Porosity can be genetic, but external factors may also play a role. Chemical processing, heat
treatments and environmental exposure may also affect your hair’s porosity.
Why does it matter? Your hair’s porosity affects how well oils and other moisture products pass in
and out of the hair cuticle. Knowing your hair’s porosity can help you determine the best products
and treatments suited to your individual needs, to keep your hair well‐moisturised, strong and
healthy.

Porosity is broken down into three categories: low, normal and high.
Low porosity: Cuticles are very closely bound.
Normal / Medium porosity: Cuticles are slightly less bound.
High porosity: Cuticles are more widely spread out.
How can you determine your hair’s porosity?
The most common way is by doing a float test. Take a few strands of hair from your hairbrush and
drop them into a bowl of water. Wait for 2 – 4 minutes. If the hairs float, you have low porosity. If
they sink, you have high porosity.
How to care for your hair according to its porosity
Low porosity

Because the cuticles are tightly bound together, it is harder for moisture to penetrate the hair shaft.
Hair products may sit on the hair, causing build‐up, because they aren’t absorbed easily, it may be
difficult for water to saturate your hair when shampooing and it may take longer for your hair to air
dry.

But just because your hair has low porosity, it doesn’t mean it’s not healthy, it just means that it may
become very dry if it is not moisturised correctly.
Look for ingredients like honey, shea butter, jojoba oil and coconut oil in your hair care products.
These moisturisers are rich in emollients and will penetrate the hair more easily. Try Cantu Shea
Butter Leave‐In Conditioning Repair Cream (R149.95), a deeply nourishing treatment formulated
with 100% pure shea butter and other natural oils to leave dry, damaged and coarse hair softer,
more manageable and more resilient.
Apply conditioner to wet hair, as it may be absorbed more easily if it’s a little diluted. We
recommend The Perfect Hair Mango & Marula Deep Conditioner (R89.99). Enriched with mango
butter, castor oil, and marula oil to give your hair an intense moisture boost. Leaves your hair
wonderfully soft.
Use a steamer or heat cap to apply heat when you condition your hair as this will help the product
penetrate the hair shaft more easily.
Medium / normal porosity
When your hair has medium porosity, the cuticles aren’t too open, but not too tightly bound either.
This means moisture can penetrate easily, and can also be retained for a longer time. If your hair has
medium porosity, it should tak

colour well, be easily styled and hold a style, is shiny and doesn’t
take too long to air dry.
Medium porosity hair requires the least amount of maintenance. Occasional deep conditioning
treatments will maintain the hair’s health and increase product absorption. Cantu’s Shea Butter
Natural Hair Intensive Repair Masque (R59.99) penetrates deep into the hair shaft for an intense
treatment to repair, restore and strengthen dry, damaged hair.
High porosity
Hair with high porosity can absorb moisture, but cannot retain it due to the gaps or spaces in the
cuticles. High porosity hair tends to break easily, can be excessively dry and will struggle to hold
colour.

Use hair products that contain ingredients like butters and oils, as these will help moisturise high
porosity hair. Try Cantu Shea Butter Coconut Curling Cream (R199.99), which helps to define,
moisturise and strengthen every lock, or The Perfect Hair Sunflower Leave-In Treatment (R69.99),
which contains sunflower, coconut and castor oils that penetrate the hair to soften, strengthen and
repair. Another great option to seal the hair is Jamaican Mango & Lime JBCO Original Hair Oil
(R155.00). Made with grounded Jamaican castor bean and boiled to perfection, it softens and
moisturises hair and skin, leaving it nourished and treated.
Avoid hot water when shampooing and conditioning, use lukewarm water instead. It’s also
important to apply a heat protectant product before heat styling or blow‐drying your hair.
Invest in leave‐in conditioners and sealers as these will assist your hair in retaining moisture. Crème
of Nature Strength & Shine Leave‐in Conditioner (R149.99) is a unique two‐phase formula that
combines Argan Oil liquid shine and a strengthening protein complex that improves hair strength,
protects against damage, and adds moisture and shine

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Instead of compiling a list of resolutions, we’re embracing a healthier holistic lifestyle that is easy to maintain all year round.

A few simple additions to your daily skincare and body care regime is all it takes to keep your skin healthy and happy.

Here is our list of 10 commandments to turn into healthy habits this year.

Never go to bed with makeup on

It’s so tempting to go straight to bed after a long day or a party, but did you know that sleeping with your makeup on can lead to breakouts, dehydration and a lacklustre complexion? Try our hack: wash your face as soon as you get home from work / your evening out. If it becomes the first thing you do when you get home, you’ll never be too tired to do it before bed. ZERO Face Wash (R295.00) is a gentle, all‐natural cleanser that effectively removes makeup, dirt and impurities without stripping your skin of its natural moisture.

Moisturise twice a day

A good quality moisturiser is one of the most important skincare products you will ever use. During the day it helps protect against environmental aggressors and moisture loss, and at night, it works to replenish the skin’s moisture levels. Don’t skip either application – moisturised skin looks younger, plumper and glowy. We recommend ZERO Day Cream (R395.00) and Night Cream (R395.00) for optimum, plant‐based hydration without the addition of any harsh ingredients. Follow with ZERO Eye Cream (R295.00) to ensure the delicate skin around your eyes gets an added boost of hydration.

Exfoliate weekly

Exfoliation is an important part one’s skincare regime, because it helps remove dead and dry skin cells that may otherwise contribute to clogged pores, blackheads and dullness. A weekly or bi‐ weekly exfoliation will leave your skin clearer and brighter, but be wary not to exfoliate more than twice a week, or you may risk causing irritation. Use a gentle scrub like ZERO’s Face Scrub (R295.00) and be careful not to rub it into the skin vigorously: gentle circular motions will do the trick.

Wear SPF every day – even when it’s cloudy

It’s a myth that SPF is only required on sunny days. Research has shown that the sun’s UV rays can harm the skin in overcast, rainy and windy weather too. That’s why it’s essential to wear a broad spectrum SPF every day, regardless of the weather. Piz Buin’s Allergy Lotion SPF50 for Face (R189.99) is a great choice for everyday wear as it is light and absorbent, and can be worn alone or under makeup. If you’re looking for an easy‐to‐use body SPF that gives the skin a warm glow too, try Australian Gold Spray Gel with Bronzer SPF30 (R269.99).

Apply after sun even if you don’t have sunburn

After sun works wonders when soothing a sunburn, but did you know it’s also a great product to apply after you’ve spent time outdoors? After sun soothes and hydrates the skin, and even if your skin isn’t burnt, it will benefit from these properties if it’s been exposed to the sun, the wind or the sea. We love Piz Buin After Sun Soothing Lotion (R129.99) and Australian Gold Aloe Freeze Gel Spray (R175.99).

Stop sun tanning

The biggest promise we all need to make to ourselves this year is to stop sun tanning. Yes, a golden glow might look healthy, but the truth is that there is no such thing as a healthy tan. Self‐tan and body bronzing products are not what they used to be: formulations have become so advanced that these days it’s virtually impossible to tell a self‐tan from a real tan. As such, we recommend regularly applying a bronzing lotion that gives the skin a natural glow, instead. Try St Moriz Golden Glow Moisturizer (R149.95) for a natural‐looking glow that develops gradually, or Australian Gold’s Sunscreen Lotion with Instant Bronzer SPF30 (R279.99) for an instant golden glow.

Say goodbye to UV sunbeds

According to the World Health Organisation, sunbeds are as dangerous as smoking. They send out harmful UV rays that damage the DNA in your cells, and this can lead to skin cancer. In short, it’s never safe to use one. Luckily, there are other ways of attaining a deep tan at home. Invest in a good quality self‐tan product like St Moriz Tan Mousse in Medium or Dark (R149.95). This easy‐to‐use mousse formula helps you achieve a deep, bronze tan without even leaving the house.

Learn how to perfect and protect a self‐tan

Modern self‐tan formulations have come a long way, meaning the orange, streaky looks from the past are literally that – a thing of the past! There are only a few basics to master when applying your self‐tan: always exfoliate beforehand (particularly the rougher areas like elbows and knees), follow the instructions on the bottle precisely (now is not the time to wing it!), wear loose dark clothing afterwards and avoid exercise and showering for around 6 – 8 hours after application. And – very importantly – once your tan starts to fade and you want to reapply, always be sure to remove the lingering colour from your skin, or else you might end up with uneven colour. St Moriz Tan Remover (R299.95) gets the job done quickly, without the need for scrubbing.

Moisturise your hands regularly

Regular hand‐sanitizing is likely to be here for a long time to come, and for most of us, the high alcohol content in sanitizers has a severe effect on our hands and cuticles. To counteract the alcohol‐ induced dehydration, we recommend applying a nourishing hand cream as often as you are able, and particularly after you’ve washed your hands and before you go to bed. Try ZERO’s Hand and Nail Cream (R295.00). Enriched with Sweet Almond Oil, Coconut Oil, Sacha Inchi Seed Oil and Shea Butter, it helps restore dry hands and maintain soft skin.

Nourish your skin from the inside

Healthy skin is not just about applying topical products – to ensure your skin looks its very best, you also need to pay attention to what you put into your body. That means following a diet filled with fresh fruit and veg, lean protein, healthy fats and lots of antioxidants. And don’t forget about water – eight glasses a day go a long way to ensure your skin stays hydrated

The post Skin and body care commandments appeared first on Sunpac.

Wash day comes with its rituals and routines, and by the end of it your hair is sure to look its best. But what about the in‐between days? Curly hair tends to be the driest of all hair textures, because the shape of a curl strand makes it difficult for the natural oils produced by the scalp to travel down the hair shaft.

This means that the scalp’s natural sebum is not evenly distributed along curly hair, and thus we need to moisturise regularly in order for the hair to stay strong and healthy. Because curly and coily hair tends to be drier, it requires less frequent shampooing. However, that does not mean that you can wait for wash day – your hair will need daily maintenance in‐between wash days to stay fresh, hydrated and moisturised.

We asked @curlsbytaryn, the founder of The Perfect Hair (a natural, vegan, proudly SA range of innovative curl care) and proud naturalista, for insights into her hair care regime, and how she keeps her hair moisturised and refreshed in‐between washes. “Refreshing curls in‐between wash days is actually an art. If you know, you know. Everything about the process of trying to style curls and coils when you have not started off with sopping wet, clean hair is a test of patience and resilience! You really want to simply spray‐n‐go before work or school, but it’s often only that easy for straighter locks that don’t fight back.

My curls fight back, with a passion, every day. They have a life of their own, and respond to different products, brushes and tools, different styles and different climates like a person who can’t make up their mind about what to order off the menu.

That’s why the curl life is such a world movement – it’s finally acknowledged that the struggle is real, the products are many, and the arms are sore from twisting and locking hair at night to ensure easier styling in the morning.

 Naturalistas go through synchronized morning and evening routines to keep our hair in good condition, because good condition means easier wash days, easier refresh days, easier life.” It’s no surprise that natural hair has made such a major comeback in recent years, despite requiring some maintenance. “Learning to love your natural hair, the passion with which we style, love and treat, the pride with which we wear it, is all great signs that self‐love is powerful, that we are powerful,” says Taryn.

Here are Taryn’s top three tips for refreshing curls and coils in‐between wash days:

1. Water is your friend. Use a spritzer of warm water or the steam from the shower to get curls damp before refreshing.

2. You will need a light blend of three products: firstly, apply a leave‐in cream to moisturize from root to tip, secondly, spray on an oil to seal in that goodness, and thirdly, apply a gel to tame edges and ends to minimize frizz and fuzz.

3. Use your fingers or a wide tooth comb to gently detangle once your moisturizing leave‐in cream has been applied; I use my fingers to twirl curls and reshape them, and a comb at the roots to add lift and shape, then an edge tamer to tidy everything up at the roots. Leave‐in creams to try: The Perfect Hair Mango & Marula Moisturizing Leave‐In Butter (R99.95) This luscious Leave‐In Moisturising Butter ensures your hair stays strong, and is perfect for all‐ natural curl care. It is enriched with mango and marula extracts for 24‐hour moisture and curl retention.

Cantu Shea Butter Leave‐In Conditioning Repair Cream (R139.95) This is a deeply nourishing treatment formulated with 100% pure shea butter and other natural oils to leave dry, damaged and coarse hair softer, more manageable and more resilient. Also helps to repair split ends and reduce frizz.

Oils to try:

The Perfect Hair Grow On The Go Oil Spray (R149.95) This oil spray contains rich Abyssinia and jojoba oils that provide intense treatment for a dry scalp while a basil root extract stimulates hair growth. You can use this oil treatment anywhere, anytime, on‐the‐go to keep your scalp moisturised and healthy.

Jamaican Mango & Lime Black Castor Oil Original 59ml (R79.95) Made from natural ingredients to remedy hair prone to dryness, this soothing Jamaican black castor oil moisturises hair, replenishing it and combating dryness from within hair strands.

Edge tamers to try:

The Perfect Hair Grow On The Go Edge Tamer Gel (R59.99) This Edge Tamer for curls and coils holds and tames your edges while adding shine and moisture to your hair. This non‐greasy control gel is infused with basil root to stimulate healthy hair growth while taming unruly edges.

Cantu Edge Gel Extra Hold (R149.99) Cantu Extra Hold Edge Gel conditions and smooths frizz and flyaway hair for shiny, sleek styles with a long‐lasting, flake‐free hold. Made with pure shea butter and formulated without harsh ingredients, this extra hold gel is perfect for polished, smooth styles and ponytails

The post How to refresh and care for curls appeared first on Sunpac.

It is possible to introduce a bit of colour without looking like a Christmas tree – we promise! And we’re not just talking party makeup. The right colour, when used appropriately, is totally office‐friendly. The key to pulling off colourful makeup is to focus colour in one area only. So if you’re wearing a bright pink or orange lip, keep your eyes and complexion subtle. If you’re wearing colours on your eyes, wear a nude lip colour and a soft shade of blush. Colour should be a focal point, and colours should never compete. Here’s our guide on how to pull off colourful makeup when you’re only used to neutrals.

Eyes Wearing colour makeup on your eyes enhances your eye colour, which could make your entire complexion look brighter. The subtlest way to introduce colourful eye makeup is to line your top lash line with a colour eyeliner. A single line is fun and summery, and because it’s clean and slick there’s no way for it to be over the top. The most skin‐tone‐friendly shades are blue, green and purple, but there are plenty of colour options on the market. If you can’t find an eyeliner in your desired shade, you can use eyeshadow. Wet your liner brush and swirl it in your powder eyeshadow to create a paste‐like consistency.

Carefully draw it on like you would a gel eyeliner. Tip: white eyeliner looks incredible on dark skin! Try wet n wild Color Icon Khol Liner Pencil in The Snow Must Go On (R24.95). Swapping out your nude eyeshadow for colour eyeshadows is much simpler than it may seem. If the straight transition from nude to colour is too much for you, opt for a gradual transition – you can introduce a soft mauve or olive green (both look great when paired with nude colours, by the way), at first, and gradually ease your way into brighter colours. If you love a smokey eye (be it black and charcoal or a nude and brown variant), you can quite easily introduce some colour. In fact, we’ve seen a major uptake in purple smokey eyes on the runways.

Essentially, you would create your smokey eye like normal, but instead of using various shades of black or brown, you’d opt for various shades of blue, purple, or whichever colour you like. The new wet n wild 10 Pan Eyeshadow Palettes (R169.95) are a great place to start, because they offer a mix of matte and shimmer shades, in nude and accent colours. Call Me Sunshine has beautiful warm gold and bronze shades, making it a great option for a summery smokey eye, while Heart & Sol offers pretty peach, pink and purple shades. For a pastel dream‐come‐true, we recommend wet n wild 5 Pan Eyeshadow Palette (R119.95) in Petalette which features five gorgeous pastel purples. For flawless eye makeup application, we recommend the Real Techniques Everyday Essential Eye Brush Set (R499.99). With seven new brushes and a metal lash separator, this kit has your every eye makeup need covered.

No eye makeup look is complete without a few lashings of your favourite mascara. Try the new wet n wild Big Poppa Mascara (R154.95), a volumizing, lengthening and intensely black mascara for outrageous volume, length and lift. Lips To pull off a colourful lip, it’s important to keep your lips soft and hydrated, as colour emphasizes dryness and flakiness. Give your lips a gentle weekly scrub to remove dry skin cells, and apply a hydrating lip balm daily. When you choose your new lipstick, find a formulation that’s nourishing and moisturising, so that it keeps the skin soft and plump. A bright or dark lipstick requires more maintenance than a nude, as smudges and bleeding will be more prominent. Keep your lipstick and a little pocket mirror on you, so that you can touch up after meals or throughout the day as required. They say there is a perfect red for every complexion, and we believe it! If you don’t know where to start, try this simple guide: Fair skin tones can wear a bright red for a bold pop of colour and usually look best when matched with cool reds or berry reds with blue undertones.

Medium skin tones are possibly the most versatile when it comes to picking a red lipstick, as both cool and warm reds will be complementary, but bear in mind that corals and orange‐reds might make the skin appear dull. Darker skin tones look fantastic when matched with fiery and vibrant reds, but pull off wine reds and shades of berry too. For a high shine finish, try wet n wild Megalast High Shine Lipstick (R99.95) in Crimson Crime or Fire Fighting, and for a matte finish, try wet n wild Megalast Matte Lipstick (R99.95) in Sexpot Red or Red Velvet. If you’re not quite ready for red, start with a pink‐ish colour a few shades darker than your natural lip colour.

Once you’re used to that, you can experiment with striking shades of pink, berry, red and coral. wet n wild Megalast Stained Glass Lip Gloss (R139.95) in Handle With Care and Magic Mirror are a good place to start. Face If you wear a neutral blush (or none at all), it’s time to consider a pop of colour. Pink is the most popular shade, but pale shades of peach, coral and berry are great summer options too. If you’re not too keen on blush, why not invest in a shimmery highlighter or bronzer? Powder formulations are the easiest to master if you’re a beginner. Tip: If your blush, bronzer or highlighter is shimmery, pair it with a matte eyeshadow or eyeliner rather than a shimmery eyeshadow, to avoid sparkle‐overload. Try wet n wild Megaglo Highlighting Powder (R109.95) for a pretty pearlescent finish in an easily blendable formula or wet n wild MegaGlo Blushlighter (R129.95), a pressed‐powder duo that highlights, sculpts and defines in one application. The Real Techniques Everyday Essentials Brush Set (R599.00) contains all the tools you need for expert makeup application, including a Miracle Complexion Sponge, Setting Brush, Expert Face Brush, Deluxe Crease Brush and Blush Brush that can easily be used for bronzer and highlighter too.

 Nails Here is where you can go all out. Your nails offer the perfect opportunity to play with colour (bear in mind that dark or bright colours look best on short, neatly rounded nails). If your office has a strict dress code, you might want to stick to pastel shades (think soft lavenders, mints and peaches), and leave the brights and neons for your toes. If you don’t feel comfortable rocking a bright colour on your hands, consider it for your next pedicure instead. Try wet n wild Wild Shine Nail Colour (R35.95) in Be More Pacific (a beautiful aqua), Ready To Propose (a glamourous gold) or Red Red (an elegant, everyday red).

For a salon‐quality manicure you can achieve at home, without any mess or fuss, we recommend Kiss Impress Press‐On Manicure. Available in two ranges: Colour (R139.95; solid colours in every season’s hottest shades) and Design (R149.95; subtle but striking nail art designs including glitter and patterns), these press‐on nails give you the gel look with a super comfortable fit. Plus, no glue is needed, you just press on and go, making them ultra‐convenient

The post The neutral girl’s guide to wearing colourful makeup appeared first on Sunpac.

There are so many different formulas available when it comes to items like foundation, blush, highlighter and bronzer, be it liquid, powder, cream or mousse. While most makeup products are suitable for anyone to use, there’s no doubt that certain formulations work better on certain skin types.

Oily and combination skin types

Oily and combination skins produce too much sebum, which can lead to clogged and enlarged pores, blackheads and breakouts, as well as a shiny complexion. People with very oily skin sometimes have difficulty finding a foundation that doesn’t slide off the skin after a couple of hours.

A makeup primer can help keep your foundation in place. Pretty By Flormar’s Mattifying Primer (R149.95) and wet n wild’s Coverall Primer (R109.95) are both great options to consider. Liquid matte foundation formulations are a perfect match for oily and combination skin as they are usually oil‐free and won’t leave a greasy sheen on the skin.

Pretty By Flormar Get Real Matte Foundation (R164.95) has a creamy texture to ensure smooth application but an oil‐free formulation that offers matte coverage. wet n wild PhotoFocus Foundation (R119.95) is a high‐performing, skin‐ perfecting foundation specially made with a matte, light‐diffusing complex to give your skin #nofilter perfection.

When it comes to selecting blush, bronzers or highlighters, powder formulations work best on oily skin types as they absorb moisture. It’s best to avoid liquid formulations as these may slide off the skin or end up looking overly shiny. wet n wild Color Icon Bronzer (R99.95) applies like a cream but has a powder finish and a long‐wearing formula, so it’ll stay put all day.

Pretty By Flormar Baked Highlighter (R149.95) and Baked Blush (R164.95) are great powder options for oily skins that don’t skimp on shimmer and colour pay‐off. For oily skin, an eyelid primer is a non‐negotiable. Prime your eyelids with wet n wild PhotoFocus Eyeshadow Primer (R109.95) to lock your eyeshadow in place all day long.

Dry or dehydrated skin types

Dry and dehydrated skin types lack either sufficient oil or water. This can lead to a dull or lacklustre complexion, scaling, cracking and flaking. These skin types benefit from moisture‐boosting makeup products, as well as those that create a faux glow.

Avoid matte foundations if your skin is dry or dehydrated, as these can make the skin look dull and exaggerate a flaky texture. Opt for a dewy liquid or cream foundation like wet n wild’s PhotoFocus Dewy Foundation (R119.95) instead.

The moisturising formula blends seamlessly while blurring imperfections and gives the skin a dewy finish. Because this is such a lightweight foundation, it’s best applied with a brush. The Real Techniques Expert Face Brush (R235.49) has ultra‐plush firm bristles for easy application of liquid foundations. To blend the colour perfectly, we recommend the Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge (R156.49). It can be used damp or dry and is suitable for both liquid and cream foundations.

 Dry skins may benefit from choosing cream, stick or liquid highlighters, bronzers or contouring products rather than powder formulations. wet n wild’s MegaGlo Dual‐Ended Contour Stick (R129.95) has a contouring and a highlighting end in a handy stick format that glides on with ease. If you have dry skin, opt for a liquid concealer rather than a stick concealer as the formula will glade across your skin more easily and offer more moisture.

The wet n wild PhotoFocus Concealer (R74.95) hides blemishes, dark circles and scars while brightening the skin – a major bonus for dry skins that lean towards the lacklustre side. All skin types rely on a good quality skincare routine to ensure skin gets the nutrients and hydration it needs, and also to prep the skin before makeup application. ZERO Face Wash (R299) is a fantastic cleanser for all skin types.

This plant‐based gel cleanser gently washes away makeup, dirt and impurities without stripping the skin of its natural moisture. ZERO Day Cream (R399) and Night Cream (R399) offer skin a boost of hydration, but their natural ingredients won’t clog pores or lead to increased sebum production

The post How to select makeup based on your skin type appeared first on Sunpac.

 Here’s how to fix the problem (and prevent it in future!) Braids are a fantastic protective style, but the only downside is the potential for too much tension. Your hairstylist may want to braid tightly so that the style lasts as long as possible, but in order to preserve the health of your hair and scalp, braids should have medium tension.

This means having them done more regularly, which isn’t ideal, but in the long‐run, the sacrifice is worth it. Tension is not only painful, but it’s also very damaging to your scalp and hair follicles. Too much tension can cause hair loss and breakage, thinning of the hairline, and can even lead to permanent damage to the scalp.

When braids are too tight, they can cause follicular pustules – inflamed, raised bumps on the scalp, or even traction alopecia (hair loss caused by repeated pulling or tension hairstyles). If action is taken early, it’s possible that the hair will grow back over time, but if the hair is pulled by tension repeatedly, it may lead to permanent hair loss. How do you know if your braids are too tight? Well for one, they’ll hurt!

While many women have come to associate some level of pain with braids, any pain at all is an indicator that something is wrong. Secondly, you may notice little bumps around your hair line that weren’t there prior to your install. If you are a seasoned braid wearer and you experience hair breakage, hair thinning or hair loss, you may have been wearing your braids too tight and not preparing your hair with the necessary treatments.

Avoid too‐tight braids, or remedy the situation, with these tips:

Talk to your stylist

Ask your stylist to braid with medium tension before she starts, and if you think she’s using too much tension as she’s working, don’t be afraid to speak up. Use warm water Warm (not hot!) water can be a remedy for too‐tight braids. If your braids are feeling a little tight, allow warm water to run over them in the shower, and – very gently – massage your scalp to loosen the braids a little.

Wear your braids down

By wearing your braids in a ponytail or bun, you may increase tension by further pulling at the roots. Wear your braids down to help loosen any tension and allow your scalp to adjust. Use a leave‐in conditioner Your scalp may feel drier than usual when your hair is braided.

Apply a leave‐in conditioner to soothe the area, hydrate your scalp and loosen up your braids. Be careful not to use too much though as it may cause unwanted build‐up. We recommend a spray leave‐in conditioner like Crème of Nature’s Argan Oil Perfect 7‐in‐1 Leave In treatment (R135.00). It can easily be spritzed between braids and cover all areas of the scalp while providing breakage defence, moisturization and plenty of other nourishing benefits.

To give your scalp a moisture boost, try Jamaican Mango & Lime’s Sproil Spray Oil (R85.99) – simply spray onto your head to lubricate your scalp and offer protection from dryness. Leaves your hair strengthened, protected and shiny.

Use a scalp‐care product

Winter is an extremely trying time for hair, and this is no different when it comes to braids. The scalp is particularly vulnerable during winter, and you are much more likely to develop dandruff or a dry and flaky scalp during this time. Using an oil or scalp care product regularly will ensure your scalp is hydrated and healthy pre‐braids, as well as while your braids are in. Try Cantu Shea Butter Tea Tree & Jojoba Hair & Scalp Oil (R169.99). It conditions the scalp to support healthy hair growth and uses the power of some of nature’s most moisturising oils to help protect dry and damaged hair from breakage.

The Perfect Hair Grow on the Go Treatment Hair Growth Oil (R149.99) contains rich Abyssinia and jojoba oils that provide intense treatment for a dry scalp while a basil root extract stimulates hair growth. You can use this oil treatment anywhere, anytime, on‐the‐go to keep your scalp moisturised and healthy.

Massage your scalp Massage increases blood flow, which is essential for a healthy scalp and healthy hair growth. Using a tonic or hair oil will make your massage smoother and also offer your hair and scalp some added hydration. We recommend a nourishing oil like Jamaican Mango & Lime’s Black Castor Oil (R155.00). It soothes while moisturising and combatting dryness.

Know when it’s time to remove them If your braids are very painful and show no signs of improvement, or you notice bumps on your hairline and scalp, it’s time to cut your losses and have them taken out. This is not what you want to hear after spending hours in the hairstylist’s chair, but it’s the only way to prevent hair loss and damage. Once you’ve had them removed, give your hair and scalp some extra TLC.

A hot oil treatment as well as a protein masque Cantu Grow strong treatment (R139.95) might be just what your hair needs, or alternatively, try using a calming oil or scalp care product with anti‐inflammatory properties. Braids should never be kept longer than 4‐6 weeks.

And don’t forget about conditioner – a calming deep conditioner will help restore your hair and scalp. The Perfect Hair’s Mango & Marula Detangling Deep Conditioner (R89.99), enriched with mango butter and marula, coconut and castor oil, conditions and soften the hair with an intense moisture boost. Cantu Shea Butter Natural Hair Intensive Repair Masque (R59.99) is another great option: penetrates deep into the hair shaft for an intense treatment to repair, restore and strengthen hair.

The post How to prevent braids from being too tight appeared first on Sunpac.

Over‐styling, exposure to heat and environmental aggressors and product build‐up calls for a hair detox, while dehydration, breakage, split ends and damage calls for repair. More often than not, detox and repair go hand‐in‐hand, with some repair needed once the detox is complete. Here’s how to perfect both processes at home.

Detox Cleanse hair from build‐up Everyday hair care products like conditioner, hair masks, styling aids and heat protection mists can result in build‐up if you don’t use a shampoo specifically designed to deeply cleanse and clarify. A detox shampoo ensures oil, dirt, impurities and product build‐up are swiftly removed.

Try: Marc Anthony Hair & Scalp Detox Purify and Refresh Shampoo (from R159.95) is infused with willow bark and black pepper to deeply cleanse your hair and scalp. Hask Tea Tree Oil Invigorating Shampoo (from R179.95) cleanses your hair while leaving it scented with aromatherapy oils. Smelling of fresh bergamot, basil and sandalwood, your hair will be soothed and restored, leaving it feeling soft and refreshed.

Embrace the power of charcoal Charcoal is known as a brilliant detoxifier. For stubborn build‐up, try charcoal‐infused shampoos and conditioners: OGX Purifying Charcoal Detox Shampoo (from R199.95) offers a deep clean detox. This clarifying blend infused with activated coconut charcoal and kaolin clay will help bust through build‐up, letting clean strands shine through.

Renpure Detoxifying Charcoal Shampoo and Conditioner (from R149.95 each) is a fantastic plant‐ based duo that uses natural charcoal to remove impurities and deeply cleanse hair without stripping it of moisture. Refresh your scalp It’s not just the lengths of your hair that may be in need of a detox – our scalps deserve some TLC too.

Pay close attention to your scalp: is it excessively oily, dry and flaky, or maybe itchy and irritable? A healthy scalp is the first step to healthy hair, so when you’re detoxing your hair, invest in a scalp treatment to restore and soothe the skin. Marc Anthony Hair & Scalp Detox Instant Cooling Scalp Treatment (R179.99) provides instant cooling relief for a dry and irritated scalp. This scalp treatment contains peppermint oil and witch hazel, which leave your scalp feeling refreshed.

Repair Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate There are many ways to restore the condition of your hair, but almost all of them require hydration. Like our skin, our hair contains moisture naturally, but this moisture gets depleted when we heat style, over‐wash or when our hair gets exposed to the elements. It is important to replenish lost moisture through your hair care routine.

Select products that are specifically designed to hydrate and boost moisture levels. The new Marc Anthony Hydralock range consists of a Hydrating Shampoo (from R159,95), Hydrating Conditioner (from R159,95), Moisture recharge Hair Mist (from R169.95) and Hydra shot Conditioning Treatment (R64.95) that offers maximum hydration while maintaining a lightweight texture.

If you’re looking for a plant‐based alternative, Renpure’s Keratin and Argan Shampoo (from R149.95) and Conditioner (R149.95) are a great option. Restorative argan oil helps nourish and moisturise while keratin smoothes over the hair’s cuticles. Get your hair mask on A weekly or bi‐weekly hair mask is the added step you need to add to your regime to speed up the repair process. Whether you prefer a leave‐in oil, a regular hair mask or a conditioning treatment, this extra step makes all the difference, and is also an opportunity for you to take time out and practise some self‐care. We recommend: Provoke Intensive Conditioner for Blondes (from R119.95). Its rich and luxurious formula improves the hair’s condition after just one treatment. It contains restorative proteins which intensively target dry, damaged and coloured hair, leaving it feeling smooth and moisturised. OGX Coconut miracle oil hair mask (extra strength) (from R179.95) helps revive your senses and your strands. This rich oil helps to calm frizz and tame flyaways, leaving hair silky soft and shiny, while adding plenty of moisture and nourishment. Hask Argan Oil Intense Deep Conditioning Hair Treatment (from R74.99) gets to work on dry and damaged hair to restore lost moisture and prevent breakage.

This intense conditioner also nourishes hair and keeps it looking healthy and shiny. If you like an oil texture, try Hask Argan Oil Healing Shine Hair Treatment (from R74.99). This weightless and intense conditioning treatment helps repair and smooth out hair using nourishing argan oil and keratin. Don’t shampoo every day It’s tempting to shampoo your hair every day in summer when it’s hot, but it’s good to give your hair a break and opt for every second or third day if possible. Shampooing too regularly can cause dehydration of the scalp and hair. COLAB Sheer & Invisible Dry Shampoos (From R79.95) are a lifesaver on those in‐between days.

They leave no white residue, they smell fantastic and they work wonders when it comes to hiding greasy roots. Be gentle There are so many ways in which one’s hair can get damaged, that it’s easy to forget that mechanical damage is also one of the main culprits. By mechanical, we mean vigorous towel‐drying, brushing and pulling. Whether you’re trying to repair your hair or prevent it from getting damaged, it’s important to gently pat wet hair down with a towel (or cotton t‐shirt) rather than rubbing it, and to brush or comb hair gently – especially when it is knotted. Specially formulated with IntelliFlex bristles, the Wet Brush eliminates all tugging, tearing, pulling and ripping of the hair to ensure no split ends or hair loss while providing healthy brushing and detangling.

The bristle flexibility enables protective and pain‐free detangling, so that you can brush your hair without any risk of causing further damage. We love the design of the limited edition Turquoise Skies Wet Brush (from R175.00), and for those who are after an eco‐friendly solution, the Wet Brush Go Green Detangler (from R280.00) is made from natural biodegradable plant starch that will naturally break down in a landfill within 5 years

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But there’s one downside: wearing something on your head could result in hair oiliness, flatness, frizz, static and kinks, a range of annoying hair tendencies otherwise known as “hat hair.” While a hat or beanie is a fantastic way of hiding a bad hair day, it could also result in one.

Luckily you don’t have to sacrifice style or warmth this winter – there is hope for preventing dreaded hat hair. Try these easy tips to ensure your hair looks its best when your hat or beanie comes off.

Shampoo regularly

Hats and beanies generate a lot of heat beneath them, and while this is great for staying warm, it often results in flat, greasy roots. An easy way to solve this is to keep a bottle of good quality dry shampoo on‐hand. Once you remove your hat, spritz the dry shampoo onto the roots, massage and brush out – not only will the greasiness be gone, but dry shampoo is known to give your roots a lift too.

If you’re privy to head wear, you might need to shampoo a little bit more regularly than usual. Choose a shampoo that’s gentle on the hair and scalp, and that won’t strip your hair scalp of moisture. Mane ‘n Tail’s Herbal Gro Shampoo (R199.95) is formulated with natural herbs blended with an olive oil complex to nourish, strengthen, and fortify hair from root to tip. It gently cleanses hair and is designed to prevent breakage, frizz, and split ends, making it a great option for hat‐ wearers.

In addition to static, hats and beanies can also lead to frizz. Marc Anthony Bye Bye Frizz Keratin Smoothing Shampoo (R144.99) transforms frizzy hair into smooth silky locks. Infused with K‐silk complex and amino acid blend to repair damage and create soft, shiny, manageable hair.

Opt for natural fibres

Natural fibres like pure wool, cotton or cashmere are the answer to avoiding static, as artificial fibres like nylon and polyester increases the hair’s static tendencies. It’s also important to select a comfortable fit. Tight beanies and hats will have a greater effect on your hair and are also more likely to make your scalp greasy as your scalp will perspire at the roots. Whenever possible, opt for a loose‐fitting style.

Never wear a hat or beanie over wet hair

Be sure that your hair is completely dry before you put your hat on, as a hat will mould wet hair and flatten it too (and it’s almost impossible to fix without washing it again). If you’re blow‐drying it to minimise drying time, remember to spray a heat protectant product on it beforehand. Not only will this protect your hair from damage, but it will also help preserve its moisture. Try Hask Curl Care 5‐ In‐1 Leave‐In Spray (R189.99). It detangles to prevent breakage, seals in moisture, softens and adds shine, provides thermal protection and up to 24‐hour frizz control.

Work with your natural style

Wearing a hat strategically may help to prevent unwanted kinks in your hair. Let your hair fall in its natural direction before putting your hat on. This includes your fringe: if you have one, let it fall naturally rather than pull it back into the opposite direction. You can always secure it using a few pins before you put your hat on.

Add volume

Hats and beanies almost always flatten hair. Avoid the worst of it by increasing your hair’s volume before putting on your hat. Start off with some volumising spray and tease or back‐comb your hair a little to increase its volume. This will add some height and padding, and prevent your hair from falling completely flat once you take your hat off.

Invest in a volume‐boosting hair care routine to help lift your strands. HASK Biotin Boost Thickening Shampoo and Conditioner (R179.95) help volumise, strengthen and fortify hair. Marc Anthony’s Big Volume range is another great option. Marc Anthony Big Volume Thickening Cream (R169.95) contains ultra‐lightweight microfiber bonding technology that works with body‐boosting ingredients to create root lift and weightless volume. Marc Anthony Big Volume 7 in 1 Foam (R169.95) is a multi‐tasking foam that offers conditioning and volumizing benefits. Microfibers plump your strands and lift your roots – just what you need on hat days!

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When we first started using the word “green” to describe beauty products, very few brands came to mind. There were a handful of options available, some completely natural and others cruelty-free. It was a niche market with a small following.

Today, a lot has changed and globally, a major mind-shift has taken shape. Gone are the days when shoppers chose products mindlessly: today’s consumers want to know what’s in their products, how it was manufactured and what brands are doing to offset their carbon footprints… And rightfully so. Mindfulness is the new black, with a major global uptake in vegan lifestyles and minimalist living.

These movements paved the way for new and existing “green” beauty brands to grow, and major international brands have also come to the party. We are seeing more and more mainstream or “mass” brands do their bit to be kinder to the Earth, be it adopting a cruelty-free policy, changing their packaging or re-formulating their products.

While this is fantastic news, it can be quite difficult to navigate the realm of green beauty products if you’re not certain what to look for. A couple of popular terms to look out for are:

Vegan: If a product is labelled “vegan,” it means that no animal products, or animal-derived ingredients have been used in the manufacturing of that product. Vegan products are also cruelty-free.

Cruelty-free: If a product is “cruelty-free” it means that it has not been tested on animals, and that no ingredients used in the manufacture of that product has been tested on animals. Cruelty-free products are not necessarily vegan.

Plant-based: These products are made only from plant ingredients, such as such as fruits, vegetables, herbs, seeds, whole grains, legumes and nuts. 

Natural: Natural products refer to products that are made from ingredients found in nature. The term sometimes suggests that the product is free from synthetic chemicals that may be linked to health problems or that many people get irritated by such as fragrance, dyes, and certain preservatives such as parabens.

Organic: Organic products refer to items which contain organically grown ingredients: it must be prepared and grown without pesticides, chemical fertilizers, GMOs, sulphates/parabens or antibiotics.

Why does it matter?

Taking a greener approach to life and making sustainable choices is not just a fad – it’s crucial in slowing down the process of global warming and protecting nature and our natural resources. A small act like changing your shampoo might seem insignificant, but every bit helps.  

Sunpac boasts a number of beauty brands making a difference:

Skincare

ZERO skincare is a 100% natural, plant-based, vegan skincare brand from the UK. Made from the highest quality botanical ingredients, all ZERO products are sustainably packaged and fully recyclable. Try: ZERO Natural Face Wash (R299.00) and Face Scrub (R299.00). This gentle duo is highly effective in removing makeup, dirt and impurities, leaving skin thoroughly cleansed and smooth.

Get an all year round glow with St Moriz – this award-winning self-tan brand is vegan and cruelty-free. Try: St Moriz Fast Tan Mousse (R149.95) for a quick tan where you determine the intensity of the shade, or St Moriz Golden Glow Moisturizer (R149.95) for a soft and natural golden glow.

Makeup

Not only is wet n wild known for their high quality makeup products at affordable prices, but they’re also known for being 100% cruelty-free! Try: wet n wild Dewy Foundation (R119.95) for all day, glowy skin, wet n wild Mega Length Mascara (R92.95) for extra long lashes and wet n wild Megalast Matte Lipstick (R99.95) for long-wearing lip colour.

When it comes to makeup brushes, you’re spoilt for choice. Real Techniques, one of the world’s leading makeup brush brands, is vegan, cruelty-free and PETA-certified, meaning that all products have not and will not be subject to animal testing, regardless of where the product is sold. Try: Real Techniques The Everyday Essential Set (R599.99) – a must-have brush kit that will allow you to achieve a flawless daily look with ultimate convenience. This set includes four brushes and a sponge to cover every need from foundation to eyeshadow.

Eco Tools is known for their quality selection of environmentally-friendly makeup brushes. The brushes are made from sustainable bamboo and recycled aluminium and the bristles are cruelty-free. Try: Eco Tools Flat Foundation Brush (R152.00) to evenly apply liquid or cream foundation, and Eco Tools Precision Blush Brush (R233.00) for fantastic blending of powdered foundation or blush.

Hair care

Hask hair care products are not only cruelty-free and Leaping Bunny certified, but their products are also formulated without the bad stuff (including: Sulfates, Parabens, Phthalates, Gluten and Aluminum Starch). Try: the new Curl Care collection by Hask, a range of products developed to help support smooth, defined and bouncy curls, without the stiff and crunchy feeling sometimes associated with curl products. Quench and restore your curls with the HASK Curl Care Intensive Deep Conditioner (R189.95). This rich, luxe formula (a miracle blend of coconut oil, argan oil & vitamin E) adds strength, softness and shine, whilst resisting humidity to help lock-out uneven stands and lock-in moisture to help maintain your natural curl pattern.

Give your curls long-lasting control with the HASK Curl Shaping Jelly (R189.95). This flexible, non-sticky formula sculpts waves and curls without leaving them stiff or crunchy.

Colab dry shampoos are not only vegan and cruelty-free, but they’re also highly effective at refreshing hair and soaking up grease without leaving any white residue behind. Try: newly-launched scents Colab Boho Rose (R89.99) and Black Violet (R89.99).

Blessed with curly hair? The Perfect Hair’s Mango & Marula range is vegan! Enriched with nourishing mango butter and marula oils, this range is designed to treat and protect natural hair of all curl textures. Try: The Perfect Hair Mango & Marula Detangling Deep Conditioner (R89.99) for an intense moisture boost and The Perfect Hair Mango & Marula Soap-Free Silky Soft Shampoo (R89.99) for a soft and gentle cleanse.

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