Even before rapper, Kodak Black admitted that he didn't like his own skin complexion or dating dark skinned women ( more on this later ), we have been facing the long-battled light skin vs dark skin nonsense.  It's sad that even in the age of Black Lives Matter and promoting racial justice, we still face the issue of Colorism within our own community. What is Colorism? Colorism is defined as a  prejudice or discrimination against individuals with a dark skin tone, typically among people of the same ethnic or racial group.  Usually individuals with a lighter complexion will receive preferential treatment in contrast to their counterparts that are deeper shades of brown.  A Long History This notion of Colorism was ingrained in descendants of Africa many moons ago.  We can look at history to see how this discrimination evolved into what we see being perpetuated in today's society.  This great nation built its early wealth through the use of a Slave Econ...

When I first decided to ditch the relaxers, it wasn't for some profound, self-reflecting reason. I was not thinking about connecting to my culture, promoting self-love, or building bonds with other fro wearing women. My decision to go natural was based purely on the fact that I wanted to grow my hair.  For years, I had struggled to get my hair to grow beyond my collar bone.  I had always encountered some type of breakage that prevented me from having the long hair that I once had as a child. Once I started researching and experimenting with various products, I have discovered the best products that work great for MY hair. These products have aided me in achieving longer, stronger hair.  I am so ecstatic about the growth and strength of my hair, that I definitely want to share the wealth with you so that you are not spending hundreds of dollars experimenting on the WRONG products.  Before we jump into the ULTIMATE list of Hair Products, I must state the obvious; Although thes...

In case you haven't heard, Shea Moisture, a beauty brand that has catered to the hair and skin needs of Black women, released a new commercial. Just as soon as the commercial was released, the public dragging commenced. The reason for the major backlash was the fact that the new advertising featured a woman who appeared to be biracial ( I could be wrong ) and several White women.  Say What? Yes, Shea Moisture, who has made tons of money from black consumers created, approved, and released a commercial that didn't focus on it's core audience.  Granted, a woman with a lighter complexion was front and center... BUT what happened to all of the other beautiful shades of brown?  No caramel, chestnut, chocolate, cocoa, etc.  Before I continue, check out the video that has all of the chocolate sisters up in arms. Credit: Peculiar Royalty - Youtube Objective Opinion I see why Shea Moisture thought this was a good move to make as a brand. They want to expand the...

I recently had the opportunity to try out some new products.  In March, I received four products in my monthly curlBOX subscription. To be quite honest, I had never heard of this brand and had never noticed their products in stores. After doing a bit of research, I now know that you can purchase these products at Target, Walmart, CVS, and Ulta.  I was actually excited to be entering uncharted territory with Maui Moisture. Let's dive into the four hair products that I received. PRODUCT BREAKDOWN Curl Quench + Coconut Oil Shampoo 13 FL OZ Curl Quench + Coconut Oil Conditioner 13 FL OZ Curl Quench + Coconut Oil Curl Smoothie 12 OZ Curl Quench + Coconut Oil Curl Milk 8 OZ I was very pleased to see how much product was included in each container.  The products range between $7 and $9 depending on where you purchase from. All of the Curl Quench products were designed for Thick, Curly Hair which is absolutely perfect for me.  If you do not have thick and curly hair, Maui...

Thick. BBW. Curvy. Shapely. Voluptuous. These are just a few words used to describe ladies that carry a little extra weight on their bodies.  Believe me, I have heard all of the "terms of endearment" that's used to describe females that have a similar body type. With all of the curves that outline my body there appears to be a set of problems that are definitely unique to women with a fuller shape.   Don't get me wrong... I am proud of my womanly curves and I will encourage all women to embrace their full figures... BUT the quirks that come along with the curves can become somewhat of a nuisance.  To all of the skinny girls that may want a more voluptuous shape, count your blessings.  Read on to find out my top 5 struggles that I face as a result of being THICK.  If you prefer to watch instead of read then click play button;) Otherwise scroll on. #1. Wearing Skirts can be a Hassle  I love wearing skirts for the simple fact that they are easi...

If you have been following Natural Hair trends, then it may seem like Natural Hair has seriously become a science.  There is always something new that one must learn in order to achieve the perfect curl.  We hear terms like protein, moisture retention, sulfates, silicone, and of course, porosity.  We hear so many hair/beauty gurus talk about the importance of hair porosity, so let's dive into all things relating to Hair Porosity. What is Hair Porosity? "Porosity is the quality of being porous, or full of tiny holes. Liquids go right through things that have porosity." - Vocabulary.com If you aren't achieving the ideal twist out or other curly style, then hair porosity may be the culprit. With that being said, hair porosity basically deals with your hair's ability to absorb liquid (moisture) and also retain it. There are three main types of porosity: Low, Normal, and High Porosity. How do you know your porosity type? There is a simple hair strand te...

I felt compelled to write today about something that is a total deviation from the normal topics covered on this blog. Today marks the National "Day Without A Woman" Protest.  To participate in this protest, women were encouraged to take the day off from work (one day strike), refrain from making purchases, and to wear red in solidarity of the movement.   As a Black Woman, I am proud to stand in solidarity with other women from all walks of life.  For many years women have dealt with unfair hiring practices, unequal pay, inadequate workplace protections, and inappropriate treatment... If you are a Black Woman then times that by two. The Black woman has endured all of the above and are often looked at as mere sex objects; nothing of value or worth.  I strike because I want to bring awareness to the plight of women, especially women of color.   With Donald Trump and his band of inexperienced simpletons running this country, the time has never been more ripe for women ...