Sunday, October 15, 2017

How To Grow Your Nape Area Long and Healthy

Ismail oubarka | 8:32 AM

  What’s nape hair? It’s that section of your head we have labeled as the kitchen, although I can’t see why since everyone loves the kitchen, Well in all accuracy they usually love what comes out of it: cookies and puddings, cakes, chicken… well I digress but don’t you think it’s a bit funny how […]

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Saturday, October 14, 2017

How to Use Combing Cream for Long Natural Hair Growth

Ismail oubarka | 1:31 AM
How to Use Combing Cream for Long Natural Hair Growth
These curls are only about to get longer....
Sis, get in here. We need to talk about combing cream and your length goals.

Fall is officially here, and colder months always kick off protective styling stints, and more vigilant care in hopes of acquiring a few inches before spring. I'm right there with you. I'm finally ready to call my hair 100% free of hair color damage, and it's about that time to start adding inches.

In my quest for hangtime, I've decided to incorporate a new product from Zotos Professional - the 180PRO Length Revival Combing Cream. What is it exactly? How does it work? And where does it fit in your regimen to promote growth?

Don't worry, I got you. Let's dive in and break down this game changer for #lengthgoals!

How to Use Combing Cream for Long Natural Hair Growth - 180 PRO Length Revival Combing Creme
My new secret weapon - 180PRO Length Revival Combing Cream
What is Combing Cream?
Combing cream is a multi-use, lotion-like product that serves several functions in a natural hair routine. Borrowed from the women of Brazil, combing cremes have gained popularity among naturalistas in the US thanks in large part to how flexible and effective it is. Combing creams are known for having intense slip, which reduces the friction against the hair to make detangling a breeze. They're also known for their moisturizing and frizz fighting properties.

Where Does Combing Cream Fit in My Natural Hair Routine?
Between pre-poos, shampoos, co-washes, rinse-out conditioners, deep conditioners, oils, rinses, moisture mists, refreshers, balms, butters, and edge controls - the average natural's regimen is packed full of product. But what if I told you combing cream could easily replace 3 products in your regimen?

How to Use Combing Cream for Long Natural Hair Growth - 180 PRO Length Revival Combing Creme
Up close and personal with the 180PRO Length Revival Combing Cream
Yes ma'am! It surely can. If you're not pressed for length, but want to reap the benefits of replacing a few products in your regimen with one powerhouse product, jump ahead to the video breaking down the 3 ways I use 180PRO Length Revival Combing Cream.

But if you're on a hair growth quest, let's get down to the nitty gritty.



Combing Cream for Hair Growth
When it comes to maximizing healthy hair growth and achieving length goals, there are two major factors - actual hair growth from the scalp, and length retention. Personally, I believe length retention is more important than the actual rate of hair growth - and here's why. Often times, when we feel like our hair isn't growing, length retention efforts (or lack thereof) are to blame. When we focus too much on increasing rate of growth and don't give enough attention to proper maintenance, the hair we did grow ends up breaking and keeping our length stagnant - creating the illusion that our hair isn't growing.

How to Use Combing Cream for Long Natural Hair Growth - 180 PRO Length Revival Combing Creme
These four will have your hair RIGHT!
My philosophy - barring major medical conditions, our hair is going to grow. Proper maintenance and care will ensure the growth is visible.

And this is where 180PRO Length Revival Combing Cream is about to change the game.

It's no secret that our kinks, coils, and curls are structurally weaker than straight hair - hence how we comb, brush, style, and handle our hair gently (or at least, we're supposed to). Look at a peice of your hair in the mirror. Did you know that each bend along the strand is a structural weak point and hotspot for breakage? And detangling is where our hair is the most vulnerable.

180PRO Length Revival Combing Cream eliminates the fuss and drama notoriously associated with detangling our natural hair. Whether you use a comb, brush, or your fingers, combing cream lubricates and coats the strands with lightweight moisture and slip - protecting the hair from damage caused by friction during detangling.

How to Use Combing Cream for Long Natural Hair Growth
Pre-pooing with 180PRO Length Revival Combing Cream
In addition to moisturizing, softening, detangling, and priming the hair, 180PRO Length Revival Combing Cream works alone or in conjunction with the Length Revival Shampoo, Conditioner, and Miracle Repair Damage Eliminator to fortify and strengthen hair that is prone to breakage, dryness, and damage. This is major for naturals experiencing increased breakage and thinning due to excessive use of heat or color.

3 Ways to Use Combing Cream in Your Natural Hair Regimen
As I mentioned previously, 180PRO Length Revival Combing Cream is a multi-use product that can easily replace 3 or more products in your hair routine. Here's how I've used it in mine:

Pre-Shampoo Detangling Treatment
As a rule of thumb, I always detangle before shampooing. Even the slippiest shampoos sometimes can't safely unravel all of my tangles, and detangling prior to sudsing helps ensure a fuss-free wash day. Because the 180PRO Length Revival Combing Cream is packed with slip, it lubricates the shaft of the hair, allowing strands to glide past each other and release tangles with ease. As a result, I'm able to manipulate my hair while shampooing without causing breakage and damage.

Leave-In & Curl Primer
Y'all know I love me a good leave-in. Leave-ins are a key ingerdient in the secret sauce of a great wash and go style. They help capture your curl pattern in it's most hydrated state, helping your curls ascend to epic levels of washing and going. For highly textured kinks, coils, and curls, 180PRO Length Revival Combing Cream offers lightweight moisture and continued detangling while capturing the curl pattern for styling.

But here's why I'm really about to go peak #lengthgoals:

How to Use Combing Cream for Long Natural Hair Growth - 180 PRO Length Revival Combing Creme
These two are a must-have for naturals who use heat often or have color treated hair.
It involves Miracle Repair Damage Eliminator, which you guys know I love dearly. (receipts) As my primer and leave-in duo, I combine Miracle Repair Damage Eliminator and Length Revival Combing Cream because the two are formulated to work together - binding to the weakest spots along the hair shaft to prevent breakage. The Pro-Peptide complex proteins target and reinforce the hair's weakest points like a magnet of sorts, protecting against breakage while conditioning the hair. Basically, the two help my hair not break off - whether I'm combing, brushing, or letting it all hang out!

Plus, I've found the two are incredibly gel friendly, mixing with some of my favorite gels sans white, goopy balls and flakes.

How to Use Combing Cream for Long Natural Hair Growth
Healthy curls! Used 180PRO Length Revival Combing Cream as my leave-in
Refresher
Even if my hair isn't begging and screaming for moisture, I make it a habit to put something water-based on it on days 2, 3, 4, and sometimes 5 (if I let it go that long). Hydrated hair is less prone to breakage, and 180PRO Length Revival Combing Cream is lightweight enough to not make hair feel oil or greasy while hydrating, and enhancing shine. Plus, you still reap all the breakage-fighting benefits!

Oh and here's a bonus - if you've got a bit of a gel cast still on day 2, you can use the combing cream to break it while leaving hair soft and not disrupting the curl pattern!

The 180PRO Length Revival Combing Cream and the entire Length Revival Collection is available exclusively at Sally Beauty.

Alright now, I done gave y'all the secret sauce. Check for me in April 2017 - my comparison pics are about to be pahhhhhhpin! What are you doing differently this fall to help retain length? Let me know in the comments below!

This blog post is sponsored by Zotos Professional.


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Friday, October 13, 2017

[Style Edit ] My Vintage Store Shopping List

Ismail oubarka | 11:59 AM
One of my favorite past times is driving to the other part of town and check out the rare finds at my favorite thrift store.  Thrifting became a tradition for me back in middle school when my mom first introduced me a huge thrift store that was always packed on the weekends. 

For her, it was a way of saving a few extra dollars on purchases that would normally cost much more. But I fell in love with thrifting because of the unique items that I wouldn't come across in your typical retail store.  I had an eclectic taste in clothing so the thrift store became my favorite place. A couple years ago, I purchased several amazing outerwear pieces from the thrift shop that I absolutely love. 

I'm way overdue for another trip, but this time, I've got a laundry list of exactly what I want.  Let's discuss.


CROPPED SWEATSHIRT
I have this weird hangup about cutting up items that I pay full price for.  But, if it only costs a few bucks, I don't mind experimenting.  I'm on the lookout for an oversized sweatshirt to alter.  I'd like to give it a cropped look similar to what Kerrueche's wearing.  It may not be as revealing in the mid-drift, but I'd love something similar.  I dig how both the waist and sleeves are tailored to give the top and added element of style.  She paired it with a simple skinny jean and statement heels. The entire look appears understated yet very well put together. 
OVERSIZED MENS SHIRT
Next on my purchase list is plain stripped men's button-up shirt.  We've seen effortlessly Rihanna pull off this look. I'd like to try and replicate it. I'll experiment using a man's shirt to see if it gives me enough wiggle room to tie at the waist or leave a few of the top buttons undone without being too revealing.  If that doesn't work out, I could always have it tailored as a cropped button-up shirt.

VINTAGE JEANS
Jean trends are now leaning more towards high waisted, looser fitting cuts.  And whenever there's a new trend, they always want to charge you an arm and a leg. Especially when we're talking about jeans.  Chances are the "newest trend" is has probably been done before and it's sitting on a thrift store rack for a few dollars.  Notice how she removed the hem of the jeans to give it a more modern take.  That's an easy DIY project that can be done in minutes and will save you lots of money. 

STATEMENT SKIRTS
I'm on a mission to acquire a small collection of interesting skirts.  Thrifting will be an integral component of ensuring the success of the plan. Now that I've linked up with a tailor that I absolutely love, I plan on broadening my horizon.  I want a multitude of skirts in various lengths, patterns, and fabrics.  They'll all be paired with graphic tees to keep the look simple.  If you still enjoy mild weather during the fall months, consider adding stylish skirts to your fall style looks.

PRINTED OUTWEAR
If your wardrobe consists mainly of staple items, I invite you to take a step into the unknown by venturing into the world of printed outwear.  Patterened outerwear was made for people like us.  We like to stick to neutral colors and basic items.  The only way to add a bit of flair is by tossing on a coat that was made to draw attention.  Outerwear can get pretty pricey, especially if you are going for one with bold details.  That's why thrifting is your best bet!  It's much more affordable which means that we can step out of our comfort zone by picking up a few different options.  I have enough black and neutral coats. It's time to acquire one that will grab attention the minute I walk into a room. Again, tailoring is important to ensure the fit is perfect. 

This is just the start.  The thrift store is also the perfect place to find one of a kind accessories.  Best of all, it doesn't break the bank which means more money in your pocket to really diversify your wardrobe.




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Thursday, October 12, 2017

Blac Chyna Takes "Going To Bed Greasy" to a Whole New Level

Ismail oubarka | 12:05 PM
Blac Chyna is known for her bold makeup looks and extensive wig collection.  Her entire brand is all about being ultra glam from head to toe.  Underneath it all, Chyna has impeccably beautiful skin.
Even without a stitch of makeup, her skin is blemish free, even toned and has the most healthy glow. I'm sure some of it is genetics.  But after studying the regimen's of women with pretty skin, I learned that most of them have at least one beauty secret responsible for their perfect skin.

 Chyna is no different.
She's currently featured on the cover of Elle Magazine.  As part of the feature, the interviewer asked Chyna to divulge her private beauty rituals.  Chyna doesn't reveal much regarding her skin reggie on social media so I was all ears.

One part of her interview, in particular,  really stood out to me. One of her non-negotiables with regards to her routine is her obsession with moisturizing.

"It all started when someone said, "You have really nice skin." And I was like, "Oh you know what? I actually do." I never realized it until somebody said it to me. I never used to really moisturize my body. I would take a shower, but I wouldn’t really lotion up. I don’t know it wasn’t a thing, but now I have to oil my whole body. So now I'm OCD with the oil. My sheets are oily, my robes are oily. Skin is really important." 

I have brought up the topic of going to bed greasy so many times.  Ever since I discovered that countless women are oiling up their faces at night, I was hooked.  Going to bed greasy sounded pretty scary at first but once I learned that Beyonce, Gabrielle Union, and random flight attendant supermodels were all advocates, I gave it a shot.

It's a small step that creates a big difference.  After reading Chyna's snippet, I have to admit that I'm not as committed to greasing up all over as I should be.  Sure, I switched to using body oil gel instead of lotion and it made a world of difference.  But I only really oil up when my skin is exposed or when I'm headed out.  I don't really put much attention towards oiling my skin before bed like Chyna.

Perhaps I should.

Imagine waking up with soft, ultra-hydrated skin that retained some of the moisture from last night's shower.   That's how life should be.

Winter's coming and it's bringing the dry, crisp air with it.  Now is the time to develop habits that  protect our skin for months and years to come.  Although Chyna didn't elaborate on which oil she prefers, I think I have an idea.
Months ago, Chyna posted this image on Snapchat with no caption.  I quickly took a screenshot and saved it hoping to one day have some context.  The Elle article basically explains the significance of these two products.  I'm guessing that Chyna applies coconut oil all over her skin post-shower.

And, for her face, she opted to splurge on the infamous LA Mer moisturizing soft creme.  According to Chyna, La Mer is "super expensive and ridiculous but worth it."  I wonder if she was influenced to try La Mer by her former bestie Kim K who's a die-hard fan of the brand.

La Mer's claim to fame is the "miracle broth" which is derived from sea kelp and various nutrients.  As you may have heard, I've started blending a tiny pinch of chlorella powder with my daily moisturizer.  We all know that chlorella is from the algae family and is loaded with nutrition. So perhaps I've created my very own variation of a miracle broth cream.  My skin has been looking pretty good lately and I give some of the props to my new and improved superfood moisturizer.

It's worth giving it a try and you don't have to invest hundreds of dollars to try it.






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Wednesday, October 11, 2017

We Are So Here For These Winnie Harlow Dolls

Ismail oubarka | 10:22 AM

Hair and skin are important when it comes to how others see you and this often impacts how you see yourself. I am grateful to be able to see a time when there is diversity in dolls that help reinforce a child’s self image. It’s getting close to that season when gifts are usually expected; […]

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Tuesday, October 10, 2017

If you do this for 20 days, you could increase your collagen production by 14%

Ismail oubarka | 10:55 AM
In 2016, I invested the bulk of my money into various facial gadgets. Some of my purchases include an LED face mask, the ultrasonic face scrubber, and various types of microcurrent devices ranging in various frequencies. 

I still use my handheld microcurrent tool practically every day while sitting in front of the computer. But the ones that emit a more powerful frequency are in my closet collecting dust.  I've been too lazy to give myself a proper microcurrent facial.  But, after reading some promising results from a study on the benefits of microcurrent, I'm ready to finally become consistent.  
Hanna Bronfman, lover of Microcurrent Treatments

The reason why I now own around 4 different microcurrent tools is that I bought into the claims that low-level currents have the ability to lift and strengthen the underlying facial muscles. It's a non-invasive way of helping the face to stay "snatched."  Little did I know that there were actual studies in place that supported the claims

Women under the age of 45 were asked to receive a microcurrent session on a nearly daily basis for at least 20 days.  The study even included some before and after pictures and which we can clearly see the improvement in facial lines.  I always thought of microcurrent as a lifting and toning tool, not as something that could so effective at minimizing wrinkles. I wondered why microcurrent had such a profound effect on their filling in lines and even diminishing acne scars. 

The reason for such a transformation is because microcurrent not only lifts muscles but it also has been proven to increase collagen production by 14%.  Not only does it boost collagen, microcurrent increases the number and lengthens elastin fibers by 45%.  Other benefits include lymph drainage and increased blood circulation to the face by 35%. 

I don't know about you but this type of information excites me! 

The only caveat is that these results are possible after multiple sessions.  The cumulative effects of microcurrent are so much greater if we remain consistent.  While we are on the topic of consistency, I want to briefly update you on my microneedling experience. So far, I've had probably around 6 sessions and my skin has never looked better.  Is it perfect? Not yet, but because I have been consistent my skin has transformed right before my very eyes. 

Currently, I have no facial lines or wrinkles.  When I go for consultations, the estheticians are shocked that I don't need any botox (at my age).  I attribute some of that to regular collagen intake, facial massages, and casual use of microcurrent.  Now I'm ready to get serious and take on a 30-day microcurrent challenge.

While I'm at it, I'm already planning on which treatments to focus on in 2018.  I'd love to see how my skin responds to a regular series of hydrafacial sessions.  Also, need to get back to bi-weekly massages.  The cumulative effects were so worth it.  If you're ready to get serious about your self-care routine, my advice to you is to pick 1-2 areas to focus on and STAY CONSISTENT.  The results will come.





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Monday, October 9, 2017

This Is How To Succeed with Your Side Hustle.

Ismail oubarka | 11:14 AM
This weekend I received a direct message on Instagram.  The young lady was full of excitement in her message as she encouraged me to join her team to earn a side income.  I told her that I loved her mission to help others earn extra income then wished her well on her journey.

It excites me to know how easy it is to earn a side income.  The barrier to entry for some of these business opportunities is very low.  That's a good thing but, on the flip side, the journey for growing your side income could lead to a dead end if you don't take the right approach.

Here's my best advice for taking on the challenge of earning additional income while having a full-time job.
Before all these internet opportunities started popping up, you'd have to get a second job if you wanted additional income.  Taking on a second job was cool but, for the most part, it was unsustainable.  In the digital age, making money is easier, less labor intensive.  But, one the flip side, it's a little harder to generate the results you desire. 

I had a side hustle for many years before it finally evolved into a full-time income.  Looking back, I realize when I made mistakes and when I made the right moves.  The idea of earning a side income is a good one but it can quickly turn sour if not done correctly.  You dedicate a lot of time and mental energy. And if the results aren't there, it can be extremely discouraging. 

My advice is for you to begin with the end in mind.  Meaning, you NEED to determine if your true desire is to earn a few extra dollars a month or if you wish to eventually transition into a new full-time venture.  Because these are two different paths and require different levels of action.  The worst thing you can do is think you can generate full-time income simply by experimenting with a side business. 

If your goal is to create a full-time income (or supersede your current earnings) you need to ask yourself "how many other people are doing this part-time yet earning a full-time income?  Chances are, it's only a small percentage.  This is both good and bad.  Bad, if you want to dedicate only a couple of hours a day on your new venture. Good, if you see others earning high incomes and you're absolutely determined to become one of them.  If you treat this in the same way as you would a part-time job, chances are that you'll end the experience with waisting a lot of your time (and maybe even losing money in the process). 

My advice to people who want to earn a side income is to set your initial goal to generate six figures.  Does that mean that you'll earn easily reach six figures in revenue?  Probably not. But if that becomes your goal, your actions will be wildly different.  Six-figure earners on Youtube are doing things differently than those who make a few hundred dollars a month.  This doesn't mean that you'll earn six figures right away, but you'll shorten that initial ramp-up phase.  The one mistake many people make is to operate like a part-timer yet get discouraged when they get part-time results. 

It's also important to determine if you genuinely enjoy the activities involved with the new business opportunity or if you're only doing because it can make you money.  It's simple, if you don't like it, you won't keep doing it. If you don't keep doing it, you'll never reach a point where it's worth your while.  Starting and stopping is the number 1 reason why people don't reach their goal. If you're contemplating entering a new "part-time" opportunity, ask yourself, "am I willing to put years of work into this?"

If you are, then your next objective is to map out exactly what you need to do to get to earning your first $1000, $10,000, $100,000.  If you don't see a clear path, you need to seriously decide if you should even start down this road.  The biggest mistake I've made in my early days was working on my side income project and treating it like a side income project.  Nowadays, we have more visibility on what successful business people are doing.  We can reverse engineer their journey and mimic some of their actions.  Do a little research to find other 6-figure earners in the same industry and build your plan from there. This clear path is what will ensure your success.  It may not work 100% but it'll create a solid framework for you to start from. 

Once you have a clear idea of your path as a new business person, I strongly urge you to set aside a certain amount of money to invest in your success.  Most (if not all people) view their side income opportunity as something that will bring them money but they rarely think about investing in its growth.  Money is fuel for your business especially if your time is limited.  If you have other responsibilities that require your time, you have to find a way to financially support your business. If you aren't willing to invest money to support its growth, you probably don't truly believe in its potential. 

[ Also, don't spend the little money that you side hustle makes.  The money is not yours.  It's capital for growing the business.  You can spend the paycheck from a part-time job, but your side hustle is completely different.  There is little or no opportunity to scale your part-time job but this business has the ability to produce exponential results. ]

The worse case scenario is for you to invest a bunch of your time into something and get little or nothing out of it.  You can make this work.  But you have to approach it from a different angle.  Set yourself up for success from the start.  Invest tons of time learning and studying the best in your new field.  Allow enough time for your efforts to pay off then you can enjoy the fruit of your labor. 



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