Diary of A Hair Addict

Haute Hair: Kelly Rowland

2012-01-20T19:28:00.000-08:00

I love big hair so it's only natural when I saw a picture of Kelly Rowland's new big curly 'do I would fall head over heels. I have worn similar curl patterns but unfortunatly all the curl patterns I have worn that were close ended up not working out, but now I am motivated to go back to the drawing boards........stay tuned :)

HAPPY NEW YEAR

2012-01-19T20:23:00.000-08:00

We are almost one month down in 2012 and I am so excited what the next 11 months will bring. This year I am looking forward to bringing some new fresh ideas to Hair Addict. I have been playing around with processed textures and hair pieces (as shown in pic) that I know you will love when we finally get it perfect enough to introduce to you. I am also hoping to get back to making more videos and of course updating the blog more often. I hope 2012 has already started off with a bang for you and I hope you will be apart of all the exciting things we are expecting this new year to bring.

Are Weaves the New Relaxer for Naturals?

2011-10-09T23:55:00.000-07:00

I was up late the other night on the computer, clicking from blog to blog, link to link. I somehow ended up on a blog asking the question "Are weaves the new relaxer for naturals?" Now I wish I would have saved the blog link so that I could go back and reference the author's comments but I think the question itself is still rather interesting. What do you think?

Me, personally I think the great thing about being natural is the ability to weave or wig it up and wear your hair straight while allowing yourself that versatility without damaging your natural curl pattern. Myself I am currently wearing HairAddict's Virgin Malaysian hair and I love being able to have straight locks for the next eight weeks but will be just as happy when I take it out and rock my natural curls for however long until I choose another texture to "weave it up". So with that said maybe straight weaves are the new relaxer for naturals without the commitment and with all the versatility we love. Best of both worlds if you ask me!

Goodbye Summer

2011-09-02T01:26:00.000-07:00

This year is blowing by, I can't believe it is almost the end of summer and before you know it we will be through fall and into the holiday season (maybe I'm pushing it) but honestly it seems to be flying by. I haven't updated the blog since the spring which means I never shared with you my summer look and yes that is singular. I am the worst when it comes to my hair, I will rock an install until it is on life support and that is exactly what I did this entire summer. I acted as a test dummy for a hopeful new but familiar curly texture similar to the signature curl (R.I.P) I wore last year. It is so hard to find the perfect tight curl. (I have a feeling the challenge will follow me into the fall). But here it goes......

So what do you think?.....I actually loved the look but the behind the scenes with this hair was a fail. Hopefully I will have good regarding bring back a signature curly texture.

Enjoy the rest of your summer!

Quick Review Follow-up

2011-04-17T18:59:00.000-07:00

Last time I checked in I posted about Shea Moisture products. Its been about two weeks since I started using the products and I am in love with most of the products. I am currently using this on my natural hair, but I think the shampoo should be a staple whether rocking your natural hair or your weave install. The shampoo is moisturizing and does a really good job of cleansing without stripping the hair. I would specifically recommend for curly installs; with moisture being key to getting bouncy curls that "pop".
On the down side f the products, I didn't like the masques, they did nothing for me. I am not sure how well the masques work on your hair extensions, when it calls for deep conditioning. Overall I had a good experience with the products and it helps that I got them at a good deal!

Hello.....SheaMoisture!

2011-03-31T23:24:00.000-07:00

Hey its been awhile but I'm back! Fortunately we have been really busy but unfortunately blogging has fell by the wayside. Anywho I wanted to share a new product I came across and the great deal I found on it at my local Walgreen's. As you all know (if you have read previous entries), under this weave I am a natural girl. Well I am taking a few months to let my hair rest, let my curls pop and my fro...well be a 'fro. With that said, I set out for some products to play with. I came across a product line called Shea Moisture and after much research of reading natural hair/curly hair blogs, watching videos etc, I decided to try it. Well luckily for me the entire line was on sale at Walgreen's buy 1 get 1 Free!
Well....I tried the shampoo tonight and I LOVED it!!! It is sulfate free, and pretty much chemical free. It's gentle and moisturizing. (I think this would be a great product for washing your wavy/curly installs as well).
Along with the shampoo I bought a few other items to try (I couldn't pass a B1G1 deal). I am now under the dryer with the deep conditioning masque and will be trying a twist out with their hair milk and hair smoothie...so I shall report back. Hopefully you get a chance to try it, I think the shampoo will be a staple for my summer wavy/curly installs as well. But hurry, the sale is only until April 2nd.

12 Days of Christmas

2010-12-20T19:41:00.000-08:00

Black Friday

2010-11-24T16:52:00.000-08:00

Product Spotlight: Moroccan Argan Oil

2010-09-08T16:34:00.000-07:00

I often get asked what I use in my hair and/or asked advice on the do's and don'ts of what to use on your hair extensions. My advice is pretty standard no matter the texture, length, curl patterns etc. Generally I advise to stay away from oils, because of their tendency to weigh down the hair. But there are always exceptions to the rules. I was in Sally's one day buying Caruso Steam Rollers (another post for another day) and on the phone simultaneously with my friend, who was so excited about me being in Sally's and about this product she recently purchased that she wanted me to try....Moroccan Argan oil. Well I had recently read really good things about Moroccan oil on a few natural hair blogs and wanted to try it but hadn't ordered it yet, so it wasn't really a hard sell. Anywho I buy the oil, take it home and try it out.....um yeah....IN LOVE. Let me tell you, the oil feels a little thick when you put it in your hands, but when you rub your hands together it's really thins out and feels a little silky. When you put it on your hair, your hair immediately absorbs it. There is no oily residue, no greasy look, no stringy oily mess....good stuff right. Reading the back of the bottle that is exactly what it promises, it creates a natural looking sheen on your hair. Its so light that you can put a little on daily if you so desired. The best thing it is all natural, derived from Mother Nature herself, the oil is from the Argan Tree native to Morocco. The price isn't too bad....right around $10 but you get a good size bottle and a few drops go a long way. It also works really well on skin and has a mild, sweet, nutty smell. And I almost forgot to mention how soft my natural hair and my hair extensions are after using it....Loves it! Try it out let me know what you think.

FIRST FRIDAY GIVE AWAY

2010-08-27T15:16:00.000-07:00

Hey...Long time no type....well I have some exciting news. We are having a give away...its our FIRST and what better day than a FRIDAY and what better place than on FACEBOOK. Do you notice a theme here....well its really simple. All you have to do is is "Like" Hair Addict's page, then "Like" our Facebook Friday Status. That is all.

Oh and what is the prize? A $50 gift voucher to use on your next purchase!
Winners will be announced the following Friday and will be selected by a random number generator.

We're on YouTube

2010-08-24T20:37:00.000-07:00

I posted these videos a few weeks ago but wanted to post them here....enjoy and leave comments!

Don't Blink: 24...48...72 Hour Sale

2010-07-30T23:31:00.000-07:00

We are having a sale and this is how it works...........
For the next 24 hours you can get Free Shipping and 10% off 14-16 inch Virgin Curly and $5 off 14-16 Deep Kinky Curly

On August 1st, only the Virgin Curly and the Deep Curly will be on sale but no free shipping......

On August 2nd, the Virgin Curly goes away and the Deep curly will be on sale....Got it! Good!

We're on YouTube

2010-07-30T16:26:00.000-07:00

Color me Beautiful!

2010-07-24T14:59:00.000-07:00

I posted a few months ago about getting a closure and color...well I never installed a closure but I did take the plunge into a little color. I wanted to go as light as I could without changing my base color and without looking like a skunk with dark hair and blond highlights. So I went to visit my stylist and she hooked me up with a fabulous new install of Virgin Indian Rem Kinky Deep Curly It took me a day or so to really feel it, but now I think I am in love.

What's funny is, I had a similar color yearsssss ago but this time I like it a lot more, the highlights are thinner and aren't as orange as my previous highlights. Anywho while I was getting my hair highlighted I was all up in the products she was using so I could dish to those home hair scientists that may want to try to highlight their own hair. NOTE: Try at your OWN RISK!!!....I am not a stylist and do not advise you to do so but hey if you are a do-it-yourself type of girl.....here is what I spied.

My stylist used ION Color Brilliance powder lightener and ION Sensitive Scalp 20 volume developer which you can get at Sally's Beauty Supply. I don't know the ratio but she pretty much mixed it in the bowl, applied to sections of hair with a color brush, foiled and sat me under the dryer for a few minutes. AGAIN...NOTE...these are not exact directions so you may need to investigate a little further before trying at home.

But here are the final results.

Specs: HairAddictOnline.com 14-16 inch and 18-20 inch Virgin Indian Remy Kinky Deep Curly (flat ironed and curled) , layered

***Note: The Virgin Indian Remy Kinky Deep Curly is replacing the old Virgin Indian Deep Curly (post to come)

Did you get the Memo?

2010-07-19T08:04:00.001-07:00

Transitioning with Weave

2010-07-18T19:34:00.000-07:00

I decided a few years ago to transition my hair from relax to natural. I started by stretching my relaxers and then finally decided to stop relaxing altogether. However I never had the desire to do a big chop and/or rock a mini afro, and while that is a beautiful option for many it was never the option I wanted to take for myself. When I started wearing a weave back to back for a year, my hair really started to grow and get thicker and through using weaves as a style to protect my natural hair it has really thrived. My next install is schedule for next week and I will finally trim off the last bit (less than a half of inch) of relaxed tips. My hair is thicker, fuller and healthier than it was when I was relaxing and before I started wearing weaves. Here are some tips to growing your hair and or transitioning to natural hair using a weave.

1) Keep a healthy scalp - regular washing
2) Keep your natural hair moisturized under your weave
3) Give your hair a break in between installs, at least a week or so
4) Keep trimming back relaxed ends
5) Choose styles that will minimize heat on your leave out or use closure or full weaves to transition
6) Make sure you stylist does not braid your hair too tight and be careful of the tension on your natural hair

7) HAVE FUN, try different styles, curl and wave patterns!

Me and my BFF in all our natural glory!

Blame it on the Alcohol......

2010-07-15T07:12:00.000-07:00

It is amazing to me how so many products on the market claim to miracle....wonder working hair transforming products but when you peel the layers, well actually dissect the ingredients of the product, you will often find that they are damaging your hair. The biggest misconception is that only cheap products have these tress devastating ingredients and that is simply not true.

I have received emails from customers asking for recommendations for products or stating that they have used XYZ (higher end) product and their curls seem to be dry. When asking them about the ingredients, or when I look up the products and its ingredients...its generally the same culprit.....ALCOHOL.

This group includes Lauryl alcohol, Cetyl alcohol, Myristyl alcohol, Stearyl alcohol, Cetearyl alcohol and Behenyl alcohol.

Alcohol in different forms are used in a number of hair products, but in certain forms the ingredient can be extremely drying, stripping it of moisture and because of this, alcohol can lessen the lifespan of your hair extensions; leaving them dull and lifeless.

To keep it simple, here are some tips on what to avoid when shopping for your curl popping products:

When shopping for mousse and gels and curl enhancing products, try to stay away from products that contain these certain types of alcohol: ethanol, SD alcohol, SD alcohol 40, Alcohol denat, Propanol, Propyl alcohol and Isopropyl alcohol.

So now that you know you can no longer blame it on the alcohol.

Hair Addict Quick Fix: The Leak

2010-06-23T17:06:00.000-07:00

There is this joke with my friend that I overuse the word love, but I seriously for the most part since starting Hair Addict I have loved almost every install I have had. I admit there was a little reservation when I first installed the Signature Texture curly but after I learned how to tame it, it was all love. Well my newest style is no exception.....I am in love, not puppy love but in Color Purple "me and you will never part" love.

Surprisingly it has less to do with the hair texture or the style but with the functionality of it. It is the perfect marriage of having a full install but having 100% accessibility to my scalp. Now I don't want to give away too much information because I want you to wait until I do a little more testing, a little more research and well....until the release. But here are the pictures of me and my new: Quick Fix: My "less than 1 minute and 8 second install."

The texture is Malaysian Remy Relaxed Bodywave....the length was looooong.....it hit at my lower back which ended up being too long for me...so what did I do?

After about a month at the longer length I cut it. I am in Texas and the heat has been blazing, we are talking about 100 degrees plus every day and with this hair, I felt like I was adding an extra 10 degrees, so I asked my stylist to take off a few inches and well....she went Edward Scissor hands on me and took off more than I wanted but fortunately I fell in love with the cut.

As much as I am in love with it I am going to take it "off" and try another texture "on" and will be reporting real soon with more details!

Final review: Tancho Stick

2010-06-11T21:21:00.000-07:00

I did a post on the Tancho stick a loooong time ago, back in November (this review is so overdue). Anywho I finally got some in my hand thanks to my friend who ordered an extra stick for little ole me:). I have been using it for about a month now and I have to say I am a little undecided how I feel about it. So I am going to give you the pros and cons and you can decide if you want to try it.

Pros:
- I like the fact that the product is not greasy and does a good job of laying down my edges when edges are straight.
- I like the packaging because I rub the stick directly on my edges so its really easy and non-messy.
- It also lasts all day, after the hair has been brushed and tied down and
- It isn't hard and the next day so you can add more if needed it without it being flaky or showing buildup.

Cons:

- The SCENT....the lavender scent it really strong. It kind of smells like Blue Magic hair grease in a very overpowering scent kind of way.
- The stick in my opinion does not work on my edges if my edges are not straight first. It does nothing f- or my kinks.
- It can be a little waxy so you have to wash really good to wash it completely out of your hair.

Clarification Please.....

2010-05-18T22:16:00.000-07:00

Yes that is what I was asking when I first learned about clarifying shampoo. Where had I been? All these years of washing my hair, I had never heard of clarifying shampoo. Actually all these years of washing my hair, I still subscribed to the notion that there were two types of products, those for "us" and those for "them" and if it wasn't in "our" section I wasn't using it. Well fast forward to a few years ago, searching the Internet for hair regimens to transition from relaxers, I learned about the importance of using clarifying shampoo to remove buildup from shampoos (how ironic right), conditioners and daily styling products. Imagine having a clean slate; that is what clarifying does for your hair. It allows your hair to be completely clean which in turns allow your conditioners to penetrate the hair shaft better and gives your hair a lightness and softness due to not being weighed down by product build-up. With that being said, the same goes for your hair extensions. Many times, especially when you first receive the hair, the best thing you can do is clarify. This will ensure that the hair is clean of any residue thus giving you a clean slate to work with (it is always recommended you follow up with a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner to restore moisture).
There are many clarifying shampoos on the market but as you know if you keep up with the blog, I am all about brands that are easy on the pocket but are effective......hence....my pick for a clarifying shampoo.

SUAVE DAILY CLARIFYING SHAMPOO - affordable, gentle, and easily accessible. You can find it at your local WalMart or Target.

* I don't recommend you clarify every time you wash your hair extensions, if you decide to do so, be sure to dilute with water to ensure you don't prematurely dry out your hair, and always follow up with a good conditioner.

More Curls for your Cash: Product Spotlight

2010-05-07T23:30:00.000-07:00

There are a million (well maybe not a million) products on the shelves and sometimes it is hard to find that "one" product that will be worth your hard earned dollars. Well I have found one that is. Second to the Dove Intensive Repair, Tresemme Flawless Curls has become one of my favorite conditioners for most of my curly textures. I generally use it to co-wash before I shampoo, and then follow-up after shampoo as a rinsing conditioner. I find that it makes the hair incredibly soft and frizz free; not to mention the fact that the cost is under $6 for 32 oz. of pure curly conditioning goodness. You can't beat it!

Fashion Bomb of The Day

2010-05-06T21:37:00.000-07:00

Guess who was featured as the Fashion Bombshell of the Day? ME!!!!!
I am so excited to be featured on one of my favorite blogs: The Fashion Bomb. I tried to focus on the fashion in my pics but also wanted to show a few different hairstyles. Check me out! (hee-hee)

Fashion Bombshell of the Day : Rachel from Hair Addict Online

SILK CLOSURE CLEARANCE

2010-05-01T08:13:00.000-07:00

http://www.hairaddictonline.com/category_21/CLEARANCE-STASH-.htm

Semi-Anniversary Sale

2010-04-29T22:22:00.000-07:00

http://www.hairaddictonline.com/

Ooh look at those wefts

2010-04-26T17:02:00.000-07:00

You have spoken and we have listened. You love the curls....hate the wefts. So what have we done, we have contracted with a wefter that can give provide us with the best quality weft on the market. Here they go...tell us what you think.

All our virgin Indian curly and deep curly will now have wefts that look like this......beautiful, tight wefts that means little to no shedding for you!

Keep talking, we are listening!

Hair Addict Signature Textures: Signature Curl

2010-04-10T18:00:00.000-07:00

It's here!
http://www.hairaddictonline.com/category_25/Signature-Textures.htm

Hot Hair for Hot Weather: Movie Inspired Edition

2010-04-03T19:25:00.000-07:00

I just got back from seeing Tyler Perry's new movie "Why Did I Get Married Too" and even though I read negative reviews prior to seeing the movie, I wanted to support it, all in all I thought it was pretty decent. The movie was filled with star power but of course I couldn't help but pay attention to the hair. The movie was filmed partially in the Bahamas and the vacation hair was full in effect. In honor of Spring Break, the approach of summer and the hair fabulousness in Why Did I Get Married Too, I wanted to highlight some great summer styles. Styles that are easy breezy and perfect for the beach, pool and all the aqua fabulousness that is synonymous with warm weather and summer sunshine.

Tight Curl:
In the movie Janet rocked a style we have seen on her before, a tight natural looking curl pattern. This is a great style for the summer because its pretty much wash and go, shampoo & condition, comb through a little product, air dry and you are ready to roll.

HairAddict Dupe: Well I can't say we have the exact match but as I watched the movie I was thinking that our signature curl (coming soon...slated for 04/15/10....if all goes well) would give a similar look. Remember here? Here is another pic I think gives a better resemblance to Janet's hair in the movie.

And yet another pic of the same hair.....styled (cushion brush, curls separated for more definition at the tips of the hair).

Virgin Indian curly and Deep Curly
Tasha Smith and Jill Scott both appeared to me to be wearing some type of virgin Indian curly. Again, I am not saying that our Virgin Indian curly will give you the exact look but for a similar look depending on the length you want, the Virgin Indian Curly or Virgin Deep curly (for longer length styles) will give you a Bahamas vacation ready look. Here is a pic I was able to dig up of Tasha Smith's character's vacation hair.

Hair Addict Virgin Curly

Amongst these curly beauties, other textures that are just as fab and fuss free, our Bella Collection Curly or Wavy is absolutely beautiful and versatile for the summer and with an honorable mention Virgin Indian Wavy will have you beach ready. Whatever the texture, one thing is for sure, I am excited about the fabulousness that the warm weather will bring!

The Beauty of Butters

2010-03-31T20:33:00.000-07:00

I have this saying "God has given us everything we need". I think this statement is true when it comes to beauty products as well. About a year, well maybe two years ago I was doing research on how I can decrease the number of chemicals I use on my hair, on my skin etc. Now, while I am not a 100% there I try to at least be aware of what is in the products I use. Anywho while reading the ingredients of one of my favorite conditioners, I came across the ingredient Cupuacu butter, which I had never heard of before. Well I decided to look it up since it was suppsedly the moisturizing property in the conditioner. After a little digging I found it, bought it and now I use it on my hair and my skin along with cocoa butter and shea butter......(you see the theme here....yes...butters). What is special about this butter is that it boosts the natural moisture of your hair and skin. Because this particular butter absorbs and hold the moisture in your hair, you don't have to worry about mid day dry out. It is really good with curly hair, I put it in when my hair is dripping wet and let it air dry. My hair dries soft and shiny. Loves it!

If you have never tried natural butters, you are missing out on a world of natural goodness.

To find out more about natural butters and their benefits, you can check out Garden State Naturals ....there may be other places on the net that sale them but this was the site that I found that had alot information regarding the benefits.

Haircare for the Little Ones too!

2010-03-31T20:09:00.000-07:00

I won't waste anytime mentioning how it's been forever since the last time I blogged. We have been busy busy busy. Anywho, since I have been wearing the Hair Addict's new signature curl (yes it is still installed and still going strong) I have been pressed to find a product that can tame my edges without giving me the "gel(ed) down" look but with enough hold for my resistant kinks. Well while visiting a friend and doing the girly "primp and chat" in her over sized bathroom, I came across a new product (or at least I think it's new). The product is apart of SoftSheen Carson's children line under the Dark & Lovely Brand, called New Beginnings. This particular product is called Edge Tamer. I like the product because it does a great job of laying down my edges without making it hard or overly shiny. The company's website states that the product is formulated improve the fullness of the edges, I haven't notice any additional fullness around my edges, but I also don't use everyday. I read the ingredients for those who are making the effort to be more conscious about what they put in their hair (and I commend you for that), and the number one ingredient is petroleum. So if that is an ingredient you are trying to avoid, this may not be the product for you.

Going through Changes

2010-03-04T16:38:00.001-08:00

Hey Hair Divas,
It's been too long since the last time I have update the blog, terrible...I know.
Over the past couple of weeks, we have been listening intently to your feedback and working to make HairAddictonline.com better. Here are some of the changes we are making.

- Wefts - we have been working since day one to try to make our weft stronger and minimize shedding and it's been a roller coaster, consistency has been key goal with working with our partners. To address this we are working with partners to make sure each weft is double reinforced.

- Bella Brazilan curly - we have heard feedback that the Bella Brazilian curly is not...well as curly as customers expected. We have updated the description of the Bella Brazilian curly and added pictures, so hopefully customers get exactly what you expect. With every purchase we want to meet and exceed your expectations. Here is a picture from my Fotki of the Bella Curly

http://public.fotki.com/hairaddict08/bellabraziliancurly/hairaddictonline.html

-Closures - You have asked and we are working on delivering. We are in the process of having closures made. Availability is slated for the end of March. The first texture available will be Virgin Indian curly.

- New Kinky Indian Texture - You ladies want coarse virgin curly hair...and we have found it. We will be offering two lengths to test the water 16 inch and 18 inch.....expected availablity will be March 21st!

Well ladies, as you see we are busy busy busy, trying to take HairAddictonline.com to the next level and be your first stop for beautiful Virgin & Luxury Hair.

2010-02-18T15:30:00.000-08:00

If you are a true hairologist, I mean read forums, watch YouTube videos and read hair blogs and such, you probably have read and or heard a lot about cowashing, (But just in case you are not I will give you the easy breezy definition.) Cowashing is basically washing your hair with conditioner instead of shampoo. What this does is clean your hair in a more gentle and moisturizing manner. Many shampoos on the market today have harsh sulfates and detergents that can strip your hair, causing it to become dry and brittle over time, and whether you wearing your natural hair or hair extensions, that is not a good thing. So instead of using shampoo on a regular basis, many hair-nistas substitute their shampoo for an inexpensive conditioner such as Suave or VO5. Depending on your hair type, hair style or preferences the number of times you co wash changes. Since I have been wearing my curly install, I have been cowashing every other day or every three days. I rotate the conditioner I use depending on what scent I am in the mood for and whether or not I feel my hair needs clarifying (did you know that VO5 has a clarifying conditioner). Doing this routine and following up with a richer moisturizing conditioner keeps my curls moisturized and my leave out soft.

Right now at CVS, VO5 is on sale for $0.77, yes that is $0.77, so for less than a dollar you can try it out and let me know what you think.

**Don't forget to follow your co-wash with your regular conditioning routine.
*** I would not recommend using a volume conditioner for your hair extensions, you do not want the cuticles to swell.

Here are the two I picked up today. (Well i actually purchased a total of 8 bottles).

Product Spotlight

2010-02-13T20:25:00.000-08:00

It's a little ironic to be writing this post the eve before Valentine's Day, but what better time to proclaim my love. When I say I was ready to give up on this curly hair, dealing with the dryness and puffiness...all too much for me, I was literally over it. But before doing away with a perfectly good 8 oz. of curly hair and a brand new install I decided to give it one last shot, figuring maybe if I can find a product that can tame it, maybe just maybe we can find the right balance between big and tame. Well y'all, through my search on the Internet I kept coming across recommendations for Cantu Shea butter, more or less for twisting natural hair, and braid outs to give it moisture and definition. Well any who, I figured since I needed something to blend my natural hair and something to try to tame the hair, I would try it out. One beauty supply store run and $6.99 later, I found my new love.

To start I washed my hair, sectioned it off, rub a dime size of Cantu on each section, used my paddle brush to comb through, and let it air dry. When I say the results was something serious....LOL. I finally had curls that were not dry looking, had definition and leave-out that blended, talking about one happy hair addict. The hair was not only looking pretty but it stayed soft to the touch and the Cantu was able to soften and smooth my edges without me having to gel them down. I can't say what kind of hair type this would work best for, but do a search and see what you find, you may find you a new love in time for Valentine's.

PSST.....don't forget our LOVE14 sale is officially over tomorrow..... www.hairaddictonline.com

Spring Preview ....Maybe?

2010-02-09T18:31:00.000-08:00

This week starts New York Fashion Week; its the time of year when designers display their preview for the upcoming fashions for the next season. Well I thought it would be fun to do a Hairaddictonline.com preview of sorts. Previewing a texture that may or may not be available come Spring/Summer. I am the test dummy for this texture, and while there is something about it I like, it may be a bit too much hair for me. Let me tell you, this hair is BIG!...LOL
I got it thinned out at the salon, came home and went at it again, and this evening still felt like it was too much and tried my hand at thinning it AGAIN. In my opinion this hair is definitely one bundle hair, 4 oz. maybe 6 oz. if you like it big, but 8 oz.....I feel like I should be on some body's stage performing with 8 oz. of curls on top my head.
I snapped this pic yesterday on my iPhone. I won't bore you with the "please excuse the bad quality pic and no makeup speech" .... here "she" is.

WDYT?
I wore a very similar texture last summer but maybe because the curls were bigger and not so poofy,whatever the case was I really liked it! As my friend would say "that was great hair".
Lawd knows, I am trying my hardest to bring this texture back, it was def one of my favorite, maybe this will serve as a spring preview as well.

Side by side they are very similar, do you think there is big enough of a difference to offer both? Let me know what you think?

To You with Love

2010-02-04T22:40:00.001-08:00

Tis the season of hearts, chocolates, flowers and cupid. Well Hair Addict is celebrating you this Valentine's Day with a Sale!

We are discounting all our 14-16 Inch Bundles across all collections!

http://www.hairaddictonline.com

FEVAH....Giving me Fevah

2010-01-28T16:01:00.000-08:00

I have been very much on the fence about what is next for what is going on up top, yes the top of my head. This would be the second week wearing my natural hair and I love it, but I think I want it shorter...I know yesterday I wanted it longer but TODAY I think I want to go shorter. Now for the record I really only have one week to decide and I am toiling. But let me tell you when I came across this picture of Taraji....I was sold, short hair ....it's gonna be. Her bob is giving me all types of fevah...yes it is HOT! So that solves it, I will be weaving me a bob, short and sassy while keeping my growing locks in tact (no. 1 reason I love wearing a weave). So I will be sure to post pics.

We Introduce you to....

2010-01-27T18:38:00.000-08:00

I am always so excited when I get new hair in, I guess its the hair addict in me. Each bundle has me day dreaming of what I am going to next with my hair. Side Bar: I am currently wearing my natural hair and as much as it has grown and is thicker and healthier, I am already plotting on my next install.

I figure I will give it another week or two and on the next....

Okay...Back to my post: Well new hair always make me excited and this week has been double the pleasure and double the fun. Our Bella collection is back and I couldn't be more excited, it's beautiful y'all (in my California imitating Texas drawl). Now the only thing that can make me more excited than our Bella being back is our new line.....Virgin Malaysian Remy. Now I don't know if you know this but Malaysian hair was my first "premium" sew-in. So here I am full circle, selling my own line of Malaysian luxury hair. Loves it!

Psst......And its on sale starting off at $59 ...and Bella starting off @ $100.00

What is a post without pics?....

Virgin Malaysian

BELLA...ELLA...ELLA...AYE

Hair Addict 4 Haiti

2010-01-21T22:02:00.000-08:00

Beginning January 26, 2010, 10% of all purchases will be donated to Haitian relief efforts. Like many of you Hair Addict is making every effort to do our part to ensure that the Haitian population receives the help they need. Our hope is that every cent that is donated will be used for the immediate needs of the Haitian people. Thank you for your support in this effort.
You can learn more on http://www.hairaddictonline.com/

2 Minute Hair

2010-01-11T17:07:00.000-08:00

If you are like me, I am NOT a morning person, which is one of the reasons I love my 2 minute hair style. When most people get a weave, they always ask me "How do you wrap your hair up at night?" Well too be honest it really depends on where I am going the next day and how I am planning on wearing my hair that day. But more times that not I prepare my hair for bed using my two minute method so when I wake up I only have to spend two minutes on my hair. To do the same thing all you need is few flexirods (I only use two large ones) (pictured below) and a couple of bobby pins (I only use two). The number of both really depends on your desired style. I first part my leaveout or bang in the front and loosely pincurl it laying flat (the tighter you roll it, the tighter your curl will be) one pin curl on each side of my part. This takes care of the entire front of my hair. I then part the back into two section and roll my hair with one flexirod on each side, tie my scarf and I''m done. In the morning, I unroll the flexirods and take out the bobby pins, shake my head up and down to loosen the curls and go. Miraculously it appears like I have a head full of curls and a perfect bang. *Tip: If my curls are too tight, I take a low heat flat iron or curling iron and go over the curl to loosen it up a little bit.

Flexi rods (they come in different colors, I use the purple ones for medium size curls)

Here is a youtube video on flexi rods and pin curling
Flexi Rods (she keeps them in for a few minutes, I sleep in them)

Pincurling

The best thing about both is you are minimizing the amount of heat you put on your hair, and whether you are wearing a weave or your natural hair, the less heat the better.

Beauty is Skin......Deep

2010-01-11T16:33:00.000-08:00

I get so excited when I come across a new product that I have never heard of...now warning this post is not hair related. Well again I found myself on YouTube waching AfricanExport's YouTube channel. In this particular video she was answering questions on her skin care regime and the products she uses (Black soap was amongst her staples). Now don't get me wrong I hav heard of Black Soap and have known many people who have used it on their skin (ironically enough they all had fabulous complexions), but ironically enough I've never tried it because I wasn't sure how my skin would react to it, and I thought it only came in bar soap form. Well AfricanExport mentioned that there is indeed a liquid form that she not only uses on her face, but she uses it on her skin and hair (so I guess this is a hair post). It is all natural and claims to be gentle in cleaning your skin, moisturizing and fading blemishes. WDYT?

FYI....Here is the video...You can skip to 3:45 to hear about the Black Soap.

Dream Curls

2010-01-03T12:59:00.000-08:00

Well first let me say HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! I hope your New Year's was fun and fab.
Well I have been a little M.I.A and since I haven't blogged since Christmas, I hope Santa brought you lots of goodies, love and good time with family and friends.

Now on to the good stuff, I wanted to dish about one of my favorite gifts I received that was high on my Christmas wish list..... a clipless curling iron.
The one I received is under the brand Ginalli Milano but there are a few other brands out there; Le Anglique and Enzo Milano. Well anywho I love it because it's pretty much fool proof and the results are great. It even comes with a heat glove so you don't burn you fingers :)
The best thing is the price, they aren't crazy expensive if you shop around. They have tons on Ebay priced between $35-50. If you try it out, let me know what you think.

Here is the video on YouTube was the inspiration for putting it on my Christmas wish list.

And here is me for my birthday after curling my hair

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!

2009-12-24T17:33:00.000-08:00

Hair Art or Hair Horror

2009-12-22T20:15:00.000-08:00

If you have ever taken the time to browse YouTube you know that you are likely to come across a little bit of everything. I often cruise Youtube watching makeup reviews, tutorials, hair tutorials, etc. Well this past weekend while on YouTube I came across a slew of videos by a hairstylist by the name of Seaborn. Now, I have heard of this stylist before on a hair board but didn't take the time to watch the videos. But on this particular day, I decided to check him out......and WOW!!!!!
Don't get me wrong, I am a "whatever floats your boat" type of girl, but at what point does creativity cross the line of being art to being just down right atrocious. After watching the videos, I will be the first to admin, Mr. Seaborn, is c-r-e-a-t-i-v-e and have skills, but really? However in the same token, it doesn't seem like he is hurting for clients. I have no judgement either way because as the old adage says "Beauty is in the eye of the beholder", but I am asking you...would you behold any of these styles?

Product Spotlight

2009-12-20T10:44:00.000-08:00

It can be so hard to find a really good product at a great price that works on both your hair and your hair extensions. Well not anymore. I picked up some Dove Instense Damage Shampoo and Conditioner after reading about it on hair forums and other beauty blogs I thought for $5....why not. Let me tell you this conditioner works! Not only did it make my hair super soft but my hair extensions were like brand new. On top of all that it smells good too, not overly frangrant but smells fresh and clean. You can pick it up pretty much anywhere, I purchased mine at WalMart. I read that it works for most hair types and probably works really well for hair that has been overly processed, heat damage etc. Try it and let me know what you think.

I'm Closing In.....

2009-12-08T16:57:00.000-08:00

So I am finally taking the plunge and trying a closure. For those who are not familiar with a closure, it is a hairpiece that is sewn where your leave out would normally be, it closes off a full weave so to speak. I have been very hesitant to try one because of the concern that it wouldn't look realistic. Well I decided to take the plunge and just do it, who better to be a tester for my own product than myself....right? Since I have been wearing a straight weave, I have had to flatiron my hair and being that I am going 100% natural through weaving, I don't want my natural curl pattern to be destroyed by the constant heat I am subjecting it to. So stay tuned, I should have a new style, new closure and new look in about a week and half or so. Oh and did I forget to say a new color? Since I don't have to worry about damaging my own hair with hair color (since none will be left out) I am going to try something new. I want to go as light as I can go being a dark skin brown girl without looking C-R-A-Z-Y. What colors do you suggest? Here are a few of my fave brown girls doing color right (IMO).

Curls B Poppin'

2009-12-03T20:25:00.000-08:00

I get alot of questions from customer purchasing curly hair and want suggestions on how to make their curls pop. From being on hair boards and stalking other hair blogs and watching You Tube videos, the sensation known as Plopping and or Plunking has come up as the solution to your curly hair woes. Curlies of all different textures and ethnicities seemed to have had success using this method. So it must be good right? Well....I tried it when I had my virgin curls and when done right, it had my curls poppin'! It gives the curls definition because it elimates...well drastically decrease the level of friziness. SO it is safe to say I am a believer!

The general idea is that after washing and conditioning your hair, you wrap your hair in a specific way and allow the curls to form until it is semi-dry . No touching, no manipulation. I don't really understand the magic of what is going on in that shirt, but I will say it worked for me and worked for the customers I have suggested it to. Here is a video from You Tube.

Terrible Terrible Terrible

2009-12-03T20:17:00.000-08:00

I was planning on doing a write up about hair testing but now the slots are filled and I don't have anything to write about...I am terrible..LOL
But the good news is.....we will have other opportunities in the future so no worries.

To ensure you are well prepared for the next opportunity here is the deal on being a hair tester.

Hair Tester - a participant who is willing to install hair that has not yet been tested for quality and durability.The hair must be installed and worn in the time frame outlined by Hair Addict. The participant as apart of the agreement must provide feedback to Hair Addict that will be used to make decisions on the future of that product or product line. In exchange for the participation, the customer is being offered the product at a discount up to 50%. So it is a win-win for everyone!

The best way to find out about new opportunities is to join our mailing list. We send out an email blast when we are looking for hair testers, running a sale or anything we think you must know.

You can join the mailing list by going to www.hairaddictonline.com and putting in your email address (located on the menu bar on the left).

50% off

2009-12-01T21:07:00.000-08:00

Check it out!
http://bit.ly/HairTester

Full write up coming Mañana!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

2009-11-26T20:14:00.000-08:00

BELLA BLACK FRIDAY SALE

2009-11-25T18:52:00.000-08:00

We are having a Sale!
Hair Addict is joining in on the Black Friday Fun! Starting Midnight EST (November 27) and lasting until 11 p.m. (November 29). Our Bella Collection will be marked 30% off and our Indian Collection will be marked 15% off! Get it while the getting is good.

Check out our first email promotion regarding our sale.
PROMO

Taming those Edges

2009-11-22T00:15:00.000-08:00

I don't care what I do, flat iron, brush, tie down, gel down, pomade or hairspray, my edges never lay down and I mean NEVER. Well what do you know, during my weekly Wendy Williams watching party, she interviewed Tamala Jones (who I love by the way). During the interview, in classic Wendy Williams' fashion she asked about Tamala's hair and Tamala dished the goods; she talked about having a few "pieces" added for fullness and when Wendy asked about her smooth edges she dished about a product call Tancho stick. She said its the age "behind the scenes" and on movie and television sets; used by celebrity stylists. Well before she could finish her sentence I was googling trying to find out more about this product. Wellllll..... surprisingly its very affordable (under $20) and has been touted as a natural product that can tame even the most "unruly" hair. Hmmm...has my edges met it's match? We shall see in 7-10business days. It's available several places on the Internet, Google Tancho Stick
and you should be able to find it.

I Love my Cotton Candy Hair

2009-11-18T07:48:00.000-08:00

I came across a link to this book today while browsing the Internet. Don't the title just make you smile? I have a little niecy poo who has the tightest curliest hair, so pretty and so soft and I think this would be the cutest book for her.
I think one of the biggest misconception about women who wear weaves is that they don’t like their natural hair. Well,underneath all that I got going on top of my head is a my own little cotton candy crown that I love. Well anywho, if you are looking for a gift for your cotton candy angel, you may want to check out this book.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0578029499/ref=cm_cd_asin_lnk

Quick Fix...D.I.Y Clip-Ins

2009-11-17T17:55:00.001-08:00

Clip-ins is the Hair Addict's solution to a quick fix. Sometimes a girl just want to add a little length or maybe a little fullness for that extra "POW YOW". Well weaving it up for one night isn't practical and bonding a piece here and there probably isn't the best solution either.
Well.....what is a girl to do?
Clip It In!, now if you don't know what a clip-in is, let me tell ya. Clip-in is a piece of wefted hair with small hair combs sewn at each end of the weft. All you do is part your hair, pop the comb, slide it in and clip it closed. That's it!
Normally it only takes a few seconds per track and the good thing is you can add as many or as little as you like and at the end of the night, pop them right out.

Below is full instructions on how you can make your own with Hair Addict hair.

What you need
-4 oz. of Hair Addict Hair (we are gonna be honest, any hair should do, but of course you should use ours :))
- small wig/toupee clips (the smaller the better)
- sewing needle or weaving needle and thread

Directions
Thread your needle...set aside
Take your bundle of hair, unravel and measure out the desired width of the track and cut.
Take a wig clip, lay it flat on the weft with the comb part facing out
Take needle and thread and sew clip to weft through small holes on wig clip.
Repeat for other end and or add clip in the middle for additional security (optional)
Repeat per desired number of wefts/tracks.

Easy enough...right

2009-11-15T20:24:00.000-08:00

S.I.B. Hair

2009-11-15T16:50:00.000-08:00

I have been such a bad blogger. Traveling all last week left very little time to blog, but I'm back. So this weekend I was catching up on my DVRed Wendy Williams show episdodes. (Sidenote: It's so funny because I used to not like Wendy Williams but my BFF secretly set the recorder to record her show everyday and now I can't get enough of Auntie Wendy. LOL )
Well anyway, I was catching up and caught the episode with the legendary Diahann Caroll. Ms. Carroll dished with Wendy about her roles and the life of being a diva. I cracked up when Wendy asked her about her hair and Ms. Carroll told Wendy that her hair was S.I.B. hair...."something I bought" hair. Get it Ms. Carroll. I thought to myself, now that is what I am talking about. So next time someone ask you if that is your hair, you can say....yes this is my S.I.B. hair. Here is the clip of Ms. Carroll in her short, sassy, S.I.B 'do.

Holiday Hair

2009-11-07T07:47:00.000-08:00

Good Morning!! I am up bright and early this morning waiting on furniture to be delivered and while I could be using this time to do a myriad of things, I am doing nothing but day dreaming about the holidays. Oh the holidays; the parties, the food, the giving, and most importantly holiday hair. The festiveness of the season just make you want to get fabulous and bring it...so what style will you be rocking? Here is just one of my many possibilities.

She Bangs.....I am feeling bangs for the holiday. Something different, I can't remember the last time I had some. I came across a recent photo shoot of Tameka Raymond via http://www.theybf.com/ and I must say I am feeling all types of fever over this simple style.

When it comes to this time of year, the great part about a simple style is you can get away with an over the top party dress.And for my party dress I am feeling sequin. Now, when I was younger I used to detest anything with sequin, but I must say I feel it making a comeback. I am feeling this dress because it has a sexy feel to it with the sheer back and the fitting silhouette has a modern feel to it. You walk in and wow...and you turn around its owwww...LOL..... WDYT?

*Pictures: ASOS, THEYBF.COM

Caring for the Hair Under There

2009-11-06T17:38:00.001-08:00

Many women (and men...no judgement zone here) think that when you get a weave you don't have to worry about your natural hair (meaning hair growing out your scalp). As if wearing a weave is some vacation from the care of your own hair. Well, I am here to say......not so!
Building on my post yesterday (Weave 101), I wanted to discuss the importance of caring for the hair down there, and by down there I mean the hair neatly braided under your tracks.
I know we all pride ourselves on our flawless installs, installs so flat and natural it looks like its growing out of our scalps. But the truth of the matter is, it isn't. Weave is designed to be temporary and at some point we have to take it out. And when you take it out, your goal should be having the hair that really is growing out your scalp as healthy if not healthier and stronger than when you put your weave. Which is the reason you have to be sure to take care of the hair under there. Here are the basics to maintain healthy hair under your weave or like the title says:

Caring for your hair under there
1) Don't wear out your welcome - Have you ever had a guest come to visit and stay wayyyy to long. Well your hair will feel the same way about your weave. You should not leave a weave installed for more than 2-3 months with out reinstalling. Leaving for longer than recommended can leave your natural hair extremely tangled, matted and knotted up. You can end up with matted patches resembling dread locks. Combing it out will be difficult and will cause unnecessary damage to your hair

2) So Fresh and So Clean ...Clean - A healthy scalp promotes healthy hair. So it goes with out saying that you have to wash your hair often and regular. Shampooing your hair once a week but no less than every other week is highly recommended. You can apply the shampoo under the tracks, in between your braids and use your fingers to massage into your scalp. Don't be scared...you hair will not fall out by you massaging your scalp, get in there and get that scalp clean. After your hair is fresh and clean make sure you follow up with a good moisturizing conditioner. Your hair still needs moisture to keep from drying out and being brittle under your weave. You want to maintain strong healthy strands under there. ***Make sure your rinse, rinse, rinse to make sure you don't have any buildup. (I'll cover clarifying in a future post)

3) The Jumpoff and After Party - Although this is the last step, its actually the first step and the last step all rolled in one. Before installing a weave, you want to make sure your hair is in the best condition possible. A good conditioning treatment is highly recommended. When getting yor install you need to make sure that your stylist don't put too much tension on the hair when braiding which will cause excessive tension on the scalp and potential breakage.
After taking down your weave, you want to take the same steps. Your stylist should be able to advise you on conditioning or additional treatments you may need (i.e. protein, moisturizing etc.)

This is the very basics.....but stay tuned!

Be sure to visit our FAQ's at www.hairaddictonline.com for a few other helpful tips.

How to Care for you Weave 101

2009-11-05T17:36:00.000-08:00

Hey my fellow Hair Addicts or Soon to Be Hair Addicts, I receive a number of questions on how to care for your hair post purchase so I thought I would blog a little bit about it. To all the veterans of this dear ole hair game, feel free to add your tips and additional knowledge in the comments section.
One of the most misconceptions about wearing hair extensions/weave is that it requires no maintenance. While in my opinion hair extensions can be low maintenance it is by no means NO maintenance. This post is meant to give you the basics on how to care for your hair extensions. (By caring for you hair, your hair will last longer which means you will be able to reuse time and time again. That after all is the beauty of purchasing good quality Indian Remy hair).

1,2,3's to Maintaining your Hair

1. Watch what you wash with - It is suggested that you wash your hair at least once a week but what you wash it with is equally if not more important. Using a sulfate-free shampoo is highly recommended. Sulfates are harsh chemicals that overtime strip the hair and can cause it to become dull and lifeless over time.

2. Your next step is your best step - High quality hair extensions require a good moisturizing conditioner. Conditioner will ensure that the hair remains soft and moisturized. Deep conditioning ever so often is recommended

3. Beat the Heat - Make sure when heat styling you always use a heat protecting product prior to heat styling. Another way of beating the heat is allowing your hair to air dry, not only is it best for your hair, it will allow you to be versatile by wearing the hair in its natural texture. You should try not to use high heat everyday, as opposed to curling your hair daily, try rolling, or pin curling your hair at night before going to sleep.

These are just the absolute basics that should get you started to maintaining a healthy stash of hair that you can use time and time again.

Be sure to check our more tips and FAQ's @ www.hairaddictonline.com

IN 1...2....3...Let's GO!

2009-11-02T21:43:00.000-08:00

I am so excited about the launch of HairAddictOnline.com. It has been a long time coming and finally its here. Sharing my love of hair with the world is a dream come true. I can remember when I started my quest for a "celebrity weave". That was the best way I could describe it. Hair that moved with ease, hair that flowed on the red carpet, curls that looked so natural, giving the appearance that it was growing right out the starlet's scalp.
It took many failed trips to the beauty supply store; purchasing yaki this and curly that, only to end up with a matted ball after two weeks in Florida's humidity. Well the search was on... and that search brought me to the holy grail of hair....Virgin Indian Remy! Virgin..What?
Yes!,that was my question among many others. The more questions I had, the more research I did, and the more I learned the more I wanted to know. Through my own quest for the perfect weave, I came across others looking for the same thing. A break from their everyday look, some rest for their own tired locks, and a quality product that didn't alarm a siren to the world...WEAVE, WEAVE, BAD WEAVE. It was from there I started the journey to share what I know, to share what I love. It's with that same heart I want to use this blog to not only keep you updated on what's going on with HairAddictOnline.com or to keep you updated on our products, sales etc. (although I will :) ). I want to use this as a forum to express the Hair Addict behind the brand, the love for hair, people, fashion, the world, the community and all the many facets that make up this Hair Addict. You will learn I am not my hair, but my hair is an extension of who I am. Ever changing!

R. Marie