It’s no secret that we take haircare very seriously. However, today, let’s have a little fun! Every head of hair is unique, some requiring more TLC in particular areas than others, but we all tend to measure our “hair fitness” according to a few general concerns. We’re coming through with a special game of “This or That,” the "hair fitness” edition, covering 5 areas of concern: Definition, Detangling, Moisture, Breakage, and Scalp Care. Play along and pick which contenders suit you best!

1. DEFINITION

Round 1: Products 

 

COCONUT SHEA CURL DEFINING CREME

An OG fan-favorite, this thick, humidity-resistant styling cream is known for providing medium hold, helping to make even the coiliest of curls pop! It’s specially designed for high density hair and delivers moisture along with the definition. Stand out ingredients: Coconut Oil, Shea Butter, Aloe Vera, Avocado Oil, Rice Extract, and Jojoba Oil. It’s ideal for wash ‘n gos or stretched styles like twist-outs or braid-outs.

 

OR

 

 

ALMOND MARSHMALLOW HYDRATION SERUM

Nicknamed “Liquid Gold” by customers, this jelly-like serum slips and slides through all textures of hair, providing unmatched shine and definition with soft-medium hold. Its lightweight formula smooths down the hair shaft to combat frizz and frayed ends. It hydrates and protects hair against daily pollutants. Reputable ingredients: Sweet Almond Oil, Marshmallow Root Extract, and Aloe Vera. Great for wash ‘n go styles + slicking back updos!

 

Round 2: Methods 

 

RAKING

The raking method refers to applying product to wet curls by using your hand as a comb and “raking” it through the hair, from root to tip, section by section. This takes a moderate amount of time, depending on hair length and density. It leaves behind defined “day one” hair, with moderate volume prior to fluffing or picking.

 

OR

 

 

SHINGLING

During the shingling method, product is applied to the hair overall (wet), then each curl is individually coated, clumped and twirled, one by one. This tends to take a considerable amount of time, leaving behind highly defined “day one” hair, with minimal volume prior to fluffing or picking.

 

 

 

 

2. DETANGLING

Round 1: Products 

 

PEPPERMINT TEA TREE CONDITIONER

Minty and refreshing, this rinse-out conditioner provides quality slip to varying hair textures. It’s creamy, but not super thick, so it spreads through curls with ease, providing a tingling sensation that’s therapeutic to the scalp. It’s built to fortify and soften the hair, especially following a clarifying shampoo. Peppermint Oil, Tea Tree Oil, Jojoba Oil, Sweet Almond Oil, Castor Oil and Carrot Seed Oil are just a few of its knockout ingredients.

 

OR

 

 

HIBISCUS HONEY CURL HYDRATION CONDITIONER

This hidden gem can serve as a rinse-out or leave-in conditioner. Soft and sweet-smelling, its lightweight consistency provides major slip to curls while also penetrating them with hydration. Key ingredients: Hibiscus Flower Extract, Honey, Shea Butter, Coconut Oil, and Aloe Vera.

 

 

Round 2: Tools

 

 

BRUSH WITH THE BEST, FELICIA LEATHERWOOD BRUSH

Made with incredible flexibility, this brush is only bonded on three sides, unlike most brushes, which are bonded on all four sides. These “flexi-bristles” provide fluidity, allowing them to move with the hair, which prevents pulling and breakage from occurring. It was crafted by professional stylist and Hollywood’s Natural Hair Guru, Felicia Leatherwood (@lovingyourhair).

 

OR

 

 

WIDE TOOTH COMB

Simple, yet effective, this OG tool gets the job done. It’s a comb with teeth set spaciously apart from one another, to prevent breakage to curls.

 

 

3. MOISTURE 

Round 1: Products

HIBISCUS HONEY HYDRATION CUSTARD

Thick and ready to hydrate, this custard moisturizes while it styles. It helps smooth and strengthen the hair + define curls with a soft-medium hold that’s perfect for twist-outs, braid-outs and other stretched styles. It works particularly well on high density curls and coils. Made with Hibiscus Flower Extract, Coconut Oil, Shea Butter, Rice Extract and Aloe Vera, it’s sure to fight off dryness! 

OR

 

CITRUS FUSION HAIR + BODY BUTTER

Don’t let this product’s dual purpose fool you, it delivers when it comes to moisture - whether it’s used on the hair or skin. Loaded with antioxidants and nutrients, this butter provides intense hydration, leaving behind moisturized tresses (and skin) that’s soft to the touch. Castor Oil, Acai Fruit Extract, Aloe Vera, Honey, Grape Seed Oil, and Avocado Oil are just a few of its impactful ingredients.

 

Round 2: Practices

 

HAIR MASQUE TREATMENTS

This type of treatment involves thoroughly applying a designated hair masque or deep conditioner to the hair, especially focusing on the ends, which tend to be the oldest and driest part of the strand. Cover the hair with a plastic cap, and let the product work its magic for a minimum of 15 minutes before rinsing it out. Those with low porosity hair (when moisture doesn’t easily absorb into the strand) may also want to sit under a hooded dryer or heat cap to ensure the product penetrates. The frequency of these treatments depends on the individual; they can be done as often as every wash day, or as seldom as once per month.

OR

 

 

HOT OIL TREATMENTS

An age-old practice, hot oil treatments are an effective way to saturate the hair with moisturizing nutrients. A number of different oils can be used or even mixed together to perform the treatment; some of the most commonly used are  Olive Oil, JojOba Oil, and Coconut Oil. One of the most effective ways to carry out a treatment is to thoroughly apply the oil from root to tip, then cover the hair with a plastic cap. Sit under a hooded dryer or heat cap for 15-30 minutes, then rinse. Heat opens up the hair cuticle, allowing the benefits of the oil(s) to penetrate.

 

 

 

 

4. BREAKAGE 

Round 1: Products

 

JOJOBA MONOI DEEP CONDITIONER

Another OG customer fave, this deep conditioner is thick and packed with nutrients. It treats hair that’s damaged from daily manipulation, heat styling, coloring or over-processing. It penetrates strands with moisture, locks it in, and smoothes out the cuticle, boosting the hair’s overall strength and integrity. It’s key ingredients are Jojoba Oil, Tiare Flower, Coconut Oil, Chamomile, Sweet Almond Oil, Castor Oil, and Tea Tree Oil.

OR 

 

 

ALMOND MARSHMALLOW SPLIT END REPAIR MASQUE

This masque has incredible slip! It melts right into the hair and smoothes out frayed ends. It infuses restorative ingredients into each strand, protecting the hair from snagging or becoming rough and brittle. Sweet Almond Oil, Marshmallow Root Extract, Cocoa Butter, Aloe Vera and Coconut Oil are its top performing ingredients.

 

 

Round 2: Protective Styles 

 

MINI BRAIDS

Shelter-in-place has inspired many to try out DIY protective styles like this one. Mini braids are a series of small braids installed on natural hair, no extensions added. It’s super cute, and the style can last for weeks if the hair and scalp are regularly moisturized and cared for. 

OR

 

 

KNOTLESS BRAIDS

Trending right now, this style is very similar to traditional box braids, except the braiding hair isn’t added at the root. Instead, the extensions are gradually added to a person’s natural hair in small portions as the braid continues down, feed-in style. The result is: more “natural” looking roots, with less weight, tension and pulling. Knotless braids can last for many weeks, if the hair and scalp are properly cared for on a regular basis.

 

  

 

5. SCALP CARE 

Round 1: Products

 

PEPPERMINT TEA TREE HAIR OIL

Scalp therapy in a bottle! This Hair Oil contains a unique blend that quickly absorbs and penetrates into the hair and scalp. It leaves behind a tingling sensation that helps stimulate blood circulation + relieve itching. The essential oils within its mix also work to treat dandruff without leaving behind buildup. What does it consist of? Sweet Almond Oil, Peppermint Oil, Coconut Oil, Jojoba Oil, Tea Tree Oil, Lavender Oil, Rosemary Oil and more!

OR

 

 

PAPAYA CASTOR SCALP MASSAGING SERUM

This daily scalp treatment was formulated to provide hydration and nourishment at the root. It’s a lightweight serum that readily absorbs into the scalp. It soothes and cools, promoting a healthy environment for hair growth - great to use while protective styling! Ingredient highlight: Papaya Fruit Extract, Castor Oil, Mango Seed Butter, and Aloe Vera.

 

Round 2: Practices

 

SCALP OILING

Oiling the scalp is self-explanatory. It’s a way to alleviate itching, prevent dandruff and promote growth. While a number of different oils can be used, it’s important to opt for those that easily absorb into the skin to assure the scalp is actually reaping benefits. Some examples: Peppermint oil, Tea Tree Oil, Coconut Oil and Jojoba Oil. Many routinely treat their scalp with oil on a daily or every other day basis.

 

OR

 

 

CO-WASHING

Co-washing is a practice intended to remove buildup between regular shampoos. Essentially, it means using a conditioner to wash the hair. Co-washes are conditioners containing very gentle cleansing agents that can break down product build-up on the scalp and hair while also infusing moisture back into them. Co-washing does not replace regular shampoo sessions, but it can be especially beneficial to those prone to buildup. As an example, if a person normally shampoos every 10 days, on day 5, they would co-wash.

 

 

Congratulations! You made it to the end of our “This or That” game. We’d love to hear your results! In the comments below, be sure to share which matchups were your favorites, along with your winning picks.

 

 

 

 

 

WHAT IS THE CAUSE OF DRY HAIR?

Diet

As one may suspect, a number of factors can cause dry hair, diet being a top contributor. Consuming foods that are high in sodium can dry out the body. Naturally, it will rehydrate itself by pulling moisture that’s been on reserve in other parts of the body, including (but not limited to) the skin/scalp and ultimately, the hair.  How do you balance that out? Drink more water! It seems simple, because it is. Our bodies are primarily made up of water, so to keep them healthy, functioning, and flourishing - even for beauty purposes - we must continue to hydrate with water, otherwise we’ll see the negative impact both internally and externally. How much water should you be aiming to drink? It’s generally recommended for the average adult to drink about 64 ounces of plain water per day, but it never hurts to discuss exact quantities with a doctor first, because every case is unique.

Hair Type

When we say hair type, we aren’t referring to the chart that names your curl pattern by number and letter (for example, 3b, 4a, and etc.). We’re talking about how porous your hair strand is, a factor that is not dependent on its curl pattern. Hair porosity is a measure of the hair’s ability to absorb and retain moisture + the speed at which it does so. More technically, it refers to how tightly bound the outer layer of the hair strand (the cuticle) is.

A simple test can be performed at home to determine your porosity type. Below are a few characteristics of each type:

Low Porosity: The cuticle layer is very tightly bound, which makes it difficult for moisture to enter the strand. Low porosity hair does absorb moisture, however, it takes a very long time for it to do so. Because of this, products + oil may appear to sit on the hair instead of penetrate it. To help speed up the moisture absorption rate when styling, try using a hair steamer/applying product while in a steamy room (like after a hot shower), and sitting under a hooded dryer/using a heat cap whenever deep conditioning.

Medium Porosity: The cuticle layer is neither tightly bound nor lined with gaps. It doesn’t take a long time for the hair to dry, but it also doesn’t dry particularly fast. Medium porosity hair holds styles well, and doesn’t have trouble retaining moisture.

High Porosity: The cuticle layer has many gaps and holes. While moisture is easily absorbed, the hair dries back out very quickly, making it difficult to retain that moisture. It is important to note that one can naturally have high porosity hair, however, it’s common for repeated usage of heat tools and chemicals (such as hair dye) to cause strands to become more porous over time. Those with high porosity hair should especially avoid using heat; opt to air-dry only. Using sealant products after a moisturizer will help with retention, as well as using cool or lukewarm water to rinse the hair whenever possible.

 

 

HOW DO YOU TREAT DRY NATURAL HAIR?

 

Products

The food and water put into the body are essential, but the products put onto the hair are too! Choose products that are both sulfate-free and paraben-free. Sulfates, mostly found in shampoos, tend to dry out any hair type; they strip strands of their naturally produced oils and moisture. If you’re struggling with dry hair, it may even be useful to introduce co-washing to your routine. A Co-Wash is a conditioner formulated with very gentle cleansing agents. It removes build up, restores moisture, and can be used to detangle. A Co-Wash should not replace your regular shampoo, but rather help give the hair and scalp a refresh and extra conditioning between regular washes.  

 

 

 

When styling, go for moisturizers that have water listed as the first ingredient. Water is the ultimate source of hydration, so any product that contains a high amount can be beneficial when combating dryness. Products with primarily natural ingredients are healthy + safe for all hair types, however, it can be especially helpful to choose a product line based how its ingredients are known to perform with your porosity level.

Low Porosity: Products with Coconut Oil are particularly beneficial to low porosity hair because this oil absorbs into the skin and hair with ease, unlike some others which seal, but do not easily absorb. JojOba Oil is a great option for that reason as well. Peppermint + Tea Tree Oil can help break down product buildup that tends to sit on low porosity hair over time. 

Medium Porosity: This porosity level often performs best with products that are not super thick or heavy.  Sweet Almond Oil  is ideal because it’s lightweight, yet effective at maintaining the hair’s natural moisture while keeping strands protected.

High Porosity: Products containing Honey will be your best friend. Honey is a natural humectant, which means it helps to preserve moisture. Products with Castor Oil are also a go to! Castor Oil is great at sealing in moisture, especially on hair that absorbs liquid it quickly; Shea Butter too!

It’s important to note that while certain ingredients and product lines may be specifically helpful to certain hair types, it doesn’t mean they are exclusively beneficial to those types; that’s the great thing about natural ingredients! 

 

Regimen

Finally, we can’t discuss treating dry natural hair without covering technique and regimen! Choosing the right products is a great first step, but using them in an effective order is equally important. For example, if someone has brittle hair and is struggling to retain moisture, it would not be ideal to apply just a gel or an oil straight after washing without first applying a moisturizing product. Some commonly practiced techniques to achieve the utmost amount of moisture are referred to as the LOC and LCO methods. When using either of these methods, each step/product type must be included, but the order of the last two steps varies depending on personal preference. However, oftentimes, those with low porosity prefer LCO, while those with high porosity sway towards LOC. 

L = Liquid	O = Oil	C = Cream
Water, or a quality Leave In Conditioner	An Oil that either penetrates the hair shaft, or seals in moisture	A styling cream, custard, pudding or butter that moisturizes, but also provides definition + hold

 

 

Once you’ve locked in which application method works best for you, it’s important to practice it on every wash day. Sticking to a regimen is essential because it gives the hair a chance to adjust and fully reap the benefits. While every person’s routine may vary a bit, a general regimen that can be followed to maintain healthy hair and scalp + lock in that moisture is: 

 

 

Deep conditioning is crucial, especially for dry or damaged hair! No matter the hair type or texture, a quality deep conditioner should be a staple in your routine every time you shampoo. Allow the product to set into your hair under a plastic cap for at least 30 minutes (Bonus: add heat for penetration). How often you should be washing and styling is dependent upon your individual lifestyle and habits.  

 

 

Also, keep in mind that protective styling can be a viable option to help treat dry hair. When tresses are tucked away and not being manipulated for stretches of time, they’re generally able to hold on to moisture for longer periods of time as well. However, even when protective styling, the steps mentioned above should be taken prior to the style’s installation. While wearing any protective style, be sure to treat the scalp + re-moisturize the hair with a light liquid or leave in, and seal the ends at least once per week. 

 

 

 

 

Watch The Twist-Out Technique Playlist (8 Videos)

 

For Soft-Hold, Loose-Wavy Definition - Twist & Curl 

For Medium-Hold, Wavy Cork-Screw Definition - 3 Strand Twist

For Medium Hold, Tight Cork-Screw Definition- 2 Strand Twist Out

For Strong Hold, Tight Cork-Screw Definition- Flat Twist Out

6 Tips For Keeping Temporary Extensions Healthy:

1. When sleeping, or when possible, remove extensions to reduce tension
2. Make sure hair that is left out is moisturized
3. Avoid constant heat styling and use thermal protection
4. Gently wash & care for your scalp ( apply a balm, hairdress, or oil to scalp)
5. Deep condition and detangle your own hair every 2-3 weeks
6. Use a conditioning product on edges to prevent drying them out

Watch The Playlist

#5: Side Bangs Tapered Cut ( w/ clip-ins)

#4: Low Sleek Ponytail On A  Short Natural TWA

#3: No Heat Sleek Low Braided Pony ( w/ added hair)

#2: Perm Rod Curly Fro ( w/ clip-ins for volume)

#1:  Half Up Bun ( w/ clip-ins for length & volume)

Ready to get dolled up? We’re here to help! The next week or two is likely filled with friends, family, and parties, which means more opportunities to try out some of those super cute hairstyles you’ve been saving in your screenshot gallery. To provide a little extra inspo, we’ve got a few gorgeous glam looks to share of our own! 

 

The Half & Half 

Featuring @curlsandcouture

 

Products used: Papaya Castor Scalp Cleanser, Conditioning Hairdress + Scalp Massaging Serum and Hibiscus Honey Blow Dry Cream + Hydration Custard

To nourish, protect from heat + stretch!

 

  

 

The Halo Braid

Featuring @syeda_bombom

Bonus, this serves as a protective style too!

 

Product Used: Coconut Shea Curl Defining Creme

To moisturize, hold + add shine!

 

 

 

The Low Pony

Featuring @heydonae

Another ‘do that serves as a protective style! 

 

Product Used: Papaya Castor Foam Conditioner

To smooth down frizz!

 

  

 

The Side Pin-Back

Featuring @heycurlie

 

Products Used: Papaya Castor Scalp Cleanser, Foam Conditioner, Scalp Massaging Serum, + Nourishing Curl Jam

To set + seal!

 

 

***

 

 

 

Arrive rockin’ any of these fabulous styles, and you’re sure to have a #hautegirlholiday! In the comments below, tell us which look is your favorite! Also, be sure to tag us in your photos using the hashtag #StylewithEDEN, should you try your hand at one.

 

Happy Holidays!

 

See you next year!

 

It’s that time of year again! Holiday gatherings + festive themes and decorations are everywhere you turn. While this season can be fun and exciting for some, it can also bring about anxiety, depression, and a number of other mental health concerns for many others. If you’re having a tough time, please know, you are not alone! To provide a little support, we reached out to a few black women experts in the mental health field for a few tips on combating the anxiety that the holidays can bring. 

TIP #1

“Mental health and physical health go hand in hand. Make sure you’re making your physical health a priority by staying active and eating clean, nutrient-rich foods. Eat at least 3 balanced meals a day, get out of the house and go for walks, or get some gym time in a few times a week. Prioritize these necessary acts of self care!”

 

Serving Washington, DC

 

 

 

TIP #2

 “Get Enough Rest. For some, excitement can kick in during the holidays. Sometimes you’ll lose sleep because of stress, and sometimes you’ll lose sleep because of excitement. Either way, you’ll be doing yourself a favor by concentrating on relaxation and getting to bed at a good hour. If you start a pattern of getting less than 7-8 hours of sleep per night, you could be setting yourself up for stress without even really knowing it, thus, making it harder to maintain your mental wellness during this time of year.”

 

Serving South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee & Florida

 

 

 

TIP #3

“In general, people become more consumed with responding to and meeting the needs of others than they do for themselves. This can lead us to feeling drained, resentful, and just plain unhappy. The holiday season brings these levels higher than normal, as we find ourselves interacting with more folks more frequently, with more demands. I highly recommend for people to use this rule every day, and especially during the holiday season: NO SOCIAL MEDIA  UNTIL AFTER LUNCH. How we start our day impacts how we live our day out. If your first action of each day is checking on others via social media, you will train your brain to do this throughout the day and will do so compulsively. It ain’t good for ya! Take each morning to focus on YOU first. Wake up and ask yourself how you want to feel today. Then, close your eyes and visualize how you will look and feel today. Doing so will get you in the habit of checking in with YOU first and help you keep your balance a little better this holiday season.”

 

Serving Inglewood, CA

 

 

 

TIP #4

“We’re about two weeks beyond the dreaded Gregorian calendar box which tricks us to believe we gain an extra hour of sleep. The sun bids us adieu, shortening our daylight hours. This adopted time management system related to agriculture and energy-saving can cause a grand shift in the mental health processes of many. And while an extra hour of sleep seems rewarding, our brains tell a different story: Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), also known as seasonal depression may be a negative consequence November through early spring. Want to know a practical way to increase the amount of serotonin, the neurotransmitter thought to be responsible for your mood, sleep, appetite, and social behavior? Create your own sunshine. That’s right, I said it. But, how? Creating your own sunshine means laying out boundaries in your environment to reduce triggers. Because frankly, who can see the sun when clouds are in the way? This can mean not going to a family holiday dinner because a personality there upsets you, instead, start your own tradition. It can also mean easing into your day utilizing a light box or not checking social media until after 12pm. Engage in activities which warm your soul: reading, mindful eating, traveling, or connecting with a licensed mental health therapist to work through your mental climate."

 

Learn more, PsycYourMind.com

 

TIP #5

“Grieving a loss during the holiday season can be complicated by the expectations that others have of you to be connected, joyous, and ‘ok’. Allowing yourself the space and time to ‘feel’ will make engaging less emotionally taxing. In an effort to fill a void that invariably recurs every year, be intentional about: 1.) Creating new traditions to commemorate your loved one(s); 2.) Connecting with professionals to talk, or close family and friends to share special memories; and 3.) Chronicling your thoughts for reflection each year. Give yourself permission.”

 

Serving Virginia Beach, VA

 

 

***

 

 

If you’re in need, don’t hesitate to reach out!

 

Got a tip to share? Tell us in the comments below.

 

See you next time!

 

We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again: deep conditioning is one of THE most important parts of a healthy hair care routine! No matter the hair type, texture, or concern, this step should remain an uncompromisable staple. Why? Deep conditioning is like therapy to our tresses. The product buildup, manipulation, and friction hair experiences on a daily basis can take effect on the look and overall health over time. Hair needs to regularly be restored with moisture and strength so that it can maintain its health and be ready for styling again.

 

For best results, we recommend applying a quality deep conditioner once a week (definitely no less than twice a month). Cover hair with a plastic cap and sit under a heated dryer for 15-40 minutes for added intensity!

 

Now that you’ve gotten the routine down, the question is, which deep conditioner should you choose for your hair? With a little help from our #EDENCurlfriends, we’re here to share some info to make the decision a little easier.

 

Color-treated or Breakage-prone?

 

JojOba Monoi Deep Conditioner

Improve elasticity and strengthen the hair shaft with this ultra-thick treatment! Formulated to help reduce + prevent breakage, this protein-free blend of JojOba and Monoi Oil restores the health of hair by replenishing it with nutrients. 

Featured #EDENCurlfriend: Khyra Joelle

 

 

Overall Dryness?

 

 

Coconut Shea Hair Masque Treatment

This creamy masque penetrates the hair shaft to transform dry, brittle tresses ​with the help of Coconut Oil, Shea Butter, and a number of other amazing ingredients! Use it to moisturize and deliver overall softer, stronger hair. 

 

 

Split Ends + Difficulty Detangling?

 

Almond Marshmallow Split End Repair Masque

Smooth, repair, and prevent frayed, damaged ends with this hair masque. Sweet Almond Oil and Marshmallow Root provide incredible slip for easy detangling to ensure that no strands get snagged in the process.

 

 Featured #EDENCurlfriend: Kim

 

 

See you next time!

 

 

Whether a veteran or newbie to the natural hair game, we've all got questions about the do's and don'ts of maintaining healthy curls. To provide some professional feedback, we've got a treat for you from a licensed Curl Stylist, ready to share some tips!

  

 

 

My name is Lashawn (ShawnCutMaster). I’m a Curl Stylist from Philadelphia. I’ve been a hairstylist for 19 years. For the last 12 years, I’ve worked exclusively with textured hair after seeing a void of Curl Stylists in my area. There aren’t many salons that focus exclusively on curls and/or how to care for them so along with my business partner, we opened Curls, Kinks and Coils Curl Studio to cater to women with textured hair. Although tight curls are my specialty, I service all textures of curly hair. I have made it my mission as a stylist to make sure my guests receive the best salon experience, superior products, and the most up to date education I can provide for them. I wholeheartedly believe that, “Curly hair is not just a hairstyle but a lifestyle!”

 

 

In my years as a Curl Stylist, the biggest concern from clients seems to be, “How do I get and maintain curl definition,” particularly with tight curlies. The truth is, curl definition starts at the shampoo bowl. Before I ask, “What styling products are you using,” I find out what my guests are cleansing and conditioning with. Often times I find they pre-poo with oil, “detox” with bentonite clay, and/or use harsh sulfate-laced shampoos, just to name a few. Once I get to the styling products, it’s even worse! Truth is, curls need water! They need lots of it, and require it very often in order to stay hydrated - much like our human bodies. Oil and filmy products leave buildup on the hair, causing curls to become dehydrated, dry, and frizzy. When hair is properly hydrated and free of buildup, curls will begin to elongate and naturally clump together. At that point, using water-soluble styling products helps curls to stay defined. ​

 

 

 

I recommend clients refrain from using oil on their hair and scalp (on a regular basis) in order to maintain optimal curl definition at home. I know this is a hard pill to swallow because oiling our hair has been used to combat dryness for generations; however, many misuse it to tackle hair that's actually dehydrated, rather than dry. Oil coats the hair, acting as a barrier that repels water away, which makes it difficult for products to penetrate the hair (ex. like a daily moisturizer). If you're not sure what products work best or when to use oil in your routine, consult a Curl Stylist for guidance.

 

 

Give your look a little versatility this season by experimenting with your hair!

August is nearing its end, which means college students across the country are packing their things and getting set for a brand new semester. It's an exciting time for many, but it can also bring on the anxiety, especially for first-timers!

You’ve finally taken all of your aspirational Instagram style screenshots/saves and shown them to your stylist. Exhaling after she gives you an easy nod of approval, she begins to perform her magic with your box braids.

As you may already know, we recently launched our Papaya Castor Collection, designed to fulfill your hair regimen from scalp to style. Instead of simply sharing the EDEN perspective on these new items, we thought it'd be beneficial to share a review from beauty blogger, Madisen, of NaturallyMadisen.com.