Edges, we come in Peace

Hey Beauties! Can we talk? I wanted to educate my fellow Queens on the importance of preserving those edges!!! After 15 years of servicing clients, there are still countless questions from clients about how to care for their edges.

First off, what ARE edges? Edges, loosely explained, is the hair along your hairline. The most delicate hairs on your head, that receive the most exposure, tension and manipulation.

Are “baby hairs” and “edges” the same things? Mmmm, NO. Although some people refer to “baby hairs” as edges. Baby hairs are actually the really fine, shorter, delicate hairs that live alongside your hairline. The texture is usually slightly different from the rest of the hair.

The texture and density of your edges depend on a few different factors:

• Heredity.

• Hair Care.

• Styling.

• Nutrition (or lack thereof).

• Medication.

• Exposure to natural elements.

• Etc.

It’s important to protect the integrity of your hairline/edges because as we age, so do our hair follicles. If not preserved and cared for, alopecia (hair loss), finds its way to your hairline. And away it goes.

Marsha Badger (above) of Introvert In The City and her stylist @_jusmimi_blm achieved this super sleek ponytail on natural hair using our MarshayNicole Edge Control.

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Because the texture along the hairline is slightly different, some may desire a sleeker finished look by adding product to the edges. Products like gels, edge controls, mousse, and even holding spray have become widely popular as a method of “laying edges down”.

While the finished look is sleek and controlled, the over-use of ANY of these products will cause your hairline to thin prematurely. It’s important to understand that proper application and proper removal is imperative for hair retention!

• Look for products that don’t cause a lot of buildup (buildup clogs your hair follicles, preventing growth and obstructing blood flow to the scalp).

• Don’t use combs/brushes that are too coarse on your edges.

• Don’t apply edge control more than 2x a week.

• Make sure you’re delicately shampooing ALL the product buildup from your hairline when washing your hair.

• Be sure to sleep with a satin scarf, bonnet or pillow case. Cotton absorbs the moisture from your hair. And dry hair breaks.

• Don’t use products that are too thick or too strong of a ‘hold’. It will literally pull those fine hairs out of your scalp

• If your main focus is redirecting (or swirrrrling) those “baby hairs” , use a small brush or NEW toothbrush.

• Whatever tool (brush, comb, spatula) you are using, WASH THE PRODUCT OFF AFTER USING IT. Buildup of product on your brush/comb holds bacteria and old flaky product.

• Be sure to MOISTURIZE your edges. We often forget that ALL of our hair needs moisture and stimulation.

• Chill.— It’s ok to have a little fuzz. Embrace the beauty that is YOU.

  Don’t limit yourself to using Edge Control on just your edges/hairline. Our MarshayNicole Edge Control can be used to achieve sleek ponytails/buns, for fly-aways, or for braiding.

Whatever you do, have fun. Express YOU and take care of yourself.

Thanks for reading!

Love & Light

MarshayNicole

Self Care + Self Love 2020 Part II

Oh Em Gee!! 2020 came in with a FORCE to be reckoned with!

I’ve been so swamped with life, that I kept putting this blog on hold. And well, how fitting – we’re being asked to self-quarantine AKA, chill out. What better time to share some wellness tip with my MarshayNicole family?

Aside from tapping into some much needed creativity, I’ve been managing my self-care better than ever before. I am by no means, mocking the Corona Virus or any of the devastation it’s caused. I’ve just decided to take this time to relieve myself of the hysteria and focus on the comeback.

As usual, I’m gonna share the love. I’ve listed a few of my favorite Self Care Methods from head to toe that focuses on some Outer Love. Welcome to Part 2.

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Exfoliate:

Did you know?..

Anywhere from 10-30 layers of dead skin are always present on the surface of our skin?  These cells build up causing clogged pores, flaking, redness, irritation, and breakouts. Regularly exfoliating your skin, scalp, & lips promotes circulation and cell turnover. Resulting in beautiful, clear and healthier skin overtime. 2-3 times a week is ideal. Over exfoliation will cause adverse reactions. Be careful to observe how your skin is reacting. If you notice light irritation, exfoliate less often and BE PATIENT! Results will show immediately, but you may also experience a purge (a breakout resulting from the release of toxins & bacteria).

Moisturize:

Moisturizing keeps your skin, scalp, hair and nails healthy to promote healthy growth and retention. I make sure to reiterate to my clients that “DRY HAIR BREAKS”. The same goes for the other porous parts of our body. When moisturizing, please keep in mind that water HYDRATES and oil SEALS. Water alone, nor Oil alone will keep you hydrated. Water will evaporate and oil will just sit on top of the skin. But together, it’s like Peanut Butter & Jelly. It’s just right.

And while we’re on the topic of Moisture, people -Deep Conditioning is IMPERATIVE!!! I cannot stress enough how important deep conditioning your hair is. Sooooooooooooooooo many clients complain about how brittle and dry their hair feels. Meanwhile, they have back-to-back protective styles or a months’ worth of wash & go’s. You have to make time to pour some love and moisture back into your hair. You’ll notice a drastic change in the bounce, shine, and ability to hold certain styles longer. Thank me later.

PRO-TIP: SECTION YOUR HAIR INTO 4-6 SECTIONS TO MAKE SURE THE CONDITIONER IS EVENLY DISTRIBUTED THROUGHOUT YOUR HAIR. CLIENTS OFTEN MISS THE MIDDLE OF THEIR HAIR, CAUSING SEVERE DRYNESS AND BREAKAGE. (There are TONS of deep conditioners you can make with ingredients you have right at home – next blog.)

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Goddess Baths:

Probably  one of my favorite methods of Self Care. Goddess Baths are nothing new. They’re ancient. For years, women/men in cultures across the world have  been using baths/soaks as methods of relaxation, destressing, and healing. Bath soaks also promote circulation and relieves achy, tired muscles. During your steamy bath time, it’s important to relax your MIND. Declutter your thoughts and give your over-working brain a break. Set beautiful intentions, focus on the NOW. And submit to the bliss  of STILLNESS.

Grab your essentials and RELAX.

-4 Drops of Eucalyptus Oil (or essential oil of your choice)

-Fresh or dried flowers, petals, herbs, root.

-Favorite Candle.

-Cool glass of water.

-Favorite Book (NO ELECTRONICS).

-Bubble Bath.

This alone time will allow your mind to consciously process stored information, clearing space  for clearer thoughts. Rest , Goddess.

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Nail Care:

Whether you manicure, nibble on, or add acrylics to your nails – proper nail care & hygiene is important. Think about the countless things, surfaces, & people you touch a day. The bacteria from just contact lives and breeds underneath you nails. Most people don’t wash underneath their nails during normal hand washing. That means harmful things, such as fecal matter or dead skin from yourself and others are living their best life at the tips of your fingers. Excuse my forwardness, but I need to make sure you’re listening. Here’s a few ways to treat your nails naturally and in the comfort of your own home:

· ACV SOAK – Put equal parts of Apple Cider Vinegar and water in a small bowl, soak for 7-10 minutes. This is one of the safest, natural & most effective ways to disinfect your nails. It can cure fungal infections and even help draw out splinters. ACV also softens cuticles, making it easier to remove without weakening the natural keratin. After soaking, brush/rinse nails thoroughly with just water. Pat dry.

(PRO TIP: ALWAYS give your nails a minute or 2 to dry completely before polishing. Damp nail beds are enlarged and will shrink when dry, causing your dried polish to crack.)

· ALOE VERA TREATMENT – Using Aloe Vera Gel, Aloe vera juice, or an Aloe Vera Plant – Allow your nails to be fully submerged or covered for 7-10 minutes. Rinse Dry. Aloe Vera contains nutrients that condition the nails. Promoting growth and overall healthier nails.

·NATURAL/ESSENTIAL OILS – Natural Oils like Castor Oil, Olive Oil, Grapeseed, and Coconut have AMAZING benefits. They act as a great protective barrier to bare nails, promote growth and condition cuticles. Who needs to buy cuticle oil when your kitchen pantry has all the goodies?

(PRO-TIP: Remember to apply cuticle oil AFTER applying your nail polish.)

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FOOT CARE

Whew! Yes, we’re going there.

They do the most work, yet, get the least attention. If you can manage to do the basics when you can’t or just rather not go the nail salon/spa – then you’re saving yourself a lot of discomfort in the future. Calluses, fungus and ingrown toenails are preventative. Here are just FIVE habits you can form, that’ll keep you ten-toes-down in proper foot health.

1 – People, don’t forget to WASH your feet. Thoroughly. Get in between those toes, underneath those nails, and PLEASE show those heels some love. It prevents dead skin build up AKA dry, cracked feet!

2-Grab a pumice stone to naturally buff away your heels and callus-prone spots on the bottom of your feet. DO NOT, & I repeat DO NOT try to file your corns down with a pumice stone girl. Its too abrasive, the skin on the top is not as thick as the skin on the bottom of your feet.

3- Foot Soaks are something special. They relax tired foot muscles, Soothe aches and improve circulation. They also aid in treating foot fungal infections (Don’t forget to add 2-3 drops of your favorite essential oil(s) to your soak).

4-Keep  your toenails cut/trimmed. This prevents discomfort in your shoes while also preventing painful ingrown toenails.

5- Moisturize. I often hear clients complain about how dry their feet are, but they don’t moisturize them daily or properly. Foot lotions are specially formulated with a thicker consistency to moisturize your feet. Invest in them. OR, If you, like me, prefer a natural solution – Grab the Olive Oil (or my MarshayNicole Scalp Growth Oil + Serum) and apply a dime sized amount to each foot. Slowly massage into feet. Applying socks overnight to moisturized feet will help seal in moisture.

Family, I wish you well. I hope you’ve enjoyed reading this as much as I did writing it. Take care of yourself.

Keep praying, Keep manifesting. Keep the faith.

Self Care + Self Love 2020 Part I

Hey queens!

Well, we made it! Blessed and ever so grateful to have made it through another crazy year. It’s about time to ease into this year with some much needed self care. It seems like overnight, the world went haywire. Amidst our political and economic woes - home life is a whole chaotic mood by itself. (If you let it - but that’s a story for another day).

It’s so easy to get caught up in the job, the kids, the bae, schooling, and everything else in between. You did it sis, now what about you?

Self care is just as imperative to your mental and emotional health as it is to your physical health and appearance.

I think we can all relate to that refreshed and renewed feeling we have after leaving the salon. Or while walking out of the yoga studio. Or after finally noticing results from our workout regime. That “Damn, look good.” quickly turns into “Damn, I feel good.”

Babygirl, you owe it to yourself to replenish and recharge.

I’m always complimented on how my much my infectious good mood and energy makes others feel around me. Destressing and self-preservation have be consistent major factors in my life. I noticeably have better mental clarity, patience, and an overall better outlook on life in general. It pays to love yourself.

I’ve put together a few of my favorite methods of distressing my life. Enjoy Queens. And have a safe, prosperous, productive, successful and healthy New Year. Happy 2020.

Part One: From the Inside Out:

DOUBLE YOUR WATER INTAKE

I know, I know - but seriously, you could never have enough water. You’d be surprised at how detrimental NOT drinking water could be. Staying hydrated means less irritability, clearer skin, less wrinkles, and shinier hair! Your body produces excess oils to combat the lack of H20. This causes breakouts, dandruff, clogged pores and slow growth and healing. (If the taste or lack thereof is what keeps you from being your best hydrated self,-- add washed fruits to your water. Chopped berries, cucumbers, or citrus add subtle, refreshing flavor.) Bottoms up sis!

GET IN MORE GREENS

There are soooo many greens to choose from! Broccoli, Kale, Spinach, Zucchini, Arugula – the list goes on. I love green veggies and fruits. But if it comes as a challenge to you, try them all until you find the ones that work for you. You can also try mixing your greens into your favorite fruit smoothie to camouflage the ‘earthy taste’. However you choose to get in it, just, GET. IT. IN.

TOSS THE WHITE SUGAR

Try removing white sugar from your pantry. There’s more than enough sugars in our everyday meals that you definitely could go w/o having that as your go-to sweetener. Coconut sugar and Agave are great healthier substitutes.

PACK ON THE PROTEIN

Protein is essential for growth. That’s means, a beautiful glow for you skin, plus some extra inches and shine for your hair. Since following a new plant-based diet, I ALWAYS get asked the question “How are you getting your protein?” Girl, the same way the cow that you eat gets his protein. From greens sis! Nuts. Eggs. Oats. Tuna. Quinoa. Lentil. Etc. – The options are endless.

SCHEDULE YOUR ANNUAL APPOINTMENTS

Check yourself before you wreck yourself! Prevention & early detection is key. Most of us will agree that these aren’t the greatest thing to look forward to. But getting yourself checked out eases the anxiety of the unknown. – Also, now might be a good time to treat yourself to a therapy session. Do a little research, ask for a referral, and unpack a lot of that baggage that I’m sure you don’t need to carry with you into a new decade. Whew chile!

VITAMINS & SUPPLEMENTS

Always consult with your doctor before possibly overloading your body with things it does not need. . Your annual check-up usually includes your levels and deficiencies. Grab some vitamins and supplements that you’re lacking, and help your body get back on track. Your body is constantly and always working to maintain itself in its healthiest state. Think about it: your hair, bones, skin and other organs are ALWAYS in the process of creating new cells. It’s up to you to create a healthy environment for those new and healthy cells to grow and multiply.

***If taking Biotin as a supplement for hair, skin, or nail health - be sure to drink PLENTY of water! Then drink some more.

***Also, be sure to get your minerals too. Your vitamins will breakdown and absorb better with the help of some natural minerals.

FIND YOUR PEACE

This one is always at the top of my list. When things are peaceful around me, my performance is at 110%. The minute that peace is interrupted, things go haywire. While I am consciously working on self control and being so reactive/impulsive – I have to remind myself to snap out of it, and re-center.

For some of us, peace means alone time. Reading a book. Riding a bike. Taking a Walk. Having a glass of wine. Whatever brings you to that calm place of gratitude – go with it. Don’t’ over-indulge, as everything needs balance.

JOT IT DOWN

‘Journaling’ is a great way to reflect. With our minds running a mile-a-minute, remembering the things that make us smile often gets lost in the wind. Meanwhile, moments of aggravation, pain, or mishaps seem to linger forever, Journal and RELEASE it. New day, who dis?

GET MORE REST/SLEEP

Mmmhmm. I know. Who has time for sleep right? Wrong. You better make some time. Or your body will force you to sit down. Figure out ways to work smarter and not harder. Get those kids on a better routine. Stop answering work calls after work hours. Save the laundry for tomorrow. Don’t sacrifice your rest trying to get it all done in a day. RELAX.

I could go on for days about some more INNER LOVE. We’ll get there. For now -- I hope you enjoyed. I hope you’ll take it one day at a time. Join me for Part II in a couple of weeks. I’ll give you some time to soak this all up.

Cheers to a new you. Begin. Again.

Protective Styling Q & A

What IS a protective style?

A protective style is any hairstyle whereas your natural hair isn’t free/loose. The clients hair is typically braided to protect it against heat styling, maintainance, weather, etc.
These styles include:
Crochet Braids.
Box Braids.
Cornrows.
Weaves.
Wigs.

Protective Styles are great for those of us who are looking for something effortless and cute that’ll allow for us to give our natural hair a break. Protective styles should NEVER be too tight. Too much tension can cause Traction Alopecia (a condition that causes hair loss or excessive thinning along the hairline). - The objective is to grow and thrive! I took the liberty of talking with a few of my clients on questions/concerns you guys may have regarding your protective styles. Read on Queens!

Q : My hair sheds a lot after I take out my braids, is this normal?
A : Yes it is! Your hair sheds 50-100 strands a day. A DAY! So after having your hair braided for days, weeks, or months at a time - so while unraveling your braids or detangling your hair, you’ll definitely see all that previously shedded hair.

Q : Are crochet or braided styles better for your hair than a weave or wig?
A : Every client is different. Current hair condition plays a major role in how protective your protective style will be. Consult w/your stylist about the strength of your hair and what is easiest for you to maintain. Anything too heavy, or that requires a lot of upkeep (especially heat), will damage your hair.

Q : How long does a protective style last?
A : Protective styles vary. It can be anywhere from 2 weeks to 2 months. Depending on the type of style. I don’t recommend keeping ANY protective style in for longer then 8 weeks.

Q : Can I still wash my hair?
A : I recommend shampooing your hair once every 2-3 weeks. Making sure your natural hair underneath is rinsed thoroughly and dried COMPLETELY. This will keep your scalp clean and healthy - promoting growth.
TIP : My MarshayNicole Hair + Body Mist is anti-bacterial & anti-microbial. You can spray on scalp in-between shampoos to cleanse. * Don’t forget to moisturize your scalp post shampoo.

MarshayNicole Eucalyptus Lavender Hair + Body Mist

$19.00

Quantity:

Can I Have YOU?! Add To Cart!

Q : Are tight braids the norm for the protective style to hold?
A : NO! Yes, light tension is normal. However, if it is so uncomfortable that you need to take a pain-killer or can’t sleep at night, you’ve done some damage. It’s not worth the pain and, in some cases, the irreversible hair loss/thinning. *Those small white bumps along the hairline are filled with PUS, & can become infected. ITS NOT WORTH IT.

Q : Am I allergic to synthetic hair? My scalp always itches when I get a protective style.
A : Possibly. The factories that manufacture synthetic braiding hair, use an alkaline base chemical coating on the hair to give the hair a shine & luster. That chemical usually causes a mild to severe reaction to the client. Try giving the synthetic hair a quick 15-minute Apple Cider Vinegar + Water soak to remove the chemicals before installing. OR do ACV rinse on braids after installation.


Feel free to ask questions below or drop a few tips if you have some! Thanks for reading. Love & Light! - Marshay

Protect Your Leave Out!

What is Leave Out?

Leave Out is the clients natural hair that is left out (not braided or sewn) to cover the tracks of a sew in weave that blends with the attached extensions. It is typically a rectangular-parted section of hair left out, wherever the client prefers a realistic part. Leave Out can be in the middle, Right/Left side, and/or along the edges (hairline).

PRO TIP: Always discuss where you’d prefer your part with your stylist, BEFORE they begin prepping or braiding your hair.

When should I get Leave Out?

In my professional opinion, I recommend Leave Out to clients that:

·         Are comfortable with keeping their hair blended correctly after they leave the salon.

·         Have a HEALTHY section of hair that can be left out. No visible damage or breakage.

·         Will commit to thoroughly washing and conditioning the section of leave out as directed, in-between appointments or up to the time of extension removal.

·         Desire a completely natural and undetected weave install, AND complies with all of the above.

What IS the After-Care?

Oh, I’m glad you asked! Here’s my list of a few amazing tips to protect and maintain your Leave Out:

•  Respectfully make sure your stylist is using a heat protectant before blow drying, flat ironing, and/or curling your Leave Out.

• Make sure YOU are using a thermal heat protectant at home. (Heat Protectants also protect harmful UV rays from the sun. YES, your hair is exposed to daily sun damage).

• Don’t use heat everyday on your Leave Out. I recommend no more than 2x a week. Daily use WILL CAUSE YOUR HAIR TO BECOME SEVERELY HEAT DAMAGED. (Also, limit your passes of the flat iron on your natural hair. DON’T use heat over 400 degrees.)

• Try different styling options. Twisting, Braiding, Clips, Head Bands, Hats and Bobby Pins are cute and easy alternatives to heat styling your Leave Out.

• Opt for a Leave Out Style that requires minimal maintenance.

• PLEASE, PLEEEEEEASE use a texture of hair extensions that CLOSELY matches your natural hair texture.

• Don’t over-do it on the products. Especially gel and edge control. Over-use of edge control for left-out edges WILL cause hair loss (traction alopecia).

• Always protect your hair when sleeping. A satin bonnet with an elastic band, satin or silk scarf, or a satin or silk pillowcase will protect your hair from tension & moisture-absorption from cotton linen.

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Questions and Comments are welcomed! Post your thoughts below and join in on the convo! Love & Light! Thanks for reading!