Combing natural hair frequently can actually cause breakage, one-strand knots, and other problems. If you're natural, try finding a style that doesn't call for daily combing or invest in a seamless comb. Your hair will thank you for it! And if you do comb, remember to comb from ends to roots (and in sections for longer hair).

My Jilbere comb's tips rubbed off and have been causing breakage to my hair so I picked up a new comb by a brand called HairArt. It's handmade, static-free, heat & chemical resistant, and most importantly... it's SEAMLESS. The Jilbere comb, although many people believe it's seamless (even I did), is not seamless.

The comb sells at about $6-$8 at beauty supply stores. Anyway, I also plan to buy a rattail comb from the brand when I take down this installation in February.

Temporary hair straightening using a flat iron is achieved by applying heated tongs to the length of the hair. This heat breaks and then reforms the hydrogen bonds in the inner core of the hair fiber. Dr. Mirmirani noted that while the goal of straightening is to alter the inner substance of the hair, the unwanted consequence may be damage to the outer protective cuticle, causing weathering, damage and eventual hair breakage.

Hair weathering or damage is usually characterized by dry ends or flyaway hair. However, if breakage occurs, it can happen anywhere along the length of the hair and cause a shaggy or skimpy appearance to the hair. When this occurs, flat iron users may use the device even more frequently to try to tame the broken or uneven appearance of their hair — which can lead to more damage.

Today, many ceramic flat irons on the market have variable heat settings with maximum temperatures of up to 410 degrees Fahrenheit (210 degrees Celsius). Prior studies have shown that temperatures of 347 to 419 degrees Fahrenheit (175 to 215 degrees Celsius) for as little as five minutes are enough to damage most hair. However, Dr. Mirmirani warns this threshold may be even lower if the heat is applied to damp hair or hair that has been chemically treated with color or permanents, as she is seeing patients who fit this scenario more frequently. If women are not willing to give up their flat irons in the quest for straight hair, Dr. Mirmirani advised them to take precautions.

"Proper use of flat irons is extremely important, especially given how quickly hair can be damaged with high heat settings," said Dr. Mirmirani. "Flat irons should only be applied to dry hair, and specialized styling products that act as heat protectors may be applied to the hair prior to pressing to help prevent burning and allow for smoother hair that remains straight longer. If there is a temperature setting on the device, it should be set no higher than 347 degrees Fahrenheit, or 175 degrees Celsius, or on the low/medium setting." Read More >>

Allantion is known for its healing, anti-irritating, and soothing properties. It helps to heal an irritated and stimulate growth of healthy tissue.

Merry Christmas to all! We hope that all of you are having a safe and fun Christmas today. I finally got a sew-in (Beauty Elements Super Wave) and will be going to watch The Curious Case of Benjamin Button today so before I leave, here's the discussion:

• What did you get today?
• Did you have a dinner or party?
• How'd you wear your hair?

We'd love to hear your responses! Don't be shy...

Product Name: Mizani Thermasmooth System
Price Range: $25.95-$35.95 (each)
Company: Mizani USA (http://mizani-usa.com)
Catch Phrase: ThermaSmooth is Mizani’s salon-exclusive, synergistic thermal smoothing system designed to repair, protect and smooth the hair from the very first step. With Mizani’s exclusive C3 Smoothing Complex of Coconut Oil, Ceramides and Cationic Polymers, Thermasmooth provides weightless protection for long-lasting, frizz-free, smooth style - ideal for use on natural, excessively curly hair to hair that is relaxed and or color treated.

What I Say: I nearly cried when they rang up the items. I bought the whole line and it costed me over $100! I was praying that it worked since my new growth was getting to the point where I couldn't see my scalp. Remember how I said shampoos hardly ever work for me? The Mizani Thermasmooth Shampoo did! My hair was sooo incredibly soft after shampooing and didn't feel stripped at all when I shampooed again. The conditioner and serum were perfect. I used a little bit more of the serum since I omitted the last step (which is the Shine Extend Anti-Humidity Spritz). My scalp can now see the sunlight! I RECOMMEND THIS TO EVERYONE, ESPECIALLY MY 4a/4b GIRLS!

Product Tip: For better results, use the technique highlighted in Celebrity Hair: Get Michelle Obama's Look.
Rating: ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ (5/5)