magazine
SHORT HAIR, DON’T CARE:
w o r l d !
CUTTING WITH CONFIDENCE!
i n
t h e
UNITY IN THE COMMUNITY: supporting our own
m a g a z i n e
Pop Culture vs. The Natural Teen
h a i r
REVISITING THE BLOWOUT
n a t u r a l
BLOWUP!
SPECIAL ALERT:
# 1
DANGER IN A BOTTLE, THE BABY BRAND DEBACLE YOU MAY NOT HAVE HEARD ABOUT
t h e
NATURAL
STYLE Beautiful. Bold. Natural. You!
Volume 3 Spring 2012 issue
SPRING makeup trends! SWEET TO SEXY SPRING HAIR FOR ALL OCCASIONS!
AND MUCH MORE!! find us online at naturalstylemagazine.com
like this wallpaper? Download cool wallpapers, get great tips and tons of style ideas at
naturalstylemagazine.com
C
ONTENTS pics & tips: 10
Pictured: Model, mom and more! Tajh Sutton showcases looks for all occasions.
living naturally: OSHA reveals more product hazards associated with Dominican blow-out styling
9
caring for princesses tresses
our
Safer products for skin and hair
14
The Teen Scene
The natural teen vs, the media.
15
short hair, don’t care!
jewel afrika:
Cutting with confidence
Statement accessories with messages of pride.
34 shop talk
IN EVERY ISSUE: 5 Community News &
Internship tips for college students!
hair for each occasion
56 brag book
27 Hot Styles considered
collection of seasonal style choices with guest stylist denise crump
19
Working out with natural hair
The workout that can burn more than 800 calories per hour while you’re sitting down!
20
healthy hair food
48
Natural News and events
18
Is chemically colored hair natural?
Spring trends from top stylemakers
Events
Welcome to NAT-U
Nat Chat
32
21
the blow out blow up!
23 artist aprill hogue illustrates her love of natural hairitage!
fashion:
8
spring 2012 makeup trends
Easy spring recipes that provide nutrients that help grow hair
29 Buzz Five See what we’re buzzing about
30 The Mail Bag Reader questions answered by guest expert tarsa scott
45
co ve r & i n se t art : mod el tajh sutton as captured by cipriana thompson of soulfully speaking Photos; Hair By Lorin Michele, Wardrobe Styled by LocXurious, makeup by Gloria Watkins.
Transition Tips
Information for soon to be naturals
4
c e l e b r a t i n g
t h e
n a t u r a l
y o u !
for single issues and subscriptions, visit us online
naturalstylemagazine.com The #1 natural haircare and lifestyle magazine in the world!
CARING FOR OUR PRINCESSES TRESSES
A safe solution: Cara B’s product line has been awarded the coveted Natural Products Association certification and the only personal care product line specifically formulated for ethnic children to earn such a distinction.
After years of complaints, baby brand giant Johnson & Johnson agrees to remove carcinogenic ingredients from its baby products. is it too little too late? Since 2009, numerous warning reports, activist groups and citizen alliances have played a role in forcing Johnson & Johnson to change the ingredients in many of their skin and haircare products designed for babies. Finally, in November 2011, Johnson & Johnson issued a letter to the Campaign for Safe Products stating that every product that they make is safe to use.
Petrolatum, often used in moisturizing creams and oils, is derived from petroleum and is linked to potentially cancer-causing im pur ities; petrolatum is banned in There are still some companies that care European Union cosmetics. about their customers. Companies that put baby’s health and wellbeing first. Mineral oil makes up 100% of some popular baby oils; mineral oil is derived One such company is Cara B Naturally. We from petroleum, linked to potentially cancerdiscovered Cara B Naturally online after causing impurities, and known to dehydrate researching alternative grooming products the skin and inhibit the production of natural for baby’s in the wake of the Johnson & oils.
EXERCISE YOUR RIGHT TO CHOOSE
Johnson fallout.
Have you checked your labels lately?
However, there are still brands sold by Johnson & Johnson that contain potentially dangerous ingredients. Johnson & Johnson says they will eliminate all ingredients of concern over the next few years.
We were pleasantly surprised to find a company that is willing to educate and support the needs of moms everywhere.
The Cara B difference
THINGS THAT MAKE YOU GO HMMM?
Cara B points parents to the EPA’s list of common chemicals in skin and hair care products noting that some of the following chemicals are found in many popular baby brands:
In the U.S., Canada, China, Indonesia and Australia, Johnson & Johnson's Baby Shampoo is still being sold containing quaternium-15. However, product labels indicate that it isn't contained in versions of the products sold in eight other countries: Denmark, Finland, Japan, the Netherlands, Norway, South Africa, Sweden and the U.K. The ingredient appears to have been omitted from the ingredients although these countries don’t have any environmental restrictions on quaternium.
Cara B Naturally encourages you to educate yourself
“There
are many other children's products that claim to be natural, but still include chemicals and synthetic ingredients. When we say we're all-natural, we mean it. Cara B Naturally products are free of parabens, petrolatum, phthalates, sulfates, mineral oil, artificial fragrances and preservatives. As proof of our commitment to using only natural ingredients, our products have been awarded the coveted Natural Products Association certification – the only personal care product line specifically formulated for ethnic children to earn such a distinction.”
Parabens are believed to mimic the WHERE CAN YOU FIND hormone estrogen and, according to the US CARA B NATURALLY? Environmental Protection Agency, parabens can interfere with the function of the body's Cara B. Naturally is sold at select CVS stores as well as key Target locations. endocrine system. Learn more about Cara B Naturally or shop Sulfates, commonly used in Shampoos, are online at https://www.mycarab.com. believed to mimic the hormone estrogen and can cause severe eye damage. Phthalates, have been shown to cause damage to the liver, kidneys, lungs, and reproductive system; pht halates are commonly used in lotions in the United States, but have been banned in European
SPRING 2012 MAKEUP TRENDS
lip tip: g
Photo by: Hamsterman
Photo by:Timothy Passmore
e t
r e a d y ! !
Red returns to lips everywhere this spring. True reds, metallic reds, deep reds and even reds with a hint of sparkle will grace lips this season.
! !
HOT TIPS: #1 Since red lipstick tends to bleed, line the lips prior to application to avoid runs.
"
#2 If you can’t find the red that‘s right for you, try custom blending a mix of reds until you achieve the desired shade. 10
UNIT Y IN THE COMMUNIT Y PROFILE
JEWEL AFRIKA DESIGNS
style with meaning
The beautiful Tameka HornesMathews of Jewel Afrika Designs wears “Afrika Rising” earring from her line.
“So often!I see my!beautiful sisters wearing jewelry made and inspired!by other cultures. I felt there was a need to create something that was for us, by us that reflected the Afrikan in us.”
!
NS: First of all, we love your designs. W hat made you start Jewel Afrika Designs?! ! Ta m e k a : Je w e l A f r i k a Designs! was! created! while on my quest to find jewelry that embraced my love for self.! I wanted to create jewelry that was a true
reflection of who we are as a people and what we stand for as a culture. So often! I see my! beautiful sisters wearing jewelry made and inspired!by other cultures. I felt there was a need to create something that was for us, by us that reflected that Afrikan in all of us.! !
NS:What kind of jewelry do you specialize in? ! Tameka: We specialize in Afrocentric wooden and acrylic pieces that reflect and empower the Afrikan community and jewelry that makes a statement without saying a word.
A
R
T
I
S
T
APRILL HOGUE
pays homage to her natural hairitage
Hogue’s artistic edge inspires...
When did you realize that experiences, and ideas in order people is the driving force you were an artist? to connect with others. behind my artwork. I was inspired by the art of storytelling at a very young age. Listening to stories, reading them, watching them play out in films and theatre, and eventually letting my imagination run and creating my own. I love creating i m a g e r y t h a t d e l i ve r s a narrative. That passion for creating narratives through my work has continued ever since my early childhood. I enjoy illustrating my thoughts,
W hat inspires you to We love your natural hair create your art? illustrations. (Why) do you think it's important for My artwork is inspired by little girls of color to see many various components. My images similar to their life experiences, the people in own in print? my life, other artists’ work and their dedication to their craft I think it is very important for all inspire me to push myself to little girls of color to see create my work. The desire to images of their own in print. express myself, and using my Images that will reinforce w o r k a s a m e a n s t o positive thinking in terms of communicate and reach out to how they view themselves. I
HOT STYLES! HOT STYLES! HOT STYLES! HOT STYLES! HOT STYLES! HOT STYLES! HOT STYLES! HOT STYLES! HOT STYLES! HOT STYLES!
Hair artist Denise Crump of
NaturaleeMee
takes over our spring HOT STYLES portfolio. She showcases a few of her favorite Spring looks and shares her philosophy about natural haircare.
On Denise: A modernized ponytail complete with accessories and just the right amount of “hang time” creates a fun look.
HOW SHE BEGAN I have been doing natural hair since I was 8 years old. I started out doing hair for family members. Now I am honored to be a part of the wonderful Fabulocs team among other natural stylists.
T EXTURE T EASE Perfect bantu knots combine with beautiful curls to create an excellent contrast of color, texture and balance. Hair: Denise Crump; Makeup: Carolyn Edwards Holden; Photo: Abby “B” Rufai
C REAM
S UGAR
&
Simply the sweetest. This beautiful blend of flat coils and raised coils come together to create a marvelous mane.
HER PHILOSOPHY ON STYLING I love to show everyone that natural hair is beautiful. Every woman or a man that I style must leave my chair feeling better than they did when they arrived. When people see my clients, the first thing they should want is my card or contact info. I love the creativity that I can express through natural hair while doing different styles. Each client has a different need so the options are numerous. It’s exciting to see that more people are beginning to realize that natural hair is not a passing phase; it is a movement in a new direction..
Hair: Denise Crump; Makeup: Carolyn Edwards Holden; Photo: Abby “B” Rufai
S UNNY
DELIGHTS
Beautiful curls kissed with color create a crown of ringlets that spill over onto flat twists.
Models: Antone' Ross; Hair: Denise Crump; Makeup: Carolyn Edwards Holden; Photo: Abby “B” Rufai
HOT STYLES! HOT STYLES! HOT STYLES! HOT STYLES! HOT STYLES! HOT STYLES! HOT STYLES! HOT STYLES! HOT STYLES! HOT STYLES!
NATURALSTYLE’S BUZZ FIVE
WE’RE TALKING ABOUT ... #1
MAYA’S IDEAS
Maya Shea Penn is a 12-year -old Naturalista, Entrepreneur, Artist, Animator, Philanthropist, Designer, Illustrator, and Writer. Maya created her business, Maya’s Ideas, at the tender age of 8 years old.
The beautiful, megaafro wearing Nimat releases her third CD for listeners looking for a soulful blend of melodies.
Maya designs and creates handmade original ecofriendly clothing and accessories including hair ornaments for weddings and special occasions. Maya’s talent and business acumen has been recognized nationally by Forbes as well as The Huffington Post. This little lady has not only profited from her business, she’s shared her earnings with charities giving 10% of her earnings to those in need. Support this budding business woman online at http://www.etsy.com/shop/mayasideas
#2
NIMAT
Singer, songwriter and musician Nimat has wowed us with her third CD release “Growing Pains”. Rising above comparison with a unique, soulful sound that refuses the limitation of genre, Nimat delivers a captivating harmony that nestles in the pleasurable richness of great music. Writing is a profound passion Nimat has possessed since the tender age of 12 when she began her musical career. She has written over 250 songs including all of the music on her independent, debut CD, “I Still Need You” which has sold multiple units nationally and internationally. If you’re in the mood for some good music, check out the CD at nimat.net or search for it on cdbaby.com
#3
THE 2012 PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION
Once again it’s time to exercise your right to choose the leader of our nation. Hard to believe it’s been nearly four years since the last Presidential election. Incumbent President Obama faces a deciding electorate along with Republican contenders Mitt Romney, Rick Santorum, Newt Gingrich, Ron Paul and several other less known hopefuls. Voters will no doubt consider key issues such as the economy, employment and other kitchen table topics before the decision. The coming election has us talking because we’ve already witnessed numerous gaffs and listened to hot button issues which have resulted in endless political discourse and sometimes even fodder for mainstream media. We’re taking notes, comparing agendas and researching facts. We suggest you do the same because November 2012 will be here sooner than you think! continued on pg. 31
F R O M
1. What are loc extensions?! Loc extensions are an alternative method for anyone considering locs that may want to shortcut the beginning stages of the locking process. Loc extensions are permanent, undetectable and can be added to locked, natural or relaxed hair.
R E A D E R S
Q&A T
with master loctician
2. So, can loc extensions be added to increase the length of existing locs or are they strictly for newly cultivated locs? A c t u a l l y, o n e c a n a c h i e v e beautiful natural looking locs in a matter of hours.! Loc extensions are created using human hair to extend existing locs to any desired length or can be started on loose natural or relaxed hair provided you have at least 2 Your loc extensions can begin to inches of new growth. loc with your hair within 2-3 months 3. Once loc extensions are installed, ! how are they maintained?! 6. Who is a good candidate for loc Loc extensions are very delicate extensions?! during the first couple of weeks Anyone who wants to: and extreme care should be taken when maintaining your • avoid the short stage e x t e n s i o n s. E x t e n s i o n s a re • achieve instant length maintained like natural locs. I • ease difficulty in transitioning recommend maintenance once • extend current set of locs every 4-5 weeks as the new • combat thinning breaking locs g rowth comes in using a • achieve a fuller look combination of wrapping with traditional palm rolling or ! interlocking methods. 7. What are some things that people 4. Can loc extensions be colored?! Although human hair is used to create loc extensions, in most cases the hair is chemically treated and has various reactions to color. I suggest seeking the expertise of a professional colorist before applying any color to your loc extensions. One may c o n s i d e r u s i n g p re - c o l o re d human hair to obtain the desired color. 5. How long does it take a loc extension to mature?!
Loc extension
THE MAIL BAG
Q U E S T I O N S
should prepare for during the growth and maturing of the loc extensions? The wonderful thing about loc extensions is that you can bypass a number of growing pains that many experience when locking their own natural hair. I would urge you to watch out for weak points or slippage in the locs. Either case is correctable.! 8. What kind of styles do you recommend in the initial stages of the extension process?!
arsa
would highly recommend that extensions be limited to basic styles during the first 2-3 months of installation. Too much tension can cause slippage resulting in additional repair costs. 9. Are the styling options for loc extensions the same as traditionally cultivated locs? Once your loc extensions reach a certain level of maturity the sky is the limit. Many styling options such as pinups, curls, crinkles, braids, and double strand twists can be achieved. ! 10. What is your price range for loc extensions?! Pricing varies by length and size. Extension installation lengths can begin with the neck/jaw line, shoulder top, a few inches beyond the shoulders or closer to mid back. Pricing does include hair. A consultation is required before an exact price can be determined because each client may require something unique. ! !
30
SHOP
talk Get to know some of the hottest stylemakers in the biz and preview their favorite looks for Spring 2012! Inset photo by Alexander Morozov
Featuring: Dionne Ham of
e c den’s
orner
*PLUS a mini spread & interview with Shiquana McGee (not pictured) of
Loclub Showroom
G
Gloria Watkins of
low’s
B
eauty 34
SWEET TO SEXY. HAIR FOR ALL OCCASIONS
g r e a t
h a i r ,
a n y
t i m e ,
a n y w h e r e meet tajh sutton:
Mother, student, business owner, model and more. Tajh is the founder of Young People of Color, Inc. Young People of Color, Inc. is a grassroots corporation that serves youth within the 5 boroughs of New York. They provide seminars and showcases that foster critical thinking, creativity and political empowerment. Like most of us, Tajh has a full calendar so looking good on the go is a must. Tajh shows us that with right hairstyle and attitude, you can always be fab on the fly.
48