I am learning a lot about what un-naturals and naturals alike are using to make their hair grow or quicker ways to twist their hair. Especially home made stuff that lots of people are trying and claim work. Here are some of the best and odd ones that I have found tons of information on.
1. Monistat (Miconazole Nitrate 2%) -Okay, uhm most folks know what this is. When I saw this as a growth simulator, I about died from laughter and hysterics. The first thing I thought was, "These women are putting yeast infection creme on their head!" But then after researching and seeing the many videos and articles on this, there are many happy people.
Monistat basically works like this. It helps to kill fungus that inhibits growth on your head and it oxygenates the scalp to increase blood flow. Many naturals and un-naturals either apply the cream to their scalp or dilute it in olive oil or conditioners. There are some side effects such as headaches, tingling, and irritation, but this is mainly for sensitive scalp.
My point of view- I made some of this stuff and mixed it with olive oil (later with olive oil and vitamin e). I put some on my scalp and it is tingling and a minor headache. This is one of the side effects. I do have a sensitive scalp, but it isn't burning but tingling. I will let you know if I will continue to use this.
2. Prenatal vitamins and Biotin- Many are using prenatal vitamins even though they are not expecting or planning on expecting in the near future. Prenatal vitamins contain minerals that promote healthy hair growth. Research has proved that the folate present in this vitamin stimulates hair growth and even regenerates certain cells in the scalp that have dried up in the past. Also, the presence of vitamin B has been proven to nourish and promote hair growth.
Biotin is even cooler. It is a vitamin that is produced by a bacteria in our body. The best part about this bad boy is that you can never have too much because your body automatically expels it. It can prevent hair loss, promote healthy full hair, and it works.
My point of view- I went to the pharmacy to ask my pharmacist which one would work better, the biotin or the prenatal. Although the biotin was totally cheaper, I was told to use the prenatal to grow out my hair. I will see how it works and give you my results at the end of February. I still plan on buying the biotin in the future, but I want to try one thing at a time.
3. Home made locking sponge- Now, there is a really cool tool out there call the Nu-dread locking sponge. The key to this tool is to apply the locking cream to short natural hair and taking the locking sponge (has holes at the bottom of it) and rub on your hair in a clock wise circular motion. I saw the videos on this and was just amazed with the end results. But as you know, someone is going to find an generic version to save money.
Some people are actually using a sponge with holes cut in the bottom to produce the same desired effects. It has worked for some and not for others, but I tell you I have seen it work for some with the same results.
My point of view- I got a sponge, poked some holes (didn't do it perfectly but makes sure the holes do not touch) and used conditioner and oil (some use locking oil/ wax) and rubbed the sponge around my damp hair. My hair is a TWA so I did see some curling, but not a lot. I did notice that there was a small amount of breakage because of the rubbing. I think I would either get the real things or do the old school twist.
Basically readers, there is a lot of information out there, but it is up to you to research, test, and see what works best for you. Everyone's hair is different and what works for you may not work for someone else. If it is hurting you, burning you, and not making you feel well..then stop. You only have one body, so treat it nice and well.
My regime-
Is to be good to myself and not worry about my hair tonight :)
