Where do I begin?

I just found this blog and I haven't been able to leave it yet.I must say a big ole THANK YOU to CurlyNikki. I haven't tried any of the ideas yet, but I have big plans for my weekend. I want to try the henna-ing process. I have been natural for about 10 years. Recently, however, I have developed a very fickle relationship with my hair when it is in its curly state. My biggest problem is fairy knots. I believe this is the appropriate term. Basically, one strand of hair will have curled back on itself and formed a knot, and sometimes on one strand there is more than one. Not only does it make my hair feel rough and dry, but it leads to split ends. I have tried soooo many things to prevent this. I had reached a point where I thought this is just what happens to my hair when in it is in its natural state.

So,during the cool months, I just get my hair roller set and lightly flat ironed at the root in the salon and wear it straight, basically. Doing this has allowed me to gain some of the length I lost trying to wear it curly due to split ends and such. However, because I live in DC, each summer the straight way is not an option. The humidity is horrendous here. I also miss my hair curly. Honestly, life is easier and more carefree when it is curly. I don't worry about sweating, the rain, going swimming....you know.

So, I had decided to just wear it in a bun all summer. I mean it seemed to be the only way to stave off the fairy knots and funky ends. THENNNN I found this site.

So I will try it your way CurlyNikki. I want to first try the henna-ing. So my first question to all is...
-Is the only way to acquire the appropriate henna through an online purchase?
-If not (and you live in or around the DC metropiltan area) where?

Next question:
-After you have twisted your hair in the shower and it is product free, do you then undo the twists, apply the product, and then re-twist?
-If not, someone please explain.

Next question:
-What exactly is wrong with the conditioners that have wheat protein?
-Or I have proffered the wrong impression and there is a different protein that I should be wary of?

Okay that is all for now.

Thank you in advance for your help. And again, so glad I found this site

Peace

Kionikicks

first of all welcome!

I can't answer some of your questions, but I did want to address the protein issue. My hair personally LOVES protein, and all kinds of it.

I think the best place for you to start is to learn about YOUR hair texture. I'm not talking about 3c/4a/4b/6z or whatever, but about the thickness of your individual strands (fine, medium or coarse) and the porosity (high, normal, or low). When you determine these factors, you'll best be able to figure out a product regimen that works for YOU.

My hair is extremely thick 4a, but my strands are super fine and I have low porosity, which is why I'm heavy on the water, moisturizers, protein and havent touched a comb in months

Good luck in your journey! We're here to help!

Kionikicks- CN has a tutorial on how she does her twist and curl. You can also youtube it and watch several people.

I like Chisellcouture, African Export, Kimmaytube, lexiwiththecurls to name a few.