Revealing October 2013 CurlKit and Alikay Lemongrass Leave In Conditioner

Revealing My October 2013 CurlKit

Alikay Takeover

I know it's late but like they say better late than never! I was very pleased with my kit and couldn't wait to try out my goodies. Here's what I got.....

CurlLife: A CurlKit Publication

Alikay Naturals Creme Brulee Curling Delight.....2 ounces

Alikay Naturals Essential 17 Growth Oil .....2 ounces

Alikay Naturals Glazed Argan Oil Silkener.....Sample Packet

Alikay Naturals Honey & Sage Deep Conditioner.....2 ounces

Alikay Naturals Knots Be Gone Hair Detangler.....Sample Packet

Alikay Naturals Lemongrass Leave In Conditioner.....8 ounces

Alikay Naturals Shea Yogurt Hair Moisturizer.....2 ounces

Product Review: Alikay Naturals Lemongrass Leave In Conditioner

I received this item in my CurlKit and I as you can see I couldn't wait to try it. This product promises to lock moisture in hair without weighing it down or causing product build-up. I love the scent it reminds me of lemonhead candy, it's not overbearing like other lemon scented products...no names. I use this as a refresher for my curls, due to the fact that my hair requires cream/y leave-ins. My mother on the other hand uses it as a leave-in. In fact, she's part of the reason I have to purchase another bottle already. This beauty does just what it says it moisturizes my curls without weighing them down; it really extends and preserves my twist outs. Oh yeah and did I mention I often get "you smell good, what is that." It can be purchased at the Alikay  Naturals website for $13.00. It definitely is a keeper, I love it!

By the way this product is free of Mineral Oil, Petroleum, Alcohol, Parabens, Sulfates, Silcones

Ingredients: Water, Glycerin, Almond Oil, Wheat Germ Protein, Silk Amino Acids, Lemongrass Extract, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Rapaseed Oil, Herbal and Botanical Blend

Looky looky.....what I found!

So this weekend, my mother and I went to Patrick Air Force Base and I ran into a neat find..... Nature's Organic Soaps! I couldn't resist...I picked up 5 of them and they are delightful, I mean they smell so good! I have been interested in trying poo bars for the longest and I am so glad I got introduced to these. They are all natural and can be used from head to toe. I bought some Shea Butter as well. For everything I paid $31.80.

Here's what I got.....

Pomegranate Pear (olive oil & shea butter)

                                               Vanilla Sugar (goat milk & shea butter)

Oatmeal Milk & Honey (goat milk & shea butter) 

Acai Papaya (olive oil & Shea butter) 

Brown Sugar Fig (goat milk & shea butter) 

8 oz. 100% Certified Raw Organic Virgin Unrefined Shea Butter

Nature's Organic Soaps can be found on etsy, as well!

Revealing My September 2013 CurlKit

I was so excited to today I received my September CurlKit. It contained all kind of goodies I 

couldn't wait to try. Here's what I got...  

 CurlLife A CurlKit Publication

 Kandy Kurls: Moisturizer Leave In Conditioner 8 fluid ounces

Kandy Kurls: Shea Souffle 4 ounces

 Karen Body Beautiful: Super Duper Hydrating Cream 1 ounce

Koils by Nature: Marvelous Mango Hair & Body Butter 2 ounces 

 Obia: Curl Enhancing Custard 2 ounces

Nubian Heritage: Raw Shea Butter Body Wash 0.5 fluid ounces 

Nubian Heritage: Raw Shea Butter Body Lotion 0.5 fluid ounces

Nubian Heritage: Coconut & Papaya Body Lotion 0.5 fluid ounces

 Spray Bottle

Product Review: Beautiful Textures Curl Definer Mousse

I couldn't resist trying this product when I ran across it in Sally's Beauty Supply. It had a delightful scent and it was a part of a new line, so I had to cop it. I had it for a few month's and I decided to give it a go on straightened hair. It advertises that you will achieve amazing manageability and styling versatility for natural hair: resulting in soft defined curls. I was a little apprehensive in the beginning, thinking that it would cause too much shrinkage. I used perm rods in conjuction with this mousse;I let it sit overnight and I absolutely loved the results and my style actually lasted about 4 days without any issues. My hair had hold, it wasn't sticky, and I didn't get any flakes. I paid about $7.00 at Sally's and it was well worth it.

Ingredients: Aqua, Polyquarternium 11, Aloe Vera, Vitamin E, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Rosemary Extract, Coconut Oil, Olive Oil, Shea Butter, Mango Butter, Argan Oil, Acrylates Copolymer, Glycerin, Cetrimonium Chloride, Imidazolidinyl Urea, Polsorbate 20, Fragrance, Benzyl Benzoa te, d-Limonene, Linalool

Revealing My August 2013 CurlKit

 I know it's kinda if late, but here's what I got in my August Curl kit.....Yes, hunty!

Revealing My July 2013 CurlKit.....

    I was so excited to receive my monthly awaited box. My kit contained 3 full size packages and 3 samples. Overall I was very pleased with what I received and can't wait to try them. Here's what I got...... 

*CurlLife: Curlkit Publication-Fun In The Sun Natural Hair Tips, Summer Sizzle= Natural Curl Goddess 

 *CB Smoothe Smooth Naturally Moisturizing Styling Creme (4 oz jar): adds moisture and shine without weighing down hair. Great for twisting, braiding, wash n gos 

 *Curls Cashmere Curl (2 fl oz Packet): Formulated with Cashmere Extract, Aloe Juice, & Coconut Milk softens, conditions, and repairs. 

 *Eco Styler Olive Oil Styling Gel (3.5 fl oz): Made with 100% Olive Oil, helps attract moisture, its weightless, leave a healthy shine and superior hold.

 *Eco Custard (8 fl oz): Conditioning Shining & Styling Cream Infused with oils and conditioners to protect, hydrate, and nourish hair. 

 *Edens Body Works Coconut Shea All Natural Pudding Souffle (.75 fl oz): Adds moisture using all natural ingredients formulated to reduce frizz, enhance texture styles, and provide a soft, shiny finish.

 * Hi.Pro.Pac Extremely Damaged Hair Intense Protein Treatment (1.75 fl oz Packet): Treats and Corrects Damaged Hair, Rebuilds Strength, Detangles, & Improves Manageability. 

 *Luscious Locks Shea Butter Shampoo (8 fl oz): Sulfate free shampoo enriched with shea butter and infused with fruit pectin and argan oil. Moisturizes, repairs, seals and smooths cuticles. 

 The kit also included a Straight to Curly Afrobella Style Card from Eden Body Works

Poetic Justice Inspired Look

     To avoid too much manipulation to my recently colored hair..... I decided to get box braids. We were going for the poetic justice look. It only took about 3 hours and they are looooong, they are just above my butt. I love them and my goal is to keep them in at least 4 weeks....(fingers crossed). I have been maintaining this protective style with my CD Black vanilla leave in, SM Curl Enhancing Smoothie, CD Macadamia Hold & Control Smoother, DL Au Naturale Sealing Nectar. and Tea Tree Oil.
     At night I spray my scalp and hair with my leave in and then apply curl enhancing smoothie. If needed I apply tea tree oil to scalp for itching to avoid me digging on my scalp. I use the control gel to lay down my edges if needed. I also spray sealing nectar for sheen if needed.

Revealing my June 2013 CurlKit.......

     I was so excited to see my package in the mail box yesterday. There are couple of new items in there that I have been dying to try....oyin hair dew and curl keeper total control for frizzy hair; I was very pleased to receive those items. I was expecting a box busting at the seam with 3 full size products, I didn't get that but overall I was pleased. Here's what I received........

*CurlLife ( CurlKit Magazine)

*Caviar Curls Velvet Leave-in Detangler (8 fl oz)

*Curly Hair Solutions Curl Keeper (1 oz)

*Itiba Papaya Body Lotion (2 fl oz)

*Lustrasilk Curl Max Twisty Curly Spray (8 fl oz)

*Oyin handmade Hair Dew (2 fl oz)

*Pooka Lemonade Hand Exfoliator  (sample)

Rockin' the Straight Look!

Recently I got bored and decided to straighten my hair. Back in Febuary, I went to a salon and did it...this time I decided to do my own hair. Here's how I did it.

1. I washed my hair with it's a 10 Silk Express miracle silk shampoo.
2. I placed the it's a 10  Silk Express miracle silk conditioner on my hair for about 10 to 15 minutes, allowing me a chance to detangle in sections.
3. My hair was still in sections when I rinsed out the conditioner.
4. I then applied it's a 10 Silk Express silk smoothing balm to my hair.
5. I blow dried my hair using a comb attachment.
6. Once completely dry, I applied Carol's Daughter Macadamia Heat Protection Gloss to my hair.... Then proceeded with the flat iron process.
7. While flat ironing I did this in sections, placing a small tooth comb below flat iron as it's being pulled through.

*I loved the results... Plenty of body, in fact many people thought I relaxed it. Even with that being said I miss my curly do.....I smell a twist out coming real soon.

Product Review: Ori Essentials Cleansing Conditioner

     I received this product in my May 2013 Curlkit and I couldn't wait to try this cleanser. It is described as a gentle cleanser that removes residue and soothes scalp, while maintaining  and adding moisture to curls. This cleanser is free of parabens, sulfates, silicones, mineral oil, petroleum, alcohol, and dyes. It has a very creamy texture and has a very sweet scent, you can definitely smell the coconut. I was a little nervous due to the ingredients list with alcohol being listed twice, but surprisingly, I loved this cleanser, it cleaned my hair and scalp like a dream and provided enough slip for easy detangling. This one's a keeper I definitely plan on incorporating this one in my regimen...can you say staple. This conditioner can be purchased on the Curlkit website for $12.00.

Ingredients: Purified Water, Nettles, Horsetail, Chamomile, Tea Tree, Cetyl Alcohol, Cetrimonium Chloride, Polysorbate-20, Stearlkonium Chloride, Coconut Oil, Carrrot Oil, Argan Oil, Olive Oil, Phenoxyethanol and Capryloyl Glycine and Undecylenoyl Glycine, Fragrance.

My Nappiversary/ Naturalversary!

Recapping May 2012 to May 2013

So May 17th marked my natural anniversary! Yaaaayyyyy! I was worried I wasn't going to make it this far, but I an so glad I did. Things I have learned thus far...

*Water is your best friend; inside and out

*What works for one person won't necessarily work for you

*Travel/trial sizes are your BFF (prevents you from being a product junkie and wasting unnecessary money)

*Protective styles are a blessing (twist outs, braids, etc)

*Not all products are created equal and just cause you pay more doesn't make it better. 

*Your hair is growing, so don't compare your growth to someone elses

Revealing My May 2013 CurlKit..........

     So I received my long awaited May Curlkit today and I was a bit worried because it seemed a bit lighter than the previous kits. Although lighter than usual there were some good items in the kit. This months kit included.......

     CurlLife (Curlkit Magazine)

     Giovanni Tea Tree Triple Threat Invigorating Shampoo (2 fl oz)

     Giovanni Tea Tree Triple Threat Invigorating conditioner (2 fl oz)

     Nyah Oatmeal & Honey Soap (1.5 oz)

     Ori Essentials Cleansing Conditioner (8 fl oz)

     Satin Triangle Scarf 

     UR Curly Tight Curl Enhancer (1.75 fl oz)

     Yum Yum Candle Limoncello scent (4 oz)

     

Product Review: Kiss My Face Upper Management Gel

     I was introduced to this gel at a natural hair meet up back in September of 2012. This product states it is a medium hold gel that is perfect for all hair types: nourishes hair, natural formula with out build up, free of SLS, free of parabens, free of phthalates, no animal ingredients, no animal testing, and no artificial colors/fragrances.  I finally decided to use this gel in aiding in my twist-outs and to help lay these edges down........my verdict it actually worked. After twisting my washed hair , I place this gel on top of my cream styling agent for hold. It has a grapefruit scent and has the texture of a jelly without the stickiness and it doesn't cause flakes. In addition, this gel comes in a bottle so you don't have to dip your finger in a jar. I definitely plan on continuing to use this product again, I really like it (May even become a staple product, hmmm.) I purchased this product at Publix for approximately $6.00 for an 8 ounce bottle. 

Ingredients: Purified, Deionized Certified Organic Floral Water of Nettle, Calendula and Chamomile, Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Hydroxymethylglycinate (Amino Acid derived), Yeast Extract, Panthenol, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Grapefruit Extract

My Perfect Twist-Out

To those who don't know my favorite style is........drum roll please.......a twist-out. After  going through these steps I absolutely fell in love with my results.

1. Wash: Wet hair then applied SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl and Shine Shampoo concentrating on the ends the first time, then the second time on my scalp.

2. Condition: I applied SheaMoisture Mango & Carrots Kids Extra Nourishing Conditioner to my hair and let it sit for about 45 minutes; then rinse.

3. Seal: Applied coconut oil to seal in the moisture.

4. Applied Karen's Body Beautiful Sweet Ambrosia Leave In.

5. Style: I parted my hair in sections and detangled each section with my Denman; then I placed them in my 2-strand twist using SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie. (15-20 twists)

6. Rubbed Kiss My Face Upper Management Gel in hands and applied it to my twist. Let dry overnight.

7. The following morning twists were taken down and fluffed.

*My hair was left with definition, shine, body, hold and most of all it was soft to touch. Loved It!

Revealing My April 2013 Curlkit

     I received April's Curlkit about a week and a half ago and unfortunately one of the products had completely wasted out and another half way.....I know wonk,wonk. I was a little ticked off about it so I decided to contact the company in which I can appreciate the fact that they personally apologized. Despite the mishap in the mail handling, there were some great items in this kit some old favorites and some new.

CurlLife Magazine Volume 8
Amazing Botanicals AloeMint Spritz (2 fl oz) *
Ampro ProStyl Vitamin E Oil (6 fl oz)
Ampro ProStyl Silk Edges (.14 oz sample packet)
Ampro ProStyl Shine n Jam (.14 oz sample packet)
HoneyCurls Hair Honey Oil Blend (2 fl oz)
Karen's Body Beautiful Sweet Ambrosia Leave In (2 fl oz)*
Naturalista Juicy Leave In Conditioner (2 fl oz)
Ori Essentials Moisturizing Leave In Conditioner (8 fl oz)

*wasted product

Product Review: Dark and lovely Au Naturale Anti-Shrinkage Line

     I finally ran across these products in my local Walgreens a couple a months ago after hearing about this new natural line from Dark and Lovely. These products run about 9.99 a piece a and smell like mango, like a very tropical smell. I really enjoyed the products, so here we go......

Coil Moisturizing Souffle is described as "a moisturizing delight with a low crunchless hold that instantly defines and softens tight curls and coils." The directions state to apply to conditioned, detangled, damp hair and allow to air dry; finish off with Sheen Sealing Nectar. So, I followed the instructions and applied it to my damp, detangled hair at night while doing a twists for a twist-out; I sealed the end of my twists with KBB Love Butter. I let them stay in overnight and in the morning removed the twists and my hair very moisturized and my coils were very defined. My twist out lasted about 2 to 3 days. It had a very light creamy texture like that of a conditioner. I really liked the product because there was no flakes or residue after applying. I used this product several times and there were great results each time.

Ingredients: Water , Cetearyl Alcohol , Cetyl Esters , Glycerin , Fragrance , Phenoxyethanol , Isopropyl Alcohol , Mangifera Indica Seed Oil/Mango Seed Oil , Tricedeth-6 , Cetrimonium Chloride , Benzyl Salicylate , Methylisothiazolinone , Linalool , Benzyl Alcohol , Limonene , Yellow 5 (CI 19140) , Yellow 6 (CI 15985) , Geraniol , Bambusa Vulgaris Sap Extract

10-In-1 Styles Gelee is described as a crunchless firm hold gel that controls frizz and elongates coils. It says it can used on wet or dry hair. I tried this product alone on twists for a twist-out and along with a couple of styling moisturizing creams (Moisturizing Souffle and CocoCurls Styling Cream). When I tried it alone, I loved the definition but it felt a little dry and crunchy, that's why I decided to use it together with a cream which yielded awesome results which I loved. It has the texture of flaxseed gel. I received so many compliments on my twist out results.

Ingredients: Water , Sorbitol , Glycerin , Benzyl Alcohol , Lithium Magnesium Sodium Silicate , Dehydroxanthan Gum , Phenoxyethanol , Fragrance , Panthenol , Mangifera Indica Seed Oil/Mango Seed Oil , Ethylhexylglycerin , Benzyl Salicylate , Linalool , Limonene , 2 Oleamido 1 , 3 Octadecanediol , Bambusa Vulgaris Sap Extract , F.I.L. D55074/2

10-in-1 Gelee alone

10-in-1 Gelee with Styling Cream

Sheen Sealing Nectar is a sheen spray that conditions both the hair and scalp while providing a succulent sheen used after styling. What I really like about this product is that it provides a light sheen of an oil to my hair in a spray bottle. I liked the product it did what it said it would do...I am not going to get rid of my oils, but it provides a great option.

Ingredients: Isopropyl Myristate , Helianthus Annus Seed Oil/Sunflower Seed Oil , Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride , Prunus Armeniaca Kernel Oil/Apricot Kernel Oil , Dicaprylyl Ether , Isopropyl Isostearate , Fragrance , Mangifera Indica Seed Oil/Mango Seed Oil , Benzyl Salicylate , Linalool , Benzyl Alcohol , Limonene , Geraniol , Bambusa Vulgaris Extract , F.I.L. D55090/2

Revealing My March 2013 Anniversary CurlKit.....

     I was very excited in anticipation for this month's kit, I know it was the anniversary edition and contained some of their favorite things. This kit contained......

   CurlLife (CurlKit Publication) Volume 7: Anniversary Edition

   III Sisters of Nature Once a Week Nourishing Treatment (2 oz sample)

   Alikay Lemongrass Leave In Conditioner (2 oz sample)

   Aubrey Organics GPB Balancing Conditioner (11 oz)

   Bel Nuovo Coco Castor Pudding (2 oz sample)

   Ecostyler Styling Gel: "Pink" For Curly and Wavy Hair (8 oz)

   SoapyLuv Raspberry Green Tea Soap

   WonderCurl Butter than Love Hair Pudding (2 oz sample)

Can't wait to try all these goodies!

   

Time to Play with Clay!

I have heard all the rave about Bentonite Clay (Indian Healing Clay) and how it is suppose to rid the hair of impurites (clarify), increase curl definition, and increase hair shine. So after thinking and debating, I decided to make a Bentonite Mask for my hair using these ingredients ........

I mixed the clay and vinegar at about a 1:1 ratio with a few drops of vitamin e oil which resulted in a paste (Sorry, I didn't accurately measure the ingredients.) I applied it to my hair in sections and allowed it to sit for about an hour. I rinsed it out in warm water and my curls did appear shiny, springy, and more defined; however it felt like straw.

So, I followed up with Aubrey's Honeysuckle Rose Conditioner as a Deep Conditioner which I allowed to sit for also about an hour. My hair felt very moisturized and I loved it. I probably will implement this step in my regimen at least once a month to rid my hair or impurities.

Product Review: Texture My Way Keep It Curly Ultra Defining Curl Pudding

   

     

      The label reads that this Ultra-Defining Curl Pudding is the ultimate solution for achieving luscious, elongated, moisture-rich curls that last all day. It controls and transforms dry, tangled, lack-luster hair into silky, healthy-looking, beautiful curls, coils and waves. Super light-weight and non-greasy, Keep It Curly Ultra-Defining Curl Pudding helps restore a healthy moisture balance, while taming frizz & minimizing shrinkage, Daily use allows you to define and create your best signature style. Whether you rock two-strand twists, kinky coils, long spirals, smooth waves, or any look that requires long-lasting, intense moisture, Keep It Curly puts you in control. It has a decent smell, like a citrus scent and has the texture of a pudding; you can definitely tell that it is water based when applying it. I have you it on a wet twist out, on a dry twist out, and as a moisturizer and I yielded pretty good results. I ran across this product line at my local beauty supply, a 15 fl oz. jar for $6.99; I figured I would give it a try and I am glad I did. i probably liked the results more so on my dry twist out than the wet twist out.


Ingredients: Aqua , Propylene Glycol, PPG-1 Trideceth-6, Butyrospermum Parkii Fruit, Glycerin, Glycine Soja Oil, Olvea Europaea Fruit Oil, Daucus Carota Sativa Seed Oil, Polyquarternium-37, Propylene Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate, Cetyl Alcohol, Dimethicone, Parfum, d-Limonene, Lanolin Oil, Acrylamidopropyltrimonium Chloride/Acrylamide Copolymer, Stearalkonium Chloride, Benzyl Benzolate, Linalool, 5-Chloro-2-Methyl-4-Isothiazolin-3-One, 2-Methyl-4-Isothiazolin-3-One, Hydrolyzed Quinoa, Yellow 5, Blue 1, Red 40.

Revealing My February 2013 Curlkit.......

     So I finally received my February Curlkit and it was worth the wait. It seems like every month I say that this is going to my last month and then I get my kit. If only the Curlkit knew how much they were enabling this product junkie.....I clearly have a problem. This month included.........


     CurlLife (CurlKit Magazine)

     B's Organics Jamaican Liquified Coconut Oil                1 fl. oz.

     Cantu Shea Butter for Naturals Hair Lotion                   13.8 fl. oz.
     Charming Terry Turban
     Giovanni Smooth As Silk Deeper Moisture Conditioner 2 fl. oz.
     Mixed Chicks Trial & Travel Pack                                2 fl. oz.
     Oyin Handmade Burnt sugar Mini                                 Sample
     Pooka Mint n Rose Spa Soak                                      Sample

I can't wait to test them out......reviews here we come.......

Product Review: Curls Lavish Curls Moisturizer

     Curls Lavish Curls Moisturizer is a 2nd day curl refresher that is suppose to refresh, rehydrate, and reactivate dry curls. This product is free of sulfates, silicones, parabens, mineral oil, and petroleum. This is my go to refresher when I pineapple my hair or where it loose under my satin sleep cap. It gives my curls life and smells like candy, to me anyways.  When I first sprayed it i wasn't expecting it to be as thick as it was...it wasn't as thick as castor oil but it wasn't thin like water or spray leave ins. In fact it reminded me of Curl Junkie Curls in a Bottle. I did have to use an oil over it to seal in the moisture, because when I used it alone about half way through the day my hair felt dry.  I picked 8 fl oz. bottle at Sally's Beauty Supply for $9.99

Ingredients: water, glycerin, polysorbate 80, methylheptyl isostearate, silk amino acids, certified organic anthemis nobilis flower extract, aloe barbadensis leaf juice, butyrospermum parkii (shea butter), simmondsia chinensis (jojoba) seed oil, certified organic camelllia sinensis leafextract, citric acid, guar hydroxypropyltrimonium chloride, disodium EDTA, potassium sorbate, phenoxyethanol, caprylyl glycol, fragrance

Product Review: Profectiv Mega Growth Anti-Breakage Strengthener Growth Oil

     Profectiv Mega Growth Oil promises 7x Stronger hair. promises and I quote "to protects, restores, repairs & rebuilds fragile, damaged hair for healthier hair growth Fortified with Pro-Growth Complex - a deep penetrating blend of natural minerals, oils & proteins MegaGrowth strengthens hair from the inside out to promote stronger, longer healthier hair. Strength & Growth: Wheat Protein, Oat Protein, Soy Protein, Horsetail Extract. Restore & Rebuild: Wheat Germ Oil, Olive Oil, Flax Seed Oil, Jojoba Oil. Hi-Shine & Heat Protection: Silk Amino Acids, Avocado Oil, Coconut Oil, Grape Seed Oil. Stops breakage. Promotes healthy growth. Boosts hi-shine. Stronger, longer, healthier hair. For relaxed & natural styles." I was introduced to this oil about a year ago when I got box braids by my hair stylist and I just had to try it because the smell was awesome. I can't really describe the scent but it is a sweet smell, maybe island scent. This oil is very light and does not weigh my hair down...I have used it for scalp massages, pre-poos, and sealing. In addition to that it can be used as a cuticle oil or placed in lotion to relieve dry skin, which is a bonus if I may say so myself. I picked a 8 oz. bottle up from my local beauty supply for $5.99 and I like it, this is definitely a must try if you have not.

Ingredients: Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Lanolin Oil, C12-C14 Alkyl Benzoate, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Oil, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Oil, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil, Persia Gratissima (Avocado) Oil [Contains Vitamins B2, D, A, E, K, and Potassium], Linum Usitassimum (Flax) Seed Oil, Equisetum Hiemale (Horsetail) Extract, Silk Amino Acids, Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Protein, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Protein, Hydrolyzed Oat Protein, Hydrolysed Vegetable Protein PC-Propyl Silanetriol, Phenyl Trimethicone, Zea Mays (Corn) Oil, BHA, BHT, Propylparaben, Parfum (Fragrance).

Product Review: It's a 10 Miracle Shine Spray with Noni Oil

     It's a Miracle Shine Spray with noni oil promises to provide weightless shine, softens coarse hair, improves elasticity, antioxidants, environmental protection, anti-humidity & minimizes frizz, thermal protection, imparts control & manageability, seals & protects hair, and locks in moisture. It can used on wet and dry hair. I was looking for a product to that reduces frizz when wearing my hair straight and decided to give it try. I liked the fact it didn't reek of alcohol and didn't contain mineral oil like other "oil sheens." This product did not weigh my hair down and prevented my hair from returning to a fro. This will definitely be one of my staple products when I wear my hair straightened, not so much when I am wearing it natural/curly though. I purchased this 4 oz product from Ulta for about $20...I know, ouch!

Ingredients: Alcohol Denat., Cyclomethicone, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Phenyl Trimethicone, Anthemis Nobilis Flower Extract, Hydrolyzed Silk/Serica/Soie, Silk Amino Acids, Benzophenone-4, Morinda Citrifolia Fruit Extract, Cananga Odorata (Ylang Ylang) Oil, Orbignya Oleifera (Babassu) Seed Oil, Cannabis Sativa (Hemp) Seed Oil, Citrus Bergamia (Bergamot) Oil, Camelia Oleifera (Red Tea) Extract, Cymbopogon Flexuosus (Lemongrass) Oil, Jasminum Officinale (Jasmin) Extract, Argania Spinosa (Argan) Nut Oil, Fragrance/Parfum, Hydroxycitronellal, Benzyl Salicylate, Hydroxyisohexyl 3-Cyclohexene Carboxaldehyde, Butylphenyl Methylpropional, Linalool, Citronellol, Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone.

Product Review: Motions Weightless Hairdressing

     Motions  Weightless Hairdressing is a product that promises to give hair an extra styling boost, that reduces frizz while moisturizing and adding suppleness and shine. I was introduced to this product by my hair stylist who absolutely loved it, with that being said I just had to try it. I purchased this product at Target for $3.59 and it has been my go to hairdressing since my blow out. It has the appearance that of grease, but has a very light texture; you can definitely tell it is water based once you touch it. It is non-greasy but definitely provides the moisture and and shine that my hair needs. If I wouldn't have been introduced to it I probably would have never tried it.....I am so thankful that I did! I absolutely love the shine and moisture that my hair exuded and most of all it didn't and hasn't weighed my hair down and it smells very nice as well.

Ingredients: Water (Aqua) , Glycerin , Propylene Glycol , Polyacrylamide , C13 14 Isoparaffin , PEG-12 Dimethicone , DMDM Hydantoin , Fragrance , Laureth-7 , Hexyl Cinnamal , Linalool , Disodium EDTA , Butylphenyl Methylpropional , Limonene , Hydroxyisohexyl 3-Cyclohexene Carboxaldehyde , Citronellol

Surprise!!!

     So I went to the Rootz of Hair Care Salon (www.fromtherootzhair.com/) located in Port Saint Lucie, FL and Mrs. Sandra put a hurting on my hair. I got my hair deep conditioned, trimmed, and thermally straightened..........I Love It.

Before

After

I believe the before is just as beautiful as the after! What do you think?

Product Review: SheaMoisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie

     When I first decided I was going natural I ran across this product in my local drugstore and from then on we were connected at the hip. This product states it conditions, restores moisture, adds body and shine, enhances curls, minimizes frizz and provides curl control for thick curly hair. It has a coconut scent and you know I love coconut. This smoothie has a light whipped texture and is very creamy. I have used it as a moisturizer and I have mixed it with Ecostyler Gel to style my twistouts......all with pretty good results. With that being said beware of using to much, there is a possibility of fuzz balls, so use the minimum. Overall I enjoyed the product and have turned my mother onto it  and its her all time favorite. I purchased a 12 oz jar at Walgreens for $9.99.

Ingedients: Deionized Water , Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter) , Cocos Nucifera Oil (Coconut) , Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil , Persea Gratissima Oil (Avocado) , Vegetable Glycerin , Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract , Silk Protein , Ammonium Salt , Melia Azadirachta Seed Oil (Neem) , Daucus Carota Sativa Seed Oil (Carrot) , Sorbitol Esters , Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B-5) , Caprylyl Glycol , Essential Oil Blend , Tocopherol (Vitamin E)

Product Review: Pantene Truly Naturals

                       

     So I just had to try the new Pantene line for us naturals, it was calling my name. I purchased the Defining Curls Styling Custard and the Co-Wash Conditioning Cleanser @ Walmart for $4.97 a piece. I first washed my hair with the co-washing cleanser and it cleaned my hair very well. It didn't strip my hair and my hair was soft to the touch; I finger detangled in the shower and it gave good slip. While damp, I applied the custard and it did make my curls pop, in fact my mother said "your hair looks so curly." The scent for the shampoo smelled just as the other Pantene shampoos and had a creamy texture. The custard has a custard, non tacky texture and it is scented with fragrance which was a tad bit over powering for me, I applied it at night and smelled it all night.

Co-Wash Ingredients: Water, Stearyl Alcohol, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Cetyl Alcohol, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Fragrance, Benzyl Alcohol, Disodium EDTA, Panthenol, Panthenyl Ethyl Ether, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Methylisothiazolinone.

Custard Ingredients: Water, Dimethicone, Sorbitol, Aminomethyl Propanol, Carbomer, VA/Crotonates Copolymer, Benzyl Alcohol, Fragrance, DMDM Hydantoin, PEG 40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Panthenol, Panthenyl Ethyl Ether, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil

Product Review: U R Curly Product Line

U R Curly Soya Shampoo           $6.99

      This product states it will clean and moisturize hair leaving it smooth and soft to touch; it soothes the scalp, reduce breakage, nourish damaged hair and promote growth. It created a good lather and got my hair clean with out a doubt, however it had a medicine like scent to me that I wasn't to fond off.

Ingredients: Artesian Water, Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Cocoyl Taurate, PEG 150 Distearate, Polyquat 10, Menthol, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Polysorbate 20, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Crambe Abyssinica Seed Oil, Fragrance, Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Methylisothiazolinine

U R Curly Quinoa Conditioner    $6.99

      This product states it will moisturize and detangle, leaving hair shiny and soft; it reduces breakage, nourish damage and promote hair growth. It had a creamy texture and I liked the way my hair felt soft after using, however this was had the medicine scent as well.

Ingredients: Water, Cetearyl Alcohol, Peg-40 Hydrogenated, Castor Oil, Stearalkonium Chloride, Hydrolyzed Quinoa, Glycerin, Polyquaternium-10, DMDM Hydantoin, Menthol, Leaf Oil, Crambe, Abyssinica Seed Oil (Abyssinian Oil), Fragrance, Aloe, Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender), Flower/Leaf/Stern Extract, lodopropynl Butylcarbarrate

U R Curly Loose Curl Enhancer  $6.99 &  U R Curly Tight Curl Enhancer    $6.99

     These products state that they revitalize and stimulate curls, controlling frizz, leaving hair sift and shiny.They have a non-greasy, jelly like texture; I can't really describe the scent however it wasn't like the medicine scent of the shampoo and conditioner. They are applied to clean damp hair and they just didn't do much for my hair; I am a twist out type of girl, so the wash and go I was attempting with these.....I didn't like.

Loose Curl Ingredients: Artesian Water, Glycerin, PPG-5 Ceteth-20, Polysorbate 20, VP/Dimethylaminoethylmethacrylate Copolymer Carbomer, Triethanolamine, DMDM Hydantoin, Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein PG Silanetriol, Fragrance, Crambe Abyssinica Seed Oil (Abyssinian Oil), Aloe Extract, Honey Extract, IodopropynylButylcarbamate

Tight Curl Ingredients: Artesian Water, Glycerin, PPG-5 Ceteth-20, Polysorbate 20, Carbomer, Triethanolamine, DMDM Hydantoin, Fragrance, Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein PG Silanetriol, Crambe Abyssinica Seed Oil (Abyssinian Oil), Panthenol (Provitamin B5), Echinaecea Extract, IodopropynylButylcarbamate

All these products are free of alcohols, parabens, sulfates, and dyes.

Product Review: Suave Almond & Shea Butter Moisturizing Conditioner

   

     Suave Professionals Almond & Shea Butter Moisturizing Conditioner promises to replenish and leave hair well nourished and beautiful. I ran out of my HE Totally Twisted Conditioner and decided to try something new and I loved it! It smelled liked almonds, which was lovely. It had a creamy texture and my hair felt so soft and I got pretty good slip form it. This will definitely be something I can see myself continuing to use, this will be my go to for co-washes. For a 12.6 oz bottle I purchased from Walmart for like $2.99.


Ingredients: Water (Aqua) , Cetearyl Alcohol , Dimethicone , Stearamidopropyl Dimethylamine , Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Oil (Sweet Almond) , Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter) , Aloe Vera (Aloe Barbadensis) Leaf Juice , Cymbopogon Schoenanthus Oil (Lemongrass) , Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil , Chamomilla Recutita Flower , Leaf Extract , Lavandula Angustifolia Flower Extract (Lavender) , Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil (Jojoba) , Behentrimonium Chloride , Fragrance , Dipropylene Glycol , Lactic Acid , Potassium Chloride , Amodimethicone , Disodium EDTA , DMDM Hydantoin , PEG-150 Distearate , PEG-7 Propylheptyl Ether , Cetrimonium Chloride , Methylchloroisothiazolinone , Methylisothiazolinone

Hair Haul!

Walmart

     Pantene Pro-V for Naturals Co-Wash Conditioning Cleanser    $4.97

     Pantene Pro-V for Naturals Defining Curls Styling Custard       $4.97

     Suave Professionals Almond and Shea Butter Conditioner       $2.99

SalonCentric

     Mizani Intense Moisture & Softness Set                                  $16.00

          Moisturfusion Milk Bath 8.5 oz

          Moisturfusion Silk Cream Conditioner 8.5 oz

          D'Tangle Moisturizing Leave-In Milk 8.5 oz

Walgreens

     Dark and Lovely Au Naturale 10-in-1 Styles Gelee 5.3 oz         $9.99

     Dark and Lovely Au Naturale Curl Defing Creme Glaze 14.4 oz $9.99

     Dark and Lovely Au Naturale Coil Moisturizing Souffle 14.4 oz  $9.99

I know a product junkie at its finest..........Reviews to come!

What in the porosity?

     Porosity is the hairs ability or inability to absorb water. Although all hair is porous it is the level of porosity that varies. Hair with low porosity does not absorb moisture well and tends to resists chemical treatments. Black hair tens to be more porous than other hair types. Hair with high porosity absorbs water well when wet and looses moisture even more when it dries. A hair's pH and porosity as related: low pH products and styling treatments reduce hair's porosity causing tightening of the cuticle, high pH products increase the porosity by swelling the cuticle. High porosity is caused by heat-styling, sun, chemicals (relaxer/ color), and shampoos that strip. The more damage the greater the porosity...the more moisture it absorbs. It tends to be difficult to keep porous hair moisturized....a weekly ACV rinse, low pH shampoo, or neutralizing shampoo can help correct this problem. 
     How do you check for porosity? While hair is freshly cleaned and dried, grasp a clump of hair between you thumb and index finger and slide along from tips to root. If you feel bumps....your hair is slightly porous. Another way of testing is by plucking a clean strand of hair from your head and gently laying it in a glass of room temperature tap water. If it starts to sink right away it is very porous. The faster it sinks the higher the porosity.

Information attained from Davis-Sivasothy, Audrey. The Science of Black Hair. April 2011. e-book.

Product Review: Cantu Shea Butter for Natural Hair Moisturizing Twist & Lock Gel

     I decided to give this product a try since I absolutely love the Cantu Leave In Conditioning Repair Cream. I purchased it at my local CVS for $9.29. First it smells like coconut and I love the smell of coconut. It has a lightweight jelly like texture and it is non-greasy. I used this product to retwist my twistout all last week and I was impressed. In fact my little sister asked me "what did you do, that's the best your hair has ever looked." Resisting the urge to slap her.... I did enjoy the results, it did not weigh my hair down, it was soft and it was very defined. On day 5 of using it daily I did see some flaking, but hey I used it every night. Will I use this product again of course this is going to be my staple when it comes to retwisting my twist outs at night. I love this product just as I did the Leave In Repair Cream.

Ingredients:Water (Aqua) , PVP , Fragrance , Polyquaternium 37 , Cocos Nucifera Extract (Coconut) , Butyrospermum Parkii Butter (Shea) , Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil , Cocos Nucifera Oil (Coconut) , Aloe Vera (Aloe Barbadensis) Leaf Juice , Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Oil (Sweet Almond) , Persea Gratissima Oil (Avocado) , Simmondsia Chinensis Oil (Jojoba) , Olea Europaea Fruit Oil (Olive) , Mangifera Indica (Mango) Seed Butter , Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil (Argan) , Melia Azadirachta Seed Oil (Neem) , Daucus Carota Seed Oil (Carrot) , Lonicera Japonica Flower Extract (Honeysuckle) , Laminara Cloustoni Extract (Sea Kelp) , Salvia Officinalis (Sage) Leaf Extract , Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil (Macadamia) , Vitis Vinifera Seed Extract (Grape) , Urtica Dioica Extract (Nettle) , Silk Amino Acids , Hydrolyzed Silk , Phenoxyethanol , Ethylhexylglycerin

Revealing My January Curlkit!

     This month's kit was bulging more than last months kit, I think they just might have to invest in a larger box to fit all the goodies. This months kit included.....

     CurlLife (Curlkit Magazine)

     Ampro Pro Styl Olive Oil Gel (2 oz sample)

     Annie Rubber Cushion Brush (generic to the Denman)

     As I Am Naturally Coconut CoWash (full size)

     Beautiful Textures Rapid Repair Deep Conditioner (0.5 oz sample)

     Coco & Cream Raspberry Rice Pudding Shampoo Bar

     Keratin Maintenance Replenish Masque (1.75 fl oz sample)

     Koils by Nature Ultra-Moisturizing CocoAloe Deep Conditioner (2 oz sample)

     Lustrasilk Moisture Max Keratin Amino Acid Leave-In Creme Conditioner (1.75 fl oz sample)

     Pooka Pure and Simple Pomegranate Kiwi Sugar Body Polish (2 oz sample)

     

     

     

     

My 1st Haul!!!!

      So I made a few stops today including CVS Pharmacy & Dollar Deals and ohhh what fun. I picked up a couple items by Cantu that I wanted to try as well as some hair accessories from scunci.

Dollar Deals
   8 pack of (Basic Solutions) Black Headwraps  $1.00
   8 pack of (Basic Solutions) Multi-Colored Headwraps $1.00

CVS Pharmacy
   21 pcs of (Scunci) Evolution Black Hair Ties $3.39
   8 pc Bogo (Scunci) No Slip Grip Headwraps $5.79
   Cantu Shea Butter for Natural Hair Twist & Lock Gel $9.29
   Cantu Shea Butter for Natural Hair Shine & Hold Mist $8.29
   
     In addition my nieces drug me into Forever21 & Rue21 and I found plenty of cute earrings to add pizazz to my TWA.

   @Rue 21 the accessories were BOGO so they ranged from $3.50 to $6.99.

   @Forever21 they $3.80 and $4.80.

I am definitely glad I went and can't wait to experiment and accessorize!

Product Review: Design Essentials Natural Curl Stretching Cream

     Design Essentials Natural Curl Stretching Cream is a moisturizing cream that claims to smooth and condition hair, while creating frizz controlled curls. I applied this product to clean wet hair and did a twist out ....I was impressed with the results, I ended up with a very defined, moisturized & stretched twist out; to my surprise.  It did give a nice hold, however it was soft. It smells like the cake batter bowl my brother and I used to fight for when we were younger (okay we still fight for). I definitely enjoyed this product. I purchased a 16 oz jar for $38.99 (I know ouch). This product is petroleum free, mineral oil free, parafin free, paraben free, silicone free, paraben free, and fragrance free. I plan on continuing to use this product and definitely plan on making it last. 

Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Prunus Amygdalus (and) Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil (Sweet Almond Butter),Glycerin, Canola Oil (and) Glycine Soja (Soybean) Germ Extract (and) Zea Mays (Corn) Starch (and) Silica, Olea Europea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Glyceryl Stearate (and) PEG-100 Stearate, Acetylated Lanolin, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Coco Glucoside (and) Glyceryl Monooleate, PEG-8 Dilaurate, Phenoxyethanol (and) Caprylyl Glycol (and) Potassium Sorbate (and) Hexylene Glycol, Crambe Abyssinica Seed Oil, Ceteareth-20, Stearyl Alcohol, Fragrance, Sodium Borate, Carbomer, Panthenol, PVP/VA Copolymer, Hydrolyzed Keratin, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Oil, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), EDTA Disodium, BHT, Caramel, Silk Amino Acid