We have missed you, too! My hair has been ok. My stylist trimmed a little more of my ends than I wanted her to, so I plan to trim my own ends and work out a schedule. I also plan to go back to washing my hair weekly again, at least temporarily. I noticed faster hair growth that way.
Because you’re EXTREMELY in tune with your hair, I have zero doubt that you’ll bounce back! I do hope that while in this journey (going back to what worked in the past) you post what you’re doing. I’ve mirrored your routine to the T (except self relaxing), and everything works for me. I would love to mimic what you’ll be doing going forward!
Am on a low side too dear, A hairstylist cut off my hair 🤦🏻♀️and l have even posted it on my channel,we are growing it back healthy and longer ❤thanks for the update
Girl, I watched that video, and my mouth dropped. I couldn't believe how much she cut off. I hate that you had such a bad experience. You'll be back to longer hair in no time. 💜
I realize that as I got older my hair & texture changed. I use to be able to smooth more, let it sit for a few mins. Now I rinse out as soon as I’m finished relaxing because it processes quick & it will get bone straight & lifeless
Yes!! We need to discuss aging hair. That can definitely be a contributing factor in how our hair responds to color, relaxers etc. Thanks for sharing hun and for watching💕
My 2025 goal, is to get on this challenge with you...the older I get i noticed change in my hair as well. The thickness is not the same and I swear one side actually feels thicker than the other, so either way I am down for this challenge... please keep us posted, especially us that want to do it ❤❤
Yes you’re not the only one that’s struggling with hair issues right now . I’m really distraught over my hair . I’m honestly really close to cutting it down to @ 3-4 inches long …. Sad but true🧐🤨 I wished mine looked as good as yours. Thanks for the transparency Luv’ Blessings❤
Welcome back Val! I am sorry to hear of your recent relaxer challenges. I have also been struggling with finding the perfect routine that gives me the results I am looking for. I had to part ways with Affirm Lye for different reasons affecting my scalp. The struggle is real with finding the right relaxer system and routine. Thankfully, you know your hair well and know exactly what to do to get your hair back to the way you like it
Hey Val, so happy to get an update… honestly I’m in the same boat.. somewhere I went wrong couldn’t figure out where.. switched to AFFIRM system towards the end of 2023.. and I truly believe I’ve definitely over processed my hair.. I’m in this RESET journey with you!! Ive been able to stop breakage but it’s thin on the ends. I felt defeated until this video.. I’m doing a wash and trim tomorrow.. THANK YOU SO MUCH!! 🙏🏽♥️💇🏽♀️
The way I got so happy to see a new video! 🙌🏾. But I'm sorry to hear about the problems you've been experiencing. At first, I was like, what's wrong with having bone straight hair, it's gonna gradually thicken back up, but then you explained about it being more prone to breakage, and I understand. Just keep it moisturized everyday, like you mentioned. That's what I've been doing lately...moisturizing every night before I wrap it, and I hardly notice any shedding..just normal amounts once I go to comb through it. Thanks for the update, and I'm confident that you'll be fine ❤.
Welcome back we missed you Val. My hair has been going through some things too, I’m getting it back on track. I may need to do a big chop. I find doing the neutralizing conditioner before using the normalizing shampoo after the relaxer is less drying on my hair and it’s softer.
Hi Val. I am ready, able and willing to partake of a healthy hair challenge with you and your followers. For many years I did not have a "routine". I tried your routine and immediately noticed a difference. It was the aphogee 2 min. leave in mixed with coconut oil pre poo and the keracare humectant with what I call "AOC"......avocado, olive and coconut oils as a deep conditioner. Some how I strayed due to fear of protein overload. It is a delicate balance. I have to put this back in my routine, if not every week maybe every other. But my hair is thriving because of you and your routines. Thank you. By the way, you hair may be shorter, but it is still full and healthy looking.
Hi Val, I noticed your hair was more straight from the video you posted when you went on the group trip to Barbados but I attributed it to the styling. I pray you are able to resolve these hair problems. It’s funny how issues with our hair gets us emotional. You can do it and please dont forget to update us 😘
I noticed as I get older my hair is finer and straighter! It also may have something to do with the ingredients being updated to cater to health concerns!
There was another TH-camr who used the Affirm System and unintentionally her hair would be under processed. I‘ve always been put off by her experience.
I'm so so happy to see your return! Unfortunately, we're both experiencing a similar issue. I'm also trimming my ends to help combat this frustrating matter. Our hair is very similar, but yours is a bit more thicker. It's disheartening when setbacks like this occur but with time, patience, and more knowledge we'll bounce back. At least you'll have great content and company for a journey you'd rather not have to take. Good luck to you, myself, and anyone else taking this trip! 🛫 ✌🏽💕
Idk why, in this day, some people don't watch how far they're dunking your hair in boiling hot water. I had the same issues with being underprocessed, and I was over it, so I went back to the salon, and it's made a huge difference. I was just tired of doing my own relaxers, especially because I only get 2-3 relaxers a year, so I don't mind paying for it. You'll get back to where you wanna be cause if anything you have the knowledge and that's what matters. Yes, for the challenge. 💜
Sis! It was a travesty lol. The hot water did play a role in the damage of my ends along with the tension, chlorine, salt water etc. Ugh! Lesson learned. I hear you on going to the salon for touch ups, especially if it’s not so often, it makes sense. I would love to find a stylist who cares for my hair as much as I do but I haven’t been so fortunate lol. So glad you’re down for the challenge. I’ll work out the details💕
When I wore a relaxer I have to admit that I didn’t care for my hair the way it needed to be cared for. My hair is natural and I’m taking better care of it by giving my hair what it needs.
Hi Val, Your hair looks good, and nice length, Still. And that's it right there. Healthy scalp and hair are key. That's where I am. When I made a video maybe a few weeks back.That's all what mattered using things that work sticking to a healthy hair care regiment.. And not worrying about length at all like you see some they'radjust focusing on length, Just keep doing you so much for sharing.Have a wonderful weekend.God bless you❤❤❤❤
Hey lady! Your hair is lovely! I just went back to natural in September. I stretched for 8 months, then did a big chop. I'm planning to grow my hair out to it's full potential! Right now I'm working with a six inch afro! I plan to continue with my tried and true regime established in 2006. I'll never stray from it; Wash and deep condition twice a week (Monday and Thursday). Sleep in 4 detangled, moisturized puffs that i make sure to baggy every night. Trim 4 times a year (January, April, July and October! Take my supplements By summer 2026 my hair should be back where I started, then ill focus on continuing to grow it out. At 43 my hair refuses to stay full in it's relaxed state. In my 20's it was a whole different ball game! My natural hair is THICK so at this point I'm rolling with it!
Thank u so much fr sharing, and being so transparent...it really blessed me to focus on health, the length will come, with a healthy regiment...ty ty ty...❤❤❤
I decided to get braids for my birthday and it's official that my hair hates synthetics. I thought I was safe because it was large knotless and it was minimal stress. I went in washed, deep conditioned and blow dried. I know my hair is thick, but I should have known it was downhill when she blow dried again for a minute or two. I was 3 weeks post relaxer so there was no need imo. I only had it in for 2 weeks and my shedding was crazy. I have learned to just listen to my hair and accept these styles are not for me. Thank God the damage is unnoticeable. It was a setback, but I am back on track after four weeks of recovery.
I’m a Mizani user now. Years ago a stylist was using Affirm on me. It would straighten my hair beautifully, but over time, I started getting severe breakage and had to do a huge cut.😢 Come to find out, the relaxer was just too strong for my hair. It’s grown back now, and I’m focused on moisture and length retention.
I’m sad that you are on a low point, even though your hair looks great. I’m in the low boat as well sis, with bad scalp and dry hair. I have only used affirm, the dry and itchy scalp, no relaxer issues though. I hope we both get our desired results this year. Great to see you back.
I’m so glad to see you posted!! I was so excited! I know this journey has its ups and downs but you’re built for this!! I would love a hair reset challenge. I planned on going back to relaxed hair and working on my hair health as well as retention 🙌🏾 I feel as though the natural hair taught me how to build a regimen and now I know what I’ll need to implement and how to take care of it better this time around
Hey Val, I was so happy to see you pop up on TH-cam. Question, you said that you’re gonna go to deep conditioning twice a week so does that mean you’ll be washing your hair twice a week? Also can you do an updated video on how you use the S- curl spray?
My hair is definitely over-processed. I started dyeing my hair and it really changed my hair texture. I like the idea of a mid week deep conditioning. I’m going to start that. 🧡 #healthyhair
I'm in the middle of a 6 month stretch because my right side was over processed because I would start relaxing on that side because it was always under processed. It would shed or break no matter what treatment I did for it to stop. I aggressively trimmed and the Silk Elements Cholesterol 2/3 times a week brought back my elasticity and now my right side is just as healthy as the left. Just waiting on my Sally's order with my Motions relaxer, trying to decide if I'm going relax now or wait until June. Definitely down for a challenge.
That's the decision I just made today..I am older..my hair is fine and thin😕 transitioning back to natural using ingredients that were frowned upon..sulfates silicones and protein formulated in my deep conditioners and leave in..rollerset weekly and keep it moving..not a wig sew in braid twist out bantu knots type of sister😂
This is literally meeeee! I'm 43 and my hair will NOT stay thick after I grow past 16 inches. This has been going on for 7 years! I finally said forget it last January and haven't relaxed since. I did my big chop in September 2024 and growing my hair out natural henceforth. The density of my natural texture is unmatched. Thickness over length at this point. I want to grow it to full potential while being ok with the shrinkage that comes with natural hair ❤
I use affirm as well. I would get concerned when the neutralizer shampoo was white. It never color changed as I washed the relaxer out. So I used another neutralizer shampoo and it turned out the initial shampoo wasn’t washing out all of the relaxer. So I used another neutralizer a different neutralizer shampoo to wash out all of the relaxer then Wash once with the affirm neutralizer shampoo then use the step 3 for treatment
Oh noooo now I'm scared 😱 I just bought Affirm dry & itchy normalizing shampoo but I'm gonna have my Motions neutralizing shampoo on stand-by just in case 😅
Hi Val thanks so much for sharing. You are the best and I am down for any challenge. I too had to reset. My goal for 2025 is healthy strong hair. As always thanks for your truthfulness 🥰🙂
Thanks hun🫶🏾 Your goal is the same as mine!! Healthier hair is definitely the focus. Yay!! Glad to have you down for the challenge. I think it would be great to have all of us motivate, encourage and support each other💕
I’m currently dealing with hair thinning due to low iron, massive breakage and shedding. Basically starting over. Few months ago I felt with the same thing, braids being dipped on extremely hot hair.
I have the opposite problem, my stylist has been under-processing for a bit. I also have had a lot of split ends and gaps in my hair. So I am holding off on my relaxer for a while while I focus on repairing as many of the bonds as possible. Also incorporating monthly protein treatments and light protein in-between. Set backs are so darn annoying and really disappointing.
Hi Val, I have had a hair set back as well. I cut off 2 inches and I am starting my journey over. Are you considering going back to ORS relaxer? It seemed to work well for you❤
Yeah.. my hair used to love Affirm. For years. I was like maybe I got a bad batch? No, I think it was a combination of the relaxer and my perimenopausal hair. I’ve let the gray come thru for the last two years and the gray is its own texture by itself 😩. I cut it to a micro pixie to start over and went back to Vitale, for now. So far, it’s ok but the gray is still graying😩🤷🏾♀️. Anywho, you’ve got this and your hair still looks beautiful!👏🏾
Hair looks great, but I had to yield my relaxers to my salon. She actually told me not to stretch past 14 weeks, preferably 12 weeks. Stay away from braids and over manipulation of the hair.
Val, I couldn’t agree more! I’m done lol Definitely learned my lesson and I won’t be stretching my relaxers far out either. Thanks for the love and for watching💕
When I tell you Affirm ruined my hair and regretted switching from ORS I had to Olaplex my hair for 2 months and cut my hair .. it’s safe to say I will stick to my true blue
It sounds like Affirm and ORS doesn't work for what you want for your hair. You shouldn't have to do all that "tweaking". I think you need to find a new system.
So.....As a professional cosmetologist your hair is under processed on the ends.and when you switch to the more professional relaxer your going to get straighter results on the top/roots... And what strength treatments are you doing? Are you alternating with moisture? Bond builders, K18 or Olaplex? Or both....Over processed? For your liking? It looks just to be proper relaxed ...Over process hair will break...You would/ have in the past use a milder relaxer unprofessional one to Texlax your fine hair. A PROFESSIONAL cosmetologist would be able to apply the relaxer and know when it's relaxed enough and ready to be removed....You Now have a lot going on...Relaxed roots ,Texlaxed ends,broken off inside, and between....So....regroup. find a stylist that you can trust. to apply your relaxer Correctly. Because if you continue to go back and forth with under process/ relaxed...Your not going to have the hair you desire. There are still some Really good Cosmetologists out there,you just have to do your research and find them.This is just a recommendation/ Advice from someone who cares.❤
I keep hearing that dipping one’s braids into hot water to smooth the ends causes damage to one’s real hair. No disrespect, but I find this hard to believe. For one, water boils at only 212 degrees Fahrenheit. Many of us who straighten our Afro-textured hair use flat irons at twice that temperature. Besides, by the time our braids are dipped, the water is significantly cooler than that. Secondly, most of us who wear braids get them at several times the length of our natural hair. Even extremely long natural hair usually doesn’t come close to the length of the added hair we use. Seldom, if ever, does our own hair come into contact with the hot water used for dipping. I think whatever damage we may incur as a result of wearing braids with added hair has other causes besides hot water.
I truly believe it’s a combination of a few things including the tension from installing the braids plus the fake hair drying out the ends of moisture and the hot water used for dipping. The stylist went a good distance higher on the length of the braids so my hair was definitely in contact with the boiling water not to mention it was constantly in chlorine/salt water so that was a factor too, unfortunately. Mind you, I moisturized daily. I just learned my lesson the hard way - never again! lol
My hair got over processed as well from my old stylist as you said I didn’t see it right away went to a stylist for help lost about 1/2 my hair now I’m wondering if I should go back natural I feel so overwhelmed and I’m not sure where to go from here lost 2 years of progress it’s just a lot
Had the set back of a lifetime last year, found out three relaxers before were over processed and I was focusing on bond repair I think I reversed some of my four years of hard work I think it actually reversed the relaxer a little, which sounds crazy but I was watching it happen in real time. I need to get back on my castor oil ,my hair is not as thick anymore and I just wanna kick myself.I threw some braids in and I'm leaving it alone RN I'm not ready to deal with this.
I’m telling you hair never bounced back from Covid. The texture is not the same. By 10 wks my new growth would be full and thick and now I have to stretch to 12-14wks before I feel I have enough growth to relax
Your hair looks great! I wonder if maybe you should switch to a lower strength. Instead of using Regular maybe use their Mild? Wishing you all the best! I appreciate your vulnerability 🙌🏿
…And your hair is coarse. So Imagine what affirm was like for those of us with fine hair? I loved the results of Affirm, my hair felt healthier, shinier, took products better, but the front of my hair that is fine, definitely got over processed and broke off setting me back. I loved being relaxed but trying to self relax was too hard for me. I had to let it go altogether.
I don’t like having my hair relaxed bone straight either. I used to have different textures and was ok with that but my stylist wasn’t. One day while at the bowl sitting with conditioner in, I was smelling a strong relaxer smell (not relaxer day). Long story short, I feel like she added relaxer to the conditioner in an attempt to have my hair one texture. But I have no evidence visually but my hair definitely has one sad straight texture 😢
Maybe you should switch to the Affirm Fiberguard, even if you smooth like you normally would it still gives the hair more texture then the others systems do.
I have a question. Have you ever considered Magic Sleek? I am asking because I was self relaxing for years and it started not working out for me anymore. I did research and decided on Magic Sleek and had it done twice already in the past six months. I wanted my hair straight and that’s what my stylist did. The product says it’s adjustable as far as texture. Aside from dealing with new growth, which is inevitable whichever relaxing method is used, my hair is pretty healthy so far. My natural hair is curly and frizzy. This keeps my hair very straight and no frizz for about 4 months and I could probably go longer. Do you have thoughts on this product or know anyone who has used it?
@ashleynicole9423 I liked aphogee as well until I saw that video where Val pointed out it has formaldehyde in it.. unfortunately about 80% of their products have it
I use the ORS relaxer, and I notice the last few relaxers my hair was under processed, so this time I left it in a bit longer and was scared I over did it. Maybe our hair is becoming resistant to relaxers due to getting them for so long 🧐
In the same boat! 😢 Absolutely down for a challenge! Maybe even the castor oil one ? With a twist ? Idk. But im here for the ride! 🙏🏽 Also, I've been using the Yuka app & im so stressed because im throwing shit out that i swore by! Like Aussie! 😭😅
Honestly it’s just hair… saying you want to 😵 yourself because of your hair mistake is over the top. The true meaning and value of life is so much bigger than hair…
Hey Loves💕Happy Friday!! Missed y'all. Your girl has gone through it lol. How's your hair been doing? LMK
I looove to see you back.
@@amyandfamily664 Hey girlie!!🥰
@HairliciousInc heeey
You’ve been missed ❤am starting all over again
We have missed you, too! My hair has been ok. My stylist trimmed a little more of my ends than I wanted her to, so I plan to trim my own ends and work out a schedule. I also plan to go back to washing my hair weekly again, at least temporarily. I noticed faster hair growth that way.
Because you’re EXTREMELY in tune with your hair, I have zero doubt that you’ll bounce back! I do hope that while in this journey (going back to what worked in the past) you post what you’re doing. I’ve mirrored your routine to the T (except self relaxing), and everything works for me. I would love to mimic what you’ll be doing going forward!
Am on a low side too dear, A hairstylist cut off my hair 🤦🏻♀️and l have even posted it on my channel,we are growing it back healthy and longer ❤thanks for the update
@0tismadline I felt so bad watching your video 😢 that stylist cut off about 8 - 10 inches of your hair.
What is your channel name?
I am ready for your challenge for healthy long hair also. Keep us posted.
Girl, I watched that video, and my mouth dropped. I couldn't believe how much she cut off. I hate that you had such a bad experience. You'll be back to longer hair in no time. 💜
I realize that as I got older my hair & texture changed. I use to be able to smooth more, let it sit for a few mins. Now I rinse out as soon as I’m finished relaxing because it processes quick & it will get bone straight & lifeless
The relaxer changed it. Long run it will always ruin the hair
Yes!! We need to discuss aging hair. That can definitely be a contributing factor in how our hair responds to color, relaxers etc. Thanks for sharing hun and for watching💕
I was checking checking for new videos from you. Thank you for your honesty. Hair setbacks can be traumatizing
My 2025 goal, is to get on this challenge with you...the older I get i noticed change in my hair as well.
The thickness is not the same and I swear one side actually feels thicker than the other, so either way I am down for this challenge... please keep us posted, especially us that want to do it ❤❤
Yes you’re not the only one that’s struggling with hair issues right now . I’m really distraught over my hair . I’m honestly really close to cutting it down to @ 3-4 inches long …. Sad but true🧐🤨 I wished mine looked as good as yours. Thanks for the transparency Luv’ Blessings❤
Welcome back Val! I am sorry to hear of your recent relaxer challenges. I have also been struggling with finding the perfect routine that gives me the results I am looking for. I had to part ways with Affirm Lye for different reasons affecting my scalp. The struggle is real with finding the right relaxer system and routine. Thankfully, you know your hair well and know exactly what to do to get your hair back to the way you like it
Hey Val, so happy to get an update… honestly I’m in the same boat.. somewhere I went wrong couldn’t figure out where.. switched to AFFIRM system towards the end of 2023.. and I truly believe I’ve definitely over processed my hair.. I’m in this RESET journey with you!! Ive been able to stop breakage but it’s thin on the ends. I felt defeated until this video.. I’m doing a wash and trim tomorrow.. THANK YOU SO MUCH!! 🙏🏽♥️💇🏽♀️
The way I got so happy to see a new video! 🙌🏾. But I'm sorry to hear about the problems you've been experiencing. At first, I was like, what's wrong with having bone straight hair, it's gonna gradually thicken back up, but then you explained about it being more prone to breakage, and I understand. Just keep it moisturized everyday, like you mentioned. That's what I've been doing lately...moisturizing every night before I wrap it, and I hardly notice any shedding..just normal amounts once I go to comb through it. Thanks for the update, and I'm confident that you'll be fine ❤.
Welcome back we missed you Val. My hair has been going through some things too, I’m getting it back on track. I may need to do a big chop. I find doing the neutralizing conditioner before using the normalizing shampoo after the relaxer is less drying on my hair and it’s softer.
So excited to have you back girl. I would definitely love a hair challenge❤
Hi Val. I am ready, able and willing to partake of a healthy hair challenge with you and your followers. For many years I did not have a "routine". I tried your routine and immediately noticed a difference. It was the aphogee 2 min. leave in mixed with coconut oil pre poo and the keracare humectant with what I call "AOC"......avocado, olive and coconut oils as a deep conditioner. Some how I strayed due to fear of protein overload. It is a delicate balance. I have to put this back in my routine, if not every week maybe every other. But my hair is thriving because of you and your routines. Thank you. By the way, you hair may be shorter, but it is still full and healthy looking.
Hi Val, I noticed your hair was more straight from the video you posted when you went on the group trip to Barbados but I attributed it to the styling. I pray you are able to resolve these hair problems. It’s funny how issues with our hair gets us emotional. You can do it and please dont forget to update us 😘
I noticed as I get older my hair is finer and straighter!
It also may have something to do with the ingredients being updated to cater to health concerns!
omg I LOVE the affirm relaxer system. I've been using it for about 20 years and I wouldn't even change it.. so sorry you are having problems with it.
I love it too but something is off, sis! I'm going to get down to the bottom of it though😙
There was another TH-camr who used the Affirm System and unintentionally her hair would be under processed. I‘ve always been put off by her experience.
I'm so so happy to see your return! Unfortunately, we're both experiencing a similar issue. I'm also trimming my ends to help combat this frustrating matter. Our hair is very similar, but yours is a bit more thicker. It's disheartening when setbacks like this occur but with time, patience, and more knowledge we'll bounce back. At least you'll have great content and company for a journey you'd rather not have to take. Good luck to you, myself, and anyone else taking this trip! 🛫 ✌🏽💕
Thankyou for sharing girl but the hair is looking health ❤❤❤.
Idk why, in this day, some people don't watch how far they're dunking your hair in boiling hot water. I had the same issues with being underprocessed, and I was over it, so I went back to the salon, and it's made a huge difference. I was just tired of doing my own relaxers, especially because I only get 2-3 relaxers a year, so I don't mind paying for it. You'll get back to where you wanna be cause if anything you have the knowledge and that's what matters. Yes, for the challenge. 💜
Sis! It was a travesty lol. The hot water did play a role in the damage of my ends along with the tension, chlorine, salt water etc. Ugh! Lesson learned. I hear you on going to the salon for touch ups, especially if it’s not so often, it makes sense. I would love to find a stylist who cares for my hair as much as I do but I haven’t been so fortunate lol. So glad you’re down for the challenge. I’ll work out the details💕
When I wore a relaxer I have to admit that I didn’t care for my hair the way it needed to be cared for. My hair is natural and I’m taking better care of it by giving my hair what it needs.
Thank you for making your posts because since I started listening to you my hair is definitely stronger. Low breakage and thicker. Thanks 🙏 👍
Hi Val,
Your hair looks good, and nice length, Still. And that's it right there. Healthy scalp and hair are key. That's where I am. When I made a video maybe a few weeks back.That's all what mattered using things that work sticking to a healthy hair care regiment.. And not worrying about length at all like you see some they'radjust focusing on length, Just keep doing you so much for sharing.Have a wonderful weekend.God bless you❤❤❤❤
Your hair looks great and the length is amazing!! 😀🤷🏾♀️
Hey lady! Your hair is lovely! I just went back to natural in September. I stretched for 8 months, then did a big chop. I'm planning to grow my hair out to it's full potential! Right now I'm working with a six inch afro!
I plan to continue with my tried and true regime established in 2006. I'll never stray from it;
Wash and deep condition twice a week (Monday and Thursday).
Sleep in 4 detangled, moisturized puffs that i make sure to baggy every night.
Trim 4 times a year (January, April, July and October!
Take my supplements
By summer 2026 my hair should be back where I started, then ill focus on continuing to grow it out. At 43 my hair refuses to stay full in it's relaxed state. In my 20's it was a whole different ball game! My natural hair is THICK so at this point I'm rolling with it!
Thank u so much fr sharing, and being so transparent...it really blessed me to focus on health, the length will come, with a healthy regiment...ty ty ty...❤❤❤
Hey Val, Happy New Year... missed you
Yes let’s reset. I’m all in for a challenge. Maybe until summer. I’m striving for tailbone length and healthy.
I decided to get braids for my birthday and it's official that my hair hates synthetics. I thought I was safe because it was large knotless and it was minimal stress. I went in washed, deep conditioned and blow dried. I know my hair is thick, but I should have known it was downhill when she blow dried again for a minute or two. I was 3 weeks post relaxer so there was no need imo. I only had it in for 2 weeks and my shedding was crazy. I have learned to just listen to my hair and accept these styles are not for me. Thank God the damage is unnoticeable. It was a setback, but I am back on track after four weeks of recovery.
I’m a Mizani user now. Years ago a stylist was using Affirm on me. It would straighten my hair beautifully, but over time, I started getting severe breakage and had to do a huge cut.😢 Come to find out, the relaxer was just too strong for my hair. It’s grown back now, and I’m focused on moisture and length retention.
Tones on TH-cam videos are out there to help.
I’m sad that you are on a low point, even though your hair looks great. I’m in the low boat as well sis, with bad scalp and dry hair. I have only used affirm, the dry and itchy scalp, no relaxer issues though. I hope we both get our desired results this year. Great to see you back.
I’m so glad to see you posted!! I was so excited! I know this journey has its ups and downs but you’re built for this!! I would love a hair reset challenge. I planned on going back to relaxed hair and working on my hair health as well as retention 🙌🏾 I feel as though the natural hair taught me how to build a regimen and now I know what I’ll need to implement and how to take care of it better this time around
Hey Val, I was so happy to see you pop up on TH-cam. Question, you said that you’re gonna go to deep conditioning twice a week so does that mean you’ll be washing your hair twice a week? Also can you do an updated video on how you use the S- curl spray?
I LOVE love your hair videos
Your hair looks great💝
My hair is definitely over-processed. I started dyeing my hair and it really changed my hair texture. I like the idea of a mid week deep conditioning. I’m going to start that. 🧡 #healthyhair
I will always keep following you thanks for your advice
Yes 2 a challenge ❤️
12:37 Lol Lusters definitely stood the test of time with their scurl products. Their texturizer is really good too.
I missed it dearly!! lol True OG product.
I'm in the middle of a 6 month stretch because my right side was over processed because I would start relaxing on that side because it was always under processed. It would shed or break no matter what treatment I did for it to stop. I aggressively trimmed and the Silk Elements Cholesterol 2/3 times a week brought back my elasticity and now my right side is just as healthy as the left. Just waiting on my Sally's order with my Motions relaxer, trying to decide if I'm going relax now or wait until June. Definitely down for a challenge.
OMGGG Happy New Year Hairlicious!!
Hey Val, have you ever thought about leaving the relaxers alone and just become a straight hair natural? Either or U HAVE THIS❤
That's the decision I just made today..I am older..my hair is fine and thin😕 transitioning back to natural using ingredients that were frowned upon..sulfates silicones and protein formulated in my deep conditioners and leave in..rollerset weekly and keep it moving..not a wig sew in braid twist out bantu knots type of sister😂
This is literally meeeee! I'm 43 and my hair will NOT stay thick after I grow past 16 inches. This has been going on for 7 years! I finally said forget it last January and haven't relaxed since. I did my big chop in September 2024 and growing my hair out natural henceforth. The density of my natural texture is unmatched. Thickness over length at this point. I want to grow it to full potential while being ok with the shrinkage that comes with natural hair ❤
Enjoyed the update.
August 2924, reset, with a Big Chop 😮
Wearing conrows & braids for 1-year 😊
I use affirm as well. I would get concerned when the neutralizer shampoo was white. It never color changed as I washed the relaxer out. So I used another neutralizer shampoo and it turned out the initial shampoo wasn’t washing out all of the relaxer. So I used another neutralizer a different neutralizer shampoo to wash out all of the relaxer then Wash once with the affirm neutralizer shampoo then use the step 3 for treatment
Oh noooo now I'm scared 😱 I just bought Affirm dry & itchy normalizing shampoo but I'm gonna have my Motions neutralizing shampoo on stand-by just in case 😅
Just when I was contemplating cutting in my relaxed hair off and go back natural, I see there’s a video. This might be my confirmation.
Would love a challenge! Braids just did me dirty. I need a reset.
Hi Val thanks so much for sharing. You are the best and I am down for any challenge. I too had to reset. My goal for 2025 is healthy strong hair. As always thanks for your truthfulness 🥰🙂
Thanks hun🫶🏾 Your goal is the same as mine!! Healthier hair is definitely the focus.
Yay!! Glad to have you down for the challenge. I think it would be great to have all of us motivate, encourage and support each other💕
I’m currently dealing with hair thinning due to low iron, massive breakage and shedding. Basically starting over.
Few months ago I felt with the same thing, braids being dipped on extremely hot hair.
I have the opposite problem, my stylist has been under-processing for a bit. I also have had a lot of split ends and gaps in my hair. So I am holding off on my relaxer for a while while I focus on repairing as many of the bonds as possible. Also incorporating monthly protein treatments and light protein in-between. Set backs are so darn annoying and really disappointing.
Hi Val, I have had a hair set back as well. I cut off 2 inches and I am starting my journey over. Are you considering going back to ORS relaxer? It seemed to work well for you❤
Im down for an old school challenge!!
I love when you upload! A challenge would be interesting to see
Yeah.. my hair used to love Affirm. For years. I was like maybe I got a bad batch? No, I think it was a combination of the relaxer and my perimenopausal hair. I’ve let the gray come thru for the last two years and the gray is its own texture by itself 😩. I cut it to a micro pixie to start over and went back to Vitale, for now. So far, it’s ok but the gray is still graying😩🤷🏾♀️.
Anywho, you’ve got this and your hair still looks beautiful!👏🏾
Love your vids! Yes let’s do a reset I need it too.
Hi Val, have you ever tried the Affirm 5 in 1 Reconstructor? I've always wondered which is better during the neutralizing process.
After YEARS of trial & error I’m finally at shoulder length. But I’m still experimenting with my current routine
Hair looks great, but I had to yield my relaxers to my salon. She actually told me not to stretch past 14 weeks, preferably 12 weeks. Stay away from braids and over manipulation of the hair.
Me too girl. Self-relaxing was not for me! Kudos to Val
Val, I couldn’t agree more! I’m done lol Definitely learned my lesson and I won’t be stretching my relaxers far out either. Thanks for the love and for watching💕
Haha! I hear you, Fit. It’s definitely a skill to master but I love it 😍
When I tell you Affirm ruined my hair and regretted switching from ORS I had to Olaplex my hair for 2 months and cut my hair .. it’s safe to say I will stick to my true blue
Finally a video!!
It sounds like Affirm and ORS doesn't work for what you want for your hair. You shouldn't have to do all that "tweaking".
I think you need to find a new system.
My experience with straight backs were the same 😢 I’m natural and had to cut my hair after! It grew back but I will never do cornrows like that again
Healthy hair care reset, yes!!
Thank you for sharing. Have you considered bonding treatments or k18?
Hair looks Great ! Maybe a black tea rinse may be needed!
Have you ever heard a straight request? My stylist has been doing my hair for years uses that relaxer look into it.
My stylist also uses Straight Request - happy with the results so far!!
I love my results. Hopefully she will take this advice and see if it works for her.
So.....As a professional cosmetologist your hair is under processed on the ends.and when you switch to the more professional relaxer your going to get straighter results on the top/roots... And what strength treatments are you doing? Are you alternating with moisture? Bond builders, K18 or Olaplex? Or both....Over processed? For your liking? It looks just to be proper relaxed ...Over process hair will break...You would/ have in the past use a milder relaxer unprofessional one to Texlax your fine hair. A PROFESSIONAL cosmetologist would be able to apply the relaxer and know when it's relaxed enough and ready to be removed....You Now have a lot going on...Relaxed roots ,Texlaxed ends,broken off inside, and between....So....regroup. find a stylist that you can trust. to apply your relaxer Correctly. Because if you continue to go back and forth with under process/ relaxed...Your not going to have the hair you desire. There are still some Really good Cosmetologists out there,you just have to do your research and find them.This is just a recommendation/ Advice from someone who cares.❤
I keep hearing that dipping one’s braids into hot water to smooth the ends causes damage to one’s real hair. No disrespect, but I find this hard to believe.
For one, water boils at only 212 degrees Fahrenheit. Many of us who straighten our Afro-textured hair use flat irons at twice that temperature. Besides, by the time our braids are dipped, the water is significantly cooler than that.
Secondly, most of us who wear braids get them at several times the length of our natural hair. Even extremely long natural hair usually doesn’t come close to the length of the added hair we use. Seldom, if ever, does our own hair come into contact with the hot water used for dipping.
I think whatever damage we may incur as a result of wearing braids with added hair has other causes besides hot water.
I truly believe it’s a combination of a few things including the tension from installing the braids plus the fake hair drying out the ends of moisture and the hot water used for dipping. The stylist went a good distance higher on the length of the braids so my hair was definitely in contact with the boiling water not to mention it was constantly in chlorine/salt water so that was a factor too, unfortunately. Mind you, I moisturized daily. I just learned my lesson the hard way - never again! lol
Yes I’m definitely down to do a hair challenge !
Oh, please share skin care and daily diet.
My hair got over processed as well from my old stylist as you said I didn’t see it right away went to a stylist for help lost about 1/2 my hair now I’m wondering if I should go back natural I feel so overwhelmed and I’m not sure where to go from here lost 2 years of progress it’s just a lot
Had the set back of a lifetime last year, found out three relaxers before were over processed and I was focusing on bond repair I think I reversed some of my four years of hard work I think it actually reversed the relaxer a little, which sounds crazy but I was watching it happen in real time. I need to get back on my castor oil ,my hair is not as thick anymore and I just wanna kick myself.I threw some braids in and I'm leaving it alone RN I'm not ready to deal with this.
Healthy hair care challenge! Let’s do it!
I clicked so damn fast... lol
I’m telling you hair never bounced back from Covid. The texture is not the same. By 10 wks my new growth would be full and thick and now I have to stretch to 12-14wks before I feel I have enough growth to relax
Your hair looks great! I wonder if maybe you should switch to a lower strength. Instead of using Regular maybe use their Mild? Wishing you all the best! I appreciate your vulnerability 🙌🏿
Yes, i was thinking that too, and maybe the hair steamer is making her hair straight.
Thanks so much, sis. It appears that way but it feels so different. I can't quite explain it.
Down for the challenge. I have fine hair though.
…And your hair is coarse. So Imagine what affirm was like for those of us with fine hair? I loved the results of Affirm, my hair felt healthier, shinier, took products better, but the front of my hair that is fine, definitely got over processed and broke off setting me back. I loved being relaxed but trying to self relax was too hard for me. I had to let it go altogether.
I don’t like having my hair relaxed bone straight either. I used to have different textures and was ok with that but my stylist wasn’t. One day while at the bowl sitting with conditioner in, I was smelling a strong relaxer smell (not relaxer day). Long story short, I feel like she added relaxer to the conditioner in an attempt to have my hair one texture. But I have no evidence visually but my hair definitely has one sad straight texture 😢
Maybe you should switch to the Affirm Fiberguard, even if you smooth like you normally would it still gives the hair more texture then the others systems do.
Your hair is beautiful
When you deep condition twice a week do you wash as well or just deep condition?
Oh gosh, i just bought a big tub of Affrim fiber guard mild 😢
My experience my be different from yours. Please don't let this discourage you!
Thank you for sharing
I have a question. Have you ever considered Magic Sleek? I am asking because I was self relaxing for years and it started not working out for me anymore. I did research and decided on Magic Sleek and had it done twice already in the past six months. I wanted my hair straight and that’s what my stylist did. The product says it’s adjustable as far as texture. Aside from dealing with new growth, which is inevitable whichever relaxing method is used, my hair is pretty healthy so far. My natural hair is curly and frizzy. This keeps my hair very straight and no frizz for about 4 months and I could probably go longer. Do you have thoughts on this product or know anyone who has used it?
Maybe they reformulated the relaxer. Maybe it wasn’t anything you did. Just a thought.
Long run relaxer will always ruin the hair. That how body react to something not natural for it function
The same thing has happened to me. I would love a challenge.
Are you in peri menopause? That has an impact on hair!
In my opinion, you should go back to ORS that works well for you, in any case you have my support😊
You ever thought about cutting your hair into a long bob?
❤❤❤
I’m up for a challenge ❤
Heat can do that too.
First one here!!! ❤
Break out the bond repairing products!!! 😊
K18 seems to work wonders. I prefer aphogee 2 step but K18 is really good for daily use.
The redken acidic bonding concentrate stopped my breakage in it’s tracks! I prefer it to the K18
@ashleynicole9423 I liked aphogee as well until I saw that video where Val pointed out it has formaldehyde in it.. unfortunately about 80% of their products have it
I use the ORS relaxer, and I notice the last few relaxers my hair was under processed, so this time I left it in a bit longer and was scared I over did it. Maybe our hair is becoming resistant to relaxers due to getting them for so long 🧐
Girl do the things you are used too😊
Hey Val. First here.
where you from your accent?
She's Canadian
It’s the relaxer 😢😢
Yeah babe! somethings off😕
In the same boat! 😢 Absolutely down for a challenge! Maybe even the castor oil one ? With a twist ? Idk. But im here for the ride! 🙏🏽
Also, I've been using the Yuka app & im so stressed because im throwing shit out that i swore by! Like Aussie! 😭😅
Honestly it’s just hair… saying you want to 😵 yourself because of your hair mistake is over the top. The true meaning and value of life is so much bigger than hair…