First Quarantine Haircut

I finally got my first quarantine haircut! I can’t remember the exact date of my last cut, but I believe it may have been in late February. I usually get haircuts every 3-4 months and typically one around my birthday (in March) so I can start my new year fresh. Due to the pandemic, salons have been closed in San Francisco for some time and I was not able to stay on my usual schedule. Salons started to open up a few weeks back and I was beginning to shop around and brainstorm where my first quarantine haircut would take place. My friend Nerrissa was supposed to host a small quarantine birthday celebration which included outdoor haircuts on her balcony, but the recent fires caused terrible air quality, and the event had to be rescheduled. We were finally able to meet this past weekend and it was such a treat!

Nerrissa and hairstylist Jenna coordinated so that a few of us could safely get quality cuts. It was a beautiful Sunday morning and the event was held from 10:00 AM - 2:00PM. Jenna specializes in dry haircuts so each of us arrived with our hair dry and straightened. It was my first time ever getting a cut like this and I was excited to try a new technique! My hair is naturally very wavy, so whenever I get a haircut, I have the stylist straighten it at the end to check that all the lines are clean and balanced. Doing so ensures that the overall shape is precise regardless of the way it’s styled. Although I usually straighten my hair after a new haircut, it was my first time doing so in the beginning, but the process makes sense because we wear our hair dry.

After 2.5 years with a short bob, this year I decided that I am ready for a new look. I love short hair, but since I don’t dye my hair anymore, changing the length is one of the only ways for me to sport a new look. Right now, I don’t have any stringent long-term hair goals, but decided to go for a medium length. My new look is described as a blunt lob (long bob) with curtain bangs and micro layers that add movement and a thicker feel. In addition to updating my shape and cutting off my dry ends, she was also able to fix my lop-sided bangs. The way my bangs grew out was one of my biggest insecurities and frustrations because they changed my preferred part and did not lay nicely. I’m so happy to have them fixed! I will likely keep this length and style for a while until I decide what’s next in the lineup! It feels chic, edgy, and gives me a retro 90’s vibe which I love. 

Current Skincare Routine for Sensitive Skin

I have always had pretty sensitive skin, but nearly two years ago I developed an autoimmune issue called Chronic Urticaria (Chronic Hives) which has made my skin even more sensitive to various foods and chemicals. I recently filmed a YouTube video sharing the details on what I have been going through with the recent changes in my body. If you are interested in learning more, please watch the first video in the new series, “Living with Chronic Urticaria: My First Flareup”.

Aside from being sensitive, I would also describe my skin’s texture as “normal” when it comes to how oily/dry it is. I don’t have breakouts super often, but when I do, the pimples stay around for a long time and sometimes cause scarring. For nearly two years, I was exclusively using First Aid Beauty products because they are safe for sensitive skin and haven’t given me any adverse reactions. I love that their products don’t have strong fragrances because I often strive to find products free from scents and dyes.

I first discovered First Aid Beauty when I purchased a few daily essentials as a gift for my boyfriend. I ended up trying the products out and continued using them while expanding my collection. I recently started venturing out a bit and reintroducing a few additional brands into my routine now that my skin has settled down a bit and I know how to avoid/manage my flareups and triggers.

Today, I am going to share my current skincare routine which includes products that have helped keep my skin clear and moisturized. I plan on testing a few new products and brands soon that are not currently on the list, so I will give you an update on whether or not they work well for me after I try them out for some time and update the list as needed! I have linked all of the products that I use and if any items are purchased through these links I will receive a small commission.

AM Routine

1. Face Wash First Aid Beauty Pure Skin Face Cleanser

   I use this gentle cleanser twice daily. In the mornings, I typically wash my face in the shower to get a clean slate for the day and wash away any products and dirt from the previous evening.

2. Ultra Repair Cream Intense Hydration

   I use this rich moisturizer daily and apply it all over my face, neck, and legs. It is very concentrated, but absorbs quickly and creates a nice base for my makeup while keeping my skin hydrated.

3. Sdara Skincare Vitamin C Serum + Hyaluronic Acid

   I was on the hunt for a new serum and recently added this powerful combination of Vitamin C + Hyaluronic Acid into my routine. My skin has become much more smooth and elastic since I began using this along with my daily moisturizer. It absorbs quickly and has made my makeup go on even smoother because it has improved the texture of my skin.

4. It’s Potent Eye Benefit Cream

   My under eyes are one of my biggest problem areas because I have dark circles and under eye bags that won’t go away. I use this eye cream under my eyes before applying concealer and it makes my problem area look more refreshed and dewy when applied under makeup.

PM Routine

1. Face Wash First Aid Beauty Pure Skin Face Cleanser

   I use the same gentle cleanser in my PM routine that I use in my AM routine. The only difference at night is that I add a fresh wash cloth for a deeper clean. In the mornings, I only use warm water and my hands along with the face wash.

2. Facial Radiance Pads

   I follow up with these textured face pads that act as an exfoliater and toner. They help brighten my skin, keep it even, and prevent breakouts by getting rid of any makeup left behind.

3. Tula Skincare Glow and Get It Cooling and Brightening Eye Balm

   I recently discovered Tula which is a clean and cruelty free skincare brand. I love that this product does not contain any alcohol or fragrances because I am often sensitive to those ingredients. This under eye stick also contains caffeine which gives me a little tingle under my eyes and makes me feel like the product is working its magic throughout the evening!

4. Ultra Repair Hydra-Firm Sleeping Cream

   I use this cream at night for anti-aging and extra moisture to fight fine lines and wrinkles as I sleep.

Weekly Masks

I switch off between these masks every other session. I do my best to mask 1-2x per week for a deep clean and extra moisture!

1. FAB Ginger and Turmeric Vitamin C Jelly Mask

2. FAB 5-in-1 Bouncy Mask

Do you have sensitive skin? What are your holy grail skincare products? Have you tried any of these brands before? I would love to know! Let me know in the comments below.

Loose Waves for Valentine’s Day with Not Your Mother’s

I recently took a survey on Instagram stories to learn what the “go-to” hairstyle is for date night and the most common response was “loose waves”. Valentine’s Day is around the corner, so I wanted to share how I achieve flirty waves with Not Your Mother’s (ad). While my hair is naturally wavy, when I style my hair with a curling wand it transforms my whole look which is fun for a night out, whether it be with friends or a hot date. Today I am sharing all of the tools, products, and techniques that I use to achieve this fun and flirty look.

Tools:

• 1-1.5 inch curling wand

• 1-2 sectioning clips 

• Blow Dryer (recommended) 

• Round Brush (recommended) 

• Large Tooth Comb (optional)

Products:

• All Eyes On Me 10-in-1 Hair Perfector

• Glisten Up High Gloss Top Coat

• She’s a Tease Volumizing Hairspray

Step 1: Spray the All Eyes On Me 10-in-1 Hair Perfector on Wet Hair

I recommend attempting this hairstyle after washing your hair. Once you get out of the shower and your hair is wet, section your hair into 3-4 parts and spray the 10-in-1 Hair Perfector throughout each section. Make sure to spritz some on the ends as well. The 10-in-1 Hair Perfector acts as a heat protectant and keeps your hair moisturized which is imperative when using heating tools. Spread the product through your hair with your fingers or a wide comb.  

Step 2: Blow-Dry with Round Brush

Before getting started with the curling wand, I do recommend blow-drying your hair with a round brush for a cleaner look. Here is a video tutorial I created where I share some tips and tricks on how to achieve a sleek blow-dry.

Step 3: Curling Wand

Overall, you will be separating your hair into 3 equal sections and 1 mini section. Take a visual note envisioning the 3 main sections you will be creating before applying the wand. Starting from the bottom of your head, create the first section from ear to ear. Separate the remaining hair on top of your head and hold it in place with the sectioning clips. Since my hair is short, I start from the top of my ears because it allows me to grab longer hair which is easier. If your hair is longer than mine, you may want to start a bit lower and create 1-2 additional sections so that they are not as thick and will take to the heat faster.

I typically start curling from the front and work my way towards the back in 1-inch sections. Wrap each 1-inch section vertically around the wand from root to tip. The strands that wrap around the wand should begin near the root where the base is thicker. The end of the strands should be on the smaller part of the wand.

Wrap each section of hair around the wand and away from your face. To ensure the hair is being curled away from your face, lay the wand above the strands and wrap your hair in the direction of the wall behind you. Hold the wand to your hair for about 15-20 seconds depending on how thick it is.

Repeat for sections 2 and 3. Section 4 should be very small and only consist of the pieces that surround your part. I like to save these strands for last because they frame my face and add extra volume.

Once you have completed each of the 4 sections, touch up any hair with the wand as needed. I recommend using a second mirror to make sure none of the back pieces are missed. 

Step 4: Lock in Shine and Moisture with the Glisten Up High Gloss Top Coat

Spray a few pumps of the Glisten Up High Gloss Top Coat into your palms. Warm up the product by rubbing your hands together. Add the product to the ends and the inner part of your hair while gently and subtly breaking up the curls with your fingertips. Add the remaining product on the ends of the pieces that frame your face with your fingertips. This top coat ensures that your hair is shiny and moisturized after heat styling. 

Step 5: Solidify the look with She’s a Tease Volumizing Hairspray

Solidify the look and tame flyaways with She’s a Tease Volumizing Hairspray. I like to use the hairspray all over to complete the look. I spray under, inside, and above my hair then gently comb the product through with my fingers. 

I hope you found this loose wave hair tutorial useful! Please let me know if you have any questions. Be sure to tag @vanessaevelynh and @notyourmothers on Instagram in any looks you recreate! We would love to see the results. 

My Natural Hair Journey + Current Hair Routine

When I was in middle school, my mom worked at the front desk of a prominent hair salon in the Peninsula which is when my obsession with changing hairstyles reached new heights. I began experimenting with new haircuts and dying my hair regularly between 7th and 8th grade. I must have been the most annoying pre-teen client because I got into a terrible habit of highlighting my hair, dyeing it black a few months later, and then highlighting it again. It was a vicious cycle that led to a lot of breakage, but it was my routine because I loved experimenting with my locks. I also utilized the periodic at-home box dye and even went burgundy a few times. Not to mention, I straightened my hair nearly every day because I didn’t know how to maintain my natural waves. 

I don’t remember the exact year I began my natural hair journey, but it was somewhere between 22 -24 years old (I’ll be 30 in March). I do remember announcing to my roommate that I was going to begin wearing my hair wavy and that I was also going to stop using all products in my hair to see how my waves reacted. She questioned my cold turkey tactics and asked why I wouldn’t just use curly hair products to enhance my natural texture. My thought process was to allow my hair to detox from all the years of “abuse” by ceasing all use of hair dye, heating tools, and hair products at once.

When I first started wearing my hair naturally, it was so FRIZZY. My hair was used to being dyed frequently and straightened every day for about a decade and it didn’t know how to act, especially because I wasn’t using any product whatsoever. My hair needed moisture and eventually I began using a product called Mixed Chicks that one of my good friends recommended. This product is super moisturizing with a soft hold and I used it for a long time. I only needed very little at a time because it was highly concentrated and actually a bit too heavy for my hair texture. Regardless, adding moisture to my hair helped tame the frizziness and combat dry ends as I let the hair dye grow out. After a few years of using Mixed Chicks, I began to experiment with different products. One that I used for a while was Deva Curl shampoo, conditioner, and some sort of leave-in product (I can’t remember exactly which). Sadly, I tried it out again a few months ago and it gave me a terrible allergic reaction which resulted in a rash all over my face that lasted over a month. I cannot use this brand anymore, but I did use it in the beginning of my natural hair journey. I later transitioned into Oribe Styling Cream and Texturizing Spray which is a great luxurious combination. Throughout all the years trying various hair products, another trusty brand I relied on was TreSemme for shampoo, conditioner, and various styling products. When I first started wearing my hair naturally, I used a blow dryer and a diffuser to dry my hair about half way. My hair was very long and would take forever to dry. At this time, I was still using heating tools but kept it to a minimum. However, for several years now I have allowed my hair to exclusively air dry unless I am straightening it or curling it with an iron/wand.

January 2019 is when I was introduced to Not Your Mother’s Haircare products and I have since exclusively used their products to keep my waves defined and bouncy.  I began with their Naturals shampoo and conditioner line, but a few months ago I switched over to the Curl Talk shampoo and conditioner. To style my hair, I have been using the Curl Talk Mousse and Cream for a year. I switched to the Curl Talk shampoo and conditioner in October of 2019 and this is also when I began incorporating the Curl Talk Gel into my routine. I already loved the Curl Talk line before this, but adding the gel really solidified the whole look.

Wearing my hair naturally is sentimental and practical for me. Around the time I began my natural hair journey, I was also going through a time of deep self reflection and was pursuing my journey with self love which I recently wrote about in a blog post. (Read My Journey with Self Love here.) During this time, I also wanted to simplify my life and my morning routine. I had a (not so far fetched) fantasy about waking up in the morning and taking as little time getting ready as needed. I wanted to embrace my natural state in its entirety and wake up feeling beautiful without a lot of extra fuss. Learning to embrace my natural texture is one of the pillars of my self love journey that will always serve as my home base.

My natural hair texture will likely always be my most worn hairstyle moving forward, but this year I want to experiment with heating tools more. As someone who used to change their hair often, I have been craving change. I have had the same haircut for nearly 2 years and wear it naturally all the time. To switch it up a bit, I have decided to grow my hair into a long bob (lob) and begin using heating tools more often this year. It will be a nice change and keep things interesting. Wearing my hair naturally for so many years as taught me to be grounded in my natural state and I will be solid in these roots regardless of how I style my hair.

Current Hair Routine:

1. I wash my hair about every other day with Curl Talk Shampoo and 3-in-1 Conditioner. What I love about the Curl Talk conditioner is that it has 3 options in 1 bottle. You are able to leave-in, rinse-out, or co-wash with this formula. Most days I rinse out the conditioner, but on days where I feel my strands need extra moisture I utilize the leave-in option.

2. After I wash my hair and get out of the shower, I leave the towel in my hair for 5-10 minutes to soak up extra moisture. I have a lot of hair so if I do not let the towel sit for a bit my hair will take longer to dry. I have to also be careful to not leave the towel in too long, because it makes my part look flat. At it’s current short length, it takes about 1-2 hours to air dry depending on the weather and temperature.

3. After I remove the towel, I mix the Curl Talk Cream and Gel into my fingers and spread the product throughout my hair, beginning at the ends- not the roots. I then take the remaining gel and cream to lightly touch up the the strands that are going to frame my face. As I do this, I brush the product through my hair with my fingers and begin forming the shape I want my hair to dry in and spread any remaining product lightly onto my roots for an extra umph. Once I am done creating the shape I like, I solidify the look with a little mousse beginning at the ends and then towards the strands that frame my face. Adding gel into my hair routine a few months ago was transformative. I really noticed a difference in the overall hold and volume which completes my signature look.