So here I am this is my second set... my first set I did almost 4 years ago and I submitted to pressure from family to take them out but I learned A LOT and now I am back.. au naturale (mostly)... no product, NO WAX, no backcombing. I did a teeny bit of tnr on a couple just to compare to the ones I have left to their own devices. Beads on some, the rest is free. two weeks old tomorrow... btw I have normally SUPER straight hair, prone to oilies so... I have been washing every three days with a combo of water, baking soda, 2-3 drops tea tree oil, a drop or two of bronners and a vinegar rinse. works awesomely. http://www.hipgallery.com/photopost2/showphoto.php/photo/166965/cat/500/ppuser/112359 (my first set) 2 weeks old 2012