Giveaway Winner!! Bronx Natural Soy Candle

Thank you to everyone that entered The Bronx Naturals Candle Giveaway contest. Mellisa, owner and creator of the soy candles has chosen a winner. The winner is Johnetta Tucker!!! Congratulations Johnetta. Please email Melissa at thebronxnaturals@gmail.com, with your shipping address information. To everyone else that entered, please stay connected with the Naturally Beautiful Hair blog and look out for more great stories and giveaways.

A Toast to Tenacity

A Toast to Tenacity by financial literacy expert, author and lecturer Narcisse Dargenson

In the pursuit of wealth one may find many obstacles that will keep them from accomplishing their goals. For many would be business owners these obstacles include financing, execution and marketing. However another major obstacle that stands in the way for many people is negativity. It appears every time one has a dream or a goal that is outside the box of the norm one is faced with an onset of negativity. The negativity of people who don’t believe in your vision or don’t think it can come to pass. The negativity comes in the form of comments like “you can’t do that” or the famous two letter word “no”. 

The negativity can come from friends, family, executives, etc. The negativity is extremely hurtful when it comes from people that are close like friends and family. Yet one has no other choice but to keep going, keep trying and keep building towards your dreams. The interesting thing about our society is that it tends to be negative. Instead of encouraging dreams and ideas many people put them down. In some cases the negativity is a secret twisted form of envy. The person that is telling you no, is secretly afraid or your gifts and potential.  Many people are so insecure that they hurt other people’s ideas because they are afraid of being left behind. Some of the art and creativity we enjoy today would never have been a reality if negative people got their way. Many of the best businesses and success stories were the result of people who kept their dreams alive and never gave up on their passions.

“Tenacity (noun): the quality or state of being tenacious”. They Told Them No!

Some of the gate keepers of creativity could not recognize it even if it slapped them in the face.  Ms. Rowling was a teacher and worked for Amnesty International before she decided to write her first

book. It was during her train ride back and forth from Manchester to London that the idea came about for her first book Harry Potter ‘Philosopher’s Stone’. None of the original 12 publishers thought her creative expression would be worth anything. If she stopped after the 5th rejection she would never have become successful. According to J.K. Rowling “A lot of people didn’t want it,” Rowling said. “A lot… and for some reason, I was even quite pleased at the rejection letters – F. Scott Fitzergerald got rejection letters, it’s part of being a writer.” In spite of going through a difficult time in her life, Rowling persisted with the story. “I did really believe in it… I just had faith in the story. ”She had tenacity. Finally her manuscript was accepted by Bloomsbury Publishing. The Harry Potter series made Ms. Rowling a billionaire! She went from being told no to becoming a billionaire. She is the only author in history to ever become a billionaire.

“Tenacious (adjective): persistent in maintaining, adhering to, or seeking something valued or desired”

 The year was 1996 and a young Brooklyn rapper named Shawn Carter was introduced to the hip hop seen. What made Mr. Carter different than other rappers was the way he came into the hip hop industry. Mr. Carter better known as Jay-Z was in his mid-twenties at the time. During that time A&Rs and record executives passed him over because they felt he was too old for music. Record label after record label passed him over. Jay-Z did not let the executives stop his vision but kept trying and pushing. He ended up taking matters in his own hands and started his own independent record label. He created Roc-a-Fella records with two other partners Damon Dash and Kareem Burke. Fast forward to the future Jay-Z is one of the most successful rappers in history. He has over $45 million in album sales and has used that to influence and build a marketing, publishing and clothing empire. Imagine what would have happened if he listen to the creative gate keepers? “Knew if I paid my dues, how will they pay you,/ When you first come in the game, they try to play you/Then you drop a couple of hits, look how they wave to you”- Jay-Z. Keep Trying.

There are times when your dreams seem impossible but you must continue. Obstacles that come in your way are only there to make you stronger. One must continue to fight and try to accomplish their dream. One can always take a break from the stress of pursuing one’s dream but never give up. The alternative is a normal mediocre life that you will soon regret. Some people are built for the mandate 9 to 5 corporate life. While other people loath such an idea. One must search deep in their hearts to find out who they are. Are you different? Do you have dreams of having your own and being your own boss? If your dream is to be independent than keep trying!

Author: Narcisse Dargenson

Narcissedargenson.com

Natural Beauty - Quinnisha

Gorgeous photo shared by a Quinnisha. 

The Benefits of Using African Black Soap

One increasingly popular choice for natural hair care today is African black soap. This all natural product works wonders and provides a wide range of benefits. Once you see what it is, and the advantages that it brings to the table, you'll certainly want to consider giving it a try as well and making a switch from your current products.

African black soap is an all-natural cleanser originating from countries such as Nigeria and Ghana. It includes ingredients such as Shea butter, plantain peels, and cocoa and palm oils, and it never includes unnatural components such as dyes or harmful chemicals. African black soap is rich in vitamins, antioxidants and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin E, and iron.

While it is traditionally sold in large blocks, today, African black soap is also made into healthy, natural shampoos and hair care products. It will help impart your hair with a beautiful, natural, fresh and wondrous clean and glow. You'll be able to prevent issues such as common breakouts or oily skin, as well as eczema, psoriasis, dandruff and numerous other skin conditions, and you'll even gain added bonuses such as increased natural UV protection. Of course, it's not just about what African black soap provides. It's also about what it avoids, which in turn offers its own wonderful set of benefits and
advantages. African black soap never contains sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), a chemical which has been proven time and again to be harmful and carry a number of serious health consequences. SLS is used in thousands of cosmetic products, but it's also used in products such as industrial cleaners. That doesn't sound like something which is healthy and natural for your hair and skin, does it? Of course not, and there's a huge spectrum of legitimate research out there which shows just how problematic this ingredient can be. The consequences could include minor irritation of your skin or eyes, to much more serious issues such as organ toxicity, neurotoxicity, endocrine and reproductive problems, and an increased risk of cancer.

If you're ready to try something new and potentially unlock a wonderful secret to happy, healthy and natural hair, then check out African black soap and experience the benefits for yourself. Your hair will look and feel better, and you can be confident knowing that you're doing more to stay natural and avoid harmful chemicals.

Author: John Weisman
Writer for 1001-hairstyles.com

Giveaway Winner!! 7 Bottles of Pure Ice Nail Polish

Thank you to everyone that participated in the Pure Ice Nail Polish Giveaway.  A wonderful representative from Pure Ice has chosen a winner. The winner is Hadespark!!! Hadespark - please contact me at naturalhairbeauty@gmail.com with your shipping address information.

For everyone that did not win this time, I am hoping to host another giveaway soon. So please be on the look-out!

Happy Holidays ~ Karen

Singer Shea Rose

Just discovered these great photos of singer Shea Rose. Gorgeous hair and style!

Love this Artist Sketch

I found this art work on Pinterest. But there was no direct artist link. So I am unsure of the artist name. But I love this!

The Bronx Natural Soy Candle Giveaway

Mellissa from the The Bronx Naturals Soy Candles is hosting a giveaway on the Naturally Beautiful Hair blog.  I love The Bronx Naturals Soy Candles because not only do they smell really good, but it's not to strong for someone like me, that has asthma. The candles have a great smell but is perfect for someone that has avoided candles in the past, because of the heavy perfume scents.

For the giveaway, one lucky winner will win one 11 oz Soy candle (you choose the scent), that comes with a gift bag and tissue paper.




To win this contest, you must do the following:

1. Go to The Bronx Naturals website and reply to this post telling us which scent you are interested in trying?
2. Like The Bronx Naturals Facebook page.
3. Be a follower of this blog.

The contest will end on  November 26, 2012. Good luck!

P.S. **Everyone that follows this blog will receive 15% off there entire purchase Use Code: D3115B!!

Natural Girls United! New Dolls

Natural hair inspired dolls from Natural Girls United!

Pure Ice - 7 bottles of Nail Polish Giveaway!

I love Pure Ice Nail Polish! I started wearing their nail polish last year, and I am excited to see the new colors they this year. For this giveaway, Pure Ice is giving away 3 bottles of nail polish!! The 3 polishes are:


Pure Ice Risk Taker
Pure Ice Glass of Bordeaux
Pure Ice Kiss me Here

And as a bonus, I am including 4 brand new unopened polished from my Pure Ice crackle nail polish collection. 2 sets of Platinum Magic Base Coat and 2 sets of Emcee Me!

• To enter this contest, please check out Pure Ice Nail Polish Sneak Peak photo album on Facebook, and reply to this post letting us know which of their new polishes you love the most. 
• To win, you must also be a follower of this blog.

The contest will end on Saturday, November 24th, at midnight. One lucky reader will win 7 nail polishes! Best of luck.


P.S. Here is a great photo from Pure Ice that showcases some of their new colors. Love it!

Photograher Könjo Kalönji

Talented Photographer Könjo Kalönji has an opportunity to be nominated as Fashion Photographer of the year for the MD Fashion Awards. Let's help nominate her by going to Fashion Awards MD. Go to the bottom of the page and click 'Start Survey'.  They will ask for her name and her contact info, which is: Konjo.Kalonji@yahoo.com.

Best of luck Könjo!

Aunt Jackie's Curls & Coils

Check out a new brand of hair care products called AuntJackie’s Curls & Coils. The line has products for different textures of hair – Curly, Wavy and Kinky!  As well has having a great site that includes tons of information and a Naturalista Club, the packaging for their products are colorful, fun and inviting.

Here is more about their brand: “Get ready to put some spring in your coils! Aunt Jackie's solutions provide manageability and softness to all hard-to-manage hair textures. Coily and Kinky hair most commonly have "Z" shaped coil patterns. These tighter textures absorb moisture like a sponge, causing the hair to look and feel chronically dry. Further, attempting to train tight texture by excessive tugging, combing and brushing can easily lead to breakage and damage. The best way to effectively manage coily and kinky hair is to keep it clean, well moisturized, conditioned and soft.  Thank goodness Aunt Jackie's has exactly what you need.”

To learn more about Aunt Jackie's products, go to Aunt Jackies Curls & Coils and you can also see more on their Facebook Page. 

Click 'read more" to read Aunt Jackie's hair care regiment.... 

Follow Aunt Jackie's regimen, below, to care for super soft coils, afros, puffs, braid outs and twists:

STEP 1: CLEANSE              

Coily and Kinky-textured hair should be shampooed, as needed, but no less than every 2-3 weeks, as build up on the scalp can prevent healthy growth.  Use SULFATE-FREE, Oh So Clean! Moisturizing and Softening Shampoo to thoroughly cleanse, while replenishing with essential moisture and oils. Don't vigorously shampoo. Work into a lather by gently massaging scalp to lift impurities, then rinse and repeat, washing scalp and hair. 

STEP 2: CONDITION        

Regardless of your texture, the triple action of Aunt Jackie's, In Control, helps to soften, moisturize and deep condition. Use it as a general-use conditioner or as a reconstructive treatment. For extremely tight and kinky textures, use In Control Moisturizing and Softening Conditioner as a Co-Wash (Conditioning Wash) to assist in softening the hair, even more, while cleansing. To use it as a Co-Wash, thoroughly wet hair, gently massaging the scalp to help lift impurities.  Then, coat hair with In Control and massage hair and scalp in a gentle shampooing motion.  Rinse from hair, then reapply.  Follow directions below for general use, or as a reconstructive treatment. For general-use,after shampooing, apply to clean, towel-dried hair, coating from roots to ends.  Leave on for 3 minutes and thoroughly rinse.  As a reconstructive, deep conditioning treatment, apply generously, then cover hair with a plastic cap. Sit under a warm hooded dryer for 10 minutes before thoroughly rinsing.

STEP 3: DETANGLE          

Coily, Kinky textures are a huge challenge to comb. That is, until now! Knot On My Watch Instant Detangling Therapy makes combing easier.  Watch the comb glide through hard-to-manage hair, while ultra-hydrating humectants restore a healthy moisture balance. Apply generously to hair, concentrating more on difficult areas.  Always use a wide tooth comb and never force the comb through tangles.  Work through tangled areas by taking sections of the hair, gently combing the ends then working your way upward to the roots. 

STEP 4:  STYLE

Choose your signature style and then lock it in using Curl La La Defining Curl Custard.  Because it won't flake or cake, you can use it on wet or slightly damp hair. To create coils, twists or braid outs, apply a small amount to sections of damp hair, while twisting, braiding, or setting on rollers or rods.   Sit under a hooded dryer on a warm setting (higher setting if hair is freshly shampooed), or allow to completely air dry. Once dry, release hair, finger-styling into desired  style.  For Afros and Puffs, generously massage Curl La La into hair and scalp. Style and adorn as desired.

AUNT JACKIE'S TIP: During styling, apply just a dab of Curl La La to fingertips as you release twisted, braided or roller-set hair.  This will give your coily look added sheen and softness. Kinkier textures tend to absorb moisture and look dry, So, finish your style with a touch of oil.  Aunt Jackie's favorite is Africa's Best Instant Herbal Oil.  The natural blend of oils leaves a brilliant sheen, while providing added softness.             

Big Chop App Coming Soon

Now there's an iPhone App for women with natural hair. The Big Chop App. Try on over 250+ natural hairstyles and accessories. Coming soon to the App Store. Follow @CapCityApps for more info. And check out & 'Like' CapCityApps on Facebooks at CapCityApps!

Silk Hair Flower Giveaway Winner!!!

The winner of the Silk Hair Flower Giveaway is Betty J.!!  Congratulations Betty. Please email Fatima of Flowers of Fatima directly at flowersfromfatima@gmail.com.

Thank you everyone for participating. Please look out for more giveaways.

Petaled Loc Fro

Love the Loc Petal Fro Style! It is a style I have seen around for a couple of months now.  Thanks to Franchesca Ramsey (Chescalocs), now I know exactly how to create the style. I can't wait to try it out!

Bantu Knots

I just found this gorgeous picture online of a women wearing Bantu Knots. My mom, who is newly natural, is trying the Bantu Knots to achieve coil curls.  It just goes to show, that it is never to late to get back to your roots. 

nuNAAT's Karité Special With Shea Butter

I received some great products from nuNATT called Karité Special With Shea Butter. The Karité Special With Shea Butter line includes Karité Nourishing Shampoo, Karité Reconstructive Conditioner

Karité Special Deep Conditioning Hair Mask, Karité Special Leave-In Detangler (Combing Cream) and the Karité Thermo Active Anti-Frizz. It is a great hair care set that is perfect for curly and thick hair.

Here is more information about the products - "Packed with Vitamins and Nourishing Shea Butter

Our advanced karit formula with shea butter relieves dryness and restores hair's healthy balance, leaving it soft and shiny. Widely considered one of the best shea butter hair care collections on the market today. Shea butter is a slightly yellowish or ivory-colored natural fat extracted from the fruit of the Shea tree found in Africa. Shea butter is one of the richest emollients on the market, providing ultraviolet protection without a greasy feeling. The hair products are also packed with vitamin A, D, E and F; protects hair from harmful sun damage. There is no oily buildup or greasy residue; No clogged pores. It also rehydrates, restores and revitalizes dry, damaged and brittle hair; restores natural brilliance to chemically-processed hair and protects hair from damage caused by daily flat iron use. To find a store that carries NuNAAT in your area, click here.

Ivy Charlaine's Hair Story

Name: 'Ivycharlaine'

Q: What is your hair story?  What kind of hair styles have you rocked, before embracing your natural hair?

A: Wow my hair story is crazy and was very unpredictable.  I've gone from getting relaxers to flat ironing my hair and keeping it super long to dyeing it blonde, brown & red at times.  I've also chopped it all off and shaved the back.  This was all before I decided to go natural.

Q: When and why did you decide to start wearing your hair naturally?

A: I decided to go natural a little over 3 years ago.  I was at a point in my life where my hair was shoulder length and dyed a dark blonde/light brown color and was super damaged from heat and dye.  I hadn't had a relaxer in almost ten years at that time however my hair was so damaged that it would barely curl when it was wet.  I also started noticing women with beautiful, big, curly natural hair and I loved it so I made the decision to go natural.  Which to me meant putting down my flat iron and growing out the damaged parts of my hair (basically my whole head lol).

Q: Did you have any big fears about going back to your natural texture?

A: I was a little nervous about the unknown.  I had basically worn my hair straight for my entire life (except when I was a kid) so I wasn't sure how my hair would look natural and I couldn't even remember what my curls looked like.

Q: What are three products you can't live without for nurturing/styling your hair?

A: First off I think water is the #1 best thing for your hair.  I also love, love, love coconut oil and Shidanaturals moisturizing cream. 

Q: What would you say to someone who's thinking about embracing their natural hair, but scared about being rejected in various parts of their lives?

A: Just do it! I'm so glad I made that decision.  I absolutely love my hair and I love that it's different, unique and all my own.  Don't worry about society's view on natural hair, because lately that's been changing a lot and you see a lot of natural beauties in the media and in the workplace.  Embrace the natural beauty that God has blessed you with.  I straighten my hair every now and then but I get so excited when I go back to my curls.

Q: How can we keep up with you and your journey?

A:  You can follow me on Instagram, Facebook, & YouTube under my username Ivycharlaine.  You can also check out my website www.ivycharlaine.com

Congratulations Mr. President

Congratulations to our President of the United States of America, for winning a second term of Presidency!  

President Barack Obama
Main website
Facebook
Twitter
Flickr Photo Album

Vote!

Wonderful Day! Voted for the candidate that I thought was best for our country. I hope that everyone had the chance to vote today. 

Cantu Shea Butter's Natural Hair Care Line

The Cantu Shea Butter line has a new website that will be launching soon.  I for one, am excited to see their new site. Cantu  Shea butter has a new line of Natural Hair products. Some of the products that are apart of the line are the Coconut Shine and Hold Mist, Coconut Styling Cream and Creamy Hair Lotion. 

Cantu is one of my go to brands. I love their thick No Drip Oil.  It makes my scalp feel healthy and moisturized. Some of the ingredients are shea, aloe vera, jojoba, coconut oil and milk. 

Cantu Shea Butter products can be found Walmart, Walgreens and Target. 

Alanis's Curls

Here are some gorgeous photos of Alanis! Her mom Claudia tells us a little big about her – “I personally love natural hair, so I’m trying to keep my daughter the same way. She’s interracial and has beautiful curly hair. I try to use only non-alcohol products. I love the Pantene curly line on her hair. Her name is Alanis, she’s 4 years old and absolutely loves her curls :-)."

Revlon Makeup

I recently tried some really great makeup from Revlon that included lipsticks, brow color, eye liner, blushes, bronzers and eye shadows. I love all of their make up and rich colors. One of my favorite products of theirs is the cream blush. I helps to give me a healthy glow and use it almost daily.  I am so busy, that I rarely get to play and try out new things. So I am so happy that I had a chance to try my new makeup from Revlon. Revlon makeup can be found at local drug stores, Target and more.  You can also connect with the brand on Facebook.

Beautiful Little Eden

 Pictures of Eden, who was photographed by Kylie Pokere.