At the time I had no idea how to maintain braids, nor did I know how long I should leave them in my hair. That was my first mistake, and the results were devastating. In fact, I’ll never forget the day when I took out the braids and was shocked to see that my hair was starting to loc – at least, I thought it was. It was the first time I had ever had micro braids, and I learned some painful lessons about braid care and maintenance that day.

I have to admit it; I did everything wrong. I pulled them into tight ponytails; I hardly took time to shampoo them; and I never conditioned them. Needless to say, when it was time to take out my braids, I was in for a “treat.”

Here’s what happened next. While I was taking out my braids, I noticed a knotted ball where the extension was attached to my hair. I was taken aback. (I later learned this was dirt, lint, gel, and any other product I had been using on my hair.)

That, unfortunately, was just the beginning of my nightmare. I then carefully combed through my hair to ensure that I didn’t rip any of it. Unfortunately, it was too late to undo the damage I had already caused. I lost some of my hair and my scalp was sore.

Here is where I nearly started to cry. Once I got to the roots, my hair was literally falling out. I was shocked at what I saw in the mirror…. I had a bald spot! I was suffering from traction alopecia, and it was my fault.

Traction alopecia is common among people who wear tightly attached hair weaves, braids, dreadlocks, and cornrows because the tension results in a constant pull of the hair, which, in turn, may lead to gradual (temporary or permanent), hair loss. The good news, however, is that with proper hair care, this condition is 100% preventable.

My experience was – needless to say – a life-altering moment which led me to learn to style hair as well as dedicate my life to teaching others how to properly maintain their hair. Because I’ve learned from my experiences, I now pass on my knowledge to others so they can avoid the same mistakes. Now when I wear braids and take them out, I still have hair…and it’s healthy.

Getting your hair braided can definitely be exciting; however, most people who get their hair braided mistakenly think that wearing braids means that they don’t have to take care of their hair, which can lead to devastating results. Unfortunately, many of us neglect the care and maintenance of our hair while it’s braided, cornrowed, or twisted.

I’m here to help.

So that you can avoid – or repair – the results of improperly managed braids, I’m offering my trade tips to maintaining healthy hair and a healthy scalp before, during, and after you get braids.
Before:

1. First things first: Once you find a salon, ask your stylist if he or she offers shampooing and conditioning prior to braiding your hair. This may sound a little crazy, but a lot of braiding salons don’t offer this service, even though it’s an integral factor to keeping your hair healthy. If they don’t offer the service and you still decide to get your hair braided at that salon, be sure to shampoo and deep condition your hair prior to getting it braided.

During:

1. Be sure to shampoo with regular shampoo, and condition your hair every two to three weeks. You can use a traditional conditioner; however, be sure to completely rinse it out of the hair to avoid unwanted buildup. Also, consider leave-in conditioners. They’re easy to use and provide great results. Don’t neglect your hair in between shampoos; be sure to use a dry shampoo to keep your scalp clean. Also, consider leave-in conditioners. They’re easy to use and provide great results.

2. It’s also very important to keep the scalp moisturized. For best results, use light oil like Argan or Moroccan oils for hair. Avoid using grease because it clogs the pores.
3. Avoid pulling the hair into tight pony tails. This can cause the traction alopecia I’ve experienced. Traction alopecia usually occurs around the temples and edges, so be sure to wear your hair loosely.

After:

1. Once you remove your braids, carefully comb your hair, dividing it in sections, starting from the ends and slowly working your way to the roots. Your hair will shed during this process. Don’t worry. It’s completely normal.

2. Use a gentle clarifying shampoo to rid your hair of the dirt and oils. Then use a moisturizing shampoo and give yourself a deep conditioning treatment.

3. Style as usual.

It’s very important to note that if you plan to relax your hair, you will need to wait at least two weeks before doing so to avoid chemical burns to your scalp.

Getting braids can be very exciting – that is, if you know the proper steps to take before, during, and after getting them. Be sure to follow these tips, and you’ll be sure to have beautiful, healthy hair and avoid some of the unsightly results that I’ve experienced in the past.

Be blessed!
Marquetta Breslin

P.S. There are still a few spots left for my upcoming Lace Wig Seminar, if you haven’t applied yet, make sure to here: Apply For Lace Wig Seminar!

Here’s the first video! I hope you enjoy!

Click here to view the embedded video.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Important reminder, next Thursday I will be having a Scratch & Dent Sale. Keep checking your e-mail for more details and information.

Thursday at 10am EST you will be sent the link to the sale so you can take advantage. I don’t do this often, but when I do it never lasts long at all because everything sells out fast.

I hope you enjoy the tutorial! Post your comments below and I’ll talk with you soon.

Be Blessed,
Marquetta Breslin

P.S. I have only have 2 spots left for my LAST Lace Wig Mastery Training Seminar of the year, so be sure to get it where you fit in if you’re interested in attending.

–> Sign Up For The Last Lace Wig Training Seminar of The Year!

I’m going all out for this last seminar of the year and adding a 3rd day to the seminar and a free dinner on that Monday night. The seminar is next month, September 10-12th and this seminar will blow you away!

Last Friday I received my June/July issue of Sophisticates Black Hair Magazine. I always get excited when I get any type of hair magazine in the mail.

This time since I was still in the car I passed the magazine off to my daughter Nya to hold for me until I pulled into the driveway.

Just as I was putting the car in park both kids started screaming!

“Oh my goodness, what’s wrong,” I asked with a terrified look on my face.

“Mom, I think this is YOU IN THE MAGAZINE,” Cale screamed.

I took a deep breath, and busted out in the biggest laugh! After I told the kids I thought they had seen a snake or something we all laughed!

They were right! My Learn How To Do: Micro Braids DVD is featured in the back of the June/July issue of Sophisticates Black Hair Magazine.

–> Click Here To See The Article

The article also features a beautiful twisted style done by Tashima’s Hair Affair Salon in Richmond, VA.

In honor of the feature, and because Micro Braids is my style of choice for the next few weeks, I’m hooking you up with a great deal.

For the entire month of May you can get my Learn How To Do: Micro Braids DVD & my Learn How To Do: Kinky Twists DVD for only $20!

–> Click Here To Buy Micro Braids & Kinky Twists – Only $20!

It’s summer time and we all know that means swimming, vacations, etc. And low maintenance hair is key which is why Micro Braids or Kinky Twists are perfect, so be sure to take advantage. I’m sure you’ll enjoy them!

–> Click Here To Buy Micro Braids & Kinky Twists – Only $20!

Be blessed!
Marquetta Breslin

P.S. Want to come to my Lace Wig Seminar? Send in your application. The spots are filling up fast! I’d love to see you there!

The one thing we forget in the winter time is our hair, so it’s very important to take care of our hair with great products in this type of weather.

So, what should you use?

If your hair is feeling dry or brittle, I would suggest using the Joico K-PAK line ASAP.

I love their entire line and have been getting GREAT results lately.

Also, if you have color treated hair, be sure to use the K-PAK Deep Penetrating Reconstructor. I’ve been seeing excellent results with it. Trust me you WILL feel the difference in your hair!

I also like to use Joico’s Silk Result line as my regular shampoo & conditioner.

Make sure to Shampoo your hair weekly and use a Deep Conditioning treatment at least once per week.

I think that’s a great thing, and I applaud all who choose to do so. But one thing that bothers me is when I hear women say‚ “It’s just a Fad!”

Really? Is going natural just a fad? If I get on the subject of hair and I ask someone why they decided to go natural there’s usually real meaning behind why they wanted to go natural.

What’s your opinion on going natural? Would or are you natural because that’s what’s in right now? I’d love to hear what you have to say!

The big thing I was so excited about was being able to wear 20 inch sew-in weaves.

Yes, I love wearing long hair, but with long hair comes care and maintenance, especially if you like to wear Remy hair like me.

I absolutely love it, but the one thing I’ve had to learn was how to properly care for it.

If you also love wearing Remy hair, here are 3 things that I believe you can’t live without.

1. Shampoo – The one thing you have to remember with Remy hair is that you must shampoo the hair weekly just like you would your own. A lot of people shy away from this because they fear the hair will tangle and matt. If this happens it’s either not Remy hair or you’re using the wrong products. I have 2 products that I love to use to shampoo my Vellusia Remy Hair. These products are amazing!

- Biolage Hydrating Shampoo
- Joico Silk Result Smoothing Shampoo

2. Conditioner – The most important thing after the shampoo is moisturizing and detangling, and this is done by using conditioners! So many people skip this step and in my opinion, it’s the most important. There have been times that my conditioners have truly saved my weave! As funny as that sounds it’s the truth. The right conditioners on Remy hair make a world of difference. Ok, so let me get to the good stuff. Here’s what I
like to use:

- Bioliage Hydratherapie Conditioning
- Joico Silk Result Smoothing Conditioner

** TIP – After you shampoo, sit underneath a hooded drier or let your hair air dry naturally. Do not sleep on wet hair. **

3. Moisturizer – Finding a good moisturizerfor true Remy hair is challenging because you have to try to avoid it looking too oily
or too dry. So, in my search to find something that will work I stumbled upon something that I’ll be using for a lifetime! What is it? Moroccan oil! Moroccan oil is amazing and can be used on natural or relaxed hair as well. There are several different brands, but there’s only 1 real Moroccan oil (The brand is “Moroccan oil”) and it can only be purchased at salon’s, but trust me it’s well worth the investment!

Always remember that using a good quality Shampoo, Conditioner, and Moisturizer will change the look and feel of your Remy Hair.

Don’t waste your money on bad products that don’t work, trust me, I’ve done it.

Follow these simple tips to maximize your dollars!

And lastly, I always get asked what kind of Remy Hair I wear, and the answer is Vellusia

Even if you don’t wear my brand, make sure to always look for Remy Hair that is 100% authentic and comes directly from India. And remember, most Indian hair is processed which isn’t “real” Remy.

Just make sure you ask about those things before you purchase from anybody.

I hope you enjoyed.

Be blessed!

It was quite interesting and fun!

I don’t know about you, but no matter where I go I always seem to somehow tie hair or hairstyles in the mix!

Well, last night was no different, but this time I didn’t have to throw it in the mix because everybody was talking about it… I kept hearing, “What am I going to do with your hair for school?” or “I have to get you to the salon to get your hair done.”

Trust me, the hair talk was all over the place.

The one lady that stuck out was the lady that said to another parent, “Why are you taking her to a salon, I save a lot of money by doing
my daughter’s hair at home. Now don’t get me wrong, I still take her to the salon for the major things like trims, and things like that. But most everything I can do at home.”

As I glanced at the other lady it was like she had one of Oprah’s Ah Ha Moments.

“You know what, that’s not such a bad idea, I think I will do that. Thank you,” she replied.

Moments later it was time for me to head over to Nya’s class to meet her teacher.

There are so many cute styles for kids like Micro Braids, Cornrows, Kinky Twists, Design Cornrows, and so much more!

I’m putting together a special package just for those of you who want to save time and money just like the two mothers I mentioned
above.

The big day is next Tuesday, August 17th at 11am EST. Be ready!

Have a great weekend!
Marquetta

I never understood what that meant when my Dad would tell me that, but now I get it.

It seems like over the last past couple of weeks all I’ve been hearing is I can’t cornrow. After my friend’s success I felt the need to share this story with you.

The other day I was talking to a friend who kept saying ”Marquetta, I CAN’T do this! I CAN’T cornrow no hair!”

“Yes you can! Can’t Never Could!” I said.

“Ok, I’ll give it another try and we’ll see what happens” he responded.

At that moment I decided to send him home with my Learn How To Do: Cornrows DVD for him to practice without me breathing down his neck. A few days after watching the DVD and practicing on his own my friend came  to me and said, “Marquetta I need to show you my cornrows so you can tell me what I’m doing wrong.”

After he sat down and started to do his first cornrow I was amazed!!! That cornrow was straight, no lumps and by looking at it you would have thought he’d been cornrowing for years!

I was so proud of him! There was honestly nothing to critique.

So many times we tell ourselves, I can’t do this, I can’t do that, and we talk ourselves out of doing something we’ve never given ourselves a chance to do.

I’ve been guilty of it myself. Do you know how hard it was for me to cornrow hair before I started? I wouldn’t even take a cornrow client, I’d just say I can’t cornrow and refer them to someone else.

After using my cousin as my mannequin to practice each time I got better and better, and let me tell you I never said I couldn’t do something after I saw that with a little bit of patience, persistence, and practice did for me.

Don’t limit yourself or your services in your salon because you can’t cornrow. Take the bull by the horns and show yourself that you can!

If you’re ready to prove that you CAN do it, check out my Learn How To Do: Cornrows DVD. I guarantee you’ll learn how to cornrow hair if you follow the steps and tips I show you in that DVD.

I’ve got some brand new bonuses in there too, so be sure to check it out!

And remember, can’t never could, but YOU CAN!

Be blessed!

Unhappy about my decision at the time, she tried her best to talk me out of it. Before I go any further, let me just say going natural is great, but it’s simply not for everybody.

Ok, back to the story… so this particular day we got on the subject of how I was wearing my hair.

Right now I’m wearing a full head sew in weave with none of my hair left out.

“Oh so you’re finally off the Creamy Crack! It’s about time you snapped out of it!! Girl what’s your problem you know you need to be natural!” she said.

I politely said, “Look, for all of the years you’ve been natural, that’s great! I’m so happy for you and excited that you made the choice to go that route. That works for YOU not ME. I like to wear my hair relaxed, going natural is not for me. What I do with MY hair is up to me, so let’s leave this subject as it is!”

So what’s the moral of the story? Don’t let any try to talk you into doing what’s best for you! Make your own decisions based on what YOU want to do. I just talked to a girl the other day who’s family was upset because she decided to go to Cosmetology School instead of working in the family business.

She was upset, but at the same time proud of herself because she made her own decision to do what made her happy instead of what made her family happy. If braiding hair, weaving hair, or just doing hair period is something you’ve always wanted to do, like Nike says…”JUST DO IT!”

If you’re ready I’ve got an awesome opportunity for you to get started! I’m doing something really special for back to school!! Next week I’ll be sending out a video
with all of the details.

Be blessed!
Marquetta

P.S. Have a Facebook account? Send me a friend request so we can chat!

http://www.facebook.com/marquettabreslin