Travel Crush Tuesday: Ellee
Ellee is in the building - and this week she's showing us what it means to be a globe trotting Travel Crush. This native New Yorker has climbed the pyramids of Egypt, took her whole life in her hands on the swings in Bali, and she's still pumped for more challenging, new adventures. Read on for her tips on having magical experiences without breaking the bank, her favorite hack for buying cheap flights, and how she stays in villas without the hefty price tag.
Sulfates, Parabens, and Phthalates: The Harmful Ingredients Hiding in Your Hair Products
In recent years, there has been increasing concern over the presence of toxic ingredients in Black hair products. According to a study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, “the use of hair relaxers, which contain harmful chemicals such as lye and sodium hydroxide, has been linked to scalp burns, hair breakage, and permanent hair loss.” While the use of relaxers has waned considerably over the years, more natural and protective hairstyles also come with an array of products that can contain toxic ingredients. Additionally, a report by the Breast Cancer Fund found that “parabens and phthalates, two chemicals commonly found in [shampoos, conditioners, and styling] products, have been linked to breast cancer and reproductive harm.”
One of the most common toxic ingredients found in Black hair products is sulfates. These are chemicals that are added to products to create a lather, but they can be extremely drying to the hair and scalp. According to a study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science, “sulfates can penetrate the hair shaft and cause damage to the cuticle, leading to increased hair breakage and loss.”
Another class of harmful ingredient commonly found in Black hair products is parabens. These chemicals are used as preservatives, but they have been linked to breast cancer and other health issues. According to a study published in the Journal of Applied Toxicology, “parabens can mimic the hormone estrogen and disrupt the endocrine system, which can lead to hormonal imbalances and other health problems.”
Phthalates are another toxic ingredient often found in Black hair products. These chemicals are used to soften plastics and can be found in products such as hair spray and hair gel. However, they have been linked to reproductive and developmental issues and can also disrupt the endocrine system. According to a study published in the Journal of Health and Environmental Research, “phthalates can interfere with the production and function of hormones, which can lead to a range of health problems, including infertility, developmental disorders, and cancer.”
Given these concerns, it’s clear that we need to be more conscious of the products we use on our hair. One alternative is BlackTravelBox® shampoo, co-wash, and conditioners. These products are made with natural ingredients that are gentle on the hair and scalp. For example, the shampoo contains aloe vera and tea tree oil, which according to a study published in the Journal of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Research, “have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can soothe the scalp and promote hair growth.” The co-wash contains jojoba oil and honey, which according to a study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science, “have been shown to nourish and strengthen the hair.” And the conditioner contains shea butter and argan oil, which according to a study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, “have been shown to moisturize and detangle the hair.”
In addition to being free of toxic ingredients, BlackTravelBox® products are also sustainable and eco-friendly. The packaging is recyclable and made from materials such as sugarcane, and the products are cruelty-free.
In conclusion, the research into toxic ingredients in Black hair products is concerning, and it’s important that we take steps to protect ourselves and the environment. By choosing BlackTravelBox® shampoo, co-wash, and conditioners, we can ensure that we are using products that are gentle, effective, and safe for both our bodies and the planet.
Travel Crush Tuesday: Matilda
Travel Crush Tuesday: Natasha (part 2!)
Travel Crush Tuesday: Natasha
Photo Source: Natasha and Instagram
Welcome to Travel Crush Tuesday!
We're back with a quick part two of our interview with Natasha, the spicy travel solopreneur who's impeccable style and love of luxury had us shook last week. Read on for her tips making the perfect getaway easy.
What would be your idea of a perfect summer getaway? Tell us about the destination and activities.
My perfect summer getaway would consist of a private island rental in the Caribbean. I’ve recently been looking more into this offering and have been delighted to find rates to be very feasible, especially when splitting the cost with family/friends. Typically the island rentals include all meals (private chef), beverages (alcoholic & non), activities (boat rentals, water sports & more), all amongst beautiful accommodations. I can picture it now: a beautiful welcome dinner on the private beach that surrounds us, illuminated by small strings lights and candles. The next morning, we awake to find a private boat ready to take the group out sailing for the day. We stop to snorkel along the way and also come across a dope beach bar where we drink & hang with locals. Clearly I’ve imagined this perfect getaway long & hard and need to just go ahead and proceed with planning! LOL
What's a travel hack that everyone should know about but not enough people do? What are the benefits of this hack?
OMG I love this question! One of my favorite travel hacks is actually Amtrak and/or trains in general! I know this sounds random but hear me out. So many us desire worldly experiences and when we go to check the flight price, are often deterred. What if I told you it’s in your best interest to check flights from nearby cities, especially if that city is a Hub for a major airline. In doing so, you’re likely to find a better rate and even a better route (maybe nonstop), than you did searching your home airport. I have this little equation that I share with travelers: “Flexibility = Experiences”. If you have a little flexibility, take the train to that neighboring city and/or state and catch that flight Your adventures and memories will thank you later.
What's one thing that you never travel without or that makes travel instantly easier?
My one thing that I never travel without is actually not physical item and instead, an app! The XE Currency Conversion app has changed the way I travel. When I first started traveling, I refused to be told what the USD conversion was at the local shop, for fear of being cheated, so I always went straight to Google, spotty single and all. When I discovered this app several years ago, I literally rejoiced and have not stop rejoicing, from country to country. It’s the best! I highly recommend to all my travelers, no matter if you visit one place a year or one place a month! Knowing how your dollar compares and transfers is key to your overall getaway.
Where else can folks find you?
Let’s continue this conversation! I can be found on Instagram & Twitter via @TashWils. You can also find my Travel Agency on Instagram & TikTok via @TravelGoddessIntl. Feel free to DM - I'm happy to help you create an unforgettable vacation experience!
Travel Crush Tuesday: Natasha - Part 1
Getting the perfect photo: Santorini Style
Get the perfect photo in Santorini with our guide on finding the perfect dress, photographer & locations. From rentals to made-to-order flying dresses & local photographers, our tips help you capture romantic Instagram-worthy shots on the Greek Isle.
Travel Crush Tuesday: Wenny
Travel Crush Tuesday: Mahogany
Travel Crush Tuesday: Cierra
Travel Crush Tuesday: Gina
Travel Crush Tuesday: Antwanesha
This week's travel crush is here to show us how a single trip has the power to dramatically alter someone's life. Read her story of how traveling has impacted her life.
Travel Crush Tuesday: Bea
Travel Crush Tuesday: Bea
Photo Source: Bea and Instagram
Welcome to Travel Crush Tuesday!
You can count countries and continents or cities and states. You can enjoy the fascinating scenery in your backyard or amass passport stamps. When it comes to travel, there is no right or wrong approach. Meet Bea; she loves to travel both domestically and abroad and blogs about her experiences.
1. Tell us about yourself! Who are you? Where are you from? What do you do? What inspires you to travel?
My name is Bea, and I'm from Chicago. I work 9-5 by day in the finance industry. I love exploring my city and traveling when I'm not working. I got the travel bug when I visited China the summer before my senior year of college. I fell in love with Beijing's different culture, language, people, and traditions. I wanted to experience that feeling of not knowing and discovering other countries after I traveled to China. Every day I dream about my next trip, wherever that may be. Having the drive to save money so I have something to look forward to during a quarterly trip, inspires me to travel.
2. What are your favorite aspects of domestic vs. international travel?
Domestic travel is something we can all do, even if it's in our own city. You don't need a passport for domestic travel, and there's a lot to explore. I love the fact you can do a road trip a lot of times with domestic travel. I want to take more road trips. I feel like I've traveled more internationally than I have domestically, funny enough. I am making an effort to try to discover more places in the US. Internationally, I love to try authentic dishes custom to people in the country I'm traveling to. Chinese food in the US does not compare to that of the food made in China. The variety alone is not the same. I can't easily find my favorite, unique dishes I once ate in China, so I have to go back for that food. It's so interesting to hear the languages spoken in another country. It intrigues me, and I feel happy to be in an unfamiliar place. The people in other countries are fun to meet, and it's cool to watch and see how they interact with you because they are just as curious about you as you are about them.
3. Do you prefer domestic or international travel? Why?
I prefer international travel. I love to travel outside of the US. I like to see how other people live, learn about their traditions, experience their food, and take in their nature. I enjoy learning about different cultures. I was an International Studies major after all!
4. What did you miss most about international travel after taking a COVID-induced hiatus?
I missed planning trips! I am a huge planner and love to organize trips for myself and my friends. Having no clear direction on when we could travel again and where we could go was a tough time for me. We didn't know when the end of COVID would be, and I was feeling lost without travel. Thankfully, I felt motivated to create an outlet for myself and reminisce about my international trips. I also found comfort in exploring my city more, which is why I finally started Busy Bea Travels.
5. What are you looking forward to most on your next trip?
I'm looking forward to doing something outside my comfort zone that I wouldn't typically do. Something like zip line, parasailing, or just traveling solo. I'm always looking for my next adventure. One of my goals is to travel to all 7 continents. I'm excited I'm on my way to completing that goal, hopefully within the next 5 years.
Where else can folks find you?
People can find me on Tiktok, Facebook, and Youtube at Busy Bea Travels! Follow me for recommendations on places to go in Chicago and beyond!
More #TravelCrushTuesday Featured Women
Here are some more of our favorite travelers and their gorgeous shots.