</span></li><li><span style="font-size: 100%; ">Low manipulation styling, be careful of your edges, loosely style your hair when possible</span></li><li><span style="font-size: 100%; ">Protective styling, especially when your hair feels particularly dry (Naptural85 has a blog post on this)</span></li><li><span style="font-size: 100%; ">Don’t do your hair when you’re stressed out, angry, etc.</span></li><li><span style="font-size: 100%; ">Be mindful of your hair accessories</span></li><li><span style="font-size: 100%; ">Avoid brushes and combs if possible; when you do use them, use wide-toothed combs and wider set brushes when possible; use finger-detangling</span></li><li><span style="font-size: 100%; ">You are what you eat, eat healthy food</span></li><li><span style="font-size: 100%; ">It’s not a sprint, it’s a marathon</span></li></ol><div>Image found at: http://www.google.com/url?source=imglanding&ct=img&q=https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-ClhtayUZq6Lor3VKi3s_QvopIMGG0LJyBiLeIdXJx_SUIeAL93-BDKV4E0eR-Iph42m7zcjYmbxiZ1tI64rhtK-FzVGUZrC5fzUJ3DiqF4z0WapYbk7m5Kf8NshsXR-41Ao94Sf3kfpc/s1600/210815_103906373026300_103009129782691_36726_4405733_o.jpg&sa=X&ei=815iT8nvN6j40gHr2aCYCA&ved=0CAkQ8wc&usg=AFQjCNE5tw5gNVGBxeKuELG6o4CO09z5_w</div><o:p></o:p><p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p></div>topiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12981039926077521964noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8086222144066438296.post-79503029386639605872012-03-11T20:22:00.009-04:002012-03-11T20:34:02.056-04:00Natural Hair in Corporate America<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOWO97cDS-5jOmTuzs9YQJs6XB9cHBdsae3ukEb8Kx-eYqfmWpvH45zJJcuEH-YlnQcBwbzaZ_A__JT5iqI5dZkbuzFjdxHxlhwDZ5ActOJ-pv-X6_ZvfZaJTSbGf68hAMGutFlgTpYPE/s1600/monae.jpg" style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; "><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 250px; height: 375px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOWO97cDS-5jOmTuzs9YQJs6XB9cHBdsae3ukEb8Kx-eYqfmWpvH45zJJcuEH-YlnQcBwbzaZ_A__JT5iqI5dZkbuzFjdxHxlhwDZ5ActOJ-pv-X6_ZvfZaJTSbGf68hAMGutFlgTpYPE/s400/monae.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5718801987840545538" /></a><span><br /><span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span>Hi everyone,</span></span></span><div style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span><br /></span></div><div style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span>I recently read a CNN Wire article (<a href="http://www.12newsnow.com/story/17126872/rareview-going-natural-in-corporate-america">http://www.12newsnow.com/story/17126872/rareview-going-natural-in-corporate-america</a>) <span>that begins: </span></span></div><div style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span><br /></span></div><div style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span><span style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-align: -webkit-auto; ">"</span><span style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-align: -webkit-auto; ">Her black, female, co-workers pressured her to re-consider, but Ivy Grant, an associate partner in a marketing consulting firm decided to make the transition from her processed straight hair, to her naturally textured hair twelve years ago, and has no regrets.</span></span></div><p orgfont="" style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin-top: 12px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 12px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span>"Everyone has this fear that you're not going to be accepted in the work place with this kind of hair," Grant said referring to her curly afro."</span></p><p orgfont="" style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin-top: 12px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 12px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span style="text-align: left; ">The article, "Rareview: Going Natural in America by Claudia Morales really hits home for me. When I interview women about their hair, a consistent theme they share is the fear of going natural at work. I am thrilled that more women (and maybe, hopefully, more corporations?) are realizing that natural hair is a viable option. What do you think? Would your organization accept natural hair? If not, would you still wear your natural hair?</span></p><p orgfont="" style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin-top: 12px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 12px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; text-align: -webkit-auto; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span style="text-align: left; "><br /></span></p><p orgfont="" style="text-align: left; margin-top: 12px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 12px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span><span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; ">Image of Janelle Monae found at: </span><span>http://www.google.com/url?source=imglanding&ct=img&q=http://witchesbrewonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/monae.jpg&sa=X&ei=j0NdT7a2Muna0QHCzemaDw&ved=0CAkQ8wc&usg=AFQjCNGkY2Z7Zc_bRHraTAt9hugO8qIHng</span></span></p>topiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12981039926077521964noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8086222144066438296.post-52530290893530324332012-03-08T17:10:00.006-05:002012-03-08T17:15:39.006-05:00How I moisturized my twist out!<div>Hi everyone,<div><br /></div><div>I am getting bolder in my older age. I decided to wet my twist out in the shower this morning because I wanted to see what would happen. Let me clarify, actually, I steamed my hair in the shower, wet my hands and then ran my wet hands through my hair. I did not drench my hair. </div><div><br /></div><div>I then vigorously rubbed my hair in a circular fashion with the palms of my hands (I've seen people do this with boar bristle brushes and it led to perfectly shaped coils, I just wanted to see if it would make my coils pop out a bit...it did!). Once I got out of the shower, I applied a dab of Doris New York Olive Oil to my hair and followed that with coconut oil (I rubbed it between my hands to emulsify it) and grapefruit essential oil (just for smell, not as a sealant). I then fluffed it out and here is the result:</div></div><div><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7jK4SRjtw58KBgWLLw6t0IRUP-VO0bq-pH4N6fesHz4O8O3ESR2ZnFiTiSWWTydkcZandVK3YS46jAn7-CAUGh_U7RkyDbk7-TrgCDosJ7DrWX4J01p50k4CBAXelY5jcDXXmu4BxGxg/s1600/photo+%252814%2529.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7jK4SRjtw58KBgWLLw6t0IRUP-VO0bq-pH4N6fesHz4O8O3ESR2ZnFiTiSWWTydkcZandVK3YS46jAn7-CAUGh_U7RkyDbk7-TrgCDosJ7DrWX4J01p50k4CBAXelY5jcDXXmu4BxGxg/s400/photo+%252814%2529.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5717652645328101010" /></a><br />I absolutely love it! Plus, my hair feels soft. This is definitely a style I'll keep in my arsenal.<br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>topiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12981039926077521964noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8086222144066438296.post-25610698031296508442012-03-05T08:54:00.012-05:002012-03-05T09:15:20.197-05:00Hair History<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjgnk1B2ZVlW6ugp3E0ISVWejkkEMTVgdjSpXfXGk6mOSULpMwX0vQoEbXFHgLiI2tCo9LqJeJvskeuqTbjaehdQuK4OCc2S2UBPqrCMRgrhkNyNMt3UOJrcyLy0Q9Bht97tBJj2R_aB0/s1600/PyramidHairstyle.jpg" style="font-style: normal; font-size: 100%; "><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 274px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjgnk1B2ZVlW6ugp3E0ISVWejkkEMTVgdjSpXfXGk6mOSULpMwX0vQoEbXFHgLiI2tCo9LqJeJvskeuqTbjaehdQuK4OCc2S2UBPqrCMRgrhkNyNMt3UOJrcyLy0Q9Bht97tBJj2R_aB0/s400/PyramidHairstyle.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5716415032508476770" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhutnhMXFLNWJpvC4CFHE400SwWkHjoje7PFewwIwzXgvQW5TtAFO_k5nW9hyyBgwTBnckhh-vsdE8GfP4im53rxsCTGCzy8SIs5qKIpq8Ijt55t_Py_nlfQ2r_dJVWFsmWQOyCjiykdE/s1600/historical+african+style+AAM.jpg" style="font-style: normal; font-size: 100%; "><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhutnhMXFLNWJpvC4CFHE400SwWkHjoje7PFewwIwzXgvQW5TtAFO_k5nW9hyyBgwTBnckhh-vsdE8GfP4im53rxsCTGCzy8SIs5qKIpq8Ijt55t_Py_nlfQ2r_dJVWFsmWQOyCjiykdE/s400/historical+african+style+AAM.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5716414974216061346" /></a><br /><div style="font-style: normal; font-size: 100%; text-align: left; "><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; ">Hello everyone, I just returned home from a mini-research trip to Washington DC where I had the pleasure of visiting the Library of Congress and the Smithsonian's African Art Museum. I did not have the chance to visit the Smithsonian's Anacostia Community Museum to attend </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; ">Head's Up, an event on hair and culture </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; ">(see a <i>Washington Post</i> article about the event here: </span><a href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/arts-post/post/smithsonians-the-will-to-adorn-black-hair-and-cultural-identity/2012/03/02/gIQAHrPUnR_blog.html" style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; ">http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/arts-post/post/smithsonians-the-will-to-adorn-black-hair-and-cultural-identity/2012/03/02/gIQAHrPUnR_blog.html</a><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; ">). Honestly, I didn't learn about it until today (aarrghh, a day too late!).</span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-style: normal; "><span style="font-size: 100%; "><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-style: normal; "><span style="font-size: 100%; ">When reviewing the article, I am struck by the sheer beauty and diversity of hair styles available to those of African descent. I am also struck by the timelessness of the styles. See the similarity between the above two pictures?</span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-style: normal; "><span style="font-size: 100%; "><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-style: normal; "><span style="font-size: 100%; ">As I walked through the exhibits in the African Art Museum, browsed through articles in the Library of Congress and gazed at artistry masked as hairstyles on DC streets, I felt an immense sense of pride. I also felt a deeper connection to history and an appreciation for the way that my hair links me to a great and historical past.</span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-style: normal; "><br /></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-style: normal; "><span ><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><ol><li><span >Top picture taken from the <i>Washington Post</i> article.</span></li><li style="font-style: normal; "><span >Bottom picture taken by the author at the Smithsonian's African Art Museum (3/12)</span></li></ol></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-style: normal; "><br /></div>topiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12981039926077521964noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8086222144066438296.post-54413542413438338492012-02-26T19:21:00.003-05:002012-02-26T19:23:41.366-05:00Viola Davis Stuns on the Oscar Red Carpet<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCXVa8RrVoZD3njwMvLK5zHwFV_Z0qx1Z9Un8UqzuVDSoxT78isIkes9gnE-WppxqScNy7cN6KCfBqTHp4mLnPvgxJgBcnBZiod7lbQ82qcy3xBrU9eofTGfEYKLcz6P0Rgx93G-1g6ZY/s1600/Viola+Davis-+Oscar+stunner.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 286px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCXVa8RrVoZD3njwMvLK5zHwFV_Z0qx1Z9Un8UqzuVDSoxT78isIkes9gnE-WppxqScNy7cN6KCfBqTHp4mLnPvgxJgBcnBZiod7lbQ82qcy3xBrU9eofTGfEYKLcz6P0Rgx93G-1g6ZY/s400/Viola+Davis-+Oscar+stunner.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713604334129277842" /></a><br />Hello everyone,<div><br /></div><div>I am simply blown away by the gorgeous Viola Davis at the Oscars. Hurray to her for putting aside the wigs, weaves and sporting her natural hair. No, I'm not saying that wigs and weaves are bad. I am saying that I think Ms. Davis' natural hair is simply elegant, stunning and unique on the red carpet. I am ecstatic and hoping she wins the Oscar!</div><div><br /></div><div>Whew-hew!!</div><div><br /></div><div>Tina</div><div><br /></div><div>Image found at: <a href="http://www.chicagotribune.com/entertainment/movies/oscars/chi-oscars-academy-awards-main-20120223,0,1626683.story" style="font-size: 100%; ">http://www.chicagotribune.com/entertainment/movies/oscars/chi-oscars-academy-awards-main-20120223,0,1626683.story</a></div>topiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12981039926077521964noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8086222144066438296.post-58115647185733610472012-02-24T20:12:00.004-05:002012-02-24T20:19:25.243-05:00Nicole Ari Parker Introduces Save Your Do Gym Wrap! Time to Hit the Gym with a Vengeance!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnWU4xbC_F9DNr_NhK620Z17KoItWJj-7-mIhcwQnki0I02RYKpN2wxV95mgyWlmGRUMNddQreLTbnJycoYhmmP78t2m8c_UAds_pznLMkK0LijAW-wv0EW2VN_Ps03wC58yPGfZewRXQ/s1600/saveyourdo_front_back.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 115px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnWU4xbC_F9DNr_NhK620Z17KoItWJj-7-mIhcwQnki0I02RYKpN2wxV95mgyWlmGRUMNddQreLTbnJycoYhmmP78t2m8c_UAds_pznLMkK0LijAW-wv0EW2VN_Ps03wC58yPGfZewRXQ/s400/saveyourdo_front_back.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5712876521466160674" /></a><br />Hi everyone,<div><br /></div><div>I LOVE the idea behind Nicole Ari Parker's Save your Do Gym Wrap! <a href="http://saveyourdo.com/" style="font-size: 100%; ">http://saveyourdo.com/</a></div><div><span style="font-size: 100%; "><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: 100%; ">The product seems to directly address some women's complaints that they don't workout because it will mess up their hair. The Save your Do Gym Wrap is one of those ideas that makes me think, "MAN!! Why didn't I think of that?!" Kudos to Ms. Parker for thinking of it and bringing it to fruition! I need to buy one (or several) ASAP. Has anyone tried it yet?</span></div><div><span style="font-size: 100%; "><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: 100%; ">Image found at </span><span style="font-size: 100%; "> </span><a href="http://saveyourdo.com/" style="font-size: 100%; ">http://saveyourdo.com/</a></div><br class="Apple-interchange-newline"><div><br /></div>topiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12981039926077521964noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8086222144066438296.post-46905358909014550092012-02-22T11:09:00.005-05:002012-02-22T11:31:50.678-05:00Gray hair chic? Daphne Guinness' gray locks revered<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1rXeLWugLWY2O0qMdgD-xYocZG_SKy2ohlflG8TYz8vcrBOp2zG856pMODuPCy0WDwy22FUDEjIaSWL8HLnc6aKUDWZMv9CX-eAGe-8wWS9CZ0uIiHDFORLbn9wC6Kjm7CWOYG03iJic/s1600/Daphne+Guinness-+502130084.png"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1rXeLWugLWY2O0qMdgD-xYocZG_SKy2ohlflG8TYz8vcrBOp2zG856pMODuPCy0WDwy22FUDEjIaSWL8HLnc6aKUDWZMv9CX-eAGe-8wWS9CZ0uIiHDFORLbn9wC6Kjm7CWOYG03iJic/s400/Daphne+Guinness-+502130084.png" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5711998254467384034" /></a><br />Hi everyone,<div style="font-style: normal; "><br /></div><div>Hair coloring is big business! Mintel's 2005 <i>Hair Coloring Repor</i>t estimates that the U.S. hair coloring market is $1billion - I couldn't find world figures...hmm, perhaps that's an entrepreneurial venture waiting to happen. Jump on it! :)</div><div><br /></div><div>I've heard many people talk about how they HAVE to color their hair. They refuse to be mousy brown, dull blonde or boring black. Instead, they want vibrant, youthful color! Which brings me to the discussion of gray hair. According to some, having gray hair is even worse than having dull hair. </div><div><br /></div><div> Thus, I was surprised to find this article: <a href="http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/46479961/ns/today-style/#.T0UTI4ePluo" style="font-size: 100%; ">http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/46479961/ns/today-style/#.T0UTI4ePluo</a>. <span style="font-size: 100%; ">The article, "Granny chic? Going gray is a hot new hair trend" chronicles the rising chic of gray hair. Thanks in part to movies like "Marie Antoinette" (</span><a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0422720/" style="font-size: 100%; ">http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0422720/</a><span style="font-size: 100%; ">) </span><span style="font-size: 100%; ">and social maven Daphne Guinness (</span><a href="http://daphneguinness.tumblr.com/" style="font-size: 100%; ">http://daphneguinness.tumblr.com/</a><span style="font-size: 100%; ">)*, gray hair is being voluntarily donned! In fact, some women are COLORING their hair gray.</span></div><div><span style="font-size: 100%; "><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: 100%; ">What do you think, is this a fad or do you think it will have staying power. Would you color your hair gray? </span></div><div><span style="font-size: 100%; "><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: 100%; ">Daphne Guinness image found at: </span><a href="https://twitter.com/#!/TheRealDaphne/media/slideshow?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftwitpic.com%2F8aye1w" style="font-size: 100%; ">https://twitter.com/#!/TheRealDaphne/media/slideshow?url=http%3A%2F%2Ftwitpic.com%2F8aye1w</a></div><div><br /></div><div>*The tumblr site is an homage to Daphne Guinness. To contact her, she can be reached via her twitter page referenced above.</div>topiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12981039926077521964noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8086222144066438296.post-82317092385084657552012-02-21T17:42:00.005-05:002012-02-21T17:50:10.608-05:00"In our Heads About Our Hair" a new documentary is out!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCTjGMwC2SDZIUcjiXJDJL7dfyyCaMArVQ0l6Pf5cteBY7fhStJzX2Blh-kSnxrbwz-omGrZhHAoJX1IHI9v5AWocXnKfqkNgbDDU5WbP8b6S1CyrK_sOsostP8erIUh6L1ydujaLC1vg/s1600/In+our+heads+about+our+hair-+headofhair.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 281px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCTjGMwC2SDZIUcjiXJDJL7dfyyCaMArVQ0l6Pf5cteBY7fhStJzX2Blh-kSnxrbwz-omGrZhHAoJX1IHI9v5AWocXnKfqkNgbDDU5WbP8b6S1CyrK_sOsostP8erIUh6L1ydujaLC1vg/s400/In+our+heads+about+our+hair-+headofhair.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5711724741299859154" /></a><br /><span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; ">Hello everyone,</span><div style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span ><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto; "><span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; ">Anu Prestonia (of Khamit Kinks acclaim! </span><a href="http://khamitkinks.com/" style="text-align: left; ">http://khamitkinks.com/</a><span >), <span style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); line-height: 18px; ">Maitefa Angaza and Paulette Maat Kesa Tabb have co-produced a film entitled, "In Our Heads About our Hair" from Hemamset Angaza on Vimeo (</span></span><span ><span style="line-height: 18px;">http://vimeo.com/user3996039). The documentary explores the relationship between Black women and our hair, specifically examining how hair may affect self-esteem.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto; "><span ><span style="line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto; "><span ><span style="line-height: 18px;">The producers are careful to mention that this film was not in response to Chris Rock's "Good Hair". In fact, the documentary was started before Mr. Rock's movie was released and the documentary covers different ground than Mr. Rock's film. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto; "><span ><span style="line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto; "><span ><span style="line-height: 18px;">I am excited to see it and, if you're in the NY area, please let me know if you get a chance to view the documentary!</span></span></div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto; "><span ><span style="line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto; "><span ><span style="line-height: 18px;">Thanks!</span></span></div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto; "><span ><span style="line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: -webkit-auto; "><span ><span ><span style="line-height: 18px;">Image found at: </span></span><span style="text-align: left; line-height: 18px;"><span >http://www.google.com/url?source=imglanding&ct=img&q=http://www.indiewire.com/static/dims4/INDIEWIRE/f9f6e20/4102462740/thumbnail/680x478/http://d1oi7t5trwfj5d.cloudfront.net/4f/596c3042e511e197b6123138165f92/file/headofhair.jpg&sa=X&ei=IB9ET8ajKsf30gH-54naBw&ved=0CAkQ8wc&usg=AFQjCNFbVLpdiVkNHQxkWFEeLxwv4PQCdA</span></span></span></div>topiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12981039926077521964noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8086222144066438296.post-64297186998255438012012-02-20T20:48:00.004-05:002012-02-21T07:48:53.391-05:00UPDATE: Hair growth--> Foam rollers<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-W0mDN3C3eLQvSymBVgptKEgprKZp1f2CtWhbRh9BtWEH-CiGOknRKQTEwHDfTk8UT4o7MNcz0haUgxfdea5IccxKIRwsO7H7fWCojLOCI0J56VTHRFtiDsiOE5opfvRBPSRQ7rMysWg/s1600/Tina-+RESULTS+foam+roller.jpg" style="font-style: normal; "><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-W0mDN3C3eLQvSymBVgptKEgprKZp1f2CtWhbRh9BtWEH-CiGOknRKQTEwHDfTk8UT4o7MNcz0haUgxfdea5IccxKIRwsO7H7fWCojLOCI0J56VTHRFtiDsiOE5opfvRBPSRQ7rMysWg/s400/Tina-+RESULTS+foam+roller.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5711569542493452130" /></a><div style="text-align: center; "><span style="font-size: 100%; "><i>I LOVE the results of rolling my double-strand twists!</i></span></div><div style="font-style: normal; text-align: center; "><span style="font-size: 100%; "><br /></span></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSyiTuowMYNTqeIZ6l_01w0lf9NWyRmdu1ipnIulH7A_1gHnEOWj-JBQ-v_RBvL8r_6rH7ZVZNLfQyw4i9nQDuppHy2B-LuNkxIK6-hSg4_oPXnCD5ozWm0naQoc7yye0JITCZFlTvxR4/s1600/Tina+Foam+Rollers.jpg" style="font-style: normal; "><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSyiTuowMYNTqeIZ6l_01w0lf9NWyRmdu1ipnIulH7A_1gHnEOWj-JBQ-v_RBvL8r_6rH7ZVZNLfQyw4i9nQDuppHy2B-LuNkxIK6-hSg4_oPXnCD5ozWm0naQoc7yye0JITCZFlTvxR4/s400/Tina+Foam+Rollers.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5711400255459821746" /></a><div style="text-align: center; "><i>Hmm, what will my hair look like in the morning after using foam rollers?</i></div><div style="font-style: normal; "><br />My hair is growing by leaps and bounds. So much so that my double-strand twists are starting to sprout out in some...interesting ways. Soooooo, I bought some good old fashioned foam rollers and rolled my twists. I'll be sure to post a pic tomorrow! I love the opportunity to explore my hair!<div><br /></div><div>Tina</div><div><br /></div><div>P.S.: I got lazy and only used end wraps on some of the rollers. I know, I know, it's better for your hair when you use end wraps on foam rollers. Forgive me. </div></div>topiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12981039926077521964noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8086222144066438296.post-53954074228698576422012-02-20T18:46:00.006-05:002012-02-24T20:03:16.997-05:00Hair Relaxer --> Uterine Fibroids??? (I know, I was shocked at the possibility too!)<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8c3ObHOHPenQ_6-AG0puNERUSD7A_D1-KDSb7-wsgW5WrEEGRi1OY0CLstoRPXUmQ6h29oySgh7tY7fRfpkhZZdo3uv4h39ORhdvZ5-vDTX5RfJotsoDUTxIX2B24eYTpAwcYufijPNI/s1600/No+relaxer.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8c3ObHOHPenQ_6-AG0puNERUSD7A_D1-KDSb7-wsgW5WrEEGRi1OY0CLstoRPXUmQ6h29oySgh7tY7fRfpkhZZdo3uv4h39ORhdvZ5-vDTX5RfJotsoDUTxIX2B24eYTpAwcYufijPNI/s400/No+relaxer.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5711374540109512690" /></a><br /><span style="font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; ">Hi everyone,</span><div style="font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-style: normal; "><span><br /></span></div><div><span>It's one thing when you hear about somebody's cousin who got scalp burns from a "bad" relaxer. This sounds like an isolated incident where someone improperly used the relaxer. However, it's quite another situation when the <i style="font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; ">American Journal of Epidemiology</i>, a peer-reviewed journal published by Oxford Press, publishes an article describing a longitudinal study (participants were followed over time) in which evidence suggests that hair relaxer use increases the risk of <span style="font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); line-height: 17px; ">uterine leiomyomata (i.e., uterine fibroids). </span> WHATTTTTT???!!!! </span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>Reputable medical resources (e.g., the Mayo Clinic </span><a href="http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/uterine-fibroids/DS00078/DSECTION=risk-factors">http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/uterine-fibroids/DS00078/DSECTION=risk-factors</a> and the Department of Health and Human Services Office on Women <a href="http://www.womenshealth.gov/publications/our-publications/fact-sheet/uterine-fibroids.cfm#f">http://www.womenshealth.gov/publications/our-publications/fact-sheet/uterine-fibroids.cfm#f</a>) indicate that Black women have an increased risk of uterine fibroids. WHAT IF HAIR RELAXERS HAVE SOMETHING TO DO WITH THIS INCREASED RISK?</div><div><span style="font-family: 'times new roman'; "><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'times new roman'; ">Something to REALLY make us think if that fly, convenient and straight hairstyle is worth it. On top of that, we perm young girls' hair?! Wow, I think we need to investigate and do better! </span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>Here's a link to the abstract (<a href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22234483" style="font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; ">http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22234483</a>) and I've also copied it below. Please let me know what you think. </span></div><div style="font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-style: normal; "><span><br /></span></div><div><h3 style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; line-height: 17px; color: rgb(152, 87, 53); background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span>Abstract</span></h3><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; line-height: 17px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span><span class="highlight" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; ">Hair</span> relaxers are used by millions of black women, possibly exposing them to various chemicals through scalp lesions and burns. In the Black Women's Health Study, the authors assessed <span class="highlight" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; ">hair</span> <span class="highlight" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; ">relaxer</span> use in relation to uterine leiomyomata incidence. In 1997, participants reported on <span class="highlight" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; ">hair</span><span class="highlight" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; ">relaxer</span> use (age at first use, frequency, duration, number of burns, and type of formulation). From 1997 to 2009, 23,580 premenopausal women were followed for incident uterine leiomyomata. Multivariable Cox regression was used to estimate incidence rate ratios and 95% confidence intervals. During 199,991 person-years, 7,146 cases of uterine leiomyomata were reported as confirmed by ultrasound (n = 4,630) or surgery (n = 2,516). The incidence rate ratio comparing ever with never use of relaxers was 1.17 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.06, 1.30). Positive trends were observed for frequency of use (P(trend) < 0.001), duration of use (P(trend) = 0.015), and number of burns (P(trend) < 0.001). Among long-term users (≥10 years), the incidence rate ratios for frequency of use categories 3-4, 5-6, and ≥7 versus 1-2 times/year were 1.04 (95% CI: 0.92, 1.19), 1.12 (95% CI: 0.99, 1.27), and 1.15 (95% CI: 1.01, 1.31), respectively (P(trend) = 0.002). Risk was unrelated to age at first use or type of formulation. These findings raise the hypothesis that <span class="highlight" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; ">hair</span> <span class="highlight" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; ">relaxer</span> use increases uterine leiomyomata risk.</span></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; line-height: 17px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span><br /></span></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; border-image: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font: inherit; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span style="line-height: 17px; ">Image found at: </span><span><span style="line-height: 17px;">http://www.google.com/url?source=imglanding&ct=img&q=http://cynthiaswilliams.files.wordpress.com/2012/02/relaxer.jpg&sa=X&ei=kuBCT6a8MMr20gG0nKzGBw&ved=0CAoQ8wc&usg=AFQjCNHEgnlrqOEKjbYi8dFYDipzh652PA</span></span></p></div>topiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12981039926077521964noreply@blogger.com10