Donna's Blog

Raise your hand if you are a product junkie. What is a product junkie you may ask? Look in the cabinet of anyone in the natural hair community, and if you find dozens of products, such as clarifying shampoos, moisturizing shampoos, conditioners, deep conditioners, masks, styling puddings, gels, curl creams, co-washes, oils, and anything in between…that my friend is a product junkie. My product shelf used to be loaded with ALL KINDS of hairstyling products, you name it. Now you may be wondering, what were all of those products I just named? Or what are they all for? It’s very common in the natural hair community that one’s wash and go may only consist of a conditioner and some type of oil. That’s it. Using only oils on your hair is not enough to keep your crown healthy and moisturized for the long haul (remember the hair grease days of the ‘80s and ‘90s?). Since it’s hard for natural hair to maintain moisture, you need to add a few more steps to your routine to get the job done.  Achieving the perfect wash day is often the compilation of many different products, and there are a few very beneficial and justifiable reasons for it. Most products usually serve one or two specific purposes, as most wash days/styling require several elements, so using a variety of different products is often necessary.  Now let’s talk about some essential products for building a healthy hair regimen. Every regimen shares a few essential components, and although your hair type and concerns may alter your hair care routine in some way, here are a few basic steps that every person can benefit from.   1. Cleanse Cleansing is a balance between removing things like dirt, product residue, and dead skin cells without stripping the hair of its natural oils. Clarifying shampoos work to remove buildup from the hair - it’s like a reset button for your hair. On the other hand, a regular shampoo has mild cleansing agents with more emphasis on moisturizing your hair and making it shiny rather than clean. The trick is to alternate between the two, ideally using a good clarifying shampoo once a week to reset your hair and purify your scalp. 2. Condition Conditioner is meant to stabilize the pH of the hair after shampooing. Conditioning benefits include moisturizing, added shine, detangling, and frizz reduction.  Deep Conditioner or Repair Mask: A deep conditioner, or a repair mask, can be used in place of a conditioner after shampooing. This is designed to be left on your hair longer, then rinsed out completely. These will not only stabilize the hair’s pH, but work to rebuild compromised protein structure, increase hair’s elasticity and enhance moisture retention overall. These products are especially great for chemically damaged or dry hair. Deep conditioners or repair masks should be used weekly on damaged hair and hair that is just beginning a new healthy hair regimen. Leave-in Conditioner: A leave-in is meant to be applied after your hair is freshly shampooed and conditioned,  and doesn’t need to be washed out. This will help further detangle, reduce frizz, and maintain moisture throughout the day. A leave-in conditioner is also designed to prime your hair before you begin styling.   3. Moisturize To add further hydration and protection from dryness and breakage to the hair, you may want to use a styling cream that does everything from softening and defining to moisturizing and volumizing.  4. Seal When it comes to oil, a little goes a long way. Oils can enhance your hair’s natural oils and lock in moisture and strengthen your hair strands. Donna's Recipe Strength Hair Oil is a dual hair and scalp oil to add shine, seal in moisture and help scrunch out the crunch for soft, defined and frizz-free curls. 5. Gel These provide hold to your hair, from a light hold to a super strong one, depending on the product you use. Gels can also hold in moisture, enhance and define curls and control frizz.  6. Treatments Scalp treatment: An exfoliating scalp treatment can unclog follicles, stimulate circulation and calm issues like scalp itchiness. Protein treatment: Frizzy or damaged hair may need an extra boost from protein. These monthly treatments fill in gaps/holes in the cuticle, strengthening and smoothing strands. Experiment to find the one that works for you. 7. Tips I know it sounds cliché, but consistency is key. You’re not going to notice dramatic results overnight — although the effects of masks and certain styling products can be noticed instantly, it takes time for your hair to get used to new products. When it comes to the frequency of use with products, it’s best to consult a professional. There are no hard rules for how often you should use each product. For example, some people wash their hair three times a week, while others wash only once a week. And some do it even less. When in doubt, ask a professional for personalized advice targeted to the products you use and the needs of your hair. Your individual hair needs will naturally change over time. There’s a saying that hair changes texture every 7 years. Unlike most of the rumors floating around the internet, this one does have an element of truth behind it. Noticing these changes and responding appropriately can keep your hair looking healthy. A good rule of thumb is to swap products as the seasons change. In the summer months, you may want to choose more lightweight and anti-frizz formulas to help hair in the face of humidity. As the winter months arrive, you may need to opt for products with extra hydrating properties.  Which products are in your hair care regimen? Share with us below.

Hey Family!  Remember those big dreams and plans you used to have way back when? Let’s talk about them. It’s so easy to get distracted or discouraged, especially when life throws endless curveballs your way or when we let the opinions of others in. Before you know it, you wake up one day asking yourself where did the time go and regretting the things you didn’t do. Maybe your confidence about pursuing these dreams have been shaken or maybe you feel it’s too late. Well, I want to remind you that as long as you still have air in your lungs, it’s never too late! Those dreams and plans can still be realized! It may look a little different now than it did back then and maybe you’ll have to tweak a couple things, but there’s still time.  One good thing that comes from being delayed is, you now have more wisdom and knowledge. You have fresh eyes and life experiences to see your dreams through. You may also have more access to resources. You don’t need to make it all happen in one go, but you do need to take just one step.  Grab a journal, and write that dream down.  I know from experience that looking at your entire dream can be overwhelming and anxiety inducing. So underneath your written dream, I want you to write one thing that you can accomplish in the next day(s), week(s), or within one month (don’t allow yourself to go beyond a month). It could be something as simple as making a phone call, doing some research, or assembling a team of trusted people - to something as big as applying for that loan, looking for a new job that will allow you the freedom to work on your dream, writing that manuscript, or starting therapy to figure out what’s stopping you from pursuing those dreams in the first place. Nothing is off the table. Once you’ve accomplished that first step, check it off, and write down another one.  Put that step on your calendar.  Give yourself a deadline and make it happen! Find a trusted friend or mentor to hold you accountable.  If you have someone expecting an update from you, you’re more likely to make it happen.  share your dream or plans, but make sure it is with someone who will encourage and push you. Someone who will believe in you.  Surround yourself with people who are where you want to be.  Watch the TedTalks, go to the conferences, or YouTube “how to”. Reach out to people on social media. If you can see it, you can absolutely achieve it.  Remember that every setback is a set up for something even better.  Don’t give up. Try again or attack from a different angle.  Lastly, HAVE FUN.  Your dreams should be something you enjoy doing - something you can be proud of that gives you purpose and your life meaning. It will be harder to accomplish them if you are dreading getting up each day to go after them. It won’t be easy, but it should be enjoyable.  Don’t be afraid to dream big. I’ve heard time and time again, “if your dreams don’t scare you, they aren’t big enough.” Aim high, because regardless of if you make it to what you envisioned or not, I promise you, you’ll be much further than where you are now. Be brave, tune out the naysayers and your negative inner dialogue. Affirm yourself, take a leap of faith, and start now.  What is one dream that you are committing to taking steps to actualizing? Let us know below! And once you complete your first step, come back and write “I Did It!”. See you on the other side of your dream cousins!  XO,  Ashley 

Yes hun, we see you in your fresh Faux Locs, Box Braids and even your Butterfly Locs. And wait, you even have your baby hair laid! You go girl!  Now I know you may be thinking, “I am not messing my braids up so, I am going to hold out as long as I can before washing it”. News Flash! Skipping and holding out washing your braids can reverse the benefits of you having braids in the first place. We tend to get braids due to the seasons, convenience, versatility, low maintenance and of course to protect our natural hair. Keep in mind your goal is to give your hair a break and allow it to experience growth. Washing your hair in a protective style should not be a chore but a cherished moment. If you dread washing your braids, keep these tips in mind. Remember, it is all about the scalp. Your scalp health is everything! Just because your hair is braided does not give you license to skip washday.  There is no better time to take care of your scalp than when it is in a protective style. Why? Because your scalp is exposed, unlike when you do not have braids, you have direct access to your scalp and hair follicles. Wash your braids every two to three weeks. Waiting longer can cause a stressed scalp, which can lead to build-up of products, sweat, dirt, dandruff, dead skin cells, and bacteria that clogs your pores causing pimples on your scalp. (Are you heading to the shower to wash your hair?) In addition, when we have buildup on the scalp, it also leads to itchiness. Moreover, where there is an itch…we scratch or pat. Doing so also leads to a stressed scalp causing it to become inflamed and painful. Keep in mind when you wash your braids, you do not have to use expensive products. More than likely your brains are synthetic. Concentrate on using your more expensive hair products on your scalp where it is needed. If you find your braids are dull, dusty or look damaged, using an inexpensive “all in one” shampoo and conditioner will do just fine.   The best product to use while your hair is in its protective style, is “Water”. We all know that warm water on your scalp will make your toes curl. Every now and then, while in the shower let the warm water hit your scalp. Gently message your scalp and rub your braids. This will rinse away the daily dust and dirt. Keep your scalp healthy by using Donna’s Recipe Hair Oil daily especially in between wash and rinse days. Even with proper care, most people tend to keep this style for about six to eight weeks. To keep your protective style last awhile make sure to cleanse, care for, and dry your braids regularly. So on your self-care days while you are exhaling allow your scalp to breathe and exhale too.

Cream? Gel? Or both? Or both? That is the question. Both of these hair care products are designed to cater towards natural hair needs. Several factors come into play when deciding which product to use for your hair, including density, width, curl pattern and the porosity of your hair. Choosing between a cream or a gel will depend not only on these factors, but also on your desired hair goals. What are your desired hair goals? Frizz control Defined curls Elongation  Hydration/Moisture Volume Extend a style Let’s first talk about what each product does… Creams  Creams, typically, are less of a styling product and more of a hair care product. They provide moisture, definition, and shine. They also help to keep hair healthy, eliminate frizz, and moisturize from the inside out. Creams are soft, light, and don't feel greasy or stiff when applied to hair. Creams also tend to have a lighter hold and soften your hair while giving volume, so if extending your hair style is what you’re looking for, try adding a gel.   Gels Gels have come a long way since the crunchy-curl days of the ’90s and 2000s and have moved from merely providing hold to also providing moisture. Whether your hair is straight, curly or coily, gels are generally used to hold and set the hair. They provide shape and hold to a style by forming a film on the hair that creates physical bonds between hair strands, holding them in place, which helps create the clumping effect.  Pro Tip: Not all gels and creams will mix well together. Try experimenting on your hand first. Mix one pump of each product on your hand. Here are signs that your products will work together: Blends easily Forms into one product Milky or clear color Feels smooth and creamy Here are signs that the products don’t work together: Blends easily Mixture has a thick, chunky texture Separated and not blended Mixture dries up   Consider What Your Curls Need One of the best ways to go about this large task is to consider your hair needs.  Texture and Volume. Make sure you know your specific hair characteristics (porosity, density, curl pattern) so that you know how much product to use. After all, you want to add texture and volume to your hair, not weigh them down or obscure them. Define, Extend a Style. For styles that are longer-lasting and moisturized, you will more than likely need a cream and gel. Frizz. If it’s frizz that’s bothering you, then a gel and curl cream will allow you to go outside when it’s humid. This combination will make it easy to manipulate your locks and give them that perfect, soft finishing touch. Hydration. The natural oil produced by your scalp (sebum) is supposed to travel down your hair to keep it moisturized and protected. The twists and bends in natural hair make that journey a long, difficult one. Sebum typically doesn’t make it to the ends of curls, making our hair feel more dry. If hydration is what your hair needs, go with a curl cream or defining butter. It is the perfect solution to hydrate the hair from the inside out. Based on the information and tips that has been provided, you should now be able to decide whether you need to use the cream, gel or both. Have the most amazing day!

Hello there cousins! Having trouble growing your natural hair? Does everybody else seem to grow hair quicker compared to you? You're definitely not alone in your struggle. Many women and men have different hair textures that grow at different speeds. Some have hair that is even more inclined towards breakage and dryness, which totally impacts growth! It may seem hard, but we all can enjoy healthy hair growth. Our lovely cousin Arnita has put together a fun and simple list full of helpful tips for growing natural hair that you can try at home! With proper care, maintenance, and an excellent hair care routine, you can enjoy longer, stronger, natural hair. Here are some hair care tips to help you reach your hair growth goals:

Hey Family, Ashley here! It’s that time of the year again. The weather is warming up, spring is slowly rubbing her eyes awake, and after defrosting from the winter blues, you might have the urge to pack up and get out of town for a bit.  It’s traveling season and one thing we cannot do, is assume you’ll find what you need for your hair texture while on your trip, especially if we’re talking international! For those of you who will be partaking this year, here are some must-haves to pack before take off, that will help protect your natural hair.  Shampoo and Conditioner First up, we have the dynamic duo. Whether you’re hitting the pool, diving into the ocean, or hiking along a beautiful mountainside, you will need to wash your hair at some point (yes this goes for protective styles as well). The last thing you want is for chlorine or salt water to sit in your hair and dry your hair out. Yes, hotels provide shampoo and conditioner, but it’s usually not made for all hair types. So definitely pack your favorites or pour some into travel containers.   The Triple Threat If you are taking a much longer trip, at some point your hair will need a refresher or rehydration. In this case, use the “Triple Threat”: leave-in conditioner, a hair butter or cream, and your favorite styling gel. You can mix the leave-in with water and use that to give your hair some much needed moisture. You could also do a full routine of washing your hair and applying your leave-in conditioner, cream or butter, and styling gel - in that order! After this, you can do single strand twists for a twist out look or rock your wash and go. Hair Diffuser Though many hotels and Airbnb’s offer a blow dryer for your use, they don’t always get the job done. Packing your own hair diffuser attachment would cut down on drying time. This is perfect for wavy to super coily hair textures.   Silk Scarf and Bonnet These two items are a no brainer! Unless you want frizzy snagged strands in the morning, you better scarf and bonnet up. No matter your hair texture, many people believe this is an important step. Consider creating a pineapple updo (a high ponytail with your silk scarf wrapped around) and then place the bonnet over the remaining exposed hair. This way, you can double the protection without losing your scarf while you sleep.    Hair Pins There will come a time on your trip when your hair will need pinning. If you only have a couple minutes to do something with your hair, pins are a must have. You can quickly do a low slicked back bun or pin your twists for your twist-out up into an elegant style for dinner on the beach, if you aren’t ready to take them out yet. Either way hair pins are essential. Headwrap or Wig it! At some point you may get tired of keeping up with your tresses. Being able to plop the wig on and snatch it off at the end of the day without worrying about much maintenance, was exactly a stress reliever. You can simply pack your wig in a suitcase for the trip. If wigs aren’t your thing, a great alternative is a beautiful headwrap. You can find so many creative videos online in the many ways you can style them. Just wrap and go! Oil Of course we can’t forget our Donna’s Recipe Strength Hair Oil! An oil is super important to seal in moisture after applying the Triple Threat mentioned above or just to keep your scalp healthy and protected from itching, flaking, and the elements. If you’re rocking a protective style, wig, or showing out your wash and go, make sure that at the end of each day you show your scalp some love by oiling it with Donna’s Recipe oil.  So if you’re looking to travel this season, whether you’re letting your natural hair do its thing, rocking braids, or wigging it -  consider your activities, the length of time you’ll be on your trip, and be sure to check the weather in advance to make the most informed decision on what you should pack to protect your tresses. Happy and safe travels cousins!  

Do you know you are one action or thought away from feeling happy?  Yes!  Happiness is an emotional state from having feelings of joy, satisfaction, contentment and fulfillment.  If you woke up this morning not feeling happy ...honey, that's ok.  We are going to change that....yes!!  Try out one of these happy hacks and let us know in the comments if you felt happiness after doing it.  I already know but read on to pick which happy hack you're going to do. 1) Hug someone for a minute Did you know hugging makes you happier?  Well, if you didn't know, go ahead and give someone a long extended hug and you will see.  It spikes our oxytocin levels. Oxytocin is a chemical in our bodies that is also known as the  “cuddle hormone”. This is because its levels rise when we hug someone. Oxytocin is associated with happiness and less stress.  Let's cheer to that.  A good hug is always good for the soul and heart. 2) Dance Yes!  Dancing makes you happy, honey!  When we dance our brain releases endorphins, hormones which can trigger neurotransmitters that create a feeling of happiness, fun, peace and love. Music and dance invigorate the sensory and motor circuits of our brain.  So, that's enough to get you up to turn on the music and dance!  Come on!! Let's move!   3) Rub your pet The touch between you and your pet can have therapeutic benefits for both of you all. In humans, petting a dog can trigger the release of the bonding hormone oxytocin.  And we already, spoke about oxytocin and its benefits. Rubbing your pet's fur can also lower your heart rate and blood pressure.  That's enough to take a break and rub your baby pet. 4) Make your bed This simple action item can be overlooked but making your bed can improve your overall happiness and well-being.  Making your bed can actually make you happier and more productive. It gives you a sense of accomplishment and improves your mood instantly.  5) Smile for 20 seconds Smiling impacts the way you feel.  This is not up for debate.  It's only 20 seconds go ahead a smile for 20 seconds and guarantee you will keep smiling after the 20 seconds are up.  Why is that?  Because you have communicated to your brain that you are in a good mood and it followed suit.  Yes, very good! 6) Put your favorite song on repeat Listening to your favorite song gives you confidence because you know every word.  It's also usually your favorite song because there are happy memories tied to that song.  Allow your mind to go to that happy place by playing the song on repeat.   Now, there you go..six happy hacks that are quick to do.  It will make you feel better in a pair of seconds.  Go ahead and try one or more today and leave in the comments how you felt afterwards.  Share this article with someone who this would help as well.  Love you!   Remember to stay in stock of your Donna's Recipe.  You know Donna doesn't play about our consistency.    

You're doing it again !!! One thing has gone wrong and here you go with "Don't nothing ever go my way!" One thing. Everything isn't going wrong.  You're just having a moment.  It may be a speed bump because it's time to slow down.  Maybe you're at a stop sign because it's time to look both ways before you keep going. But everything isn't going wrong. So stop that negative talk. Stop that tantrum.  You're ok.  Things are fine and recognize this is only a moment.  Take a moment to pause, focus and say why did this happen? And what can I do to prevent it from happening again or to proceed with caution and figure it out.  You got this! Now, gone about your business and have yourself the most amazing day, but even if you can't don't you dare go messing up nobody else's! Now, Donna don't want you stressing out and taking pauses on your Donna's Recipe.  Are we still on this healthy hair journey together? Yes!  Get into your Donna's Recipe!

Imagine this: you just worked all day, cooked dinner, cleaned up, did laundry, you then finally have some time to take a shower, and it’s getting late...What’s the last thing you want to do right now?  If “dry my hair” was your answer, because you’re simply too tired, then you’re not alone. Over the years, there have been common reasons as to why you shouldn’t go to sleep with wet hair. This brings up the common debate of whether it’s safe or not. Let’s take a closer look at what really happens when you sleep with wet hair. Will I Catch a Cold?  The number one question. Contrary to what your mother told you growing up, no, you won’t catch a cold. Colds result from coming into contact with a strain of viruses. We catch colds from a virus, not from being physically cold. That being said, here is what sleeping with wet hair will actually do. Your Hair May Look a Little Crazy in the Morning Let’s face it, air drying your hair is not preferable for everyone. It’s always a hit or a miss of what the end result will be. Some people prefer a little heat to boost their hair styling the way they want. When sleeping with wet hair, there’s a strong possibility of waking up to frizz, friction and tangles, especially if you toss and turn in your sleep. Keep in mind that wherever your head touches the pillow may cause uneven drying and flattened looser curl patterns. Once the sun comes up, one side may be wetter or curlier than the other. Constant Sleeping With Wet Hair Can Lead to Breakage Something to keep in mind is that your hair is at its weakest state when it’s wet. Wet hair swells, causing the cuticle (exterior) to open up, which leaves strands stretchy, brittle, and prone to breakage. In that sense, it takes less force to break the hair when it’s wet versus dry. Tendencies such as sleeping on top of your hair, moving around in your sleep, and making it a habit to sleep with wet hair will contribute to damage over time.  You’re More Likely to Get a Fungal Infection If you deal with dandruff on the regular, it’s strongly suggested to not sleep with wet hair. Dandruff is triggered by an overabundance of a yeast-like fungus (Malassezia) that is always present on your scalp. Like most microorganisms, fungus and bacteria thrive in warm, damp environments and can cause a variety of scalp issues like dandruff and folliculitis. How’s that for motivation to start drying your hair before sleep time?  However, if you are still certain to sleep with wet hair, here’s what you should do... Use a Leave-In Give your strands a dose of leave-in hydration. This helps to lock-in moisture, enhance your natural texture, and smooth frizz and flyaways. Towel Dry Use a microfiber towel or cotton t-shirt after your shower to soak up the extra water. The specialized material in the towel is gentle on your hair and cuts down on (air & blow) drying time. Air Dry First This allows your hair to eliminate excess moisture before you snooze. Hair should not be soaking through your pillow, but instead should be only lightly damp. Shower Earlier Yes, it sounds easier said than done. Instead of waiting until night time when you’re already tired, try washing your hair in the morning. Two birds, one stone. You get your shower out of the way earlier, therefore your hair will be 100% dry by the time you go to sleep.   Mix it Up To help avoid as much damage as possible, don’t go to bed with wet hair every single night. Change it up by blow drying one night, plopping another, and giving yourself enough time to air dry the next.  Quick Shot If you have the time, lightly go over your hair with a blow dryer on a low to medium setting to quickly remove moisture. Just 5 to 10 minutes will make a huge difference.  Protective Styling Instead of a tight topknot, wear a loose bun or braid to minimize tension and friction. As a plus, wake up to beautiful, wavy texture with little to no effort. Sleep With Silk Try silk scrunchies for a gentle and comfortable option that you can use to protect your hair and help keep it damage free. Even consider sleeping on a silk pillowcase, which is less drying and minimizes friction on the hair. Wash Your Bedding Regularly This probably comes as no surprise, but it's a good habit to wash your sheets and pillowcases at least once a week. Doing so helps you minimize contact with pesky microorganisms that can lead to hair and skin conditions.    Since every hair texture is different, you have to decide  whether or not to sleep with wet hair. Some may find it gives their hair a lovely texture or saves them precious time. It’s important to keep in mind the state of your hair and scalp and how they react when you sleep with wet hair. Keep in mind, genetics, frequency of heat styling, color treating, and the overall condition of your hair are factors of whether or not your hair is resilient enough. So, if you notice breakage or scalp discomfort, then sleeping with wet hair may not be for you.  Tell us, do you sleep with wet hair? What are your best tips for doing so?