Everything Eboni

                                                              Discovering Everything Eboni

So I have had the Sessina Hair extensions and the QVR tracks for over a year, and it is time to buy new tracks lol

Not saying that I can't still re-use the hair if I provided some TLC to them, but that is not what this post is about. If you want washing and re-use techniques let me know!

So I will be the first to say that I can be impatient. When I order something I want it yesterday. 

I went to the QVR hair website but I couldn't find the hair I had previously bought (or the advertisements), So I had to go another route. 

Being a millennial what do I do? GOOGLE!

"4C sew in hair"

"4C track bundles"

"4C human hair tracks"

Can you believe the influx of BS advertisements?!?

The pictures online were from 4a/4b hair types, "Kinky Curly" they called it. But I am a black woman and I need KINKY COILY. God forbid I go out with two different hair textures like I did with my passport photo (lol)

When Google proved fruitless, I turned to social media. Specifically, Instagram. 

I came across a stylist page that used one specific brand but upon further research found out that the company had some bad reviews that were convincing enough for me to continue my search. 

I came across a picture of a woman who Had hair similar to mine when it was so picture and it turned out to be tracks to my surprise. 

This picture had the link attached to it so I clicked it. It said Everything Eboni, but it took me to a page that said wigs by Eboni, so I thought that I had gone to the wrong page, so I went back and clicked it again and it was the right page.

I felt like my search was over. So I proceeded to purchase the tracks, and I believe it was exactly as described kinky, coily. Her pack comes in 3's, but I'm pretty sure it was because there was a promotion sale going on. But I'm not a 100% sure.

She also has a by now pay later option with Sezzle, which is what I thought was really cool. 

May 16th,2024 Update:

I broke down and emailed them this morning regarding my order.  I already took out my hair because I got paint all over me from an event (I AM SELF CONSCIOUS, so I don't like going out with a hair scarf as a black woman) and I was hoping that I could get some type of update on my order (despite the order still being in the processing window)

I did notice that once I typed out my email there was no confirmation that it had been received.

-----

May 20th, 2024

She didn't respond until today. but she did say 24-72 hours (I have no idea why her turnaround time is so long). So since it was a priority it should have been delivered on Sunday, but it ended up being scheduled for Monday which is fine.... (I work from home on Mondays) but I had a feeling something was wrong so I checked the tracking 

I had a total hissy fit moment with her I am not going to lie, I took my hair out already, installed the weaving mesh, and braided down my edges. I had to cancel my hair appointment because the hair didn't arrive on Saturday.

------

May 26th,2024 Update

I absolutely LOVE the hair, it matches my hair when I come it out to a T! It didn't smell like a factory (I washed it anyway) the wefts were a little small but I was not disappointed when I was finished. I ordered 3 bundles ( once again I believe there was some kind of promotion going on)

Here is the Website if you are interested

Everything Eboni

Please dont judge me in the video lol I didnt mousse down my hair or did my edges in a couple days lol 

Drawing on how I installed the tracks

Embracing the Beauty: Challenges and Triumphs of 4C Hair with Curl Science

Hair is an integral part of our identity and a canvas for self-expression. Among the diverse range of hair textures, 4C hair holds a unique place. 4C hair is characterized by tight coils and delicate strands, forming a dense and voluminous texture. While it possesses incredible beauty and versatility, it is not without its challenges. In this article, we will explore the triumphs and hurdles faced by those with 4C hair and highlight the significance of embracing and celebrating this natural hair type.

The Unique Beauty of 4C Hair:

4C hair is a testament to the remarkable diversity of human hair. It exhibits a stunning array of tightly coiled strands that beautifully frame the face and create a voluminous appearance. The density of 4C hair allows for breathtaking styles, such as afros, twist-outs, bantu knots, and updos that showcase its natural versatility. Additionally, the rich texture of 4C hair can absorb and reflect light in a way that creates a dazzling, lustrous effect.

Detangling and Shrinkage:

One of the primary challenges faced by individuals with 4C hair is detangling. Due to the tightly coiled nature of the strands, detangling can be time-consuming and require patience. Proper techniques and tools are essential to prevent unnecessary breakage and damage. Furthermore, 4C hair has a high propensity for shrinkage, meaning that its true length is often disguised. This can sometimes lead to frustration and a perception that the hair is not growing when, in fact, it is.

Moisture Retention:

4C hair has a natural tendency to be dry due to the structure of its coils. Retaining moisture becomes a crucial aspect of caring for this hair type. Moisturizing products, such as leave-in conditioners, oils, and butters, are essential to maintain the health and hydration of 4C hair. Consistent and diligent moisture retention practices are key to preventing breakage and promoting overall hair health.

Styling Versatility:

While 4C hair can present challenges, it is important to recognize the immense versatility it offers. With a little creativity and patience, individuals with 4C hair can explore an array of stunning hairstyles. From intricate braids to elegant updos, 4C hair can be styled in a multitude of ways. Embracing the uniqueness of 4C hair and experimenting with different styles is a journey of self-discovery and empowerment.

Social and Cultural Perceptions:

In many societies, beauty standards have traditionally favored hair types that align with European ideals, leaving individuals with 4C hair feeling marginalized or unaccepted. This has led to a societal perception that natural 4C hair is "difficult" or "unprofessional," perpetuating stereotypes and biases. However, in recent years, there has been a positive shift in embracing natural hair, challenging these perceptions and celebrating the beauty of all hair types, including 4C hair.

Embracing and Celebrating 4C Hair:

The journey to embracing and celebrating 4C hair starts with self-acceptance and self-love. Recognizing the beauty and uniqueness of one's hair type can be transformative. Building a support network of individuals with similar hair types, seeking guidance from knowledgeable stylists, and utilizing online communities and resources are all valuable tools in navigating the challenges and celebrating the triumphs of 4C hair.

Having 4C hair comes with its unique set of challenges, from detangling and moisture retention to societal perceptions. However, it is essential to shift the narrative and celebrate the beauty and versatility of this hair type. Through self-acceptance, proper care, and embracing a supportive community, individuals with 4C hair can rewrite the narrative, empowering themselves and inspiring others to appreciate and cherish the remarkable diversity of natural hair.

This brings me to the whole point of this blog post! Curl Care by AFRICAN AMERICAN DOCTORS!

Black doctors are already few and far between where I am (yes I know they are growing in number in recent years) But I have never met one let alone two who specialize in healthy hair for African Americans. 

Want to know more about your 4c hair and why it ISNT growing? then I would suggest you go to the Facebook page below and ask the sister doctors for help!

Curl Science FB group

Sassina Hair Extensions!

 So, typically, I don't. However, allow me to gush for a moment about Sassina human hair extensions! I used wigs for a very long time to cover my real hair. Since I was unable to scratch my head, I began grinding my teeth in order to release the pressure on my scalp. I also lost some of my edges from lack of upkeep. I needed an alternative when I realized I could no longer bear to wear wigs. I wanted a solution that mimicked the look of my real hair, could be adjusted to my liking, and could be removed at the end of the day.

I needed a cheaper alternative. Fast. I had just landed a new job, and I wasn’t comfortable enough with the length of my natural hair to wear it in the workplace. 

So, where do you go when you need a quick alternative and your local hair stores carry the same things you are trying to get away from? Google, which led me to Amazon. But that is beside the point.

Anyway, I was searching on  Google for human hair extensions, and it brought me to a picture of a girl with clip-ins so I clicked on the link in the link that actually brought me to Amazon, and it had these clip in extensions of various sizes and colors from Sassina.  I was a little cautious because I had previously bought clip-in extensions from another company; it turned out to be a Chinese shipping company, but that's fine; that's not the reason why I'm writing this, and the hair clips rusted, the hair did not maintain its curl pattern, and I had to cut a lot of it because they became mad and not beyond my ability to repair. but the ones I found on Amazon were half the price. The ones that I ended up buying did end up being about $80 a pack, and I needed two packs to get the fullness that I like.

 

The packages actually came faster than I anticipated, and I was able to wear them for my first day on the job. So I took them out of the packaging, and immediately they were soft and shiny, and the coils already looked like they naturally matched my pattern. I did go out into the sunlight and saw that they were a little lighter than my natural hair was, so I decided to dye them to match. After being washed, dried, shampooed, dyed, and otherwise prepared for installation, they were still soft, still maintained the curl pattern, and there was very minimal shedding.

In my excitement, I forgot that my own hair wasn't done, so I took the time to wash, trim, braid down, and have a little bit of leave out for this style. and once I was prepared and the hair was fully dried, I went ahead and installed the clips. It didn't take very long for me to install them since they were full-bodied and covered the braids completely. I didn't have to do much with the leave out hair besides moisturize it to match the extensions. So now when I don't feel like wearing wigs or getting braided styles, which have been more common lately, I just put these in during the day and take them out at night.

 I did an experiment where I slept with them for a little while, which was fine, but the constant pressure of the clips made me grit my teeth, so I didn't do that for a long time. but that is my personal experience. I am sure other people are able to sleep with clips in their hair.

 After a while, I was having issues keeping the clips in because some people like to pull hair (I will not go into detail about that), so I did end up finding an alternative to the clip-ins (but don't tell Sassina LOL). After I got comfortable with the style, my mom suggested (and had been suggesting it for a long time) that I try crochet in my hair to look natural and have low maintenance. The human hair that she had was not cheap human hair. It was expensive. But I liked that when I wet the clip-in hair, it got soft, just like my natural hair would. So what I decided to do is order another set of clip-in hair extensions because I had an unsuccessful search for human hair crochet that maintained that softness. but this time, instead of clipping them in, I actually cut and sealed the wefts.  and using the method my mom taught me, I crocheted the same amount of weft hair as extensions. 

 Ultimately, I ended up liking this method better than all of the others. I did have a little more shedding, but it's because I cut wefts of hair, not for any other reason like a problem with the product. I had also seen this method on YouTube, so I know it's not something that's new. I am able to wear the style in a ponytail because I tucked the wefts underneath the braid to prevent them from sticking up. I have only had the style in for about a week and a half, but it has maintained itself, and I get compliments on my hair all the time.

 I'm super excited because I received a free pack of clipping hair extensions in exchange for a video and review of the product. So I will probably be using the hair extensions from now on until I want to go back to wearing my wigs or do something else entirely with my hair. but I am so in love with my natural looking hair with the extensions that I may not go back!