Category: Fashion

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Listen DON’T Touch My Hair: It Is Not an Object of Wonder

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Why is it that industry is so fascinated with my (brown-skinned person) hair?  Do I come up to you and ask can I touch your hair whenever I want?  No, so please stop asking to touch mine.  There is this current phenomenon going on where people of color are embracing their natural hair texture.  And it’s not saying that relaxed or processed hair is bad.  Well, it sort of, it’s bad for colored-person hair texture.  I mean all those chemicals just damage the hair sometimes to the point of no repair.  Now, I don’t think it’s a bad thing that people want to embrace that beautiful boldness.  In fact, I love it especially when it is styled so forward ethnic.  Yes, I just made that term up.  But really let’s think about the history of why colored people process their hair in the first place.

It all began back in slavery days, yeap I went there, see people of colored didn’t have hair salons and/or days where they could just take off and get their hair done.  Not to mention that there were no combs specifically made for their hair texture.  So what did they do to combat this blatant disrespect of care for hair?  Braids and headdresses/wraps.  That’s right on the one-off day that colored people had they either got their hair braided or they just simply wrapped their hair up during the week.  Then came a period where it was slight-ish relaxed we got our hair straighten.  Okay, I won’t beat around the bush after slavery when people of color were actually freed.  Which in this case Juneteenth, not 4th of July for Independence day, no actual June, 19, 1865.  Juneteenth, also known as Juneteenth Independence Day or Freedom Day, is an American holiday where the announcement of slavery was abolished in the U.S. to those of colored.  Even though the Emancipation Proclamation was issued and signed 2 years prior.

Anyways, during this time people of color had more time on their hands to actually care for their hair which is why Sarah Breedlove also known as Madam C.J. Walker made a fortune on hair products.  Besides it could not have been before that because she wasn’t born until 1867.  Now that the history section is out-of-the-way, we can get back to colored people hair of the 2000s.  Well, kinda, see it is also known that Jim Crow laws and other harsh treatments were presented during this time period and in order for colored people to fit in and be accepted more they had to do something about their hair.  Wearing the natural hair texture was not going to work and be presentable in the workforce.  So, straighten and processed hair came into play.  But now that times have changed drastically and colored people no longer want to wear their hair in such a damaged state anymore.  Companies and businesses are now trying to conform to the new norm because the last thing that a big corporation or even a small one wants is a major lawsuit that says the they are discriminatory towards people of color.  We have already seen it all over the news for some corporations, such as the military that didn’t allow females to wear Afros, braids, dreads, and other ethnic hairstyles.  Or a school that prohibited females to prom for braids because it went against dress code.  Places of business are now starting to conform the way they look at hair and I for one am Loving it.  Though I am not much of a hairstylist and I can do simple maintenance to my hair.

So why is society so bent out of shape of people of colored wearing our natural hair texture.  Even though it is known that people of color built this country on the orders of others.  And though this is not a hate blog about those times.  Why is it so hard to move on from those discriminatory ways?  What harm does it really have to wear natural hair.  It’s not like it’s going to take someone hostage or start talking like a living baby.  If I have to change my hair for a company then there should also be standards for those for majority controlling party.  Such as, disrespect and blatant disregard for a human is not an okay policy and catering to a specific color of race is not humane.  Basically or simply put, treat others of all race and ethnic backgrounds the way you would want to be treated.  So HELL NO you cannot touch my hair, it is not an object of wonder.  It is just simply hair, the same thing that grows on your body.  Besides, I don’t know where your hands have been, if they are cleaned, and most importantly I said no.

 

SimplyBetty101

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Waxing: What You Need to Know About Them- Hard Wax Vs Soft Wax

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For some ladies and gentlemen, waxing can be a wonderful regular maintenance that can keep our bodies looking its best at all times.  For others, the shear mention of waxing makes them cringe.  But if you are wondering how and why people get them you first need to know that there are different forms of waxing.   While there are different styles you may be familiar with such as bikini, Brazilian, and the Au natural.  The wax that is used can be the difference of you want to keep doing this or this is painful and who in the right mind constantly does this.

One way is soft wax, which is the norm that most people see in movies where wax is applied and then immediately removed with either paper or a muslin strip.  This way is often perceived as extremely painful and deters a lot of people.  But there is an alternative, which is hard wax.  In this case hot/warm wax is applied, then allowed to dry and then the removal of hair by pulling the dry wax off.  Now looking at the names one would think that the hard wax is the most painful and soft wax is more appealing.  The name is only in reference to how the wax is used.  Soft wax stays soft and does not get hard, whereas hard wax has to dry or get hard in order to be removed with the hairs attached.

Now I will reason with you, if you are tender person or have a low tolerance of pain than waxing may not be your cup of tea.  If you are a frequent shaver of any place you plan on waxing.  Be aware it will cause some discomfort.  But this is not to deter you just to inform you.  If you are not sure of the pain, just think of it as someone ripping off a band-aid on a hairy part of your body.  Like a band-aid rip the pain is only temporary.  And if you have a professional doing your waxing and they are good they will gauge and coach you on how to handle the process.  Now please do not think that the process is forever because with a good waxer even if you’re getting a Brazilian or the Au natural, the process may only take up to 15 mins.  If its your first time maybe 20 to 30 mins depending how well you’re doing.

Next, if it is your first time getting a wax especially if you usually shave it will hurt more.  This is only because your hair is growing back thicker and more course so to speak.  Rather than the hair being removed from the root and pull out.  When the hair is pulled out from the root the hair will either not grow back or if it does it will grow back softer, which means it won’t be as thick.  This also means less painful.  It is true that if you continue to get waxes on a regular basis then you will get use to the pain.  There are places such European Wax Center, that mostly use their own mix of hard wax for most of their waxes and even sell wax passes.

As for the cost, you can get around that especially if you’re a student.  There are plenty of companies that have discounted prices for students, as well as first time waxers.  You may be able to get a wax 50% off or free depending on the specials.  I would look for coupons and deals on Groupon for places in your area.  Also, some places that are setup near a university can only have low prices based on their location.  If you’re wondering about price depending on the places, waxes can range from $20 to over $100.  The most expensive price I paid was $80 but I did have a $60 gift card.  My next price was $35 for a Groupon coupon and then that set price because I was a student.  I then switch to the company European Wax Center where a Brazilian is only $50 and if you’re a first timer its half off.  So though EWC is located in several states, I recommend that you do your research and find a subtle place and waxer.  This is your private area or body and it is a temple.  Just like you watch what you put in it I suggest to watch you does anything to it.

Now this is not an advertisement to my place which is EWC, I’m not getting paid to suggest them.  I’m just mentioning them because I have and currently using them and I love it.  Within 20 mins of arriving I’m paying and leaving.  So in short if you are just starting out I would suggest to go with a small wax session such as, bikini line, or strip.  You can even try a butt strip just to see how you feel about it or just get another part of body waxed altogether.  And then if it is something that you want to pursue long-term then go for it.  Below is a link of wax types and areas that they pertain to.

https://www.cosmopolitan.com/uk/beauty-hair/g3225/bikini-wax-styles/

Finally, if you did decide to get a waxing, it is of utmost importance to properly take care of skin afterwards.  That means no swimming, no harsh chemicals, and if you waxed your private area please bath in lukewarm water with anti bacterial soap for the next couple of cleanings.  I suggest this to help kill any bacterial and help heal the skin.  No fragrances or fragrance washes as well.  You want to treat this as if you have a new tattoo or if you’re trying to keep a wound from getting infected.  Upon, doing research on your wax therapist, make sure they have a reputation of being clean and you want to make sure you watch them on sanitary.  After you have covered your basis with them now it is your turn to make sure your body can handle it.  After care is just as important as before and during care.  If they sell products, look them up and read reviews.  Ask what’s in the product.  Because the last thing you want is for everything to go well and you use a product that does not react well to your skin.  If you have been using a product that helps with razor bumps and it works, continue using that you do not have to buy their products.  Now I hope this blog helps with any questions or fears you have about waxing and good luck.

Thanks for reading… SimplyBetty101

 

 

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Coloring Hair: Permanent or Semi-Permanent/Rinse Which Method is Better For Your Hair

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People have been dyeing hair since before it was a popular thing to do in today’s society.  There is evidence that natives in other cultures and countries that shows the nature ingredients that are used also plays a part in coloring their hair.  But this blog is not about the history of dyeing hair but differences in ways you can achieve color without damaging your hair.

Coloring your hair can be tricky especially if this is your first. The risks are high but the beautiful outcome is even better. But it has to be done right. Here are some do’s and dont’s of coloring hair. Rather than just jumping in and dying your hair red or blonde or pink or whatever that color is you’re trying to achieve make sure you know all the risk.  After you have made your selection on color, now research on how your going to achieve that color. You have 2 options of coloring, permanent or semi permanent which is a rinse.

Now if you have selected permanent hair dye you have to be careful on the product chemicals and harshness it can cause to your hair.  Permanent hair dye has a lot of chemicals and can cause damage especially on already processed hair.  For instance, if you have relaxed hair or perm you will need to give your hair time to adjust to the chemicals and retain some strength. Waiting more than 6 weeks is the recommended time. But if you have relaxed or permed hair and you still want to dye your hair.  It is recommended that a semi permanent or rinse is used. Since after a couple of weeks or washes the color will fade and come out.  And if your still not sure you can always consult a coloring specialist.  Notice I said coloring specialist, because there is hair stylist that can give your wrong advice or damage your hair even more.  You want to make sure you have someone who not only cares about achieving the color desire but also the health of your hair.  If a coloring specialist advises you not to use permanent hair coloring, listen to them.  If not you can’t blame anyone but yourself if your hair comes out.

Then, if you decide to color your hair on natural hair, you may just come out better than a person with processed hair.  Since your hair is in a natural state and has little to no chemicals your hair strains are way stronger than those who have processed hair.  Therefore, permanent hair color takes better to natural hair in most cases.  There are cases where natural hair strains are just not strong enough to handle the harsh chemicals in coloring products.  Which is why it is also important to test a couple of strains before applying color.  It also may be even more beneficial to consult a natural hair coloring specialist.  If you are unable to find one in your area I suggest doing a ton of research.

Next, you go the safer route which is semi-permanent route or rinse.  Then you my friend are making a great choice.  I prefer rinse just because I like to change my hair color often.  Like a couple of colors per year often and applying a rinse is much easier.  The only danger for applying semi-permanent dye is the possible use of creme developers and bleaching agents.  Now these are chemicals that help either lighten up your natural hair color or help the new coloring bond with your actual hair.  Now these agents are usually used on dark-colored hair.  For instance, say you have black or dark brown hair and you want to go a bright red or pink.  Well just dying your hair that color will only result in a dark version of the color you wanted.  So again be careful with these developers.

Now if you are opposed to taking any advice about hair coloring and the serious effect it can have if not done properly you can always start completely over.  Yes, cutting off all damaged hair and starting completely over.  Rather you have to go bald or rock a cute pixie cut, believe me it is not the end of the world.  Unlike other things that don’t grow back like fingers and eyes.  Your hair will grow back.  It may take some time but it will grow back.  Besides if you are in need of length there is always wigs and weave.  So rather you’re dyeing your hair yourself or getting a professional.  Remember, to ask what chemicals are used, rather your hair can handle the chemicals, and is it worth the hassle?

 

Thanks… SimplyBetty101

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Dear Mr. Forever I Promise 2 You: My Vows

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Today is finally here, after 10 years of ups and downs, war wounds, and the greatest part of my life thus far. I just wanted to say that even though I have expressed and shown you love throughout the years writing this was a bit exciting.

There’s not a day that goes by that I don’t think about you even when we’re together. There’s not a day where I don’t get excited to hear your voice or to look into those dark brown eyes. You have pushed me, supported me, and cared for me at my lowest time. We have lost so much but gained more than we could ever imagine as a unit. Where most people would’ve just given in and wanted us to just move on from each other we stayed because we saw something in each other that no one else could.

Yes I nag and complain a lot but what girl who is spoiled doesn’t? And where would the fun be if I just complied to everything. And we both know that’s not my nature. You are my better half and challenge me to be my best. I love your selflessness and your ability to see the dream with me. On this special day 10 years ago I challenged you to tell me what this was and you answered well I guess we’re a relationsfip and ended the convoy with saying L word. Even then we knew that we loved each other and that this would be forever. As the song says you make me better… I love you…