| How to Loosen Tight Braids Posted: 16 Oct 2017 05:00 PM PDT If you've ever experienced the pain of too-tight braids, you've likely wondered how to loosen them without ruining your hairstyle. Not to worry, there are several methods you can try! You can use water to loosen your braids, like by wrapping your hair in a hot, damp towel. You can also loosen tight braids by massaging your scalp with oil, applying leave-in conditioner to your roots, or applying a braid spray. Try several methods to see which gives you the most relief while keeping your style intact. EditTaking Immediate Action - Take a cold shower to provide instant relief. Cold water will provide instant relief from pain due to tight braids. If your braids are really bothering you, hop in the shower and turn the faucet to cool or cold. Let the spray soak your scalp and you'll start to feel better immediately. Gently pat your braids with a dry towel when you get out of the shower to remove excess water from them.[1]
- Use a pencil eraser to decrease tension at the scalp. Slip the eraser end of a pencil underneath cornrows or tight braids to get some relief. You could also use the blunt end of a skewer or the thin end of a long-handled fine-tooth comb. Gently wiggle the eraser, skewer, or handle to loosen the braid at the scalp. Be careful and take your time so as not to ruin your braids.[2]
- Wrap a hot, damp towel around your head. Applying moist heat directly to your braids will increase their elasticity, which can provide relief. First, wet a towel with hot water. Wring out the excess moisture, then wrap the towel around your head. Leave the towel on for up to an hour before removing it.[3]
- Use a hair steamer to loosen your braids. You can pick up a hair steamer at your local beauty shop, or visit the salon and use theirs. Set up the hair steamer, then sit under it. Direct the steam at your braids and at the places you are feeling the most tension or pain. Sit under the hair steamer in 10-minute sessions, with breaks in between, until your braids feel better.[4]
- You can apply a deep-conditioner to your scalp before sitting under the steamer to increase the relief.
EditUsing Products - Massage your scalp with oil each day. While you have braids in, it's important to do daily oil scalp massages. Use 1 tbsp (14.8 mL) of a pure, natural oil such as avocado, castor, coconut, jojoba, or almond oil. Apply the oil to your scalp, then massage it in with your fingers using gentle, circular motions for 1 to 2 minutes each day.[5]
- You can also add a few drops of essential oil to the oil you choose to scent and refresh your scalp.
- Peppermint essential oil can really help with scalp itchiness, so consider using that for your daily scalp massages.
- Apply a leave-in conditioner. Adding a leave-in conditioner to your dry braids can reduce their tension and tightness. Put 1 or 2 small drops of leave-in conditioner on the spot where each braid meets the scalp. Use your fingers to gently work the conditioner into your scalp and braids.[6]
- Try a braid spray. If you often get your hair braided, invest in a braid spray, such as Vernon Francois Scalp Nourishing Braids & Locs Spray or Oyin Juices & Berries Herbal Tonic. Spritz the braid spray on your scalp to prevent itching and lubricate your braids, which will loosen them and relieve pain.[7]
- You can use this when getting ready in the morning as well as throughout the day to reduce tension on your scalp caused by tight braids.
EditTrying Alternative Solutions - Wear your hair down. Putting your braids up on top of your head can increase their tightness, and therefore your pain. After you've had your hair braided, wear it down for a couple days to avoid added tension on your scalp. Let your braids hang loose or tie them back into a low ponytail if you want them out of your face.[8]
- Take a warm shower to increase your hair's elasticity. Warm water will open up your hair shafts, making your braids looser and more elastic. If you want to loosen your braids, take a warm shower and allow the water to run over your scalp and through your braids. After getting out of the shower, use a towel to remove excess water from your hair by gently patting your braids.[9]
- Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water each day to ensure your scalp and hair are properly hydrated, which can lessen the effects of tight braids.[10] Men should drink 13 cups (3.1 liters) while women should drink 9 cups (2.1 liters) of water per day.[11] Keep a water bottle on hand at all times so that you can stay hydrated and keep your braids feeling great.
- Remove the braids if they keep hurting. Though you may have spent a hefty chunk of change getting your hair braided, if they are way too tight and are causing you pain, the best solution is to remove them. You can take them out yourself or go back to the hair salon and ask your stylist to take them out. Let your stylist know that they are too tight and are causing you pain.[12]
- Don't be afraid to tell your stylist that your braids are too tight! As a paying customer, you should be comfortable with your style, so speak up as soon as you notice the braids are too tight.[13]
- Running water through your braids may cause you to need to get them redone sooner.[14]
- Braids that are too tight can cause a certain kind of hair loss called traction alopecia. Talk to your stylist if you have concerns about this issue.[15]
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| How to Make Waterproof Matches Posted: 16 Oct 2017 09:00 AM PDT Waterproof matches are expensive, but you can make your own for only a fraction of the price. Listed below are a number of effective and proven ways to make waterproof matches you can use for camping, backpacking, and emergencies. Note: All the methods below involve some risk. If you are a minor, do not carry out any of these activities, without the permission of a competent adult supervisor. The list is ranked from safest to least safe. The best and safest method is to use Turpentine. (Turpentine has a higher "flash point" relative to Acetone, which is commonly used in nail polish and does not involve the use of flame as is needed in the Wax or Paraffin methods.) EditUse Turpentine - Pour 2 to 3 large tablespoons of Turpentine into a small (Tumbler sized) glass.
- Place the matches, (Head down) into the Turpentine and allow the matches to soak for 5 minutes. During that time the turpentine will soak into the head as well as the stem. All the water will be driven off by the turpentine.
- Remove the matches and spread them out to dry out on a sheet of newspaper. Generally, 20 minutes for excess turpentine to be evaporated is recommended. Matches treated in this way remain waterproof for several months or longer.
EditUse Nail Polish - Dip the head end of the match into clear nail polish far enough to cover at least an eighth of an inch (3 millimeters) of the stick below the head.
- Hold the match for a few seconds to allow the polish to dry and then place the match on a table or counter so that the head is suspended off the edge of the surface.
- Place a sheet of newsprint below to catch anything that may drip off.
EditUse a Candle - Light a candle and let it burn down until you have a good amount of liquid wax (about a half of an inch or 1 centimeter).
- Extinguish the candle.
- Dip the head end of the match into the wax far enough to cover at least an eighth of an inch (3 millimeters) of the stick below the head.
- Hold the match for a few seconds to allow the wax to harden slightly and then place the match on a table or counter so that the head is suspended off the edge of the surface.
- When the wax has cooled, but not completely hardened, pinch the end of the wax coating (towards the stick), forming a tight seal.
EditUsing Paraffin Wax - Melt enough paraffin wax in a double boiler to be able to coat with wax about a half of an inch (1 centimeter) deep.
- Wrap some twine or jute string around several matches from the bottom, to just below the wax quickly. This makes a torch that can burn for 10 or more minutes.
- Turpentine has a relatively high "flash point" in comparison to Nail polish, therefore it is the safest to use. Mineral Turpentine, Pine, or Citrus turpentine all have the same waterproofing capacity.
- The matches may also be completely covered with the wax to make sure water can't migrate up the matchstick.
- The Nail Polish method is more volatile than Turpentine, but is better than wax that can more easily break or be scratched.
- When using either of the wax methods, work as quickly as you can while still being safe so the wax doesn't harden.
- Do not drink from the glass that you used to soak the matches.
- If you don't use strike-anywhere matches, be sure to store a striking surface with your matches.
- If you do not have a double boiler, you can melt the paraffin wax using a metal bowl over a pot of boiling water. You can also melt the wax in a pan on low heat, but this increases the chance of causing a fire.
- Do not use a plastic cup to sit turpentine in, as it may be melted by the chemical itself.
- Even though the matches will be waterproof, it is a good idea to store your finished matches & striker patch in a waterproof container, such as a small 35 mm film container, or any other sealable & waterproof canister.
- Turpentine effectively displaces all hygroscopically absorbed moisture content. So any wood stemmed matches (regardless of age) can be used.
- This should be done soon after buying the matches so that the matches don't pick up too much moisture from the air.
- The candle method works best with wood stemmed matches. Do NOT USE with Plastic or Waxed stems.
- Decant the remainder of the unused Turpentine back into the original container.
- Make sure to transfer unused turpentine into recyclable plastic water bottles for safe storage, it is best to transfer outside in case of spills.
- Turpentine is poisonous if swallowed. or inhaled intensely over a period of time.
- Always use caution when working with fire.
- Paraffin wax is incredibly hard to remove from a pan. Use an old pan/double boiler or purchase one second-hand for this purpose. Alternately, use an old coffee can or #10 tin can set in a pot of water. Paraffin Wax is also highly reactive in the presence of introduced water droplets.
- Wax in its liquid state is very hot and may cause severe burns. It may also catch fire.
- Nail polish (and wax) can stain fabric and surfaces, so it is a good idea to cover your work surface in newspaper. Nail Polish is also highly flammable. Nail Polish is also a known carcinogenic substance.
EditThings You'll Need - Sturdy wooden matches (preferably the strike-anywhere sort)
- Candles, Paraffin Wax, Nail Polish or Turpentine.
- A saucepan or double boiler
- Tongs or fork to dip matches into wax
- Newspaper or other table covering
- Small glass tumbler.
- Fire extinguisher or fire rug.
- Life insurance.
EditRelated wikiHows
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| How to Dress for an Art Opening Posted: 16 Oct 2017 01:00 AM PDT Figuring out what to wear to an art opening can be confusing. Do you wear all black? Do you need to make a fashion statement? The truth is you have a lot of flexibility when picking out an outfit for an art opening, as long as you meet the dress code and look presentable. You can experiment with bold colors and patterns, or stick with a simple two-tone ensemble. Whatever you choose to wear to an art opening, you want to make sure you feel confident and comfortable in your outfit. EditFinding the Perfect Outfit - Find out if there's a dress code. Look on the invitation you got or ask someone else who's going. Some art openings will actually have a dress code they want guests to follow. Choosing an outfit will be a lot easier if you know how dressed up everyone else is getting.
- If the dress code is "casual dressy," pair slacks, dress pants, or a skirt with a blouse or button-up. You can snazz-up your outfit with a blazer or tie.[1]
- For events that call for "cocktail attire," short dresses and fitted suits are the norm.[2]
- Ask other invited guests for tips if you're not sure what to wear. If there's no dress code, or you're confused by the dress code, don't be afraid to ask for some help. Ask one of your friends that's going what they plan on wearing. If you know the artist hosting the opening personally, reach out and ask them what to wear.[3]
- If you're still unsure, look up the venue where the opening will be at. A smaller, more intimate venue like a coffee house will most likely be casual. If the venue is an upscale gallery in a nicer part of town, you're probably expected to dress up more.
- Wear something with a bold print. It could be a dress, button-up shirt, blouse, or a pair of pants. If you go with a print, make the rest of your outfit simple. The printed garment should stand out from your outfit, not get lost in a sea of other patterns.
- For example, you could wear a bright floral dress with a neutral-toned blazer or jacket.
- If you're wearing a suit, go with a button-up shirt with a bold print to add a personal touch to your outfit.
- Go with a monochromatic look. Have all the pieces of your outfit be the same color. You'll look chic and like you don't want to steal the spotlight from the featured artist.
- You could wear navy high-waisted pants with a matching navy top.
- A black turtleneck sweater tucked into black pants would be a simple yet sophisticated outfit. Pull the look together with black shoes.
- Try out a statement piece from your wardrobe. Use the art opening as an opportunity to showcase some clothes you don't get to wear a lot. Art openings are fun and about personal expression. Don't be afraid to experiment with something different.
- For example, you could wear a faux-fur jacket over a simple black dress.
- Experiment with your shoes too. Wear knee-high boots or a pair of platform shoes.
- Go with a velvet suit jacket to make your outfit stand out.
- Choose an outfit that reflects your personal style. Stick with what you like and feel comfortable in, but don't be afraid to experiment. Don't feel pressured to dress a certain way because you're going to an art opening.[4]
- Keep in mind you'll be walking around a lot at the event. Wear something you feel comfortable in. Avoid outfits that are too tight or made of itchy fabrics.[5]
EditAccessorizing Your Ensemble - Use jewelry to give your outfit flair. You can go simple with your jewelry or use the opening as an opportunity to experiment. Necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and watches all make great accessories to wear to an art opening.
- For example, if you're wearing a simple black dress, you could wear a gold statement necklace and bangle. The gold will pop against the black dress.
- A watch is a simple and elegant jewelry choice that can add extra dimension to your outfit.
- Wear a scarf. Look for a scarf that's made out of a thin fabric that won't be hot during the event. Experiment with different ways of wrapping the scarf around your neck.[6]
- For example, you could wear a scarf over a suit. The scarf will dress-down the suit so you look more casual.
- Pair a printed circle scarf with a simple dress to make your outfit more interesting.
- Try out a new pair of glasses. You'll be looking at art the whole time, so it makes sense to wear glasses with your outfit. Even if they're not real, no one has to know! Look for a pair of glasses in a fun color or shape and wear them to accent your look.[7]
- For example, if you're wearing a green sweater, you could wear glasses with a thick green frame to tie your outfit together.
- Wear a fun hat. Go with a fedora or wide-brimmed hat that matches your outfit. Or you can wear a hat in a bold color to accent your ensemble.
EditLooking Presentable - Wear clothes that are clean and wrinkle-free. Iron your clothes before you get ready for the opening. Check them over for stains the day before the event so you can wash them if needed. You want to look presentable and well put together.
- Dress up a little, even if the event is casual. Regardless of the dress code, you should try to look somewhat dressed up. An art opening is a special event for the artist hosting it, and they'll appreciate you making an effort to look nice with your outfit.[8]
- For example, if you know the art opening is a casual event, you could still add a blazer and a pair of dressier shoes to your outfit so it's more polished.
- Avoid sporty clothes like track pants and hoodies. You might look out of place if you walk into the event with sweatpants on. Steer clear of tennis shoes, flip flops, and other athletic gear, and you're much more likely to be dressed appropriately for the event.
- It's OK to wear high-fashioned sportswear to an art opening. If you do, it should be clear that you're intentionally going for a high-fashion sports look.
- Practice good hygiene. Make sure your hair is washed and styled. Spray your clothes with a little cologne or perfume so you smell nice; one or two spritzes should be enough. Also, make sure you brush your teeth before you go. You don't want bad breath when you're talking to people at the event.
EditSources and Citations
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