ACV (Apple Cider Vinegar) This ingredient is used as an anti – fungal/inflammatory treatment. An ACV detox rinse helps remove bacteria and excess product from the scalp and hair, leaving it shinier. Speak with your natural stylist about this treatment. AWS Andre Walker System. The renowned stylist to the stars Andre Walker classified hair textures into categories 1 – 4. Afro & Mixed textured hair start from 3A – 4C learning your hair type allows you to create an optimal hair care regimen specific to you. “Girl if you don’t know you betta ask somebody!” BC (Big Chop) This refers to completely cutting off chemically treated hair leaving behind only natural strands. Sometimes staring over seems daunting but that Transitioning journey is needed Sis. CO-WASH Here you cleanse the hair using conditioner rather than shampoo. DC (Deep Conditioning) To put it in simple terms DC helps put moisture back into the hair. This can be done by adding conditioner to the hair for an extended period of time also using some heat source to penetrate each hair strand. LOC or LCO With this Method we use three different products, Liquid - Oil - Conditioner or Liquid – Conditioner – Oil in that order. This method helps to seal in moisture into each hair strand. PRE-POO Basically conditioner is applied to the hair prior to cleansing with shampoo, all my NaturalistA’s know this step is vital in the de-tangling process. PROTECTIVE STYLING This method can be classified into two categories No Manipulated and Low Manipulated. No manipulated protective method is basically wearing your natural hair in styles that prevent manipulation, classic examples are 2 strand twist, comb twists and flat 2 strand twists these styles can lead to the promotion of hair growth. Low manipulated protective methods are styles that not only are protective but also put little tension on the hair follicle, such examples include basic cornrows with ones own natural hair or with extensions, crochet braid style, light knot-less braid, passion twists, Senegalese twists. Long and heavy box braids or faux locs are beautiful natural looks, but such styles can put serious tension on the hair follicle if constantly manipulated and left in over long periods of time, this can also lead to your hair locing. What I have learned in 13 years as a natural hair stylist is choosing the right extensions for your hair type is key. I suggest doing LOW MANIPULATED extensions during certain times of the year or when going on vacation. For e.g fall/winter is the best time to do protective styling. Protective extensions are beneficial during harsh weather conditions., also during the summer vacations while swimming in chlorinated water. Sis always remember to have regular hair treatments before and after you put them in or take your extensions down. Allow your natural hair to breathe for a while after taking out your extensions (preferably two weeks or more before putting them in again.) While your extensions are in CLEANSE/CO-WASH and MOISTURISE your scalp using a cleansing shampoo/conditioner and natural oils (preferably a cleanser with tea tree, witch hazel, rosemary or mint). RAKE & SHAKE This is a technique where your fingers or a rake brush is used to define small sections of your hair. The LOC or LCO method is applied to make your curls or kinks pop, diffuse or air dry then shake and go. SILK PRESS Hot combs are played out. A Silk Press is where its’ at girl! Here we use high quality flat irons and heat protectors which gives the hair the appearance of a relaxer – type look. Ask your stylist about this stlye' TWA This is what we call a teeny weeny AFRO. These can be styled in cute yet chic ways and can be SLAYED with a touch of colour. TWA's look fly on anyone, ask you stylist about this style. WnG (Wash and Go) Work is hectic, life is stressful but Sis your natural hair should be the least of your worries. Style it by first using a good moisturising shampoo and conditioner. Then applying a good moisture based product with just a lil gel fingers raking small sections or using a rake brush those CURLS and KINKS will be 'poppin'. Complete this No manipulated style with a diffuser or air – drying.