June Plans for Candra’s Hair

Hey everyone!

I decided that I wanted to post monthly plans for my hair.

At this stage of my hair journey I feel confident about my hair care regimen and even styling, believe it or not. Lol 

So I’m ready to take my hair journey to the next level.

The next level for me involves simplifying my regimen and making my wash day process flow more quickly. I’m getting too old for 8 hour wash days! J

So I’ll be trying out shorter deep conditioning times with heat. I want to nail down which deep conditioner or what combo of deep conditioning ingredients will effectively condition my hair in a shorter time! I’ll keep ya posted so make sure you subscribe to my YouTube channel.

Another plan for the month of June is to visit a new salon. I’m not sure just yet if I want to visit a small business or make a second trip to the Ulta Salon.

I’ve seen some not so good reviews of the Ulta Salon on YouTube, but I had a good experience a few years ago. I’m looking to do a blowout and flat iron for my trip to St. Louis in a few weeks.

My last major hair plan for the month is to take my love for coconut oil to another level. In the past I was not a fan of sealing my hair with coconut oil, but I want to give it another go.

My hair loves this oil so much, so I am going to modify the amount of oil I use for daily sealing. I’ll also be adding coconut oil into a few skin care products. Using coconut oil on my leaves my skin moisturized and soft but coconut oil alone gives me too much shine.

Sunday, June 7th I will be launching my new blog site! This blog site will remain up but again I'm ready to expand and grow on this journey. :) I'm super excited to make changes in my hair life and blogging world. So excited that I may not be able to wait until Sunday to launch!!!

So to recap….

June Plans

      Simplify Weekly Hair Routine
 Find best deep conditioning treatment for shorter conditioning times
Seal with coconut oil
Add coconut oil to skin care products (cleansers/moisturizers) 
Launch new blog combining my love for coconut oil and beauty ;)

Thanks for stopping by and catching up on what’s happening with my hair.

Love you to life! God bless!

~Candra

DIY Scalp and Hair Growth Oil Week 2 Update Length Check

Length Check Archive Photo - June 2014

Happy Monday! :D


Just a quickie update on the progress of my scalp and hair growth oil....

It's been two weeks and I have been consistent with lightly applying and massaging the oil into my scalp daily.



Scalp Health

I put my shampoo and conditioner for dry and itchy scalp on the shelf this month so I can test the strength of this oil alone. So far my scalp itch is minimal to non existent. The overall appearance of my scalp reflects excellent health! Speaking as someone who has had severe dry and flaky skin for over twenty years, I am super ecstatic! I would much rather combat dandruff naturally.


Hair Growth

As far as growth is concerned I have retained almost an inch of hair growth in two weeks. This isn't inversion method results but still much better than my normal hair growth rate which seems to be less than 1/2 inch per month.

I made a mix of 2 ounces and in two weeks I've used 1.5 ounces. I'll be making another 2 ounces this week to get me through the month. On wash days before I pre poo my hair with coconut oil, I apply a more generous amount of my growth oil to my scalp.

Stay tuned to my YouTube channel for my 30 day update video!






Blessings and Happy Hair Journey!!!

~Candra

Just starting a healthy hair journey? Click here before you begin. - http://relaxedhairskincare.blogspot.com/2014/09/starting-healthy-hair-journey-seven.html

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candra.l.evans@gmail.com

P.O. Box 128787

Cincinnati, Ohio 45212

Scalp and Hair Growth Oil Week 1 Update

My DIY Scalp and Hair Growth Oil - Week 1 Update

I have two main goals for my hair as we transition from autumn to winter.

First, I want to retain at least two inches of hair growth by the holidays. I had a tremendous growth spurt over the spring and summer, partly due to Hairlista's coconut oil challenge.

Yet, because of "life", it's been tedious to keep up that challenge regimen. So although my hair is continuing to get thicker, my growth rate is back on tortoise speed.

My second goal is to relieve my scalp of dryness. With the change of weather, my scalp has been dry than normal. The crown of my head has felt very extremely dry and itchy.

So I composed a DIY scalp and hair growth oil made of the following eight essential and carrier oils that works well for all hair types. Watch the video below to see how I mix and apply the oils.

Carrier Oils

~ Coconut Oil {full of nutrients and anti-bacterial properties}

~ Almond Oil {high vitamin E content}

~ Jamaican Black Castor Oil {promotes rapid hair growth}

~ Hemp Seed Oil {contains essential fatty acid and strengthens hair}

Essential Oils

~ Rosemary Oil {stimulates hair follicles}

~ Cedarwood Oil {has anti-fungal properties and stimulates the scalp}

~ Lavender Oil {promotes hair growth and even regrowth}

~ Tea Tree Oil {soothes the scalp and prevents dandruff}

Application

I lightly apply my growth oil directly to my scalp every evening before bed. With my fingertips I gently massage the oil stimulating blood flow. On wash days I saturate my scalp with the oil, pre-poo the rest of my hair with coconut oil, put on a plastic cap and let it sit for at least an hour before cleansing.


Week 1 ~ First Impression


After the first application of the oil, I could feel the tingling of the essential oils, but not so much since then. So today, I will add a few extra drops of the tea tree, lavender, and rosemary oils.

On day five, the itchiness at the crown of my head has subsided.

The smell of the essential oils packs a punch, but I enjoy the aromatherapy of these oils. The fragrance lingers on the hair for a few hours. I am applying the oil lightly, so after a few hours the aroma fades away. My husband hasn't even noticed. ;)

After only 1 week it's difficult to track hair growth. This is especially the case for me because I am over 8 weeks post relaxer and my new growth is tightly coiled/curly.

Next Monday after week two I will measure my hair against my length check shirt. I started week one between lines 7 and 8. This is where I was on my last relaxer update video. Hence my perception of turtle like growth. If there is breakage going on in the back, I have not noticed.

Overall, I am very excited to have relief from the itching and dryness, and time will tell the story as to how the oil will help my hair growth. Patience is key!


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Co-Washing with Tresemme Platinum Strength Conditioner

Note our new domain name! www.relaxedhairskincare.com! 

Co-Washing with Tresemme Platinum Strength Conditioner

I am just about 7 weeks post relaxer so now is the time to focus on both strength and moisture for my hair.

This relaxer stretch I hope to avoid even more breakage than last time and I will have to be more proactive about preventing my new growth from matting in the back.

I'm back in search of the right products to help me achieve these goals.

I was officially on a no-buy for conditioners over the summer, or until I finished up at least five bottles of conditioner that I already owned. #ProductJunkieProblems ;)

Over the summer I finally finished up five different conditioners by Giovanni, Herbal Essence (2 each), ORS, and Tresemme Naturals. That meant, shopping time!

The Tresemme Platinum Strength conditioner was one that I picked up at my local drugstore. There was a $5 dollar off coupon in the paper that week, plus several of the Tresemme conditioners were on sale at CVS.

To strengthen my hair I was initially looking for the Tresemme Split End Remedy conditioner but it's been hard to find in my area. However, I read great reviews for the Platinum Strength and CVS had that stock.

The claim to fame for the Tresemme Platinum Strength is that it repairs up to 2 years of damage in just 5 washes and protects the hair from future damage. Since I have been on my hair journey for less than two years, the ends of my hair are always in need of TLC.

Wash Day

1. Pre-Poo Treatment with Coconut Oil
2. Co-Wash (washing with conditioner only) with Tresemme Platinum Strength.
3. Deep Condition with Neutrogena Triple Moisture Daily Deep Conditioner and coconut oil
4. Rinse and Air Dry
5. Braid out to style

My wild untamed braid out! :)

To co-wash I applied the conditioner to my damp hair working from ends to mid-length first, and then working the conditioner to my roots. I gave myself a nice scalp massage and rinsed with warm water.

I've co-washed twice so far and my initial review is that this product is amazing. It feels more like a moisturizing conditioner than a strengthening conditioner and has a similar feel and fragrance like the Tresemme Naturals.

When I reach 5 washes I will take a closer look at my hair and see if I notice any damage repair or a just an overall increase in hair health.

The first five ingredients are water, cetearyl alcohol, dimethicone, stearamidopropyl, and dimethylamine. 

This product is not all natural but it does contain key ingredients that gives a really great slip, adds moisture, and gives the hair a smooth finish.

The Platinum Strength Conditioner runs anywhere between $5 and $6. If you are on a hair journey and a budget, this is an affordable product. There are 25 ounces in one bottle and unless you have a heavy hand, the conditioner should go a long way.

I truly love it and I am excited to try other Tresemme products that I have purchased.

My first braid out since 2013. 

What co-washing conditioners are you enjoying right now?

Blessings and Happy Hair Journey

~Candra

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30 Day Hair Health Challenges Endings and Beginnings

I participated in yet another challenge... hosted by Just Grow Already and RelaxedThairapy!

30 Days of Moisture Challenge (September 2014)

Dry hair used to be a consistent problem for me. In the past it hindered my hair from growing beyond shoulder length. Behind dryness follows split ends and breakage. All hair grows but if it is splitting and breaking at the same time, you will barely see a difference in the length of your hair.

I used the following techniques to achieve ultimate moisture during the 30 moisture day challenge. One or two of them are a bit out of the ordinary and probably #teamtoomuch. Haha…

1. Bunning

I did more protective styling the last 30 days which allowed me to moisturize and seal my hair daily without worry of having weighed down hair. When my hair is in an updo, I can be liberal with product without compromising style. My moisturizers of choice were rosewater, Elasta QP Olive Oil and Mango Butter, and Cantu Shea Butter Leave-In.

2. Deep Conditioning with Coconut Oil

I implemented this into my regimen during Hairlista’s coconut oil challenge. Coconut oil added to my deep conditioners makes my hair incredibly soft and eliminated brittle hair.

3. Hydrating throughout the day with water

On the days I wore my hair down and straight, I frequently hydrated my hair with water. Every few hours I’d go to the sink (at home or work), place my hands under running water, rub the water in my hands (shaking off access H2O) and apply to my hair like a product. It was just enough hydration to soften up hair and keep my ends moisturized. #TeamTooMuch ;)

4. Moisturizing and Green House Effect Under My Hats

Last winter I did a video on how I moisturize, seal, and wrap my hair under hats. I leave a little bang out in the front, but the rest of my hair is hid away. We had a few cool days here in Ohio, so this worked perfect! 

This was a great way lock in moisture and even do the green house effect (GHE) during day while running errands. I GHE by sealing with either sunflower oil, almond oil, JBCO, or hemp seed oil to my hair. I then place a shower cap over my hair to trap in heat. You can do all of this under an amazingly cute hat and the world will never know! :) 

So what challenges am I beginning and continuing in October?

• 30 Days Without Direct Heat Challenge... Hosted by Just Grow Already, Relaxed Thairapy, and Grow It Girl.
• 30 Day Water Challenge... Hosted by hair vlogger, Kay Amoah
• Thickness Challenge... Hosted by Amanda on Hairlista (Ends in December)
• Healthy Ends Challenge... Hosted by Amanda on Hairlista (Ends in December)

Over all, I am beyond satisfied with all the challenges I have participated in thus far in 2014. My hair has grown like never before! 

Blessings and Happy Hair Journey!

~Candra

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Moisturize & Seal Hair with Rosewater & Coconut Oil. Misto Olive Oil Sprayer.

This moisture and seal technique features the Misto Olive Oil Sprayer, rosewater and coconut oil. Moisturizing and sealing my relaxed hair often is a must. It shields my hair from dryness and breakage. Sealing with a natural carrier oil locks in the moisture.

This technique may not work for everyone depending on your hair and how you plan to style it. It works great for me when I am wearing my up in protective styles and not concerned about my hair being weighed down. Although, just a little bit of rosewater and coconut oil go a long way.

In the morning my hair is soft and ready for an up-do!

You can find the Misto Olive Oil Sprayer on Amazon or Bed Bath and Beyond. I found it a bit cheaper at my local Marshalls' for $7.99. The Misto Olive Oil Sprayer is perfect for applying a light application of oil to your hair and it is less messy than applying oil with your hands.

This is a very quick process and my "go to" when I need to moisturize and seal my hair quickly. Most days I still moisturize my hair with the Elasta QP Olive Oil Mango Butter Moisturizer and alternate between almond oil, sunflower oil and hemp seed oil for sealing.

The Misto Olive Oil Sprayer is also great for applying coconut oil to your skin. Coconut oil softens the skin and has anti-aging properties! And keep in mind that coconut oil turns to a solid state when temperatures reach below 76 degrees farenheight. If storing coconut oil in your Misto Sprayer, keep in a warm place.

Watch this short video to see this technique and view the benefits of using rosewater and coconut oil! Thank you for watching!






Blessings and Happy Hair Journey!

~Candra

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13 Weeks Post Relaxer Mid Week Wash Day

I honestly have to say that as much as I love wash days, there are some days when it is simply a chore. On these days it's tempting to take short cuts, but I try to overcome the urge as much as possible. :D

Pre-Poo - Coconut Oil

When I got home from work I took my hair down (was wearing a halo flat twist protective style), and applied coconut oil to my hair with my new Misto Oil Sprayer. (The jury is still out on how I like using the sprayer.) I then twisted my hair back up and went for a run.


Shampoo - Nutress Hair Stop Break Sulfate Free Shampoo

This is my all time favorite sulfate free shampoo. It contains protein and aloe. It has an incredible amount of slip and leaves my hair soft. I'll do a more detailed review in a later post.


Deep Condition - Giovanni 2Chic Ultra-Moist Deep Deep Moisture Hair Mask and Coconut Oil

The Giovanni moisture mask contains avocado and olive oil. I blended the mask with 1 1/2 tablespoons of coconut oil and wore a heat cap for about 45 minutes.

Leave-Ins - Rosewater, Aphogee Keratin and Green Tea Restructurizer, and Elasta QP Olive Oil and Mango Leave in Conditioner

I applied my leave-ins in the above order. I targeted the rosewater to my scalp and did a mini massage in an effort to stimulate hair growth.

After this I knew I wanted to air dry but was at a loss on how I wanted to proceed with styling. Don't you hate those days?


Style

I air dried and after my hair was about 80% dry I applied some Organic Moroccan Argan Oil Serum made by Spring Valley. I did four Bantu knots (1 on each side and 2 in the back) and went to bed.

The next morning I took my Bantu knots out and the results were so-so.

However, my curls were more defined than I thought considering I didn't use a styling custard or pudding of any kind. I did have a bit of frizz.

Overall this wash day was fairly successful. My new growth at 13 weeks post relaxer is definitely something to contend with, but the continued use of coconut oil and product favorites makes it bearable.

Thanks so much for reading and if you believe this article may help someone, please share! If you any questions please leave them below.

Blessings and Happy Hair Journey!

~Candra

Wash Day With Oils and Conditioners Only

Tomorrow is my scheduled "full" wash day but yesterday I went running and had a pretty sweaty workout. My hair hates perspiration and since I perspired so excessively, I decided to throw in an extra wash day.

My initial plan was to do a quick cleanse with a conditioner (co-wash), but since my hair has been loving oils, I thought I'd try something new!

So last night I cleansed by my hair using a combination of oils and conditioners only. It made for a quick and easy wash day and the results really surprised me.

I started by pre-treating my hair with coconut oil for about an hour while cooking dinner.

I then hopped in the shower, rinsed the coconut oil out completely with very warm water and co-washed my hair using the Herbal Essences The Sleeker The Butter conditioner.

It smells nice, it's thick and creamy, but it lacks the slip I love in a conditioner. I've been reaching for it lately just to finish it up. 

After rinsing the Herbal Essences conditioner thoroughly from my hair, I applied organic hemp oil to my hair for an oil rinse.

I put my hemp oil in a separate applicator bottle and keep the rest in the kitchen. My hubby has been taking it internally for its nutritional and Omega benefits. I'm the shallow one who uses it on her hair. Lol...

After a few minutes I applied Tresemme' Naturals conditioner on top of the hemp oil and proceeded to rinse.

When I rinse my hair I like to make sure that the product is completely rinsed out before proceeding to the next step. My hair was soft like butter!

For a deep condition I used the Neutrogena Triple Moisture Pure Strength Conditioning Treatment. I left it in for the duration of my shower and then rinsed with cool water. 

The NTM Pure Strength Conditioning Treatment is a great product that leaves my strong. I wish I could repurchase it locally, but since my passing in the night with it at Big Lots, I haven't seen it anywhere. :(

My leave in conditioner is the Elasta QP Olive Oil and Mango Butter Leave in Conditioner. I applied this after letting my hair air dry just a bit.

And for my last oil of the night, I bring to you my Key West Jamaican black castor oil.

Since I planned to air dry and wear my hair in a bun, I sealed with JBCO which is a heavier oil. I love this oil for sealing my ends and edges especially.

Once my hair was about 70% dry, I combed my hair back and installed two small flexi rods for some curl and went to bed. In the morning my hair was completely dry and super soft.

12 Weeks Post Relaxer

I removed the flexi rods and decided to throw on a head band and just let my curls hang loose instead!


Wash Day Recap...My OCOCCCO method...Haha...

1. Oil (PrePoo)
2. Conditioner (CoWash)
3. Oil and Conditioner (Rinse)
5. Conditioner (Deep)
6. Conditioner (Leave In)
7. Oil (Seal)

Over all I was very pleased with my hair's response to an oil and conditioner only wash day... especially at 12 weeks post relaxer!
Detangling was easy and my hair is soft and moisturized.

If you would like a full review on any product mentioned just leave me a comment below!

Blessings and Happy Hair Journey!

~Candra

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Natural Deodorant Using Coconut Oil

This is my last "DIY in July" post but no worries. As I try new homemade beauty recipes for the hair and skin, I will continue to share them here on the blog!

Natural (2 ingredient) Deodorant Featuring Coconut Oil 

Extra Virgin Coconut Oil is all natural and has properties that kill odor causing bacteria. That makes this deodorant a natural and healthy way to treat the skin under your arms.

I use this deodorant daily and prefer it over deodorants purchased off the shelf. It is less expensive, not filled with ingredients I can't pronounce and it's very effective! I exercise often and sometimes find myself in high stress situations, so I need something that works.

Many people use coconut oil alone as a deodorant, but for my DIY, I am adding baking soda to assist in controlling wetness and absorbing odor.

That's right. You only need two ingredients!

1. Coconut Oil

2. Baking Soda

You will also need a mixing bowl, measuring tool, a spoon for mixing, and a container to store your homemade deodorant.

The quantity of coconut oil and baking soda depends on how much deodorant you would like to make. I find that using equals parts of coconut oil and baking soda makes a nice blend that is easy to apply.

Today I am using 1/8 cup of coconut oil and 1/8 cup of baking soda.

After you place both ingredients in a bowl, mix until they are well blended.

At this point, you may add a few drops of essential oil. Lavender and lemon oil are great for the skin and adds a nice fragrance. Bergamot oil is another favorite for homemade deodorants. It has disinfectant properties and fights against germs that cause body odor.

Today, I'm keeping it simple. I love simple... especially if it is just as effective. Plus, the coconut oil alone smells amazing!

Once your deodorant is well blended, it is ready to pour into a container.

I am recycling an old body butter container. When I finish up butters and lotions that I purchase from a store, I hold on to the containers for DIY projects. It's a nice way to recycle!

Once you pour it into your container your deodorant is complete! No, this is not your traditional solid. The consistency reminds me of a roll on type deodorant but a bit thicker.  

After I shower, I dip two fingers into the deodorant and massage it into my underarms. A little goes a long way so you don't need a big scoop.

If you are unsure how your skin will respond or you are prone to allergies, do a small skin test first. Also I found that using coconut oil alone (without baking soda) is more soothing to my skin immediately after shaving. 

I seal the deodorant with a lid and store it in a cool place. This homemade natural deodorant will leave the skin under your arms feeling smooth, clean, and fragrant. 

Have you tried this or a similar homemade deodorant? How did it work for you?

Here's to healthy skin the natural way!

~Candra

Suave Professionals Moroccan Infusion Shine Collection Review

For the last 2 months I have been using the Suave Professionals Moroccan Infusion line. I purchased these products as a set from Walmart. The Suave ultimate shine collection includes the...

• Moroccan Shine Shampoo
• Moroccan Shine Conditioner
• Moroccan Deep Conditioning Shine Mask
• Moroccan Argan Styling Oil

How I Use Each Product... 

(Because sometimes I like to tweak a product to get even better results.)

Suave Moroccan Shine Shampoo ($4-$5 for 28 fluid oz.)

I use the shampoo to remove access build up of oil and products on my scalp and hair. The shampoo contains sulfates but is very moisturizing. I pre-treat my hair first with coconut oil for 20 minutes to overnight. This keeps my hair from being completely stripped of its natural oils.

The shampoo smells wonderful and adds shine to my hair.

Suave Moroccan Shine Conditioner ($4-$5 for 28 fluid oz.)

This is the product that I use most often. I use the conditioner to co-wash (washing hair with conditioner only) and as a rinse out conditioner after a protein treatment. The texture is light, creamy, and I experience very good slip when I use it.

Suave Professionals Natural Moroccan Infusion Collection

Suave Moroccan Deep Conditioning Shine Mask ($2-$3 for 8 oz.)

The shine mask is my favorite of the four products from the Moroccan Infusion collection. I use the mask as a deep conditioning treatment. Since I am still participating in Hairlista's Coconut Oil Challenge, I do add at least two teaspoons of coconut oil to the conditioning mask. I condition with heat under a hooded dryer for about fifteen minutes and the results are amazing!

The mask leaves my hair super soft, moisturized and easy to detangle. Now that I am about 10 weeks post relaxer, it's clear that my new growth also loves this mask.

Suave Moroccan Argan Styling Oil ($5-$6 for 3 fluid oz.)

I use the Argan styling oil as a leave in on my wet hair. The oil adds even more shine and locks in moisture because it keeps the cuticles smooth. I apply about two pumps of the oil for each side of my hair. The oil is very light and doesn't weigh my hair down.

The entire line has the same amazing scent. When I use all four products in one wash day, the fragrance lingers in my hair for a long time...it smells SO GOOD!

Final Thoughts...

I do have to offer a disclaimer with this review. My participation in Hairlista's Coconut Oil Challenge has drastically changed the health of my hair. Therefore, I am using these products without a lot of issues with dryness, breakage, or shedding. 

This line from Suave is formulated for dry, damaged hair. Based on customer reviews around the web, I would definitely recommend this product line for healthy or damaged hair. 

I am very excited that Suave is producing high quality products at low price points. Unit prices may vary depending on where you purchase, but overall the cost is very affordable. 

Will I Repurchase???

I will repurchase both conditioners and the styling oil. A little of the oil goes a long way, so I won't need to buy this again for awhile. As for the conditioners, I tend to be a bit of a conditioner hog in the shower. I will be repurchasing both very soon. (Smile) The shampoo is nice, but I have a few shampoos in my stash that I love just as much if not more, so I have no plans to repurchase the Shine shampoo.

If you do a little Googling, you may find active coupons and opportunities to get free samples!

I give the Suave Professionals Natural Moroccan Infusion line two thumbs up! Click here to view other products in their Infusion line.

Blessings and Happy Hair Growing!

~Candra

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Coconut Oil and Honey Lemon Facial Scrub ~ DIY In July

Last week I shared my DIY Almond and Coconut Oil Cake body scrub. Thank you all so much for the questions, comments, and retweets!

Today I am celebrating DIY in July by making my favorite facial scrub. 

The makeup of this scrub is very cleansing and moisturizing for my combination skin. Other than my t-zone (which can be extremely oily), I tend to have normal to dry skin.

This recipe is fairly common but most importantly, it's easy. It is very likely that you can find these ingredients already in your kitchen. So let's get started!

Use organic, extra virgin, all natural products for best results.

The Ingredients You Will Need:

1. Honey - Honey is a natural humectant that is rich in antioxidants. The honey will draw moisture to your skin and keep the moisture locked in. Honey also helps our skin fight against signs of aging. Not that you or I have to worry about that. ;)

2. Lemon Juice - The combination of the lemon juice and honey together helps make this scrub beneficial for all skins types, oily to dry. While the honey hydrates, the juice from the lemon removes excess oil from the skin. Lemon juice will leave your skin bright and its healing properties can reduce the appearance of scars.

3. Coconut Oil - Coconut oil is optional here but I cannot do without it. Coconut oil was a skin savior during the harsh cold temperatures we had last winter. I had random dry patches on my face and coconut oil was the only thing I had in my skin care stash that gave my skin relief. Coconut oil moisturizes and makes my skin extremely soft. It has anti-fungal properties and fights against signs of aging. Good-bye wrinkles!

4. Brown Sugar - This is also optional. If you omit the brown sugar and apply the mix of coconut oil, lemon, and honey, you will still have a lovely facial mask. I like to add a bit of brown sugar to get some exfoliating action going. This gives my face a clean fresh feeling. I prefer the brown over white sugar or salt, because it feels less harsh on my face.

Mix together...

~ 1/2 of a large lemon

~ 1 1/2 tablespoons of honey

~ 1 teaspoon of coconut oil

Stir in about 1 teaspoon of brown sugar.

Make sure all of your ingredients are blended well before applying to face.

Your facial scrub is complete! This is easy, fast, and incredibly inexpensive!

I evenly distribute the scrub on my face with my fingers and give my skin a gentle massage. I let the scrub sit for a minute or two and rinse with cool water. Rinsing your face with water that is too hot or too cold could be damaging to your skin. Gently pat your face dry and enjoy your beautiful skin!

Blessings!

~Candra

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DIY in JULY ~ Almond and Coconut Oil Cake Body Scrub

It's DIY in JULY on Relaxed Hair Beauty! ~ Today I am sharing with you my Almond and Coconut Oil Cake body scrub. It is super simple to make and there are many ways you can recreate this scrub to make it your own. The benefits of sugar scrubs go well beyond what I describe in this post. I love it and I hope you will too.

Ingredients and Measurements:

1 1/4 Cup - White or Brown Sugar
1/4 Cup - Almond Oil
1/4 Cup - Coconut Oil
1/2 Teaspoon - Vitamin E Oil
1/8 Teaspoon - Lemon Essential Oil
1/4 Teaspoon - Vanilla Flavoring
1 Glass Container with Lid

The sugar in the scrub exfoliates dead skin cells leaving your body with a smooth and healthy glow. I prefer sugar over salt scrubs because sugar is more gentle on my skin. Exfoliating the skin makes way for the moisture and healing properties of Coconut, Almond, and Vitamin E oils.

Lemon essential oil is known for cleansing toxins from all parts of the body. And the vanilla flavor? Well that's just for my aromatic pleasure. (Smile)

I am reusing a salsa jar for this batch of scrub. It is a glass container and comes with a twist on lid. You can also find reasonably prices containers at your local Dollar Tree or discount store.

I pour in the sugar and follow up with my oils and vanilla flavoring. The lemon essential oil and vanilla flavor gives this scrub a sweet delicious scent. When I first showed this scrub to my husband, he said, "Mmmm, it smells like cake." Hence the name, "Almond and Coconut Oil Cake Body Scrub". ;)

After all of your ingredients are in the jar. Take a spoon and give your scrub a good stir.

If the consistency of the scrub is too oily, you can always add a bit more sugar. If the scrub is too dry, add more coconut oil a little at a time until you get the blend that you prefer.

I use my scrub at the end of my shower time. Using a scoop, I dig in my jar and apply the scrub from neck to toe exfoliating my skin thoroughly. I use a different scrub for my face...recipe coming soon.

I then rinse the scrub with water and my skin is left feeling moisturized, silky, and glowing!

Be careful when exiting the shower. The oil from the scrub can possibly make your tub a bit slippery. I haven't had that happen yet, but just be warned.

If you plan on giving your DIY scrubs away as gifts, create a label to place on the outside of the jar listing the ingredients inside. And don't forget to include a scoop with your scrub. This will keep the scrub sanitary.

I also love using pepper oil, lavender oil, and orange oil in my scrubs. Instead of white sugar, you can use brown sugar, or even coffee. As you create your own DIY beauty masterpieces make sure to do your research. You want to create the perfect products that will be good for your skin type.

Almond and Coconut Oil Cake Body Scrub ~ Enjoy!

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DIY In July and Coconut Oil Giveaway!

It's DIY in July here on Relaxed Hair Beauty... Yes I know it is still June but I am on a coconut oil high! My coconut oil challenge with Hairlista continues and since I have so much coconut oil in the house, I have been in the kitchen mixing up some wonderful hair and skin products.

Coconut oil is an all-round amazing product. I love it so much that I refuse to pay a fortune on beauty products anymore. With coconut oil, I get results that are comparable to or even better than the skin and hair products I have purchased online or in store. 

So coming up in July I will be featuring my favorite DIY coconut oil beauty recipes! These recipes are great for relaxed or natural hair, and coconut oil works wonders for the skin.

Be sure to subscribe to receive my latest posts and also to enter my first blog giveaway here at Relaxed Hair Beauty! Scroll down below to enter!

All of our blog readers will have a chance to win a 14 ounce jar of Simple Truth Organic Virgin Coconut Oil (Unrefined Cold Pressed)!

Upcoming "DIY in July" beauty recipes with Coconut Oil:

*Shaving Oil

*Facial Scrubs

*Body Scrubs

*Deep Conditioners

*All Natural Deodorant (I know what you're thinking but it really works! Haha..)

*And more....

Stay tuned for DIY in July!

~Candra

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