Hair Grooming Issues

[dawnss]

Hi everyone, I feel somewhat awkard posting this question, but this is something that I have been struggling with for a while. I have been having some health issues that make it very difficult for me to style my natural, thick 4b hair. I hope this may not seem invasive, but can anyone offer me any tips, I am really being serious here.

There are times where even braiding my hair makes my arms feel sore (like when you do too many pushups) and my hair is only to my neck when french braided and almost apl when straight. I am really sorry if this question is too self centered, but I have been considering getting a bkt (Brazilian Keratin Treatment, but the kind that is non permanent) or a hair relaxer. I suffer from some pretty intense weakness that makes it hard for me to grip things so I need quick styles and things that won't cause such wear and tear on my hands and arms. Are there any ways I can streamline my haircare process? Thanks and have a great day!!!!

Oh I should probably mention that this thread is not just limited to type 4 hair lol, if anyone has issues with grooming themself or with someone else who has trouble then I am all ears. Or if anyone just needs to vent about the struggles they have with personal grooming then let's all hear it.

Thanks once again!

[Laur]

I don't have anything anywhere near thick, 4b hair - my average thickness 2a-ish hair is pretty starkly different from what you're dealing with. That said, I've gone through periods with my joints where having my hands over my head is just /painful/, and where scrunching curls is nearly impossible due to joint pain in my fingers. During those times, I got really proficient in various log-roll twists and fast buns, or just pulled-through ponytails. Basically I picked a few styles that I could do quickly and got REALLY good at them, so I didn't have to try wearing my hair down (and therefore combing it) or doing anything particularly fancy with it. I also wore a lot of octopus clip buns (where you just kinda make a bun and then put a big ol' octopus clip over it and forget its there the rest of the day).

Hair is nice, but it's important to be kind to your body and listen to it. Don't put yourself in pain!

[Faux]

I have scoliosis and I totally understand. I have to take pain meds to do my hair. Its something you should consider. If you can't do basic grooming, that's not fair to you. The problem isn't your hair, its your underlying condition. You need to treat that first. I will always have pain, so I take opiates. It allows me to do normal things. Sometimes I have to double up to wash my hair, but I get it done. I like to flat iron my hair and wear it down. With 4b, I think you could possibly just put in a curl/frizz serum and have beautiful curls!

[julierockhead]

Faux is right. Legally you have the right to have your pain managed, and unfortunately many health care professionals seriously neglect pain treatment, and underestimate the pain their patients suffer. Also, many patients have it in their heads that pain is natural, it's just a part of what they have, they should learn to live with it, etc. Please don't be that patient! Ask about pain management, explain your problems with tasks of daily living. and if you get the blow-off, move on to another doctor or insist on being referred to a pain specialist.

How often do you wash? You might be able to find an affordable beauty shop that will massage your scalp, wash or co-wash, condition, and braid your hair for you once or twice a week. That kind of activity can help reduce pain, also, if the shop is quiet and the people are good.

Don't feel like this question is self centered or selfish. Being groomed and getting adequate pain relief will make a huge difference in your quality of life.

[torrilin]

Echoing the other posters on pain. Left untreated, my menstrual cramps cause such severe pain that I end up vomiting from it. This is really unhealthy. What you're going through may not seem so bad, but it's still interfering seriously with your life.

As far as the hair thing... I don't have a lot of useful suggestions since I'm a 1c, and 4 type hair is radically different from what I have. I know from my own hair that some styles are very stable and will hold up for days on end. They may not be as pretty on day 4 as they were on day 1, but they will last that long. And I know from listening to other very curly ladies talking about their hair styling that it can be very worthwhile to use styles that last for days, partly because type 4 hair often goes along with a fine texture and very dry skin (both of which I have, tho not necessarily to the degree that a curlier person might). Excess handling and excess washing can be very hard on such hair. It can even be worthwhile to have a hair stylist "do" your hair in a style that stays well to take some stress off yourself. All of these things can also be a good way to help manage your pain.

Please don't feel bad about needing help either. One of the really nasty things I've found with my own pain is it leaves me feeling worthless and like no one cares or should care about me. Pain really messes with your head, and it can make you very crazy.

[brave]

With 4b, I think you could possibly just put in a curl/frizz serum and have beautiful curls!

That still leaves the issue of combing through in the shower, etc. My sister has the same hair type and it's not really a "scrub quick, leave-in, and go" texture unless it's short enough that you're not worried about dreading.

Are you completely against leaving it in twists for weeks at a time? Maybe you could have a friend help style it? I don't think it's too self centered to want to get it relaxed or treated, but those have their own issues.

[dawnss]

Thanks everyone, I will be honest the doctors do not know what is causing my sypmtoms but I've had quite a few tests ran, all of which are coming back normal. I am feeling more pain than I usually do, they think they know what is going on. If anything it is the tingling and walking issues that are the most bothersome, I have pain pills but I can't receive medication for the tingling because the doctors don't know what's causing it ): and that sucks because it isn't fun feeling weird sensations lol, but I try to find laughter in it all.

I actually like the idea of getting my hair braided weekly. My hair and gel are a hit and miss lol, sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn't, especially because I have some sections of hair that are heat damaged lol. I have flat ironed my hair a few times, but braiding it is still an issue even when it is straight. I try other styles but even if I do not feel pain I get pretty winded. One thing that does help me though is splitting up my routine so I may wash and condition one day, and then I style the next.

I just want to thank everyone once again, this really helps to know that other people have some personal grooming issues. I will say that one of the most amazing things about everything that has happened to me thus far is that I am starting to understand what other people go through more, three and a half months ago I never thought that walking or standing, at times, or even braiding my hair would be an issue. To everyone who lives this everyday and who has to face this, or caregivers of those who have some form of a disability I really commend you because most people, my age at least (I'm 21), don't have to deal with any of these struggles. I hope what I said was not offensive lol and if it was then I am truly sorry.

[dawnss]

That still leaves the issue of combing through in the shower, etc. My sister has the same hair type and it's not really a "scrub quick, leave-in, and go" texture unless it's short enough that you're not worried about dreading.

Are you completely against leaving it in twists for weeks at a time? Maybe you could have a friend help style it? I don't think it's too self centered to want to get it relaxed or treated, but those have their own issues.

Twists take a very long time for me to complete, about an hour or so and lots of manipulation with my fingers, but I am not adverse to doing them on the days I feel well enough (:

[brave]

Twists take a very long time for me to complete, about an hour or so and lots of manipulation with my fingers, but I am not adverse to doing them on the days I feel well enough (:

I know for my sister, depending on the size of twists, it can take upwards of four hours to complete, but then they last for almost a month. My mom was the one doing it though, so I can't quite imagine having to do that yourself if you have pain. She has very thick 4b hair as well.

One thing you might already be doing, but should definitely try if you're not, is leaving all your conditioner in after a wash, not drying your hair, and brushing through it with a denman brush -- the kind without balls at the end, on a flexible rubber base. Usually detangling my sister's hair is an hour-long process but it goes very quickly this way and she doesn't seem to get damage from it. If that works well maybe you would be able to do wash and gos?

[luxepiggy]

Have you tried doing a dutch braid? It's very similar to the french braid, except you cross the outside strands over the center strand, instead of under. As a result, you don't need to grip the strands as tightly to keep the braid going. You can even let go of one strand after bringing it to the center.

My hairtype is the opposite of yours, but because my hair is so slippery, french braiding is a real struggle for me. I have to grip the strands very firmly and keep everything under tension, otherwise it all just slithers apart. It takes me about 15 minutes just to get a decent french braid down to my nape, but I can do a dutch braid in less than 5.

[dawnss]

Brave your sister's hair sounds awesome, even when I use my best detangling conditioner (and Redken's Smooth Down is AMAZING) I still spend at least thirty minutes detangling. I use my Denman's (I have two) when as the last two combs/brushes (whatever you consider them) last that way they glide through my hair easier and I can get rid of all the shed hair. I think I will go back to twists mainly because I can take a few days to do those!!

[dawnss]

Have you tried doing a dutch braid? It's very similar to the french braid, except you cross the outside strands over the center strand, instead of under. As a result, you don't need to grip the strands as tightly to keep the braid going. You can even let go of one strand after bringing it to the center.

My hairtype is the opposite of yours, but because my hair is so slippery, french braiding is a real struggle for me. I have to grip the strands very firmly and keep everything under tension, otherwise it all just slithers apart. It takes me about 15 minutes just to get a decent french braid down to my nape, but I can do a dutch braid in less than 5.

So that's a Dutch Braid, no I haven't done one, though I have heard of them. I think that would be a really cool style to try one day, thanks!

[Aliped]

It helps me to be sitting down to style my hair. Sometimes I sit at a table, resting my elbows on the table top for support - then lower my head to style my hair.

[julierockhead]

Thanks everyone, I will be honest the doctors do not know what is causing my sypmtoms but I've had quite a few tests ran, all of which are coming back normal. I am feeling more pain than I usually do, they think they know what is going on. If anything it is the tingling and walking issues that are the most bothersome, I have pain pills but I can't receive medication for the tingling because the doctors don't know what's causing it ): and that sucks because it isn't fun feeling weird sensations lol, but I try to find laughter in it all.

You are at an age when MS often hits, have you been screened for that?

[dawnss]

It helps me to be sitting down to style my hair. Sometimes I sit at a table, resting my elbows on the table top for support - then lower my head to style my hair.

Yeah I use a barstool, when I know that I will be doing a style that takes a long time.

[lacefrost]

You ever try two strand twists? They're much faster and easier than traditional braiding. As your hair grows longer, it'll be much easier to style, I promise.

[dawnss]

You ever try two strand twists? They're much faster and easier than traditional braiding. As your hair grows longer, it'll be much easier to style, I promise.

I do two strand twists, but they take a lot of time, especially if I want them to last longer than two-three days without getting frizzy. If someone knows of a faster way for them to get done, then I'd do them more. Maybe my technique is lacking.

[BlazingHeart]

People here are pretty awesome about responding to other members' needs. I actually recently asked people for help with disability-related hair issues, and got a bunch of comments. I don't know how on-point a lot of them will be for you, but I figured it would be worth a link: http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/showthread.php?t=93594

Unfortunately, you may find that looking less than ideal is part of how you deal with it. I know for me, it has to be. I'm just not able to do more than brush sometimes. One thing someone in that thread mentioned was propping up your arm and moving your head rather than moving your hands.

I was wondering, have you tried a peacock twist? You gather all of your hair like you're doing a ponytail, twist and fold it up against your head, and clip in place with a claw-clip or barrette.

~Blaze

[dawnss]

Thanks, I am going to take a look at the link you posted me BlazingThread!! Everyone I can't even begin to thank you all for the help you have given me (: I haven't done anything to my hair because I am doing my research paper (I have a presentation due Thursday and I slept way too long last Saturday lol). But tomorrow when I wash, condition, and detangle my hair I have a feeling that things will be somewhat easier.

This may seem strange BlazingThreadm but I never thought about just moving my head around, that way my arms and hands don't have to take as much of a beating. Since I have type four hair, if I am going to keep it natural (as in not straight), then I have to do something to it because of shrinkage ): because it is only up to my ears. If I blow dry and flat iron it, then I have more styling options, thats why I've been reconsidering a relaxer and a bkt.

For now though, I want to deal with my hair a little more while it is in its natural state and then I will go from there. Besides my arms hurt braiding it even when it is straight lol, go figure. I have no idea how some of you (men and women) deal with hair that is long.

Once again, thank you soo much!!!! I was wondering are there any shortcuts anyone here takes? I noticed that I like applying my deep conditioner before I shampoo, that cuts out the time that I have to detangle my hair, it hurts my back sitting in the bathtub for 30+ minutes trying to detangle my hair. I also notice that evening applying oil before I wash and detangling my hair with my fingers makes wash day soo much easier. Ok I am rambling, sorry.

[barely.there]

my MIL has problems doing updo's with her hair. its a weird nerve thing in her shoulder/arm. her son (my husband) has the same problem.

her hair is pretty pin straight, although she usually gets perms to give it more body so that she can have her updo's hold in better.

I am unsure if you should get your hair permed straight. that is up to you completely. You need to do what is best for you. Like I said, my MIL perms her hair curly - its what works best for her.

I will echo what a few others have already said: learn a few basic hairdo's that do not take much effort to accomplish, and get really good at them. The idea of getting it braided weekly is also a good idea.

[Tisiloves]

I second the idea that relaxing your hair may make it much harder to put up. Have you thought about getting micro-braids or something, my friend only gets hers done every 6 weeks or so and they seem pretty easy to handle.

[Venefica]

I have big fat arms, this is how I do it. I sit in the sofa and lean back so that my back is against the arm rest a bit up. I can then braid without having to lift my arms to high for to long, that works for me.

[dawnss]

If I was to get a relaxer, because I did have one a few years back I know that I can take care of my hair, I just have to be extra gentle with it (: I just have to make sure that I do heavy proteins, and that I moisturize my hair enough, and comb carefully. There nice because I have no shrinkage (:

I like microbraids but they take to long lol, no seriously they last longer than regular braids but they take literally hours (12+ hours easy) and I do not know how to do them, besides your hair gets frizzy so it is a trade off lol. It is nice though because I can wash my hair without worrying about detangling it or anything afterwards. Braids are easy to handle but it is not fun taking them out, regardless, I want to consider them especially with finals coming up in a few weeks, so I think that it may be an excellent option for the next few weeks.

[dawnss]

I have big fat arms, this is how I do it. I sit in the sofa and lean back so that my back is against the arm rest a bit up. I can then braid without having to lift my arms to high for to long, that works for me.

I like the idea of sitting in the sofa (:

[Charybdis]

dawnss, are locks (dreads) an option that would be acceptable for you professionally? (And personally, of course.) I don't have experience of what is required to get locks started, but it seems like they're a relatively low-maintenance option once you get going. In London I've been seeing some really lovely sets of long (like, waist-length) locks.

I hope your doctors are able to find treatments that help you. :flower:

[dawnss]

dawnss, are locks (dreads) an option that would be acceptable for you professionally? (And personally, of course.) I don't have experience of what is required to get locks started, but it seems like they're a relatively low-maintenance option once you get going. In London I've been seeing some really lovely sets of long (like, waist-length) locks.

I hope your doctors are able to find treatments that help you. :flower:

My sister recommened that I get locks lol, but with most peoples' aversion to them it may not be a good idea, especially because I want to get a job and there are just too many negative sterotypes that people have about those you have locks. It is already weird because some people have said some things about my hair type, I can't really imagine the negative things people would say about locks. Besides this may seem strange but doing my hair helps me relax, even though I feel pain from it sometimes, I really enjoy the process. Since that is the case I realized that I will have to just accept that my hair will require me to do more simple styles that last awhile and I will need to use my time more efficiently.

Thanks don't worry I will be fine (:

[dawnss]

Just wanted to say thanks everyone. I finally washed and conditioned my hair last night (: it was wasn't too bad! Here was the routine I used yesterday and it was amazing for me at least, if I might add.

1). I used redken butter treat, bioinfusion the professional conditioner, shea moisture hair masque (I can't remember which one), aloe vera gel, and NOW Foods sweet almond oil mixed together for a pre poo. I know that those are crazy amounts of products but I have finally found the right products for me, after starting my hair journey four-five years ago lol. Besides I have a bush on my hair and I need really moisture infused products to tame the beast lol lol jk jk.

2). Instead of doing a weekly cleansing with shampoo I used Vo5 tea tree clarifying conditioner with acv and baking soda mixed in. I have to say that I usually shampoo my scalp but my hair did not feel stripped.

3). Then I used redken all soft deep conditioner and combed that in and I have to say that I had the easiest time detangling my hair!!!!! It still took 30-60 minutes but it was a breeze, there weren't any scary crazy tangles!!!! (I should mention that when I comb I use three wide tooth combs and two denman brushes of seperate sizes, that way I can get out all of the tangles in my hair). I know it seems really excessive but with my really curly hair I have to make sure that I detangle it well because when the shed hair mixes in with the really tiny curls I have a huge problem on my hands.

From now on I think I am going to start using acv and baking soda in my conditioners that way I don't have to use my deep cleansing non-sulfate shampoo at least once a week.

This morning I rinsed the deep conditioner out of my hair, cowashed (I just want to make sure that my hair doesn't smell like vinegar and so I will not have to mess with it as much for school). After that I rinsed the conditioner. Applied Kinky curly knot today leave in, aloe vera juice mixed with a shea moisture product, shea moisture's curling cream, then a mixture of sweet almond oil and jojoba oil.

I know, I know that is a lot of products to apply but I make sure that I apply all four products to my hair meticiously (I seperate my hair into 6-8 sections). Then I combed out with my denman and fine tooth comb that way I don't have as many ssks to worry about. The hardest part was combing my hair and then braiding it (I'd do afro puffs but they tangle my hair so I have to do twists or braids for non tangled hair), physcially it is really taxing. I think that for Wednesday I will maybe use the conditioner to define my curls and then just call it a day, and then for Thursday and Friday I can wear a really huge bun like Adele (: thanks everyone!!!

[jacqueline101]

I don't know much about braids but I think all people get off track on their hair care at some point.

[lacefrost]

I do two strand twists, but they take a lot of time, especially if I want them to last longer than two-three days without getting frizzy. If someone knows of a faster way for them to get done, then I'd do them more. Maybe my technique is lacking.

All you have to do to keep them from getting frizzy is use something kind of thick to do them like shea or cocoa butter, and at night mist your hair and cover it with a scarf. During the day, wear your hair up and don't play with it. In this way even the worst braids look decent for a week +.

Also, do you wash your hair loose or while it's already braided? You mention you only scalp wash. I find that washing my hair while it's braided or twisted is just as easy, if not easier than when it's loose. And that really minimizes tangles. It takes me maybe 10 minutes to detangle my hair and another 30 to style it. After that I scarf it at night and wear it up during the day. (I wear my hair down at home)

[Helix]

Gosh dawnss, this one's a toughie for me. I kind of feel that if you are in a lot of pain, it's probably worth it to get someone else to do your hair for you when you're just not up to it. Your focus should be on keeping well...

If you do decide to get braids done, then I would suggest medium braids or larger only because micros aren't exactly hairline friendly. Not to mention the time it takes to install and take down, (not to mention shed hair removal). Medium sized braids are less stressful on your hairline if the parts are done right and you make sure they don't pull too tightly. 100% acrylic yarn braids/twists are way lighter than synthetic hair but if you don't like the look of locs you might not like them, (they almost look like locs). I think they're pretty though: http://lecoil.tumblr.com/post/8951296977/kat-of-vintage-kitty-at-the-brooklyn-museum


Also, are you opposed to wet bunning? It's pretty simple and takes less time than installing braids. Maybe, you could watch a few tutorials on youtube about wet bunning 4b hair. It's a lot quicker than putting in braids...

Anywho, it's your decision. If you want to relax, that's fine. Just make sure you are sure, because it's easier to go from natural to relaxed than the other way around. I hope you find something that eases the pain for you.

[sycamoreboutiqu]

>>Besides my arms hurt braiding it even when it is straight lol, go figure. I have no idea how some of you (men and women) deal with hair that is long. <<<

I have found it easier sometimes to do some braids by lying on the bed - on my back, with my head just partway hanging off the edge. This way I don't have to hold my arms straight up in the air above my head - they still get tired if it takes too long but not as fast as standing up.

Sometimes my neck gets tired doing this, so another option is to start the upper part of the braid lying down (especially a dutch where the detail is at the top) then stand up and finish the lower part.

Hope that helps.

[Littlewing13]

Ex hairdresser here... find yourself a good local hairdresser who understands long hair. Be clear, say: "If you cause too much damage or trim too much off I will never come back & I will say you're terrible". Harsh but hey its true. Hairdressers respect those who know what they want & comunicate clearly. Get your hair washed by them, bring your own products if you have to. Tell them your routine exactly. Then ask them to style it. Preferably in a style that you can wear for a few days to a week. If you find one you like then ask if they can do you a discount if you come regularly. Most hairdressers will be happy to negotiate as they want to keep your business.

[coneyisland]

Hi dawnss. I have limited ability to walk and very limited ability to stand. Neuro effects of illness affect all my extremities. Because of an old injury, I have very limited right arm use anyway. I must rest most of the time. More of my abilities are variable otherwise. My hair types range from wavy type 1 into the 3s.
　
My neck does most of the (rinsing) work in washing my hair. I have a Mason Pearson rake comb for detangling, but I also use an appreciably longer comb that gives me easier reach and is not damaged when I drop it. For the slippery conditions of combing conditioner through, I use the longer comb.

I can do only the simplest braids. More often I make buns secured with hairsticks or hairpins. Sometimes I just fold up the length of my hair and use an octopus clip to keep it up. When I go out I hide my hair under scarves. I am more concerned with having it detangled and protected than with having it tidy. Scarf use does help keep many hairstyles tidier for longer.

I have recently found this tutorial on setting hair in bandana waves. Sections of hair (not necessarily many sections) are wound in figure-eight fashion around a bent (or folded) rolled bandana. The fastening band is put around the bandana, not in contact with the hair ends. I am thinking of trying that, but with plenty of leave-in conditioner, and with silk instead of cotton, for lengthier no-maintenance storage of my hair. I am thinking that I could use an elastic headband and a scarf over it to hold up the extra weight. Perhaps it would work for you to keep your hair stretched out in looser curls?

http://rapunzelsresource.wordpress.com/2009/09/24/bandana-waves/

My moderately curly friend (3b/c) who is sulphate-sensitive has had better moisturized hair with using the Loreal Evercreme moisturizing shampoo. She has just this week found the moisturizing cleansing conditioner in that product line, and she expects that she will switch to that for one-step shampooing and conditioning. Perhaps that product would make your shampooing routine simpler?

Your hair type is so much more fragile. The chemical and heat straightening techniques make hair management easier for many, but there is great potential for severe damage.

I have observed professional braiders using glue on their customers' braids. We all know of dreadful consequences of braiding too tightly. I understand about wanting to manage your hair yourself. We cannot fairly expect others to take the same care in handling our hair as we do.

Best wishes for you to get appropriate treatment and have full recovery. :grouphug:

[QMacrocarpa]

Almost a year ago I injured the shoulder of my dominant arm and for a while I was pretty limited in the styles that I could accomplish. I don't know if these would work for you, but I toss them out for your consideration:

Pencil bun (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z0k3dD4qX34) secured with a Ficcare-ish cheap clip (very fast to do, and using the clip made it more stable than when I used a stick, so I didn't have to mess with it during the day). A peacock twist (http://frannyslonghair.blogspot.com/2010/04/this-is-quick-and-easy-hairstyle-for.html) would likely be similar as far as ease of execution and stability.

Side braid (so I didn't have to have my arms behind my head)

I'm also a big fan of simple octopus-clip styles, which I found fast and stable before I outgrew them :(. I'd just fasten the clip over all my hair for an instant bun.

I hope you get some ideas that work for you, and don't feel bad about asking for help! :blossom:

[dawnss]

Gosh dawnss, this one's a toughie for me. I kind of feel that if you are in a lot of pain, it's probably worth it to get someone else to do your hair for you when you're just not up to it. Your focus should be on keeping well...

If you do decide to get braids done, then I would suggest medium braids or larger only because micros aren't exactly hairline friendly. Not to mention the time it takes to install and take down, (not to mention shed hair removal). Medium sized braids are less stressful on your hairline if the parts are done right and you make sure they don't pull too tightly. 100% acrylic yarn braids/twists are way lighter than synthetic hair but if you don't like the look of locs you might not like them, (they almost look like locs). I think they're pretty though: http://lecoil.tumblr.com/post/8951296977/kat-of-vintage-kitty-at-the-brooklyn-museum


Also, are you opposed to wet bunning? It's pretty simple and takes less time than installing braids. Maybe, you could watch a few tutorials on youtube about wet bunning 4b hair. It's a lot quicker than putting in braids...

Anywho, it's your decision. If you want to relax, that's fine. Just make sure you are sure, because it's easier to go from natural to relaxed than the other way around. I hope you find something that eases the pain for you.

I am not opposed to wet bunning at all, in fact I prefer doing my hair wet because I can manipulate it easier. I have actually finally been able to flat twist my hair, which is nice because the hair stlye does not hurt my arms!!! I just wanted to say that I have been able to wear my hair curly when I use the kinky curly method to define my curls (and it only takes ten minutes!!!!). I just want to thank you oh Helix, I do wash my hair in sections especially when I shampoo because it not I would have a scary tangled monster to contend with lol.

[dawnss]

Almost a year ago I injured the shoulder of my dominant arm and for a while I was pretty limited in the styles that I could accomplish. I don't know if these would work for you, but I toss them out for your consideration:

Pencil bun (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z0k3dD4qX34) secured with a Ficcare-ish cheap clip (very fast to do, and using the clip made it more stable than when I used a stick, so I didn't have to mess with it during the day). A peacock twist (http://frannyslonghair.blogspot.com/2010/04/this-is-quick-and-easy-hairstyle-for.html) would likely be similar as far as ease of execution and stability.

Side braid (so I didn't have to have my arms behind my head)


I'm also a big fan of simple octopus-clip styles, which I found fast and stable before I outgrew them :(. I'd just fasten the clip over all my hair for an instant bun.

I hope you get some ideas that work for you, and don't feel bad about asking for help! :blossom:

I will be sure to do these styles when I wear my hair stretched, I can't do them now because of major shrinkage but they are definately options for straight hair. Thanks!!

[dawnss]

Hi dawnss. I have limited ability to walk and very limited ability to stand. Neuro effects of illness affect all my extremities. Because of an old injury, I have very limited right arm use anyway. I must rest most of the time. More of my abilities are variable otherwise. My hair types range from wavy type 1 into the 3s.
　
My neck does most of the (rinsing) work in washing my hair. I have a Mason Pearson rake comb for detangling, but I also use an appreciably longer comb that gives me easier reach and is not damaged when I drop it. For the slippery conditions of combing conditioner through, I use the longer comb.

I can do only the simplest braids. More often I make buns secured with hairsticks or hairpins. Sometimes I just fold up the length of my hair and use an octopus clip to keep it up. When I go out I hide my hair under scarves. I am more concerned with having it detangled and protected than with having it tidy. Scarf use does help keep many hairstyles tidier for longer.

I have recently found this tutorial on setting hair in bandana waves. Sections of hair (not necessarily many sections) are wound in figure-eight fashion around a bent (or folded) rolled bandana. The fastening band is put around the bandana, not in contact with the hair ends. I am thinking of trying that, but with plenty of leave-in conditioner, and with silk instead of cotton, for lengthier no-maintenance storage of my hair. I am thinking that I could use an elastic headband and a scarf over it to hold up the extra weight. Perhaps it would work for you to keep your hair stretched out in looser curls?

http://rapunzelsresource.wordpress.com/2009/09/24/bandana-waves/

My moderately curly friend (3b/c) who is sulphate-sensitive has had better moisturized hair with using the Loreal Evercreme moisturizing shampoo. She has just this week found the moisturizing cleansing conditioner in that product line, and she expects that she will switch to that for one-step shampooing and conditioning. Perhaps that product would make your shampooing routine simpler?

Your hair type is so much more fragile. The chemical and heat straightening techniques make hair management easier for many, but there is great potential for severe damage.

I have observed professional braiders using glue on their customers' braids. We all know of dreadful consequences of braiding too tightly. I understand about wanting to manage your hair yourself. We cannot fairly expect others to take the same care in handling our hair as we do.

Best wishes for you to get appropriate treatment and have full recovery. :grouphug:

Thanks!!! I usually just have my mom braid my hair, so there is no glue used on my tresses! I think that I should just start biting the bullet and just cowashing more with avc and baking soda mixed in, I really like shampooing my scalp though. You know I have never thought of using a silk scarf to stretch my curls, but I have used hair ties, french braids, and twists. I do use a silk scarf at night to help my hair look neater. Couldn't I just use my usual Vo5 clarifying conditioner instead of the new Loreal cleansing conditioner. I even have some diluted tea tree oil and jojoba oil that I could use on my scalp!! Oh the possibilities, I really think that I can make this work (:

[dawnss]

Ex hairdresser here... find yourself a good local hairdresser who understands long hair. Be clear, say: "If you cause too much damage or trim too much off I will never come back & I will say you're terrible". Harsh but hey its true. Hairdressers respect those who know what they want & comunicate clearly. Get your hair washed by them, bring your own products if you have to. Tell them your routine exactly. Then ask them to style it. Preferably in a style that you can wear for a few days to a week. If you find one you like then ask if they can do you a discount if you come regularly. Most hairdressers will be happy to negotiate as they want to keep your business.

I really think that this may be a good alternative, even if it is just every once and a while, thanks. I think I may have a little trouble communicating my needs but I can do it.

[dawnss]

>>Besides my arms hurt braiding it even when it is straight lol, go figure. I have no idea how some of you (men and women) deal with hair that is long. <<<

I have found it easier sometimes to do some braids by lying on the bed - on my back, with my head just partway hanging off the edge. This way I don't have to hold my arms straight up in the air above my head - they still get tired if it takes too long but not as fast as standing up.

Sometimes my neck gets tired doing this, so another option is to start the upper part of the braid lying down (especially a dutch where the detail is at the top) then stand up and finish the lower part.

Hope that helps.

Seriously, I never even thought about it. The nice thing is that I braid my hair quite regularly so I have a sneaky suspicision that I can easily do it while in the bed!!