BEAUTY

How to Determine Your Hair Curl Type

Published

8 years ago

September 26, 2016

It’s time to step away from the flat iron and let your curls take center stage. From corkscrews to beachy waves, no two curls are alike so each curl pattern requires its own set of maintenance and styling rules. But before you can let your curls spring into the spotlight, you need to figure out what type of curl you actually have.

Since curls are rarely uniform, it can be hard to clearly determine what type you’re rocking. “Curly hair comes in so many different varieties. From wavy to tight, and everything in between, curl patterns can be completely consistent throughout the head, however for most curly hair people, it tends to be inconsistent more often than not,” explains celebrity hairstylist Matthew Monzon. Another important fact to consider: It isn’t always the actual curl shape that determines your curl pattern, but also the thickness of your hair and how much space is between each curl’s curves.

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That being said, once you do finally have the “a-ha” moment, you’re guaranteed to have good curl days from here on out. “Each curl pattern requires a different menu of needs, and the right cut for the right curl can make a world of difference,” says Pantene celebrity hairstylist Chuck Amos. “Getting to know and understand your hair, means you can then learn what tools, products, application, drying and styling techniques are going to work the best for you,” adds celebrity hairstylist Vernon Fran?ois who works with Lupita Nyong’o, and recently launched his own line of products for natural hair. “It’s only by treating your curls in the right way, for their type, that you’ll get the very best out of them.” To find out what your curl pattern is once-and-for-all, keep reading for the stylists’ pro-tips.

Tight Curls

“If there is hardly any space between the curves of the curls and if they feel super springy, (like the slinky toy), then you have tight curls,” says Amos. “When it comes to managing this type of tight curl, you need to add lots of moisture, especially to the ends where nutrients are depleted most.”

“Usually this hair type is quite fragile because it tends to have fewer cuticle layers on the outside of its length,” explains Fran?ois. “What that means, is that it can sometimes break fairly easily.” To prevent breakage, the pro recommends drying hair carefully by patting and squeezing it with an old cotton t-shirt, or even better: a microfiber towel. “A traditional bath towel can tend to pull on strands and strip hair of moisture,” he says. He also suggest using your fingers to detangle strands instead of using a comb as another way to reduce breakage.

Spiral Curls

Looser than tight curls, these corkscrews tend to be extra bouncy. “It’s pretty easy to determine if you have spiral curls, because you actually see a spiral. The circumference of the curl and the space between the curves of the curl are pretty similar, making it easy to spot,” explains Amos.

If you have this curl pattern, Amos says to consider the world as your platter in terms of haircuts. “I suggest playing with ‘shapes,’ and having fun with your spiral curls. Just make sure that your curls (any pattern) are cut with scissors and not a razor. Razor blades slice curls, leaving ends weak, split and frizzy, within days of the cut.

Whether you have corkscrews, tight curls, or waves, Fran?ois recommends your stylist cutting your hair dry. “It makes sense , because you can immediately see the effect of the finished result, taking into account ‘shrinkage’ or how much the curl of the hair will spring up so there are no unexpected surprises for the client,” he says.

Wavy Hair

Wavy hair doesn’t always mean your hair forms perfect waves. “It means that the spaces between the curves of your curls (or waves, for that matter) are further between each other,” explains Amos. “It can go from your average loose spiral curl, to an indigenous wave look.”

The curves of this texture can also look like the letter “S” in various sizes. “Wavy hair tends to look more like a ‘S’ pattern that continues from root to end. “How much of an ‘S’ there is can vary, from being not far off straight; to a definite wave, or a visible ‘S’,” Fran?ois says.

According to Fran?ois, this curl type can tend to expose split ends and may lack volume, along with being prone to frizz. He recommends putting hair in a two-section twist before going to bed to prevent frizz and damage from hair rubbing on your pillowcases.

Credit: ALBERTO E. RODRIGUEZ/GETTY IMAGES; IDA MAE ASTUTE/ABC VIA GETTY IMAGES; DAN MACMEDAN/WIREIMAGE/Yahoonews.

BEAUTY

5 Awesome Ancient African Beauty Practices

Published

11 hours ago

November 23, 2024

Adaeze Okechi

Ancient African Beauty Practices | fab.ng

Ancient African beauty practices were rooted in nature and culture, blending self-care with physical well-being. These timeless rituals passed through generations continue to inspire modern beauty techniques.

Here are five remarkable practices:

1. Shea Butter for Skin and Hair Care

Shea butter, extracted from the nuts of the shea tree, is a staple in West Africa, especially in Nigeria and Ghana. Rich in vitamins A and E, it deeply moisturises the skin, promotes healing, and protects against harsh weather.

Traditionally, it was also used on hair to enhance growth and provide nourishment. Its soothing properties made it a remedy for burns and skin conditions, showcasing its therapeutic significance.

2. African Black Soap: Nature’s Cleanser

African black soap, made from plantain skins, cocoa pods, and palm tree leaves, has been a cornerstone of skincare for centuries.

Originating in Nigeria and spreading across West Africa, this soap is celebrated for its ability to cleanse deeply, exfoliate, and treat skin issues like acne and eczema.

Its natural ingredients make it a gentle yet effective solution, emphasising the continent’s resourcefulness in creating sustainable beauty products.

3. Mud and Clay Masks for Detoxification

Mud and clay have been integral to African beauty routines, especially in North and East Africa. These natural elements were used for their detoxifying properties, helping to draw out impurities while rejuvenating the skin.

The minerals in these masks improved skin tone and offered a calming and meditative experience. In regions like Morocco, Ghassoul clay became famous for hair and skin treatments, adding shine and vitality.

4. Beads and Piercings as Adornments

Beads and piercings were more than decorative; they symbolised identity, status, and spirituality. Waist beads, ankle bracelets, and body piercings were used to signify tribal affiliations, beauty, and even fertility.

This practice, prominent across Africa, highlights the continent’s artistry and the cultural significance of body adornments.

5. Dry Brushing and Natural Oils

Dry brushing, practiced in ancient Egypt, was a technique for exfoliating the skin, improving circulation, and promoting a glowing complexion.

Similarly, oils like Kalahari melon seed oil in Southern Africa provided hydration and protection against harsh climates. These practices were holistic, blending skincare with overall wellness.

These ancient African beauty practices demonstrate the rich heritage of natural and sustainable self-care. By embracing earth-based ingredients and methods, Africans nurtured beauty that was as functional as it was symbolic.

These traditions continue to resonate today, inspiring global beauty trends and connecting modern practices to their ancestral roots.

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BEAUTY

How To Choose Jewelry For Your Personal Style

Published

1 week ago

November 16, 2024

Adaeze Okechi

How To Choose Jewelry For Your Personal Style | fab.ng

Jewellery, a timeless accessory, can elevate your style and express your individuality. However, with countless options available, how to choose jewelry for your personal style can be overwhelming.

To choose jewelry for your personal style, start with understanding your personal style. Are you classic, bohemian, minimalist, or edgy? Once you know your style, you can start selecting pieces that reflect your personality.

How to choose jewelry for your personal style also involves considering your skin tone. Cool tones look best in silver and white gold, while warm tones complement gold and rose gold.

The type of metal you choose is another important factor. Gold is a classic and versatile option, while silver is modern and edgy. Rose gold is romantic and feminine, and platinum is luxurious and durable.

How to choose jewelry for your personal style requires considering the occasion, your face shape, and your outfit. Whether you’re looking for everyday pieces or statement jewelry, there’s a perfect piece out there for you.

By following these tips, you can confidently select jewelry that enhances your natural beauty and reflects your unique style.

Understanding Your Personal Style

Before diving into the world of jewelry, it’s essential to understand your personal style.

Classic: If you prefer timeless elegance, opt for classic pieces like pearl necklaces, delicate gold chains, and simple stud earrings.
Bohemian: Embrace your free-spirited side with layered necklaces, chunky bracelets, and earthy tones.
Minimalist: Keep it simple with sleek, minimalist pieces like dainty rings and delicate pendants.
Edgy: Experiment with bold, statement pieces like oversized earrings, chunky rings, and edgy necklaces.

Considering Your Skin Tone

Your skin tone plays a significant role in choosing jewelry that complements your complexion.

Cool Tones: If you have cool undertones, silver, white gold, and platinum jewelry will enhance your natural beauty.
Warm Tones: If you have warm undertones, gold and rose gold jewelry will complement your skin tone.

Selecting the Right Metals

The type of metal you choose can significantly impact your overall look.

Gold: Gold is a classic and versatile metal that complements a wide range of styles.
Silver: Silver is a modern and edgy metal that pairs well with contemporary outfits.
Rose Gold: Rose gold is a romantic and feminine metal that adds a touch of warmth to your look.
Platinum: Platinum is a durable and luxurious metal that is perfect for special occasions.

Choosing the Right Earrings

Earrings can instantly elevate your look. Consider the following factors when selecting earrings:

Face Shape: Choose earrings that complement your face shape. For example, long earrings can elongate a round face, while stud earrings can accentuate a square face.
Occasion: The occasion will determine the appropriate style of earrings. For a casual look, opt for simple studs or hoops. For a formal event, consider a chandelier or drop earrings.

Selecting the Right Necklaces

Necklaces can add a touch of elegance or a bold statement to your outfit. Consider the following factors when selecting necklaces:

Neckline: Choose a necklace that complements your neckline. For example, a V-neckline looks great with a pendant necklace, while a high neckline pairs well with a choker.
Outfit: The style of your outfit will determine the appropriate necklace. A casual outfit can be elevated with a simple pendant necklace, while a formal dress can be accessorized with a statement necklace.

Selecting the Right Bracelets

Bracelets can add a touch of sparkle to your wrist. Consider the following factors when selecting bracelets:

Wrist Size: Choose a bracelet that fits comfortably on your wrist.
Stacking: Experiment with stacking different bracelets to create a unique look.
Occasion: The occasion will determine the appropriate style of bracelet. For a casual look, opt for a simple bangle or cuff bracelet. For a formal event, consider a delicate chain bracelet with gemstones.

Selecting the Right Rings

Rings can add a touch of glamour to your hands. Consider the following factors when selecting rings:

Finger: Choose a ring that fits comfortably on your finger.
Stacking: Experiment with stacking different rings to create a unique look.
Occasion: The occasion will determine the appropriate style of ring. For a casual look, opt for a simple band ring. For a formal event, consider a cocktail ring or engagement ring.

You can choose jewelry that complements your personal style and enhances your natural beauty just by following the steps. Remember, the most important thing is to have fun and experiment with different styles to find what works best for you.

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BEAUTY

This Is How Your Self Esteem Can Affect Your Beauty

Published

2 weeks ago

November 9, 2024

Adaeze Okechi

How Your Self Esteem Can Affect Your Beauty | fab.ng

Self-esteem and beauty are closely linked. When you feel good about yourself, you naturally radiate confidence, and that confidence enhances your beauty.

However, low self-esteem can lead to habits and feelings that detract from your appearance. Let’s explore how self-esteem influences your looks and the steps you can take to build self-confidence.

Self-Esteem Shapes How You See Yourself

Self-esteem is the way you perceive and value yourself. It’s your internal barometer that impacts how you view your strengths, abilities, and appearance.

High self-esteem helps you feel positive about your appearance, even when you may not fit society’s beauty standards. You’re likely to see your unique qualities as attractive, which translates to a more positive self-image.

When your self-esteem is low, you may focus on perceived flaws. This can lead to negative self-talk, which often distorts your perception of your beauty.

Over time, these negative thoughts can impact how you carry yourself, resulting in less confidence and a reluctance to embrace your natural beauty.

Confidence Changes How You Present Yourself

Self-esteem has a powerful effect on body language. When you feel good about yourself, you stand taller, make eye contact, and move with confidence.

These actions make you appear more attractive to others. People with high self-esteem often exude a charm that makes others view them as more beautiful.

On the other hand, low self-esteem can make you appear withdrawn. You may avoid eye contact, slouch, or hide certain features of yourself.

These behaviours can create a closed-off appearance, reducing the natural attractiveness that comes from feeling comfortable in your own skin.

Embracing your worth can encourage confident body language that enhances your appearance.

Self-Esteem Affects Skin Health

Your emotional state directly impacts your skin. High self-esteem is often linked to lower stress levels. When you feel good about yourself, your body produces fewer stress hormones like cortisol.

Reduced cortisol levels lead to healthier skin, as stress can exacerbate skin conditions such as acne, psoriasis, and eczema.

Low self-esteem, on the other hand, may trigger stress and anxiety, both of which contribute to skin issues.

The more stressed you feel, the more likely you are to experience breakouts and dull skin. Improving self-esteem can contribute to glowing, healthier skin by minimizing stress-related skin problems.

Healthy Habits Stem from Self-Worth

When you value yourself, you’re more likely to prioritize your health and appearance. Positive self-esteem often leads to healthy habits like eating nutritious foods, exercising, and following a skincare routine. These habits improve your overall appearance, enhancing your natural beauty.

In contrast, low self-esteem can sometimes lead to neglect of self-care. Feelings of unworthiness may make you believe that investing in your appearance or health isn’t worth the effort.

As a result, your skin, body, and mental health may suffer, which can reduce your overall attractiveness. Cultivating self-worth encourages you to care for yourself, bringing out your best features.

Increasing Your Smile and Eye Contact

People with high self-esteem tend to smile more often. Smiling is universally attractive—it shows warmth, friendliness, and confidence.

When you feel good about yourself, your smile reflects that inner positivity, making you more approachable and beautiful.

Eye contact is another powerful tool. Those with high self-esteem often feel comfortable maintaining eye contact, which creates a strong connection with others. It conveys confidence, openness, and trust.

In contrast, low self-esteem can make you avoid eye contact, making you appear nervous or unapproachable. Practising eye contact and smiling are small but effective ways to project confidence and enhance your beauty.

Here are some frequently asked questions that provide more insight into the relationship between self-esteem and physical appearance:

Can improving self-esteem make you look more attractive?

Yes, improving self-esteem can enhance your appearance. High self-esteem often leads to a positive mindset, encouraging you to care for your body, skin, and overall health.

It also affects your posture, facial expressions, and body language, which others perceive as more attractive. When you feel good about yourself, you exude a glow that reflects in your physical appearance.

How does self-esteem impact your skin?

Self-esteem can impact your skin by influencing your stress levels. High self-esteem is associated with lower stress, which benefits the skin by reducing conditions like acne and inflammation.

Conversely, low self-esteem can lead to stress and anxiety, which can cause breakouts and dullness. Taking steps to improve your self-esteem can contribute to clearer, healthier skin.

What are some ways to build self-esteem and feel more beautiful?

Building self-esteem involves both mindset shifts and physical habits. Practising self-compassion, setting achievable goals, and surrounding yourself with positive influences can help improve self-esteem.

Physically, regular exercise, skincare routines, and healthy eating can make you feel better about yourself. By focusing on self-care and positive thinking, you can boost both your self-esteem and your sense of beauty.

Improving Self-Esteem and Enhancing Beauty

To boost your self-esteem and beauty, focus on building a positive self-image. Celebrate your unique features, rather than comparing yourself to others. Remember that beauty starts with how you feel about yourself.

Embrace healthy habits, practice self-compassion, and appreciate your worth. Self-esteem is a powerful asset that not only improves how you feel but also radiates outward, making you appear more attractive to those around you.

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