If you’re anything like me, you’ve spent years trying to figure out what your natural hair wants and needs. When I was younger, my mom took care of my hair, which typically involved twist-outs, the occasional hot comb, or a day off from school to head to the salon for cornrows or braids (a rite of passage for any black girl at the time). When I hit high school, I begged her for a perm, which led to a continuous cycle of dying, frying, and chopping my extra-thick 4c hair on numerous occas...

When I began the switch to a nontoxic lifestyle in regard to my household products, skincare, and food, I knew that switching my makeup over would be a must. As I’ve been making my other transitions, I learned what ingredients to look out for in the products I use, like how I should absolutely avoid parabens, sulfates, leads, and synthetic fragrances (which are hormone disruptors and possible carcinogens). It’s important to know the specific ingredients because some brands perceive themselv...

Six years ago, my family experienced a huge scare when my then 65-year-old mom was rushed to the ER in order to receive an emergency cardioversion—aka a medical paddle used to restart her heart. The day before the trip to the emergency room, we'd been traveling, and my mom (who has since discovered she has an extreme sensitivity to sugar) had a pumpkin spice latte and an almond-filled French pastry for breakfast and then later on after dinner a small vanilla ice cream cone. As she explains, it...

Converse is gearing up for Valentine's Day with a love-themed sneaker pack featuring heart-embroidered versions of the Chuck Taylor All Star, Chuck 70 and Run Star Hike. The collection of six sneakers features holiday-appropriate detailing and arrives in traditional Valentine's Day colors including pink, red and white.The Chuck Taylor All Star is revamped in "Vintage White” and “Black," two canvas colorways embroidered at the lateral with a squiggly line that loops into a heart. "Made With L...