Natural Hair and The Green Movement

The trend towards natural hair began originally in the ‘60s with the advent of the Afro and then died down, only to return in earnest during the late ‘70s, around the time that I entered the budding natural hair-care industry. Many of us were captivated and loving our natural selves! As in the ‘60s, the decision made by Black women to wear their hair natural did not happen in a vacuum.  This choice to go “counter-culture,” unsupported by mainstream media, is a bold and brave one that speaks to a change in consciousness.

What I’ve observed, not only in myself, but also in countless clients and others, is that “going natural” can include, changing one’s diet to a more wholesome eating experience. It can include being drawn to seeking out a spiritual path, including meditation, prayer, yoga and self-reflection and exploration.

When your consciousness opens, your awareness changes and expands.  You begin to notice realities you may have taken for granted, or of which you were unaware. Something as simple as the effects of littering, for example, will appear on your radar, maybe for the first time. You’ll take better notice of your surroundings, your interactions with others, your own mind-chatter… the list of things that will become more present to you is endless.

It’s been long said and documented that we are a microcosm of the Universe; it’s easy to see (if we’re looking) how that occurs in our consciousness, is reflected in our world. Making the move to natural hair effortlessly lends itself to the blossoming of the Green Movement.  When you respect yourself and seek your authenticity, you’ll look for it in both your immediate world and in the world at large.  You’ll recognize that everything you do has an effect not only on you, but also on the planet.  This includes what you think about your hair and what you do with it.  After you stop putting chemicals in your hair and doing unnatural things with it, you may not want to continue to eat unnatural foods.

There is a bubbling up from deep inside that can no longer bury the truth ― our hair is beautiful, just the way God made it.  It doesn’t have to be altered for its beauty to come forth.  The same is true for the home that God provided. If we disrespect the planet, we disrespect ourselves and we’ll suffer the consequences, whether or not we are aware of the action or reaction.

Therefore natural hair and the green movement go hand-in-hand.  Wearing your hair natural means you are not contributing to the rinsing of harsh chemicals into our water supply.  It means that you are in a place of love, acceptance, appreciation, and honor for your hair, your body, your mind and the planet.  We all have heard the old adage: “What goes around comes around.”  If we continue to disrespect ourselves and the planet, only fear and sadness will result.

As soon as we decide to love and respect the planet and ourselves we can look forward to more love, peace, and glory, including the crowning kind. Going natural? I highly recommend it!

This article was commissioned for Our Time Press newspaper and appeared in the June 11th 2009 edition.

The Natural Bride

This is a presentation of the Natural Bride with hair by Khamit Kinks, headpieces by Sherri Hobson of Beauloni Style, bridal gowns by Cassandra Broomfield, and photos by Mireille Liong of Going-Natural.com and make up by Shenelle Mays.  Hair executed by Awa Thiam and Fatoumata Mbaw.  It’s been some time since the dynamic trio of Khamit Kinks, Beauloni Style and Cassandra Bromfield collaborated for a bridal shoot, but it was well worth the wait.  We believe that a Natural Bride is a beautiful bride.  We know for certain that a bride doesn’t have to straighten her hair to be just as stunning as any other bride.  Instead, she can express her true self and incorporate key elements from her own culture for her special day.

Lagina is wearing a silk Charmeuse bias cut, cowl neck gown with an asymmetrical waist that is beaded with tiny beads and shells for the sensuous bride.  The very patient and accommodating Lagina sat for many hours for this soft styled, single braids.  This style is created with small single braids using textured human hair.  A bride couldn’t help but feel stunning in a rich style such as this one.  Lagina’s hair is accented with a Sterling silver tiara with blush variety of freshwater pearls with matching earrings.

Lurie is wearing a Chantilly lace top in light pink color.  Vintage pearls in varying sizes are beaded around the neckline.  This is a knee length 1/2 circle skirt in silk satin for the sweet but sassy bride.  Lurie has enough hair for three people.  But for this wedding day look we decide to reign in her bigger than life size ‘fro and gave her a Micro Flat Twist, styled into a classic wedding bun for that sweet and demur look.  Lurie hair is adorned with willow draped Preciosa tear drop Swarovski crystals set on a comb. With crystal and fresh water pearl earrings

Kemi – is wearing a China Silk Patchwork tie dyed skirt with doily lace jacket.  This is a look for the daring bride.  Kemi  has awesome flare, so we decided to compliment her personality with the Cherokee Up-Sweep Cornrows, for that not so shy bride who prefers a dramatic look.  Whoever said that cornrows aren’t sophisticated, elegant, and fabulous, obviously hasn’t seen a bride styled by Khamit Kinks.  Kemi’s hair accents are bold.  She’s wearing a Smoky gold Swarovski crystals headpiece assembled with gold feathery wiring embracing a beige mélange of rooster feathers in an asymmetrical look, with matching earrings.

Nefertite is wearing a Silk Charmeuse Patchwork slip dress with caplet in 4 silk that is dyed with gold beads and feathers for the demur but confident bride.  Nefertite was actually given this name at birth and it’s so fitting for such an elegant and genuinely sweet bride.  Nefertite is wearing free flowing Senegalese Twist, a style that will have no problem holding up to a Caribbean honeymoon.  This style isn’t altered one bit by azure blue, sea waters.  A Cowrie Shell Goddess reef, embellished with iridescent crystals, crowns Nefertite’s hair.

So if you’re getting married or if  you’re going to be part of a bridal party, consult with us so that we can help you make the perfect decision for that special day.  Click her for more images of our brides or watch the montage on YouTube

Heads Up: A Soulful Celebration of Our HAIRitage

MELBA TOLLIVER & GUESTS UNTANGLE BLACK HAIRSTORY
‘HEADS UP! A Soulful Celebration of Our HAIRitage’ Will Lift Spirits

April 29, 2009 (BROOKLYN, NEW YORK) — Melba Tolliver, the first Black person to anchor a network TV news show, will take part in a frank discussion and liberating celebration of Black Hair on Wednesday, May 20th at 6 pm at the Kumble Theater for the Performing Arts on the Long Island University campus in downtown Brooklyn. Heads Up! A Soulful Celebration of Our HAIRitage will gather women and men of all ages for an evening of healing, wholeness and appreciation through dialogue, film and performance. Admission is FREE and all hair styles and viewpoints are welcome!

Joining us will be filmmaker Kathe Sandler, author Nana Camille Yarbrough, panelists Farah Jasmine Griffin, asha bandele, Adémola Mandella, Michaela Angela Davis and Mireille Liong-A-Kong, environmentalist Majora Carter, actress Dominique Morisseau, dancer Fatima Friday and percussionist Mten Halsey. Rev. Malika Lee Whitney and actress Phyllis Y. Stickney will host. Khamit Kinks founder Anu Prestonia conducts an interview and her salon presents a mini bridal hair show.

Ms. Tolliver will read from her upcoming memoir, “Accidental Anchorwoman: Chance, Choice, Change” (See melbatolliver.com). Thirty-eight years ago, while a reporter at WABC-TV, she stopped relaxing her hair. Her new Afro was deemed unsuitable and Ms. Tolliver was told she’d have to straighten it or cover it up while on assignment for the White House wedding of President Nixon’s daughter Tricia. When she failed to comply, she was banned from the news studio set until supportive viewers demanded her reinstatement. Back then, a Black woman was criticized for visiting the White House on her own terms. Today a Black woman lives at the White House!

Heads Up! will salute natural-hair pioneers, accomplished professionals and everyday folk. Attendees are invited to bring along a “Natural Inspiration” friend or colleague and the event’s theme, “Let’s talk, laugh and be fearlessly tender-headed,” will set the tone.

The Kumble Theater is located on Flatbush Avenue between DeKalb and Willoughby. Call the theater at 718-488-1624.To RSVP call Khamit Kinks salon at 718-422-2600, contact info@headsuphairitage.com or visit www.headsuphairitage.com, where you can also reserve your beautiful Heads Up! logo button designed by Sheila Prevost. This event is presented in association with the Kumble Theater and is sponsored by Khamit Kinks salon, Nu Web Order Designs and Hostivity.

Cherokee: As an Interim Style

Since the beginning of the year I had been rocking the Tom Boy style and loving it.  But it was indeed time for it to be done over and my appointment was weeks away.  My Manager tried to convince to just deal with it.  But I just couldn’t.  You see I had a partial weave looping at the top of my head to keep the Tom Boy vertical, standing up.  And it had begun to feel like a  muskrat on my head.  In addition to that, because the hair at the nape of my neck is soft, and my new growth had grown out about half an inch, each time I touch my hair, another braid would slide out of my head.  That  is not how I like to roll, so something had to be done in the meantime.  I was really torn because I was really enjoying the Tom Boy.  It’s basically care free, with the exception of finger combing and shaping it after waking it the morning.  Plus,  it really looks like it’s  your own hair and I was receiving tons of compliments on it.  Who wouldn’t want to keep something like that going?

However, I finally decided I would try the Cherokee cornrow style in the interim.  I hadn’t had the Cherokee in about seven years; since before my Sister Locks.  And I must admit, I was concerned that perhaps I was past the age for having a style as “revealing” as the Cherokee.  But considering the response I’ve received, I guess attitude/perspective is more a factor than age.

The Cherokee does offers  a temporary face lift, as most cornrows styles do; and that was right on.  In addition to that,  it’s more care free than even the Tom Boy.  I didn’t have to finger comb it or fluff it into shape; just get up and go.   As this style gets older it has grown on me and I was  even considering getting the Cherokee a second time, especially when those 90 degree days came around.  I mean, we’ve been freezing all spring and then all of a sudden it was just about 90 degrees, three days in a row.  I was happy to have the Cherokee on those days.  It was light and airy and made my head feel cool.

But alas, my appointment for the Tom Boy is “soon come”, and I’m looking forward to that funky ‘fro style.   But just so you know, in a pinch the Cherokee is a great treat and you could get use to it real fast.  Thanks Awa, for an awesome style.

Day of Indulgence

In celebration of Mother’s Day and of mothering & nurturing ourselves, Khamit Kinks is hosting a Spa Day on Sunday May 3rd.  Many of us wear a number of hats and run ourselves ragged taking care of others.  This is an opportunity to treat yourself or that special someone to a Day of Indulgence. They deserve it and so do you.  So call us today to book your appointment to be nurtured, pampered, and beautified.  Or purchase for them a gift card at KhamitKinks.com.  As always, we look forward to serving you.

Love My Skin

Cleanse, steam, exfoliate, extract, mask and protect  $90.00 -50 min

Work the Body

Combination of massage techniques to ease stress and muscle tension-$90 -50 min

Brown Sugar Scrub

w/ back massage $65- 50 min

Lemongrass

Ginger Sea Salt Foot Exfoliation w/ reflexology $65.00 -$45 min

Mini Facial $50.00- 30 min

Min- massage $50 – 30 min

Trini Braids

Most recently Mireille Liong owner of Going Natural, called the salon and explained that she’s been wearing her own hair without extensions, but she was looking to do something different.  She wanted to give herself a break from having to handle her hair on a daily basis; it takes time and energy – the combing, twisting, setting and untwisting day in and day out.  And she also wanted to give her hair a rest from daily grooming.  Mireille, also mentioned she had an idea about a style, she wanted to just wear large plaits.

Now that’s a term you rarely hear, “plaits”.  You hear twists, braids, cornrows, Locs, weaves etc. but when I hear the word plaits, it takes me back to my childhood, to simplicity regarding our hair.  But I had the perfect style for her, our classic Khamit Kinks Trini Braids.

Our Trini braids are the modern version of plaits.  Trini Braids are modern, because extensions are added, unlike the plaits of our childhood.  But it’s also a style that in addition to being youthful, it is also simple yet elegant.  This is a style you can definitely dress up or dress down.

What are Trini braids?  The Trini style is basically a finely crafted, over-hand, braid that requires great skill and dexterity, to get it right.   The Trini braids were a spin off of our Goddess braids.  Trini Braids were created by top Stylist Shelly Toppin (from Trinidad)  when she worked at Khamit Kinks in the early 90’s.  Master Stylist Seshua Mandulo a.k.a. Sesh, did the Trini style created here on Mirielle.  Trini braids are a perfect look for spring (summer and fall) liberating and fun.  Check out Going Natural to see the before and after of Mireille and then give call us for your Trini braids today.

Tom Boy

As many of you know, back in September I cut off my Sister Locks and began a new journey of trying out as many Khamit Kinks styles as I can before I do my Sister Locks all over again. But for now, I can finally wear all the styles I use to oooh and ahhh about as they were being created right before my eyes at Khamit Kinks.  After I cut off my Sister Locks, I wore a short hair cut. That lasted only a few weeks before I was ready to move on. I then had to have the famed and now classic, Baby Curl Twist.  But because my own hair was so short, the braids quickly started sliding out. The slippage was primarily at the nape of my neck, so I didn’t panic. But after my first shampoo, it was a wrap. In other words, the Baby Curl Twist is best kept in if you have at least three inches of your own hair. A couple of months later (and my hair a few inches longer) I now sport the Tom Boy.

Can I tell you? I absolutely love this style! It’s so carefree and easy. When I get up in the morning, I shape it by finger picking it and off I go. I also love because it’s funky, edgy and so hip. Watch out world!

So what exactly is the Tom Boy. Well actually, it’s single braids created by using the Baby Curl hair (though other hair textures can be used). The Baby Curl is cut with the top a bit longer than the sides and back. And then you just rock it. The interesting part is most people think it’s my own hair. This includes those who are meeting me for the first time even those who know my hair couldn’t have grown that fast. I have to actually pull my hair back and show them that it’s braided.  It’s the best! So call us for you Tom Boy today!!! 718.422.2600.

Dead Locks

A blogger recently mentioned having Locs for fifteen years and was considering cutting them, to do something else, even if that something else was just to cut them off and start Locking all over again.   I applaud and highly recommend this idea.   I believe it’s a very brave move.

Over the years I have noticed a change that occurs with Locs that are over 10 years old.  This is not the case with every single person, but often “old” Locs begin to have a very dead, flat look.  When I say “flat”, I am referring to the energy of the Locs, more so than the shape.

When we first begin locking it becomes clear that it’s a creative process.  The hair seems to have an abundance of wiry energy.  The process is fun, exciting, and becomes an ever-changing journey (for the first few years).  Some times the texture is springy, often times non-conforming with an exuberant type of energy.   As time passes, your Locs finally seem to get with the program and settle down, so to speak.  Then they finally start getting some length.  The next thing you know, you can finally wear your Locs in a ponytail or bun and all kinds of fabulous pin up styles, crimps and you name it.

Fast forward and the next thing you know a decade or more has passed and your locks are no longer lively.  They no longer have that buoyant energy they once had.  They are just long and heavy with a flat, drab vibe.  This is what I am referring to when I say “Dead Locks”.   Now this is not the case for everyone, but most “old” Locs begin have that dead look.

I know that it’s very natural to become very attached to your Locs, their length; it becomes for some, their identity.  So I’m not suggesting that’s it the right thing to just cut it all off.   But you might consider cutting them [considerably shorter]; all the way up to the shoulders, for instance.

This shorter hair is more alive.  It’s not as old as the hair that’s grown down to your waist.   It still has some life and movement in the molecules.  So if you’re one of those whose Locs are ten, twelve, fifteen, twenty years old, and you’re not ready to cut them all off, consider shortening them.  Your scalp will thank you and you have more lively energy surrounding your Locs.

Last spring Essence Magazine featured a young sister would took the plunge and cut her Locs into a bob style.  This feature resulted in our phones ringing off the hook.  And many had the courage to follow in her footsteps.  Spring is on the way, it’s time to start considering your “coming out” look.  We can help.  Fill our our Consultation Questionnaire and let’s go from there.

Chris Rock and Good Hair

A few months ago I decided to broach the subject of “Good Hair” here on this blog, as I sincerely believed that that concept was still very much a part of the psyche of African Americans and a measure of how we view and judge ourselves and our beauty. I must admit that initially, I was a bit skeptical about speaking publicly about good hair (it’s a very touchy subject), and sought the advice of friends who encouraged me to go for it.

Most recently there’s been a buzz about an upcoming film produced by comedian Chris Rock entitled “Good Hair”.   The film debuted at the Sundance Film Festival, to rave reviews.  I am happy for Chris.  But considering Chris grew up in Bedford Stuyvesant Brooklyn, I find it rather curious that Chris seems surprised about the “good hair” syndrome in our communities??? He states that his daughter came in crying to him one day, wanting to know why she didn’t have “good hair”; and this painful experience lead to the making of this film. Chris may actually be ignorant to the fact since he became rich and famous, like most other African American male celebrities, he probably has never since looked at any woman of color who didn’t have “good hair”.  I honestly believe  it may be an unconscious behavior, but I don’t think so.  You’re rich, you’re famous, it only stands to reason, you should have a woman with “good hair”!  I sincerely believe that’s the unfortunate mind-set.

That aside, I am very excited about the prospect of viewing this new film. I believe that it will be educational, insightful, and hopefully many will have the opportunity to reflect on what the ramifications of how the “good hair” syndrome has affected us. I’m hoping that it will lead to the healing of our distorted view of ourselves so that we can fully and finally embrace our natural selves.

Real Solutions for Thinning Hair

Lately I’ve noticed a significant increase in the number of clients who are experiencing the thinning of their hair. Typically this hair thinning occurs in the crown of the head. This hair loss can be caused by any number of reasons- illness, medication, trauma, stress, hormone fluctuations, heredity and the list goes on.

As women approach menopause there are a number of changes that occur and loss of hair can be one of them. Not only does the hair thin out, but the texture can also change. We’ve also had a number of clients who [Thank God] have bounced back from chemotherapy. Initially, the newly growing hair is often times different in texture and color than before their treatments. One of our clients who is a cancer survivor has experienced going bald to having her hair grown in totally white and now it’s a beautiful combination consisting of 40% salt and 60% pepper.

There are a number of ways to address the thinning hair issue. Some women are fine with the thinning in terms of not using anything cover it up. Instead, they opt for Sister Locks and the longer they have the Sister Locks the fuller their hair becomes. This is because with any locking process you don’t have the daily shedding of hair. Instead, the hair coils around it self, making the hair eventually stronger, thicker and longer. Unlike Sister Locks, the weight of regular locs, can exacerbate the issue of thinning hair. Sister Locks seem to be a winning solution for many.

For those who aren’t interested in locking there’s traditional weaving and we also have other weaving solutions such as looping and netting. Looping is another great option whether your hair is thinning or not. Instead of the hair being sewn onto tracks, the hair is looped around a grid of braids on the scalp. It gives a full look that undetectable, generous and glorious. It’s also a way to having hair that stands up like in the case of the look above. Often times with braids the style will stands up in the beginning but then it flops when the new growth comes in. With looping it stay standing, giving that funky, hip look, like the model is wearing in the above photo.  Her hair is out on the sides, the back, the hairline and looped in the crown center.

If the hair is really thin and weak another solution is called netting. An actual net is sewn onto the scalp attached by the surrounding hair and the netting is used as tracking. Of course we also can recommend a host of hair and scalp treatment along with daily scalp massage to stimulate circulation and hair growth.

So a few things to consider: If your hair is thinning don’t add anything to your hair that’s going to cause additional stress to the existing hair. Do consider Sister Locks, traditional weaving, looping or netting for full coverage. Last but certainly not least, consider hair and scalp treatments that will invigorate both hair and scalp. And what ever you do, don’t hide under a hat or wig. It’s not necessary when there are so many great options.

Stinky Hair

I don’t mean to sound mean, but it’s time to address this problem, and there’s really no nice way to put it.   Some people have Stinky Hair.  And unfortunately, it’s of their own making.

When you have stinky hair, each time you lean it to hug or kiss someone, they get a whiff of this awful scent.  It’s a distinctive stench that requires special arrangements (a specific appointment) to address this problem.

The main culprits of stinky hair tend to be those with Locs that don’t have them groomed often enough and those who keep their weaves in for way too long.  Despite our advice, these particular clients will not come in any sooner to have their hair done.    There are some who will keep their weaves in for up to six months!  The toxic fumes drifting off the hair at this stage is staggering.

Once we remove the weave, there’s a pile of dirt in the client’s hair that is so thick, that it looks like mud, caked into their hair. The primary problem is that the client hasn’t booked enough time to deal with this issue, therefore with the time that we have to address the problem, the most we’ve been able to do is mask it.

Each time the hair is left dirty for this length of time, the more difficult it becomes to get this smell out.  It’s as though the hair is saturated to the core with this smell.  Often times the wearer can’t smell their hair because they’ve become accustomed to it.   We strongly recommend that before you have your hair styled again, that you make an appointment to have your hair examined and properly attended to with a treatment that will effectively cleanse and renew your hair.  Call us for more details 718.422.2600.

Your own hair – A Mystery

A disturbing yet recurring spiel has been coming my way lately.  It’s the same story but from different people, their version of what I consider a sad saga.   I’ve been hearing from intelligent, resourceful and otherwise savvy sisters that they couldn’t handle their hair in its natural state, so they went back to the relaxer!   I admit, I may be biased as far as this topic is concerned, but this tale confounds me; it made my brow wrinkle and my brain do a flip.  This is especially true when they recount the damage of their chemical choices.  In other words, these fierce sisters who make it through years of higher education, navigate through any number of mind numbing experiences, are unable to figure out how to comb, manage, and get creative with their own hair?  There’s definitely something wrong with this story.

I admit that when you go into a “regular salon”, if you come in with a head full of natural hair or even just a couple of inches of new growth, often the only option is to to have a chemical process.  There’s typically no attempt to work with your natural hair.  Of course there’s always the option of putting it all in the hands of a professional, natural hair care provider, but obviously that wasn’t what they wanted to do.  These sisters wanted to work with their own hair themselves, but just didn’t know how.

How did we get here?  How is it that we can figure out everything else, but our hair in its natural state is a mystery to us?   We are well aware of our history in this country, how most of our ancestors arrived here with no tools or “products” herbs, potions, etc to groom their hair.  And let’s face it, hair had to be the last thing on the agenda when your life and the survival of you and yours was a grave, ever present issue.

Fast forward to present day, we have all that it takes to learn how to manage our own hair, so the excuse of I didn’t know what to do so I went back to a relaxer is just lame.   Come on people!  I mean sisters!   What has kept you from learning how to manage your own beautiful, kinky, curly, fluffy, spongy, electrically beautiful hair?   Please Do Tell?

For some other sites that offer tips on how to manage and care for your natural hair check out Natural Hair Care Guide and Going Natural

More Hair!

Inaugural Hair

In all the decades that I’ve voted, never have I known personally anyone that attended a presidential inauguration. That was until now. Now it seems everyone I know is attempting to attend this historic inauguration or celebrate in some way that day! I mean, can you blame them? Not really.

There will be all kinds of celebrations, parties, balls, formal dinners and upscale affairs that folk will be attending. How will they wear their hair? I mean, one just can’t show up looking ordinary, for goodness sake! You’ve got to pull out all the stops! Who knows, yours might just be the photo that ends up in some popular publication or online for millions to see ― so you’d want to look your fabulous best! Some of us will be celebrating locally in our own towns. That’s no reason not to kick it up a notch.

How will you add that sparkle to your look?  We have some suggestions for what we’re calling “Inaugural Hair.” First, have your hair freshly done. Don’t go there with three inches of new growth. If you’ve had your hair done recently, you may consider a touch-up and/or a pin-up style. Another nice touch would be to add just-right ornaments, such as studded hair pins or a hint of glitter that will glimmer when you move. How will you be wearing your hair? Let us know.

Going Natural

This past weekend Khamit Kinks was part of a Natural Hair Show put together by Mireille Liong, called Going Natural.  This show featured styles without the use of extensions.  It was a very creative and inspiring experience.  It took me back to the days when I first began braiding hair professionally and there were no options to have extensions. That was in the late ’70’s.  We’ve come a long way Baby!

On a personal tip, I’ve been wearing my hair natural for 41 years.  Yes, at the tender age of ten, I had to have all my hair cut off because of the damage a perm did to both my hair and scalp.  I never looked back.  I believe that haunting experience set me on the path I’m on today…

There seems to be new converts to the natural hair experience everyday and I am very happy about that. Both young and mature sisters are taking the plunge for all kinds of reasons.  The best reason is when it just comes from the soul and you can no longer resist the pull to return to what’s real and true; in other words returning to your roots instead of trying to beat them down with chemicals.

But tell me what’s your story?  What lead you down this path and what has it meant to you mentally and spiritually? Let us hear from you.

BTW, these fabulous clothing designs were leant to us by Wedding Designer Cassandra Bromfiield are they are for sale at very discounted prices.  Check her out.

Cutting it all off and what that means…

A few weeks ago, I had my beautiful Sister Locks cut off; all four hundred and fifty (450) of them.  I had had them for five years, which for me, was a record for wearing one style!  I have always loved having different looks and I was in the perfect business to exercise that option.   Back in March I had a real urge to cut my hair off.  But I wasn’t mentally prepared to make the leap at that time.  So instead I cut about four inches off my Sister Locks and wore them in a precision Bob style with blond tips.  It was fun, hip, and I received a lot of compliments.

Fast forward to the fall and this itch to cut my hair off was driving me nutty.  I was constantly thinking about it and planning how long it would take before I would have enough new growth so that when I did cut my Sister Locks off, I could transition right into another stylish Khamit Kinks “do“.  But alas, I couldn’t wait that long.  That would have meant waiting until January. I’m an Aries, waiting is pure torture for some of us Aries.

I waited until the new moon in September which fell on a cloudy Monday.  Late that afternoon, Aingeel met me at the salon and that was it.  She cut them all off!  Afterwards I kept looking at myself in the mirror thinking, you’re kind of crazy!  What did you do that for!  But initially, I did like it and the new cut was well received. There was a kind of freedom I felt from having it all chopped off.  I received many compliments and encouragement from friends, family and clients.  At the time it was still fairly warm outside.  However, being that it was September, it didn’t take long for the weather to switch up.  One day soon thereafter the mercury dropped and a breeze hit my head feeling somewhat like a slap in the face.

As the temperatures continued to drop, I began wearing hats (caught a cold anyway).  My head wasn’t  used to the exposure.  But now (four weeks later) my hair is at a stage that when I put on a hat, I have to keep it on or run into the bathroom and fix it up before letting others see it.  Hey, this is way too much maintenance for me.  I’m use to carefree hair; you know, wash and wear.  In order to achieve wash & wear  with this style, meant that I would have to cut my hair down really close to the scalp to achieve the true freedom of a short cut; and in this weather, that was not about to happen.  Go shorter as we head into winter, no way!

So now I have an appointment (this week) to get the famed Baby Curl Twist.  I’m excited and hoping they’ll stay in considering how short my hair is.  I guess I’m really surprised at my own response.  Obviously my hair is in that in-between stage where it’s not short enough to be carefree and not quite long enough to do anything much with it.  I’m certain I would feel differently about this if it was above 75 degrees outside and only going to get hotter.  I would definitely consider cutting my hair shorter under those conditions /temperatures.

I want to feel fabulous and this short cut, in its in-between stage, hidden under a hat, is just not doing the trick for me right now.  Hey, I am not going to feel bad about this!  It’s a woman’s prerogative to change her mind, exercise her options! There now, I feel better about abandoning my short cut for a Baby Curl Twist.  So what does cutting it all off actually mean?  It means it’s just hair and it’ll grow back or not and either way, I’ll just have to rock it!

If you cut your hair short and and went through mental changes, let us hear from you.  If you cut it and loved it and you’re still wearing it short, let us know what that’s like too.  We’d love to hear your story.

The down side of Single extension styles

Single Braids and Twist styles with extensions have been popular since they hit the scene over twenty years ago.  And there’s no wonder why.  First, they look stunning but secondly, they are both versatile and carefree.  You can wear single braids in so many different ways.  For instance depending on the texture of the hair you could wear it foxy like The Miko, or very modern like with Freeze Braids.  Then there’s the Classical single braids or the exotic Baby Curl Twist style which are all very fabulous!

But here’s the down side of wearing singles.  Because of both their beauty and their versatility clients find it difficult to switch it up and find that type of styling addictive.  There can be a cost for that addiction because the down side is that singles are attached to small and some times tiny sections of hair that can become weak from not only the weight of the extension, but also the inadvertent tugging on the new growth exacerbates this thinning of the hair at the roots; which is traction alopecia.

This condition can easily be avoid by switching up your style from single extensions to styles that support the hair at the scalp like cornrows, weaves (which cause hair to grow and thicken because your own hair is resting in a cornrow style) or choosing styles that don’t require extensions at all. You can lead a horse to water…  Often times clients are encouraged by their Stylist to switch up and their response is often, “next time”.  The problem is that the next time gets put off and put off until the next thing you know, the damage has occurred.  This can especially true for clients who have naturally thin or fine hair or who may have weakened their hair from years of chemical processing.  Also woman going through menopause will find that their hair will not bounce back from abuse the way it once did.

You  know what they say, “Crazy is doing the same thing, expecting different results”.  So heed this advice and don’t wait until it’s too late.  No single extension style should be worn over and over again without switching it up.    Otherwise, you’re headed (excuse the pun) for the kind of damage that may not be able to be reversed.

~More Hair!

Good hair, bad hair: Is this concept still alive?

Image is more important today than it’s ever been.  The great news is that we as black women have
come a long way in terms of our acceptance and love of self.  The sad news is we still have
a long way to go.  Remember when Spike Lee’s film, School Daze, addressed the Wannabes and the Jiggaboos. Unfortunately, I’ve noticed evidence confirming this concept to be just as real today as it was
fifty or a hundred years ago. You know what I’m talking about: the good hair/ bad hair
syndrome.  And the syndrome doesn’t exist in a vacuum.  It has shades of color (light
skin and dark skin) in the mix.

The illness is still kicking. We are still suffering from the residual affects of being
brainwashed into believing anything that is African is not as good as the European
standard. And today this good hair / bad hair, light skin vs. dark skin measure of beauty
appears to be more subtle than it used to be. However, In the south it’s still quite prevalent. When there was a Khamit Kinks in Atlanta, back in the late ’80’s early 90’s, you could hear grown, very educated women mention “good hair” in the salon, on a daily basis. It was truly amazing!

Being in the middle seems to be the most exalted of positions.  When a woman is neither
black or white, but mixed—you know exotic— then it seems all others pale in comparison, in terms of what is considered exceptionally beautiful. And yes, the old double standard still exists; a man can be of any complexion, hair type, etc, as long as he’s a man, looks don’t seem to be nearly as high a priority when it comes to whether or not he’s a good catch.

So tell me what you think? Do you believe that you’ve witnessed prejudice or preference
based on hair texture and or complexion?  If so, share your experience.

Sexy Hair

With all this Sex in the City fever, we thought it time we addressed the topic of sexy hair. And, as we already know, besides being beautifully coiffed, sexy hair, on some level, really has to do with the attitude of the wearer. If a woman is feeling beautiful, conducting herself in a lovely manner and has her hair together too; now that’s what you call sexy! Whether you’re wearing luscious Locs, you’ve got it braided, twisted, weaved or you’re sporting a modern fro, you have to rock it with your love of you.

If you’re having some challenges in the sexy department, there’s a book out there entitled, The Orgasmic Diet. Reading this book and following the instructions can help you with libido, orgasms, incontinence and boost sexual self-esteem. Then you can be sexy in the city, the country, at the beach or anywhere else you’d like.

Don’t get me wrong, there’s a time and place for sexiness, but check your sexy radar and see if you’re on the screen. If you’re not, make some moves to get it where you want it to be. Check out our hair survey. In the meantime, email us, come in or call us and let us help you make your sexy hair dreams come true.

Bottom Heavy Locs

There was a time when only Rastas had what was called DreadLocks. Then many jumped on the band wagon and started having salon managed, groomed Locs. As the years go by, one thing that I have noticed with more regularity is, as Locs grow far beyond shoulder length, they become quite heavy. This is not a bad thing if you have a healthy head of thick hair at the roots to support your long Locs, like our lovely model here.

This article is specifically about those who don’t have that support at the roots. I am sure you’ve seen this before or you may be experiencing this yourself, Locs that are hanging on by a thread of hair. This condition causes the hair follicles to be pulled right out of the head (a.ka. Traction Alopecia) , bulb and all; with nary another strand of hair to ever emerge again from that lost follicle.

The hair at the roots may be thinning from male or female pattern baldness that is probably hereditary. Or this thinning could happen because of medication, alopecia, or any number of reasons. The bad thing is that the balding becomes much worse with the weight of the long Locs. Here at Khamit Kinks healthy hair is a priority. As such, often times we’ve attempted to talk to clients with this situation about cutting back some of the length. But there is an attachment to the length.  In the end that attachment is detrimental to the over all health of what hair is left at the roots. What to do?

I’m not going to lie to you and tell it will be alright, because it won’t. The condition is just going to get worse. For all those out there with this issue, please consider cutting back some of your length. It won’t change who you are. You say you have your image to keep up, but honestly speaking, there are other options and all that hair hanging on wisps of hair is not as attractive as you may believe it is. If you don’t believe me, take a poll from your friends and family and see if they are brave enough to tell you the truth about how this really looks. Forget looks, think about the health of your scalp and hair follicles. Come in or call us about other options.

More hair!

Your Healthy Hair

Let’s face it, no matter how great your weave or extensions look, it looks all the more better with the foundation of a healthy head of hair. When you treat your hair good my nourishing it with treatments, the results pay off. Your hair becomes stronger and better able to sustain a great hair do. At Khamit Kinks we encourage our clients to treat their hair good and we offer treatments to help them do so. This is what you can do on the outside.

Feeding your hair from the inside is even more important. We recommend a balanced diet, sufficient in-take of water for internal hydration, a great multi-vitamin coupled with extra vitamin A and E – nutrients that are great for hair, skin, and nails.

Hair Treatments at Khamit Kinks

Moisture Blend Treatment– Is an intense deep conditioning treatment. The Moisture Blend treatment is a moisturizing treatment great for dry, brittle hair, split ends, color treated hair, sun bleached hair, and hair exposed to chlorine. It is also great for de-tangling the hair and makes hair more manageable. This is an excellent treatment for de-tangling children’s hair. $40.00

Icy Mint – is for dry itchy scalp and excessive dandruff. Helps to exfoliate the scalp and increases blood circulation. This treatment also helps alleviate odor that is trapped in the hair. Additionally, the Icy Mint treatment gives a refreshing and invigorating feel to the scalp. $45.00

Jane Carter Treatment – a great treatment for someone who is experiencing for hair breakage, thinning hair or balding . The Jane Carter treatment is a five step process that helps to rejuvenate the scalp and repair the hair. Jane Carter’s products are specially formulated with herbs and essential oils. $55.00

Miss Jessie’s Rapid Recovery Treatment – is a great treatment for nourishing and conditioning hair that is dry and brittle.  It restores silkiness, sheen and moisture to all textures.  This treatment also prevents breakage and ensures healthy growing hair.  This treatment is enhanced with heat from sitting under our steamer. $55.00
Deep Conditioner – any of the above treatments without the steam process. However, the steam allows much more penetration of products into the shaft of the hair and below the surface of the scalp. $25.00

Hot Oil Steam – This hot oil treatment is a simple process that hydrated the hair with the use of Khamit Kinks’ special formulated hair oils. $35.00

Hot oil treatment – Hot oil treatment is great for naturally dry hair such as Locs. This treatment re-hydrates hair. $25.00