Category Archives: Product Review

Hair Talk—My Must-Have Products

Posted in Hair, My Hair Updates, Natural Hair, Product Review by

Hola peeps!  Since I returned to natural I am often asked what hair products I use to maintain my coif.  My hair closet is filled with puddings, gels,  curl creams, conditioners and more (I’m a low-key pj) but there are a few products I keep stock piled.  Here they are in no particular order:

1) Giovanni Direct Leave-in Weightless Moisture Conditioner-  I love this conditioner!  It is super light and very moisturizing without being sticky or runny on the hair.  It also works well with other products.  I have used some leave-ins that coat the hair so much that when you add a cream or a gel it leaves a white residue—this doesn’t!

2) Shea Moisture Organic African Black Soap Purification Masque- This masque is the bomb.com!  A few months ago when I went through my extreme dry, itchy scalp scare (remember the post if not go here) this was a major player in restoring it back to normal.  I now use this along with the shampoo and conditioner in the line on the regular to keep my scalp and hair in check.  It is very soothing and claims to also aid in curing dandruff, eczema and psoriasis.

3) Organix Hydrating Teatree Mint {Hydrating Treatment}- Hydrate, refresh, or condition…you name it this product is it!  Although for the most part I use it as a hydrator for my curls after I wash but before I add in my leave-in conditioner.  It smells divine and the tea tree mint leaves your scalp feeling tingly and refreshed.  I can never find this in the store so anytime I run across it I tend to buy a couple of bottles…a must-have for sure!

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4) Curls Passion Fruit Curl Control Paste- If your edges are like mine—unruly and won’t lay down then you need to pick up this paste asap!  This will snatch them back and laid for days.  There is no other edge control out there for me.

5) Jane Carter Solution Revitalizing Leave-in Conditioner- Another leave-in that I cannot do without, however I tend to use this one as a refresher.  It is perfect for reviving flat curls, add moisture to dry hair and great for prepping updos, twists, braids and more.  This will always been in my product arsenal!

6) Ampro Pro Styl Olive Oil Gel- I use all kinds of products on my hair but nothing gives me hold and shine like gel.  Don’t get me wrong I love my Eco Styler gel but this one has truly grown on me.  It doesn’t dry hair or crunchy and enhances my curl pattern.

So there you have it my must-have products!  Have your tried any of these, if so what was your experience?  Do you have a product(s) that you can’t do without?  Do tell!

Product Review—Miss Jessie’s Jelly Soft Curls

Posted in Hair, My Hair Updates, Natural Hair, Product Review by

Hola!  Feliz Cinco de Mayo!  Miss Jessie’s released a new product—Jelly Soft Curls a few weeks ago, the inner pj (product junkie) in me couldn’t resist therefore I caved and bought it!  In the past I’ve gotten pretty decent results from their products so I was hoping that this wouldn’t be any different.  They say that this is “for people who want poppin curls without the crunch” and the directions for use are: Evenly distribute a capful or more to damp , freshly washed,  conditioned and detangled hair. To dry: either air dry or use a diffuser attachment on a blow dryer.

WnG using Jelly Soft Curls.

I washed and applied it to my hair as directed.  The consistency was like any other gel, the smell was very similar to their Pillow Soft Curls (almost like fabric softener) and my hair was super shiny.  Once completely dry (air dry) I fluffed to add extra volume and swept my hair to the side for a bit of sass.

2nd day hair using Jelly Soft Curls.

The second day hair was just as good as the first.  All I did was spritz a bit of water to reactive the product, my curlz were poppin and I had even more volume than before.  Boom!  On a scale of 1-10 I give this a 8, as I will definitely be adding this to my rotation.  Will you be giving this a try?  If you have already then please share your experience!

Hair Talk—Spring Scalp Cleaning

Posted in Hair, Natural Hair, Product Review by

Hola!  Spring has finally sprung however the temps in NYC feels like it is still winter!  Everyone has heard of spring cleaning—your house, closet and more but what about your scalp/hair?  It may sound weird but I learned the hard way that it is very necessary.  Last week I had the worst dry itchy scalp of my life; I freaked out because I have never had scalp issues!  I didn’t and still don’t know if the change of seasons, product build-up or an allergic reaction caused the flare up but I was on a mission to find a quick solution.  I immediately went to google and settled on the following products to combat the problem (in no particular order):

**Tea tree oil—This clear essential oil is derived from the leaves of the Melaleuca alternifolia plant which is native to Australia.  It kills germs and is a natural healing agent for colds, wounds, rashes and more.  I massaged my scalp with this to rid it of any fungi that would’ve possibly been present, the cool tingly feeling soothed the itch!

**Avocado oil—A carrier oil that comes from avocados (of course) is often used for cooking however in many cosmetics as well.  This oil is high in monounsaturated fats and vitamin E which is a great moisturizer for a dry scalp.  I mixed it with the tea tree oil and applied it to my scalp, as well as alone on my edges which can  get really dry.  Please note the consistency is a bit thick so a little goes a long way.

**Organix Hydrating Teatree Mint—This hydrating treatment moisturizes and balances damaged hair.  I used this in place of my normal leave-in conditioner, it just melted into my tresses.  The scent was great and my hair felt wonderful!  If you aren’t familiar with this brand you must check out their wide variety of great hair and body products.

**Shea Moisture African Black Soap Deep Cleansing Shampoo—This shampoo is infused with willow bark extract, tea tree oil and plantain enzyme instantly calmed my itchy irritated scalp.  It didn’t dry my hair out at all but made it feel extremely clean.

**Shea Moisture African Black Soap Balancing Conditioner—This product contains the same ingredients as above and it not only provides moisture but also makes detangling easy.  My tresses felt soft and very hydrated.

**Shea Moisture African Black Soap Dandruff and Dry Scalp Elixir—An all natural treatment that reduces itching and flaking, as well as soothe and balance the scalp.  I used this spray after I cleansed my hair and oiled my scalp.  This will be in heavy rotation as I plan to use this as a quick temporary fix anytime my scalp feels dry or itchy.

Since this issue occurred these products has been apart of my Spring Scalp Cleaning routine which has been in rotation every 2-3 days.  I know some may think that is too much washing for curly hair because it tends to dry out quickly but I don’t plan to neglect my scalp ever again!  Chime in do you/have you had similar issues?  What did you use?  Better yet do you have a hair regime that you follow with the change of the seasons?  Do tell.

Product Review—As I Am Coconut Cowash & Dark and Lovely 10-in-1 Styles Gelee

Posted in Hair, My Hair Updates, Natural Hair, Product Review by

Hola!  Today’s product review is with As I Am Coconut Cowash & Dark and Lovely 10-in-1 Styles Gelee.  After reading so many great reviews about As I Am products I had to snatch it up when I saw it at Target.  I received the Dark and Lovely Gelee in my Curl Box a month ago and I’ve been wanting to try out their new au natural line *remember their product launch I attended*.  Peep the pics and review below.

Damp hair after the cowash waiting while it air dries with Dark and Lovely Styles Gelee.

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2nd day hair- The finished looked had my curlz poppin and shining but crunchy. I think I used to much Gelee.

3rd day hair- I’ve been fluffing my curlz and most of the crunchiness is gone but a little frizzy. It is ok as I wanted big hair. I am still hating these layers though….huh never again!

The consistency is semi-thick and creamy with a coconut smell. The directions says to work it through the hair and it is suppose to make detangling a breeze. It dissolved into my hair but it didn’t add a lot of slip while detangling. Overall it gets the job done but I wouldn’t say that it provided outstanding results. I will continue to use the jar until it is gone perhaps my mind will change by then.

I finished my look with the Gelee. Even though they suggests to use this product with bantu knot outs, twist outs and more; I rarely do any of those because my WNG gives me the same look. The consistency of this products was really sticky, it reminded me of Kinky Curly. I worked it though my hair in sections and let it air dry. It left my hair with great curl definition but I didn’t like the crunchy feeling.

Overall both products did what was expected however with a bit more.  Although I had ups and downs I think that this duo when used together gets a 6 out of 10.  This was my first time using both products perhaps with a few more uses the results will be different, as I may try them with different styles.  Stay tuned for additional results/previews.  :-)

Review—My Miss Jessie’s Curl Bar Experience

Posted in Hair, My Hair Updates, Natural Hair, Product Review by

Hola!  I hope all is good!  This coming October will mark my four-year nappiversary and would you know I have not been to a salon the entire time!  I have trimmed, styled and maintained my own hair through the transition phase up to now.  I’m use to it because in the past I would relax and style my own hair prior to this natural journey anyway.  However the past few months I’ve been contemplating going to a professional stylist for some hair TLC.  Well this past Wednesday I finally decided to treat myself so I headed downtown to Miss Jessie’s Curl Bar salon.  They were having a 25% off special, the reviews were pretty good and I’ve tried their products before so I thought–why not?

I walked in and was immediately greeted, offered snacks/drinks and had my picture taken (for my hairstory/records).  The salon was very nice yet smaller than I had imagined but still quaint.  I opted to get the Buttercut Go Go which is a cut and WNG; they use the “Butterfly Method” whereas multiple stylists may flutter about working on your hair to ensure the best and quick service.   Within 10 mins I was in the chair of the 1st stylist having my consultation and then off to wash.

I had the crazy girl look…lol! I was just a wee bit nervous about the cut that was about to go down.

After my wash I was placed under the dryer for about 15 mins in order to prep for my blow-out which followed immediately by a 2nd stylist. I must say I was terrified of heat damage (see my scary face in the pic above) but it was low heat for the most part and quick so I got over it. Once all of that was done I was now ready for my cut/trim with the 3rd stylist.  I explained to her that I really wanted a trim and shaping not necessarily a drastic cut.  She explained everything that she was doing and asked for my approval the entire time–perfect!

Loving my hair!

I made it through the trim now on to the final steps—styling.  I was back in the hands of the 1st stylist and she suggested that I use Miss Jessie’s Curly Meringue for my tresses.  I was down to give it a try since I’ve only used the Miss Jessie’s Curly Pudding before.  She washed and rinsed my strands then shingled the product through with her fingers.  Again I was placed under the dryer for about 20 mins to set my hair.  Afterwards she diffused to make sure that my roots weren’t damp, picked/fluffed and viola what you see is what you get (see pic above)!

Bangs and fluffed hair!

When I got home I played around with it more by fluffing to make it even bigger and pulled some curlz forward to create bangs.  My curls are popping and it looks much healthier!  My overall experience was great as they were very professional, knowledgeable and quick.  They also gave me a goodie bag filled with over 20 sample packets!  If you are seeking a fix for your curlz then I highly recommend Miss Jessie’s Curl Bar.  You have nothing to lose as you can make an appointment or walk in.  Go here for deets on services, prices, and times.  Enjoy!

*Disclosure: This is not a sponsored post.  I paid for all of my services at the salon.*

Product Review—Shea Moisture Restorative Conditioner + Frizz-Free Curl Mousse

Posted in Hair, My Hair Updates, Natural Hair, Product Review by

Hola peeps!  I hope all is good and that you are in a warmer climate than NYC because it is FREEZING here! Here is a quickie product review of Shea Moisture Restorative Conditioner + Frizz-Free Curl Mousse.  I’ve been wanting to try to both of these for a while especially the mousse since it is a new product.  It was just my luck that I was browsing the aisles of Target when I stumbled upon both and at a BOGO 50% no less—sold!  Here is what I did and my experience with the two:

1) Washed with Shea Moisture Raw Shea Butter Moisture Retention Shampoo (it was trial-size and my first time trying it as well—not bad).

2) Applied Shea Moisture Restorative Conditioner.  I usually put my hair in two sections and finger comb unless it is really a mess then I use a wide-tooth by Ouidad.  The conditioner was creamy, smelled great and allowed me to detangle my hair with ease.

3) After rinsing the conditioner out I lightly spritzed my hair with my own “Refresh Mix” (water + essential oils).

4) Separated my hair into four sections then smoothed and shingled through with the Frizz-Free Curl Mousse.  The consistency was nice (not sticky), added shine and as usual the smell was great; my curls seem to like it.

5) To control frizz the that I always have in my crown I followed with a quarter-size of Ampro Pro Styl Olive Oil Gel just to keep it in tact.

6) Finally let it air dry then fluffed to my liking—viola done!

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My hair with product in it. Nice curl definition and hold!

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Side view before I fluffed to achieve ‘big hair”.

Overall I had a good experience with this combo and will be trying it again.  On a scale of 1-10 I would give it a 7.  Have you tried these products, if so what was your experience like?  Do tell…

My Hair Update—Old-School Roller Rules

Posted in Hair, My Hair Updates, Natural Hair, Product Review by

Hola peeps!  It has been awhile since I have featured my hair so here goes!  As of late I’ve been bored with my usual WNG so I decided to switch it up for the new year.  Read on below for my regimen and how I achieved this soft, curly ‘do.

Here’s what I used and did:

1) Washed and conditioned as normal using random products.

2) Surprisingly I didn’t use a leave-in conditioner but let my hair air dry naturally then slathered on a mixture of olive and cocoa butter oils.

3) Blow dried using low heat to get it semi-straight.  My thoughts were to leave it straight but I didn’t like it so I continued on…

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4) On dry hair I used Jane Carter Solution Wrap & Roll to set my hair using old-school foam rollers

5) I used about 16 big rollers in no particular order to section because I wanted my curlz to be care-free.

6) Overnight I slept with a satin bonnet

7) In the am I used a quarter-size of Jane Carter Solution Nourish & Shine to smooth the frizzies and add shine as I took out the rollers

8) Once all out I shook my head, fluffed and finger-combed to my liking…viola what you see is what ya get!

I love the results—I feel like an old-Hollywood glamazon…haha!  Do you like?  If you have tried these products before what was your outcome?  Better yet did you start 2013 off with a new ‘do?  Do tell all!

(Disclaimer: All products where purchased by me, I was not paid to advertise any products.)

Friday Sass—The New Chic

Posted in Designers, Fashion, Friday Sass, My Style Outs, Polyvore, Product Review by

Hola!  Happy Friday to you all!  I am keeping it short and sweet today with the sass—The New Chic.  The holidays are creeping up quickly and you know what that means…fancy parties and thangs.  Why not step up your game from the LBD and add some lace, faux fur, your highest CL and top it off with a pop of color.  Hotness and demure at the same damn time.  So what are your plans for the upcoming holidays?  Do tell….

The New Chic

Product Review—Miss Jessie’s Pillow Soft Curls

Posted in Hair, My Hair Updates, Natural Hair, Product Review by

Hola peeps!  As I sit here typing this post I can hear the howling winds of Sandy beat against my window.  I pray for all of my fellow NY’ers and anyone in the hurricane’s path—stay safe, alert and watch your local news.

Now on to today’s review—Miss Jessie’s Pillow Soft Curls.  A few weeks ago I covered an event and to my surprise in the gift bag was a full-size version of this product!  I have read what other bloggers had to say about it but I was eager to try it out for myself.  Here is a snippet of what their site said about Pillow Soft Curls:

“Miss Jessie’s PILLOW SOFT CURLS™ is the new styling lotion that borrows fabric care technology and marries it to haircare.   If you don’t want ramen noodle definition and instead want a larger, expanded, fluffy curl then PILLOW SOFT CURLS™ is for you! It’s the first “fabric softener” type styling lotion  that will leave your curls clothesline fresh and fluffy soft.”

Top Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Emulsifying Wax NF, Glycerin, Amodimethicone,  Behentrimonium Chloride, Methyl Gluceth-20, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Guar  Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Blue 1 (CI 42090), Fragrance (Parfum), Limonene, Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Oil, Safflower (Carthamus Tinctorius) Oil, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil…go here for the complete list.

After I washed and conditioned my hair I began to work the it through my hair section by section.  I noticed immediately how easily my hair absorbed the creamy product which I like.  However, the smell was a bit overbearing…don’t get me wrong the fresh fabric softener scent is great on clothes but I don’t like it in my hair. Once all in I let my hair air dry which took about an hour for it to do so.  I was left with very soft, touchable and bouncy hair.  Take a peek at the results…love it!

So what do you think…do you like?  Will you be giving it a try or have you already?  Please feel free to share and/or ask additional questions.  If you are interested in trying out Pillow Soft Curls or any of their other products Miss Jessie’s offers free samples.  Go here to get them now.  Enjoy!

Product Review—Macadamia Natural Oil Flawless

Posted in Hair, Natural Hair, Product Review by

imageHola peeps!  I have another product review for you—Macadamia Natural Oil Flawless.  This surfactant/paraben-free cleansing conditioner was sent to me by the lovely people @Folica *much thks*.  I had briefly heard of this product yet never really looked into what it was all about; so I was super excited that I was able to try it out.  On the bottle it states Cleanse, Condition, Refine, Perfect.  Here’s a peek at the ingredients:

Water (Aqua/EAU), Cetearyl Alcohol, Isopentane, Dimethicane, Glycerin, Decyl Glucoside, Stearalkonium Chloride, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, Macadamia Integrifolia (Macadamia) Seed Oil, Argania Spinosa (Argan) Kernel Oil, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricoria) Flower Extract, Panthenol, Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein Pg-Propyl Silanetriol, Oleanolic Acid, Apigenin, Isobutane, Phenoxyethanol, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Ceteth-10 Phosphate, Dicetyl Phosphate, Steapyrium Chloride, Tetrasodium Edta, Ppg-26, Peg-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Methylisothiazolinone, Biotinoyl Tripeptide-1, Fragrance (Parfum).

I followed the directions which suggested to use 1-2 pumps then apply to the scalp and spread throughout the hair.  Immediately I noticed that it was really creamy, not too thick but just right.  Using only my fingers I massaged the product in until it was fully absorbed.  It felt nice on my scalp and literally melted into my hair.  No suds and it was great as a detangler—helped get the knots out.  I know you natural chicas love that!

Overall, I really like this cleanser—it is light and gets the job done with no damage to my curlz.  I will definitely be giving it another try.  If you want to give it a shot go here to purchase.  Enjoy!

*FTC disclaimer: This product was not purchased by me but provided by Folica for review.*