tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-66199509712112447762024-03-18T02:47:47.688-07:00The Moptop Maven.com | The Premier Source For All Things Creative, Fly & FashionableThe Premier Source For All Things Creatve, Fly & FashionableMop Top Mavenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01015978415066958745noreply@blogger.comBlogger439125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6619950971211244776.post-51615227592191408612011-02-22T16:58:00.000-08:002011-02-22T18:41:08.051-08:00Update<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Hey all! My inbox was flooded today with concerned folks asking if I was ok, if I was coming back, what happened to me etc. Today happens to be one of my better days, and I was urged to post an update while I felt up to it. About a year or so ago I was diagnosed with a hereditary disease called Wilson's disease. Late last year my symptoms flared up pretty bad which caused numerous hospital visits and me pretty much sleeping or in bed all day due to extreme nausea, gastrointestinal issues and fatigue. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">My mom will continue to respond to emails while I recuperate, however I will not be filling any orders until further notice [except replacement items, pieces that needed to be re-sized etc OR unless you have received an email with an expected ship date from my mother]. I do apologize for the inconvenience. Those with pending orders will receive a refund via Paypal. My mom has her hands full taking care of me, my daughter, and her other two children, so if you have yet to receive a refund via Paypal, you can also file a "non-received item" dispute via Paypal which will initiate the refund process. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">I would like to resume posting this week, however until I get on the right dose of meds; I have to take it day by day!! Thank you everyone who sent prayers, offers to help, my way! It is truly appreciated :-)</span></div><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Follow MTM on <b><a href="http://www.twitter.com/themoptopmaven">Twitter</a> </b>| Add MTM on<b> </b><a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/1395882/mop-top-maven"><b>Bloglovin</b>'</a> | <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mop-Top-Maven/388676945486">Like</a> MTM on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mop-Top-Maven/388676945486">Facebook </a></span></div>Mop Top Mavenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01015978415066958745noreply@blogger.com99tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6619950971211244776.post-60496135117576451362011-01-04T14:12:00.000-08:002011-02-22T18:02:12.041-08:00Giveaway #1: Jamila Henna + Indigo<div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirQK8ZNNABsTqwtcUD5u-7MNqGK52wz3nKdPdlMYOSNL8muvewKJClQD3gnqSBe338BdNsd3yJHHTENv6baHSPSSXLQLbtXxWax149j2stdvHoDLhvjKeqK7R49baDmiOrH_AGXgtBV6o/s1600/tumblr_lefrbrHpMh1qeqjcdo1_500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirQK8ZNNABsTqwtcUD5u-7MNqGK52wz3nKdPdlMYOSNL8muvewKJClQD3gnqSBe338BdNsd3yJHHTENv6baHSPSSXLQLbtXxWax149j2stdvHoDLhvjKeqK7R49baDmiOrH_AGXgtBV6o/s1600/tumblr_lefrbrHpMh1qeqjcdo1_500.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"> [<a href="http://www.fuckyeahcurlscurlscurls.tumblr.com/"><span style="font-size: x-small;">source</span></a>] </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">In gearing up for my healthy hair challenge, I decided to order some of my favorite products and I ordered a few extras for those that win this giveaway. I use Henna to strengthen my hair, and I use Indigo to color my hair a dark jet black color. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Jamila Henna is safe to use on relaxed, natural and transitioning hair, as it contains no added chemicals. Indigo is also safe to use on relaxed, natural and transitioning hair, and is purchased from a trusted source [<a href="http://www.hennaforhair.com/">Henna For Hair</a>]. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">To enter:</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Leave a comment with a quick blurb on what issues you have experienced along your hair journey! That's it. Three winners will be selected at random this Friday, and each winner will receive 100grams of Jamila Henna, and 100 grams of Indigo. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="background-color: #93c47d; text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Interested in dying your hair jet black? </span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">You Will Need:</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Henna</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Indigo </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">[I use two boxes of each because I have pretty thick hair and would rather have more than enough product to cover my hair liberally]. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Distilled Water</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>The Process: </b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>You will first need to apply a Henna application. </b><i>The quickest, easiest, and fuss free way to do this would be to just apply water to your henna mixture until it reaches a thick, muddy consistency. </i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">1. Add henna powder to a plastic bowl</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">2. Slowly pour in distilled water while stirring</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">3. Once the mixture has gotten to a thick, muddy, consistency, cover and store in a cool place for about 24 hours. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">4. Apply mixture liberally to your hair, cover and allow to sit for about 2-3 hours. - Do not manipulate your hair too much over this time. Manipulating it can cause a mass of tangles and knots. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">5. After 2-3 hours, rinse with water until you rinsed out most of the Henna. You can then rinse the remainder of the henna out with the aid of conditioner, OR you can immerse your hair in a tub filled with water. Either the above methods are effective in removing the tiny flecks of Henna.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">6. Once you have thoroughly rinsed out the Henna, it's time to mix your Indigo. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">7. In a new clean bowl, add Indigo to your bowl</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">8. Slowly pour in distilled water while stirring</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">9. Once the mixture has gotten to a thick, muddy, consistency; you can apply it to your hair! No need to wait, this stuff releases color immediately. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">10. Apply it the same way you applied the Henna. Make sure you apply this mixture from the roots to the tip for nice, even coverage. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">11. Allow the Indigo to sit for about 1-2 hours for a rich, black tone. For even darker tones [like jet black], leave it on overnight. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">12. </span><span style="font-size: small;">Rinse with water until you rinsed out most of the Indigo. You can then rinse the remainder of the Indigo out with the aid of conditioner, OR you can immerse your hair in a tub filled with water. Either the above methods are effective in removing the tiny flecks of Indigo.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">13. Now it's time to condition your hair. Deep condition [with heat] using your favorite deep conditioner. This restores healthy moisture levels in your strands, making your hair supple, and full of body. </span></div><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Follow MTM on <b><a href="http://www.twitter.com/themoptopmaven">Twitter</a> </b>| Add MTM on<b> </b><a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/1395882/mop-top-maven"><b>Bloglovin</b>'</a> | <b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mop-Top-Maven/388676945486">Like</a></b> MTM on <b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mop-Top-Maven/388676945486">Facebook </a></b></span></div>Mop Top Mavenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01015978415066958745noreply@blogger.com685tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6619950971211244776.post-73353627303036733932011-01-04T13:15:00.000-08:002011-01-04T13:15:25.655-08:00Eat | Drink | Play: Dinner At Philippe Chow<div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEBURALZLV85XTJ1HtNTQ3qncirXzL6uVL1cSpzjGh_LCqW4UIW_VbADsWxuXfzKYTXmR67gHO-h80gtpDPx_R1bh_3_NDw76heTI35qI2TrpcBe1Xbi6C74IsBm7a5dFctZi6w2pyXT0/s1600/DSC_0126.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEBURALZLV85XTJ1HtNTQ3qncirXzL6uVL1cSpzjGh_LCqW4UIW_VbADsWxuXfzKYTXmR67gHO-h80gtpDPx_R1bh_3_NDw76heTI35qI2TrpcBe1Xbi6C74IsBm7a5dFctZi6w2pyXT0/s640/DSC_0126.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">It feels like it's been forever. I've been uber sick as of late which took a toll on my blogging. I took these pics last time I met Lo for dinner, but didn't get a chance to upload them till now. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhunkrhPQ4ledDToyBuaTwCN4kwMZqJuSe3BUvkRQE-5WUdHSug_QVMzPYj8rl-oRaM4hJwspE_3UVyomsNDEB2p2G3B1XwrH0llKVSRR-cfM4Anlv6651G5zJ8xqJ0CJDCUY24uvy35qw/s1600/DSC_0071.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhunkrhPQ4ledDToyBuaTwCN4kwMZqJuSe3BUvkRQE-5WUdHSug_QVMzPYj8rl-oRaM4hJwspE_3UVyomsNDEB2p2G3B1XwrH0llKVSRR-cfM4Anlv6651G5zJ8xqJ0CJDCUY24uvy35qw/s640/DSC_0071.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Lo and I made our way to Philippe Chow for a end of the year recap. We got together to discuss how we felt about this year, and what we can do to make next year even better. We have both pushed each other beyond the limits of what we thought was possible, and as a result we definitely feel we have evolved since our first "grind session" a little over a year ago. This year we're claiming more clarity, freedom, and continued blessings. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkFAy_P9bg8s_vEQNSG-tdrIkFe9UEm0GUsbpl2xySAcEx-a6cZKNX1NyVIjkUcwoOkFRxQ82_Y-hagbZRL8GMtrjUgMfuESFjycGhmsJUj0wubloGgDkC_E5inQVoL7Z8msTMQOxv0Bc/s1600/DSC_0103.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="462" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkFAy_P9bg8s_vEQNSG-tdrIkFe9UEm0GUsbpl2xySAcEx-a6cZKNX1NyVIjkUcwoOkFRxQ82_Y-hagbZRL8GMtrjUgMfuESFjycGhmsJUj0wubloGgDkC_E5inQVoL7Z8msTMQOxv0Bc/s640/DSC_0103.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">I wore some sort of tutu dress with a slouchy, scalloped sequined tank I picked up at Max Azria</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnQNuE1bSGr5NxLR-zK0fUdZPfgBJAeHZv0EeDDMEp6vh_8iMzPonTenmh_SSNILcHlW69vQBCVYAwsi4-1ZN-ffY8mPV8s0huKi1_caFEZS82nQ_hvKmT0-oB5tqhBrP-Qr2W01jeLHQ/s1600/BallerinaGirl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="446" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnQNuE1bSGr5NxLR-zK0fUdZPfgBJAeHZv0EeDDMEp6vh_8iMzPonTenmh_SSNILcHlW69vQBCVYAwsi4-1ZN-ffY8mPV8s0huKi1_caFEZS82nQ_hvKmT0-oB5tqhBrP-Qr2W01jeLHQ/s640/BallerinaGirl.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Forgive the crappy pic quality. We were taking pictures in the ladies room, and the lighting was pretty awful. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggWqFxT_6gBC9LjaSg1wKR0JiKob4jvtHs7rjnnGLF7yhcnvYPNreSOnvVf4xvzQYaAmCo25fr_Yg56TmedDVMZpuRPFK2rg9YTpxLn0qpnCpTC8HqQ3zP8fP5wxjAOU-IebjsfsXhBXg/s1600/Lo+Lo+Laflair.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="446" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggWqFxT_6gBC9LjaSg1wKR0JiKob4jvtHs7rjnnGLF7yhcnvYPNreSOnvVf4xvzQYaAmCo25fr_Yg56TmedDVMZpuRPFK2rg9YTpxLn0qpnCpTC8HqQ3zP8fP5wxjAOU-IebjsfsXhBXg/s640/Lo+Lo+Laflair.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Lo wore an all black number with a belt I hope she gives to me... lol </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifw7PYCl0P22NTE6RhtwgLhWGQ7DGyPMhSdQEStHOlgwku_qgjGkAVCkMOEEOc7n1YqxcriNOO6kYa325C3Hqa6GwbuIh37l-6C7n_c3sWRPNEL0lTNvnN4TFKYyrPNeXdtcvqgS6HECk/s1600/DSC_0134.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="454" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifw7PYCl0P22NTE6RhtwgLhWGQ7DGyPMhSdQEStHOlgwku_qgjGkAVCkMOEEOc7n1YqxcriNOO6kYa325C3Hqa6GwbuIh37l-6C7n_c3sWRPNEL0lTNvnN4TFKYyrPNeXdtcvqgS6HECk/s640/DSC_0134.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPsQ2lR0E5rFQbDKvdzPKC8kI7hY2CfcJ0AJe2EOswWbQH5BYg1OdFLJuh9TIM8-yzSBjV_7E6R6pparw8TX9Jf1lPkkIyHGjfJV6gli6TNC9x2586C61c1YnFnjts4kqVAGwaaWC_4NQ/s1600/DSC_0115.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPsQ2lR0E5rFQbDKvdzPKC8kI7hY2CfcJ0AJe2EOswWbQH5BYg1OdFLJuh9TIM8-yzSBjV_7E6R6pparw8TX9Jf1lPkkIyHGjfJV6gli6TNC9x2586C61c1YnFnjts4kqVAGwaaWC_4NQ/s640/DSC_0115.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">We both had the Beef & Broccoli; the beef in this dish are tender pieces of Fillet Mignon </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYM1xA_pHXAsaLHr6AKuZLLGj8-LOf0S3wnak_iDnj2bumOBtW_yAci7CUMlDgHOy7I54nHo5r8xxgrB_k7cmY-qAxI4yYfXsJW9K1ddDPz4Nc_XfdHhFF88hfSfEZGC203Cs1vZoIp8w/s1600/DSC_0133.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYM1xA_pHXAsaLHr6AKuZLLGj8-LOf0S3wnak_iDnj2bumOBtW_yAci7CUMlDgHOy7I54nHo5r8xxgrB_k7cmY-qAxI4yYfXsJW9K1ddDPz4Nc_XfdHhFF88hfSfEZGC203Cs1vZoIp8w/s640/DSC_0133.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">If you love a good cocktail, you have to try the Philliptini - It's sweet, with a bit of a kick. - I curled my hair in gigantic curls using a 2'' barrel curling iron, then I set them on large rollers for about 20 minutes. This creates bouncy curls with a little bit of volume. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7oH_LfMnzRbN5Wt8O9sCtUduYmLUHLZaOgcByP4QJeXovMV9vnPd30x-ZqXOSTQZm5MFEU125IFym_2o6acHuWsxoEH6HIg-yXf8P_sqeB-Jb8JyYj02B2r7CiMCRCEccJUqSzocKYpI/s1600/DSC_0125.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7oH_LfMnzRbN5Wt8O9sCtUduYmLUHLZaOgcByP4QJeXovMV9vnPd30x-ZqXOSTQZm5MFEU125IFym_2o6acHuWsxoEH6HIg-yXf8P_sqeB-Jb8JyYj02B2r7CiMCRCEccJUqSzocKYpI/s640/DSC_0125.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Lo did a Bantu Knot out for a change of pace from the straight hair. She uses Bantu Knots in lieu of heat in between styling visits! </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">I'm catching up on posts today, so check back for the remainder of the product recommendations + regimen posts, and info re the first giveaway! </span></div><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Follow MTM on <b><a href="http://www.twitter.com/themoptopmaven">Twitter</a> </b>| Add MTM on<b> </b><a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/1395882/mop-top-maven"><b>Bloglovin</b>'</a> | <b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mop-Top-Maven/388676945486">Like</a></b> MTM on <b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mop-Top-Maven/388676945486">Facebook </a></b></span></div>Mop Top Mavenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01015978415066958745noreply@blogger.com71tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6619950971211244776.post-10910849807489497472010-12-29T13:58:00.000-08:002010-12-29T13:58:40.741-08:00Mark Your Calendar!<div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1aU9nHzCSZvvmRJB1NCTWhwbimdbwSuyQJ8kfxsvcoXofdYSwPvMCkJCk2oeB6Ipo9W2q2YAWMgdL7k1HehP6ieV5ryVvgoZZXkMQ7FAe7gIqop5IzBesuWIVJF_xdstKe3awePJbeYA/s1600/newpost.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1aU9nHzCSZvvmRJB1NCTWhwbimdbwSuyQJ8kfxsvcoXofdYSwPvMCkJCk2oeB6Ipo9W2q2YAWMgdL7k1HehP6ieV5ryVvgoZZXkMQ7FAe7gIqop5IzBesuWIVJF_xdstKe3awePJbeYA/s640/newpost.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.fuckyeahcurlscurlscurls.tumblr.com/"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> [source]</span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Good afternoon all! Just wanted to take a brief moment to let everyone know I am still here. Posting will resume this Fri with about 5 posts [the remaining posts for regimens, two giveaways, product reviews, tips etc] to get everyone geared for the challenge starting Jan 1rst. I have to take a couple of days off from blogging as my family and I are working round the clock to get those after Christmas orders filled! Thank goodness for family and 5 hour energy drinks! </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><span style="font-size: small;">Orders placed on the 25th and 26th have already shipped; orders placed on the 27th are scheduled to go out today, and orders placed on the 28th will be shipped on the 30th, orders placed on the 29th will ship the 31rst and so on! </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">I am also emailing those who didn't make their sizing requests in Paypal to ensure the proper fit of all custom made items. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Thank you everyone for the support! Thank you to all who have told your friends about the blog, the haircare challenge, and my line! Newsletters will go out to everyone that subscribed this Sunday! I'm excited for this challenge, and I am glad I have a wonderful, supportive group of people that are willing to participate. </span></div><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Follow MTM on <b><a href="http://www.twitter.com/themoptopmaven">Twitter</a> </b>| Add MTM on<b> </b><a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/1395882/mop-top-maven"><b>Bloglovin</b>'</a> | <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mop-Top-Maven/388676945486">Like</a> MTM on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mop-Top-Maven/388676945486">Facebook </a></span></div>Mop Top Mavenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01015978415066958745noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6619950971211244776.post-72980131874000372242010-12-27T09:30:00.002-08:002010-12-27T09:35:41.846-08:002011 Haircare Challenge: Simple Effective Ayurvedic Elements For Regimen Building<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4WH34NRCw1-SEYe1O0BlN_d8B8gQba2RQnmuQ9tho44NxFr4ReqhElfYaNR5T44gKzYiuBYd9PvAMF-Fbhnz7Vyi4nBk1bQViNVnehtWpuC3pvwqZ4lLwHi-j_0eF6EMdwqVLOqgDZnk/s1600/instantfunk002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4WH34NRCw1-SEYe1O0BlN_d8B8gQba2RQnmuQ9tho44NxFr4ReqhElfYaNR5T44gKzYiuBYd9PvAMF-Fbhnz7Vyi4nBk1bQViNVnehtWpuC3pvwqZ4lLwHi-j_0eF6EMdwqVLOqgDZnk/s640/instantfunk002.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> [<a href="http://www.fuckyeahcurlscurlscurls.tumblr.com/">source</a>]</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><span style="font-size: small;">This post is for those that are interested in going the Ayurvedic route for the 2011 Healthy Hair challenge. - Ayurvedic regimens typically include cleansing the hair with herbal infusions, and conditioning the hair with nourishing oils. The result is hair that is extremely healthy, thick, and full of body. Ayurvedic regimens can be as simple [<i>incorporating a few elements</i>], or as complex [<i>following a strict regimen, cutting out commercial products</i>] as you choose. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">The benefit of adhering to an exclusive Ayurvedic regimen is that you will be using products free of silicones, preservatives, synthetic ingredients and harsh sulfates. I can honestly say that my hair thrived under these conditions. The drawback to practicing an exclusive Ayurvedic regimen is the amount of time it takes to prepare treatments. However, you can also decide to incorporate highly effective elements of Ayurveda into your regimen, such as Henna treatments, Coconut pre-shampoo conditioning treatments, and herbal pre-shampoo conditioning treatments. These inclusions are extremely beneficial for the promotion of healthy, thick, vibrant hair; yet require less time commitment than an exclusive Ayurvedic regimen. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="background-color: #b6d7a8; text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Want to include simple elements of Ayurveda without committing to an entire Ayurvedic regimen?</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">While there are many ways to use the products mentioned in this post, the following products are Ayurvedic treatments that have been the most effective during my hair journey. These products also include numerous traditional Ayurvedic herbs which is a plus for those that aren't into complex hair regimens which requires the purchase of tons of different ingredients. Get the benefit of Ayurvedic herbs with only a few easy to find products. </span></i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;"> You will need:</span></i></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b style="background-color: #f9cb9c;">Vatika Oil:</b> Vatika Oil is comprised of Coconut Oil and infused with traditional Ayurvedic Herbs [<i>Brahmi, Neem & Amla just to name a few</i>] Coconut Oil strengthens hair at the roots, promotes hair growth, and actually penetrates the shaft to repair areas of the hair damaged from protein loss. - Vatika Oil has been a staple in my home for the past two years! It makes my hair extremely soft, shiny, and manageable. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b style="background-color: #f9cb9c;">Kalpi Tone:</b> Kalpi Tone works to strengthen hair at the root, strengthen the hair shaft, and promote hair growth. Kalpi Tone leaves your hair noticeably stronger, softer, and full of body. Those that wish to keep their regimen simple will also appreciate that this powder includes other herbs beneficial to hair care [<i>like amla, maka, hibiscus, and methi just to name a few</i>]. Kalpi Tone is hands down one of my favorite pre-packaged herbal hair products by Hesh. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b style="background-color: #f9cb9c;">Henna:</b> Think of Henna like a natural protein treatment. Henna works to stop breakage by strengthening the hair shaft. Henna also works to seal and repair the cuticle which makes for more manageable hair, a plus when it comes to detangling. Although Henna is mainly known as a mega strengthener, Henna has conditioning properties as well, which leaves the hair shiny, soft and full of body. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">How to use these products in your regimen: </span></b><br />
<i><span style="font-size: small;">You may notice there are two pre-shampoo conditioning formulas here. You can stick to one, or alternate weekly. </span></i> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><u><b>Vatika Oil/Pre Shampoo Treatment:</b></u> Once weekly [<i>on washday</i>], oil unwashed hair liberally with Coconut Oil and cover hair with a plastic cap for about 45min-1hr. This is known as a pre-shampoo conditioning treatment. Pre-shampooing will help ensure the hair stays moisturized even after shampooing with a product that contains sulfates [<i>which is usually drying to hair</i>]. Another benefit to this quick and easy pre-shampoo treatment is that it also works to strengthen and nourish hair follicles; preventing hair fall and promoting hair growth. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><i>*Coconut Oil tends to solidify in cooler climates; to use just run the bottle under warm water to bring it back to a liquid consistency. </i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>**</b><i>Vatika Oil is safe to use on relaxed and transitioning hair alike.</i><br />
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<b>Lock in the moisture with Vatika Oil:</b> You can use this oil to seal the moisture in after using your favorite moisturizer. A<span style="font-size: small;">dd a dime size amount of oil to your hands, rub hands together to distribute oil, then apply to the entire length of the hair paying special attention to the tips/ends. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><u><b>Kalpi Tone/Herbal Pre Conditioning Treatment:</b></u><b> </b>Once weekly [<i>on washday</i>], add 3-4 tablespoons of the herbal product into a clean container. Add water, 1 tablespoon at a time until the mixture is a thick, muddy consistency. Apply the mixture liberally [<i>as you would a relaxer</i>] to unwashed hair. Cover, and allow to sit for 20-30 minutes. To rinse out, add a few generous size dollops of cheap conditioner [like V05, or Suave] to your hair and work it through in a gentle, massaging motion. Rinse immediately, as the tiny flecks of herbal product should rinse clean with the aid of the conditioner. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>*</b><i>Kalpi Tone is safe to use on relaxed and transitioning hair alike. </i><br />
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<b>Henna Treatment</b><i>: You will need the following:</i><br />
200G Henna [two boxes for thick hair] [100G/one box for shorter length hair]<br />
1/2 cup Hello Hydration Conditioner<br />
1 cup Lustrasilk Mango & Shea Butter Conditioner<br />
1/2 cup of Coconut Oil added to mixture before applying the Henna <br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/MdrlJ3xdv5g&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/MdrlJ3xdv5g&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Check out this video for info on how to mix and apply Henna</i><br />
<div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>I recommend the following brands of Henna:</b> Jamila,<i> </i>Nupur, and Dulhan</span><i><span style="font-size: small;">. If you have relaxed or transitioning hair, <u>please use Body Art Quality Henna only </u>[like Jamila]. You can also purchase Henna at your local Indian Grocer, or {<a href="http://www.hennaforhair.com/">here</a>}. </span></i></div></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></b></div><div style="background-color: #b6d7a8; text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Are you interested in an exclusive Ayurvedic hair regimen?</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Check out the following posts which includes recipes for cleansing, conditioning, and moisturizing your hair. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://moptopmaven.blogspot.com/2010/08/regimen-building-go-ayurvedic-part-1.html"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Go Ayurvedic Part 1</span></span></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://moptopmaven.blogspot.com/2010/08/regimen-building-go-ayurvedic-part-2.html"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Go Ayurvedic Part 2</span></span></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="background-color: #b6d7a8; text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Where to find the products mentioned in this post:</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">All products mentioned above can be found in your local Indian market. I recommend going to one of the larger markets for a better variety of products. If you are having trouble finding an Indian grocery store in your area, you can also purchase many of the products mentioned via vendors on Amazon or The Indian Food Store [<a href="http://www.theindianfoodstore.com/hesh-kalpi-tone-naturoriche-powder-100g.html">link</a>]. </span><br />
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</div>Questions are always encouraged! You can leave a comment in the comment area [I will check comments nightly], and also ask questions during the two check-ins I will have monthly. </div><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Follow MTM on <b><a href="http://www.twitter.com/themoptopmaven">Twitter</a> </b>| Add MTM on<b> </b><a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/1395882/mop-top-maven"><b>Bloglovin</b>'</a> | <b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mop-Top-Maven/388676945486">Like</a></b> MTM on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mop-Top-Maven/388676945486">Facebook </a></span></div>Mop Top Mavenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01015978415066958745noreply@blogger.com85tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6619950971211244776.post-23322770024483697462010-12-27T09:30:00.001-08:002010-12-27T12:05:18.773-08:002011 Healthy Hair Care Challenge: Framework For Your Healthy Hair Regimen<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXFvMwbFhc3CsKmO5CjIwKzYKaSFrTEXLGeQQqiZmf2C-he691lLrvMLZZMDbvH-LwSK_FLI3Pj2gW9Jl0BhW1Myn3BMYN-YAC0IZx_k1ThPRyhbxhJGMyG8CWRylarhMOBi-VfRjgKPQ/s1600/29877_039_122_993lo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXFvMwbFhc3CsKmO5CjIwKzYKaSFrTEXLGeQQqiZmf2C-he691lLrvMLZZMDbvH-LwSK_FLI3Pj2gW9Jl0BhW1Myn3BMYN-YAC0IZx_k1ThPRyhbxhJGMyG8CWRylarhMOBi-VfRjgKPQ/s640/29877_039_122_993lo.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> [<a href="http://www.thefashionspot.com/">Source</a>]</span></div><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">To get the best results from this challenge, you have to first devise an effective plan of action. An effective hair regimen will ensure you prevent setbacks, and also see to it that you reach your goals on time. When choosing a regimen, it is best to take into consideration your schedule, and the amount of time you wish to commit on maintaining your hair on a weekly basis. Being honest with yourself about the amount of time you wish to spend on your hair can help prevent burnout, and resentment [<i>trust, I have experienced this many times throughout the past few years</i>]. It doesn't matter if you have a complicated regimen, or one that is very simple. <i>The key to getting the most out of your healthy hair regimen is consistency. </i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">This framework is geared to those who will be wearing their hair in it's natural state in either twist outs, braid outs, or afro's. We will discuss product recommendations, as we move through various regimens this week. For now, I want to get everyone acquainted with the fundamentals of a healthy regimen. These elements should be included in everyone's regimen no matter if you are choosing to go the Ayurvedic, Natural or Traditional route. <i> </i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><u><b><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></b></u></div><div style="text-align: left;"><u><b><span style="font-size: small;">Your regimen should include the following:</span></b></u></div><div style="text-align: left;"><object height="385" width="640"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/qT3lmU5708U?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/qT3lmU5708U?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="640" height="385"></embed></object><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Detangling prior to wetting hair: </b>This is essential in reducing the amount of hair lost, and more importantly increasing the amount of length retained. Detangling prior to wetting the hair is easier on the hair shaft [as hair is in it's most fragile state when wet], which means no more splits, knots and breakage from detangling. Always detangle with a seamless wide-tooth comb. If you're on a budget, you can pick up the Jilbere shower comb which is a favorite of mine. They retail for under $2 at Sally's</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Pre-Shampoo conditioning treatment: </b>Sulfates in shampoos, and synthetic ingredients found in many hair care products can really take a toll on highly textured hair, leaving it brittle, dry, and lifeless. Pre-conditioning involves conditioning the hair prior to shampooing it. What this does is re-hydrate thirsty hair, helping it to retain more moisture after shampooing, and throughout the styling process. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Shampoo hair in sections: </b>It may take an additional 5-10 minutes, but you will definitely appreciate the benefits. Shampooing hair in sections ensures you get your scalp clean, and keeps your hair neat which prevents knots, matting and excessive tangles. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Deep Condition:</b> Deep conditioning the hair weekly prevents breakage from dryness, corrects issues with elasticity, nourishes the hair follicles and promotes hair growth. Keeping highly textured hair moisturized is key for maintaining, thick, healthy hair. - You can choose to deep condition with heat [<i>using one of those inexpensive soft bonnet dryers</i>], or by using your own body heat generated from your scalp [<i>just cover your head with a plastic cap</i>].</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Moisturize your hair: </b>Replenishing moisture levels throughout the week makes for happy, healthy, soft, touchable, manageable hair throughout the entire week. Often, when hair is stiff, brittle, or excessively dry before weeks end, it is due to the lack of moisture. - Keeping hair moisturized also helps prevent breakage from dryness and keeps your strands lubricated which helps keep the tips of your strands from forming knots/tangles. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Seal in the moisture:</b> Beat moisture loss by sealing in the moisture after hydrating your hair. To lock the moisture in your hair, add a dime size amount of oil to your hands, rub hands together to distribute oil, then apply to the entire length of the hair paying special attention to the tips/ends. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Sleep in a stain bonnet or on a satin pillowcase:</b> Cotton is not your friend. In fact cotton can cause split ends, breakage, and chronic dryness. Avoid setbacks by sleeping in a satin bonnet, or on a satin pillowcase. Your hair will thank you!</span><br />
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<div style="background-color: #b6d7a8;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Every month consider the following:</span></b></div><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Scalp Treatments</b>: Scalp treatments are effective in removing bacteria and exfoliating dead skin cells <i>[accumulation of dead skin cells and bacteria can lead to hair loss/thinning]!</i></span></div><div style="background-color: #b6d7a8; text-align: left;"></div><div style="background-color: #b6d7a8; text-align: left;"><u><b><span style="font-size: small;">Every six to eight weeks consider the following:</span></b></u></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Protein Treatments: </b>Protein treatments work to keep your hair healthy and strong by preventing or correcting breakage, filling in gaps along the hair shaft [<i>which helps your hair retain more moisture</i>] and correcting issues with elasticity. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">For those that plan on wearing their hair "out" in it's natural state [<i>like twist outs or braid outs</i>], I recommend shampooing and deep conditioning once weekly. Use this sample regimen as a starting point when making your own:</span></div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b><span style="font-size: small;"><u>Sunday:</u> </span></b><span style="font-size: small;">Detangle hair + Condition hair with a pre-shampoo treatment + Shampoo Hair + Deep Condition + Lightly detangle + Style </span></li>
</ul><b><span style="font-size: small;"></span></b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b><span style="font-size: small;">Monday:</span></b> </li>
</ul><b><span style="font-size: small;"></span></b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b><span style="font-size: small;"><u>Tuesday:</u> </span></b><span style="font-size: small;">Moisturize hair as n</span><span style="font-size: small;">eeded + Seal in the moisture + Re-twist/Re-braid hair as needed</span></li>
</ul><b><span style="font-size: small;"></span></b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b><span style="font-size: small;">Wedensday:</span></b> </li>
</ul><b><span style="font-size: small;"></span></b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b><span style="font-size: small;"><u>Thursday:</u> </span></b><span style="font-size: small;">Moisturize hair as needed + Seal in the moisture + </span><span style="font-size: small;">Re-twist/Re-braid hair as needed</span></li>
</ul><b><span style="font-size: small;"></span></b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Friday</b>:</span> </li>
</ul><span style="font-size: small;"></span><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-size: small;"><b><u>Saturday:</u> </b>Moisturize hair as needed + Seal in the moisture + </span><span style="font-size: small;">Re-twist/Re-braid hair as needed</span></li>
</ul><div style="text-align: left;">The regimen listed is the framework for length retention, thickness, and body. As I discuss various regimens, I will go into depth on scalp treatments, pre shampoo treatments, protein treatments, oils to seal in moisture, etc.<br />
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<b style="background-color: red;">EDIT:</b> Many of you are inquiring about protective styling options/regimens. A sample regimen will be posted this week with product recommendations, styling options, etc. The regimen I posted today is specifically for the people that choose to wear their hair out the duration of the challenge. - Many people ask my thoughts on "protective styling" versus wearing your hair out. I have done both, and from personal experience have retained the same amount of length doing it either way. The key to retaining length for me has been moisturizing, careful detangling, and alleviating stress placed on my follicles. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Questions are always encouraged! You can leave a comment in the comment area [I will check comments nightly], and also ask questions during the two check-ins I will have monthly. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><span style="font-size: small;">Follow MTM on <b><a href="http://www.twitter.com/themoptopmaven">Twitter</a> </b>| Add MTM on<b> </b><a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/1395882/mop-top-maven"><b>Bloglovin</b>'</a> | <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mop-Top-Maven/388676945486">Like</a> MTM on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mop-Top-Maven/388676945486">Facebook </a></span></div>Mop Top Mavenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01015978415066958745noreply@blogger.com48tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6619950971211244776.post-67342249097390176112010-12-27T09:30:00.000-08:002010-12-27T09:32:01.817-08:002011 Healthy Hair Challenge: Today's Schedule<div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIfz0Q2g_VmTBvdADH72IC46C2VkPsC3rhB_di_oisGe_rtQdz4O_4y4tCYAp6Is2dwAt_fHWP17_xi96hI-jgecxG07PC6vcGcsYyJwHI2qfZcB3Dh4Wjr_x6wJRQgZichQ6qFsgpCvo/s1600/7-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIfz0Q2g_VmTBvdADH72IC46C2VkPsC3rhB_di_oisGe_rtQdz4O_4y4tCYAp6Is2dwAt_fHWP17_xi96hI-jgecxG07PC6vcGcsYyJwHI2qfZcB3Dh4Wjr_x6wJRQgZichQ6qFsgpCvo/s640/7-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"> <span style="font-size: x-small;">[<a href="http://www.thefashionspot.com/">source</a>]</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Throughout the week, I will cover information on various regimens [Ayurvedic, Traditional, Natural, DIY], product recommendations, and techniques. In efforts to make it easier for people to effectively navigate and apply the information, I decided to break everything up into chunks. Here's what is covered today: </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Monday:</b> </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b style="background-color: #fff2cc;">Regimen Building:</b> Includes information on what the basic regimen for women/men wearing their <u><b>natural hair in a </b><b>free flowing style</b></u> should consist of [<i>regimens for those that are heat straightened, relaxed or braided/twisted regimens will also follow this week</i>]. This outline will demonstrate the basic regimen without a specific focus on Traditional, Ayurvedic, or Natural. Regardless of the type of products you choose, your regimen should include the basic concepts outlined in the post, as it is geared to maximize length retention, and prevent breakage/split ends/knotting/matting. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>To view the post, click {<a href="http://moptopmaven.blogspot.com/2010/12/2011-healthy-hair-care-challenge.html">here</a>} </b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b style="background-color: #fce5cd;">Regimen Building:</b> This installment will focus on the Ayurvedic methods of caring for your hair. In this post, I talk about simple Ayurvedic methods you can incorporate into your hair care regimen, the benefits, and list detailed product recommendations. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>To view the post, click {<a href="http://moptopmaven.blogspot.com/2010/12/2011-haircare-challenge-simple.html">here</a>}</b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Follow MTM on <b><a href="http://www.twitter.com/themoptopmaven">Twitter</a> </b>| Add MTM on<b> </b><a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/1395882/mop-top-maven"><b>Bloglovin</b>'</a> | <b> <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mop-Top-Maven/388676945486">Like</a></b> MTM on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mop-Top-Maven/388676945486"><b>Facebook </b> </a></span></div>Mop Top Mavenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01015978415066958745noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6619950971211244776.post-62304515878822818782010-12-25T00:07:00.000-08:002010-12-26T12:10:00.336-08:00Frank & Myrrh After Christmas Sale<div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisTSq6uQDQvsaEGhfEK32xZtyQiKXJuMFc7HUfwlscTk51uNGNd-kCvto7nG96C1kbE-5Hj2rTjt1PR6O9TCIJrn5NpK03i3THZ9eah-UAOcFOe4xnd7XrI7Nipq6TXEhNn6IlOHh-8uY/s640/banner+copy.jpg" width="640" /><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">A big thank you to everyone who supports my small movement. It means a great deal to me! To show my appreciation, enjoy 50% off each item from <b>Dec 26-28</b> with the code "<i><b>DAYAFTER</b></i>" entered during checkout on the Frank & Myrrh website! You can visit the shop by clicking {<a href="http://www.frankandmyrrh.com/">here</a>} </span></div><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Follow MTM on <b><a href="http://www.twitter.com/themoptopmaven">Twitter</a> </b>| Add MTM on<b> </b><a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/1395882/mop-top-maven"><b>Bloglovin</b>'</a> | <b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mop-Top-Maven/388676945486">Like</a></b> MTM on <b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mop-Top-Maven/388676945486">Facebook </a></b></span></div>Mop Top Mavenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01015978415066958745noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6619950971211244776.post-39902294459235567992010-12-24T23:07:00.000-08:002010-12-24T23:07:47.294-08:00Product Rave: Free Your Mane Product Line Review<div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLC2JBqaSMKkAURS4sHNCGEssPmvyVUnqk6KF51CE5uWsObik2UOpsDKkOJ0Me1rGL5BuLBVcQT3AZl1cjDapPXR3fTdF4vwdE-3LX2M040Z-diz54EJA6lCtu3iFecyMEkn1xAJu7JOU/s1600/FreeYourMane.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="494" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLC2JBqaSMKkAURS4sHNCGEssPmvyVUnqk6KF51CE5uWsObik2UOpsDKkOJ0Me1rGL5BuLBVcQT3AZl1cjDapPXR3fTdF4vwdE-3LX2M040Z-diz54EJA6lCtu3iFecyMEkn1xAJu7JOU/s640/FreeYourMane.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Many people commented on the sheen of my hair in some of my straight hair pics. I tried to keep silent until I tried these products again on my natural hair [<i>I like to test products several times before writing a review</i>], however I couldn't hold it in. A few weeks ago, I received the entire line of <a href="https://www.freeyourmane.com/"><b>Free Your Mane</b></a> products for review. I tried them on my natural hair, and I used most of the line when I pressed my hair. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8XIYunbK4OfqJLiZyty9KaafTZgKWN0M7CgIPW7Xbq8_VCjK47vxPos-1siwUX5-NmncKutzwrDSTipW7uWNbChNQqMRh7DVoVoJazV3hnDai2eWdSOZqo8vCuY6blJPvkbx-7bQzQWE/s1600/DSC_0067.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="540" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8XIYunbK4OfqJLiZyty9KaafTZgKWN0M7CgIPW7Xbq8_VCjK47vxPos-1siwUX5-NmncKutzwrDSTipW7uWNbChNQqMRh7DVoVoJazV3hnDai2eWdSOZqo8vCuY6blJPvkbx-7bQzQWE/s640/DSC_0067.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">I also received quite a few emails about the texture of my pressed hair. So I wanted to address it in this blog post as it relates to the products I used. My natural hair texture without the addition of serums, butters, moisturizers and styling aids is coarse, kinky/highly textured. <b>The key to "silking out" kinky hair when pressing it is as follows: </b></span></div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span style="font-size: small;">You must get the hair very clean during the shampoo phase. Hair must be free of buildup, and oils before proceeding to the next step. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;">Replenish moisture and elasticity by using a conditioner that hydrates, improves elasticity and promotes shine. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;">Use proper blow drying techniques [an outline of those techniques can be found <a href="http://moptopmaven.blogspot.com/2010/05/6-techniques-for-easy-breezy-blowdrying.html"><b>here</b></a>] </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;">Use a moisturizing product that will protect the hair and help it retain moisture whilst blow drying and pressing/flat ironing. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;">Use proper pressing techniques [an outline of the proper techniques can be found <b><a href="http://moptopmaven.blogspot.com/2010/05/secrets-to-bouncy-swingin-pressed-hair.html">here</a></b>] </span></li>
</ul><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Your hair doesn't already have to have a very silky texture in order for your pressed hair to appear silky. In fact, the more textured the hair, the better. Hair that is very thick, textured/kinky, and dense appears very full, bouncy and silky provided you followed the steps above. </span>- </div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">When looking for products to use for heat straightened styles, look for products that correct elasticity issues, promote shine, and offer intense hydration. Products that correct elasticity will give the hair more body, which yields a fuller, healthier look. Intense hydration is needed to keep the hair from appearing brittle, and products that promote sheen can give the hair a "healthy sheen". </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Here's the review:</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_336498750"><b><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></b></a><u style="background-color: #f9cb9c;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://www.freeyourmane.com/store/product.php?productid=17520&cat=0&page=0&featured=Y">Sulfate Free Shampoo</a> </span></u></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><b><span style="font-size: small;">$15.95 - 10.14 oz </span></b></i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><b><span style="font-size: small;">Product Claims:</span></b></i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Free Your Mane Sulfate Free Shampoo is a luxurious spa treatment for your hair. Super rich lather gently cleanses hair and scalp, while natural oils help rebuild your hair's delicate moisture balance. Free Your Mane Sulfate Free Shampoo extends color life and improves chemical treatment results. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><b><br />
</b></i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><b>My review:</b></i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">I used this shampoo before styling my hair in a natural style, and also before straightening my hair. Each time my hair was extremely soft, shiny, hydrated and manageable. For some reason most Sulfate-Free shampoo's leave my hair feeling very "weird". This Sulfate-Free poo lathered really well [which means only a dime size amount should clean a thick head of hair], and cleansed my hair without leaving it stripped, wiry or dry. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: #b6d7a8;">**Note:</span> </span></b><span style="font-size: small;">Let the water run through your hair, saturating your hair thoroughly. This helps improve the lather of most Sulfate Free shampoos [the sulfates/surfactants are what causes the bubbly lather], and also helps reduce the amount of shampoo needed to get your hair clean. </span><b><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Who would I recommend this product to?</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Transitioners that are looking for a sulfate-free shampoo to help maintain moisture balance, naturals that are looking for more of a natural alternative to shampoo's containing harsh sulfates. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="background-color: #f9cb9c; text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.freeyourmane.com/store/product.php?productid=17514&cat=0&page=0&featured=Y"><u><span style="font-size: small;">Daily Detangling Conditioner: </span></u></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">$15.95 - 10.14oz </span></i></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">Product Claims:</span></i></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Free Your Mane Daily Detangling Conditioner is a breakthrough "must-have" for coarse, thick or unmanageable hair. Finally, here is a conditioner that magically smoothes, and softens frizz and edges, enhances curl definition and brings out maximum shine and vibrancy. Regular use of Free Your Mane Daily Detangling Conditioner actually extends color life and improves chemical treatment results. </span><u><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></u></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><b><u><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></u></b></i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><b>My review: </b></i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">I also used this product before styling my hair in a natural style as a 10 minute leave in conditioning treatment. I didn't use it with heat [<i>because I wanted to test it's moisturizing properties without the addition of heat/steam</i>], and it left my hair manageable, hydrated and shiny. This conditioner makes a great detangling agent, as I could literally glide a comb through my hair without pesky knots, and large tangles. </span><b><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Who would I recommend this product to?</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">If you are looking for a stellar conditioner to hydrate thirsty strands, or a conditioner to aid in detangling your highly textured hair this stuff is absolutely amazing. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><u><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></u></div><div style="background-color: #f9cb9c; text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.freeyourmane.com/store/product.php?productid=17516&cat=0&page=0&featured=Y"><u><span style="font-size: small;">Hydrating Hair Masque:</span></u></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">$19.95 - 8.45 oz </span></i></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">Product Claims: </span></i></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>A miracle in a tube, <span style="color: black;"><strong>Free Your Mane Intensive Hydrating Hair Masque</strong></span> was specially developed to accelerate your hair’s repair & rejuvenation process. This unique high-performance masque miraculously seals damaged ends, eliminates frizz, smoothes edges, seals plaits and works wonders on natural or processed hair. Try it overnight for wrapping/twists, too. Weekly use extends color life and improves chemical treatment results.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span><b><i>My review: </i></b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Probably one of my favorites of the bunch. This stuff is the answer to dry, thirsty hair that lacks elasticity. I used this as a deep conditioning treatment before pressing my hair last week. This repair mask was so good, I sent a few samples to my mom to use on my two sisters. It worked well on their hair as well. This repair mask easily makes the top three conditioners I have tried this year. It left my hair soft as butter, with an incredible amount sheen. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Who would I recommend this product to?</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Anyone that is suffering from chronic dry strands, or those that are looking for an ultra hydrating, luxurious deep<a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_336498762"> conditioning treat. </a></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_336498762"><u><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></u></a></div><div style="background-color: #f9cb9c; text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.freeyourmane.com/store/product.php?productid=17518&cat=0&page=0&featured=Y"><span style="font-size: small;"><span><u>Reviving Spray</u></span></span></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span><b><i>$14.95 - 6.08 oz </i></b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span><b><i>Product Claims: </i></b> </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span>A versatile and weightless refreshment for over-stressed dry hair, <span style="color: black;"><strong>Free Your Mane Reviving Spray</strong> </span>offers your hair a fresh start without starting over. Reactivate your style or curl pattern without risking the frizziness that plain water creates. <strong style="font-weight: normal;">Free Your Mane Reviving Spray</strong> also serves as an excellent base for all other styling products when you are starting with dry hair. Spray on before setting or plaiting hair for enhanced manageability and hold. Regular use actually extends color life and improves chemical treatment results. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><b><span style="font-size: small;"><span>My review: </span></span><span style="font-size: small;"></span></b></i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">I used this as a moisturizing spritz while wearing my hair in it's natural state, and also as a leave-in before pressing my hair. I like that this product is light enough so that it doesn't weigh your hair down; yet hydrating enough to keep my hair moisturized [<i>with a slight hold</i>] during the cold weather we've been having in L.A as of late. - This is also a wonderful leave-in option for those wearing their hair heat straightened, as it keeps your strands lubricated [<i>which helps keep the hair free from knots and tangles</i>] and hydrated whilst blow drying. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Who would I recommend this to?</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"> I would recommend this to anyone looking for a light moisturizer that doubles as an effective leave in. This product doesn't leave your hair crunchy, greasy or hard, and it offers a slight hold [a plus if you're wearing a braid out, or twist out]</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><u><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></u></div><div style="background-color: #f9cb9c; text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.freeyourmane.com/store/product.php?productid=17517&cat=0&page=0&featured=Y"><span style="font-size: small;"><u></u></span></a><span style="font-size: small;"><u><a href="">Free Your Mane Restorative Hair Oil:</a> </u></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><b>$24.95 - 4.1 oz </b></i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><b>Product Claims:</b></i></div><div style="text-align: left;">A natural, ultra-light formula that makes quick work of frizzy or unruly hair this super sized<span style="color: black;"> <strong>Free Your Mane Restorative Hair Oilâ„¢</strong></span> leaves it velvety smooth and lustrous in an instant! It revives, hydrates and detangles while protecting hair from environmental factors, heat damage and over-processing. Regular use extends color life and improves chemical treatment results. Great for extensions too.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><b>My review: </b></i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Because this product claimed to prevent heat damage, I decided to try it in lieu of my normal serum and heat protector. I applied this to wet hair [after spraying with the Reviving Spray] and began to blow dry my hair per my normal routine. After blow drying my entire head, my hair was very silky, smooth and shiny. My ends were smooth which is also a great sign after blow drying coarse hair like mine. After blow drying, I poured a dime-size amount of oil in my hands, and gently ran it through my hair for even more shine. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Who would I recommend this to?</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">I would recommend this to anyone who is looking for a multi-purpose product. You can use this as a serum to promote shine, a heat protectant, and an oil to lock in moisture. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="background-color: #f9cb9c; text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.freeyourmane.com/store/product.php?productid=17519&cat=0&page=0&featured=Y"><u><span style="font-size: small;">Conditioning Pomade:</span></u></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">$15.95 - 4.1 oz </span></i></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><i><span style="font-size: small;">Product Claims: </span></i></b><u><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></u></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">A truly healthy, enriching and effective finish for your hair, <span style="color: #ff5085;"><strong>Free Your Mane Conditioning Pomadeâ„¢</strong></span> is a dramatically different two-in-one styling product. Never greasy, drying or draggy our pomade<span style="background-color: white;"> </span>provides powerful hold for your hair while actually conditioning and polishing the most defiant frizz. Trust it to straighten, smooth and tame as well as to mold, sculpt and define shorter hair and layers. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><strong></strong></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><i><strong></strong></i></b><strong><b><span style="font-weight: normal;"></span></b><b><i><span style="font-weight: normal;"></span></i></b><br />
</strong><u><span style="font-size: small;"></span></u></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><i><strong>My review:</strong></i></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong style="font-weight: normal;">I used this product to lay down my hair line after pressing my hair, and what I loved about it was that it didn't leave my hair stiff and greasy. It was also light enough so that my hairline didn't have that gelled down look. The pomade made my hairline lay down smooth, and it offered shine as well. </strong></span><strong></strong></div><div style="text-align: left;"><strong><br />
</strong><u><span style="font-size: small;"></span></u></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>Who would I recommend this to?</strong></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: small;">I would recommend this to anyone looking for a lightweight pomade that offers hold, sheen, and hydration without the sticky, greasy feel that some pomades leave behind. This product is also a major frizz buster</span></span></strong></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><strong><span style="font-weight: normal;"></span></strong><strong><span style="font-weight: normal;"></span></strong></b><strong style="background-color: #b6d7a8;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><b>My final thoughts</b> <b>on this</b> <b>entire line: </b></span></strong></div><div style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: small;">This is one of the first product lines that I had stellar results with while wearing my hair in it's natural state, and whilst wearing it pressed. I often find that products geared towards natural hair are a little too heavy to use when I want to wear my hair straight. So for those that are looking for one highly effective styling system to transition between natural styles and heat straightened styles; I definitely recommend considering this line. </span></span></strong></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><span style="font-weight: normal;"><b>For those that are on a budget, and can only pick a few products from the line; here are my favorites!</b></span></strong></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><span style="font-weight: normal;">Free Your Mane Hair Masque</span></strong></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><span style="font-weight: normal;">Reviving Spray </span></strong></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Sulfate Free Shampoo </span></span></strong></div><div style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">-----------------</span></span></strong></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span><span style="font-size: x-small;">I did not purchase these products. They were sent to me for review by Free Your Mane courtesy. In order to maintain the integrity of MTM, all samples sent by PR are for <u><i>consideration only</i></u>. This allows me to share with you products that work well for me and are worth spreading the word about. If you would like to read my entire policy regarding product reviews, please read the Editorial Policy by clicking {<a href="http://moptopmaven.blogspot.com/p/editorial-policy.html">here</a>}. </span><b><br />
</b></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span></span></span></div><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Follow MTM on <b><a href="http://www.twitter.com/themoptopmaven">Twitter</a> </b>| Add MTM on<b> </b><a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/1395882/mop-top-maven"><b>Bloglovin</b>'</a> | <b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mop-Top-Maven/388676945486">Like</a></b> MTM on <b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mop-Top-Maven/388676945486">Facebook </a></b></span></div>Mop Top Mavenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01015978415066958745noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6619950971211244776.post-82461269000315453042010-12-23T13:47:00.000-08:002010-12-23T14:43:47.772-08:00Healthy Hair In 2011 Challenge! Session #1 Who's In?<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcqTanQwfLGfBzGiBfmyr4M7joLJkkD6qJzj4MqjOd-uYU5nyvVKsEIrLwscXLRIFNC6KOY4IV-MfZNN40CSW_otMyihHMO2ZnWAx7Vwd1QyrTIBcQYL5Qz4xYaFo0cGAU_reN0ZfIf3w/s1600/hairposts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcqTanQwfLGfBzGiBfmyr4M7joLJkkD6qJzj4MqjOd-uYU5nyvVKsEIrLwscXLRIFNC6KOY4IV-MfZNN40CSW_otMyihHMO2ZnWAx7Vwd1QyrTIBcQYL5Qz4xYaFo0cGAU_reN0ZfIf3w/s640/hairposts.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> [<a href="http://www.fuckyeahcurlscurlscurls.tumblr.com/">source</a>]</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><span style="font-size: small;">Whether your goal is "bra strap" length hair, or growing out your TWA, join me for the healthy hair in 2011 challenge! No matter the state of your hair, you can turn it around by practicing healthy hair care techniques and keeping an air tight regimen [which sounds harder than it actually is]. Healthy hair isn't limited to just wearing your hair in a natural state. You can have healthy heat straightened hair and healthy relaxed as well. The key is to do everything in moderation. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">In order to get the best results, it's best to start your personal hair care challenge with a trim. If your ends are in good condition you can skip this step. Trimming your hair is essential to retaining length. <b>Here's why;</b> ends that are split will eventually break off, and you will gradually lose length this way. Couple healthy ends and care when handling your hair and you will be able to retain that 1/2 inch of growth monthly. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">There are many ways you can care for your hair during this challenge. You can go with a traditional regimen using some of your favorite products, you can opt for all natural products, and you can even take the Ayurvedic route. No matter which regimen you choose, the things you must remember are:</span><br />
<ul><li><b><span style="font-size: small;">Proper Detangling Techniques</span></b></li>
<li><b><span style="font-size: small;">Keep the stress low on the hair follicles </span></b><i><span style="font-size: small;">[avoid tight buns, pony's and tight braids]:</span></i></li>
<li><b><span style="font-size: small;">Keep your hair moisturized </span></b></li>
<li><b><span style="font-size: small;">Lay off the excessive heat: </span></b><span style="font-size: small;">Excessive heat breaks down the Keratin bonds in your hair which could cause breakage and overly porous hair [overly porous hair does not retain moisture well] </span><b><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></b></li>
<li><b><span style="font-size: small;">Monitor temperatures if you use heat: </span></b><span style="font-size: small;">Always make sure you are using the appropriate heat setting for your hair type. </span></li>
<li><b><span style="font-size: small;"> Go easy on the products that contain alcohol [</span></b><span style="font-size: small;"><i>gels, setting lotions, hair spray</i></span><b><span style="font-size: small;">]: </span></b><span style="font-size: small;">These products can dry out your hair leaving it brittle, the ends split, and your strands lacking moisture. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Keep your hair protected at night:</b> Sleep with the use of a satin bonnet, or on a satin pillowcase, not only will this help protect your strands from breakage, but it will also help stretch the life of your hair style. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Deep conditioning regularly:</b> Hair that is highly textured needs regular conditioning intervals to help replenish lost moisture and nutrients to keep it healthy and promote hair growth. </span></li>
</ul><span style="font-size: small;">Keeping these basic principles in mind will foster healthy hair and also keep you motivated as you start to see the health of your hair improve and also start to notice growth. <b>Some essential tools you need on your journey are: </b></span></div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><b><span style="font-size: small;">Wide tooth comb: </span></b><span style="font-size: small;">For detangling</span><b><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></b></li>
<li><b><span style="font-size: small;">Soft/hard bonnet dryer: </span></b><span style="font-size: small;">For deep conditioning </span><b><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></b></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Conditioner</b></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Ouchless rubberbands</b></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Moisturizing Shampoo</b></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Clarifying/Chelating Shampoo</b></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Natural Oil: </b>For sealing moisture in your hair, I recommend Grapeseed, Jojoba or Coconut. <b><br />
</b></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Styling aid: </b>For doing styles like twist outs or braid outs. You can use hair butters like Bee Mine Bee Hold Curly Butter, or puddings like Miss Jessie's </span></li>
</ul><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span><span style="font-size: small;"><b>How the challenge works:</b> The first session of this challenge will last for six months. Every month I will hold <u><b>two</b></u> virtual check-ins where I create a post geared towards answering questions, concerns, and talking about products. One check in will be via LiveStream, so that I can answer your questions real time, and the other check in will be via blog post for those that are unable to log on to get their questions answered. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">--- </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">The goal is to create a community that encourages women to start taking better care of their hair, and get questions answered about products, setbacks, general self esteem issues, and regimens so that they feel good about themselves and their journey. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">---<br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">The healthy hair care challenge is open to anyone who wants to ring in the New Year with a healthier approach to hair care. It doesn't matter if you are relaxed, natural, transitioning, or heat straightened. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">--- </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">To participate in the challenge, please list your starting length and your goal length [in the comment section]. Please also list the type of regimen your going to follow. Choose from <b><i>Traditional</i></b> [using regular products/methods], <i><b>Natural</b></i> [consisting mostly of DIY and natural products] or <b><i>Ayurvedic </i></b>[consisting mostly of Ayurvedic Herbs/Oils]. Starting Monday, December 27th, I will list product recommendations and sample regimens for each category. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">---<br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">To kick it off, my starting length is mid back length, my goal is waist-length, and I will maintain a regimen that is a combination of traditional, natural, and Ayurvedic! </span><br />
---<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">The challenge will start Jan 1rst, and will run for six months! If you're looking to turn your hair around and you don't know where to start, or you're lost in your hair journey, or simply want a little motivation, let's go! </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">--<br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: small;"></span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: small;"></span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: small;"></span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">If you would like to be notified of the check-in dates ahead of time, and receive a newsletter [one newsletter will go out once monthly and will cover a range of topics from protective styling options, to product recommendations, DIY hair care recipes etc]<b>, please send an email with "Subscribe" in the subject line to: mtmhealthyhairchallenge@gmail.com </b></span><b><span style="font-size: small;"></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></b></div><span style="font-size: small;">Follow MTM on <b><a href="http://www.twitter.com/themoptopmaven">Twitter</a> </b>| Add MTM on<b> </b><a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/1395882/mop-top-maven"><b>Bloglovin</b>'</a> | <b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mop-Top-Maven/388676945486">Like</a></b> MTM on <b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mop-Top-Maven/388676945486">Facebook </a></b></span></div>Mop Top Mavenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01015978415066958745noreply@blogger.com655tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6619950971211244776.post-62617642430138930672010-12-22T15:24:00.000-08:002010-12-22T15:24:36.286-08:00In The Kitchen: Minestrone Soup w/Black Eyed Peas & Kidney Beans<div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivkEOL_FO3OBjGXAi1uMTFIQelTcRjsHOjpxmOq0cWQRdvzG68nPCavgawRVzwGCkGyGJCjVfft5KTkHYZng_Cjxm-Adl7F429uhQQXJhUn6IefmtcfDsrdRxlOp-SbTlGIYANebI3Atc/s1600/finalpic.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivkEOL_FO3OBjGXAi1uMTFIQelTcRjsHOjpxmOq0cWQRdvzG68nPCavgawRVzwGCkGyGJCjVfft5KTkHYZng_Cjxm-Adl7F429uhQQXJhUn6IefmtcfDsrdRxlOp-SbTlGIYANebI3Atc/s640/finalpic.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">I must confess that I forgot to add the Black Eyed Peas to this soup; but it still turned out well nevertheless. I found this delicious recipe in my Food & Wine magazine and I decided to make some to compliment the stormy weather. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipuO2UvKn5lYa33PqBevi9q9-2goK5kFnLIvAwnbP07OHCZzNhDgz1TMcntfzrniMXsj22EwN0EE2IF5xYZ9TtmpQG1Ztw7RhAsgWcqIrGfW5G4NCTmLT9Sa9YUmr8qesCSYdiCc6uLUc/s1600/mine01.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipuO2UvKn5lYa33PqBevi9q9-2goK5kFnLIvAwnbP07OHCZzNhDgz1TMcntfzrniMXsj22EwN0EE2IF5xYZ9TtmpQG1Ztw7RhAsgWcqIrGfW5G4NCTmLT9Sa9YUmr8qesCSYdiCc6uLUc/s640/mine01.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">This soup is light, healthy and filling. I love that the majority of the flavoring in this dish comes from fresh herbs! </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCN7_loIjFmeZ1lsYspd1TVUFPIwoEaiXzIvgpyiSf0NduZ8WAerbyJrKY1OnKh0zcF4mj8BqRWr-sT8JNOiiP2_XQMfJDjIvaK_XMoaPmREdUoJH4FDGUDtD04DApT2B9my78jCHJKtg/s1600/mine02.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCN7_loIjFmeZ1lsYspd1TVUFPIwoEaiXzIvgpyiSf0NduZ8WAerbyJrKY1OnKh0zcF4mj8BqRWr-sT8JNOiiP2_XQMfJDjIvaK_XMoaPmREdUoJH4FDGUDtD04DApT2B9my78jCHJKtg/s640/mine02.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">If you like cooking with herbs, try using a freshly prepared bouquet garni in your next dish. Simply bundle your favorite herbs together and secure with kitchen twine. You can stuff them in the cavity of your chicken/hen/turkey, drop them in your favorite soup and even spaghetti sauce. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTZCks01Tq4QsKWK_x6v1U3YjcuszcQPX2_yiTm02M-9lCMCCaGjOPOGH5_kweRpzrtVvzOPeRuFPxHXTdoenY6dYQatjbZZHVwnS_hXcONZ2j8N5Zy_TexZJvSlA87ymgl5fSD2zlCOM/s1600/mine03.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTZCks01Tq4QsKWK_x6v1U3YjcuszcQPX2_yiTm02M-9lCMCCaGjOPOGH5_kweRpzrtVvzOPeRuFPxHXTdoenY6dYQatjbZZHVwnS_hXcONZ2j8N5Zy_TexZJvSlA87ymgl5fSD2zlCOM/s640/mine03.JPG" width="640" /> </a><span style="font-size: small;"></span><span style="font-size: small;">Don't forget to drain and rinse your Kidney beans :-) </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-iKJm59ldG0jOiTa7KlECQr1XGTmkADKFScgouWmQc8PcbLmD8pQFSOn23dBIfxZrva2Mja9i5q70NM1xK25MriwHrw2uIU6S92SB-OtPSfI5lC9GIiqZ3nbJHgVKd5XnKiPZ_AA0jBQ/s1600/mine04.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-iKJm59ldG0jOiTa7KlECQr1XGTmkADKFScgouWmQc8PcbLmD8pQFSOn23dBIfxZrva2Mja9i5q70NM1xK25MriwHrw2uIU6S92SB-OtPSfI5lC9GIiqZ3nbJHgVKd5XnKiPZ_AA0jBQ/s640/mine04.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><span style="font-size: small;">Or to drain your noodles on a napkin...</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXlrJ7IFRtEVNQ5OEolcAbR7lw9OfrwMUkVMCQSix6HLHfYJQTwWcOU5V5ZbaENQAXvCC6m1lZdWivFV-Os3Yc1fqdYZ2Z4rxQ6VSggeg1HZMZ1rmXLOrQCEU7FoX8qziw_KXGNeAt3TE/s1600/mine05.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXlrJ7IFRtEVNQ5OEolcAbR7lw9OfrwMUkVMCQSix6HLHfYJQTwWcOU5V5ZbaENQAXvCC6m1lZdWivFV-Os3Yc1fqdYZ2Z4rxQ6VSggeg1HZMZ1rmXLOrQCEU7FoX8qziw_KXGNeAt3TE/s640/mine05.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><u><b>Minestrone Soup w/Black Eyed Peas & Kidney Beans</b></u> [Adapted <i>from</i> Food & Wine Magazine]</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i>Ingredients: </i></div><div style="text-align: left;">3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil <br />
2 ounces pancetta, finely diced <br />
1 large onion, finely chopped <br />
2 celery ribs, thinly sliced <br />
4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced <br />
1 leek—white and tender green parts thinly sliced, 1 dark top reserved <br />
Salt and freshly ground pepper <br />
1/2 pound Savoy or other green cabbage, coarsely shredded <br />
One 14-ounce can diced tomatoes <br />
1 cup dried black-eyed peas <br />
2 quarts water <br />
3 parsley sprigs <br />
1 bay leaf <br />
3 thyme sprigs <br />
One 15-ounce can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed <br />
2 ounces penne <br />
1/2 cup shredded basil </div><div style="text-align: left;"> 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese </div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><i>Directions:</i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><ol><li> In a pot, heat 2 tablespoons of the oil. Add the pancetta, onion, celery, garlic and sliced leek and season with salt and pepper. Cook over moderate heat, until the vegetables are softened, 10 minutes. Add the cabbage and cook until slightly wilted, 1 minute. Add the tomatoes and cook for about 5 minutes. Add the black-eyed peas and water; bring to a boil. Wrap the parsley, bay leaf and thyme in the reserved leek top and secure with kitchen twine. Add to the pot. </li>
<li> Cover the pot and simmer over low heat until the black-eyed peas are tender, 45 minutes. Discard the herbs. Add the kidney beans and simmer for 10 minutes longer. </li>
<li> Meanwhile, in a pot of boiling salted water, cook the penne until al dente. Drain and cool under running water. Slice the penne crosswise into 1/4-inch rings. </li>
<li> In a nonstick skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the penne in a single layer and cook over moderately high heat, turning once, until golden, 5 minutes. Drain the penne rings on paper towels. </li>
<li> Stir the pasta and basil into the soup. Ladle the soup into bowls, sprinkle each with 1 tablespoon of the cheese and serve.</li>
</ol></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNS7g5rLmScD4ZiarvToKBNaqGvtD8a7H5fS8aEgs857-oQtR-AMdXnCRm6iiUXBS94zPJflfLDNOOpUlIb24CCQjLueE4h3sDSx3P6PGel9WXTzTIfBv7g-PlsgnjlNv9YXefcAGdPR8/s1600/mine07.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="410" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNS7g5rLmScD4ZiarvToKBNaqGvtD8a7H5fS8aEgs857-oQtR-AMdXnCRm6iiUXBS94zPJflfLDNOOpUlIb24CCQjLueE4h3sDSx3P6PGel9WXTzTIfBv7g-PlsgnjlNv9YXefcAGdPR8/s640/mine07.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Follow MTM on <b><a href="http://www.twitter.com/themoptopmaven">Twitter</a> </b>| Add MTM on<b> </b><a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/1395882/mop-top-maven"><b>Bloglovin</b>'</a> | <b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mop-Top-Maven/388676945486">Like</a></b> MTM on <b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mop-Top-Maven/388676945486">Facebook </a></b></span></div>Mop Top Mavenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01015978415066958745noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6619950971211244776.post-75728690938623334612010-12-22T14:04:00.000-08:002010-12-22T15:25:16.411-08:00Fashion & Beauty Ethos: My Side Swept Fishtail Pony<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb5Eh5oGPrDTjmUZwYkEu9qyzljvZ0R1PGR5a4lhFUpn2AWAxmxnq3sv-LLOwca_BFLKC8GHAdCNhwYlla4j_d-i67XIc0EsJugjhrOs347ntdY4FB6JkWkUH4MhUYzVL1yoo-exDP_1A/s1600/fishtail02.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="474" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb5Eh5oGPrDTjmUZwYkEu9qyzljvZ0R1PGR5a4lhFUpn2AWAxmxnq3sv-LLOwca_BFLKC8GHAdCNhwYlla4j_d-i67XIc0EsJugjhrOs347ntdY4FB6JkWkUH4MhUYzVL1yoo-exDP_1A/s640/fishtail02.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><span style="font-size: small;">The rain outside is relentless which means I will have to find other ways of wearing my hair until it lets up. One thing on my to-do list was learning how to do a "fishtail braid", so I logged on Youtube and checked out a few tutorials. It wasn't very difficult at all, after a couple of tries, I had the fishtail braid pictured!</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE2QNTPBGJAbTErY8FlWoLlSsKWPA_6rIiv5zAPrmCWNLzqHlSSCQ1ovCgrDPcVMM-kgcCCKNjHNzU3NI_T2wihACZlGhxZhLVxMExIqYjUwT0ur05VDuEb7ardeJgtPyYMZfwLgZzWHE/s1600/Fishtail03.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE2QNTPBGJAbTErY8FlWoLlSsKWPA_6rIiv5zAPrmCWNLzqHlSSCQ1ovCgrDPcVMM-kgcCCKNjHNzU3NI_T2wihACZlGhxZhLVxMExIqYjUwT0ur05VDuEb7ardeJgtPyYMZfwLgZzWHE/s640/Fishtail03.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: right;"><span style="font-size: small;"> <object height="440" width="640"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/smJvLUl89ko?fs=1&hl=en_US"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/smJvLUl89ko?fs=1&hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="640" height="440"></embed></object> </span></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ7HYQZQnj4LYmn68umzCi_KPsScEu91em9bwtXN09uXG_xioI_AnhTIFL8oAYYvX4nRSIwiciJscy13hJqzItn_LMDW9jAdE1MQ2p8n4u_rz_wX34gHJe-3OHAejFMeBHZ_rWE_Xr0GA/s1600/Fishtail01.jpg.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="460" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ7HYQZQnj4LYmn68umzCi_KPsScEu91em9bwtXN09uXG_xioI_AnhTIFL8oAYYvX4nRSIwiciJscy13hJqzItn_LMDW9jAdE1MQ2p8n4u_rz_wX34gHJe-3OHAejFMeBHZ_rWE_Xr0GA/s640/Fishtail01.jpg.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><span style="font-size: small;">This is a great alternative to rocking regular ponytails, or on those days when you want a chic, effortless look. I love hair styles that are ultra femme without looking like you're trying too hard. If you try this out, leave some hair out around the front for a messier look. The good thing about this style is that it doesn't have to be perfect. - I'm going to experiment with this style using some clip-in extensions. If it works I will have a video tutorial for the chica's with shorter hair that want to wear this look. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwAtbDRlQmAsEgXBFkd-ld0UOQxlOy2YnbAP6raIIi6qmoWgrGoWT8Ys5gjtpcbdO8rSi5wFiLMcg1V9jrFYfki77kq43aoEUNP4ZiDssmkLsyxwdGJMFAUhOZXh834vaSH9Ql3jGpEt8/s1600/fishtail4usethis.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwAtbDRlQmAsEgXBFkd-ld0UOQxlOy2YnbAP6raIIi6qmoWgrGoWT8Ys5gjtpcbdO8rSi5wFiLMcg1V9jrFYfki77kq43aoEUNP4ZiDssmkLsyxwdGJMFAUhOZXh834vaSH9Ql3jGpEt8/s640/fishtail4usethis.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfafzunok73KS8Z_aocu7FsSODl40z5XY_dHa0jpcSkP3LX4gLO9rmBdQdAsLzFEf5tAxI19VzggdKMLC8aEJbO_xX7XS8SG3FeEcrHkdU48WHjwtp4UPm40-Dmz6WSuPZIAQlC1rAYHE/s1600/fishtail04.jpg.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfafzunok73KS8Z_aocu7FsSODl40z5XY_dHa0jpcSkP3LX4gLO9rmBdQdAsLzFEf5tAxI19VzggdKMLC8aEJbO_xX7XS8SG3FeEcrHkdU48WHjwtp4UPm40-Dmz6WSuPZIAQlC1rAYHE/s640/fishtail04.jpg.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfsIpU98qKcr8F7gEM-5iiqZn50myx7T0Dst5Jxpqachm09ZyW4gxrnHgsitmKEvKnMl0wIBPnid_7nilf9uLiC1Wv6ThlODKhPpvyHc15EQWTg169AmPN5FjeggL5fX5vP1XZMizzsZ8/s1600/lastfishtail.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfsIpU98qKcr8F7gEM-5iiqZn50myx7T0Dst5Jxpqachm09ZyW4gxrnHgsitmKEvKnMl0wIBPnid_7nilf9uLiC1Wv6ThlODKhPpvyHc15EQWTg169AmPN5FjeggL5fX5vP1XZMizzsZ8/s640/lastfishtail.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><span style="font-size: small;"> You can also take notes on different ways to wear this look from a few celebs:</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtvmATULNepfWtr0vwK4GOWYxJ95aFi65EwvgYbeVKOJGJ0malNOMfSW3NJOuGZ6VDxUTs5XSQKX-cjOTOFeHDos8jLRNSklQPJfUC5r6IdXGhshPgcz5heX243_bLVzvB_R5nDWCFWI0/s1600/fishtailoption1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtvmATULNepfWtr0vwK4GOWYxJ95aFi65EwvgYbeVKOJGJ0malNOMfSW3NJOuGZ6VDxUTs5XSQKX-cjOTOFeHDos8jLRNSklQPJfUC5r6IdXGhshPgcz5heX243_bLVzvB_R5nDWCFWI0/s640/fishtailoption1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span style="font-size: small;">For those with shorter hair in the front like Rihanna, curl the loose hair with a 1" curling iron for feminine face framing tendrils. - If you have longer hair in the front like Leona, loosely pin pieces back with a bobby pin for a wispy look. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6nboyZUfnahWv7NcNcsRWrqNcJCzph5PXMLx98PwjeprYB78lBH8-wp8UgaqOo9ksXPXq2bgyaPGvaT4yBqLny79766qGSCFcHnPNVxMW9S9_oreYxTim8EcmEIXV02oySxxfmp-YBU4/s1600/option2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="316" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6nboyZUfnahWv7NcNcsRWrqNcJCzph5PXMLx98PwjeprYB78lBH8-wp8UgaqOo9ksXPXq2bgyaPGvaT4yBqLny79766qGSCFcHnPNVxMW9S9_oreYxTim8EcmEIXV02oySxxfmp-YBU4/s640/option2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span style="font-size: small;">Whether you're wearing it messy like Angela, or pinned back and neat like Cassie, it's definitely a refreshing change of pace from regular braids! <br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">{photo source: <a href="http://www.style.com/">style</a>}</span></span></div><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Follow MTM on <b><a href="http://www.twitter.com/themoptopmaven">Twitter</a> </b>| Add MTM on<b> </b><a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/1395882/mop-top-maven"><b>Bloglovin</b>'</a> | <b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mop-Top-Maven/388676945486">Like</a></b> MTM on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mop-Top-Maven/388676945486"><b>Facebook</b> </a></span></div>Mop Top Mavenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01015978415066958745noreply@blogger.com38tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6619950971211244776.post-21917510170149521892010-12-21T11:44:00.000-08:002010-12-21T11:44:30.848-08:00In The Kitchen: Christmas Sugar Cookies<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmETV5oyKig8x3fv_iYA34ELxG2Tsgr7VMPzadxd86JBozKNPf66JkqeMoXezxLH5fq4PWcYNssPWiI3e1GvwgCE81Rc6xsKlNL_G_WHJIhyF3aS3DTJy_tCiDGMxgCm7U5oruiTNofOU/s1600/DSC_0078.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmETV5oyKig8x3fv_iYA34ELxG2Tsgr7VMPzadxd86JBozKNPf66JkqeMoXezxLH5fq4PWcYNssPWiI3e1GvwgCE81Rc6xsKlNL_G_WHJIhyF3aS3DTJy_tCiDGMxgCm7U5oruiTNofOU/s640/DSC_0078.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><span style="font-size: small;">Due to the rain, my internet was down almost <i>all day</i> yesterday. My daughter and I decided to get festive, so we baked and decorated sugar cookies. I am usually not one for sugar cookies but this recipe I found on AllRecipes.com was absolutely delicious. This sugar cookie recipe yields a perfectly crisp, sweet, buttery cookie. What I love most is that the dough isn't finicky; you literally mix a few simple ingredients together, add flour and voila. The perfect sugar cookie. For that reason, it makes the perfect project to do with little ones. Also, if you are looking for a tasty treat to ship to friends & family, or for the potluck at work; these delicious cookies ship and stack well. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgquly7w8y5avJj2PVHqrLOMP183AxQnbCe-SBH5B2wH2Fr65e7slHA9-qloZ6qBdITv0JE5o8HUo3eBooaKZo7RVS433wAuXK-ktIIT2gxhx5gmS3wgTI7eCvX7_2UBUeYD1XrBvPCyN0/s1600/DSC_0094.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgquly7w8y5avJj2PVHqrLOMP183AxQnbCe-SBH5B2wH2Fr65e7slHA9-qloZ6qBdITv0JE5o8HUo3eBooaKZo7RVS433wAuXK-ktIIT2gxhx5gmS3wgTI7eCvX7_2UBUeYD1XrBvPCyN0/s640/DSC_0094.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><span style="font-size: small;">I decided to forgo the traditional Royal Icing recipe and try the "Sugar Cookie Icing" recipe on AllRecipes.Com since I have had so much luck with them lately, and they definitely didn't disappoint. The mixture was a bit stiff initially, so I had to add milk 1/2 a teaspoon at a time until I got the desired consistency. You really want the mixture to resemble a thick toothpaste consistency. - The icing dries fully in about 12-24 hours with a nice glossy finish that resembles cookies purchased from specialty bakeries. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqt34I5ZvJQrMWnl3TIwrAUt7OpiRgCuXKmZKKPAKG5s2gPh0nHnqpoGv8hoKqtLsNleMEExIPRIywucKhRA2CoH9sKPou9GsNixGzrIqlWPVWMBptGMkEk3Yg9VgTw-asGHKgmL5S8j4/s1600/briannascookies.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqt34I5ZvJQrMWnl3TIwrAUt7OpiRgCuXKmZKKPAKG5s2gPh0nHnqpoGv8hoKqtLsNleMEExIPRIywucKhRA2CoH9sKPou9GsNixGzrIqlWPVWMBptGMkEk3Yg9VgTw-asGHKgmL5S8j4/s640/briannascookies.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><u><b><span style="font-size: small;">The Best Rolled Sugar Cookies [</span></b></u><span style="font-size: small;">Adapted from</span><span style="font-size: small;"> <a href="http://allrecipes.com//Recipe/the-best-rolled-sugar-cookies/Detail.aspx">AllRecipes</a></span><u><b><span style="font-size: small;">]</span></b></u></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Ingredients: </span></i><u><b><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></b></u></div><div style="text-align: left;">1 cup and 3 tablespoons butter, softened</div><div style="text-align: left;">2 cups white sugar</div><div style="text-align: left;">4 eggs</div><div style="text-align: left;">1 teaspoon vanilla extract</div><div style="text-align: left;">5 cups all-purpose flour</div><div style="text-align: left;">2 teaspoons baking powder<br />
1 teaspoon salt</div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i>Directions:</i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><ol><li><span class="plaincharacterwrap break"> In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until smooth. Beat in eggs and vanilla. Stir in the flour, baking powder, and salt. Cover, and chill dough for at least one hour (or overnight). </span></li>
<li><span class="plaincharacterwrap break"> Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Roll out dough on floured surface 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Cut into shapes with any cookie cutter. Place cookies 1 inch apart on ungreased cookie sheets. </span></li>
<li><span class="plaincharacterwrap break"> Bake 6 to 8 minutes in preheated oven. Cool completely. </span></li>
</ol><span class="plaincharacterwrap break"><b>Sugar Cookie Icing</b> [Adapted <i>from</i> AllRecipes.com] </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="plaincharacterwrap break">I<i>ngredients:</i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;">5 cups confectioners' sugar</div><div style="text-align: left;">3 tablespoons and 1 teaspoon milk</div><div style="text-align: left;">3 tablespoons and 1 teaspoon light corn syrup</div><div style="text-align: left;">1-1/4 teaspoons almond extract</div><div style="text-align: left;">assorted food coloring</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><i>Directions:</i> </div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><ol><li><span class="plaincharacterwrap break"> In a small bowl, stir together confectioners' sugar and milk until smooth. Beat in corn syrup and almond extract until icing is smooth and glossy. If icing is too thick, add more corn syrup. </span></li>
<li><span class="plaincharacterwrap break"> Divide into separate bowls, and add food colorings to each to desired intensity. Dip cookies, or paint them with a brush.<<--I used a Wilton Pastry bag, but it is completely optional :-)</span></li>
</ol><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl3jewb5jmwPy96QxwTtRVhIpEDx_m370gFCBlrzRXyaY_DRXo6xBQ1b6ZyIrQWIELVy9jz8J7f0TrNGFNmJjKKkhn9cqi9p5RgH8BeAmI6P8wu0cnoFl4Yic1wAJTwW4iXvDwJ878uaw/s1600/DSC_0096.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl3jewb5jmwPy96QxwTtRVhIpEDx_m370gFCBlrzRXyaY_DRXo6xBQ1b6ZyIrQWIELVy9jz8J7f0TrNGFNmJjKKkhn9cqi9p5RgH8BeAmI6P8wu0cnoFl4Yic1wAJTwW4iXvDwJ878uaw/s640/DSC_0096.JPG" width="640" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div><span style="font-size: small;">Follow MTM on <b><a href="http://www.twitter.com/themoptopmaven">Twitter</a> </b>| Add MTM on<b> </b><a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/1395882/mop-top-maven"><b>Bloglovin</b>'</a> | <b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mop-Top-Maven/388676945486">Like</a></b> MTM on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mop-Top-Maven/388676945486"><b>Facebook </b> </a></span></div>Mop Top Mavenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01015978415066958745noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6619950971211244776.post-39484900507593273742010-12-21T11:30:00.000-08:002010-12-21T11:47:23.937-08:00Hair Update!<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE9YKspsnWhnBsp9QLJdtsdYLqpo7VJMFEMdchJVA-KCObYIDnzalvhrephPFB5A_xCCwVkFkSrpBwvnORqgSOpjueie-WQwuERvq2ctapoZCM2MRKG7mhsh5crrKVrI3DBLcUP0tw5YU/s1600/anotherview.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="566" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE9YKspsnWhnBsp9QLJdtsdYLqpo7VJMFEMdchJVA-KCObYIDnzalvhrephPFB5A_xCCwVkFkSrpBwvnORqgSOpjueie-WQwuERvq2ctapoZCM2MRKG7mhsh5crrKVrI3DBLcUP0tw5YU/s640/anotherview.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"> Forgive the pic quality, it's super cloudy outside. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRsufE8e7US6gnJPNinyVb4O703JFun2NjhCr8_iuLe-tV2480iAnQgGdbKrue9XVlXOAPaISXceJpITjAnVLyyLPWGuAu4sCcSQBSwxmaoG6cFtvC2B3c4clXQ3T8wx318Wyd_d7o-Yg/s1600/Bangs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="474" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRsufE8e7US6gnJPNinyVb4O703JFun2NjhCr8_iuLe-tV2480iAnQgGdbKrue9XVlXOAPaISXceJpITjAnVLyyLPWGuAu4sCcSQBSwxmaoG6cFtvC2B3c4clXQ3T8wx318Wyd_d7o-Yg/s640/Bangs.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Here's a shot of my bangs</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfDn1NFmmc1oX5aeeIUQWcCGnvCPnQonfj1-PIeEyWvnalyuXEN45azzelnp5qXCKrlXRo8M6SX6sTPb3sugmrDallSvbnndAvn0rpSiB9fjzAO-ZV36guRVKhkNFmugnM2n1Muzk74_E/s1600/LengthGoal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfDn1NFmmc1oX5aeeIUQWcCGnvCPnQonfj1-PIeEyWvnalyuXEN45azzelnp5qXCKrlXRo8M6SX6sTPb3sugmrDallSvbnndAvn0rpSiB9fjzAO-ZV36guRVKhkNFmugnM2n1Muzk74_E/s640/LengthGoal.jpg" width="610" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"> 3.25 inches until I am waist length which is my final goal </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><span style="font-size: small;">Last week I had to straighten and trim my hair for a shoot. While it was fun to go straight for a change, I didn't really have time to document the way I detangled, blow-dried, trimmed, or pressed my hair [which I will do in the next few weeks]. A lot of people ask me why I trim so much each time I straighten; the reason is that I started my hair journey with a ton of heat damage, and instead of cutting it all off at one time, I cut it gradually. After this final trim, I think I got rid of all the straight ends. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">This is the longest my hair has been in my entire life, and I definitely attribute it to limiting the amount of heat used on my hair, and all of the methods/tips/techniques I share on this site. In 2011 I hope to reach my final goal of waist-length. Here's a recap of my hair journey over the past two years. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTmMyT-GgjKRvPSvNkf4lDjtwakvkCF7WCSIrqbvc8n3VkfLp2Oa0rum6f28wg2XImhpUKgtB2p4Pj03KocO__YxUgupuNzDs15C4zsBFkXddD8Mx1jFj0bmQvpdMNugsQJaaMlZUo5Ds/s1600/hair.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTmMyT-GgjKRvPSvNkf4lDjtwakvkCF7WCSIrqbvc8n3VkfLp2Oa0rum6f28wg2XImhpUKgtB2p4Pj03KocO__YxUgupuNzDs15C4zsBFkXddD8Mx1jFj0bmQvpdMNugsQJaaMlZUo5Ds/s640/hair.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>My healthy hair journey started December 2008 with this as my starting picture.</b> As you can see, my hair was barely APL [arm pit length]. My hair at this point was very damaged. The front was breaking off [which is why it appeared layered], I had major breakage around the hairline, and nape area as well. My hair was also very thin due to excessive heat. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji3j0MT3qr_SsPJFv4HLlTeWX-gb6xKbwFmDwXp4lPnI9RZZolBOjfzYKcCsC3vg8mgHnsDN4a3NEtfM04e5jQNCHbx5x8W7BKTx1qpGAo-lsSgNztS_Y_q027s-rXgh-TUdbn1Tbypxs/s1600/BRAIDOUTS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji3j0MT3qr_SsPJFv4HLlTeWX-gb6xKbwFmDwXp4lPnI9RZZolBOjfzYKcCsC3vg8mgHnsDN4a3NEtfM04e5jQNCHbx5x8W7BKTx1qpGAo-lsSgNztS_Y_q027s-rXgh-TUdbn1Tbypxs/s640/BRAIDOUTS.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">These were my braid outs in the very beginning [the first few months <b>December 08-March 0</b>9]. I always wore them pinned back because my hair was too thin to wear it full. It always appeared sparse and "piece-y" so I just pinned the sides back. I had about 4-5 inches of heat damaged ends, so my ends were super straight. I had to put rollers on the ends of my braids just to get a slight curl. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKSq3FAN5XNpDx9pZqWUOT7Xs07WzOBM7YeU6ofTDnjBGXF-4YPZFlqC0sRjUl3TWk8PsP0lzFzTjk8_7E611mAqI82Ous8S0e4dsZ53_B7kSGA8n0Z4z_BMP5xdzTxL2kPLDsL-Tqfdk/s1600/Ayurvedic.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKSq3FAN5XNpDx9pZqWUOT7Xs07WzOBM7YeU6ofTDnjBGXF-4YPZFlqC0sRjUl3TWk8PsP0lzFzTjk8_7E611mAqI82Ous8S0e4dsZ53_B7kSGA8n0Z4z_BMP5xdzTxL2kPLDsL-Tqfdk/s640/Ayurvedic.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span style="font-size: small;"> During this time I maintained a strict Ayurvedic hair regimen</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIvKz8XS1jtUqmYw4kE7vAsdvqeN0QH8bgCneONaKX-DE1rp_I56FaU5xCa-C_4uKPZK0uU11t862ociA-xW-3lAgbCFrghRWntFRIiqFqRlO9N3BU8syB47GpreiDDAVvtfkTm7TfHGc/s1600/sideback.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIvKz8XS1jtUqmYw4kE7vAsdvqeN0QH8bgCneONaKX-DE1rp_I56FaU5xCa-C_4uKPZK0uU11t862ociA-xW-3lAgbCFrghRWntFRIiqFqRlO9N3BU8syB47GpreiDDAVvtfkTm7TfHGc/s640/sideback.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: left;">These were my twist outs in <b>August of 09</b>. I was still wearing the sides pinned because my sides were still very short. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgLePjODF3_MW1c6PmFkpWSAlS5I6CkB6EQ4yoo5AyFRzuPK1ObxLJJbdF5_LUaXm3Brk_crAqyUm0tvzBTN6t3rwig4d6LpOP7hYm3QlzE_BAtqHuEDLKSmFwN3_fjmaB-tirb-4qzDA/s1600/SetitFree3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="476" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgLePjODF3_MW1c6PmFkpWSAlS5I6CkB6EQ4yoo5AyFRzuPK1ObxLJJbdF5_LUaXm3Brk_crAqyUm0tvzBTN6t3rwig4d6LpOP7hYm3QlzE_BAtqHuEDLKSmFwN3_fjmaB-tirb-4qzDA/s640/SetitFree3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">At that time, Deva Curl products were my fave. Set it Free made my hair very shiny. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRKvwjbQ2snCAIqKHKMyGIF0rR0IevhkrXpNKz2TQY-iyIPVHll5SMA0QuiAvUrkgHyYWjzwTBCZdT-MWUMitwwswAC0CTtRdrYlkDoCxrOFKWwLp72ejcNok7DNqmlyZ4u8CUhCz4xaA/s1600/DSCF0038.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRKvwjbQ2snCAIqKHKMyGIF0rR0IevhkrXpNKz2TQY-iyIPVHll5SMA0QuiAvUrkgHyYWjzwTBCZdT-MWUMitwwswAC0CTtRdrYlkDoCxrOFKWwLp72ejcNok7DNqmlyZ4u8CUhCz4xaA/s640/DSCF0038.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">In <b>September of 2009</b>, I decided to straighten it for Labor Day. My hair is styled in a Caruso Roller Set here. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXZsi3vWqKQl0icOWLvkFcFfPSx9yR03CeC_n83Tk3UoC0yHubhzRL_M3V1c2736ItGKl3oFP7FLTE1_7G_YZJgtWSauSa5PEKxGgMc8oIi4yl7-zVLauuHFzGN0pDDfOIaMEhsgpEPQ4/s1600/trim.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="516" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXZsi3vWqKQl0icOWLvkFcFfPSx9yR03CeC_n83Tk3UoC0yHubhzRL_M3V1c2736ItGKl3oFP7FLTE1_7G_YZJgtWSauSa5PEKxGgMc8oIi4yl7-zVLauuHFzGN0pDDfOIaMEhsgpEPQ4/s640/trim.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">I trimmed my hair in <b>October 0f 2009 </b>to get rid of about 2 inches of heat damaged hair I was holding on to<b> - </b>I am almost Bra Strap Length here</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRobEvL4lJIMqk4lFEi_lJREX-L1mV1dAMljcVomQSNmtFH2-3ldbyuOwH4GkbShk71Ny2oWPefZWO7ban3lia89khbepG4h0R-092s2YFTSy8VdSKOVaso4ADba8Bp0fqxj82e9rVPqo/s1600/Photo+48.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRobEvL4lJIMqk4lFEi_lJREX-L1mV1dAMljcVomQSNmtFH2-3ldbyuOwH4GkbShk71Ny2oWPefZWO7ban3lia89khbepG4h0R-092s2YFTSy8VdSKOVaso4ADba8Bp0fqxj82e9rVPqo/s640/Photo+48.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> After trimming those heat damaged ends, I really experienced a growth spurt; this is my hair in<b> Jan 0f 2010 </b>styled in a twist out</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirS3PYmUG6RgCVTg7nGwrI5mNxV7SjRl2lbCLKJ6Cj4wWqyGEePWkQsHL8uVugVIu8ZGrNBt_gswrebrEgtl60Hevsec_kulc5MiVRJ4oPvxtD0EaCbrQGDwLNCps_X579-WNm3TCGxAw/s1600/SelfTrimming3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="486" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirS3PYmUG6RgCVTg7nGwrI5mNxV7SjRl2lbCLKJ6Cj4wWqyGEePWkQsHL8uVugVIu8ZGrNBt_gswrebrEgtl60Hevsec_kulc5MiVRJ4oPvxtD0EaCbrQGDwLNCps_X579-WNm3TCGxAw/s640/SelfTrimming3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> My hair in <b>June 2010</b> after trimming another few inches to remove the heat damaged ends I started with. I am slightly past Bra Strap Length here. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk_RQCnzY9vpK5lMFKdc-ZwbLImHOWgoLvIEYeeOfiz_-WkJjMGuLViQBDA3uf_6yx4XzYfWSbnldXrwrSwHpxFL4lSp0rq0ERryDysZO4SOdBXeiywxzmu403Txz_KGQ9IJ_NMsnEXUg/s1600/loandnik.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk_RQCnzY9vpK5lMFKdc-ZwbLImHOWgoLvIEYeeOfiz_-WkJjMGuLViQBDA3uf_6yx4XzYfWSbnldXrwrSwHpxFL4lSp0rq0ERryDysZO4SOdBXeiywxzmu403Txz_KGQ9IJ_NMsnEXUg/s640/loandnik.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">In <b>June of 2009</b>, I did another Caruso Roller Set</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2mXsTFWsAovBNJhjGi75vlCZ4_SCxmP98O60MN4MHMnpxcMh6rP39gcWGC1x02phAV_FCCzLi8G7pumYhGnCuVrCFvK-0R299bbWW2CY3S5u_Qc15O_0XWuafT-ycr2JfO-lvTcvU9jM/s1600/WeekendRecap5-3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="470" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2mXsTFWsAovBNJhjGi75vlCZ4_SCxmP98O60MN4MHMnpxcMh6rP39gcWGC1x02phAV_FCCzLi8G7pumYhGnCuVrCFvK-0R299bbWW2CY3S5u_Qc15O_0XWuafT-ycr2JfO-lvTcvU9jM/s640/WeekendRecap5-3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">At the end of <b>July 2010</b>, I decided to cut my bangs for a different look. My hair is styled in a twist out here. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikAnanbb2xwFaA7nlZ-bZg9Q-_IzQ4gHPcTbKWA1-S3EM8fTUtGHcQmn7-LsW7taxjQ0SKwSIMXRnKO7DprU3SUh-mfoJAolqwev32v6BzoiMUOUCafYCD9mruKopXI_7-KnM9C7shnpA/s1600/DSC_0034.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikAnanbb2xwFaA7nlZ-bZg9Q-_IzQ4gHPcTbKWA1-S3EM8fTUtGHcQmn7-LsW7taxjQ0SKwSIMXRnKO7DprU3SUh-mfoJAolqwev32v6BzoiMUOUCafYCD9mruKopXI_7-KnM9C7shnpA/s640/DSC_0034.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>My twist out in August 2010</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicmvkx995YzKKjbq-_911Q-2GBu_otjIZeAzpaMNx9dfLVjGyRO1rVZVSxWwhKnFvaDQ0AwDVZBO681r_hBGKuUCVDXEGz7xFHF4VcHr_vk4tf6G_EF8_7F124Jl-tKcAzlXq6Rr4W1lQ/s1600/Dry+Blowout.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="466" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicmvkx995YzKKjbq-_911Q-2GBu_otjIZeAzpaMNx9dfLVjGyRO1rVZVSxWwhKnFvaDQ0AwDVZBO681r_hBGKuUCVDXEGz7xFHF4VcHr_vk4tf6G_EF8_7F124Jl-tKcAzlXq6Rr4W1lQ/s640/Dry+Blowout.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b> In November 2010 </b>I started experimenting with dry twist outs..<b><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Follow MTM on <b><a href="http://www.twitter.com/themoptopmaven">Twitter</a> </b>| Add MTM on<b> </b><a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/1395882/mop-top-maven"><b>Bloglovin</b>'</a> | <b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mop-Top-Maven/388676945486">Like</a></b> MTM on <b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mop-Top-Maven/388676945486">Facebook </a></b></span></div>Mop Top Mavenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01015978415066958745noreply@blogger.com43tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6619950971211244776.post-83019297983198674252010-12-17T14:26:00.000-08:002010-12-17T14:29:20.691-08:00New Years Make Up Idea: Dark Smoldering Eyes, Shimmery Cheeks & Pink Lips<div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaAYmu_SUDlg1sZM3jWusu0ZaU2VTHqK96vkADgn3gzVR03p37m5E3oPGv1lHc35ycc89yu6mqnbq9f-nDR3aYqi8RrJ7ulGp4V4Dmnx-Leg8_t5joSAp7bFPo0eLHWHiAMPLzbbO0sHE/s1600/NikNewYears3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaAYmu_SUDlg1sZM3jWusu0ZaU2VTHqK96vkADgn3gzVR03p37m5E3oPGv1lHc35ycc89yu6mqnbq9f-nDR3aYqi8RrJ7ulGp4V4Dmnx-Leg8_t5joSAp7bFPo0eLHWHiAMPLzbbO0sHE/s640/NikNewYears3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">I'm really looking forward to getting dressed up and celebrating the many blessings 2010 has brought. I have been keeping an eye out for red carpet-worthy looks that translate well off the carpet. My favorite look right now is this sultry, yet playful look I spotted on several celebs and editorials. - What I love about it is how easy it is to pull off. The only trick is keeping a steady hand while rimming the upper and lower lashline. Everything else is a cakewalk. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4SK7mBKj1iFomiYlpbpUpXf-wpQrg5PpwSc3RWxAgSQUu3Sc-j59ThgSa50b8XDll1-112ZJbOgJKQs9-fLKAE3KVXyAaPZNHRpwBiZ479xPqqQBAqSNIrd2_Ce31H1cj_b0KlDDo6dU/s1600/Smoldering+Eyes+Main.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4SK7mBKj1iFomiYlpbpUpXf-wpQrg5PpwSc3RWxAgSQUu3Sc-j59ThgSa50b8XDll1-112ZJbOgJKQs9-fLKAE3KVXyAaPZNHRpwBiZ479xPqqQBAqSNIrd2_Ce31H1cj_b0KlDDo6dU/s640/Smoldering+Eyes+Main.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><span style="font-size: small;">I played around with this look until I found the best combination of products to pull it off! The key is keeping the face simple while really playing up the eyes and lips. I also have to give all the glory to Bobbi Browns Gel liner {in Black Ink}. This liner pops really well on us gals with darker skin tones. I am a fan of MAC's fluidline eyeliner in Blacktrack, however Bobbi Brown's formula is much darker, making it the perfect liner for an intense smokey eye. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Another winner was using my ULTA Electro pencil in Khaki. I used it to rim my entire eye with a pop of green color. This makes the eyeliner less harsh, and more playful, sultry, and edgy. Play with different colors like shades of purple, blue, silver and even gold. - </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTXedYOczDOa51axOgwuD-V2x7II4fzsvmZuP-15HazxLb7VKm_GWXHrMQXHtWMLpw0c2qLqZ5bh3v9Z2wn12pRM0GXNrUbJ-9wGu08aM_h_tTh7CzkWD95vicQynwllhChuOnXb57W-w/s1600/NikEyes.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="504" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTXedYOczDOa51axOgwuD-V2x7II4fzsvmZuP-15HazxLb7VKm_GWXHrMQXHtWMLpw0c2qLqZ5bh3v9Z2wn12pRM0GXNrUbJ-9wGu08aM_h_tTh7CzkWD95vicQynwllhChuOnXb57W-w/s640/NikEyes.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><span style="font-size: small;">For the pink lippy, I used Lip Tar's "Demure". A perfect fuchsia for almost every skin tone. I topped off the look with rosey-colored cheeks. Loverush and Style were my blush's of choice by MAC. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Total Sidebar:</b> You may notice the straight hair in these pictures! I straightened and trimmed my hair for a shoot I did, and didn't have time to film the process. I will however update in the next few days with a length update and subsequent posts about how to maintain it, as well as various styling options...and of course, a Caruso Roller-Setting Video Tutorial :-)</span><br />
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<u><b><span style="font-size: small;">To get this look, you will need:</span></b></u><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Bobby Brown Gel Eyeliner in "Black Ink"</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Ulta Electro Pencil in "Khaki"</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Select MAC Coverup Concealer</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Lip Tar in "Demure"</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: small;">Nail your smokey eyes in 6 easy steps:</span></b><br />
<ol><li><span style="font-size: small;">Apply concealer on your eyelid and lower lashline. Try to pick a concealer that brightens like Select Coverup by MAC. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;">Line your upper and lower lashline with your gel eyeliner </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;">Line your waterline with any black eyeliner pencil</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;">With your colored eyeshadow pencil, gently draw a line <u><i>underneath</i></u> the black liner near the lower lashline. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;">Using the same colored pencil, lightly sweep pops of color on your eyelid and smudge the color over your entire lid using your finger or smudging brush</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: small;">Add two coats of mascara to upper and lower lashes and that's it! </span></li>
</ol><b><span style="font-size: small;">Nail shimmery cheeks in 2 easy steps:</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><ol><li>Apply your rose colored blush to the apples of your cheeks</li>
<li>Apply a frosty or shimmery colored blush slightly above the apple of your cheeks. This acts as a highlighter and accentuates the contouring done by the blush. </li>
</ol><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><span style="font-size: small;">Follow MTM on <b><a href="http://www.twitter.com/themoptopmaven">Twitter</a> </b>| Add MTM on<b> </b><a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/1395882/mop-top-maven"><b>Bloglovin</b>'</a> | <b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mop-Top-Maven/388676945486">Like</a></b> MTM on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mop-Top-Maven/388676945486"><b>Facebook </b> </a></span></div>Mop Top Mavenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01015978415066958745noreply@blogger.com35tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6619950971211244776.post-55006210148085314692010-12-17T11:49:00.000-08:002010-12-17T11:49:45.440-08:00Model Behavior: Simple Touch Up Tips To Keep Your Makeup Flawless All Day Long!<div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHt7TSaez-S3PWDFGzTWaPtPAknj6Pfxjom_IZcIqL2cFCLrynh8X-rTHuueVr2dadCWC5ip6C8HzqxAqQP07Df5FnZ3UqCcmMRGL7t9l8vOW8Qfn5o5ONPUe1ERxnOOkOAjuFtYPvhvA/s1600/touchup+tips.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="468" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHt7TSaez-S3PWDFGzTWaPtPAknj6Pfxjom_IZcIqL2cFCLrynh8X-rTHuueVr2dadCWC5ip6C8HzqxAqQP07Df5FnZ3UqCcmMRGL7t9l8vOW8Qfn5o5ONPUe1ERxnOOkOAjuFtYPvhvA/s640/touchup+tips.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"> <span style="font-size: x-small;">{<a href="http://www.thefashionspot.com/">source</a>}<span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Headed to a few soiree's this Holiday Season? Keeping your makeup fresh all day long can be a pain for those of us that are always on the go. Here is a list of short yet useful tips that will keep your face fresh, dewy, and flawless all day long. Refresh your makeup after work, or in between parties with these simple tips and tools. </span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></span></span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Your touch-up bag should include:</span></span></span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Clean applicator sponges</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Pressed powder</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Q-tips</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Moisturizer</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Lip color</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Lip liner</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Lip gloss</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Pearlescent eyeshadow </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Blotting tissues </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Bronzer/Highlighter</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Control shine:</b> Before applying additional powder to your face, make sure to blot excess oil on your face with the use of blotting papers. Areas to pay special attention to are the eyelids, T-zone, and chin. Out of blotting papers? Take a trip to the ladies room and use the toilet seat covers. They work quite well :-) </span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></span></span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Buff it out:</b> After removing the excess oil from your skin, use a clean sponge to gently smooth your makeup using a buffing motion. This smooths out the harsh lines, creases, and other imperfections caused by sweat and oil. </span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Reapply:</b> Reapply pressed powder as needed to mattify oil prone areas of your skin. I recommend using a small fluffy brush to apply your pressed powder. Using a sponge, or puff is great for a first time application, however for a touch up, you want something that offers a lighter application. </span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></span></span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Eyeshadow check:</b> Is your eyeshadow blotchy? Reapplying the color may add to your dilemma by causing additional creases and streaking. Instead, blot eyes, smooth eyeshadow with a clean sponge, then apply a tiny amount of sheer, creamy shadow [preferably a pearlescent color] all over your lid. </span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Under-eye check:</b> Check under the eye for smeared eyeliner or eyeshadow. If you notice any imperfections near this area, dip a cotton swab in a dollop of moisturizer and gently remove the imperfections with your swab. Using the moisturizer helps remove the product efficiently without breaking down the foundation/concealer underneath it. </span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Revive lip-color:</b> You can revive faded lip color by adding a bit of gloss. For a complete overhaul, remove lip color and liner completely and moisturize your lips for about 1-2 minutes with your favorite moisturizer. This keeps your lips supple, soft, and smooth for the next lip color application.</span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Highlight: </b>To add warmth and dimension to your face [which gives a more natural look], add a bit of bronzer, shimmery blush, or your favorite highlighting product. Using a soft dusting motion, lightly sweep color on the following areas: the tops of your cheeks, the bridge of your nose, and your chin. </span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span> </span></span></div><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Follow MTM on <b><a href="http://www.twitter.com/themoptopmaven">Twitter</a> </b>| Add MTM on<b> </b><a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/1395882/mop-top-maven"><b>Bloglovin</b>'</a> | <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mop-Top-Maven/388676945486">Like</a> MTM on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mop-Top-Maven/388676945486">Facebook </a></span></div>Mop Top Mavenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01015978415066958745noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6619950971211244776.post-46632325238281294492010-12-16T09:57:00.000-08:002010-12-16T10:14:34.343-08:00Update On Lo's Hair!! + How To Get Your Stylist To Take Better Care Of Your Hair!<div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf1CkJ5el4HYsXBqMlFbuQlg8WtkJPVyLB7yeSdRkvHGvY0B-htntyBA8KvcZhMJRyLpeyHZQO4Q6gKL6JM7jwg2HTDfqVacsV0PqYWwO9yAaDO2f7vntIm_kw2h4o7YgLqx0wegceJyQ/s1600/WeekendInPhotosMain1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf1CkJ5el4HYsXBqMlFbuQlg8WtkJPVyLB7yeSdRkvHGvY0B-htntyBA8KvcZhMJRyLpeyHZQO4Q6gKL6JM7jwg2HTDfqVacsV0PqYWwO9yAaDO2f7vntIm_kw2h4o7YgLqx0wegceJyQ/s640/WeekendInPhotosMain1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Many of you may remember my partner in crime Lo! And those that may not know her by name may remember seeing her thick, black, curly mane on my blog! After almost two years of not pressing her hair, Lo decided to pay a trip to a stylist to get her hair done a few weeks ago to change up her mojo!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsHRcVB-bt9d8l-Y-oV6QjMH_nkwIYI56OKMqZSB8E4Cbn0jUXy_DDFy6nSvjnauD75mEQPtK6AVwvwB5UdVgLOiVTzDory40sn0LDeo6g3JDrpoxhVY-COhNqvUf4j0NyRRaUkJHp9EE/s1600/Lo1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="528" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsHRcVB-bt9d8l-Y-oV6QjMH_nkwIYI56OKMqZSB8E4Cbn0jUXy_DDFy6nSvjnauD75mEQPtK6AVwvwB5UdVgLOiVTzDory40sn0LDeo6g3JDrpoxhVY-COhNqvUf4j0NyRRaUkJHp9EE/s640/Lo1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Almost two years ago, she big chopped and rocked a tiny TWA under wigs until she started wearing her hair in twist-outs as pictured above. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8kl6j5UHX335RsfCSAsy3uu9LEs1y-ZWNfrszM2ZA8DslpYV_-DfW12ZlcVFO4AgDkttQtXdEYsxlCDejfNPlfjnVuiLBvwkSbFZs2TQb-WyZAdyB32g8ypJg1NvV1VjPuE_3OseIYJc/s640/Lori+Hair.jpg" width="640" /></div><span style="font-size: small;">A few weeks ago, she decided to go straight for the winter! </span><br />
<div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Over dinner, we discussed how difficult it is finding a stylist that not only caters to natural hair, but also specializes in healthy hair care. Many stylists are thoroughly trained on how to properly execute a style to satisfy their patrons, but often techniques like blow-drying, pressing, and the use of styling aids are done without the health of your hair in mind. - It is for this reason that it is important to not only monitor the habits of your stylist, but talk to them about your goals, expectations, and hair regimen before going through with the service. </span><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="background-color: #b6d7a8; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Here are some important things to look out for and discuss when choosing a stylist:</b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Does your stylist "scratch" or "massage" your scalp when shampooing:</b> Scratching the hair can weaken the bond between the hair and follicle which could later lead to hair loss. Massaging or rubbing the scalp is a healthier, more effective alternative. </span><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Bring your own products:</b> If you notice your hair is drier than usual, or your scalp is dry and flaky after a service, it could be from your stylists shampoo or conditioner; opt instead to bring your own. </span><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Pack your own microfiber towel: </b>Cotton terry towels can wreak havoc on all hair types and textures, so it is important to use a microfiber towel when towel drying your hair. Microfiber towels absorb more moisture and also help cut down on frizz, eliminate split ends and damaged follicles [from towel drying]. If your salon doesn't carry microfiber towels, bring one with you! </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><br />
</b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Towel dry thoroughly: </b>Towel drying thoroughly means less time spent blow-drying. Less time blow drying means less heat which equals happy hair. Make sure your stylist gently squeezes your hair with a towel versus rubbing hair; as rubbing can cause split ends, breakage and follicular damage. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><br />
</b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Avoid mechanical damage:</b> You can avoid split ends, single strand knots, breakage, and eliminate fly-aways by speaking to your stylist about the manner in which they detangle your hair. Don't be afraid to speak up, it's your hair, and you are paying for the service. Be leery of a stylist that isn't attentive to your needs. <b>Remember to express the following to your stylist:</b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><blockquote><ul><li><span style="font-size: small;">Hair should be detangled in small sections using a wide tooth, seamless comb [bring your own if you have to] </span></li>
</ul></blockquote><blockquote><ul><li><span style="font-size: small;">Hair should never be detangled while it is soaking wet, as that is when your hair is in it's most fragile state. Instead make sure hair is towel dried thoroughly. </span></li>
</ul></blockquote><blockquote><ul><li><span style="font-size: small;">Stylist should lubricate hair with either a light leave-in or serum to help the comb better glide through the hair. </span></li>
</ul></blockquote><blockquote><ul><li><span style="font-size: small;">Stylist should hold the hair closest to the roots whilst detangling to help reduce the amount of tension placed on the follicles. </span></li>
</ul></blockquote><blockquote><ul><li><span style="font-size: small;">Hair should always be detangled from the bottom up. </span></li>
</ul></blockquote><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Proper blow drying techniques:</b> Highly textured, kinky hair should never be blow-dried on high heat. However many stylist may choose to do so to get the hair as straight as possible prior to pressing. While it may make the hair easier to manipulate when pressing, it can dry the hair out, and make the hair overly porous. Overly porous hair will have a hard time retaining moisture, and breakage/split ends can occur. - Also keep an eye out for how close the blow-dryer is to your scalp/hair; a healthy distance is between 6-8 inches. If you notice your scalp is tight, flaky and dry after blow-drying, the stylist either had the blow dryer too close, too hot, or a combination of both.<b> </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Go easy on the spritz's and serums:</b> Yes hair spray may help keep every hair in place, but they can also be very drying on the hair due to the alcohol content. Spraying each section of hair before pressing or curling it with hair spray that contains alcohol can be a recipe for disaster [breakage, split ends]. Excessive use of serums can also shorten the time span of your hairstyle. Hair that is weighed down with serums gets stiffer and dirtier quicker than hair with minimal product. - If you want to minimize the amount of time you see a stylist monthly, make sure to talk to them about going easy on the styling aids.<b> </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Heat control: </b>This is a biggie. How much heat is your stylist using? Unfortunately it is impossible to know how hot the pressing comb is before the stylist presses your hair. You can however take note of these signs that may indicate the incorrect temperature: </span><br />
<div style="text-align: left;"><blockquote><ul><li><span style="font-size: small;">You start to notice areas of hair that don't revert, or the ends of your hair may appear straight when your hair is wet. </span></li>
</ul></blockquote><blockquote><ul><li><span style="font-size: small;">You start to notice thinning, usually it appears first around the area that frames your face [bangs, and sides of your hair]</span></li>
</ul></blockquote><blockquote><ul><li><span style="font-size: small;">Hair may also be dry and brittle to the touch [keep in mind that brittle hair can also be a result of improper blow drying techniques, and the excessive use of styling aids containing alcohol<b>.</b></span></li>
</ul></blockquote><blockquote><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Make sure the pressing combs are cleaned regularly: </b>Pressing combs that are cleaned thoroughly give you a straighter, sleeker press, and are actually less damaging than combs that are loaded with buildup. If you notice your hair has a weird smell after a service, chances are the combs were not cleaned prior to using them [I typically clean my combs after each use, which completely eliminates that "pressed hair smell"]. </span><ul></ul></blockquote></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Follow MTM on <b><a href="http://www.twitter.com/themoptopmaven">Twitter</a> </b>| Add MTM on<b> </b><a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/1395882/mop-top-maven"><b>Bloglovin</b>'</a> | <b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mop-Top-Maven/388676945486">Like</a></b> MTM on <b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mop-Top-Maven/388676945486">Facebook </a></b></span></div>Mop Top Mavenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01015978415066958745noreply@blogger.com40tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6619950971211244776.post-83837140585317231592010-12-14T12:29:00.000-08:002010-12-14T12:36:48.172-08:00Fashion & Beauty Ethos: Fur Vests; Love It Or Leave It?<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh3NdCgE0Ci1HOBvfHsl6ZrJu3HKGRI_3boCICWS8uzR7XrQqA2ZoHnbp0dFlsby3-kIcrM35_-WN3EqzVRsPf2WVdGoGpyjvLyvG4Tk30DZUT_F5_CMVbc-P6vKZLRpoJu-xhqNf5xwg/s1600/furvest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh3NdCgE0Ci1HOBvfHsl6ZrJu3HKGRI_3boCICWS8uzR7XrQqA2ZoHnbp0dFlsby3-kIcrM35_-WN3EqzVRsPf2WVdGoGpyjvLyvG4Tk30DZUT_F5_CMVbc-P6vKZLRpoJu-xhqNf5xwg/s640/furvest.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> [<a href="http://www.fuckyeahcurlscurlscurls.tumblr.com/">source</a>]</span></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">After having heinous faux fur vest experience at one of my favorite stores, I was against the whole fur vest movement. Looking back on it, I think I over-styled the outfit. My hair was too big [I really felt like a lion with the hair and the vest], and the outfit too busy for a piece that commands that much attention. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">However after seeing it on a few people, worn different ways, I think I am better equipped to revisit the trend. What I love about fur vests is that it really can up the ante on skinny jeans and a tee, flowy bohemian maxi dreses, and even slouchy boyfriend jeans and a plain white hubby beater. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8P6r4pHtBYpTW1xmjdfrRcmP9uuRYCK58JgXHzDs9KK2PH8z_d64I4Xese6qhi40oes6cPlMixhN_9VD4hMRWW8GJyTY_1l8YLtSJa4W6cYwkJHLJp55dnfBo1nyDMROOQ3Oy-7uivLI/s1600/Fur+Vests+Kelly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="496" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8P6r4pHtBYpTW1xmjdfrRcmP9uuRYCK58JgXHzDs9KK2PH8z_d64I4Xese6qhi40oes6cPlMixhN_9VD4hMRWW8GJyTY_1l8YLtSJa4W6cYwkJHLJp55dnfBo1nyDMROOQ3Oy-7uivLI/s640/Fur+Vests+Kelly.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">For more of a funky look you can wear one open with a flirty skirt and a long sleeve shirt. Or you can belt it, throw on some leggings, boots, and a plain long sleeve shirt for a chic, yet effortless look. I definitely recommend taking cues from Kelly by keeping the pieces simple, and the patterns to a minimum because you really want the vest to take center stage. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFLFumaiYTR0afV5t-UUbkVMoLxyRIxvm4y6wOgZy5QjKN-czc1oA-wmfQMiXuwljjMi-yPx-UhZVOxAGIom-dRMK88axG8B9aV_oVtVM8wtrqLSLvByzkgeJfvcet4ZaM-yAtv6Dmrcg/s1600/Fur+Vests.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="496" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFLFumaiYTR0afV5t-UUbkVMoLxyRIxvm4y6wOgZy5QjKN-czc1oA-wmfQMiXuwljjMi-yPx-UhZVOxAGIom-dRMK88axG8B9aV_oVtVM8wtrqLSLvByzkgeJfvcet4ZaM-yAtv6Dmrcg/s640/Fur+Vests.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Again I love how Ciara kept the silhouette clean by belting the vest and opting for a monochromatic color palette. For more of stylized, edgy look, you can leave the vest open and throw on some leather driving gloves, or 5-finger half gloves like these at Patricia Fields:</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD9H-hXWFSBZdPTXusvAjjXrWtjJdl4fEk9dlGxSGj59wXflngvfX6lPOt5Xt9VdpzbUEcyAwG-jL7fBimYh_S6w60OJNWAGoLamUcnhj_qX0biqSr87YrHXTyZayoFQeLCa6S13Cu-C0/s1600/5_finger.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD9H-hXWFSBZdPTXusvAjjXrWtjJdl4fEk9dlGxSGj59wXflngvfX6lPOt5Xt9VdpzbUEcyAwG-jL7fBimYh_S6w60OJNWAGoLamUcnhj_qX0biqSr87YrHXTyZayoFQeLCa6S13Cu-C0/s1600/5_finger.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">$48 - <a href="http://www.patriciafield.com/5-fingerhalfglove.aspx">Patricia Fields</a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAdJ_Nn5-kkyegFNczLD3B5-6ZhuLY6dSjBy_AFge6b7RetrOpvqYkP5GQvhvgf34Vedppue4TJYnQqtoQ-YhyphenhyphensoSD9WPrBPzucHNBEmnDnfOuHinh5olQuKAfZeOCv8I8U_jvGPwquBs/s1600/Arlenis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAdJ_Nn5-kkyegFNczLD3B5-6ZhuLY6dSjBy_AFge6b7RetrOpvqYkP5GQvhvgf34Vedppue4TJYnQqtoQ-YhyphenhyphensoSD9WPrBPzucHNBEmnDnfOuHinh5olQuKAfZeOCv8I8U_jvGPwquBs/s640/Arlenis.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"> Arlenis wears her fur vest with military inspired pants, and buckle boots which gives this look a chic, utilitarian feel. </span><br />
<div class="ShopStyleSpreadLook" style="background-color: white; border: 0px solid rgb(185, 185, 185); padding: 0pt; position: relative; width: 478px;"><div style="height: 255px; position: relative; text-align: right; width: 100%;"><div style="left: 10px; margin: 0pt; padding: 0pt; position: absolute; top: 1px;"><img alt="Kensie, Arden B" src="http://img.shopstyle.com/uim/y2010/d343/7a/7ae4526b7f740b3d17da759ae0ff72ae.jpg" style="border: 0pt none; left: 0pt; margin: 0pt; position: absolute; top: 0pt;" /><a href="http://www.shopstyle.com/action/apiVisitRetailer?id=182173652&pid=uid5969-1663313-5" style="background-color: transparent;" target="_blank"><img src="http://resources.shopstyle.com/4b389/im/cleardot.gif" style="background-color: transparent; border: 0pt none; height: 209px; left: 349px; position: absolute; top: 24px; width: 106px; z-index: 97;" /></a><a href="http://www.shopstyle.com/action/apiVisitRetailer?id=185403597&pid=uid5969-1663313-5" style="background-color: transparent;" target="_blank"><img src="http://resources.shopstyle.com/4b389/im/cleardot.gif" style="background-color: transparent; border: 0pt none; cursor: pointer; height: 235px; left: 198px; position: absolute; top: 20px; width: 176px; z-index: 16;" /></a><a href="http://www.shopstyle.com/action/apiVisitRetailer?id=180408706&pid=uid5969-1663313-5" style="background-color: transparent;" target="_blank"><img src="http://resources.shopstyle.com/4b389/im/cleardot.gif" style="background-color: transparent; border: 0pt none; cursor: pointer; height: 201px; left: 109px; position: absolute; top: 28px; width: 122px; z-index: 65;" /></a><a href="http://www.shopstyle.com/action/apiVisitRetailer?id=179096879&pid=uid5969-1663313-5" style="background-color: transparent;" target="_blank"><img src="http://resources.shopstyle.com/4b389/im/cleardot.gif" style="background-color: transparent; border: 0pt none; cursor: pointer; height: 236px; left: 0px; position: absolute; top: 0px; width: 106px; z-index: 33;" /></a></div></div><div style="bottom: 0px; color: #606060; font: 11px Verdana,sans-serif; height: 38px; left: 3px; letter-spacing: normal; position: relative; width: 100%;"><div style="left: 3px; position: absolute; top: 5px; width: 400px;"><a href="http://www.shopstyle.com/browse/fur-and-shearling-coats?fl=r76##pid=uid5969-1663313-5" style="background-color: transparent; color: #606060; font: 11px Verdana,sans-serif; text-decoration: none;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Fur Coats</span> at Piperlime</a><br />
<a href="http://www.shopstyle.com/browse/fur-and-shearling-coats/Kensie##pid=uid5969-1663313-5" style="background-color: transparent; color: #606060; font: 11px Verdana,sans-serif; text-decoration: none;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Fur Coats</span> by Kensie</a></div><a href="http://www.shopstyle.com/#pid=uid5969-1663313-5"><img alt="ShopStyle" src="http://resources.shopstyle.com/im/widget/ShopStyleLogo_powered.png" style="border-style: none; bottom: 6px; margin: 0pt; position: absolute; right: 6px;" /></a></div></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">The good thing about this trend is that it is accessible on every budget. The vests pictured above are all under $89, however you can find them even cheaper at the stores mentioned below! - Remember if you pick up one of these to keep the silhouette clean, accessories & hair simple, and the color play to a minimum to help you nail the look! </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>$18-$35</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Forever 21 </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">H&M</span><span style="font-size: small;"><b> </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b>$65-85</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Zara </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Bebe</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Anthropologie </span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Are you feeling the Fur Vest trend? <br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Follow MTM on <b><a href="http://www.twitter.com/themoptopmaven">Twitter</a> </b>| Add MTM on<b> </b><a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/1395882/mop-top-maven"><b>Bloglovin</b>'</a> | <b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mop-Top-Maven/388676945486">Like</a></b> MTM on <b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mop-Top-Maven/388676945486">Facebook </a></b></span></div>Mop Top Mavenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01015978415066958745noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6619950971211244776.post-31248529103169659552010-12-14T11:55:00.000-08:002010-12-14T11:55:58.041-08:00All About Hair: Why Dandruff Shampoo's Could Cause Hair Loss<div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtkmHFlPYYFQx7VJW_Z7mNtN0guwJbZ79gP1P7ZTubpRkJBvFH6SIQ6l2njuad3znT6ocD_KCxJHp0heB8q3lgQsct6UXnctE5qBjN6B6dVKdfTXNF55rG8qAmhcnpxp5BKFKIyxuGMkg/s1600/hairpost.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtkmHFlPYYFQx7VJW_Z7mNtN0guwJbZ79gP1P7ZTubpRkJBvFH6SIQ6l2njuad3znT6ocD_KCxJHp0heB8q3lgQsct6UXnctE5qBjN6B6dVKdfTXNF55rG8qAmhcnpxp5BKFKIyxuGMkg/s640/hairpost.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> [<a href="http://www.fuckyeahcurlscurlscurls.tumblr.com/">source</a>]</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Healthy hair starts at the scalp. If you're having issues with an itchy, flaky, dry scalp; chances are you may have also experienced breakage [from lack of moisture], thinning [from buildup of dead skin] and lack of luster and body. - This post is meant to stress the importance of picking and choosing healthy hair care treatments as some commercial products can exacerbate these issues. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">While there are many commercial products I love, there are some that only camouflage certain issues, while causing problems in other areas. Take dandruff shampoo's for example, dandruff shampoo's do not actually correct the underlying root of dandruff. Dandruff shampoo's simply mask the issues with scalp inflammation by creating a film over the scalp thereby giving the illusion the dandruff issue was corrected. There are several problems with this; (1) that "film" on your scalp acts as a barrier from air, and moisture which makes the perfect breeding ground for more bacteria. More bacteria means more dandruff. This is why many complain that their symptoms worsen after using dandruff shampoos. The (2nd) issue is that using these products could cause hair thinning/breakage because of the buildup of dead skin cells present which clogs the hair follicle and acts as a thick barrier preventing nourishment and moisture from reaching the scalp. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Another culprit in dandruff shampoo's are the SLES [sulfates]. These are the surfactants used to strip the hair of bacteria and excess sebum. Pityrosporum Ovale [the fungus that causes dandruff] thrives off of overactive sebaceous glands; and this is why many dandruff shampoo's are formulated with harsh sulfates. The theory is that the issue with dandruff will be corrected by stripping the hair of excess oil and creating a film over the scalp preventing flakes from falling. Unfortunately though, the sulfates dry the scalp out to the point that your glands produce more sebum as a result of the imbalance. This results in a constant cycle of drying out the hair which may temporarily stop dandruff, then the reoccurance of dandruff, and possibly hair loss/breakage. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Choosing an effective hair care regimen starts by properly diagnosing hair care issues, and prescribing an effective solution. Here are some additional causes of dry, itchy scalp [not related to the overproduction of sebum]: </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Hair care products:</b> Some products contain alcohols or other harsh chemicals that are drying to the scalp. Many times the issue can be corrected by discontinuing use. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Heat:</b> Are you blow-drying too close to your scalp? Is your pressing comb or flat iron too hot? All of the above can cause itching and flaking of the scalp. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Product Buildup: </b>Product buildup can cause a film over the scalp trapping bacteria and dead skin cells which can eventually lead to scalp inflammation, hair loss and or breakage. Clarify your hair with a gentle cleanser or Apple Cider treatment to see if issues are corrected.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
Finally, if your dandruff is related to the overproduction of sebum; here are a few effective alternatives for helping correct chronic scalp issues without the nasty side-effects:</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="height: 212px; position: relative; text-align: right; width: 100%;"><div style="left: 6px; margin: 0pt; padding: 0pt; position: absolute; top: 1px;"><a href="http://www.shopstyle.com/action/viewLook?id=2173752&pid=uid5969-1663313-5" style="border: medium none; outline: medium none;"><img alt="Carter's, Phyto, Ion" src="http://www.shopstyle.com/action/spreadWidgetImage?look=2173752&size=Large" style="border: 0pt none; left: 0pt; margin: 0pt; position: absolute; top: 0pt;" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b> </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Ion Scalp Exfoliating Treatment:</b> This inexpensive product [$2.99] can be found at your local Sally's Beauty Supply. It is formulated to help remove dead skin cells, excess sebum and relieve issues associated with skin inflammation. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Phyto Scalp Elixir: </b>This is a blend of essential oils mixed in a carrier oil base [corn oil]. While I do like this product, those that are handy in the kitchen can whip up their own mix using the same essential oils but in a better carrier oil like Jojoba. - With all of that being said [<i>lol</i>] this product can relieve scalp issues associated with skin inflammation and encourage healthy hair growth.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b> </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Jane Carter, Scalp Nourishing Serum: </b>My favorite product for protecting and nourishing the scalp. This all natural product is formulated with essential oils that delivers nutrients deep into the cortex whilst promoting healthy hair growth. Not only does it nourish and promote growth, it also corrects chronic scalp issues naturally. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Tip: </b>Use this product around the nape and hairline to promote growth to those areas. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>John Masters Organics Deep Scalp Follicle Treatment:</b> Another highly recommended product, this treatment can correct excess sebum production, protect your scalp from free radicals, promote growth, and correct chronic scalp issues. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
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</span></div><span style="font-size: small;">Follow MTM on <b><a href="http://www.twitter.com/themoptopmaven">Twitter</a> </b>| Add MTM on<b> </b><a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/1395882/mop-top-maven"><b>Bloglovin</b>'</a> | <b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mop-Top-Maven/388676945486">Like</a></b> MTM on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mop-Top-Maven/388676945486"><b>Facebook</b> </a></span></div>Mop Top Mavenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01015978415066958745noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6619950971211244776.post-11142564487125377402010-12-13T14:00:00.000-08:002010-12-13T14:02:22.404-08:00Instant Funk: Note To Self...<div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1VAZQSjobmhrco2Sc37LfGOkVdk6K_PstV8NF2aEvtuPVw8MKMU1NBxiD9hukT3kAcUG-4PE2Otaobs0o-A1xdc2mxiilT3n1nVyCRaLYVSH9He9kmerfp0ZPnfUIluX3_BezVpdV1_g/s1600/instantfunk001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1VAZQSjobmhrco2Sc37LfGOkVdk6K_PstV8NF2aEvtuPVw8MKMU1NBxiD9hukT3kAcUG-4PE2Otaobs0o-A1xdc2mxiilT3n1nVyCRaLYVSH9He9kmerfp0ZPnfUIluX3_BezVpdV1_g/s640/instantfunk001.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span style="font-size: small;"> Must play around with large scarves. Not only is this look adorable, but it protects the hair during the winter too. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimv6E7DZfDmqdmXe9iKWiZmKQeRA0k4W5n4XSIRXz-Ao79FNrD_y1YxtEnwg9Yn-4n1vvaiF5V0UES3eU94XAbvZvHnuqnySHB4UY0fXEzmT1JrV-fbhWxoCciW-pfFFcHcTF5quQKY_k/s1600/bighair.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="464" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimv6E7DZfDmqdmXe9iKWiZmKQeRA0k4W5n4XSIRXz-Ao79FNrD_y1YxtEnwg9Yn-4n1vvaiF5V0UES3eU94XAbvZvHnuqnySHB4UY0fXEzmT1JrV-fbhWxoCciW-pfFFcHcTF5quQKY_k/s640/bighair.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span style="font-size: small;">Attempt different styling techniques for bigger, curlier hair </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRceEhcOtPQX2wn6CDY5-nUzrXTB0OPoadfWOBhVMqfU6q1X8IHEMzHgLLJ4zg5-l9phwqxN0S5rk0IJLm79a0xtv5J2Ey9Jd9fyd5329fRwaU2bfnX9qgcZ6HR-96_Yni0Yjh4qpY9_s/s1600/instantfunk010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="488" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRceEhcOtPQX2wn6CDY5-nUzrXTB0OPoadfWOBhVMqfU6q1X8IHEMzHgLLJ4zg5-l9phwqxN0S5rk0IJLm79a0xtv5J2Ey9Jd9fyd5329fRwaU2bfnX9qgcZ6HR-96_Yni0Yjh4qpY9_s/s640/instantfunk010.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span style="font-size: small;">Must find long sleeve mini dresses for winter. Such a chic look </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgas6wkGguPaMD0uFkyuIfN-ldarVSl6sJbD3hWAwjLMeAikviw1iZ11kS3PmqGc7KLwr6rCGt6-VtKKTzfNg-oiC6SRcEMp4yapwrgLKWU1dbvHVyvrKPimojpiY_B62WnCk_mtxG8HZo/s1600/Updospread.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="464" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgas6wkGguPaMD0uFkyuIfN-ldarVSl6sJbD3hWAwjLMeAikviw1iZ11kS3PmqGc7KLwr6rCGt6-VtKKTzfNg-oiC6SRcEMp4yapwrgLKWU1dbvHVyvrKPimojpiY_B62WnCk_mtxG8HZo/s640/Updospread.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span style="font-size: small;">Tackle my fear of updo's and go for it! </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcSKhOLg_TweLMNCby-PVy9XkDsCcaFIHCjj4tla43o1Mbphfxtai3JgvN1RK-biC4HSgXWMrZa9n0lz9DghOcSbtKPa383MpfI90itqSqZPKL_Fs-TifDHr4pwns-8GKOz2q48NbrW_o/s1600/instantfunk007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcSKhOLg_TweLMNCby-PVy9XkDsCcaFIHCjj4tla43o1Mbphfxtai3JgvN1RK-biC4HSgXWMrZa9n0lz9DghOcSbtKPa383MpfI90itqSqZPKL_Fs-TifDHr4pwns-8GKOz2q48NbrW_o/s640/instantfunk007.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span style="font-size: small;">Peruse the local thrift shops until I find a Shearling bomber similar to this one.</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSlCYO1Hl50VZr_pQ1w0nTOP_H8bTT4x9ouXN_5iTYSDWVOL5wPPmsm-qvD-LMYdTPPH1YlN0sW5yk6vLKmrefIf-gO3Vda8vZDVh7y1QB5PtHNiudeZrpslNEcwTHvBI9KGGbeL3Gu1o/s1600/statement.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="464" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSlCYO1Hl50VZr_pQ1w0nTOP_H8bTT4x9ouXN_5iTYSDWVOL5wPPmsm-qvD-LMYdTPPH1YlN0sW5yk6vLKmrefIf-gO3Vda8vZDVh7y1QB5PtHNiudeZrpslNEcwTHvBI9KGGbeL3Gu1o/s640/statement.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span style="font-size: small;">Pull out my asymmetrical tops & structural blazers</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwFl5zJrZp3dbApWaWBRmuH8117jI_tEoOzqMhIqmAEQkZ1fmNV3j4UpdZH_UAL_MRy7jsZ2iZttvIrdMPx4d6uJw6HPyD4D0hTbch7PAFi30ai2G4-57Mi-1_jO_-APw9PK3gACTbPrg/s1600/instantfunk013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwFl5zJrZp3dbApWaWBRmuH8117jI_tEoOzqMhIqmAEQkZ1fmNV3j4UpdZH_UAL_MRy7jsZ2iZttvIrdMPx4d6uJw6HPyD4D0hTbch7PAFi30ai2G4-57Mi-1_jO_-APw9PK3gACTbPrg/s640/instantfunk013.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span style="font-size: small;">Experiment with scarves and turbans</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuoSv7I7mkhNplmJ6OwkXsp90SUZ1yb6Yk4GPmFhHcWgIBBfyeZ1FqBsv8ssYGbyt7hBtUqm6VHiNkGYIByJdu8xQGbVk0P6pc_Qza3tDKBOvcbzZm9xGE6Btkam_P2U9nQjUqGKqFY_k/s1600/hairstuff.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="464" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuoSv7I7mkhNplmJ6OwkXsp90SUZ1yb6Yk4GPmFhHcWgIBBfyeZ1FqBsv8ssYGbyt7hBtUqm6VHiNkGYIByJdu8xQGbVk0P6pc_Qza3tDKBOvcbzZm9xGE6Btkam_P2U9nQjUqGKqFY_k/s640/hairstuff.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span style="font-size: small;">Find the perfect parachute pants and a comfy grandpa sweater</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbydgS_FnwGcpTvbow3Ju1QqcXQQWEcnzRapaIHSnjh8Vomm559Pb8WYGFeM32tDWZpsO6yu2VvuKwDhLnVDF4CSm7RKDXnsYsyjp1hf7Pcox5Se4Z5iDPCLbsB1ImnDLShqe7ox4YV-0/s1600/instantfunk003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="348" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbydgS_FnwGcpTvbow3Ju1QqcXQQWEcnzRapaIHSnjh8Vomm559Pb8WYGFeM32tDWZpsO6yu2VvuKwDhLnVDF4CSm7RKDXnsYsyjp1hf7Pcox5Se4Z5iDPCLbsB1ImnDLShqe7ox4YV-0/s640/instantfunk003.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span style="font-size: small;">Invest in some serious leopard pumps</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr144bUnYVQSip2gOI27yKy0rjVz1I4NEpjxLGE27zn5T0qRNWRmpX9ONSZL9rNow9wQ-wxCcDKzGw8E2L93XYdh9wGxHMq1HS_P-jG22mq8frQQqSV1J04GLsz-6ssPF_7zAtRp80myg/s1600/oversizedclothes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="464" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr144bUnYVQSip2gOI27yKy0rjVz1I4NEpjxLGE27zn5T0qRNWRmpX9ONSZL9rNow9wQ-wxCcDKzGw8E2L93XYdh9wGxHMq1HS_P-jG22mq8frQQqSV1J04GLsz-6ssPF_7zAtRp80myg/s640/oversizedclothes.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span style="font-size: small;">Take a trip to Urban Outfitters to find some oxfords and chic over-sized shirts</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEClgJwh9LvWu2hx1dnGLLLMv9xKpLLgKKJjPd1j8NzK0TtneGm_Dzy4Ub7qH8W7Ql8xDxMRKqKqX_TJE9epj5264S8K1rnBgaUlEu8lBWO7HvO4ZbbPRLqFLasSzzOFeij6QYZZLg4dE/s1600/studdedbag.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEClgJwh9LvWu2hx1dnGLLLMv9xKpLLgKKJjPd1j8NzK0TtneGm_Dzy4Ub7qH8W7Ql8xDxMRKqKqX_TJE9epj5264S8K1rnBgaUlEu8lBWO7HvO4ZbbPRLqFLasSzzOFeij6QYZZLg4dE/s640/studdedbag.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span style="font-size: small;">Pick up a studded bag or two..</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Photo Sources, [<a href="http://www.fuckyeahcurlscurlscurls.tumblr.com/">1</a>], [<a href="http://www.keekers.tumblr.com/">2</a>], [<a href="http://2bitchezdeep.tumblr.com/">3</a>] </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Follow MTM on <b><a href="http://www.twitter.com/themoptopmaven">Twitter</a> </b>| Add MTM on<b> </b><a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/1395882/mop-top-maven"><b>Bloglovin</b>'</a> | <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mop-Top-Maven/388676945486">Like</a> MTM on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mop-Top-Maven/388676945486">Facebook </a></span></div>Mop Top Mavenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01015978415066958745noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6619950971211244776.post-60590811778941434762010-12-13T12:43:00.000-08:002010-12-13T12:45:33.061-08:00Fashion & Beauty Ethos: DIY Chic Tribal Mani<div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqHqHHgRRcN3RsPruyfnx9oieeRKh0AX3m3jmrHp_mzGrdO_E2t5PapZP5ZtDCkzwNa-4Uv7M0b98bdg1clPsyQTqZ-54VXhxXbyEg0XjL4k_bl2xIb7nisuhbU4n-PFbkE2WVGnEMGrw/s1600/Tribal+main.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqHqHHgRRcN3RsPruyfnx9oieeRKh0AX3m3jmrHp_mzGrdO_E2t5PapZP5ZtDCkzwNa-4Uv7M0b98bdg1clPsyQTqZ-54VXhxXbyEg0XjL4k_bl2xIb7nisuhbU4n-PFbkE2WVGnEMGrw/s640/Tribal+main.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Everywhere I turn, I find design speckled with tribal undertones. So I decided to do my nails in a tribal inspired mani this past weekend, and it was extremely easy! In keeping with the theme the past few weeks, I decided to use a toothpick for the line details and it was a breeze. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxRezMTNAwH0eCjCcDlaMRgojehfI0VGwlfFB4BLpE7COgkUqrJ4P5JZ_REPSHTywEALqU11qrSVGayuo-sJTCyoxVaV5n3WGmqFmwCM969AcGl3QLaITyzWv1M1DQeKGtN6W9vKAkoPc/s1600/Finished+Nail+Art+Main.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="364" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxRezMTNAwH0eCjCcDlaMRgojehfI0VGwlfFB4BLpE7COgkUqrJ4P5JZ_REPSHTywEALqU11qrSVGayuo-sJTCyoxVaV5n3WGmqFmwCM969AcGl3QLaITyzWv1M1DQeKGtN6W9vKAkoPc/s640/Finished+Nail+Art+Main.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">You Will Need:</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Two Shades of Nail Lacquer;</b> O.P.I - "The It Color" [yellow] & O.P.I "Over The Taupe" [taupe color]</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Black Nail Polish:</b> I used Rimmel in "Black Satin"</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Toothpicks for nail design </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Top Coat:</b> I tried out Seche Vite, so far so good ladies! </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Base Coat:</b> I used Essie Protein Base Coat </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTV6swVekLBeqSzdSQ7N4Wps5NCgY6FGGmA8TH_bxoogia8nhd9b30uCnZIGPRxYumTyN-HbeAL-BTqwb2cI_55nZZX4Uz0Wa4KvpU-upbxNYW0nrL4ENcUUZkEQ7ezIjBTpdxEArXL1k/s1600/BASECOAT.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTV6swVekLBeqSzdSQ7N4Wps5NCgY6FGGmA8TH_bxoogia8nhd9b30uCnZIGPRxYumTyN-HbeAL-BTqwb2cI_55nZZX4Uz0Wa4KvpU-upbxNYW0nrL4ENcUUZkEQ7ezIjBTpdxEArXL1k/s640/BASECOAT.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Apply a base coat</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifLqD7t-tH5s11Dth4AzTqYhx2TaryvooLkk7mNt1PzK8tu3NqM6HizFbRdsDloAIr1D0f3zZauUgVpoLSzoNWQEQ8FNANvTMx85yS8GvU48SOVAHxvncXDPE5z2HmkggoiL2NypQmn8o/s1600/PAINTHALFNAILS.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifLqD7t-tH5s11Dth4AzTqYhx2TaryvooLkk7mNt1PzK8tu3NqM6HizFbRdsDloAIr1D0f3zZauUgVpoLSzoNWQEQ8FNANvTMx85yS8GvU48SOVAHxvncXDPE5z2HmkggoiL2NypQmn8o/s640/PAINTHALFNAILS.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Paint a little more than half your nail bed with two coats of your main color</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWDzxIjBxK5v2LtjYXfkZlVjbBRrpmGmrEFe30bXo0VtgZuEk4QgoNket-_FiCyi7vDz1tS888c57XxVWLS50EnGFHrDKwYU3oJuDuGwPrUll8EoI0uRcyeSo57_q9iZrxqmWmiXFVgDM/s1600/Yellow+Half.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWDzxIjBxK5v2LtjYXfkZlVjbBRrpmGmrEFe30bXo0VtgZuEk4QgoNket-_FiCyi7vDz1tS888c57XxVWLS50EnGFHrDKwYU3oJuDuGwPrUll8EoI0uRcyeSo57_q9iZrxqmWmiXFVgDM/s640/Yellow+Half.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Paint the remainder of your nail with two coats of your secondary color </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimYMTBgPX2dHMeTPdqxvRQH8fqlFFI_lX3lngY8eGslR9ZbHWNJTMdn3eSfo7_6bXM3EQoGSTWbt0XXALN5inyaDqhg4FD_KfDZECLnQsrSwWbhLUcCr1wbh_NjvuYhFSPBd0ukAfgSXI/s1600/Line+Stripe.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimYMTBgPX2dHMeTPdqxvRQH8fqlFFI_lX3lngY8eGslR9ZbHWNJTMdn3eSfo7_6bXM3EQoGSTWbt0XXALN5inyaDqhg4FD_KfDZECLnQsrSwWbhLUcCr1wbh_NjvuYhFSPBd0ukAfgSXI/s640/Line+Stripe.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Draw a line down the middle of your nails with your toothpick dipped in black nail polish [be careful not to drag the toothpick as it may scrape the polish; instead lightly dot it creating a solid line]</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm1mVVKvrWrLEmD1b2St5RGpTJ-vjTV9CMEnSuY9boPqoKaV6FMIZJfDa-V3Zg-cE4Kq9kNecpLqh426K_NlsQeiMFgXlI54ME_NJtCBpNgMX4idKMIVC7XxPpM2giVDKEWrLYP1VBGgo/s1600/Draw+Lines+Better.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm1mVVKvrWrLEmD1b2St5RGpTJ-vjTV9CMEnSuY9boPqoKaV6FMIZJfDa-V3Zg-cE4Kq9kNecpLqh426K_NlsQeiMFgXlI54ME_NJtCBpNgMX4idKMIVC7XxPpM2giVDKEWrLYP1VBGgo/s640/Draw+Lines+Better.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Draw several lines near the top portion of your nail bed</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8XZNfArp-wUEvMWqLHZfT40H2-z9oslXDrYWO1zl28WJiWbyA648-PKoYKgpyFagYpu804udUBuLQAY5VJv5qZ1ziRiKqFJAyqsrUledoCd6ptY0SdFQ9uquDI_mAEUIsCL-dEeMl0_I/s1600/More+Lines+Down.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="394" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8XZNfArp-wUEvMWqLHZfT40H2-z9oslXDrYWO1zl28WJiWbyA648-PKoYKgpyFagYpu804udUBuLQAY5VJv5qZ1ziRiKqFJAyqsrUledoCd6ptY0SdFQ9uquDI_mAEUIsCL-dEeMl0_I/s640/More+Lines+Down.JPG" width="640" /></a></div> Draw more lines as illustrated in the photo above<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx2X_ZMLr-rW4PuFbOGFMCVcitj2RJxSFoztXzErsT9y5KET_-MOGD190Ux_he7NIksYIsXVadgrheXY14U9LyhgMdT6HjNTpqCD7ZKpb28QnpCeaYD2ODRcM_Dab1JKaYfBo4KY8nGL8/s1600/Dots+Down.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx2X_ZMLr-rW4PuFbOGFMCVcitj2RJxSFoztXzErsT9y5KET_-MOGD190Ux_he7NIksYIsXVadgrheXY14U9LyhgMdT6HjNTpqCD7ZKpb28QnpCeaYD2ODRcM_Dab1JKaYfBo4KY8nGL8/s640/Dots+Down.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Now draw dots down the nail bed using a new toothpick and black nail polish<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhETxrU0aF9O3XBD16JvL6X7eujLgBHJhxkvCATBXK7x9XpI6CP6yMP3o6OJiCG_x6GN3J4ZX80_DOLZv6qIGZGCDQXa8pY8Dh-1sbqwVxQt_fBHgZCYa-emD1S3rshTMS-mXXXdQNjSZ8/s1600/Top+Coat.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhETxrU0aF9O3XBD16JvL6X7eujLgBHJhxkvCATBXK7x9XpI6CP6yMP3o6OJiCG_x6GN3J4ZX80_DOLZv6qIGZGCDQXa8pY8Dh-1sbqwVxQt_fBHgZCYa-emD1S3rshTMS-mXXXdQNjSZ8/s640/Top+Coat.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Repeat the steps above on each nail, then seal with a top coat<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL7RkyR3-PqnsCPJ_vmol5gvrCEdjuA42Km9LkhrguZQi9VWgUaVCciGF0-SVPKEJgOacSNlTr4U1e83P6CU1v8VZNQvxLWT6pwFTBiZFr1CNEvSxctLpM7FHflLIMOsSiuJgHt7n_TeE/s1600/Finished+Nails01.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL7RkyR3-PqnsCPJ_vmol5gvrCEdjuA42Km9LkhrguZQi9VWgUaVCciGF0-SVPKEJgOacSNlTr4U1e83P6CU1v8VZNQvxLWT6pwFTBiZFr1CNEvSxctLpM7FHflLIMOsSiuJgHt7n_TeE/s640/Finished+Nails01.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>Enjoy your new nails! <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
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</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div><span style="font-size: small;">Follow MTM on <b><a href="http://www.twitter.com/themoptopmaven">Twitter</a> </b>| Add MTM on<b> </b><a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/1395882/mop-top-maven"><b>Bloglovin</b>'</a> | <b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mop-Top-Maven/388676945486">Like</a></b> MTM on <b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mop-Top-Maven/388676945486">Facebook </a></b></span></div>Mop Top Mavenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01015978415066958745noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6619950971211244776.post-90156988475415470302010-12-13T12:08:00.000-08:002010-12-13T13:00:12.332-08:00Product Review: My Anita Grant Haul!!<div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEzdr5ilvjwxCidARJSm3mUFDAkQo2IAGVuEddX1cBEBViePX8SJf97tx0tUDAjlLYsSbBoJXKeJEDuJl2Qe27AOc5NTDzaQ3Ui_pFXOvKKOMjIpEmDfrONvaw6mnwnJuUmHGMjAJl3VY/s1600/anitagrant11.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEzdr5ilvjwxCidARJSm3mUFDAkQo2IAGVuEddX1cBEBViePX8SJf97tx0tUDAjlLYsSbBoJXKeJEDuJl2Qe27AOc5NTDzaQ3Ui_pFXOvKKOMjIpEmDfrONvaw6mnwnJuUmHGMjAJl3VY/s640/anitagrant11.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">About a month ago, the gracious staff over at <a href="http://hairrogant.com/">Hairrogant</a> [the US supplier of Anita Grant] offered to send me some Anita Grant products. Of course I obliged. I have heard many rave reviews on Anita's goodies, and I wanted to try them out for myself! I received a package of Whipped Butter [which I haven't tried yet], Creamy Cafe Latte, Organic Sapote Castor Hair Oil & Anita Grant's infamous Rhassoul Deep Conditioning Spa Mud. </span></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxTYcmQv8dHkQGRdhNflBtENfBfyIrCO5SDgjiSF2aNv1SyiBhHHKenlLuBt6g-s2DUcTDD7svzwl6gBCPuU4TFMKhwY7Go_J5zKHeokfqYGjnArPAS93JGFn8sDUNAbj4c1D-bEK74Eo/s1600/anitagrant01.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxTYcmQv8dHkQGRdhNflBtENfBfyIrCO5SDgjiSF2aNv1SyiBhHHKenlLuBt6g-s2DUcTDD7svzwl6gBCPuU4TFMKhwY7Go_J5zKHeokfqYGjnArPAS93JGFn8sDUNAbj4c1D-bEK74Eo/s640/anitagrant01.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Rhassoul Deep Conditioning Spa Mud</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">$12.50 - 3 Cubes </span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Product Claims:</span></i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b style="font-weight: normal;">Our Rhassoul Deep Condishes contains Unrefined Black Cocoa Butter & natural Soya based Vitamin E (mixed tocopherols) which helps to guard scalp & hair from free radical damage. When hot liquid is added to our Rhassoul Deep Condishes, it swells & increases its surface area like a highly porous sponge. Attracting & trapping toxins into these open porous spaces so that when it comes time to rinse the Rhassoul Deep Condish from your hair the toxins are eliminated and you're left with detoxified fluffy soft tresses.</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><b style="font-weight: normal;">My review:</b></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO-PO-cZ8Tk5bluqkEv1YX_sfI8GD4Qt2XPkR1O8-8WggIEjlxVqYzgvxN-0bKIuYhVTAT0K0MG29VMZjFQ2fi5Rs9ms0_sC-RUjlIZbGDzq5Dy3zmfFvPOmyP6LTBjawEzh0bv_ZS4Xs/s1600/anitagrant2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO-PO-cZ8Tk5bluqkEv1YX_sfI8GD4Qt2XPkR1O8-8WggIEjlxVqYzgvxN-0bKIuYhVTAT0K0MG29VMZjFQ2fi5Rs9ms0_sC-RUjlIZbGDzq5Dy3zmfFvPOmyP6LTBjawEzh0bv_ZS4Xs/s640/anitagrant2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><b style="font-weight: normal;"> This was the consistency of my mixture</b></i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b style="font-weight: normal;"> </b><span style="font-size: small;"></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"> Because my hair is so thick, I decided to use two cubes. I poured about 2 ounces of hot water over two cubes and mixed it with a fork until it was a creamy consistency. I then applied the mixture to freshly shampooed hair and covered it with a plastic cap for about 45 minutes without heat. I then rinsed out the mixture with lukewarm water and the result was <u><i>ridiculously soft</i></u>, shiny hair. If I had to rate the softness factor on a scale from 1-10 it would definitely get a ten. No doubt about it. - I also loved that it left my hair full of body and so soft that I could actually comb through my hair using my fingers without it snagging on any knots. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Who should use it: </span></i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">If you are struggling with chronic dry strands, or you just want to treat your hair to an ultra hydrating deep conditioning treat, try this out! </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><span style="font-size: small;">Would I actually purchase this?</span></i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Most definitely! This is something that I plan on using twice a month. I love that it is natural and and that it detoxifies and hydrates my hair without leaving it feeling coated or stripped. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuEPvitd8A7MIlW4CevPDb_WhYBWf3Qz8DWhXB5BmGjSQ4vvK_2Mzq97ZrptFZtmCUmlybdQRNkgQ4CvUkYL9aQ3bxBKbR_NX8S9jF62gnrGgdHnNc8FkcYAcviTxknny3PmipTeWpkRA/s1600/anitagrant3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="570" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuEPvitd8A7MIlW4CevPDb_WhYBWf3Qz8DWhXB5BmGjSQ4vvK_2Mzq97ZrptFZtmCUmlybdQRNkgQ4CvUkYL9aQ3bxBKbR_NX8S9jF62gnrGgdHnNc8FkcYAcviTxknny3PmipTeWpkRA/s640/anitagrant3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">My hair with the treatment</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2hwdjyDGkZZQs0TTM-3mm-X-lh_EPErYeuWE9piF1UkhVijxR88cEjJjw_eZKSoDRQ4i3bbHeAtzO6hWybUNtSD1CmG1yMlW4zlJDIIqcb-LnRqoDG1XjFkPH9IwGDMqqF0fkY8XvA1w/s1600/anitagrant6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2hwdjyDGkZZQs0TTM-3mm-X-lh_EPErYeuWE9piF1UkhVijxR88cEjJjw_eZKSoDRQ4i3bbHeAtzO6hWybUNtSD1CmG1yMlW4zlJDIIqcb-LnRqoDG1XjFkPH9IwGDMqqF0fkY8XvA1w/s640/anitagrant6.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">This was how shiny my hair was after rinsing out the conditioning cubes! </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">-------------------------------<b><br />
</b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Organic Sapote Castor Hair Oil </span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>$27.00 - 3.38ounce</b><i>s</i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Product Claims: </i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;">All of Anita Grant's Castor Hair Oils are rich in texture but light enough to be used every day to seal in moisture, protect & restore vitality to your curls. - Product also helps eliminate issues with dermatitis, helps repair damaged and over-processed hair<span style="font-size: small;">, and also promotes hair growth. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>My review:</i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">I used this oil on wet hair to seal in the moisture after applying my leave-in conditioner. I only used about a dime size portion on each section of hair [my hair was sectioned in four big braids; two in the front, and two in the back] and I blow-dried my hair on warm until it was slightly damp; braiding each section as I was done with it. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheUEqN8J-9prlzKtYwyxeT4Zcxj1T08-6WX3x3SI92xgRjYLPYAVJgtaSOEhX2IFqolxbzm169gy1r9tSV6e8PNmtY9vdtuaQx4s4GBoo7JyvrTFcccyimuRKk8eyhrd7VyH5mHrP5m_M/s1600/anitagrant7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheUEqN8J-9prlzKtYwyxeT4Zcxj1T08-6WX3x3SI92xgRjYLPYAVJgtaSOEhX2IFqolxbzm169gy1r9tSV6e8PNmtY9vdtuaQx4s4GBoo7JyvrTFcccyimuRKk8eyhrd7VyH5mHrP5m_M/s640/anitagrant7.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">My hair after blow-drying and removing braids. Still very shiny, soft and bouncy!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">The Sapote Castor Hair Oil made my hair easier to manage whilst blow-drying and also kept my strands very soft and full of body. - I love that this product is light enough to be used for heat styling and hydrating enough to actually deliver moisture to highly textured hair like mine. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Who should use it?</i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">If you are looking for an oil to seal in the moisture, aid in heat styling, or looking for a product to use as a hot oil treatment, this is definitely for you. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Would I actually buy this product?</i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Yes. I definitely plan on purchasing this product when my bottle runs out. I love the ingredients, and I love how my hair felt after using this product. - I must admit I was a little leery of this product because I am not really a fan of Castor Oil, but this is much lighter and penetrates my hair much better than Castor Oil. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>---------------------</i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-size: small;">Creamy Cafe Latte</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><b>$13 - 3.5 ounces</b></i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Product Claims: </i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;">Pure Brazilian Coffee Oil stimulates the follicles while the wholesome goodness of Organic Virgin Coconut oil, nourishes your skin and naturally curly hair. Decadent Organic, Unrefined Fair Trade Black Cocoa Butter from Ghana conditions from top to toe, and the vitamin enriched - velvety suppleness of Australian Macadamia Nut Oil lovingly caresses you everywhere. All engulfed in an abundance of delicious natural & organic skin and curly hair care loving ingredients...mmm-mmm-goodness!<span style="font-size: small;"><i> </i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Product Review:</i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">I think I have found the Holy Grail of butters. Some of you that read my blog may know that I am not really a fan of hair butters. It seems as though they always sit on my hair, and coat the strands rather than soften and nourish them. - </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">So fast forward to the review: After each section of my hair dried thoroughly, I decided to cornrow my hair for a light, fluffy braid out. I took down my braids and used the Creamy Cafe Latte on each section as I braided it. Applying the Cafe Latte made cornrowing a breeze [something I absolutely hate doing on my natural hair], and gave my hair tons of sheen and softness. </span> - I think for me this is the Mecca of hair butters because it definitely made a difference in how easy it was to work with, and how soft and bouncy it left my hair. The sheen was also a definite plus. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYqHvs_sqQ-CkRkPvyV4f7x0h0Vpb79bUqd24Qosa6rkMYUpYQOVcwZsgKljAMz1WCMR3yl5zj8nvoQunYQJeKWsSDniS31p28tUo4el4x9QNy-RNaD5mE9IHYlvsJXL7gIoVRVpAIFa8/s1600/anitagrant8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYqHvs_sqQ-CkRkPvyV4f7x0h0Vpb79bUqd24Qosa6rkMYUpYQOVcwZsgKljAMz1WCMR3yl5zj8nvoQunYQJeKWsSDniS31p28tUo4el4x9QNy-RNaD5mE9IHYlvsJXL7gIoVRVpAIFa8/s640/anitagrant8.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>I am feeling very "Cleo" from Set It Off in this pic. - I cornrowed my hair using Creamy Cafe Latte, it made my hair soft and manageable, and very shiny!</i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">I don't know how it does for curl definition, as I used this on a dry braid out in which I only left the braids in for a few hours. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYq8oxVGgx-p-fR10cvVjjempeL_ZZCRE0QGCyhw40sMN7n2Po855qeQCxHmWMYqEtMFkw6zQa6geRlgBBljRNb4TsptkOCXJlMYdL8GK7u5XgQcCr-vTEbNHBCxhGuMFJo0iufHQoOgA/s1600/anitagrant10.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="540" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYq8oxVGgx-p-fR10cvVjjempeL_ZZCRE0QGCyhw40sMN7n2Po855qeQCxHmWMYqEtMFkw6zQa6geRlgBBljRNb4TsptkOCXJlMYdL8GK7u5XgQcCr-vTEbNHBCxhGuMFJo0iufHQoOgA/s640/anitagrant10.JPG" width="640" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Would I actually purchase this product?</i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Most definitely! I plan on purchasing a few more jars in the near future for myself and for friends. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><br />
</i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Overall I was very impressed with the performance and quality of Anita Grants products. Most of the ingredients are natural and perform well on highly textured hair! </i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>---------</i></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">I did not purchase this product. This product was sent to me for review by Hairrogant courtesy of Anita Grant. In order to maintain the integrity of MTM, all samples sent by PR are for <u><i>consideration only</i></u>. This allows me to share with you products that work well for me and are worth spreading the word about. If you would like to read my entire policy regarding product reviews, please read the Editorial Policy by clicking {<a href="http://moptopmaven.blogspot.com/p/editorial-policy.html">here</a>}. <b><br />
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</span></div><span style="font-size: small;">Follow MTM on <b><a href="http://www.twitter.com/themoptopmaven">Twitter</a> </b>| Add MTM on<b> </b><a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/1395882/mop-top-maven"><b>Bloglovin</b>'</a> | <b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mop-Top-Maven/388676945486">Like</a></b> MTM on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mop-Top-Maven/388676945486"><b>Facebook </b> </a></span></div>Mop Top Mavenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01015978415066958745noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6619950971211244776.post-78728875296441609012010-12-09T11:04:00.000-08:002010-12-09T11:13:56.891-08:00Products + Techniques That Help Prevent Shrinkage<div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifkZN65Bq3mIObpqYPZLP4gICOJJ3JmmSR6qH5IoyYr9MqInVK5eN2xkAX42vweufjUOGrforr9cPs36wzGCrXsa9jipNm2O0ZYaCz8JSjPn37MF4es8UXmUfWy_J4Cu-ya_wXSg0HKUQ/s1600/newposthair.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="448" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifkZN65Bq3mIObpqYPZLP4gICOJJ3JmmSR6qH5IoyYr9MqInVK5eN2xkAX42vweufjUOGrforr9cPs36wzGCrXsa9jipNm2O0ZYaCz8JSjPn37MF4es8UXmUfWy_J4Cu-ya_wXSg0HKUQ/s640/newposthair.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> [<a href="http://www.tumblr.com/">source</a>]</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Depending on how tightly wound your coils are, your hair could shrink up between 50-80% of it's actual length when wearing it in natural styles. Check out these pictures to see how different my hair looks with different products & techniques!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk2tq5OBzFksjJm_jgqQ8QANwnNLnQKsnLIFOgB9L3KUF8Ve6A_JmRl5tBJaesuie6aJehkOcoSrqdVw9_vo_rjhNDB5r8U_g749Gc9zEuCCWdAF-b_RTMDHL3MM8Caj-c9q1E4z-AuPU/s1600/NY20.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk2tq5OBzFksjJm_jgqQ8QANwnNLnQKsnLIFOgB9L3KUF8Ve6A_JmRl5tBJaesuie6aJehkOcoSrqdVw9_vo_rjhNDB5r8U_g749Gc9zEuCCWdAF-b_RTMDHL3MM8Caj-c9q1E4z-AuPU/s640/NY20.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Twist out done on slightly damp hair yields more of a longer, fuller twist out</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXDe22asKO5vh5LkLUcHIrhf20iAanQQy8pOGUgipCnKWriQeq_caSWiS0eJRd4gICBG8v8t6Pu00ZE_dU5GmhBlH3Dttbzootdi22W5kOCqOqT4HCt5agzxKi-2IZrl-p5Pdw6hzGbzw/s1600/RudyH.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="490" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXDe22asKO5vh5LkLUcHIrhf20iAanQQy8pOGUgipCnKWriQeq_caSWiS0eJRd4gICBG8v8t6Pu00ZE_dU5GmhBlH3Dttbzootdi22W5kOCqOqT4HCt5agzxKi-2IZrl-p5Pdw6hzGbzw/s640/RudyH.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Twist out on fully dry hair gave me more of a somewhat silky, wavier look</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2zQtdP9ateqjMpBwIpJSnL7vy2GoKyyPJEQzAtDzL8gkP6nDeHtZoetY_0nZDnfyILX0mi0lFbJT3EOs3SOXZM9gnLTPqpuAc6OQlj5z5LVWwVoD8VbsCLiQXTH7g0MVgjFw_nDJsUOA/s1600/GrecianSide.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2zQtdP9ateqjMpBwIpJSnL7vy2GoKyyPJEQzAtDzL8gkP6nDeHtZoetY_0nZDnfyILX0mi0lFbJT3EOs3SOXZM9gnLTPqpuAc6OQlj5z5LVWwVoD8VbsCLiQXTH7g0MVgjFw_nDJsUOA/s640/GrecianSide.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Regular twist out using Miss Jessie's Curly Pudding + Jane Carter Hold Spray </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNCz7Dsu_WSd_9ZW-ciN_1tISxMvzCled5bM_lDJoxYxRVdcrv3ee3kzxzjjXa9nKroGo5fhn1TuOKxrJS11O18hPdPuwWhyC93Yz201oQvz1KBWZA7ApGc7lN2jCo55mO58ZG3LD6w0M/s1600/TWO.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNCz7Dsu_WSd_9ZW-ciN_1tISxMvzCled5bM_lDJoxYxRVdcrv3ee3kzxzjjXa9nKroGo5fhn1TuOKxrJS11O18hPdPuwWhyC93Yz201oQvz1KBWZA7ApGc7lN2jCo55mO58ZG3LD6w0M/s640/TWO.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Twist out using Shea Moisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1997dXWfGHAqWrqWxDFUHRCuh759KIQskzXvBlvWorR2gYJeXyT1vXdIFFpcDcuBgGVXCQNiVsTx9LqX51_q3LkkpaGg7enl94WecsAPmjmSG9NOhSjtTEL_g1zxfb41UiBlSlSOVXjM/s1600/nylonnik.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1997dXWfGHAqWrqWxDFUHRCuh759KIQskzXvBlvWorR2gYJeXyT1vXdIFFpcDcuBgGVXCQNiVsTx9LqX51_q3LkkpaGg7enl94WecsAPmjmSG9NOhSjtTEL_g1zxfb41UiBlSlSOVXjM/s640/nylonnik.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> Twist out using Eco Styler Gel </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As you can see, you can achieve various degrees of length based on your techniques and product selection. Here are my recommendations for keeping as much length as possible! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><u><b><br />
</b></u></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><u><b>Techniques: </b></u></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Try one or a combination of these techniques to help prevent shrinkage! <u><b></b></u></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><u><b><br />
</b></u></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Shampoo hair in braids:</b> Not only does this help prevent tangles, and make styling a breeze, it also helps prevent shrinkage because your coils are kept in an elongated state while cleansing. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><br />
</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>For thicker twists, clip roots with metal duckbill clips: </b>Thicker twists tend to give more fullness, but you run the risk of extreme shrinkage because there isn't enough tension on your roots to keep them from shrinking. For those days you are craving big hair, secure the roots of your twists with metal duckbill clips to keep the roots from shrinking. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><br />
</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>For thinner twists, clip ends with metal duckbill clips: </b>Thinner twists may yield more definition overall, but they can also cause shrinkage as well. Secure the ends of each twist with a metal clip or roller to help elongate the twist as it dries. The result should be hair that is longer with more definition. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><br />
</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Braid hair into four cornrows and allow to air-dry until slightly damp:</b> If you have extremely springy, coily, hair; it may be necessary to up the ante and air-dry your hair before styling. For best results, cornrow the hair because it applies the necessary amount of tension that ensures your retains as much length as possible as it dries. {be careful not to apply too much tension on your scalp} - Once the hair is slightly damp, take down the cornrows, and twist or braid the hair as usual. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Dry hair in large bantu knots:</b> Drying hair in large bantu knots is perfect for those that are challenged in the cornrowing department, as all it requires is a bit of twisting. Drying hair in bantu knots yields the same benefits of cornrowing, only it leaves your hair curly instead of crinkly. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><br />
</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Twist/Braid hair, then sit under a hooded dryer for 40-60 minutes:</b> You can always twist or braid hair per your usual styling routine, place metal duckbill clips on the ends of each twist and sit under the dryer. The metal clips will help keep your hair elongated while your hair dries. Using heat also helps your hair dry before it has a chance to shrink completely. - For the health of your ends, please use end papers in between your clips and your hair if you decide to use this method as the metal tends to get warm. - End papers and metal clips can be found in most beauty supply stores near the color isle. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><br />
</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>If you always experience an enormous amount of shrinkage, opt for braid outs instead of twist outs:</b> Braid outs yields more length because of the amount of tension applied on your hair as it is braided. Because of this tension, your hair does not shrink much as it dries. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><u><b><br />
</b></u></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><u><b>Product Recommendations For Wet Twisting/Braiding: </b></u></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">While there are many products out there that do a wonderful job at moisturizing hair, providing great hold and definition, I have found these the best at curl elongation. <u><b></b></u></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><u><b><br />
</b></u></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Aloe Vera Gel:</b> Add a few heaping dollops of Aloe Vera to your favorite product to increase its curl elongating benefits. Not only does adding Aloe Gel stretch the amount of product, but it adds moisturizing benefits as well. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><br />
</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Eco Styler Gel:</b> This has easily been one of my favorite products of the year because of it's versatility [I can use it for twist outs, wash and go's and sleek buns], and because of how well it elongates my curls. I use this primarily for twist outs, and it gives me definition and more length versus any other curl cream I have tried to date. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><br />
</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Miss Jessie's Curly Pudding: </b>This is one of the first curl creams I have tried, and one I always go back to when I'm in a pinch and need something quick and effective. Curly Pudding gives me great curl definition [when used as a creme to twist hair], and also helps out a bit in the elongation department. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><u><b><br />
</b></u></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><u><b>Product Recommendations For Dry Twisting/Braiding: </b></u></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Karen's Body Beautiful Sweet Ambrosia</b> {formally known as hair milk}: I used this in the first picture on damp hair and it was amazing. It hydrated my hair without causing it to revert, and it provided some hold and protection against the chilly NY weather I was in. I have been experimenting with many products to use for "dry-damp twist outs" but this is definitely the winner. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><br />
</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Herbal Essence Long Term Relationship Leave-In:</b> Another one of my favorites, this moisturizes my hair without causing it to revert, and makes a nice product to twist dry/damp hair with. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><br />
</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>What do you do to beat shrinkage?</b></div><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Follow MTM on <b><a href="http://www.twitter.com/themoptopmaven">Twitter</a> </b>| Add MTM on<b> </b><a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/1395882/mop-top-maven"><b>Bloglovin</b>'</a> | <b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mop-Top-Maven/388676945486">Like</a></b> MTM on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mop-Top-Maven/388676945486"><b>Facebook </b> </a></span></div>Mop Top Mavenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01015978415066958745noreply@blogger.com27tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6619950971211244776.post-5042725926980188412010-12-08T13:32:00.000-08:002010-12-08T14:12:31.554-08:00Don't Walk In Front Of Me, I Might Not Follow. Don't Walk Behind Me, I Might Not Lead. Walk Beside Me And Be My Friend.<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQhxagOrD1_ZGdBT9ttseg32VbB67iQyb7xjQDpu3xp2Jxfw5mv4M6DZqFVnir7HBGFUtELsEtdryvMQ4ifqbIWbzE03t4KDJbFgVCHKScp-l4dQBad6V_n3rceLsUYRhowvUBLUtguCQ/s1600/newnew.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQhxagOrD1_ZGdBT9ttseg32VbB67iQyb7xjQDpu3xp2Jxfw5mv4M6DZqFVnir7HBGFUtELsEtdryvMQ4ifqbIWbzE03t4KDJbFgVCHKScp-l4dQBad6V_n3rceLsUYRhowvUBLUtguCQ/s1600/newnew.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<blockquote><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Reader Question: </b>"I could really relate to your post about choosing your friends and cleaning house. I attempted to do that earlier this year but my friend confronted me and said I changed. How do I deal with people that think I am better than them, or say I have changed just because I want more for myself" </span></blockquote></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Truth is, if they are still stuck in a motionless state of being, it isn't in <i>their</i> best interest for you to become a better person. You're playing small benefits the attention-craved friend that always has to have the limelight, your depression benefits the insecure friend that never wants to see another happy. - So what happens next? You have to realize that everyone has their run in with reality when they're ready. Ideally, it would be nice for friends to grow and better themselves at the same time, but that isn't always the way it happens. Don't let the emotional blackmail keep you in a situation that isn't healthy or beneficial towards the end goal of total mind, body and emotional wellness. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">For whatever reason we sometimes outgrow friends we thought were there for life. Maybe they were there to show us a reflection of ourselves, maybe they helped us through some bad times. However as we grow, mature, learn, evolve and seek a deeper understanding of ourselves; our needs and our value systems tend to change. You shouldn't feel bad for that. One of the hardest things to do is to detach emotionally, but in order for us to move on without beating ourselves up in the process; it is necessary. - There were many times I kept my "friendships" going because I didn't want to abandon them, but I began to lose myself in the co-dependent relationship. You don't have to wait until they commit a cardinal sin to give you a legitimate reason to walk away; you know you can no longer stay when you begin to resent the friendship, or it leaves you feeling drained. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">One thing I wished I would have known a lot earlier in life is that it is ok to move on. We all have a right to act in accordance to our inner guidance system [<i>which in essence never steers us wrong</i>], and we shouldn't allow outside opinions and chatter divert us away from what our core knows is right. Untangle yourself from feelings of guilt, detach from your need to be understood by these old acquaintances and empower yourself with the permission to walk away. </span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div><span style="font-size: small;">Follow MTM on <b><a href="http://www.twitter.com/themoptopmaven">Twitter</a> </b>| Add MTM on<b> </b><a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/1395882/mop-top-maven"><b>Bloglovin</b>'</a> | <b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mop-Top-Maven/388676945486">Like</a></b> MTM on <b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mop-Top-Maven/388676945486">Facebook </a></b></span></div>Mop Top Mavenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01015978415066958745noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6619950971211244776.post-50223115529918927472010-12-08T11:56:00.000-08:002010-12-08T11:56:49.983-08:00Reader Question: Will My Hair Still Grow If I Wear It Pressed Instead of Natural?<div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjSxUrFl_uMkRO466LPhIrd0LmYvxHabuePuwmD1ChPb9alnwHqQgjHsrEl2NlkiuyBRtZmo17ssvs1DvfIfB3pd-JM2lwFfofky4Aol8N7XMfpyQyOW_G5hGd6Vp2OVcAMAojO2QX3DM/s1600/canblackgirlsgrowlonghair.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjSxUrFl_uMkRO466LPhIrd0LmYvxHabuePuwmD1ChPb9alnwHqQgjHsrEl2NlkiuyBRtZmo17ssvs1DvfIfB3pd-JM2lwFfofky4Aol8N7XMfpyQyOW_G5hGd6Vp2OVcAMAojO2QX3DM/s1600/canblackgirlsgrowlonghair.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">[<a href="http://www.tumblr.com/">source</a>]</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">In the most literal sense, your hair will grow regardless of what style you wear it in. The key to achieving your length goals lie in how well you are able to retain the hair that grows. Some of the major factors that prohibit length retention when wearing your hair straight are:</span></div><blockquote><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">- Excess heat from pressing combs, blow dryers, and curling irons</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">- Breakage from detangling</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">- Breakage/split ends from combing/brushing while blow-drying</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">- Dryness from styling products that contain alcohol [setting lotions, hair spray] </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">- Breakage from wrapping hair the same way daily</span></div></blockquote><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">Hair grows at about an average of 1/2 a month. With proper care, you can retain that 1/2 monthly which means you will see significant growth in as little as 6 months. To retain that 1/2 inch a month, keep the following tips in mind:</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><blockquote><span style="font-size: small;">- Try to use heat <b><i>no more</i></b> than twice monthly</span> </blockquote><blockquote>- If you are relaxed or transitioning, I recommend skipping the blow dryer. Instead wrap wet hair and sit under a hooded dryer, as it is less damaging to your hair. </blockquote><blockquote><span style="font-size: small;">- If you must use more than two heat tools [<i>for instance a pressing comb and a flat iron, or pressing comb and a curling iron</i>] in one styling session, opt to air-dry the hair instead of blow-dry. The less heat your strands have to endure, the better off they will be. </span> </blockquote><blockquote><span style="font-size: small;">- If you decide to blow dry, make sure you detangle your hair with a wide tooth comb, then go through the hair once more with a blow-drying comb. This can eliminate damage from pulling and tugging on kinks and knots when blow drying. Remember the wide tooth comb gets out larger size knots, however a smaller tooth comb [<i>passed through the hair after using a large tooth comb first</i>] will remove smaller kinks and coils that can make blow drying a pain. </span> </blockquote><blockquote><span style="font-size: small;">- Always deep condition with heat after every shampoo, this will help replenish moisture, correct issues with loss of elasticity, and nourish the hair follicles. The nutrients in your deep conditioner will also help strengthen your strands so that they are able to withstand heat without damaging structure of your hair.</span> </blockquote><blockquote><span style="font-size: small;">- Use a heat protectant at all times, as it helps to absorb heat from styling tools which protects your strands from heat damage. </span> </blockquote><blockquote><span style="font-size: small;">- Clarify then moisturize. I recommend clarifying your hair at every wash because most of the styling aids geared towards "straight" hair contain silicones. Silicones aid in easing combability, and also help act as a protective coating over hair preventing reversion and heat damage. While they offer a plethora of benefits, there are also some drawbacks as well. - We now know that silicones are wonderful at coating the hair, however that protective coating can also block out moisture molecules from penetrating the protective barrier. A buildup of products containing silicone results in hair that is unable to receive moisture and other nutrients from your favorite styling products. - Some silicones are also non-soluble in water which means you are going to need a heavy duty shampoo [usually a chelating or clarifying shampoo] geared towards removing buildup. I recommend using a clarifying shampoo to remove buildup, then following up with a moisturizing shampoo to replenish moisture and restore PH levels. </span> </blockquote><blockquote><span style="font-size: small;">- Implement protein treatments every 6-8 weeks. This is very important as heat styling has the ability to break down the keratin bonds that fortify your hair making it strong. Protein treatments help restore strength, reducing your chances of breakage, split ends and damage from regular wear and tear on the hair. </span> </blockquote><blockquote><span style="font-size: small;">- Alternate your wrapping patterns. If you have ever worn your hair "wrapped" for an extended period of time, you may <span style="font-size: small;">have noticed a small amount of breakage or thinning on one side of your hair. </span></span><span style="font-size: small;">I recommend alternating your wrapping methods, or utilizing the <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=35e4glHyuII">cross wrapping technique</a> to prevent breakage and thinning. </span><br />
</blockquote></div><span style="font-size: small;">Follow MTM on <b><a href="http://www.twitter.com/themoptopmaven">Twitter</a> </b>| Add MTM on<b> </b><a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/en/blog/1395882/mop-top-maven"><b>Bloglovin</b>'</a> | <b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mop-Top-Maven/388676945486">Like</a></b> MTM on <b><a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Mop-Top-Maven/388676945486">Facebook </a></b></span></div>Mop Top Mavenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01015978415066958745noreply@blogger.com7