Elaisha Jade details the Natural Hair story she never knew she had in partnership with Shea Moisture.
Caring for Your Natural Hair on Winter Vacation
Natural Hair Abroad: What You Should Do Before Protective Styling
Winter is Coming: Crochet Hair Bob Tutorial
5 Protective Styles You need to Try on your Next Trip
If your hair is having a bad vacation, so are you. One of the first things I think about when considering my trip is what I'm going to do with my hair. For those of you not in the kinky/curly club, you've got to understand, it's more than vanity. Tangled curls can be painful to detangle and take the fun and joy out of any day. I avoid having to do anything more than shaking my mane and getting on with my day. Here are my go-to protective hairstyles when travelling.
Crochet Hair
London calling | #curlsunderstood #protectivestles #BGKI | #ElaishaGoes #BlackTravelFeed
A photo posted by E L A I S H A J A D E (@elaishajade) on Jun 25, 2016 at 5:10am PDT
Obviously, I'd start with my new favourite hairstyle! Crochet hair is BOMB! It takes less application time than similar looking styles (see: box braids) but looks just as good. Just get your braiding pattern right and you're set. Actually, now you don't even need to know how to cornrow to get it right.
Patty King > Cold Tea | @taylorbrycemcdermott #ProtectiveStyles #CurlsUnderstood
A photo posted by E L A I S H A J A D E (@elaishajade) on Jun 12, 2016 at 3:37pm PDT
There are a variety of styles from box braids to curls. This is a great choice when you're pressed for time but want a long-lasting style that you can customise.
Box Braids
LA #Vlog 1 is up {link in profile}
A photo posted by E L A I S H A J A D E (@elaishajade) on Jul 19, 2015 at 10:28am PDT
I remember seeing my grandmother come home from the hair dresser's with this style and knowing she was going on a trip. The advantage of this style is, when taken care of properly, they can last a long time.
Now on the #blog: how to look cool when it's #ElaishaGoes {link in profile}
A photo posted by E L A I S H A J A D E (@elaishajade) on Aug 7, 2015 at 7:23pm PDT
I remember travelling to California with my already well-worn box braids and only needing to refresh the front once after 2 weeks. While the application can take a long time (sometimes days depending on the size), the result is priceless. This is a great style when in humid and wet climates.
Feed In Braids
So... because of Valentine's Day I wrote a super personal piece on why I'm single. #OnTheBlog
A photo posted by E L A I S H A J A D E (@elaishajade) on Feb 17, 2016 at 8:48am PST
I remember rocking this style and feeling so cute. However, if you want to try it, get your hair bonnets and head scarves ready. This style, while gorgeous and slick requires extra care to ensure that it stays neat. It's a great style when you're going to be very active and need your hair out of your way.
Twists & Twist Outs
A photo posted by E L A I S H A J A D E (@elaishajade) on Dec 23, 2016 at 6:45pm PST
There's truly nothing better than a classic twist style. If I'm travelling with this hair, I know I can take it out and separate my curls for a special occasion then get then right and tight that night by re-twisting it. Just make sure you bring along your favourite twisting products and detangling tools if you will be re-twisting frequently. This is a great style for more controlled (and dryer) climates.
Pulled Back Bun
When all else fails, I can't go wrong with slicking my edges and pulling my hair up into a classic bun! On trips, I usually bring along some hair gel to ensure that my edges are tame throughout my adventure. This is essential when I'm rocking this hairstyle.
I was smiling 'cause I just ate | @sephoracanada matte lip in #13 didn't budge even after my
A photo posted by E L A I S H A J A D E (@elaishajade) on Sep 26, 2016 at 7:44pm PDT
I dampen the outer edge of my hair, grab a bristle brush or toothbrush then style away. I use a headscarf to quickly manage the drying process into a flat style (and to avoid fly aways). Then voila! The perfect bun. If my hair is battling shrinkage and I want a fuller looking bun, I'll bring along some synthetic kinky curly hair (that matches my own) and shape a natural looking bun!
What's your favourite protective style when travelling? Did it make the cut on my list? Let me know in the comments!
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Winter is Coming: Haircare
I'm excited about winter. I know it's not even fall yet, yet but I can just imagine crisp snow on the sidewalks and the taste of warm apple cider. I can also imagine how brittle my hair normally would be during winter. My curls don't want anything to do with the brutal Canadian weather.
Here are two haircare lines that saved my hair last winter. One is high end, and the other can be considered a drugstore brand. Both are amazing, and I wanted to give them a joint review. That way you could choose to splurge or save while getting your hair ready for the frosty months to come.
I've been using the Garnier Whole Blends line non-stop since I received it at a press event. I was skeptical at first. I've got textured hair which usually doesn't agree with drugstore finds. However, when my hair felt super silky (even after shampooing) I knew Garnier crafted a winner. First of all, it smells amazing. The warm coconut fragrance isn't overpowering. It's just a delicious hint that bounces through my curls and I love it. Before I even add in moisturizer it feels extremely hydrated and stronger after using the winning combination.
Yum! The Kerastase Resistance line smells divine! The hair mask and conditioner leave my hair feeling light and fluffy. It's made for repairing thick damaged hair, which is perfect for the winter months. The shampoo is very cleansing so I use it sparingly when I want a super clean finish (after having my hair in a protective style or a particularly dirty/sweaty week). If I apply heat to my hair I am sure to use the serum throughout my curls. The shiny and silky finish it leaves my hair with is everything!
How do you take care of your hair during winter?