it's all about you, but BETTER!

JOIN AZARA @......

2011-04-05T15:07:00.000-07:00

I am Co-Blogging at: www.myHairmyBeauty.wordpress.com For everything relating to BLACK HAIR, BEAUTY AND SKINCARE CONCERNS!!! Feel free to leave your comments and questions! In the words of Wendy Williams, how u doing? :)

What's HOT! and What's NEW!- All about EYES

2010-03-09T08:46:00.000-08:00

hEY guys, so seems I need to start doing some promo for this blog, don't even know if anyone still passes it by. lol.

So I did some shopping lately and came upon some awesome beauty finds that I thought I share.

1. CONCEALER: Now I don't know that many black women that use concealers but I am addicted to them! there is no better way to make your eyes POP! than to dab some concealer on it. Finding the right shade is tricky so I was very skeptical when I heard that Naomi Campbell was a big fan of YSL's Touche eclat. (because I thought it was for white people :)

Of course being the Beauty addict I was, I decided to purchase it and try it for myself and guess what?? I ABSOLUTELY LOVE IT!!! of course you have to be careful not to USE too much because then you get these patch of whiteness underneath you eyes.

But the unique thing about the Touche eclat is that it bounces off natural light, (don't know how they figured that out) and last all day (well most of it!)

me likes!!

If you think concealer does not do ish, check these pictures out and tell me what you think.

2) MASCARA:

So ever since I "almost" lost my God-given lashes over some poorly done eyelash extension application, I've become uber obsessed with Mascaras!! and I swear by these. What I do is I apply the white part first, let it dry, recoat, let dry then paint over with the black part. The white part is the extending part, adds thickness and length to your lashes. And the coolest thing is that when you wash them off, it looks like little lashes are coming off your lashes, lol, but its all faux of course so no need to worry! Both Mascaras are L'oreal

3) EYELASHES- speaking of lashes, I had a chance to try these and I absolutely LOVE LOVE LOVE them! They come in natural/believeable lengths, easy to apply and don't make you look like a Crazy Clown.

From the talented makeup artist Lola Maja, SacredLashes, are the here!!

Picture, courtesy of Ms. Maja's facebook.

BACK IN 2010: reVAMPED and reADY to GO!

2010-03-04T02:55:00.000-08:00

HELLO! HELLO! HELLO!

after an (OVERDUE) absence, I am returning back to BLOGGING!!!! YAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Life Update: So, I am now in Nigeria, working as a Hair/Beauty/Fashion Journalist, so that basically means I have NO life, lol.

anywhos, but I've been around the (industry) block for a while now, so I'll keep you updated on what's HAPPENING!!

ALSO..................................................................................

I'll be doing a REVAMP of the blog, adding some BEAUTY news and a bit of FASHION! but it's very much still about HAIR!!!

so SIT back and ENJOY the NEW - hairbyAZARA-

;)

HAIR DIVA: Kerry Washington

2009-03-25T02:50:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend I watched I think I LOVE my Wife, and could not help but admire Kerry Washington's simple but yet stylish hair througout the movie.

It's easy to love Kerry's style because it is:

1. Do-able

2. Easily managed

3. Chic, and always exciting!

To ACHIEVE KERRY'S HEALTHY MANE:

One tip from Marie Claire Magazine regarding Kerry's hair is that, to enhance one's natural Hair Color, try John Frieda Luminous Color Glaze ($9.99) At home.

and...

be sure to Treat hair once a week with a deep conditioner like Paul Mitchell Super Strong Treatment ($15.99) or Nexxus Emergencée ($15).

CHECKOUT the following KERRY looks, from DAY to NIGHT!

DAY

SEMI-CASUAL LOOK

NIGHT-OUT

NewDO.

2009-03-18T12:17:00.000-07:00

So I decided to DITCH the ultraFAB LONG-A-licious wavy locs for something..simple and sassy....

and I was INSPIRED by......

...so..........did I get it????

If bad WEAVES could talk......

2009-03-17T08:20:00.001-07:00

courtesy of YBF

????????

Hair today.....MORE tomorrow!!

2009-03-13T03:31:00.000-07:00

Hey bloggers wats new?
so I made a giant mistake of doing this stupid long weave dat I could not even maintain for 2wks. I don't even know what possessed me, I simply saw my pack of 22 inch weave and decided to give it a GO.....IN this BLOODY NIGERIAN HEAT!! needless to say, I rarely had my hair down, instead it was always in some POCAHONTAS type braid that irritated my BF...lol

well enough of that ish.....infact..NEVER!! will I do that again, I guess I will just wait till I get to Jand/Yankee to pull that stunt again.

I guess I was channel-ling Li-Lo? someone please remind me am not OYIBO and tht there is a limit to all this extension thing..

anyways..

am getting my HAIR DID this WEEKEND and ME SOOOOOO EXCITED!!! I love getting my hair did, it's sooooo therauptic, like a CLEANSING or a RENEWAL......ya...maybe it's just me ;)

speakin of new HAIR-DOs.

why is everyone on BLOGsVILLE hating on Xtina Millian's HAIR?? am I the only ONE that likes IT???? I think it's FIERCE!!!! I mean in my creed of HAIR-DOing, one must do a LOOK that's different from his/her Norm every once in a WHILE, right??

Tell me u don't LOVE it? I dunno, I like how RADICAL it is!! I just hope it does not fall out...cuz all that peroxide................. WOW.

speaking of more NEW dos....(sorry I might be late on this one) but..

Call me crzy but I don't like BANGS on Ms.Kardashian, she's too pretty to be covering Half her face.

WHAT do you make of FERGIE's dark side? me....I dunnoo...I actually feel nothing for this look.

and....

Finally!! Katie Holmes has her long locs BACK (at least for a while).

-Cuz I was not feeling that soccer-mom thingy she had going on.

and speaking of Fierceness....

Do I have to give u more reasons why I love EVE.

creed no.7 of one's HAIR-DOing....One must always have FUN with one's HAIR-DO!!!

Keeping it SIMPLE.

2009-02-26T05:23:00.000-08:00

Bloggers how u dey? am so sorry it seems like I've abandoned my blog but I've not. Anyways, I don't want to make any excuses so I will just get on with the blogging.

What's new?

Well ALOT!

sO lET's see, First of all I have been going through a simply phase where I just want to always have my HAIR in a BUN. Maybe its the Nigerian weather, but regardless of what it is, I personally think that there is nothing sexier than a Nice, slicked back hair do, ....sooooooo CHIC! and another thing, depending on the occasion you can either dress it up real fancy? or create a Bo-Ho look by having it slightly messy.

What you NEED:

An Old toothbrush (to get all the baby hair, and stubborn hair)

Hair Pins.

Am not a BIG FAN of GEL since it cuts ur HAIR (well it cuts mine) so I use BEESWAX, except I try not to brush the hair so much when I put on the Beeswax, so I don't damage my hair.

Or If Beeswax is not ur thing, u can try Pomade, for that extra Hold.

....and of course a RubberBand.

STYLE IDEAS

EVENING LOOK:

So simple yet soo CHIC, luv it!

Hate the MAKEUP but the Ponytail is not that bad, esp. if you're like me and u LOVE DRAMATIC hair :)

This look can be created by using a braided Extension and tying around the gathered bun.

Casual Look:

Feeling a Tad Bit Dramatic? you can go for this:

.......However, there is such a thing as TOO-MUCH of a Good thing, Hence:

A tad bit too DRAMATIC for me.

HAPPY BELATED NEW YEARS!!!

2009-01-18T05:16:00.000-08:00

Hi Bloggers, HAPPY belated NEW YEARS!!

well let's get down to hair business...

Looking to change up your look for less? why not try a Stitch-n-Go wig by Beverly Johnson? not only is this a fast weave method, but it's no hassle and will last for at least 2wks. If you don't want to commit to full weaves and ur in btween, then this is def. a way to go! You can purchase them online or at ur local store. Below is Beverly Johnson's stitch-n-go Noel for $39.99

As a way to celebrate 2008, I'll be doing a countdown of some of my favorite hair looks. The pictures are a courtesy of each individual's facebooks ;)

PART 1.

*Straight.

*Curly

*Short Hair-do

Looking for Salons in LAGOS?

* Bobby's Signature 34 Bode Thomas, Surulere, Lagos. Tel: 0802 2238042

* The Nail Studio- 9 Bishop Aboyade Cole St, V.I. Tel: 01 - 2691462

*Venivici (Spa + HairSalon) - Plot 146a Ligali Ayorinde off Ajose Adeogun, V.I. Tel: Tel: 01-270 5453

*Make-Me Beauty Place- 60 Bode Thomas st. Surulere, Lagos, nigeria. 01 812809, 0803 326 4217.

Are you in Nigeria, and are lookin to buy QUALITY Brazilian & Indian Hair? CALL IRO with 08074813607.

HELLLLLLOOOOOOOOO AGAIN!!!!!!! greetings from CAMP

2008-12-18T15:09:00.000-08:00

HI BLOGGERS!!! its been ages, I feel so BAD because I have neglected my blog but more importantly u GUYS!!!

am soo sorrryyyy but duty called and I had to answer (*cough* NYSC *cough* lol). anyways I will resume blogging fulltime, come January, and I have alot to BLOGGGGGGGGGGGGG ABOUT!!

so, THERE IS SOOOO MUCH HAPPENING IN THE WORLD OF HAIRRR in Nigeria!! where do I even begin?

1. Cool salons like MAKE ME, BOBBY, SLEEK......

2. if you are looking for the best in synthetic hair be sure to try X-PRESSIONS, and for Human HAIR, def. go SLEEK.

3. LACE WIGS are everywhere!! LOL

4. for TOP NOTCH hair weave be sure to checkout HAIR DIVA in Lagos

*anyways bloggers I promise to fully return after the holidays with more hairstyles, haircare and hair gossip (lol..yes ohhh, lol)

a GIFT FROM NYSC CAMP:)

- I tell u, when it comes to HAIRSTYLES, nigerians go ABOVE and BEYOND the call of duty, how COOL is this?? and this only took 2 HOURSSSS!!!

P.S if you have any questions concerning haircare, products, styles please be sure to email me with HAIRBYAZARA@YAHOO.COM, not the gmail account. Am sorry for any emails that have not been answered and this is due to my faulty GMAIL ACCOUNT so please use the YAHOO one. THanks :)

Thanks, MERRY CHRISTMAS and a HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

AZARA.

ur HAIR-COLOR ur PERSONALITY

2008-10-20T04:45:00.000-07:00

QUIZ!!

WHAT IS YOUR HAIRCOLOR PERSONALITY
-courtesy of Sophisticates Black Hair.

Which of the following describes your personality?
A. I am energetic and bubbly! I’m up for anything at any time.
B. I’m a very friendly person, but I’m a little bit sassy, too. Watch out!
C. I’m very grounded and stable. Don’t get me wrong- I like to have fun, but I always remember to reign it in before things get out of control.
D. I’ve been told that I’m sophisticated and refined. And though I do love drama, I won’t blow things out of proportion.

Which best describes your role in a GROUP setting?
A. I love the limelight
B. You won’t forget about me, I don’t hesitate to make my opinions known
C. I’m not a wallflower but in a group conversation I just like to sit back and listen.
D. I’ll give my opinion if I feel strongly about it. I don’t always say much, but when I do, it’s worth listening to.

Which best describes your style of dress?
A. My clothes are what you might call “free-spirited”
B. More earth tones, beiges and chocolate browns and shimmering golds. I DON’T DO PURPLE AND PINKS
C. I have clothes that are every color of the rainbow-from bright pinks to sunny yellows.
D. I go from urban glam to a more sophisticated style; it varies

How would you describe your career?
A. Like every aspect of my life, my career is unique and very creative.
B. Non-traditional, NO 9-5 FOR ME.
C. Professional setting, I deal with the public, business casual.
D. Ms. CEO, I am the boss of my domain.

What’s the biggest risk you’ve ever taken?
A. When I decided to change my career, spur of the moment, and I’ve never regretted it.
B. Bungee-Jumping.
C. Switched lunch order from Caesar salad to asian chicken salad.
D. Negotiated with my boss to get a raise.

How often are you visiting a SALON?
A. Love going to the salon, go once a week.
B. My stylist and I are best friends, and are always experimenting with new looks.
C. I am lax when it comes to takin care of my hair
D. I go to the salon regularly for new and FUNKY hair dos

How would u rate your confidence level?
A. I know I can tackle whatever comes my way, BRING it on WORLD.
B. I’m very confident, depending on the day.
C. I do have insecurities, but I am comfortable with the way I look and feel about myself
D. I have a quiet confidence, I’m not standing on rooftops bragging about myself. I am not completely withdrawn and self conscious.

RESULTS

- iF You answered......

mostly A’s your mane color is BLONDE: very sensous and sexy. A high-profile look.

mostly B’S you mane color is RED: very bold and adventurous.

mostly C’s your mane color is BRUNETTE: wants to have fun but look professional. High powered career woman

mostly D’S your mane color is BLACK: very regal, strong personality. She’s in control of things and still classy.

YOUR HAIR CARE

Is your Hair shedding more than you like?
Then you need to use a shampoo and conditioner that contains VITAMIN E. or Use a VITAMIN E. oil treatment after. Vitamin E helps in strengthening your hair. A really good product is Soft & Beautiful moisturizing complex that is great for dry hair and alleviating it from shedding. It is also very important to TRIM hair every 6 weeks as to prevent split ends.
Looking for a way to have shiny hair without dripping with Oil?
Try Motions at Home salon sheen, Oil sheen, and conditioning spray which is silicone based and makes hair shiny and easy to comb.

Experiencing Hair-Loss?
Hair-lossed is often most caused by lack of blood circulation due to a constant tuggin and pullin of hair. Remember to losen hairstyles and massage the scalp area to increase blood circulation

Looking for quality Hair products?
Be on the look out for panthenol: which is a vitamin B complex factor that has been shown to add strength and body to the air. Also if you have Natural hair be sure to look out for products with Shea butter, as they contain a lot of moisturing ingredient.

Using the same shampoo and conditioner for more than a YEAR?
It is important to switch your conditioner and shampoo every 6 months, because continuous use of these products can cause your hair to build up residue leaving it limp and dry.

KNOTTED up by your natural hair?
Then use a leave-in conditioner. Spray on hair till damp and then gently brush from tip to roots. Applying a leave-in conditioner between shampoos makes combing easier and reduces shedding and hair breakage.

Blogs and Websites.

2008-10-17T04:11:00.000-07:00

Hello guys! I don't know if some of u know but I also write a blog called Q-essential woman, but I will be closing that now to focus on contributing to the BELLANAIJA.COM website, but I still will be on the Hairbyazara.blogspot.com full time with on my Hair info and tips. With that said, here are some interesting Blogs and websites I came across:

WWW.BELLANAIJA.COM

www.back4gud.blogspot.com

http://genevievemagazineng.com

www.afrobella.blogspot.com

http://www.naturallysexy.co.uk/

For more HAIR INFO: email me at Hairbyazara@gmail.com or Hairbyazara@yahoo.com

Natural Hair and Keri H.

2008-10-12T06:49:00.000-07:00

10 Tips for Caring for your Natural Hair.

-Courtesy of Braids and Beauty magazine

1. Apply a moisturizing conditioner by massaging the product into the hair, smoothing the cuticle along the hair shaft. Cover the hair with a plastic cap and allow the conditioner to activate for at least 15 minutes. For deeper conditioning sit under a hooded dryer set on warm (not hot) for ten minutes. Rinse, dry and style the hair

2. CHAMOMILE can brighten and soften oily hair. Preferably use a satin scarf to cover the hair at bedtime.

3. Remember TOO MUCH STRESS can weaken the hair, causing it to break more.

4. Curl your hair without chemicals by using STRAW-SETS
Apply setting lotion and wrap small sections of the hair around a drinkin straw. Smaller hair sections equal tighter curls.
After drying the hair under a hooded dryer, gently unwrap it from the straws. Oil the curls and roll out with more “spring” in ur hair.

5. Use ALCHOL-FREE products to maintain shiny, healthy hair. For frizz-free curls, maximum volume and body use a diffuser with your blow dryer, set at its lowest temperature and speed.

6. Treat your hair to a HOT-OIL treatment twice a month.

7. you can ROD SET your braids fro more texture and volume. Apply oil sheen to brighten the look and finger-comb the curls to style

8. DETANGLE your hair with a LARGE-tooth comb.

9. You can now LOCK and TWIST your hail with ORGANIC root stimulator’s locs and twist gel, it holds and moisturizes naturally.
COCONUT MILK, SUCROSE and SOYBEAN work together to give you twists that stay put and moisture that doesn’t fade. Enjoy great styling without flakes and hardness from alcohol and synthetic products.

10. Maintaing a healthy diet for a HEALTHY hair, meaning, including proteins and vitamins to your diet.

HAIR TO WATCH!!

I was watching Channel O and saw Keri Hilson's new (don't know how long its been out there) music video "ENERGY". I absolutely LOVE her hair, very ORIGINAL, very CUTE and Sassy. This gurl is def. a HAIR DIVA to watch!!

LOVE HER DO'

So at the Launching of the 2nd edition of the Nigerian Music Video Awards (NMVA) I came across this gurl with a really cool Hair-cut (more like a Hair weave cut) and decided to take a pic of her, she only agreed to do it if I hid her face, but anyways want to do u think? Def. a upgrade from the usual RIHANNA hair-do I see everywhere. (My gawd can people give that style a rest?)

Hair Magazines

2008-10-07T03:18:00.000-07:00

Hey guys, I've gotten a couple of emails asking me about Hair mags and wat not, well here are a couple that I am addicted:

Along with HYPE HAIR MAGAZINE (not featured)

************************************************************************************

TIPS

Looking for great Synthetic braiding hair? CheckOUt Bobbi Boss Braids:

Not exactly sure what extention will help u create a certain look? check out this guide from Braids magazine.

For more questions contact me: Hairbyazara@gmail.com

HAIR JACKED!!!!!!!

2008-10-07T03:09:00.000-07:00

As I blog this am at working lookin at my back every five minutes to make sure that my "FRENEMY" cannot read this ish...

so guess wat,

So like I have this friend at work, or so I thought, who when I first met her had the ubiqutous "RIHANNA" do right? and it was like Jet BLACK, so me on the other hand was rocking my signature color 4/27 braids, and so a friendship was born right...we went on assignments together, covered stories together, gisted about some of the pervs in this office...u know basically become like "works sisters". So anyways, I noticed last week she kept asking me, oh wat kind of extensions did u use? where did u get ur hair did? and my own braids are long and she was like, how can u stand LONG braids, isn't it annoying? oh my goodness I can't do long braids,...blah, blah, blah, anyways...

so yesterday morning, while I was typing away at my desk, in comes this EFFIN HEFA with my EFFIN HAIR-DO....exact HAIR-DO!!! I was effin HAIR JACKED IN BROAD DAYLIGHT!!!

Exact 4/27, Exact 18 inches, Exact extensions EVERYTHING!!!!

am sorry I am not one of those gurls that likes to do the same hair with everyone, forgive me but I like to look a tad bit different, but my work buddy torned out to be a BACKSTABBIN hefa that stole my hair-style, what next my IDENTITY????

lol, I just had to get that off my chest!

HAIR ENVY!!!!!! arrrrgggghhhh!!!!

2008-09-30T04:57:00.000-07:00

Hey bloggers how is it going? so anyways yesterday I did something I have been dreading to do and that was going to the hair salon. Now you might ask why a hair enthusiast like myself would hate goin to the Hair salon, well that is because I am afraid of people judging me because of my shitty hair.
well....my hair is not that bad, its just that, I cut it myself (big mistake, but that was the only way I could comb it) so I have this un-even hair. And also Hair salons in Nigeria, is not the same with those in America for several reasons:
1. You will run into someone u know that u really don't want to talk to but they want to talk to u.
2. Everyone in the salon has opinion about the hair-style ur doing ( last time a woman at the salon told me not to do this curly hairstyle because I would be fired from my job, like she knew were I worked)
3. When u have shitty hair like I did that day ur stylists lets u know..."Madam u no get hair for front" like I didn't know I was baldin by the side...or my all time favorite, "madam this hair (as she points at ur hair) is not relaxed, it won't look fine". That brings me to another point, when did Natural hair become the ANTITHESIS of naija hair stylist...(stylist not braiders).

Anyways, as u can see I have my reasons to justify my hate for Hair salons. But as my favorite hair lady decided to have a life, I was left with no choice but to go to the salon and get my month old braids out..(remember they're like $15).

Anyways as I walked in and made my way through the eyes that were checkin out everything I had on from head to toe, my heart was beating because I would soon remove my wig and everyone will see what I had underneath. But luckily for me that day, I had to wait for a while so no one was lookin as I quickly pulled the wig off and painfully brushed out my fro.

But I was shocked to see how healthy and strong EVERY WOMAN's hair (at that salon dat day) was, I mean I was expectin to see some real freaky hair show, u know really bad unhealthy hair that u see at some salons, but no. Everyone had hair coming out from their "forehead" to their "back" I mean, don't these people braid their hair? doesn't it CUT? where are the reciding or invisbile hair-line? am I the only person with shitty hair thanks to yrs of CONSTANT WEAVE, BRAIDS, RELAXERS!!!

is it in the food? the weather? WHAT? what are some nigerian women putting on their hair to make it HEALTHY AND STRONG!!! please tell me my heart is breaking of HAIR ENVY!!!

$15 braids. $30 weaves

2008-09-25T16:54:00.000-07:00

I know those prices are ridiculous for braids and weaves but not in Nigeria. One of my favorite things about being back home is how CHEAP and AFFORDABLE it is to do your hair, that is why most women change their hair-styles TWICE a month on average.

In my earlier "post" I talked about getting my hair done in the "tree-braid" or "fish-bone (nigeria)" style. The style is basically a mix of corn-row, and crotchet braiding, but instead of puttin the extensions in, like u would with crotchet, u just braid it in. So let's get to the fun part,

Cost of hair extensions (synthetic):

550 Naira = (roughly) $5.50

Cost of getting hair braided:

2000 Naira = (roughly) $20

all together= (roughly) $25.50 for BRAIDS (price can be cheaper depending on who u find, but always remember to tip well :) that would cost me $100 or + by my professional hair stylist (and mind u she's my homegurl..lol)

so yes, am quite HAPPY to be HOME :) now if only I can find something positive to say about the Lagos Traffic.

******************************

Newest Obssession: BOHO braids.

Def. a way to SPRUCE up ur Hairstyle.

How to: Simply corn-row, or if u cannot corn-row, braid a single strand of hair in front and pin it along the sides of ur hair.

**************************

HOT MESS of the DAY: Fantasia

Honey, if ur hair color can be found in a crayola box, then it's got to GO!!!

WIG PARTY!!!!! NAIJA!!!

2008-09-23T08:42:00.000-07:00

Hey bloggers, it's been a while I know... I understand, boy do I have alot to blog about. but most importantly I just want to send out this message about a WIG party about to go down next weekend in Lagos. If you're in NAIJA def. come out and see

(Courtesy of Bobby Taylor PR)

HAIR BEAUTIFUL: Introduces Lagos’ First International Wig PartyEver wanted hair like Mary J. Blige, Beyonce Knowles, Tyra Banks and the whole lot of them?Attend Hair Beautiful's Lace Front Wig Party on October 5th and you will learn the secrets to the art of the Lace Front Wig.Hair Beautiful is an international hair company owned by Ireti Dada. Hair Beautiful will be launching its first ever Wig Party in Lagos Nigeria on the 5th of October at Eko Hotel & Suites in Victoria Island from 12 noon – 8pm.The wig party will be the first of its kind in Lagos, giving women the opportunity to learn more about Lace Front Units, purchase units, ask questions and socialize.Lace Front Units: are hair extensions that create the illusion that hair is growing out of ones scalp and therefore is one of the most naturally looking extensions on the market.In the words of Ireti Dada “come to our wig party and learn all about it, you probably would never wear a weave again.”Come and experience quality hair, Remy Human Hair, Brazilian Hair, Malaysian Hair and more.There will be a varied selection of Lace Units, accessories and Hand Tied Wefts to purchase. For those of you ready to look fabulous for the week ahead, come ready to have your lace units installed in a private suite.Hair Beautiful believes that you too can have Beautiful Hair…See you there and be sure to bring a friend!!!!!For more information on this event please email hair.beautiful.company@gmail.comOr phone 08067983216

2 LATE and 2 SHORTTT

2008-09-11T04:22:00.000-07:00

Hi bloggers sorry it's been long!! things are great here in Nigeria just I can't stand this RAIN!! anyways I see some of you know about the "ubiquotous"(spelling?) hairstyle I am talking about, and yes it is that "RIHANNA" do, I used to like the hair, but now that I see every woman and child with it, I hate it.

Speaking of EXPIRED HAIR-do's, I understand that this summer has been one of short hair-styles but some of the pictures of the female below show that there is such a thing as "too much" of a good thing!!

Anyways below are pictures of Hair do's that are "too late" in terms of the timing of the do, and too short in terms of Length.

1. Victoria Beckham:
-She probably was the one that "popularized" the BOB, from her days as a Spice Girl with that classic BOB, to now "overdone" BOB with long bangs that she used to have. But this one PIXIE-DO, well..I am not a big FAN of. It might just be my personal taste, but this hair looks like a BAD Beverly Johnson human hair wig. I just don't Like!

2) Natasha BeddingField:
- What more can I say? this Hair-cut makes her look like she is questioning her sexuality, or getting over a heartbreak. Too DRASTIC looking and just not nice!

3) Rihanna and Mary-J Blige
- Well good ole Ri-Ri, I have you to thank for the latest hair craze, but this thing ur sporting looks like a style-steal from "There is something about Mary" ....hmm..
-Speaking of Mary, I am so sick and tired of this hair of yours! please do something ELSE!!!

4) BEYONCE
- I know it's a WIG, infact I am happy that it is a WIG. Now we are all know that you were not supposed to have Short Hair!! So next time you wear your "mammy-water" weaves I will smile because short hair is just not YOU!! (do you see her strong masculine neck?)

What is your signature Look?

2008-09-04T09:07:00.000-07:00

(Courtesy of SensualfemaleBlogspot)

Hey Bloggers how are you? Things are great, am adjusting to Life in Nigeria quite well. Finally fixed my internet so I should not be having a problem with it anytime soon.

Anyways…

I am doing my hair this Weekend and I am uber-excited, however I have a dilemma. For the past months I have been in the states I have be going on and off with Weaves and my real hair, and have become so attached to it, but now the heat and humidity in LAGOS is making it very uncomfortable for me to have hair anywhere close to my face.

I actually have broken out in rashes on my face because of all the strands of hair in my face that has been accomodating heat. I don’t know how the girls in my gossip magazines do it, with their 20 inch weaves and what not, but this is so Unbearable!!!

So my next option now is braids, but I have not braided my hair since..em…while…like forever!! Or wait am lying, I did micro braids last time I went to D.C and it completely cut all of my front hairline…..so much so that after takin out my braids (mind you I was crying as I was doing this) I SWORE OFF those suckers for life.

But now as I am looking around at the sexy cornrows, and “bob-marleys”, as well as the packets of “amina” in my mom’s room, I am craving the thought of putting my bum to sleep while sitting for 8hrs for some nice braids.

Infact, I think that’s what I’ll do because maintaining this weave is becoming unbearable!!

However I am reluctant (not just because I am afraid that it will cut my hair) but because I have been working at developing and defining my signature look and hair-do. I envy those girls that have had bangs forever and continue will continue to wear them because that's their signature look, I have pratically done every hair I can possibly do in search of this look, and now that I have found it (or thought I did in the forms of 16inch, color 4/30 wavy locks) I have to let it go because I can't handle it with this change of climate. Anyways I guess I just have to find my signature style in braids then.

So I guess that’s it, good bye to my signature “superstar” weave, and Hello BRAIDS!! I am soo excited, I can't wait, As soon as I get them done, I’ll post pictures!!

Blogging from Nigeria

2008-09-01T05:17:00.000-07:00

Hey Bloggers whats new? as my heading says am blogging from Nigeria, def. a new experience esp. with my slow internet and what not. Anyways nothing will stop me from doing what I love the most: talking about Hair. lol.

Anyways..

I am very excited about being back home. I feel like am finally at peace, ironically considering the chaos everywhere (currently in Lagos). I don't know what it is but whenever I am home, I feel so much at peace with everything!! and am always more focused about what am doing, it's crazy.

I am also excited about this because Nigeria is def. a place to be inspired to talk about hair. Well one thing I don't understand about hair-styles in Nigeria is this: Why is it that when a HAIRSTYLE is POPULAR, everyone is not ashamed to be rocking it? I know that sounds dumb, cuz I mean everyone wants to be rocking the latest thing, but no really. I have seen women with the same hairstyle, hair color and everything, I just don't get, I hate doing the HAIR that everyone else is doing. It's so annoying. Like when I do braids, I have to do some funky colors, or when I do my weave my lengths have to be crzy. something diff. just so when am stuck in the elevator there is a high percentage that the lady beside me has a different hairstyle from mine. Its crazy, whenever a new style comes out, 80% of the female population will be sporting it!! remember the "hair Wrap" (u combed it upwards then folded it in on top) back in the '90's? that everyone was rocking from your mom, to your teachers, to your aunties to the ladies in "CHECKMATE" to the lady that was doing ur hair to basically everyone in the HAIR SALON!!!!lol..

anyways...be sure to checkout more..

take care :)

Azara LOVES: Kimberly Kimble

2008-08-27T16:39:00.000-07:00

So I was going on one of my regular cheap cosmetics spending spree in Walgreens when I came upon a new line of hair products for "Women of color" by the name Kimble. I love the packaging and all and most importantly I like that it had everything I was looking for, from products for weaves to normal hair.

Everything about the packaging was very simply and clear. So being the researcher I am, I had to look up the man or woman behind this line. Lo and Behold it's Kimberly Kimble one of my fav. celeb hair-stylist. Often featured on Allure magazine and recently on Oprah, Kimble is the lady behind the hair-styles of some of your favorite celebs like Vanessa Williams, Beyonce Knowles, and Kerry Washington.

Below is Kimberly Kimble talking about her Product Line.

"My products were all about finding a way to style your hair without damaging it. I wanted my products to give results- healthy hair that looks and feels good and has incredible shine. My clients always loved the way their hair looked after they came out of my salon and I wanted a way that they could achieve the same shine at home".

Kimberly's tip on Black Hair:

" For Black hair, you definitely want to keep it moist, don’t let it get dry and brittle because that’s what causes breakage".

" Many women are afraid to cut their hair- don’t be. It’s much healthier to keep your hair cut- it looks fresher and keeps the hair healthier"

" Hair maintenance is the most important- the key is to get the right maintenance products. Black hair needs a little bit more attention than most to stay healthy, so make sure you’re sleeping on silk"

For more information on her and her Hair product Line, check out her website: http://www.kimblehaircare.com/

Celebrity Comments on Kimble's products (courtesy of http://www.hairboutique.com/tips/tip000269.htm):

-Actress Taraji P. Henson has said "Kimble's Ginger Cream Conditioner smells so delicious you want to eat it."

-Garcelle Beauvais has said "I love Kimberly Kimble shampoo and conditioner. She's a hairstylist I've been working with forever. My favorites are her Peppermint (Cream) Shampoo and her Vanilla Leave-in Conditioner. I just love when you can smell your hair all day long

What the HELL was she thinkin?

As much as I am a Big fan of experiments, I hate CRIMPED hair!! and Tyra what is this CRAP??

HAIR CHANGE ALERT!: Do you LIke Michelle's MANE Move?

Hair Drama, Hair trauma..

2008-08-18T09:19:00.000-07:00

Some days I just HATE my hair, I just want to get clippers and shave all of it OFF!! I look at other people's hair and I wonder why their's behave so much better than mine. I am sooo SICK of this HAIR somedays!!!

anyways that was me last night, I have been trying to maintain my hair naturally since it has been breaking for a year now. So while I was taking off my weave, I noticed I could not comb my hair, it was sooo tangled that I had to chop the thing off!!! so am back at square one. But am not bothered, the most important thing for me is to have healthy, full hair, not necessarily long hair.

So anyways am trying to get my hair all healthy again, one of the things I learned is that hair grease like the one below, is not good for conditioning hair, especially if you are trying to nourish your hair, rather it is best to use natural oil.

If you check out my previous post, you will see when I blogged about Jojoba oil as a hair conditioner. Also while surfing the net to find helpful hints, I came across this youtube video of an oil based hair recipe for conditioning hair, I've not yet tried it but I want to get comments from those that have on whether this works.

In the past I've normally used olive oil and that worked well too.

Anyways,..

One of my favorite shampoos especially for those that have hair like mine which is very weak and brittle, is DOO GRO's MEGA THICK anti-thinning shampoo.

According to the website: http://www.doogro.com/,:

-DOO GRO®Mega Thick Anti-Thinning Shampoo Thickens and strengthens.

-Helps repair weak and damaged hair.

-Moisturizes and cleanses with Shea Butter, vitamins & botanical thickeners.

-Promotes thick, strong, growing hair.

I personally like it because my hair does feel stronger after shampooing.

Well for more tips and advice on maintaining natural hair, checkout my new fav. site: http://naturalblackhaircare.com/

ON A RANDOM NOTE

For those of you that might have missed this (kinda old now), what do you think of the whole beyonce controversial. Here is the pic of the ad that was supposedly lightened by the products company.

What do you think? Is it a big deal? why or why not? The question is why is everyone on Beyonce's case, it's not like alot of these stars know what the companies are going to do with their pics after taking them. Anyways you tell me!

What type of curls do I get?

2008-08-09T20:27:00.000-07:00

Hey Bloggers, hope ur weekend is going great. Here are some tips to achieving the type of hair you desire.

NATURAL HAIR

-Want to STRAIGHTEN your natural tresses without relaxing it?

First start by using a light texturizer to soften hair. Shampoo hair with Moisturizing Hair Shampoo, then saturate hair with a HOT OIL TREATMENT to prevent breakage and aid in moisturizing. Cover hair with a plastic cap and sit under a dryer for 10mins (no more than). Afterwards, rinse hair and apply LEAVE-IN conditioner and HAIR CREAM. Blow dry hair and then using a FLAT IRON, carefully straighten hair to create a sleek chic look.

(Tip courtesy of HypeHair 2008)

WEAVE HAIR

-Often confused about what Weave curls to get when you go HAIR SHOPPING? below are some Celeb styles and the matching hair that goes with it.

a) ZIG-ZAG Waves

b) DEEP WAVE

c) BODY WAVE

LOVE or LOATHE....

- What do you think of this hairstyle? would you rock it?

WHAT THE HELL?????

wHere do I eVEn begin with this? too much HAIR Ashanti, and just not NATURAL looking, I am almost sure this is a WIG.

Stylists, Salons, and Products.

2008-08-06T06:54:00.000-07:00

Hey bloggers how is the new week treating you? Hope all is going well for everyone. Please be sure to checkout my sister blog: http://q-essentialwoman.blogspot.com/ for new updates on diet, health, style and many more.

General Info:

ARE YOU in LAGOS or ABUJA and are looking for high quality human hair extensions or Lace-wigs?
- call Bola A. of Laviva Hair extensions with 08059005927, if you are on Facebook be sure to check out the group LAVIVA Hair extensions, and send her a message. Website (Lavivaventures.com) on its WAY!!!

ARE YOU in BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS and looking for a HAIR STYLIST?

-call Jennifer N. or email her with NELVERJEN@YAHOO.COM and she will do your hair for an affordable price. Jen does everything from ponytails, and weaves to Lace wig applications, all for an affordable price. Checkout her blog: http://hottestweavesinboston.blogspot.com/ for information on hot hair styles!! and if you are on facebook, check out the group Jen does the hottest weaves in Boston!!!

Visiting Ghana and looking for a SALON?

-then visit ENVOQUE BEAUTY PARLOUR,OSU in ACCRA. The do everything from weaves to pedicures and eyelash extensions. For more information, call them with 00233289521346 , 00233244042757.

AZARA LOVES....

I have just become obssessed with these rollers, I wish I just bought it when the commercials first came out because it would have saved me LOTS OF TIME PREPPING BEFORE CLASS!!!

anyways these rollers are easy to put on, they stay on, you can sleep with them. I usually use them before I go to sleep, but in these pictures I put them on 5 hrs before I needed to roll my hair for the night. Hope u enjoy!

Curls vary depending on how you curl your hair. This product is best used right before you go to bed, so that way it eliminates the 30mins or so you use before you go to work!

Rollers can be bought at any WALGREENS or SALLY'S beauty SUPPLY for $9.99, no hair lotion or spray was used to maintain the stay of the curls in these photos.

All about LENGTHS.

2008-07-31T21:57:00.001-07:00

Want LONGER hair?

below is an article from eHOW that will help advise you on what to do to grow out your hair.

Article courtesy of http://www.ehow.com/how_2038885_hair-natural-hair-growth-tips.html

Things You’ll Need:

Aloe Vera
Citrus Fruits
Jojoba
Rosemary and Sage

Step1Step One: Buy a High Quality Hair Growth ProductI suggest you go all-natural. Unnatural hair care products are a no-no for someone who wants long-lasting, healthy hair growth. Find a hair growth product that contains powerful essential oils, natural herbs, and vitamin rich nutrients your hair needs to survive. Look for products with ingredients such as the aformentioned Aloe Vera, Citrus Fruits, Jojoba, Rosemary, and Sage. Make sure you stay away from all natural products that use natural extracts. Extracts are not as powerful as essentials oils. They are a cheap substitute for the real thing. Although there are several natural hair care products on the market, not all hair growth products are created equal. Make sure you read the fine print. Most “natural” products still contain phosphates, sodium lauryl sulfate, petroleum, mineral oil, and other lab created humectants that ultimately damage your hair. My advice---if you can’t read the ingredients, don’t buy the product. When I was searching for a natural hair growth product, I found one really great buy, Beauty 4 Ashes Super Hair Growth System. Finding this company took me awhile; but Beauty 4 Ashes pretty much gives you everything you need to make your hair grow. Foremost, I checked the ingredient listings and the products contained no artificial ingredients. The system also included hair growth vitamins, a great hair healthy eating plan, and even scalp stimulating hair growth exercise routine. At first, the system may seem a bit pricey, but, boy was I impressed with the results. In 9 months, I went from patches of hair to hair just above my shoulders. Now, I am no product junkie; but I have to tell you that this product is worth the money. It does not cost an arm and leg and it is worth every penny you pay. You can find it easily at www.discoverb4a.com. Also, check for it on Ebay. You may actually find a deal.

Step2Step Two: A Healthy Hair Eating PlanYour hair is all protein. Thus, you need a protein rich diet, chocked fill of B Vitamins and other hair-strengthening nutrients. Increase your intake of fish. It is full of healthy proteins and essential fatty acids and natural oils your hair needs. In addition, drink a protein supplement or shake everyday. If you follow this plan, not only will your hair grow, but you will also lose weight. That is, of course, if you lay off the junk food. Remember, I warned you too much junk food above.

Step3Step Three: Drink WaterEight to ten glasses of water is an absolute requirement. Drinking water flushes your body of toxins, chemicals, and impurities that stifle your hair growth and disrupt your hormone and enzyme imbalances. Water also transports the important nutrients your body needs throughout your body. Hate drinking water? Add lemon and Splenda to have a healthy, tasty alternative

HOWEVER....

HOW LONG IS TOOO LONG???

I was getting my hair done the other day, when a lady that was selling hair came up to me to tell me that she had the best hair extensions from italy (good hair comes from italy?), anyways when I asked about what colors she had, she went on to tell me that she had up to '26 inches, and I was thinking to myself: "WHAT DA HELL will I do with 26inches extension"??, what am I auditioning for Mamawater #3. People please help me understand this crazy need for ridiculously LONG EXTENSIONS.

I mean I am a big fan of long weave (mine is currently 16), 18 is my MAXIMUM, but 26???? REALLY that's down to half my a$$.

Tell me bloggers, am I over-reacting? HOW LONG IS TOO LONG!!!

Check out these following LONG WEAVE CULPRITS!!

wat da F?

This is CRAZY!! the babe is practically using her hair as a shawl, this is just too much.

got NATURAL, RELAXED, or WEAVE hair???

2008-07-29T10:22:00.000-07:00

Hair WEAVE problem: Is your WEAVE dry and BRITTLE, especially after you CURL and flat IRON it?

Solution: Be sure to apply Hair Butter or Serum BEFORE straightening. Remember you must care for your human hair extensions like your own and this includes deep conditioning. Products like: KIMBLE HAIR BUTTER ($11.99). apply a small amount of hair butter before you curl or straighten to moisturize your hair extensions.

Also be sure to use High-grade tools that contain pure titanium plates.

GREAT PRODUCTS for Relaxed or Natural Hair:

-visit Fantasiahaircare.com for hair products ranging from tea tree oil to olive oil hair polishers that will help make moisturize dry and dull hair for more natural HAIR SHINE!

Want LONGER hair?

-a friend of mine with gorgeous natural hair swears by Mane 'n Tail products. Have you tried it? send me an email hairbyazara@gmail.com and tell me if it works!

STEAL HER STYLE!

-I love Tanika Ray's natural curls, it's so fiery and sexy!!! After much research I found a website that offers tips on creating sexy twists.

Check out this website: http://missjessies.com/twist101.htm

Hair tips, Hair styles and more...

2008-07-28T09:54:00.000-07:00

How to Take Care of Black Hair

from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

Taking care of hair when you are African-American is a little different. Here's how..

Steps

Find a good moisturizing shampoo and conditioner. Use the one particular to your hair type. For instance, if your hair is dry...choose a dry hair brand. If your hair is colored choose a brand for color care. Choose products with alot of natural ingredients. avoid products with mineral oils, they're ok but too much can make your hair brittle. Olive oil, shea butter, grapeseed oil, avocado oil, carrot oil, and other natural oils are much better. Aphogee shampoo and reconstructor is decent at about $9.00 a bottle. Redken butter is a really good deep conditioner. Creme of nature moisturizing shampoo plus conditioner is great if you are in a hurry. If you have more money to spend try mizani protein moiturinzing shamapoo and conditioner, or joico k-pak shampoo and conditioner(you can find the generic version of the joico k-pak at sally). stay away from amonium laurel sulfate if possible, if possible, its a really drying detergent found in most shampoos(including some of the good ones listed)
Black hair can get very dry, so moisture is key when nursing your hair back to health. Try Elsta Mango Butter, Profective line, or Organic Root Stimulator products, Mizani tea rose moisturizer cream, kera care moisturizer,etc all of which can be found at your local Walmart or pharmacy. If you have a little more money to spend you could either try the Ultra Black Hair, Crème of Nature line.You can also use a small amount of grapeseed, olive or jojoba oil straight from the bottle. Aveda makes a really good leave in conditioner which I like to use right after I wash my hair and before I put little oil in it.
Decide how often you are going to shampoo and deep condition your hair. The once a month myth is sure to make your hair break off. You will want to shampoo and condition every 3 to 5 days, your hair will like that. If thats too much try once a week. Deep condition every week if you have time, and no less then twice a month. But you must listen to your hair!
Decide if you want to use "grease" in your hair. Most black hair needs extra moisture but stay away from products with petroleum. Petrolem makes hair stiff dry and greasy. Instead of grease, try natural oils(or quality products like the moisturizers listed above), which are a great for your hair because they don't have all those sulfates, sodium’s, and preservatives in them. They also gives your hair a nice shine. Grape see oil is really light, and it can withstand high tempatures without burning, which will help control damage if you use heat on your locks.
Moisturize your ends and be sure to keep them moisturized so they don’t split.
If you use heat on your hair, try and cut it down to once a week if you can and make sure you use a heat protector or straightening spray [I recommend Fantasia heat protector straightening spray] on your hair before flat ironing or curling. Hold the barrel cover slightly open so the hair simply passes over the barely without being tugged and pulled by the barrel cover when you use the curling iron. If you absoulutely must use oil when you use your curling iron, dab on a very, very, extremely tiny amount of Optimum Oil Therapy 3-in-1 Cremé and it won't leave your hair oily. A picture of this is also attached.
Make sure you tie your hair up before you go to bed with a Satin or Silk scarf. You can get them at Wal-Mart for cheap. You can also get a satin bonnet for when you have curls in your hair. Satin pillowcases are good for those nights when you just don’t feel like putting your hair up in a scarf. This prevents the hair from tearing and snagging and ultimately breaking off while you sleep.

Tips

Oil natural hair (not straightened, permed or relaxed) about once each day. Oil straightened hair no more than twice a week with an extremely tiny dab of the stuff only AFTER putting on a moisturizing leave in. This is called sealing. The oil seals in the moisture of the leave in and ensures that thehair stays healthy.
Stay away from the crap in the regular white hair care treatments that say for women of color, such as Pantene. Most of that stuff is crappy. Go to the ethnic hair in the section of the CVS and you've got it made.
Make sure you don't wear your hair in one style for a long time or everyday your hair will break off.
It is best to get a relaxer every 8 weeks or longer, in order to prevent overprocessing and making sure that only the new hair is relaxed
A good shampoo is John Paul Mitchell Super Skinny shampoo. It is kind of expensive but its worth it get the conditioner to go with it.
To reduce tangles, try trimming your ends.
Wear a satin bonnet or scarf to bed.
Avoid rubber bands.
Instead of using shampoo, try washing your hair as you usually would, but with conditioner only. Use cheap conditioners like Suave, White Rain and VO5. They all work well.

Warnings

If your hair is relaxed, only relax your new growth and NEVER overlap the relaxer onto previously relaxed hair. To prevent overlapping the previously relaxed hair, which causes overprocessing and ultimately breakage, apply an essential oil, castor oil, extra virgin oil, or vaseline to protect the previously relaxed hair.

A key factor in maintaining the length and overall health of your relaxed hair, reapply the relaxer only to the new growth( virgin hair that has never had chemicals applied to it). Most stylist will recommend a touch - up every 4-6 weeks; that is not always necessary some hair textures only need to have a touch -up every 3 months which is 12 weeks, and some can extend longer without any damage to the hair shaft. It is vital to do what is best for your hair texture and alawys make certain to never leave the relaxer on the hair too long; this will cause serious damage and possible hair loss. Follow the instructions on the relaxer hair care system if you are relaxing on your own. If you are going to a professional stylist make sure to vocalize when the relaxer is burning or if their is any discomfort at all to prevent hair loss.
Look at the ingredients: if it has too many long chemical names, try and stay away but that isn't ALWAYS bad. But if you know your hair is way fragile don't do it. Watch for petrolatum, it's bad for your hair, as is Mineral Oil. But if it's Lite Mineral Oil, you can go with it. Just Mineral Oil!

Things You'll Need

Moisturizing shampoo and conditioner [I use Tresemme]
Deep conditioner [Like Mayonnaise for hair]
Protein treatments
Essential oils like jojoba, coconut, castor oil, carrot, and olive oil

Silk or satin sleep scarf

Related wikiHows

How to Clean Hairbrushes and Combs

Article provided by wikiHow, a collaborative writing project to build the world's largest, highest quality how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Take Care of Black Girls' Hair. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.

STEAL THAT LOOK

TAKING CARE OF NATURAL

HOT ROD STYLES!

HOW-TO VIDEO: Courtesy of Mwedzi of youtube.com

HELL NO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

-nO wonder he's never without a head gear, WOW. just WOW.

- I don't even know what to call this, Lion King?

Nice BUNS ;)

2008-07-24T19:23:00.000-07:00

LOOKING for an easy yet chic way to style ur HAIR? why not just slap on some pomade, pull your hair together and twist ur Ponytail into a nice BUN.

no longer are BUNS for special occasions, nowadays you can rock ur BUN from morning to Night, only changin jewelry to add to the special occasions.

Hope these pics inspire you.

Let ur Natural Hair GROW!

2008-07-22T20:54:00.000-07:00

hEY bLOGGERS, Its been a while I know, but I've got some interesting new info. for you.

Are you growing your natural hair and looking for products to help it grow, why not meet LISA!

LISA PRICE that is, C.E.O of Carolsdaughter (homemade beauty products for african american women). Here are some of Lisa's tips for taking care of your natural hair:

-courtesy of www.carolsdaughter.com

The Lisa Price Hair Regimen

Being the creator of Carol's Daughter puts a lot of pressure on me to have my hair look together at all times. There are no bad hair days for me.
Here's my routine:1) Before shampooing, I moisturize my hair and scalp with oil that I have warmed a bit. Not hot, just slightly warm. My favorite is Khoret Amen Hair Oil but you can borrow an idea from my friend, Jada, and use the Lisa's Hair Elixir. As I massage the warmed oil on my scalp and hair, I gently detangle, using a wide-tooth comb. It is best, when possible, to detangle hair while it is dry. It is more susceptible to breakage when it's wet. Gently comb the hair from the ends up to the roots.
2) Shampoo with either Khoret Amen Shampoo with Sea Moss or Rosemary Mint Shampoo with Sea Moss. Both condition the hair with nourishing seaweed. The essential oils of ylang-ylang, clary sage and bay in the Khoret Amen soften the hair and help to promote hair health. Rosemary Mint detangles with essential oil of rosemary and the peppermint wakes up your scalp
3) Deep condition with the Khoret Amen Hair Smoothie. Apply to hair from roots to ends. Use your fingers to apply it and finger comb your hair to make sure it is evenly distributed. Leave it on for 15-30 minutes. If you are a little lazy like I am and you don't have time to detangle in step one, don't worry, the new smoothie formula will do the work for you. "Hello new recipe. Bye-bye tangles."
4) Apply the Black Vanilla Leave-In Conditioner as a final conditioning step. You can also use the Khoret Amen Leave-Conditioner or Tui Leave-in Conditioner. I'm just addicted to the smell of the Black Vanilla.5) Massage Khoret Amen Hair Oil into your scalp sparingly.6) My last step is the application of my absolute, can't-live-without-it product. The Hair Milk. Hair Milk is the perfect lightweight moisturizer for so many different hair types and textures and it is just what the beautician ordered for perfect, soft curls. Squeeze about a quarter-size amount into the palm of your hand, rub your hands together and "scrunch" the product onto your hair, paying particular attention to the ends. Hair Milk's light blend of lemongrass and shea butter will define your natural curl and leave your hair soft and supple.
So that's the lowdown on my tresses. Peace.
Other tips just for reference:1) Add shine instantly to dull, lifeless hair with a dime-size squeeze of Hair Balm.2) Dry, brittle ends - soften them up with Some of Marguerite's Magic.3)For in-between shampoo maintenance, touch up your curls with Hair Milk, if needed, after you get out of the shower.

To grow her natural hair, Jada Pinkett-Smitt swears by the following products:
Lisa’s Hair Elixir and Hair balm.

Do you have REALLY DRY HAIR? why not try:

Are you looking for a mild texturizer?

Why not try Just for me's Texture softener

Below are some consumer reviews for this product from www.buzzillions.com

Hair review
am a 59 year old Black woman with waist length wavy hair. I am not half anything. THIS WORKS! With my roots growing in straight I don't have to do a touch up for up to 6 months. The first application took 2 jars, now I only need 1 for touch ups. When I want it straight I blow dry it but I prefer a rubber banded pony tail after a shampoo. I divide the pony tail and put pink oil on it, when it dries I have long curls. I have saved so much money. I don't tie my hair up at night and generally misuse my hair, and have had no breakage. I will always use this product!Also I have found this product for as cheap as 5.00. But I am an hour away from town and MUST order on line because of the gas outrage.

Good Product
May 29 2008
Pros:
Easy To Use, Effective, Gentle, Good Value
Best Uses:
Thicker Hair
Bottom Line:
Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
This product worked well on my 5 year old's hair. Her hair was very thick and long, we had our battles every morning. It got to the point where I would braid it and keep it that way as long as I could just to prevent a fight. I was a little bit afraid of what the results would look like, so I washed it out rather quickly. It did just what I wanted. Her hair is still thick but soft with waves and very managable, I can sill braid it and put it in all kinds of little girl styles. She has no breakage and I keep her hair moisterized. I will not retouch until we start having battles again. I will be using this product on her 7 year old sister this weekend.

Just What I Needed
May 28 2008
Pros:
Easy To Use, Effective, Gentle, Good Value
Cons:
None at this time
Best Uses:
Thicker Hair
Bottom Line:
Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
I just bought this product today to use on my own hair. After a lifelong love/hate affair with my hair, I decided to stop using relaxers for about a year. I was alternating with braids and pin curls to keep heat off of my hair, but still dreaded to comb out my hair because it hurt! And it took too long to do anything with it! I didn't wish to go the press and curl route anymore and just wanted my hair to be manageable! My hair is very thick (which was a surprise to me after using relaxers until I was 32. After applying the texture softener, I saw my curl pattern change and when I washed it out..it felt good on my scalp..do it right and it won't burn at all..my scalp would burn with a kiddie perm! So I was so surprised that this did not burn me at all! I decided to do a blow out and flat iron and my hair just looks and feels amazing..I think because this doesn't completely break the peptide bond in the hair, it is much healthier. My hair looks better than any relaxer treatment I have had. I am very pleased with this and can go curly or straight if I choose to. For me, it is the answer to my prayers...and if you live in a place where finding someone to do black hair is a problem, this would be a good idea. Follow the instructions for your hair type..or do that strand test to know exactly how long to leave it in...I just wanted managability and I got that and more...and when I finished my son said WOW mommie your hair looks good..and that was before I did anything with it. What a sweetie. Even though it did straighten near the nape, I am just glad that I can do something with it, or not if I feel like it. Find what works for you and that is all that matters. Keep it healthy your way.
Post this review to your blog

wonderful
Apr 30 2008
Pros:
Easy To Use, Effective, Gentle, Good Value, Smells great
Cons:
Must read instructions
Best Uses:
Thicker Hair
Bottom Line:
Yes, I would recommend this to a friend
sooooooooooooooooooooo glad my daughters hair came out wonderful.I would recommend this to everyone.

OIL OF THE WEEK: JOJOBA

-below is an article courtesy of hairboutique.com

Jojobo & Other Hair Oils - HairTopia Beautiful Hair Oil
Karen Marie Shelton - Copyright 1999 - 2008 - All Rights Reserved
Revised Date: 4/12/08 - Original Publication Date: 4/10/1999

Introduction
I receive a lot of AskKaren questions about the overall benefits of using oil as an ingredient for deep conditioning the hair.
While there are many oils that can be used to condition the hair, the type of oil you select should depend on your hair type, personal preference, budget and conditioning needs.
Some hair types like coarse or thick hair will usually respond very well to the heavier oils like olive and coconut. Other hair types like fine or thin hair will generally do better with lighter oils like sesame and almond oil.
Extremely damaged hair or hair that tends to break, split or tangle will often respond very well to Jojoba oil. Jojoba is a very healing and moisturizing oil for the hair. I have found over the years that jojoba oil will work for just about all types of hair.
The beauty of jojoba is that you can use it straight or in a mix. Depending on your hair type and needs you can buy various compositions that include heavy, medium or light concentrations of the jojoba in the mix.
What Is Jojoba Oil?
What is this mystical elixir? Jojoba oil is the oil of choice for many people suffering from a variety of hair woes. This is a excellent oil for adding moisture to the hair.
The reason that Jojoba is such a great choice as a hair conditioner and moisturizer is that the molecular structure of Jojoba is very similar to the natural oil that is produced by the sebaceous glands in the scalp. This natural scalp oil is known as "sebum".
It is a well-known fact that sebum is required for proper moisturizing of beautiful and healthy hair. Hair that has a good moisture basis tends to be more resistant to daily damage, tangles, dryness and split ends.

Jojoba oil comes from the jojoba plant which grows spontaneously in the northwestern parts of Mexico, as well as Arizona and California.
.continued

The Jojoba plant is so strong that it actually bears its berries in the intense heat and dryness of desert. Jojoba oil is the transparent, resilient and golden oil, and is often called the liquid gold of the desert.
According to extensive Japanese studies with natural and refined Jojoba oils, it was found that the Jojoba oil is not toxic in any way to human hair or skin.
As a rare tidbit it should be noted that Jojoba oil is very similar in its properties to sperm whale oil which is used in the creation of some forms of penicillin.

Straight Jojoba Or In A Mix
As I mentioned above, jojoba oil can be purchased either as pure oil or as part of a "composition" or conditioning mix designed for the hair.
A well known oil with a high concentration of Jojoba is Beautiful Hair Oil (BHO). I personally have been using this oil since I developed it for my own hair over five years ago.
While I believe that there are lots of other ways to deep condition hair besides using Jojoba or other oils, I also find that the use of oil, from time to time, adds lots of benefits that I don't get from other methods of deep conditioning.
Besides a high percentage of 100% pure organic jojoba oil the Beautiful Hair Oil includes pure essential oils and essence.
The Beautiful Hair Oil is a synergistic blend of pure 100% organic Jojoba oil, essence of flowers, vibrational elixirs of gems, pure essential oils of lavender, bergamot, grapefruit, rosemary & lime which are designed to moisturize dry hair and scalp. The BHO oil is not only loaded with goodies for your hair, it smells fabulous.
Many of the additional ingredients are also excellent for moisturizing and healing the hair. Rosemary oil is a well-known hair tonic. Lavender provides relaxing properties for the scalp while bergamot is very nourishing.
I have tried home grown recipes that required me to use a straight pin to pop open E tablets and squeeze the vitamin right onto my scalp. I never really noticed any benefits from using straight E vitamins although it was definitely greasy and hard to shampoo out.
I always encourage everyone to try whatever treatments that they think will help their hair, however I have found that some treatments (like the mainlining of E vitamins to my scalp) are more trouble than they are worth.

How To Use The Oils
I use the Beautiful Hair Oil for both deep hot oil conditioning, pre-shampoo moisturizing, emergency detangling and instant oil replenishment for the hair cuticles. The Beautiful Hair Oil can be used in many different hair care capacities depending on your own needs.
Is Beautiful Hair Oil the only game in town? Absolutely not. I believe that the key ingredient that makes Beautiful Hair Oil such a great mixture is the high concentration of 100% pure organic Jojoba oil plus the added secret ingredients of essential oils and essences.
I also believe that Jojoba used in any type of 50/50 mixture with any over the counter hot oil treatment will work well as a deep conditioner.
In the past I have experimented with mixing a few drops of the Beautiful Hair Oil with standard olive or coconut oils. I did not find the results to be as successful as using the Beautiful Hair Oil alone.
However, I have mixed pure Jojoba with olive oil and had good results.
The key is to experiment and find the formula that works best for you and your hair.

Deep Conditioning Treatments
My hair is naturally coarse, dry and wavy. I also have it highlighted with tends to make it even drier. In recent years I have had some thyroid challenges which has dried my hair even more. With all these factors, my hair can never get too much conditioning.
My own weekly hair care routine involves using one of the Phyto shampoo products and some form of rinse out conditioning mixture. I also will use a Phyto leave-in conditioning product when I know that my hair will be subjected to lots of heat, sun, wind or drying weather conditions.
Twice a month I alternate between Phytokarite and Phytocitrus Vital Radiance deep conditioners. I also use the Rene Furterer deep conditioning products on a regular basis.
Every 8-10 weeks or depending on the condition of my hair I will do a hot oil treatment. Although I personally do well with olive oil, I have found over the years that the BHO works very well, if not better than the olive oil, and the Beautiful Hair Oil is a lot easier to apply and shampoo out.

Hot Oil Treatments Can Be Messy
I have to warn you, any type of oil that you might use for deep conditioning treatments will probably be messy. Take the time to handle the necessary preparations to minimize the messiness factor.
Unless appropriate care is taken, Beautiful Hair Oil can be messy. I have learned through years of use that I have to be very careful. The mess is worth it, but I try to keep it contained as much as possible.

Treatment Steps
The length of time that I allow for the BHO application is determined by the dryness of my hair. Although I generally try to limit the conditioning time to just one hour, I have also slept with the oil in my hair overnight when I felt it would really help.
Just recently a very dear friend of mine liberally applied straight jojoba oil to her super long hair and allowed it to remain "cooking" in her hair for more than a day with excellent results.
Listed below are the steps that I follow for a deep conditioning treatment with Beautiful Hair Oil:
Note: These steps would work for any type of hot oil treatment as well.
1. Pour a small amount of oil into a bowl and heat by placing the bowl gently over boiling water. A microwave will also work but I am always concerned that the microwave may damage some of the properties in the oil. Will it? Probably not but I always prefer to take the safest route in everything I do.
If you prefer to use the microwave, make sure the oil remains warm and not hot to the touch. Be careful not to burn your fingers or your skin.
2. Using your freshly washed fingertips or clean cotton balls, apply the warm oil to the ends and middle of your hair. Focus on the most damaged or dry areas first.
While I apply the oil to dry hair, some people find they get better results when they apply the oil to damp hair. Experiment and find the best solution for your hair type.
Note: Avoid getting the oil within one inch of your scalp area. Whether you tend to have an oily scalp or not, there is a danger that oil applied directly on the scalp will cause it to become clogged with excessive oils.
3. After all the oil is applied, braid or wrap the hair into a bun and pin up to minimize dripping. Cover the newly oiled hair with a plastic shower cap or plastic Saran wrap.
Although you have the option of sitting under a hot bonnet type of hair dryer or sitting out in the sun, you can also use warm towels.
4. Apply a hot towel in a turban around the plastic shower cap or plastic wrap. You can heat the towel in your clothes dryer.
You can also use a blow dryer but the benefits are not as high as a bonnet hair dryer or hot towel.
I allow at least the minimum of an hour on the hair covered with warm to hot (not scorching hot) towels changing the towels as they cool.
5. After letting the oil soak into your hair cuticle for the appropriate time, remove the towel, plastic shower cap and shampoo the oil from your hair.
Because the concentration of oil in your hair may be hard to remove, a good trick is to apply a mixture of 50% moisturizing shampoo and 50% water directly to your hair before wetting it. Work the shampoo/water mixture carefully into your hair to break up the oil and then carefully add water to form suds and wash away the oil.
6. Follow the shampoo with a light rinse out conditioner and then do a cool to cold water final rinse to seal the newly conditioned hair.
7. Carefully towel blot your hair and then pick out the tangles with a wide toothed comb or pick.
8. If possible let your hair air dry.
9. Be prepared for major hair shine and softness.

Jojoba As An Overnight Treatment
If you want to leave your jojoba or Beautiful Hair Oil on for longer than an hour feel free to experiment.
On the rare times that I have decided to leave the Beautiful Hair Oil in overnight I have draped a thick towel across my pillow case to avoid stains. I have found that it is virtually impossible to sleep in a slower cap because of the heat. I will usually loosely braid by hair, wrap the ends in rags or cotton wraps.

Jojoba As A Daily Treatment
Jojoba is also superb to use as a daily supplement to sebum on the hair shaft, especially with long hair.
The amount of sebum a person produces depends on various circumstances and varies widely by the individual. Sebum can be impacted by a myriad of events that may be happening in our daily lives and is linked to glandular production.
Sebum, if produced in sufficient amounts, is typically distributed along the length of the hair shaft through normal combing and brushing.
How do you determine if you have the proper amount of sebum for your hair? After you comb or brush your hair pay careful attention and if your hair seems to have excessive dryness, you are probably short on sebum.
When excessive dryness does occur, a little jojoba can be applied on a daily basis to the hair to add moisture.
Although I do not use either jojoba or HairBoutique.com Beautiful Hair Oil on a daily basis, the following steps are recommended:
1. Apply a few drops of jojoba or HairBoutique.com Beautiful Hair Oil on the hands and vigorously rub the hands together.
2. Begin "finger picking" or running your hands and fingers through your hair from the area where it is driest down to the ends of the hair.
3. Keep the oils within 1 inch from the scalp.
4. Be careful not to over apply the oils or your hair may begin to become heavy or even slightly oily. Remember, a little goes a long way.

Jojoba As A Pre-Shampoo Moisturizer
Jojoba can be used for people with dry hair as a means to pre-condition the hair before a shampoo. Although this may seem a little unusual, shampoos and harsh waters will actually strip the hair of required moisture.
The application of jojoba or a similar oil will create a moisture barrier so that the shampoo will not strip too many oils from the cuticle.
Because the jojoba and related oils can also soften hair, it is excellent to use as a pre-shampoo detangler. All tangles and knots should be carefully removed before washing the hair. A few drops of jojoba or a similar mix can be applied to the tangled areas of hair and will help soften the knots for easier removal.
During times when the hair has become knotted from high winds or other conditions, a little jojoba can go a long way to helping untangle hair without causing damage or breakage.
A little jojoba on split ends will help temporarily "bind them" back together prevent further tears to the ends.

An Instant Moisturizer
A few drops of either Jojoba or HairBoutique.com Beautiful Hair Oil rubbed into the palms of the hands and smoothed over newly air dried hair can work wonders as an instant moisturizer.
I discovered that by carefully rubbing it through the dry parts and ends of my hair before leaving the house after my hair is dry works wonders at adding lots of shine and gloss.

Jojoba As A Scalp Treatment
Although it is not wise to get jojoba directly to the scalp, a very small amount of jojoba applied to the palms of your hands and then used as part of a scalp massage can be a wonderful treat.
A scalp massage using a very tiny amount of jojoba can be particularly beneficial and enjoyable. When possible ask a loved one to help you with a scalp massage that will not only relax our scalp but moisture your hair at the same time. Remember, a little goes a very long way.

**For more questions email me Hairbyazara@gmail.com**

Summer Styles CONT...

2008-07-14T13:10:00.000-07:00

Hey bloggers!! is your supposed "Summer Hair" already betraying you Mid-Summer? Looking for a way to spruce up you hair or are you just looking for something NEW? I hope the following hairstyles and tips courtesy of Essence.com can help you "Sassy-up" your hair do!

PONYTAILS:

Ponytails are instant glamorizers. The difference between the perfect ponytail and a "phony" tail is the texture and the color you select. (Courtesy of Essence.com)

Steal this Look!

To achieve this glam look, clip an asymmetrical bang and pin three large-barrel curls in front of a human-hair ponytail. (courtesy of Essence.com)

AFRO-CHIC

Achieve this coiffed 'fro with the help of a medium-size curling iron and a teasing comb. Twist small sections around the iron and release. (Courtesy of Essence.com)

CURLS

(Courtesy of Essence.Com)

Achieve this megavolume 'fro with loosely curl hair with a wide-barrel curling iron and back-comb throughout. Finish with L'Oreal Elnett Hair Spray.

HAIR 911

2008-07-11T15:34:00.000-07:00

Invigorating and moisturizing hair/scalp Tonic.

Want to PERK UP DULL, DRY HAIR?

YOU NEED:

1. 2 Tablespoons of finely grated fresh ginger. (Ginger stimulates the scalp)

2. 2 Tablespoons of avocado oil (Avocado oil can be bought at a health food shop or grocery store, it is moisturizing and easily rinses off hair).

3. 2 Tablespoons of Warm Water

Instructions:

Combine all the ingredients in a glass bowl and mix. To start, apply the mixture to clean, towel-dried hair. Massage well into scalp. Cover hair with a shower cap or wrap head with a plastic wrap. Leave on hair for about 25 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with warm water. Shampoo and condition hair, then style.

Have THIN HAIR and WANT MORE VOLUME?

There are products in the market that will stop breakage or keep your hair well-conditioned. First of all, "Volumizers" are prdoucts that are designed to make your hair appear thicker than it actually is, but this effect last only temporarily.

Create more volume with your hairstyle by using hair rollers at night.

Thinking about GOING from DARK TO LIGHT?

If you are thinking about coloring your hair it is very important to go to a hair professional as well as to follow these tips:

1. Your hair must not be overprocessed with relaxers, other color or overPRESSING

2. Wait at least 2 (1/2) weeks after your relaxer before bleach or permanent color is applied.

3. If your hair is brittle or shedding get a series of repair treatments before you color.

4. Take a 24-hour patch test to determine any possible reactions you may have to the chemicals.

5. See your stylist at least 2x a month for shampoo and moisturizing conditioning.

6. See your stylist for a color retouch on your roots every 4- 6 weeks.

ARE YOU GROWING OUT YOUR SHORT CUT?

Follow thes pro tips:

1. Keep the nape of your style tapered. As the rest of your hair grows, it will cover and camouflage the back, then you can stop tapering and tripm the nape instead, eventually your result will be a bob.

2. One of the best and healthest sets for your hair during this period is a wrap as it's easy to maintain and hides your growing ends.

3. Style your hair in "twist" sets with double strand twists or rod sets.

4. During the Worst of your in-between stage, braids or a weave can help get you through the transition of letting your hair grow.

Ultimate Weaves' Hair Brand

2008-07-04T09:58:00.000-07:00

-By RaVal Davis, article courtesy of Ultimate Weaves and Extensions.

Are you confused as to what brand name weaves you should purchase? The following serve as a helpful guide for the next time you go weave shopping.

1. HIS and HER

WHAT WE LOVE ABOUT IT
1. This brand features every weaving innovation you can think of, featuring premium hair extensions, Lace front and Lace part wigs, Clip on hair, bulk hair for braiding, men and women's hair pieces and skin extensions in a variety of colors and textures.

2. Their Website features great weaving and hair care tips as well as things every weave wearer should know

3. They have great how to videos you can buy with your hair for home application

INFO: 1800-421-4417 / http://www.hisandher.com/

ADORABLE HAIR

WHAT WE LOVE ABOUT IT:

1. Considered the Rolls Royce of Hair
2. Favorites of Celebs like Mary J. Blige and Tyra Banks
3. Features custom blending to create the exact color and texture of your hair 4. Features weaving hair hand sewn on wefts or bulk hair for braiding 5. 100% Tangle free hair

INFO: 1800-4HAIR-DO / http://www.adorablehair.com/

BOBBI BOSS HAIR

WHAT WE LOVE ABOUT IT

1. Features the most trendy and sophisticated styles, colors and cuts.

2. Their wigs are individually hand selected and crafted

3. Features a wide selection of human and synthetic wigs, extensions, easy wear hair, and hair pieces.

4. Has a wide variety of IndiRemi Hair (pure virgin hair) which is very healthy, and has great texture.

INFO: http://www.bobbiboss.com/

JAGUAR LUXURY

WHAT WE LOVE ABOUT IT:

1. It's a premium brand that specializes in luxury weaving hair, and front lace wigs in a variety of textures like Brazilian curl, Natural Yaki, Euro Straight, Wet-N-Wavy, Loose Deep Wave, and spanish Wave.

2. Specializes in hair catered to the beauty needs of African-American women

3. Has a Luxury service store that offers beauty services such as lash application and more

4. Jaguar Hair is America's first African-American owned manufacturer and distributor of hair extensions.

INFO: 215-382-1523 / http://www.jaguarluxuryremi.com/

OUTRE

WHAT WE LOVE ABOUT IT:

1. High Quality 100% Human Hair 2. Features quick Easy self-styled Bumped hair

3. One directional bumped hair comes prepackage and already bumped under for a great sew and go style.4. Makes weave application and styling at least 2 times faster.

INFO: www.outre.com

Good RIDDANCE to BAD hair-RUBBISH!!

2008-06-28T17:15:00.000-07:00

BAD WEAVE-ATTACK!!!!

Hey bloggers watsup? Hope everyone is having a fabulous weekend thus far. Mine was great up until I ran into a lady with horrible, HORRIBLE, HO-RR-I-BLE WEAVE!!!
I have nothing against weaves, I wear them quite proudly, but everyone once in while when I see someone with ridiculous weave I just want to pull their hair and return it to the Chinese store. I mean people really? I understand sometimes it’s hard to find people to do ur hair, but dat does not mean u should walk around looking like a fool. Damn!

WHY WEAVES?
Many women, dream of having long, thick and healthy hair flowing over their shoulders and down their back. Unfortunately, not all of us can grow hair that long and so for those of us that don’t and still want it, we buy it. But not all hair purchased is right for you. Experts say that "one of the big differences between great hair extensions and terrible extensions is based on the type of hair that is used and the individual skill of the extension expert", usually good extensions are made with 100% real human hair that is applied by a skilled extension expert to look just like real hair.

So What are the causes of bad Hair-WEAVES?

1. Good hair and bad hair-stylist. (i.e the hair-stylist braids thick cornrows that cause bump, or she skips to stitch a "row" and causes hair to be uneven)

2. Bad Hair but good Hair stylist. (i.e if your hair is not relaxed DO NOT get silky hair)

3. “Bumpy” hair closure on top or really thick hair-wefts that cause bumps all over.

4. When natural hair does not match the hair weave or when natural hair does not blend with hair weave

5. When particular hair style does not match person’s facial structure (em..Serena Williams)

6. When hair weave has too much hair products (oil, mousse, gel..etc) and tangles easily.

What can you do to avoid being caught with a BAD WEAVE?

First find a good HAIR STYLIST!!!

2) Pick hair that is close to your hair in texture, color, and thickness, if you don’t plan on leaving any of your hair out, then pick a color and texture that would compliment your face and skin color.

3)Start with good-quality human hair. However if you‘re price conscious (aren‘t we all) Good quality “already styled“ Synthetic hair is the way to go, just remember it melts if it's styled with a curling iron or a blow dryer.
4) Maintain hair with a detangling shampoo like KeraCare Hydrating Detangling Shampoo and a moisturizing conditioner such as KeraCare Dry & Itchy Scalp Moisturizing Conditioner.
5) When it's time to remove your weave, seek out a professional to prevent damage to your natural hair. Also if your weave starts coming out, visit your stylist to get the weave tightened and to ensure your hair is growing properly.
6) Before you sleep, remember to cover hair with Satin or Silk Scarf.

WHAT GOOD WEAVE SHOULD LOOK LIKE: UNDETECTABLE!

New WEAVE TECHNIQUE!! and Hair Extension DIRECTORY!!

2008-06-27T12:10:00.000-07:00

NEW WEAVING TECHNIQUE:

FLEXI-STRAND

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fydhad2973U

I love this technique!! I am trying it next!! tell me if you love it.

as pretty as this looks in the end, would u do this? does it last?

IF YOUR HAIR IS NATURAL and you want it to be all braided in.

Try Treebraiding
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f9QRL6dL8kM&NR=1

*And for those of you that are looking for Extension experts all over the U.S check out this online directory courtesy of HisandHer.com:

http://www.hairextensionsnetwork.com/

AZARA's TOP LOOK at N.E.A & Questions?

2008-06-26T10:35:00.001-07:00

As was mentioned on my previous post, the N.E.A. awards was amazing, and below are pictures of my favorite looks (Hair and ensemble) that evening.

*All pictures courtesy of Ladybrille.com, Bellanaija.com and Uniyverze.blogspot.com

AZARA'S TOP 5 LOOKS from the N.E.A awards:

5)
Kemi Adetiba

4)
Modele

3)
Tatiana of BBA

2) Oluchi

1) Ladybrille

----------
Hey bloggers, I get questions about hair products, salons and extensions asked on the comments, and sometimes I don't answer them because I keep forgeting to check my comments. Please if you have any questions regarding hair care, products, or anything for that matter relating to hair, please send me an email at:

HAIRBYAZARA@GMAIL.COM

hairbyazara@gmail.com

I check this email everyday and I will be sure to see your questions and get back at you.

Please don't be offended if I don't answer any of the questions on the comment board, I simply forget to check it.

Also remember I am NOT a stylist, I am just a lady OBSSESSED with all things relating to HAIR, but I'll do everything I can to answer your questions with all the resources I have around me.

Thanks :)

HOT HAIR-styles @ the B.E.T awards '08

2008-06-25T13:06:00.000-07:00

Hey bloggers, don't know if any of you saw the Black Entertainment Television (B.E.T) awards yesterday night, for those of you that missed it, it was def. HOT!! I am not usually a fan of the network or the awards show itself, but boredom captured me. Anyways the RED CARPET this year was hotter than it was last year, there were def. some Fashion forward people, but I have to say in the end, my favorite was RIHANNA!!! she KILLED IT!! from the cute yellow dress to the sexy haircut, everything was working for me, even the dramatic makeup.

Well here is a round up of the hottest hairstyles I saw, you might disagree :)

From 10 to 1..

10.

Honorable Mentions: The ladies of En Vogue. Still Sexy ladies!!

The "WHAT THE HELL" AWARDS goes to.....

Solange: Maybe she was in a hurry??

I normally like Gabrielle's Hair-do's but this one just does not work for me..makes her ears stick out..and didn't she get a HAIR-CUT??

Gabrielle:

A little bit of Everything...

2008-06-24T14:27:00.000-07:00

Hey bloggers, sorry its been a while, just busy as usual..Anyways just got back from attending the Nigerian Entertainment Awards (N.E.A) and I have to say it was amazing. I am so upset that my camera eff-ed up, now am left to *borrow* pics, lol. If you were there and you have cute pics u want featured, you can email me at hairbyazara@gmail.com.

Anyways everybody at the award was looking great, def. loved Oluchi's sophisticated hair bun, ladybrille's hair cut, and Big Brother's Tatiana's bob. I was speechless at how amazing everyone looked, people def. dressed to impress, what can I say Africans can DRESS!!!

With all the great hits, there were also some misses, GUYS please I am not a big fan of SUNGLASSES AT NIGHT!!! I don't get it, it does not make sense. And ladies, hoochie, too-tight fitting outfits are not flattering, please all dat sluttiness has got to go. Keep it clean and simple, and you'll DEF. have NO MORE DRAMA in your life. lol. Anyways....

HAIR-CHANGE ALERT!!

Some of my fav. hair divas decided to do something different to their hair, not too sure about how I feel, but I think am loving Tyra's hair color, but why does it look too OYIBO? Tyra give the Lacy's a rest. they've tried...am so tired of looking at it now.

and Gabrielle....em...This cut will def. take me a while to get used to.

MAJOR HAIR TREND ALERT!!!

Picture courtesy of BOHYME Egyptian Wave at Hairsisters.com

Voluminous natural curl and textures are def. the rage. I love this look especially with Bohyme egyptian wave, ($89.99).

When Models STEAL!

- each other's style that is...

I wonder who rocked it first?

ARE you currently in LAGOS and are looking to buy QUALITY EXTENSIONS?

Why not check out HAIR DIVA!!

Located at:
Murphis Plaza, 27 Sanusi Fafunwa Sreet Victoria Island, Hair Diva is the Exclusive Distributor for Nigeria.

Lengths range from 8inches to 32inches, based on the Pictures I've seen on the facebook group, the Hair is amazing!! be sure to add the group HAIR DIVA.

ARE you in LONDON and looking to buy LACE WIGS?

Why not check out Blessedluv

Blessedluv is based in London.

Contact Info
Margaret 0750 82 61 363
London, United Kingdom
*All infos. for Hair Diva and Blessedluv courtesy of their respective pages on facebook.

HEALTHY PRODUCTS FOR HAIR

Have DRY and IRRITATED SCALP? treat it with Doo Gro stimulating Growth Oil that helps repair hair damaged by relaxers and the harsh effects of styling tools. The botanical oils and vitamins are perfect for smoothing dry hair.

Although I am not a BIG fan of RELAXERS, this is one of my favorite for those with strong hair that can handle it. ORGANIC ROOT STIMULATOR OLIVE OIL is an amazing relaxer that is not too strong and sealed with its own built-in hair protection.

AND FINALLY......AZARA IS EXCITED ABOUT........

STEPHANIE OFORKA

Nigeria's Representative for the Miss Universe Pagent July 13 2008.

Please Watch and SUPPORT!!! I have a feeling she will go very FAR!!! I am soooo excited!!!

Anyways more on the african representatives check out http://www.bellanaija.blogspot.com/

My Hair-Experiment: LACE FRONTALS

2008-06-18T15:54:00.000-07:00

Hey Bloggers, the past week I decided to do something new to my hair dat I hadn't done, and that was to get a Weave with a Lace Frontal closing.

Now you might be confused as to the difference between Lace Wigs and Lace Frontals, well one is a Wig and the other is half a wig. The lace frontal is like half of a lace wig that is stitched to your weave and then "laced up" (glued) in the front.

Well, after I was done it looked great, but it's been less than a week and my glue has come undone. Also after brushing the hair in several ways to decide on a great parting, I found that I created a bald spot on my lace.

Regardless though I don't think this is a style I will keep for up to a month, it's nice when its done, its great when my hair is pulled in a bun (with all the baby hair slicked back) but knowing that some people know that my hair is a Lace (I might just be paranoid) makes me uncomfortable.

Anyways I will probably save this style again for a BIG day like my wedding day, but not day to day. I mean how do you go from having a normal hairline that people are used to, to one that is very close to your eyebrows (lol).

Here are some videos to help you understand what I am talking about.

LACE-FRONTALS

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=prv9D5euLrE

a process similar:

And it gets worse....

2008-06-17T10:23:00.000-07:00

At first when I posted those pics of Naomi's hair situation, I thought it was bad enough, but apparently her hairloss gets worse!! Looking at these pics makes me want to severly punish her hair stylist. Naomi, honey, you need to ask Tyra where to go and get them LACE WIGS, this ur situation is SERIOUS, and you are not helping by straining the little hair you have left by weaving it.

NATURALLY YOURS!!

2008-06-15T21:53:00.000-07:00

This is dedicated to all of us that are sensitive to Hair Relaxers, looking for a little motivation on why you should ditch those little devils? well I hope the following video convinces you, and if you are not comfortable with going all natural, I have some sewn'in weave ideas that include all of your hair so you don't have to relax anymore. (coming soon..)

Enjoy!

YAY!! I HAVE A VIDEO!!

2008-06-15T21:37:00.000-07:00

LOL, for those of you that have been reading, you know how hard this video thing has been for me!! lol am so excited, now I can post all the crazy video's I come across.

Anyways I am sick of TRASHY HAIR!! u know, the unbrushed stringy crappy extension crap that some people still carry (I won't lie I have been a victim of this).

If you are bored and tired of ur extensions, and you don't know what to do please simply brush and style like the above video.

TRASHY HAIR VICTIMS!!

Girlicious: trashy "pussycat dolls" wanna-bes

Traci Bingham: this girl must love trashy hair!

Nicole Richie: Thank gawd that trashy-hair-ness has been reformed.

HAIR-HATING!

2008-06-12T10:39:00.000-07:00

I've always had a problem with this, check it out:

So a girlfriend and I were going to dinner with a couple of girls she met at work, as we arrived, to my surprise I was greeted with some stares. I initially ignored this because I thought it was normal as I am the new friend, however when I really sat down to observe the situation, I noticed that I was the only girl there with a weave, not just a weave weave, but A WEAVE!! u know 18 inches, with my banging curls!! Basically what I am sayin is that I had SUPERSTAR hair and these girls did not. My friend was rocking her real short, while the rest of the girls had natural hair, and the other a very low cut.

Now I taught to myself, Zar, your probably making this whole thing up. But just as I was about to shrug it off, one of the girls made a comment Blackness and Nappy-ness. Apparently the girl (mind u not an african!!!) felt like she was truly representative of black beauty by not succumbing to the pressures to look beauty according to white standards...blah blah blah

My reaction to her was this: "since when was black beauty all about Natural hair, and isn't it belittling to think that a race of people can be characterized under one feature"?

I am not against women with natural hair, I mean do YOU!! I have rocked all kinds of hair but I stay true to that which I think fits me well, and I will not change and do something that is not fitting all because someone sees it as UN-BLACK.

Who says that black woman can't naturally grow Hair down to their backs (em...ananda lewis). for goodness sakes I cannot maintain my natural hair to save myself (brushing the thing is impossible).

SO my message is this, whatever HAIR you're rocking, be happy with it and do you. If you u truly are happy being natural then that's fine, don't go breathing on other people's neck because they want to wear indian, chinese or horse (lol) hair. Is it going on ur head?

I am not a fan of Hair-Haters, and I appreciate it if you leave the comments to your self.

Phew, just thought I get that off my chest.

Black girl with her real hair, so it's possible people!!!

Would you buy this?

2008-06-04T06:42:00.000-07:00

I am having a hard time figuring out how to upload videos!! someone help!!

Every year it seems like new innovative ways to do hair, keeps popping up! for a hair fanatic like me, I get excited because you never know what you might discover, but most of the times, things that look like great ideas, hardly ever are.

while I was going through youtube I saw a video of this equipment known as EZ braider, I don't know if you guys have heard of it, the concept is cool, but I don't know if this device really saves time. I mean by the time you are done put the hair into the equipment properly, you might have finished two or 3 braids.

If you were a hairstylist, would you buy this device??

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_w25dKKkh-g

If you were desperate for a quick weave would you attempt it this way?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yTtmqTu_4Zs&feature=related

If you could not find a stylist, would you let your gurl, do this weave on you?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LB-odG6Y_xY

Breezy summer Braids.

2008-06-04T06:04:00.000-07:00

Yesterday it hit me that it was summer! thanks to the wicked heat that attached my weave in the back to my neck...eww! anyways as I was trying to tie my hair into a ponytail, I started remembering the things I love about summer....SUMMER BRAIDS!! you know the sassy cornrows, or slick "pick-n-drop". If I was to assign hairstyles based on seasons I will say summers are for braids or short do-s, fall for weaves, and spring for both.

The good thing about doing braids in the summer is that:

1. you can work-out and not worry about how the sweat will stink up your hair
2. you can go swimming
3. styling your hair to go for Barbecues and parties is a breeze! (hmm...should I have my hair up down, or half up and half down?)
4. Styling time is reduced
5. it gives your hair a break from the constant heat and chemical torture.

So are you sold yet? lol.

If you are looking for styling inspirations, I hope these following styles courtesy of outre.com, can help with your hair decisions.

~ Enjoy xoxo

* All photos courtesy of Outre.com, and Hairsisters.com

NollyWood HAIR Trend!!

2008-06-01T20:45:00.000-07:00

Is it me or are our movies stars really setting some major trends, especially when it comes to hairstyles. The popular look of the moment is that of sexiness: long hair, high volume and both waves and loose curls. I love it!

Pictures courtesy of Niyitabiti blogspot, purefoto, ghanaentertainment and naijarules.com.

Ghana's Nadia Buari and Jackie Appiah.

Nigeria's Genevieve Nnaji

Nigeria's Stephanie okereke

Nigeria's Omotola

Nadia Buari.

Nigeria's Eucharia Anunobi

Ghana's Yvonne nelson

Ghana's nadia buari

Nigeria's Stella Damascus-Aboderin

Beautiful Omotola

Creating Sexy Curls

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XTnKfMBUVmU

or you can buy it already made with: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HLDF-dpD8nw&feature=related

Want to create sexy waves: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nt6mtPoZRO8&feature=related

For those of us with fabulous hair or weaves, you can avoiding the heat by pin curling. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fIyokqxVWlo&feature=related

HAIR AID!!!

2008-05-26T16:32:00.000-07:00

Hey guys, I get alot of emails asking me where to get some hair stuff, whether it is Azara products or other hair products. Like I promised today I will tell you about some cool products and where to get them based on location.

HOT HAIR SALONS:

LAGOS
DownTown Salon
Location 248A, Muri Okunola Street,
Victoria Island, Lagos.
Phone 01-2701394; 08037139505; 08035553556
Url www.dsalondowntown.com

LONDON
HAIR EXPRESSIONS
020 7485 7755; 020 8533 6608
1-3 Ferdinand Street, London NW1 8ES
Unit 1, 8-20 Well street, London E9 7PX
Url: www.hairexpressions.org.uk

*Looking for a place to order Weaves, Wigs and braids online? Check out:

www.hairsisters.com

www.hisandher.com
(now with lace wigs and indian hair)

www.mywigsandweaves.com

http://www.lfhair.com

GREAT PRODUCT TO CHECK OUT:

For more information check out www.profectiv.com

I love their relaxer and strengthening cream!

Cannes RED CARPET

2008-05-23T11:57:00.000-07:00

I am not saying that the following pictures are of women with the best outfit, but what I do like about the pictures below is the fact that their HAIRSTYLES matched the dramatic effect of their outfits. (all pictures courtesy of yahoo.com)

Side Part + One-sided Dress

Girly curls with a girly flowery printed dress

Dramatic Hair'do + Dramatic Dress

SLEEK upDO + SLEEK dress

REGAL updo + REGAL green Dress

ROMANTIC dress + ROMANTIC hairdo

Sexy VIXEN hairdo + SEXY vixen outfit

Favorite Naija "RED CARPET" Hairstyles (1)

2008-05-22T10:22:00.000-07:00

It seems to me that the best place to be seen these days is at the red carpet of any major Media event in Nigeria. It is the place to show off the latest fashion, accessories, and of course Hairstyles. While some keep it simple by maybe packing their hair in a bun, others take risk that either help or hurt their looks. But I have to say after looking through a great deal of pictures on purefoto.com, Nigerian women NEVER fail with their HAIRSTYLES!! I love it!! HERE are some of my favorite looks, (there were so many, I think I have to have a part 2).

I like this style very simple and natural.

Cute Hair, she knew what worked for her!

Love da color!

This look is very bold and sassy, and she pulled it off! I love it!! FIERCE!!!!

definitely loving T.Y's signature look!! esp. in this style

I love the color, love da cute just love da whole thing!! Oge is the queen of bangs, and she does it very well!

Nothing sexier than a BOLD and confident look!

I love this hair, I think my Bad photoshop skills ruined the pic, but I was just trying to emphasize the bohemian look of her braids!!! I lOVE IT!!

Great hair texture + Great Waves = Believable weave!! I love this simple yet elegant look.

Can't argue with this, Cornrows are always sexy!

I love her braids!!

I believe she has braids, loving the curls and volume!

*All pictures courtesy of Purefoto.com

To PERM or not to PERM?

2008-05-21T10:25:00.000-07:00

Last weekend I went to my counsins house to help her out with the twins, when I came in I saw that she had them with towels around their neck, hair divided in four and was about to start perming the first one's hair. You're probably asking what's wrong with that, but the problem is that they are 5!!!!. I don't know if it is written on the relaxer kit or not, but I am pretty sure you are not supposed to perm Kid's hair if they are that young. Isn't that dangerous?

I was like Tia what are you doing? and she went on about how the gurls cried each time she brushed their hair and so she believed that relaxing it would make it easier for them.

Needless to say I talked her out of It. The whole situation got me thinking, when is an appropriate time to relax your kids hair? I remember the first time I got my hair relaxed, I was probably 9 because that was the first time I got my weave. I remember feeling like Hot shyt and I wanted to take my hair to school, but my mom told me that the principal would cut it off. lol. Anyways I personally think that relaxing your daughter's hair at an early age would definately set them up for having damaged Hair.

What do you think?

The very best in "Human Hair" Extensions!!

2008-05-18T19:40:00.000-07:00

- Apparently voted "best weave" in Hollywood. Can't argue with that

-Love their hair!! I think that's probably all Cassie's, don't know

- Gotta love her!, her hair is always on point!!

-Been following her hair trend since ANTM, very nice and natural

Always wonder why your "store-bought" weave never looks as nice, and natural as those on TV? well that is because these stars wear the very best in human hair extension which is usually indian remy hair!!

At about $50 an oz. (yes oz. not packs) and with about 6-8oz that complete a full head, these hairs cost about $300-$800 (depending on length). Even though it might seem costly this type of hair is worth all its cost:

- With proper care can last up to 12 months (eliminating the cost of constantly having to buy new hair)

- Unlike hair in packs, this hair rarely sheds.

- The wefts are much thinner, therefore you have less hair bumps (amen for dat!!), helping create undetectable weaves. (remember Sanaa Lathan in "something new")

-Indian remy hair is more similar to black hair in texture, unlike the sometimes overtly silky hair extensions that are usually made for european women.

- Often come in great lengths! (but will cost you)

Overall if you are looking for the best in human hair extensions, and are willing to pay more than $300 for it, then this is the Hair for you.

For more informations, checkout Bellazara hair at http://bellazara.blogspot.com/

Product of the week:

Bored of your conditioner and looking for something new? why not check out this conditioner by Carol's daughter

No they didn't!!!

2008-05-08T08:53:00.000-07:00

so I was doing my usual "wasting time" on the internet when I came across this dvd on a ghana entertainment website. I mean am not going to lie I liked the movie "BEYONCE" but the name BEYONCE? PRESIDENT'S DAUGHTER? I mean seriously? and it was bad enough that the other character's name was CIARA, but wait........ it's not over, it gets WORSE.....

PRESENTING:

BEYONCE and RIHANNA.

are you serious? someone please explain this to me? I don't understand, why these names, I understand trying to make money and have people buy it, but common!!!!! BEYONCE AND RIHANNA???

aNYways these people want a HIT by all means, the movie features my fav. actress OMOTOLA, nollywood bad boy JIM IYKE and "soon to be if already not" NADIA Buhari. Good cast but bad NAME!!!

If you've seen it, do you like it?

are you a q-WOMAN?

2008-05-04T21:54:00.000-07:00

Hey bloggers wats up? hope you had a fabulous weekend!!!

are you a Queen-tessential woman??

Check out my new blog:

http://q-essentialwoman.blogspot.com

Hope you enjoy!!

Weekend UPDATE

2008-05-01T20:52:00.000-07:00

Is it me or did this week fly by really fast? Anyways, it is my personal motto that every girl should once in a while RE-VAMP herlook. Why not try that this weekend with these following tips. Whether it is a get-together or a party, or just clubbing, these following hair tips add the final touch to that sexy look you're going for. Hope you enjoy and have a fabulous weekend!!

LONG HAIR

Achieve this Loose curls look with a medium-barrel curling iron and hair spray

Achieve this wet and wavy look by applying a product like Pantene Pro-V Root Lifter Voluminizing Spray Gel, and braiding giant braids overnight. Release braids and style.

If you are going for the Super Straight look, apply a moisturizing lotion or flat iron pomade and press straight with the help of a ceramic Flatiron.

MEDIUM & SHORT HAIR

You can achieve this GLAM look with the help rollers. The trick is to have the rollers set in the same direction, have them curl upwards from the nape toward the face. Then use a soft bristel brush and unite the strands to create a curvy mass.

Photo Courtesy of Essence.com

Want to achieve this look by adding waves to your natural hair? Then Roller-set hair with medium and small rollers using a setting lotion such as Jane Carter Solution Wrap & Roll . Once hair is dry, release curls, brush them out and comb front portion of hair up and over to either side to create waves. (Tip courtesy of Essence.com)

This Look is achieveable courtesy of HALF-WIGS. Simply part hair in the middle and have it tucked under the ear, and the clip the front and back of the half-wig. For an exotic look, braid a cornrow across the head before placing the clips.

NATURAL HAIR

Very simple and sassy, this look is achieved by braiding two big cornrows in the shape of a crown by the sides of the head. If you are looking for a fuss-free hairstyle that is exudes classy-ness and sophistication, then this is the hairstyle for you.

This casual updo can be achieved by have about 6 or 7 single medium sized braids and then pulling them up together. This particular hair was achieved with twist instead of braids. Can also be achieved if one has loc's.

Photo Courtesy of Essence.com

If you don't want to braid your hair, you can just rock your sexy fro'. Don't forget to moisturize. I love this look, oh so FIERCE!!

*************************************************************************************

I am probably on my 3rd or 4th week of using Dr. Miracle's temple and nape balm, and I have to say that I am indeed seeing some MIRACLE. My hair is slowly regrowing in the temple area. I'll be sure to keep you posted when things are back to normal.

RELAXED!!

2008-04-30T23:37:00.000-07:00

This TIPS are for my Relaxed friends that need to keep their HAIR HEALTHY!!

1) Be careful about cleansing

Relaxers can damage hair, causing it to lose its ability to retain moisture. Especially for black women, shampoos tend to strip away natural oils, so therefore, Hair should be washed at the salon once a week.

2)Reduce your amount of Heat-Intensive styling

Be careful not to over-style your hair through excessive blow-drying and setting hair. This can be done once a week especially after shampooing. For the first three days after getting your blow-set, you can finger comb your hair into place and pull it back for the rest of the week or style curl the ends with a curling iron.

Lots of Moisture

It is important to restore hair moisture, so therefore put a bit of hair grease on your fingertips and massage into scalp. Products that use mineral oil, are usually the best. To keep up the sleek-ness of the hair, it is important to deep condition regularly, using treatments that contain natural oils like avocado or shea butter. A treatment every two weeks is great!

HAIR and POLITICS

2008-04-28T10:26:00.000-07:00

(Condellezza rice)

(Hillary Clinton)

(Margaret Thatcher, former U.K prime Minister)

(Michelle Obama, wife of Barack Obama)

One of the reasons I started a Hair blog (besides to promote my business) was to voice and hear opinions about the significance of Hair in our every day life.

It might sound a little far fetched, but how we dress our hair (male or female) often times influence the kind of feedback we get. For example try and give a presentation looking great from head to toe but with crazy unbrushed hair, and see how people respond to you. It's sad to say but our hairstyles convey alot of messages to the observer, stuff like whether we're single or not, bossy or not, wealthy or not, our religion, our sexual preference, our jobs and many more.

I am not a BIG fan of politics, but after watching an interview with Hillary Clinton, I got to thinking about why a majority of women in politics (esp. in the west) have the same hair style. It's so interesting they all seem to have this short, medium volume, hair cut. Someone explain to me why that conveys power? when did having masculine(ish) hair cuts equate NO-NONSENSE HAVING powerful women, isn't that going against "presenting a strong female front"? Meaning that as a woman participating in Politics, should you not be proud that you are a woman, and not work hard to hide it. Not to say that having short hair makes you less of a woman, but my question is why do a majority of female politicians wear their hair in the same style?

Although a majority wear their hair that way, there are those that don't such as the former prime minister of ukraine Yulia Tymoshenko and Cristina fernandez de kirchner of Argentina. I of course am biased because I am a big fan of long hair, but to me these women exemplify strong feminity. Not to say that one is better than the other, but that looking like a woman while running for public office should not be considered wrong, or trashy. I don't know about you but I like my female politicians to look like this:

Yulia Tymoshenko

(With her signature braid)

(Braids undone)

Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner

Creating Volume

2008-04-25T13:33:00.000-07:00

One of the easiest way to create volumes is by rolling it with HOT ROLLERS. Moisturize your hair, and set it on Hot Rollers and then release. The size of your curls depends on the size of the rollers, so if you want tighter curls, use smaller rollers and if you want loose curls use bigger rollers. Hot rollers are quite a time saving investment for $80.

Try this SEXY do and have a SEXY FABULOUS WEEKEND!!

Weave Cleavage??

2008-04-24T14:10:00.000-07:00

Well that is what my girl Naomi Campbell has been accused of displaying. According to the Mirror U.K, it seems like Ms. Campbell has been experiencing some hair loss due to Traction Alopecia (see early post for more info). I actually noticed earlier that she had been displaying some interesting receding hairline. Anyways I can't judge, all I can say is STAY AWAY from the tight braids and cool your hair with some lace wigs or regular wigs.

(courtesy of thisislondon.co.uk)

(Excerpt from Mirror.co.uk)
Expert Leonora Doclis believes Naomi may be suffering from hair loss brought on by years of using weaves to make her locks appear straight.
She said: "There is a possibility that Ms Campbell could be experiencing a condition called traction alopecia but, if so, it is a very mild case.
"Traction alopecia is hair loss caused by excessive and long-term pulling on the hair follicles.
"This can be due to hair extensions or weaves and results in deterioration of the hair's thickness."
Leonora, of the Belgravia Centre hair loss clinic in London, added: "It is possible to repair this condition by the use of certain treatments but the results depend on the severity of the condition and extent of the hair loss."

Back with a' BANG!!

2008-04-22T16:18:00.000-07:00

Anyone that knows me know that I love BANGS!!! I mean first it is an easy way to look both stylish and sassy, and secondly it is the easiest ( sans plastic surgery) way to take back the years, and look playful and young.

Bangs are a great way to keep your style very versatile. You can make your old hairstyle sassy by adding bangs and if you like you can use it to cover up a problem area. Bangs can be either long or short, depending on the shape of your face. Looking for a way to change your look without doing anything drastic, then Bangs are the way to go!!!

For Bang "How tos" checkout these steps, courtesy of EHOW.com

Things You’ll Need:
• Mirror
• Hair tie

Step1
Use the hair tie to pull back your hair, if necessary, so you can take a good look at the shape of your face. Oftentimes, bad bangs are the result of a cut that doesn’t fit the person’s face.

Step2
Look in the mirror and determine the shape of your face. The six main face shapes are oval, round, oblong, heart, square and diamond.

Step3
Notice a round or heart-shaped face? Then, go with long, wispy bangs. Curving long bangs towards your face will downplay full cheeks.

Step4
Notice a round or heart-shaped face? Then, go with long, wispy bangs. Curving long bangs towards your face will downplay full cheeks.

Step5
Go for a gentler, side-swept bang with some length for a square or diamond-shaped face. The bangs should layer into the jaw line, which will help soften angular faces.

My Hair Experiment

2008-04-21T11:03:00.000-07:00

so now I have my real hair, I have decided to go on a break from using chemicals, braiding, and doing anything to my hair. I have decided that I will either leave the mini afro I have or wear wigs, and in order to help resurrect my problematic areas (which is the thin,sensitive, temple region), I have started using Dr. Miracle Temple and Nape. My friends have all recommended and praised this product, I have tried it but have not put their claim of "Hair growth in 30 days" to the test. Apparently if I apply the product twice for 30 days, hair will grow in my problem areas. So yesterday was day four, and so far I have noticed that it seems to help.

I will be sure to let you know if I have experienced any MIRACLE.

Anyways, after doing some research I have to say that this product is not for everyone, especially those that have sensitive scalps.

The one thing I like about it, is the "menthyl" cool feeling that is supposed to stimulate blood fuel and help your hair grow.

Important Information to avoid Hair Loss

2008-04-16T21:29:00.000-07:00

(Photo courtesy of skinandaging.com)

1. Do you wrap your hair at night? If you answered yes than you are doing a good job. Apparently wrapping your hair at night with a silk scarf protects your hair from damage and breakage.

2. It is good to wait between 6 to 8 weeks before getting a touch up. Relaxers were created for virgin hair, so relaxing hair that was previously relaxed weakens the hair thus causing it to thin out.

3. It is important to comb your hair especially if its weave from the bottom up, in order to avoid tugging on your hair.

4. *There is a hair disease caused Traction alopecia that is mostly suffered by black women.

Traction Alopecia.

According to Wikipedia…

Traction alopecia is a form of alopecia, or gradual hair loss, caused primarily by pulling force being applied to the hair. This commonly results from the sufferer frequently wearing his or her hair in a particularly tight ponytail, pigtails, or braids.
Traction alopecia is a substantial risk in hair weaves, which can be worn either to conceal hair loss, or purely for cosmetic purposes. The tight braiding and snug hairpiece cause tension on the hair that is already at risk for falling out.

More information on Traction Alopecia:
Traction Alopecia
Traction alopecia is hair loss that occurs as a result of continuous pulling of the hair. Pulling may occur from hairstyles such as tight cornrows or braids, weaves, ponytails or even hair rollers or curlers. Traction alopecia may also be due to excessive weight from long extensions or locks. Signs that the hair is being pulled too tightly are difficulty moving your forehead or temples, headache, and scalp soreness. Side effects of pulling too hard are breakage of hair strands and hair loss from the follicle. An even more serious side effect of chronically pulling the hair is an inflammation of the follicle and the appearance of small bumps (folliculitis). Inflammation can lead to destruction of the hair follicle and permanent hair loss. Over time, bald spots may develop along the hairline and in the area above the ears. Since the hair loss happens gradually, you may not even notice it until the bald spot develops or your hairline recedes significantly. If traction alopecia continues for a prolonged period of time, the follicles may become destroyed and hair loss permanent.

Treatment
It may seem obvious but it’s time to stop pulling your hair out. To save your hair, you may need to switch hairstyles altogether. However, if your hair loss is minimal and you want to continue to braid your hair or plait your child’s hair, for instance, you can make adjustments, such as wearing looser braids, plaiting the hair loosely and wearing shorter weaves or locks. Women of color often pull tightly on hair to make it look smooth or straighter in a ponytail or bun. A better solution might be to apply a hair gel or a dab of conditioner to the hair to help it to lie flatter and straighter. More manageable hair will look smooth and neat without all that pulling, so wash and deep condition regularly. To camouflage bald spots or a receding hairline you might consider brushing your hair towards the hairline or coloring the scalp with a scalp pencil. You can find scalp pencils at a local beauty supply store; apply as you would an eyebrow pencil, with short strokes in the direction of hair growth.

Once the pulling and tension have been eliminated, if there is active folliculitis, your dermatologist may prescribe an oral or topical antibiotic to reduce the inflammation. In addition, potent cortisone containing creams or cortisone injections may reduce inflammation. If severe scarring is present, hair transplantation may be an effective treatment

For more information check out www.traction-alopecia.com

**So please in order to avoid major bald spots in the future, avoid tight braids at all cause and loosen up that ponytail.

Hair-Cess-Orize!!

2008-04-13T20:17:00.000-07:00

So you are tired of the same look and want to tweak it up a bit, what do you do? you ACCESSORIZE!!!

Nothing is chic-er (is dat a word) than adding a hat, Beret, or just a nice cute hair pin like the one above.

Add a flower to bring out the earth goddess in you, or rock a sexy hat to unleash ur inner diva.

Accessories are good for all occasions, remember to be appropriate with it, i.e: don't wear a flower to a business meeting.

Need help deciding, here are some of my favorite looks:

FLOWER POWER

Sassy Clip

Casual Berets

Playful Hair Bands

Soul-ful Scarfs

CAUTIONARY TALE!!!! TOO MUCH OF A GOOD THING!

(your flower should not be growing out of your head)

(Hair-net outside when the sun is out is never a good look)

REMEMBER:

1. Be a little bit playful with the band and scarf by adding bright exotic colors and patterns.

2. with a Beret, it is always cute to leave a bit of your hair out in front.

3. Add cute sparkly clips for a "kept" look, dont OVERDO it with this look

4. and more importantly...HAVE FUN WITH YOUR LOOK!!

D-WHAT??

2008-04-13T19:53:00.000-07:00

HELLO BLOGGERS!!!! hope your weekend has been great like mINE :D, I can't believe its monday already. is it me or has days been going by really fast?

Anyways, am excited because I get to do my hair this week!! YAY!! I don't know about you but having my hair done is like a mini-Baptism (lol...lord don't punish me lol) but u know u just feel cleansed whenever u get rid of that garbage that was once beautiful, but now its irritating and you are tired of patting ur head. My goodness, the difficulty of finding a good hair stylist has resulted in me carrying crap on my head. You don't even want to know how many hats I have. I think my co-workers are beginning to think I don't have hair.

Anyways speaking of Garbage, I was minding my business one day watching T.V when I saw the commercial for the new Danity Kane album. I forgot the name of the album because I was starring at one of the members'head, you know who am talking about......D-WOODS!!

Now I don't know who to be mad at, DIDDY or D-WOODS, but both D's need a heavy slap with fingers full of rings, I mean seriously WHAT DA CRAP?

WHAT you could not decided between a short hair do and a long one so you did both???? are you serious??? like really you have been carrying that crap on ur head for a month now.

Better yet why aren't her band members saying 'ish? how can you let ur band member look like a REJECT? but then again maybe those hefas are to busy trying to outshine each other. or member D-WOODS just did not get the memo that you are supposed to be sexy not gender/sexuality confused.

Anyways I just had to vent, don't shot the messager, slap D-WOODS and DIDDY.

but I still like the band (actually somewhat because this girls hair just minus-ed my like)

PARDON ME!!

2008-04-12T19:10:00.000-07:00

I think I just spent a great deal of my life catching on Naija events thanks to Linda Ikeji and Bella Naija!! lol.. and approximately 1 day and (1/2) of my life researching where to order my 2nd lace wig, (the first one was the wrong size, I put it up online incase someone wants to buy it).

so please can someone help me understand how to upload a video in this blog thing? where do I go to upload a youtube video???

HELP PLEASE!!!

P.S if you have amazing hair-do's you will like to be featured in "Expand ur Hair-izon" please send me a picture with hairbyazara@gmail.com.

Thanks!

are YOU a RISK-TAKER??

2008-04-07T17:33:00.000-07:00

Are you bored of your hair? are you tired of being known with this same hairstyle? are you looking for a change? want to unleash ur inner sexy diva? then you might be looking for one of these new sexy asymmetric hair cuts.

Bring out your sexy wild risk-taking edgy self with either a bob, or a sharp cut.

Ciara's cute "Girl next door" bob.

Est'elle's Hair style is a definate watch this year! Love it. Cute evening do'

Keisha's sassy BOB.

Cute Hair cutes defy all body types, as shown by Toccara

I can't get enough of Rihanna's sexy edgy cut.

From the back.

Remember the rules are simple. Study your face, figure out what works with your angle, see ur hair stylist and take that risk if u dare!!! lol.

HUH???? Braids SHORTEN Hair's Lifespan???

2008-04-05T17:30:00.000-07:00

How can something so PRETTY be BAD??

I saw this article on Exquiste magazine online and had to blog about it. Correct me if am wrong but I thought braids were healthy for your hair because it made your hair grow (except for the micro ones) , isn't that why we were required to carry it like that in primary school?

Exquisite Beauty: Braids Shortens Your Hair's Lifespan. By Ugo Igbokwe

The lifespan of an individual hair is on average, between 2 and 6 years.
This life span is divided into three stages, which are:

ANAGEN: this is the first stage, when the new hairs grow, from the base of the hair follicle.
CATAGEN: this is the second stage, when the hair has now ceased to grow, the root shrinks and follicle breaks down, allowing the hair to move upward.
TELOGEN: the mature hair is loosely anchored to the hair root, and after the couple of months, the hair will fall out. Hair overly stressed during braiding, can encourage the hair to fall out shortening it lifespan.

Scalp Problems Caused By Braids

This is caused by stylist being too harsh when holding the hair to braid. This pulls the hair thereby stretching it to its fullest potential, and this will of course depend on the condition and elasticity of the hair. Then has the hair try to return to its previous length causing great stress on the hair follicle. This can cause severe headache a day or so after braiding. It can also cause sores to appear on the hair scalp, which in turn can become infected and very painful.
Hair Breakage Caused By Braids
Braiding your hair immediately after a chemical service is not acceptable because the hair after a chemical service does not get to an optimum moisture level of 8%, is overly porous and most importantly has poor elasticity. Even if the hair does not break at the turn of service it could break within days or week after the services.

Caring For Your Braids

For all of the above reasons it is vital that once you have your braids done, that you take good care of them. Follow the stylist instructions. However due to the lack of conditioning once your hair is braided, (it is often recommended that you do not condition for fear of the conditioner making the hair too soft and loosening the braid, loosening curls if curled or be tangled) it is vital that a month prior and past your appointment, you should spend time giving your hair a lot of TLC. This means pampering your hair with shampoo that will restore your hair’s moisture level to it optimum 8%, treatment conditioner that contains vegetable proteins, improving elasticity. Try and give your hair a treatment at least once a week. Because you can shampoo and condition your braids even half braids ask me how?

Author Note: There is no reason why you should not enjoy the experience of hair braids & weaves, as long as you take the proper precaution. Go to well-respected specialist; use good professional hair products and ALWAYS GET A CONSULTATION.

If you have any question on this article or other hair care consultation, please feel free to mail me at ugo@makemebeauty.com

**Article courtesy of http://www.exquisitemag.com/

What do you THINK?

Who's dat HAIR??!!! 2

2008-04-05T13:01:00.000-07:00

hEY bloggers, men this week was crzy I don't know how other people keep up with their blog because this is like work!! lol...am trying but I didn't think I would go like a couple of days without checking in...Anyways in today's episode of who's dat hair (lol sounds like a T.V show) we will feature Naija's very own "beyonce" (or so I heard she's been called).

Ashionye!!!

I love this girl, she is talented, creative and just seems like a fun girl following her dreams. Ashionye if you're reading I think you are AWESOME!!!

I just love my naija entertainers, they just seem like so much fun and all have this crzy ENERGY!!!

Anyways, Ashionye is from Utagba Uno, Kwale in Delta state and is well known as a singer/songwriter, and actress. A former member of the group "ELLE", the girls created their own brand of music called "Afro pop" and later changed their name to "Emete". The group dis-banded in 2005 and Ashionye stroke out on her own. Since then she's gone on to release her CD titled "A piece of me".

Ashionye is that singer that understands what it means to be entertainer, she has done an excellent job branding her look and sound. Everyone knows her signature hair color (that electric #30 or #33, it varies) and she keeps coming up with beautiful hair styles that sets trends!!

Entertainment in Naija has always been considered a boy's club affair, but singers like Ashionye and many others are changing that, and doing it with unstoppable charisma and energy.

Thanks to her Talent and beauty, Ashionye got an amazing gig acting as the brand ambassador for pepsi Light. Way to go gurl!!!

Whether it is braids or weaves, Ashionye knows how to rock them and sticks with what works with her beautiful complexion. So, Hair Azara is honoring Ashionye for knowing her look and branding her image.

Braided Elegance!

Sexy casual look.

(This one is probably my Favorite :)

Diva!!

Which Ashionye look is your favorite?

*All pictures courtesy of true love west africa, purefoto.com, and Ashionye.com

7 REASONS WOMEN LOSE THEIR HAIR

2008-03-31T11:55:00.000-07:00

hEY BLoggers, saw this on the front page of Yahoo, and figured it might help some of us (emm..me) with problems of hair loss.

This seems to be a popular topic, anyways I hope this article is insightful and still applicale even though it was written by an Oyibo Woman.

7 Reasons Women Lose Their Hair Posted Fri, Feb 15, 2008, 3:00 pm
- By Leslie Baumann, M.D

Let me make one thing clear: women, if you are experiencing hair loss, please know that you are not alone!

Women's hair can thin for a variety of reasons, and yet the topic is still far less openly discussed than male hair loss. In many cases, though, the causes are diagnosable and treatable, making it particularly important that women discuss hair loss with their doctors. First, let's consider some common factors that can cause and contribute to hair loss:

· Low iron levels: Iron deficiency, with or without anemia, can lead to hair loss. Do not simply start taking an iron supplement without having your iron checked by a physician because too much iron can also lead to health problems.

· Thyroid disorders: Both an overactive and an underactive thyroid can lead to hair loss.

· Low estrogen levels: Many women experience hair loss during and after menopause, when estrogen levels begin to drop. Other hormonal changes -- changes in oral contraceptive use, for example -- can also trigger hair loss.

· Post-pregnancy hormonal changes: Similarly, new moms may find that they're shedding a lot of hair in the first one to six months after delivery, when their estrogen levels return to normal. Actually, what seems like excessive hair loss is really hair's natural growth cycle regulating itself, as high hormone levels tend to keep women from losing normal amounts of hair during pregnancy.

· Telogen effluvium: This is the general term for sudden, temporary hair loss as a result of recent stress or surgery, which typically occurs around two months after the causative event or illness. (It may also be used to describe sudden hair loss as a result of other factors on this list, such as post-pregnancy hormonal changes.)

· Medications: Many medications may lead to hair loss. If this is a concern, talk to your doctor about potential alternatives

· High levels of vitamin A or selenium: There is rarely any reason to take more of these nutrients than you'd find in a good multivitamin.

Several recent studies of men have found that smoking also seems to increase hair loss. I don't know of any similar studies in women, but one thing is clear: Smoking is harmful for a multitude of reasons, whether or not increased hair loss is among them!

The best plan of action for anyone experiencing hair loss is to determine the underlying cause and eliminate it. And the best place to start is a routine physical exam with blood work. By simply drawing your blood, your physician can determine your ferritin (iron) levels, thyroid levels, and estrogen status - and that will already get you far in recognizing or ruling out many of these causes.

If your physician does not uncover a reversible cause for the hair loss, though, it may be the unavoidable result of genetics. But there are still products that can help stimulate re-growth:

· Rogaine (the trade name for the drug minoxidil), which is applied directly to the scalp, causes dilation of blood vessels and increased blood flow to the scalp. As a result, the hair follicle gets better nutrients and oxygen and the shrunken hair follicles become larger and hair grows thicker. Women who are pregnant or breast-feeding should not use Rogaine.

· Propecia (the trade name for the drug finasteride) is sold in pill form and inhibits the conversion of testosterone (which women have in small amounts) to DHT (or dihydrotestosterone), a hormone that gradually shrinks hair follicles and causes them to have shorter growth cycles. Though only FDA-approved for male pattern hair loss, Propecia may also help patterned hair loss in women. (Pregnant women or women who are planning to become pregnant, however, should never take Propecia.) Studies evaluating the efficacy of Propecia in women have been contradictory so it does not work in all women.

Both of these treatments work only as long as you use them, though; once treatment is discontinued, hair will typically return to its pre-treatment thickness. Stay tuned to hear about a new light treatment in a comb that may improve hair loss.

Wishing you great hair!
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -Dr. Baumann is author of the best-selling book," The Skin Type Solution." To learn more about her revolutionary skin typing system, visit her Web site, SkinTypeSolutions.com

**Article courtesy of Yahoo and Dr. Baumann.

FIRED! because of your HAIR STYLE????

2008-03-31T11:28:00.000-07:00

Well I can’t believe the weekend is over! And yes indeed I did have a fabulous NOLLYWOOD filled weekend, caught up with my naija gist thanks to Linda Ikeji, Bella and Niyi, as well as other Naija Blogs and now I must face this work filled week, BOO!!!. On a random note, Congratulations again to the new MBGN Ms. Anambra!! I should have entered that contest. LOL,

Anyways I have my serious work hair on, and I have a BIG question for y’all.

I was just reading a magazine about Hair and the workplace and what is acceptable or not, and it got me thinking. Apparently the article talks about how certain hairstyles are not acceptable in Jand and Yankee workplaces, hairstyles such as Cornrows and sometimes Afros. Can you believe that??? I don’t even know where to start. I mean what if my religion and lifestyle require I wear Natural hair, does that mean I get fired? I mean isn’t one’s hairstyle a reflection of who they are and why should people judge and determine what’s right and wrong??Really? Anyways its not just oversees I remember trying to rock this curly hair thingy in Nigeria, and while I was getting it done in the salon the lady beside me said “ I guess ur not a Banker, because no boss will allow that”. First of all lady, no one asked you (lol, that was in my mind of course), but still, why does my hair style matter at work in Naija?

So it got me thinking SHOULD HAIR STYLES MATTER AT THE WORK PLACE? And what is NOT ACCEPTABLE?

Anyways, incase you are in the same boat and are wondering what hair to do for your consecutive work (be it in business) I figure the girls from Apprentice Africa can serve as a point of reference.

Joyce's Short and Serious look. I love, tres ChIC!

Hannah's Braided elegance. Very versatile!

Bekeme's sassy BOB. Chin length and straight to the POINT!

Eunice's wavy, curly weave. I love a woman that can change her weave for any occasion.

Enjoy and BEST OF Lucks THIS WEEK!!

Pictures Courtesy of Apprentice Africa.

My Nollywood FAB WEEKEND!! begins...NOW!

2008-03-28T15:26:00.000-07:00

I don't know about you but I need a FAB WEEKEND THIS WEEKEND, so wat are my plans. I am going to take out my lil' braids I have, wash my hair, condition and let it BREATH!!! Then I am going to raid my wigs closet (believe me I have one lol) get a nice sassy wig I plan on using for any random "za lets go drinkin or something" and hang it. Clean my appt. curl on my bed and watch me some good ole' NAIJA MOVIES!!!

Everyone that knows me know that I am possibly the biggest Nigerian movie FAN!!! out there. I just can't enough of the drama and crazyness. I am so proud of how large the industry is becoming.

Anyways this weekend I plan on watching the movies I bought from my senegalese hair stylist!

But just incase you don't have any movieS and would like to watch some you can check them out on:

http://video.onlinenigeria.com/

also do you know your Nollywood stars have their own websites now? check out my favs.

Rita Dominic: http://www.ritadominic.com/

Omotola: http://www.omotola.tv/ (I love hers)

Ini Edo: http://www.iniedo.tv/

Genevieve Nnaji: http://www.aboutgenevieve.com/

Hope you all have A FAB WEEKEND!!!

Weave Terminology

2008-03-28T13:00:00.000-07:00

Ever flip through a magazine or see a gurl with a new gorgeous do' and you don't know what it is or how to request it? well here are some new weave technique and hair Terminologies:

FUSION:

Fusion: a strand by strand technique where a special adhesive is attached to your hair at the roots. “Often used in caucausian hair extensions”.
This technique takes a long time, about 8 hours or more, and usually last a long time. Ranging for 4 to 6 months.
Cons: You must see a hair specialist to remove this, you can’t remove it by yourself because there are special removers for this; don’t attempt unless you want to cut your hair. Photo Courtesy of SalonsofAmerica.

For my information check out http://www.agapecollection.com/

LACING OR TREE BRAIDING

Lacing or Tree Braiding
- When hair is cornrowed and strands of hair is left out. In the end the natural hair is braided, and serves as the support for the weaved hair. Hair in the end, looks like invisible braids.

Photo Courtesy of Fatoubraiding.com

Hair Weaving (bonding)

- This is when wefts of hair is bonded to the scalp. Apply thin layer of glue to the weft and then bond to scalp, be careful not to bond to hair. Weave is usually removed with the help of hair oil, hair sheen and glue remover. BE CAREFUL this technique usually cuts hair. Usually advisable for those of us that have healthy hair and are looking for a little bit of Volume.

PonyTail:

We all know this one, brush your hair all up in a bun. Gel the sides or use beeswax and then clip the ponytail. Sometimes we don't have an available clip on ponytail and you have a weave so what do you do? you wrap the weave you have laying around and then secure it with a hair pin.

Quick Weave or Half Wigs

Courtesy of Tasha'sbeautySupplies.

My favorite, this is for my gurls out there that don’t have time to go to the hair stylist. Lets say u took off your braids or weave on Saturday, with the promise to have it done that day. But then your stylist calls you to tell you that her son is sick and needs to go to the hosipital, meaning you are screwed for that wedding or party you planned to attend. So what do you do? Wigs!!, especially half wigs because they look less fake. I love these wigs, and they have saved me from what were to be horrible hair situations in the past.
All you do is clip the front to your mid hair, and clip the back to your back hair and its not going anywhere, comb and style and you're done.

Be on the look out for really stylish ones from HairbyAzara soon!

Normal Weave

Courtesy of Tasha'sBeautySupplies.

you know this one, Hair is cornrowed and then weft of hair is sewn to the cornrows.

EZ WEFT weave by Janet Collection

Courtesy of Janet Collection

-this technique is alittle bit complicating for me, its basically like crotcheting, because you are pulling a piece of your hair into the small hair that is provided. Useful for those of us that are looking to add bits of highlights to the hair.

So NOW you know the TERMS, you can go out there and make the proper REQUEST!

C-Hair-Meleon

2008-03-22T13:47:00.000-07:00

Wow, it seems everywhere I look people are changing their hair colors, Lord knows I am a huge fan of HAIR COLOR CHANGE!!! I have done everything from jet black, deep wine red to BLONDE BLONDE!!! (will never do that again). I find it very therapeutic, it's such a "new beginning" feel u know? like after a bad breakup, or recent weightloss, summer time, winter, spring, or when u move to a new city. Anyways, How do you know when a particular color is good for you? Well am no expert but I know its about what matches your skin tone. There's nothing worse than seeing a beautiful gurl do the wrong hair color. I know from watching top model that very fair complexion should not do Deep dark black because it is too dramatic, and beautiful dark chocolates should not go for oyibo BLONDE either (xcept if you're trying to make a statement), so to help with the decision making I have some pictures of some Hair-meleons (hair chameleons) that might inspire you! remember see a hair professional if you're thinking about coloring your actual tresses!! (I usually just weave my color #27, #33, #1B and so, over my natural color #4).

BEYONCE

I like this color; #27 with a hint of #30 and

her natural roots. Very sexy :) Not sure I like her with darker hair :(

Kelly Rowland

I love this natural #4 (or #1B) on her. I am a BIG fan of Highlights, but not really this crap! :(

it looks very cheap, esp. on a SINGER!

KEYSHIA COLE

She's such a Hair-Meleon, but I think I'll stay with the black, very nice with her olive-y complexion.

LIL'KIM

I can't mention Hair-Meleon without talking about Lil'Kim, WOW where do I begin? I never really liked the dramatic #27 blondes on her, I think my all time favorite will be the middle one. A bit of #30 and #33. Love it!

IMAN

I love her and I think that every single hair color she's done has worked for her. She knows how to pick the perfect colors to complement her beautiful complexion! Even this INTENSE deep wine red on the left!

KELIS

Another Natural Hair-Meleon, I think she switches her style like every minute. She must have some strong and healthy tresses to go from this VERY BLONDE to JET BLACK, I can't decide which look I love on her the best, I'll probably say the Black one. I just love simple understated Elegance. What do you think?

OMOTOLA

Every Nigerian Woman I know is a Hair-Meleon, so I had to include one of my favorite actresses, Although I did not do her justice by posting this pic. on the right, but OMO just do your staple #4 with #27 highlights!

NAOMI CAMPBELL

I think that we can all agree that that blonde move was the wrong move! I think she knows, nothing better than finding what works for her beautiful chocolate complexion, which is Color #4.

CIARA

First of all, I HATE the OYIBO blonde on my left!! HATE HATE HATE, not only is it OYIBO blonde but it is OYIBO hair! the lace wig is so silky and nice, it looks like she got it off Pamela Anderson and attached it to her hair! No!!! But I do love the chestnut colored tress in the middle and the dark brown on the right! Please just stick to those.

HOPE I helped you in your Hair-Color decision making, find a girl here that you feel matches your skin tone and decide if any of the hair colors she's tried fits you or not.

So what HAIR COLOR is your ALL TIME FAVORITE? on you and on your favorite celeb?

Tout Naturel!! (all Natural)

2008-03-20T15:33:00.000-07:00

So I have embarked on my second attempt to grow my hair au naturel, reason being that after much research I think that this will be the best way to get my hair to grow thicker and stronger. My first attempt at going au naturel began after watching the third season of "america's next top model" and seeing this gorgeous girl YAYA, watching the thickness of her natural hair underneath those braids convinced me that my hair too can do that. But after a year and a bucket full of tears from the many times I attempted to comb my hair, I went to my nearest pharmacy store and committed the ultimate no-no by RELAXING my OWN HAIR. So you might be wondering what makes me think that this time might be the last time? well I don't know how long I'll last on this journey of naturalness, I just know that my hair is asking me to let nature take her course..lol. Anyways please I need some tips from all my natural sisters out there!!! help me please!!!!

Natural Hair grows faster than relaxed hair because there are less instances of breakage due to the absence of chemicals. Here are some important tips from Professionals regarding Hair Maintenance:

1. Shampoo regularly: This stops hair from being dry and brittle. Don't forget to shampoo and condition with proper products.

2. Always massage scalp because it encourages growth.

3. Always condition. THIS IS CRUCIAL because it repairs all damage done while shampooing, and it coats hair with moisture. Products that contain Aloe and Rosemary work well because they stimulate growth.

4. Don't forget to DEEP CONDITION and use PROTEIN treatments.

5. Natural hair is very delicate and needs lost of Moisture.

6. Protect hair when u sleep, always wrap with a silk scarf because it promotes luster that decreases split ends.

7.Trim ends regularly

8. See a stylist regularly, just you see a doctor and dentist, it is important to see a stylist to learn more about the health of your hair!
***********************************************************************************

Here are some products that help in maintaining hair "Au Naturel"

For $12.50 This rosemary Mint Shampoo by Carol's daughter leaves your hair feeling tingly, which apparently stimulates growth. For more information on their products check out http://www.carolsdaughter.com/

Not exactly sure what indian hemp is ( I think it's a plant) but what i know is that I love this product, I have been using it for years! and it is wonderful. Not only does it smell great! and does it condition, this is perfect for natural hair because it helps hold the hair together, especially if you're tying your hair in a Bun! It is great for shine too!!

As you can see I am a big fan of MINT and tingling products! If you are also Dr. Miracle is amazing. So far all of his (or her) products are tingling and have this minty feel to it that makes your scalp feel rejuvenated!!. I have both the 2-in 1 shampoo and conditioner, as well as the temple and Nape balm. The temple and Nape grow balm is good for massaging the scalp to revitalize the growth of hair in the areas that are lacking. I have used both these products and I love them, they are fantastic!!

Anyways for more information on these products, check out their respective websites: http://www.carolsdaughter.com/, http://www.drmiracles.com/ (all pictures courtesies of the websites).

Hopefully, if I am Lucky my hair will come out rich and full like Yaya's! Wish me LUCK!! lol.

Don't Call it a COMEBACK!

2008-03-15T19:52:00.000-07:00

So word is that one of my favorite artist and hair-icons is making a comeback. After a lil hiatus from her last album "Aphrodisiac", my gurl Brandy is coming back and apparently working with Timberland, so you know the Album is going to be HOT!!!

In tribute for her new single "what have you done for me?" (good question) and new album, HairbyAzara will walk down memory lane with Brandy........

awww...I remember those braids, and how you burn the tips off so they have that sharp cut. Good times.

I don't know about you but I was betrayed when my girl left her signature Braids for weaves!! but being the hair fanatic I was, I loved her anyways. Come to think of it, how many western Celebs rock braids?

Brandy being the Hair-Icon she is,also spotted some Lace Wigs. I love this style simple and chic. So Natural!

It was only a matter of time before she came out with her own hair line, Pro-10, and I gotta say I love it! Feels like real Hair and it is Thick!

Gurl wat don't you look good in? I love this soft ringlets, so cute!

Whether it is : braids, weaves, wigs or her own hair, Brandy knows how to wear any hair fashion with style! just love this Gurl!!! she truly is a HAIR-ICON!!!

Who's dat HAIR??

2008-03-07T16:33:00.000-08:00

So you're chillin watching u some CHANNEL O, more like watching "O-boma" on channel O and you see a gorgeous "head of hair" belonging to a gorgeous host, so who's da gurl? No ONE other than the gorgeous Nonhle Thema. At 26, Nonhle's career is hotter than ever, not only is she the host of Oboma but she has a new show on Channel O called "O-access" where she travels all over the U.S and Europe interviewing your favorite artist. Nonhle first started as a beauty pagent winner and has been working her way up. HairbyAzara loves beautiful african sistas that do their things and look good doing it, here are some pics of the gorgeous South African Music Presenter from her website http://www.nonhlethema.com/ .

On the Set of O-Access (Just love dat red hair)

E.V.E!!! I love her!! her swagger, her style, you really can't mess with this chic.

This is my Favorite!!! I just love it, the brown and the slight bit of honey blonde, the cute bangs, the perfect curls!!! PERFECTION!!!

Stress-Free Spring Break!

2008-03-04T14:11:00.000-08:00

SPRING BREAK IS AROUND THE CORNER!! YAY!!! there is nothing worse than worrying about your hair during what is supposed to be a week of relaxation.

Three years ago I went to Jamaica with my girls for spring break and made the big mistake of wearing my weave. Not only was it a hassle to keep styling it , my hair was damaged and ruined by the end of the trip (thanks to being pushed into the pool). By the end of the trip I had to wear a tacky scarve with the rest of my bathing suit and cute dresses(URGGGG!!!!I can't even look at the pictures). While I has having the dilemma with my hair, my girls were smart enough to wear braids! Men did I envy them. All they had to do was wake up every morning and decide wether to have their hair tied up or let loose. Anyways, this spring break I don't plan on making the same mistake. But if your skeptical about braids (like I was), here are some pictures and ideas of how to achieve these beautiful styles without wasting your time.

1. PICK and DROP (wats da yankee or jand name for this?)

This is my all time favorite because not only does it look great!, you also don't have to braid your hair completely. What I normally do is that I "pick and drop" 1/2 of my head and then I weave the back half. And it comes out looking like I braided my whole scalp. God knows I can't sit for the whole 8 or however many hours it takes. This way usually takes about 4hrs or less depending on how small I want my braids to be.

Courtesy of Janet Collection

2. CORNROWS

There is no other stress free hair like the classic Cornrow. Permanently styled so all you have to do is oil your hair. This hair is especially helpful for those growing their hair natural.

(Courtesy of Essence Magazine)

3. PONYTAIL!

When in doubt, just get yourself a container of beeswax (I hate using gel because it brings your hair, at least it did mine) and a JANET COLLECTION ponytail and call it a day!

(Courtesy of Janet Collection)

Tip-ME TUESDAY!!!!

2008-03-04T13:46:00.000-08:00

Here are some safe at-Home recipes to care for ur beautiful hair:

For SHINY HAIR:

Try using a very ripe avocado before you wash your hair, as a pre-shampoo conditioning treatment. Massage it onto your hair and leave it for an hour, shampoo and then rinse.

To create the Smoothest Bun:

Use a firm toothbrush, add a bit of hair spray or gel and brush away all the small baby hair in front.

Want to style ur CURLY HAIR?
Try aloe vera gel, few drops of olive, grapeseed or avocado oil, mix it together and you have a great leave-in conditioning treatment.

Want to moisturize your DRY HAIR
Rinse your hair with warm water, pour about a tablespoon onto the palm of your hands, rub them together to warm up the oil and gently massage it onto your scalp and hair,
Continue doing this until your hair is covered evenly with oil, making sure the ends of your hair are treated.
Keep the oil on your hair for at least 30minutes, then rinse, shampoo and condition like you normally would.

At-Home PROTEIN-RICH CONDITIONER

(This nourishes hair and regenerates growth, while being mild and quick enough for everyday use)
Ingredients include:
· 2 tsp olive oil
· 2 egg yolk
· 1 cup distilled or filtered water

Beat egg yolk until its smooth and frothy, add oil and beat until well blended. Add to water and massage into scalp, then rinse thorougly.

And for those awful Bad Hair days, there is nothing better than a lovely Hat :)

Courtesy of Elle.com

*If you have other tips you would like to share, just email me with hairbyazara@gmail.com. Thanks :)

MEN and HAIR!!!

2008-03-03T19:28:00.000-08:00

I was recently reading the new Essence magazine (you know the one with Tyra on it, gotta love her!) and one of the questions was about what type of hair style black guys liked on their gurls. Well to my surprise, guess what the popular ones were:

1. Short hair because it exudes confidence

(courtesy of Essenc magazine)

2. Natural hair, because it was not bought or came in a plastic bag (whats wrong with that?).

(Courtesy of Essence Magazine)

3. Hair tied up in a bun. (my boyfriend’s favorite)

(Courtesy of Essence Magazine)

Interesting huh? But what I don’t understand is if guys love all this nice natural looking hair (I have nothing against them, I love them myself) then why do they go GA-GA for the beyonce’s, and tyra’s (lol am not obsessed). I mean I was at the club the other night and I saw my guy and his guy friends basically drool over this chick with crazy ass WEAVE!!! The thing was like down to hair waist, I swear, and here I was with my nice bun by my guy’s side, thinking “baby what about me now” (LOL). Anyways I beg to differ, but what I want to know though is if women were asked the same question what will they say?

Me? I know I love the "Meagan Good".

Long and Wavy with a bang by the side (but this one might be too long for me)

To WIG or not to WIG!

2008-03-02T13:52:00.000-08:00

Hair Courtesy of Indianlacewigs.com

What is this LACE FRONT WIG?

It seems like every where I look I see Lace wigs, at first I thought it was a celebrity thing but I went out last night with my girls and one of my friend’s coworker happened to be a Lace wig-er. At first look you think, damn gurl what ethnicity are you? But after a while, you just can’t stop staring because something looks funny about her hairline, u just can’t put ur finger on it. Why do they all have that ashy white hairline? Anyways being the Hair fanatic I am, I know am bound to try it. I heard it can last up to a month, and all you have to do is unglue, wash your hair, rebraid and glue again. The wig itself can be reused multiple times, for more information just look up lace wig, or you tube the application videos. Now am not sure if am willing to throw down $500. Anyways you be the judge.

I know Tyra is a huge Lace Wigger, remember that big hair thing she had going for a while, i.e her first season of the Tyra Banks show????