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	<title>Clutch Magazine &#187; Laquita Thomas-Banks</title>
	<atom:link href="http://www.clutchmagonline.com/author/laquita-thomas-banks/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" />
	<link>http://www.clutchmagonline.com</link>
	<description>The Digital Magazine for the Young, Contemporary Woman of Color</description>
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	<language>en</language>
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		<title>How-To: Braid Outs</title>
		<link>http://www.clutchmagonline.com/2011/03/how-to-braid-outs/</link>
		<comments>http://www.clutchmagonline.com/2011/03/how-to-braid-outs/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 24 Mar 2011 06:10:40 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Laquita Thomas-Banks</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[News.Gossip.Info]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Beauty]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Braid-outs are a great way to achieve a textured/wavy look. They are also very versatile. You can wear your braid-out, as is, or wear it as...]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://clutchmag.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Picture-130.png"><img src="http://clutchmag.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Picture-130.png" alt="" title="Braid Out - YAYA" width="394" height="597" class="alignright size-full wp-image-68093" /></a>Braid-outs are a great way to achieve a textured/wavy look. They are also very versatile. You can wear your braid-out, as is, or wear it as a textured puff or updo. Braid-outs are also quick and easy DIY – do-it-yourself- styles that can be achieved with as little as six to eight braids.</p>
<p>Braid-outs can be done as simply as sectioning your hair, adding a small amount of water and/or pomade/alcohol free gel – depending on your hair texture, and braiding each section. After a few hours or overnight, apply a little oil/pomade to each braid, un-braid, fluff and go. You can control they size of your waves by making your braids big or small.</p>
<p>Braid-outs can last anywhere from one to two weeks, and can be done starting with wet or dry hair. They are also a great way to stretch-out natural hair. Some people re-braid their hair each night, but this is not necessary. Maintaining braid-outs is also very easy. Simply cover at night with a satin bonnet, and fluff in the morning.</p>
<p>As the wavy texture of your braid-out fades overtime you can simply re-braid sections or your entire head at night and start the process again. You can also turn your braid-out into a textured puff or updo. Also, after braiding you can add rollers to the end of each braid to achieve a wavy/curly look.</p>
<h3>Quick Braid-out Tips</h3>
<p>1. Make sure you start by braiding with even sections of hair to avoid having to split sections while braiding, which will result in a frizzy braid pattern.</p>
<p>2. Keep your braids in long enough, preferable overnight, in order for your hair to set/form the braid wavy pattern.</p>
<p>3. When working with wet hair, make sure your braids fully dry before unbraiding.</p>
<p>4. Add a little extra oil/pomade at the end of each braid and twist the ends with your fingers (or roll on rollers) to avoid frizzy ends.</p>
<p>5. Before removing braids add a little pomade/styling product to each braid for added shine and to help fight frizz.</p>
<h3>Check out the videos below with step-by-step instructions on how to do braid-outs on wet and dry hair, as well as on various lengths.</h3>
<h3>Dry Hair</h3>
<p><iframe title="YouTube video player" width="640" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/rb-WMSH6m4g" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></p>
<h3>Short Hair</h3>
<p><iframe title="YouTube video player" width="640" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/uoak4m31aFY" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></p>
<h3>Cornrow Braid-out on Wet and Dry Hair</h3>
<p><iframe title="YouTube video player" width="640" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/2FQXzMWTeSY" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></p>
<h3>Medium Length</h3>
<p>PrettyDimples: <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fkzoWOzI_no">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fkzoWOzI_no</a></p>
<h3>Long Hair</h3>
<p><iframe title="YouTube video player" width="640" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/RwQI7BOeuU8" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></p>
<h3>Braid-out w/Curled Ends Ninapruitt</h3>
<p><iframe title="YouTube video player" width="640" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/7h_BbHBlMXg" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>7</slash:comments>
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		<item>
		<title>10 Butters for Your Hair and Skin</title>
		<link>http://www.clutchmagonline.com/2011/03/10-butters-for-your-hair-and-skin/</link>
		<comments>http://www.clutchmagonline.com/2011/03/10-butters-for-your-hair-and-skin/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 19 Mar 2011 19:24:03 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Laquita Thomas-Banks</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[News.Gossip.Info]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Beauty]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://clutchmagonline.com/?p=67598</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Shea, Cocoa, Olive, or Mango may be some of the most common butters known that are beneficial for your hair and skin. Murumuru and Illipe...]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://clutchmag.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Picture-541.png"><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-67655" title="Butters" src="http://clutchmag.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Picture-541.png" alt="" width="332" height="499" /></a>Shea, Cocoa, Olive, or Mango may be some of the most common butters known that are beneficial for your hair and skin. Murumuru and Illipe Butters are amongst the more expensive on the market, but there are other less expensive ones available that can be used alone, or mixed with other butters and even conditioner to enhance their properties.</p>
<p>Butter made from fruit, beans, seeds and leaves is produced by hydrogenating the cold pressed oil extracted from them. From oils themselves, for instance Hemp Seed Oil, butter is produced by extracting the oil and combining the fatty acids and unsaponifiables (wax) from the oil. Extracted oils are also blended with Palm Oil, Soybean Oil or other vegetable oils to make butter.</p>
<blockquote><p><em>The following is a list of butters that you can use on your body and hair &#8211; some of which you may have not heard of. </em></p></blockquote>
<p><strong>1. Sweet Almond Butter</strong> &#8211; its properties are similar to Shea Butter and it contains essential fatty acids. It is great for dry skin/scalp because it hydrates the skin and restores elasticity.</p>
<p><strong>2. Coffee Bean Butter</strong> &#8211; is natural protection from ultraviolet light and is becoming a popular ingredient in sunscreen products. It is an antioxidant and contains phytosterols which have anti-irritation and anti-inflammatory properties, condition skin and hair and promote moisture retention. It is good for dry skin.</p>
<p><strong>3. Kokum Butter </strong>- it has the ability to soften skin and heal ulcerations of lips, hands and soles of feet. Kokum Butter helps reduce degeneration of the skin cells and restores elasticity.</p>
<p><strong>4. Hemp Seed Butter </strong>- is rich in essential fatty acids that nourish the skin and helps reduce moisture loss from the skin.</p>
<p><strong>5. Avocado Butter</strong> &#8211; is a great moisturizing treatment for hair. It makes a good butter for belly balms and lip balms. It can be used as an eye makeup remover and in hair conditioning creams.</p>
<p><strong>6. Green Tea Butter </strong>- is anti-inflammatory, anti-cellulite (much cheaper than those anti-cellulite creams on the market &#8211; about $9 for 8oz) and has anti-irritancy and anti-fungal effects. It has a high content of polyphenols (antioxidants). It protects the skin from aging and against UV-B rays.</p>
<p><strong>7. Pistachio Butter </strong>- rich in fatty acids that moisturizes and softens skin. It has excellent penetrating qualities &#8211; good massage butter. It also has a low comedogenicity (doesn’t clog pores).</p>
<p><strong>8. Macadamia Butter </strong>- has a high concentration of palmitoleic acid, a naturally occurring fatty acid. Our production of palmitoleic acid decreases as we get older so this butter is great for mature skin, as well as and dry skin.</p>
<p><strong>9. Orange Butter</strong> &#8211; has a high concentration of Bioflavonoids (Vitamin P &#8211; that neutralizes free-radicals) polyphenols (antioxidants). It has anti-cellulite and anti-inflammatory properties and other protective benefits for skin, such as a cleansing and toning effect. It can improve oily, acne prone skin.</p>
<p><strong>10. Cupuacu Butter </strong>- is similar to Cocoa Butter, but has a softer, creamier consistency. It contains essential fatty acids and phytosterols, and is very moisturizing for skin and hair. It is also a natural protection from UV-A and UV-B rays. It can be used to treat skin conditions such as eczema and dermatitis and adds shine and replenishes moisture in hair.</p>
<p>Almost all of the butters mentioned above can be purchased at reasonable prices via the links below. Texas Natural Supply sells sample sizes starting at $1.60 and up. The Kokum Butter may be a bit expensive at about $13 for 8oz, as well as the Cupuacu Butter at about $3 an ounce. Remember, if you have an existing scalp or skin conditions consult your doctor or pharmacist before using.</p>
<p><strong>More Information</strong><br />
<a href="http://www.texasnaturalsupply.com/" target="_blank">Texas Natural Supply</a><br />
<a href="http://www.fromnaturewithlove.com/" target="_blank">From Nature With Love</a></p>
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		<title>Celebrating Woman’s History Month With Pioneers/Hair Idols</title>
		<link>http://www.clutchmagonline.com/2011/03/celebrating-woman%e2%80%99s-history-month-with-pioneershair-idols/</link>
		<comments>http://www.clutchmagonline.com/2011/03/celebrating-woman%e2%80%99s-history-month-with-pioneershair-idols/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 16 Mar 2011 20:01:04 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Laquita Thomas-Banks</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[articles]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[News.Gossip.Info]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Suzan-Lori Parks Playwright/Screenwriter Suzan-Lori Parks was the first African American woman in 2002 to win the Pulitzer Prize for Drama...]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://clutchmag.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Picture-301.png"><img src="http://clutchmag.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Picture-301.png" alt="" title="Suzan-Lori Parks" width="207" height="282" class="alignright size-full wp-image-67340" /></a><strong>Suzan-Lori Parks</strong><br />
Playwright/Screenwriter Suzan-Lori Parks was the first African American woman in 2002 to win the Pulitzer Prize for Drama for her play – Topdog/Underdog which starred Jeffrey Wright and Don Cheadle (Wright and Mos Def on Broadway). The play is about two African-American brothers named Lincoln and Booth as a joke by their father. </p>
<p>She also worked on the screenplays for Their Eyes are Watching God and The Great Debaters.</p>
<p>She credits her writing teacher and mentor, James Baldwin, for starting her on the path of playwrighting. James Baldwin stated that she is &#8220;an astonishing and beautiful creature who may become one of the most valuable artists of our time.&#8221; </p>

<a href='http://www.clutchmagonline.com/2011/03/celebrating-woman%e2%80%99s-history-month-with-pioneershair-idols/picture-33-7/' title='Madam Cj Walker'><img width="144" height="105" src="http://clutchmag.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Picture-331-144x105.png" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="Madam Cj Walker" title="Madam Cj Walker" /></a>
<a href='http://www.clutchmagonline.com/2011/03/celebrating-woman%e2%80%99s-history-month-with-pioneershair-idols/picture-30-4/' title='Suzan-Lori Parks'><img width="144" height="105" src="http://clutchmag.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Picture-301-144x105.png" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="Suzan-Lori Parks" title="Suzan-Lori Parks" /></a>
<a href='http://www.clutchmagonline.com/2011/03/celebrating-woman%e2%80%99s-history-month-with-pioneershair-idols/picture-31-6/' title='ursula_burns'><img width="144" height="105" src="http://clutchmag.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Picture-311-144x105.png" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="ursula_burns" title="ursula_burns" /></a>
<a href='http://www.clutchmagonline.com/2011/03/celebrating-woman%e2%80%99s-history-month-with-pioneershair-idols/picture-28-4/' title='angela davis and toni morrison'><img width="144" height="105" src="http://clutchmag.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Picture-281-144x105.png" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="angela davis and toni morrison" title="angela davis and toni morrison" /></a>

<p><strong>Angela Davis and Toni Morrison </strong><br />
Activist, philosopher and writer, Angela Davis, was once on the FBI&#8217;s Ten Most Wanted list. Her image &#8211; is associated with the Black Panthers, and the Black Power Movement. Very few know that before the Black Panthers, she was active with the Student Non-violent Coordinating Committee, SNCC, and that she ran for U.S. Vice President in 1985 on the Communist Party Ticket. </p>
<p>Some of her books include, Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave, Blues Legacies and Black Feminism: Gertude &#8220;MA&#8221; Rainey, Bessie Smith and Billie Holiday, Women, Culture and Politics, and Angela Davis: An Autobiography. </p>
<p>Novelist, editor and professor, Toni Morrison has won the Nobel prize in Literature &#8211; the first black woman to do so &#8211; and the Pulitzer, as well as other literary awards. Some of her books include, Sula, The Bluest Eye, Beloved, Paradise, Love, Song of Solomon, Tar Baby, Remember and The Dancing Mind. </p>
<p><strong>Ursula Burns </strong><br />
Ursula Burns is the first black woman CEO of a Fortune 500 company. She is also the first woman to succeed another woman as head of a Fortune 500 company. On July 1, 2009 she was named the CEO of  Xerox. She accomplished this all while sporting her TWA :o) </p>
<p>She serves as Director of the F.I.R.S.T. (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Foundation, National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University, and the National Academy Foundation. </p>
<p>She was named by President Barack Obama to help lead the White House national program on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) in November 2009 and was appointed Vice Chair of the President’s Export Council in March 2010. </p>
<p><strong>Madam C.J. Walker</strong><br />
Business woman, and philanthropist, Madam C.J. Walker is truly one of my inspirations, not only did she rise from the cotton fields in the south to starting her own hair business, she gave back to her community as well. </p>
<p>“I am a woman who came from the cotton fields of the South. From there I was promoted to the washtub. From there I was promoted to the cook kitchen. And from there I promoted myself into the business of manufacturing hair goods and preparations….I have built my own factory on my own ground.” Madam Walker, National Negro Business League Convention. </p>
<p>I had the opportunity to interview A’Lelia Bundles and she had this to say about her great-great grandmother. “I hope people will remember that Madam Walker’s business success is only part of her legacy. That she became a millionaire is, of course, noteworthy, but that she used her wealth and influence as a philanthropist, political activist and advocate for women’s economic independence really is what makes her worth remembering.”  </p>
<p>“Even then, her focus was on healthy hair and healing the scalp disease that was so rampant at the time …. I know many people still associate her primarily with hair straightening, but if they really examine the record – looking at her original ads, her letters, the products she and the Walker Company actually sold before her death in 1919 – I believe their interpretation would be different,” she added. </p>
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		<title>Babassu Oil: A Coconut Oil Alternative</title>
		<link>http://www.clutchmagonline.com/2011/03/babassu-oil-a-coconut-oil-alternative/</link>
		<comments>http://www.clutchmagonline.com/2011/03/babassu-oil-a-coconut-oil-alternative/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 04 Mar 2011 15:52:07 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Laquita Thomas-Banks</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[News.Gossip.Info]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Beauty]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://clutchmagonline.com/?p=65617</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Babassu oil (Orbignya Oleifera Seed Oil) is expeller pressed from the kernels of the Babassu palm tree. The tree, native to Brazil, is an...]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-65618" title="Babassu" src="http://clutchmagonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Picture-23.png" alt="" width="437" height="595" />Babassu oil (Orbignya Oleifera Seed Oil) is expeller pressed from the kernels of the Babassu palm tree. The tree, native to Brazil, is an important economic resource for the country.</p>
<p>The properties of Babassu oil are similar to coconut oil, without the greasy feel. Just like coconut oil, it is composed of lauric, myristic and oleic acids, which are fatty acids beneficial for our hair and scalp.</p>
<p>The melting points of the acids are close to our body temperature, so when the oil is applied, it draws the heat from our skin and begins to melt. This process leaves a cooling sensation on the skin.</p>
<p>Babassu oil also forms a protective, soothing coat when applied to the skin as well as a pleasant, smooth feeling. Babassu oil, can be purchased in oil and butter form, for about $10 for 16 ounces of the oil and $10 for 8 ounces of the butter.</p>
<p>The oil is used in everything from food to cosmetics and soaps. It is an emollient, that is good for soothing and protecting the skin, hair/scalp. It can be used for eczema, itchy, dry, inflamed skin/scalp and to soften and condition hair.</p>
<p>You can substitute Babassu oil or butter in hair recipes that call for coconut oil or use it alone as a hot oil or pre-shampoo treatment, mix a little in your conditioner to enhance its properties, or to seal in moisture after washing.</p>
<p><strong>More info:</strong><br />
<a href="http://soaperschoice.com">Babassu Oil</a><br />
<a href="http://www.fromnaturewithlove.com">From Nature With Love</a><br />
<a href="http://www.wholesalesuppliesplus.com">Wholesale Supplies Plus</a><br />
<a href="https://anitagrant.com">Anita Grant Babassu Shampoo Bars</a></p>
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		<title>Kim Coles Natural Hair Journey and Grow-Out Challenge</title>
		<link>http://www.clutchmagonline.com/2011/03/kim-coles-natural-hair-journey-and-grow-out-challenge/</link>
		<comments>http://www.clutchmagonline.com/2011/03/kim-coles-natural-hair-journey-and-grow-out-challenge/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 03 Mar 2011 05:56:45 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Laquita Thomas-Banks</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[News.Gossip.Info]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Beauty]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://clutchmagonline.com/?p=65615</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[By now, most all natural hair wearers and hair enthusiasts have all heard of the latest celebrity who is now wearing her hair natural...]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-65777" title="Kim Coles" src="http://clutchmagonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Picture-35.png" alt="" width="457" height="611" />By now, most all natural hair wearers and hair enthusiasts have all heard of the latest celebrity who is now wearing her hair natural &#8211; Kim Coles. She decided to embark on the natural hair journey &#8211; giving up her famed Living Single micro-braids &#8211;  announcing and debuting her new natural look via <em><a href="http://www.afrobella.com/2011/01/03/kim-coles-goes-natural/" target="_blank">Afrobella</a></em>.</p>
<p>“The bottom line is that it’s all about self-love. It’s all about being really comfortable with who you are the way you are…” she stated on her <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/therealkimcoles" target="_blank">Kim Coles Open the G.I.F.T.S YouTube channel</a>.</p>
<p>You can follow Kim Coles’ natural hair journey via her YouTube channel, as well as join her 2011 Grow-Out Challenge. The 6 month challenge, which started this month so there is still time to join, is sponsored by Kim Coles, CurlyNikki, and Jessicurl via the <em><a href="http://www.naturallycurly.com/kimcolesgrowout" target="_blank">NaturallyCurly </a></em>website .</p>
<p>The site states that you can join the challenge whether your goal is chin length or mid back length, to grow out your chic TWA, or to simply achieve healthier natural hair. “Kim Coles invites curlycues everywhere to embark on the sometimes difficult, yet, completely rewarding challenge of maximizing growth potential, maintaining length, and revealing your healthiest hair possible,” it adds.</p>
<p>Each month, CurlyNikki, Kim Coles and Jessicurl will select three lucky entrants to receive a Personal Hair Prescription, as well as a supply of Jessicurl products. Visit the <em>NaturallyCurly</em> (link below) to enter.<br />
Also, Kim Coles is documenting her natural hair journey on her YouTube channel. Check out the following videos, where she talks about her reasons for going natural, her inspirations, and shares pictures of her hair journey. Also visit her channel to watch her <em><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=31bhB2w1hmI">Monthiversary</a></em> video and more.</p>
<p><strong>Kim Coles Natural Hair Journey Part 1</strong></p>
<p><iframe title="YouTube video player" width="640" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/Fa_46uAP_jc" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></p>
<p><strong>Kim Coles Natural Hair Journey Part 2</strong></p>
<p><iframe title="YouTube video player" width="640" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/zKlCfBSXJTg" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></p>
<p><strong>Kim Coles Natural Hair Journey Part 3</strong></p>
<p><iframe title="YouTube video player" width="640" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/0LgeyMIfc6w" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></p>
<p><strong>More Information</strong><br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/therealkimcoles"><strong>More Kim Coles Videos</strong> </a><br />
<strong><a href="http://www.naturallycurly.com/kimcolesgrowout">Naturally Curly/Grow Out Challenge</a></strong><br />
<strong><a href="http://www.curlynikki.com">CurlyNikki</a></strong><br />
<strong><a href="http://www.jessicurl.com/">Jessicurl</a></strong></p>
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		<slash:comments>10</slash:comments>
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		<title>Mixed Reactions on Sesame Street&#8217;s &#8216;I Love My Hair&#8217;</title>
		<link>http://www.clutchmagonline.com/2010/10/mixed-reactions-on-sesame-streets-i-love-my-hair/</link>
		<comments>http://www.clutchmagonline.com/2010/10/mixed-reactions-on-sesame-streets-i-love-my-hair/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 16 Oct 2010 13:49:18 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Laquita Thomas-Banks</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[News.Gossip.Info]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Sesame Street has chimed in on natural hair. In a video featuring a brown muppet singing a song titled “I Love My Hair” Sesame Street is...]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-57138" title="SS" src="http://clutchmagonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/SS.png" alt="" width="347" height="346" />Sesame Street has chimed in on natural hair. In a video featuring a brown muppet singing a song titled “I Love My Hair” Sesame Street is encouraging our little sisters to love their natural tresses. The video has been posted on several websites, and blogs such as <a href="http://afrobella.com" target="_blank">Afrobella</a>, <a href="http://flygirls.typepad.com" target="_blank">Fly</a>, <a href="http://afroglitz.com" target="_blank">AfroGlitz</a>, <a href="http://www.essence.com" target="_blank">Essence</a>, <a href="http://huffingtonpost.com" target="_blank">The Huffington Post</a>, as well as Facebook and Twitter.</p>
<p>Sesame Street’s “I Love My Hair” is getting tons of buzz, both positive and negative. A post by The Fashion Bomb titled “Not Everyone Loves ‘I Love My Hair’”, referring to the video posted on Afrobella’s blog states, “ Refreshing and sweet, it’s hard to think that anyone could find fault with a nursery tune meant to positively reinforce natural hair for young children of color. But a few commenters took to <a href="http://www.facebook.com/afrobellablog" target="_blank">Bella’s Facebook Page to complain</a>.” The writer goes on to quote one of the comments.</p>
<p>There were also several negative comments on <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/SesameStreet" target="_blank">Sesame Street’s Youtube channel</a>, but all in all the positives outweigh the negative. Sesame Street’s “I Love My Hair” is very encouraging and a wonderful message for all ages. The muppet proclaims she doesn’t need a trip to the beauty shop, because she loves what she’s got on top.</p>
<p>She goes on to sing, “Wear a clippy or in a bow, or let it sit in an afro. My hair looks good in a cornrow. It does so many things; you know that&#8217;s why I let it grow.” Doing so while showing off her natural hair with several accessories and hairstyles, such as an afro, cornrows, twists, and an updo. She finishes this verse with “I love my hair. I love my hair. I want to make the world aware I love my hair.” Who wouldn’t think this is a positive message?</p>
<h3>Lyrics</h3>
<p><em>Don’t need a trip to the beauty shop,<br />
’cause I love what I got on top.<br />
It’s curly and it’s brown and it’s right up there!<br />
You know what I love? That’s right, my hair!<br />
I really love my hair.<br />
I love my hair. I love my hair.<br />
There’s nothing else that can compare with my hair.<br />
I love my hair, so I must declare:<br />
I really, really, really love my hair.<br />
Wear a clippy or in a bow<br />
Or let it sit in an afro<br />
My hair looks good in a cornrow<br />
It does so many things you know, that’s why I let it grow<br />
I love my hair, I love my hair<br />
I love it and I have to share<br />
I love my hair, I love my hair!<br />
I want to make the world aware I love my hair.<br />
I wear it up. I wear down. I wear it twisted all around.<br />
I wear braids and pigtails too.<br />
I love all the things my hair can do.<br />
In barrettes or flying free, ever perfect tresses you’ll see<br />
My hair is part of me, an awesome part of me<br />
I really love my hair!</em></p>
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<h3>I Love My Hair Article Links:</h3>
<p><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/SesameStreet" target="_blank">Sesame Street Youtube Channel</a><br />
<a href="http://www.afrobella.com/2010/10/12/even-more-reasons-to-love-sesame-street/ " target="_blank">Afrobella</a><br />
<a href="http://fashionbombdaily.com/2010/10/14/not-everyone-loves-i-love-my-hair/ " target="_blank">The Fashion Bomb</a><br />
<a href="http://flygirls.typepad.com/fly/2010/10/sesame-streets-i-love-my-hair.html" target="_blank">Fly </a><br />
<a href="http://hair.afroglitzmag.com/sesame-streets-i-love-my-hair/" target="_blank">AfroGlitz</a></p>
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		<title>Getting Back to Basics: Shea Butter for Natural Hair and Body</title>
		<link>http://www.clutchmagonline.com/2010/08/getting-back-to-basics-shea-butter-for-natural-hair-and-body/</link>
		<comments>http://www.clutchmagonline.com/2010/08/getting-back-to-basics-shea-butter-for-natural-hair-and-body/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 12 Aug 2010 17:12:15 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Laquita Thomas-Banks</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Beauty]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Featured News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[News.Gossip.Info]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[With the now widespread availability of natural products on the internet and even in local Target stores, it’s very easy to get in the...]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://clutchmagonline.com/newsgossipinfo/getting-back-to-basics-shea-butter-for-natural-hair-and-body/attachment/picture-750-2/" rel="attachment wp-att-52335"><img src="http://clutchmagonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/Picture-750.png" alt="" title="Shea Butter" width="443" height="376" class="alignright size-full wp-image-52335" /></a>With the now widespread availability of natural products on the internet and even in local Target stores, it’s very easy to get in the habit of crowding bathroom shelves with  commercial, store-bought products. I can remember a time when just plain old Shea butter was the moisturizing staple of choice.</p>
<p>Shea butter was one of my staples, and really still is but now it’s mixed in the various products that I use. But just ‘plain old’ Shea butter can be used on your hair and body, and for those who don’t particuarly like the smell, it can be easily mixed with scent as well.</p>
<p>Shea butter originates from the Karite Nut tree, also called the Mangifolia tree, found in the semi-arid savannahs of West and Central Africa. The Karite Nut tree, also called the “tee of life” can live for 300 years and almost all parts of the tree have some practical use. The bark is an ingredient in traditional medicines against certain childhood illnesses and minor scrapes and cuts. The shell of the nuts can repel mosquitoes.</p>
<p>The fruity part of the nut, when crushed, results in a vegetable oil that can be used in soap-making, cooking, and skin and hair care. The oil extracted has a relatively high melting point and is used in rural areas in the making of foods, traditional drugs and cosmetics. Shea is mainly exported as smoked kernels and can be used as an extender in chocolate as its properties are similar to cocoa butter.</p>
<p>Although in the last few years, Shea butter has become popular in the US, it has been used by the women of West Africa for centuries. Shea butter can also help to protect the skin against the damaging effects of the sun, while repairing cellular degeneration. It contains vitamins A and E, and has demonstrated both antimicrobial (kills or inhibits the growth of microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, or protozoa), and anti-inflammatory properties.</p>
<p>In most parts of West Africa, destruction of the Shea tree is prohibited because the nut provides a valuable source of food, medicine, and income for the population. In fact, Shea butter is sometimes referred to as “women’s gold” in Africa, because so many women are employed in the production of Shea butter.</p>
<p>Shea butter may also help treat skin problems such as eczema and psoriasis; however, keep in mind that you should always consult a physician or dermatologist about serious or persistent skin problems. Shea butter is not recommended for people with nut or latex allergies.</p>
<p>As the many moisturizing hair/body products that I have purchased over the last few months run down, I am going to make a commitment to go back to basics and replace them with good old Shea butter, then I’ll have tons more room on my bathroom shelves as well as more money in my pocket.</p>
<p><strong>Places to Purchase Shea butter:</strong><br />
<a href="http://www.oilsbynature.com/merchant2/" target="_blank">Oils by Nature</a><br />
<a href="http://www.wholesalesuppliesplus.com/" target="_blank">Wholesale Supplies Plus</a><br />
<a href="http://www.fromnaturewithlove.com/ " target="_blank">From Nature with Love</a></p>
<p><strong>More Information</strong>:<br />
<a href="http://www.thesheaproject.org/sheatree.html" target="_blank">The Shea Project</a><br />
<a href="http://www.treasuredlocks.com/shebutben.html" target="_blank">Treasured Locks</a><br />
<a href="http://www.pioneerthinking.com/cd_sheabutter.html " target="_blank">Pioneer Thinking</a><br />
<a href="http://www.howtopedia.org/en/How_to_Grow_Shea_Trees_(Karit%C3%A9,_Nku,_Bambuk_Butter_tree) " target="_blank">How to Pedia</a></p>
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		<title>Spotlight: Natural Hair Celebrity &#8211; T&#8217;Keyah Crystal Keymah</title>
		<link>http://www.clutchmagonline.com/2010/06/spotlight-natural-hair-celebrity-tkeyah-crystal-keymah/</link>
		<comments>http://www.clutchmagonline.com/2010/06/spotlight-natural-hair-celebrity-tkeyah-crystal-keymah/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 23 Jun 2010 13:43:57 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Laquita Thomas-Banks</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[News.Gossip.Info]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[interview]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[To say that T’Keyah Crystal Keymah is multi-talented is an understatement. She is a performer, writer, author, producer, director, and...]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a rel="attachment wp-att-48618" href="http://clutchmagonline.com/newsgossipinfo/spotlight-natural-hair-celebrity-tkeyah-crystal-keymah/attachment/tkeyah_crystal_keymah/"><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-48618" title="TKeyah_Crystal_Keymah" src="http://clutchmagonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/TKeyah_Crystal_Keymah.jpeg" alt="" width="470" height="500" /></a>To say that T’Keyah Crystal Keymah is multi-talented is an understatement. She is a performer, writer, author, producer, director, and public speaker. T&#8217;Keyah has performed on stage, television and film, and is also a philanthropist. Whether you remember her from the Emmy Award winning comedies like &#8220;In Living Color&#8221; and &#8220;The Cosby Show&#8221; or the longest running series in Disney Channel’s history, &#8220;That’s So Raven,&#8221; aside from her remarkable talents, you will definitely not forget her beautiful head of natural hair.</p>
<p>She also wrote and self-published a book containing simple, step-by-step instructions on maintaining natural hair called <em><strong><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Natural-Woman-Hair-step-step/dp/0971402108" target="_blank">Natural Woman/Natural Hair: A Hair Journey</a></strong></em> at a time when natural hair books were a rare find. If you haven&#8217;t read it, it’s definitely one to add to your beauty books shelf.</p>
<blockquote><p>T’Keyah Crystal Keymah took time out from her busy schedule to share her growing hair journey with CLUTCH!</p></blockquote>
<p><strong>Her natural hair journey&#8230;</strong></p>
<p>Like most little Black girls of my generation, I grew up getting my hair pressed for school photos and other special occasions; and learning in the process (pun intended) that something was wrong with the natural state of my hair. I learned at my grandmother&#8217;s stove that God made Black girls less beautiful, less desirable, less acceptable than those that would grow up to grace magazine covers and such without ever getting their ears burned by a hot comb&#8230;</p>
<p>But with help from the gorgeous afroed images of Pam Grier, Rosalind Cash, and the like, I began to unlearn that awful myth. I think my first trip to Senegal, however cemented in me the idea that it was perfectly fine for my hair to match my face and my lineage. Like my dear late great friend Ms. Cash, wearing my hair naturally cost me many jobs. But like my mentor, I have, gratefully, been able to survive and even thrive in an industry that equates nappy/kinky/coily hair with poverty and ignorance.</p>
<p><strong>Her favorite styles and products:</strong></p>
<p>My favorite styles are twists and ponypuffs. I experiment with many different products. At the moment, I&#8217;m using Products of the Earth, Carol&#8217;s Daughter and Namaste. I don&#8217;t have much time to surf the net, but I have seen some of the natural hair sites. It is encouraging to see that so many people are now celebrating their natural hair.</p>
<p><strong>On writing her book <em>Natural Woman/Natural Hair</em>:<br />
</strong></p>
<p>I wrote NWNH because I wished there had been such a book for me when I first went natural and, again, when I first started working in television. I also wrote it because of the fan mail that I got and still get from natural hair fans.</p>
<p><strong>Her thoughts on the rise in natural hair/natural hair products:<br />
</strong></p>
<p>I love it, love it, love it! It is so very important that we spread the word to our sisters, friends, mothers and daughters that there is nothing wrong with us. That we, in fact, are beautiful too! Where products are concerned, I am particularly proud of all of the Black owned natural hair care companies on the horizon. I encourage people to support the independent companies who are struggling to survive in a harshly competitive market infested with perpetrators. Read labels!!!! Everybody is not who they say they are, doing what they say they are doing.</p>
<p><strong>Her advice to those transitioning and contemplating wearing their hair natural: </strong></p>
<p>Be creative. Be adventurous. Be confident. Be patient.</p>
<p><strong>What she’s doing now: </strong></p>
<p>At the time of the interview, she was in Chicago preparing for the gospel concert, T&#8217;Keyah Crystal Keymah Salutes Gospel&#8217;s Original Diva! which took place on June 18. The concert, which celebrated the roots of gospel music (T&#8217;Keyah, herself, singing songs by the great gospel divas), kicked-off the Black Music Month Gospel Trade Symposium in Chicago.</p>
<p>“After that I will go back to the screenplay on which I have been working for a while, as well as another music project. I may also do a play this summer,” she added.</p>
<p><strong>More T&#8217;Keyah:</strong></p>
<p>Website:<strong> <a href="http://www.tkeyah.com/" target="_blank">tkeyah.com</a></strong></p>
<p>Blogs:</p>
<p><strong><a href="http://keymahpresents.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">keymahpresents.blogspot.com </a></strong></p>
<p><strong><a href="http://www.thecrystalnews.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">thecrystalnews.blogspot.com</a></strong></p>
<p><strong>Facebook Fan Page:</strong><strong> <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/TKeyah-Crystal-Keymah/112419682103299?ref=ts" target="_blank">TKeyah-Crystal-Keymah</a></strong></p>
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		<slash:comments>13</slash:comments>
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		<title>Summer Hairstyles for Naturals</title>
		<link>http://www.clutchmagonline.com/2010/06/summer-hairstyles-for-naturals/</link>
		<comments>http://www.clutchmagonline.com/2010/06/summer-hairstyles-for-naturals/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 11 Jun 2010 23:25:06 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Laquita Thomas-Banks</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[News.Gossip.Info]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Beauty]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[What’s your favorite summer hairstyle? For me it’s braided or twisted buns. The following bloggers share their favorite summer...]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a rel="attachment wp-att-47446" href="http://clutchmagonline.com/newsgossipinfo/summer-hairstyles-for-naturals/attachment/milan-2/"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-47446" title="Milan 2" src="http://clutchmagonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/Milan-2.jpg" alt="" width="640" height="480" /></a></p>
<blockquote><p><em>What’s your favorite summer hairstyle? For me it’s braided or twisted buns. The following bloggers share their favorite summer hairstyles with CLUTCH . Each of these beautiful do-it-yourself styles take just minutes to achieve.</em></p></blockquote>

<a href='http://www.clutchmagonline.com/2010/06/summer-hairstyles-for-naturals/milan-2/' title='Milan '><img width="144" height="105" src="http://clutchmag.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Milan-2-144x105.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="Milan" title="Milan" /></a>
<a href='http://www.clutchmagonline.com/2010/06/summer-hairstyles-for-naturals/picture-39-2/' title='BlaqKofi’s Loc Updo '><img width="144" height="105" src="http://clutchmag.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Picture-39-144x105.png" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="BlaqKofi’s Loc Updo" title="BlaqKofi’s Loc Updo" /></a>
<a href='http://www.clutchmagonline.com/2010/06/summer-hairstyles-for-naturals/picture-40-2/' title='BlaqKofi’s Loc Updo '><img width="144" height="105" src="http://clutchmag.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Picture-40-144x105.png" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="BlaqKofi’s Loc Updo" title="BlaqKofi’s Loc Updo" /></a>
<a href='http://www.clutchmagonline.com/2010/06/summer-hairstyles-for-naturals/tamara2/' title='Tamara'><img width="144" height="105" src="http://clutchmag.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Tamara2-144x105.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="Tamara" title="Tamara" /></a>
<a href='http://www.clutchmagonline.com/2010/06/summer-hairstyles-for-naturals/tamara1/' title='Tamara'><img width="144" height="105" src="http://clutchmag.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Tamara1-144x105.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="Tamara" title="Tamara" /></a>
<a href='http://www.clutchmagonline.com/2010/06/summer-hairstyles-for-naturals/picture-43-2/' title='Curly Nikki '><img width="144" height="105" src="http://clutchmag.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Picture-43-144x105.png" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="Curly Nikki" title="Curly Nikki" /></a>
<a href='http://www.clutchmagonline.com/2010/06/summer-hairstyles-for-naturals/picture-42-2/' title='Curly Nikki '><img width="144" height="105" src="http://clutchmag.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Picture-42-144x105.png" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="Curly Nikki" title="Curly Nikki" /></a>
<a href='http://www.clutchmagonline.com/2010/06/summer-hairstyles-for-naturals/picture-41-2/' title='Curly Nikki '><img width="144" height="105" src="http://clutchmag.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Picture-41-144x105.png" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="Curly Nikki" title="Curly Nikki" /></a>
<a href='http://www.clutchmagonline.com/2010/06/summer-hairstyles-for-naturals/brittany2-2/' title='Brittany'><img width="144" height="105" src="http://clutchmag.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Brittany2-144x105.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="Brittany" title="Brittany" /></a>
<a href='http://www.clutchmagonline.com/2010/06/summer-hairstyles-for-naturals/brittany1/' title='Brittany'><img width="144" height="105" src="http://clutchmag.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Brittany1-144x105.jpg" class="attachment-thumbnail" alt="Brittany" title="Brittany" /></a>

<p><strong>BlaqKofi’s Loc Updo</strong><br />
BlaqKofi doesn&#8217;t use many products on her hair. The only things she used to create this beautiful updo is water and a few bendable curlers.</p>
<p>First mist hair with water, then roll. Allow hair to dry and gently release each curl to the desired amount of fullness. Pin/clip sides back or use a hair tie to pull high, pull out a few soft curls around the face and nape of neck and voila! You&#8217;re off and running in 10 minutes or less.</p>
<p><strong><a href="http://www.blaqkofi.com" target="_blank">Visit BlaqKofi&#8217;s website</a></strong></p>
<p><strong>Milan’s Twist-Out</strong><br />
I first stretch my hair via braids (braid it nightly) for two days, once my hair&#8217;s stretched pretty good, section by section I mist my hair with a homemade mist: water, Aloe Vera juice, grapeseed oil, and a little Giovanni Smooth as Silk conditioner and comb it through to detangle and evenly distribute.</p>
<p>I flat twist the front and top sections of my hair in a downward direction and then do medium to large, free two-strand twists on the rest of my hair. The next day, I rub a little grapeseed oil in my hands and take down the twists and fluff. Sometimes I will put some of the front pieces in small two strand twists and/or add a hair flower That&#8217;s it!</p>
<p><strong><a href="http://www.agrlcanmac.com" target="_blank">Visit Milan&#8217;s blog</a></strong></p>
<p><strong>Brittany’s Curly Locs</strong><br />
I consider curly locs to be what naturals call a &#8220;protective style&#8221;. Curling your locs can prevent you from playing in them and feeling as if you HAVE to do them. And it&#8217;s easy as sweet potato pie, mama!</p>
<p>The sizes of the perm rod rollers are completely up to you. If you would like tighter curls, go with smaller rods. If your preference is larger curls, go with larger rods. You will get the best results of this hairstyle by doing it on wet hair. You don&#8217;t have to wash your locs, but make sure that they are saturated with a good amount of water.</p>
<p>I like to use Aloe Vera gel or Organics Stimulator Loc &amp; Twist gel, but really you can use any product that will give your hair some kind of hold. And then get your roll on! The best thing about rolling the locs is that there really isn&#8217;t a method. You don&#8217;t have to separate the hair a certain way or anything.</p>
<p>I like to sit under the dryer for a good 20 minutes or so but that is completely optional. The locs will still curl beautifully without the use of heat. Gently remove your rollers and style as you like. You can finger comb them, pin the up, swoop them to the side, do an up-do or simply leave them be. The curls will last through sweaty work-outs, a run in the rain and hours of lounging by the pool. Toss a flower in and girl you&#8217;ve got a loc rockin&#8217; summer style!</p>
<p><strong><a href="http://www.locrocker.com" target="_blank">Visit Brittany’s site</a></strong></p>
<p><strong>Tamara of Natural Hair Rules Braid-Out style</strong><br />
First, I wash my hair either with a gentle sulfate-free shampoo or conditioner. After fully detangling, rub leave-in conditioner and moisturizer from root to tip. Less is more when using styling products such as Miss Jessie’s that have moisturizing ingredients in their styling products. I recommend sectioning your hair in four parts. Start in the back of your head and work your way to the front.</p>
<p>Throughout the braiding process keep a spray bottle handy. Finger comb styling product into the section from root to tip to minimize frizz. After braiding, twist the ends of the braid in between your thumb and index finger to encourage the end of the braid to curl. If you are transitioning or want a larger curl at the end of the braid; roll the ends with a roller. When finished braiding, seal in moisture with your favorite oil.</p>
<p>It is very important to allow the hair to dry completely before unraveling. Take care not to disturb the wave/curl pattern of the braids. This will help to minimize frizz. To achieve a fuller look; fluff the hair by pulling the braid-out sections apart and also use your fingers to rake the hair at the roots to cover parts. To maintain this style cover with a satin bonnet or scarf before bed.</p>
<p><strong><a href="http://naturalhairrules.blogspot.com/2010/05/my-summer-do-braid-out.html" target="_blank">More Natural Hair Rules pics &amp; styling details<br />
</a></strong></p>
<p><strong> Curly Nikki of <a href="http://www.CurlyNikki.com" target="_blank">Curly Nikki.com</a></strong><strong> presents Princess Lea</strong><br />
The style is easy to do, lasts for a week, and is great if you workout regularly. I always start with soaking wet, detangled hair separated into two halves.</p>
<p><strong>Products:</strong> Deva Care One for styling, smoothing, and moisture, Ouchless Pony Tail Holders to secure the buns, Deva Set it Free (optional) for definition and frizz reduction and a Goody Ouchless Brush for detangling (optional).</p>
<p>Remove the twists and add a generous amount of Deva Care or DevaCurl One (Set it Free is optional). Rake product through so that your curls/waves clump for improved definition. Part your hair down the middle and use the pony tail holders to keep sides separate. On the first side, section out a 1 to 2 inch chunk of hair at your face and flat twist that section.</p>
<p>Gather the twist and loose hair into a Goody ponytail holder. Pull through twice, and only halfway through on the third time. You could also use bobby pins to secure the bun. Repeat steps with the other side. Allow to air dry unmanipulated to avoid frizzing. I lightly spritz my hair with a filtered water/conditioner mix, smooth, and then don my satin scarf.</p>
<p><strong><a href="http://www.curlynikki.com/2010/04/modified-princess-leia.html" target="_blank">More Curly Nikki pics &amp; styling details</a></strong></p>
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		<title>Natural Hair: The Radio &amp; TV Movement</title>
		<link>http://www.clutchmagonline.com/2010/05/natural-hair-the-radio-tv-movement/</link>
		<comments>http://www.clutchmagonline.com/2010/05/natural-hair-the-radio-tv-movement/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 15 May 2010 17:19:40 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Laquita Thomas-Banks</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[News.Gossip.Info]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[interview]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://clutchmagonline.com/?p=44739</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Over the last few years, natural hair wearers have witnessed the ‘back to natural’ movement growing on the Internet via YouTube,...]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-45101" title="Picture 540" src="http://clutchmagonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/Picture-540-640x203.png" alt="" width="640" height="203" /></p>
<p>Over the last few years, natural hair wearers have witnessed the ‘back to natural’ movement growing on the Internet via YouTube, Facebook, Fotki/Flickr albums, blogs and natural hair communities. It’s inevitable that the next stage would be for natural hair to hit the airwaves.</p>
<p>According to it’s website, The Nappturalite Radio Show hosted on BlogTalkRadio is dedicated to the love of all things related to Black natural hair care. The show’s host Dawn Yerger, and co-host Jaye Reliford, discuss natural hair topics, interview natural hair specialists and provide their listeners with product reviews and natural hair resources.</p>
<p>After The Nappturalite Radio Show airs, Jaye Reliford, hosts NappyMuseTV show. “NappyMuse” &#8211; an AS iS movement that celebrates and supports the inspirational life experience of the natural. An open live forum where discussions range from natural hair care to overall health and wellness. The Nappturalite Radio Show airs on Sunday evenings at 5pm CST/6pm EST. The “Nappy Muse” aftershow airs at 6:30 pm CST/7:30 pm EST.</p>
<blockquote><p>The hosts of Nappturalite Radio and Nappy Muse share with CLUTCH readers their inspiration behind the natural hair forums.</p></blockquote>
<p><strong>Dawn Yerger:</strong><br />
Nappturalite Radio was birthed out of the curiosity, fascination and love of natural Black hair. It is a collaboration between Jaye Reliford, my co-host, and I. We both already had radio shows of our own, but we wanted to do something related to our mutual love of natural Black hair and natural beauty.</p>
<p>As a co-host on the Jaye Today Radio Show (hosted by Jaye), I shared with the cast and the audience my experience of doing the &#8220;big chop&#8221;. As I shared my experience, I thought about how fun and inspirational it would be to share my new journey with others on a radio show dedicated to natural hair. Immediately, I asked Jaye, who had been a natural for 10 years, to join me as a co-host. The Nappturalite Radio Show was born.</p>
<p>Our show is constantly growing. We have celebrity guests, including singer Chrisette Michele, an online book club, and meet-up events coming up in the near future. We are also getting ready to launch a search for a male co-host. Nappturalite Radio is all about enjoying the natural hair journey, and we will continue to do that for our audience.</p>
<p><strong>Jaye Reliford on NappyMuse:</strong><br />
The name <a href="http://nappymuse.com" target="_blank">NappyMuse</a> came to me while I was meditating. I saw the most beautiful woman I had ever seen in my life. I believed she was Eve at first. She was naked and not ashamed, her skin was as if it was tar and gold had been mixed together to make her flesh. Her hair was like long wool, and her eyes were large and sweeping. Everything about her drew me in.</p>
<p>She walked through what looked like the Garden of Eden and everywhere she walked flowers began to grow in her footprints. When we reached the river, she turned to me and asked, &#8220;Aren&#8217;t we glad to be home?&#8221; She read my mind and answered my question before I could ask and said, &#8220;I am you&#8221;. She (the vision) disappeared and I was inspired that she was me!</p>
<p>I began to think about her/myself and all the beautiful women I listen to on YouTube. These women are muses to me, thus the word &#8220;muse&#8221; came to mind. Nappy is a word of controversy. A word that few can stand to bare, but it is so beautiful to me and it really cradles the word muse in a way that is so powerful.</p>
<p>I broke down the word into new words alphabetically. I came to this inspiration to be &#8220;Beautiful As iS&#8221; for every NappyMuse: Natural, Alluring, Proud, Poised, You. Magnificent, Unbelievable, Sensational and Elegant.</p>
<p>NappyMuseTV is a growing live vBlog or webcam chat/show . The show is designed to be a cross between The View, a Neo-Soul Lounge and TMZ. You are basically hanging out, and the focus is on you and your needs; and I mean everyone that comes. So, the more interaction and the more people that come equipped with webcams or mics, the better the show.</p>
<p>I am excited about our push to draw more international fellowship and interaction from the UK, Africa and other countries within the &#8220;naptural&#8221; community on the show. I am reaching out to &#8220;naptural&#8221; communities and countries that have the ability to tune into the show.</p>
<p>We are going to make people fall in love with the word nappy. Viewers can look forward to a segment I am working on called &#8220;Pursuit of Nappyness&#8221;. There will also be contests and challenges with prizes and incentives, and a few surprises.</p>
<p><strong>More Info:</strong><br />
<strong> Nappturalite Radio:</strong> <a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/nappturalite" target="_blank">www.blogtalkradio.com/nappturalite</a><br />
<strong> Nappturalite website:</strong> <a href="http://bit.ly/nappturaliteradio." target="_blank">http://bit.ly/nappturaliteradio.</a><br />
<strong> Nappy Muse:</strong> <a href="http://nappymuse.com" target="_blank">nappymuse.com</a></p>
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