Product Rave: Free Your Mane Product Line Review

Many people commented on the sheen of my hair in some of my straight hair pics. I tried to keep silent until I tried these products again on my natural hair [I like to test products several times before writing a review], however I couldn't hold it in.  A few weeks ago, I received the entire line of Free Your Mane products for review. I tried them on my natural hair, and I used most of the line when I pressed my hair.

I also received quite a few emails about the texture of my pressed hair. So I wanted to address it in this blog post as it relates to the products I used. My natural hair texture without the addition of serums, butters, moisturizers and styling aids is coarse, kinky/highly textured. The key to "silking out" kinky hair when pressing it is as follows: 

• You must get the hair very clean during the shampoo phase. Hair must be free of buildup, and oils before proceeding to the next step. 
• Replenish moisture and elasticity by using a conditioner that hydrates, improves elasticity and promotes shine. 
• Use proper blow drying techniques [an outline of those techniques can be found here] 
• Use a moisturizing product that will protect the hair and help it retain moisture whilst blow drying and pressing/flat ironing. 
• Use proper pressing techniques [an outline of the proper techniques can be found here]

Your hair doesn't already have to have a very silky texture in order for your pressed hair to appear silky. In fact, the more textured the hair, the better. Hair that is very thick, textured/kinky, and dense appears very full, bouncy and silky provided you followed the steps above. - 

 

When looking for products to use for heat straightened styles, look for products that correct elasticity issues, promote shine, and offer intense hydration. Products that correct elasticity will give the hair more body, which yields a fuller, healthier look. Intense hydration is needed to keep the hair from appearing brittle, and products that promote sheen can give the hair a "healthy sheen".

Here's the review:

Sulfate Free Shampoo                                                                                                                              

$15.95 - 10.14 oz

Product Claims:

Free Your Mane Sulfate Free Shampoo is a luxurious spa treatment for your hair. Super rich lather gently cleanses hair and scalp, while natural oils help rebuild your hair's delicate moisture balance. Free Your Mane Sulfate Free Shampoo extends color life and improves chemical treatment results. 

My review:

I used this shampoo before styling my hair in a natural style, and also before straightening my hair. Each time my hair was extremely soft, shiny, hydrated and manageable. For some reason most Sulfate-Free shampoo's leave my hair feeling very "weird". This Sulfate-Free poo lathered really well [which means only a dime size amount should clean a thick head of hair], and cleansed my hair without leaving it stripped, wiry or dry.  

**Note: Let the water run through your hair, saturating your hair thoroughly. This helps improve the lather of most Sulfate Free shampoos [the sulfates/surfactants are what causes the bubbly lather], and also helps reduce the amount of shampoo needed to get your hair clean.

Who would I recommend this product to?

Transitioners that are looking for a sulfate-free shampoo to help maintain moisture balance, naturals that are looking for more of a natural alternative to shampoo's containing harsh sulfates.

Daily Detangling Conditioner: 

$15.95 - 10.14oz

Product Claims:

Free Your Mane Daily Detangling Conditioner is a breakthrough "must-have" for coarse, thick or unmanageable hair. Finally, here is a conditioner that magically smoothes, and softens frizz and edges, enhances curl definition and brings out maximum shine and vibrancy. Regular use of Free Your Mane Daily Detangling Conditioner actually extends color life and improves chemical treatment results.

My review:

I also used this product before styling my hair in a natural style as a 10 minute leave in conditioning treatment. I didn't use it with heat [because I wanted to test it's moisturizing properties without the addition of heat/steam], and it left my hair manageable, hydrated and shiny. This conditioner makes a great detangling agent, as I could literally glide a comb through my hair without pesky knots, and large tangles.  

Who would I recommend this product to?

If you are looking for a stellar conditioner to hydrate thirsty strands, or a conditioner to aid in detangling your highly textured hair this stuff is absolutely amazing.

Hydrating Hair Masque:

$19.95 - 8.45 oz

Product Claims:

A miracle in a tube, Free Your Mane Intensive Hydrating Hair Masque was specially developed to accelerate your hair’s repair & rejuvenation process. This unique high-performance masque miraculously seals damaged ends, eliminates frizz, smoothes edges, seals plaits and works wonders on natural or processed hair. Try it overnight for wrapping/twists, too. Weekly use extends color life and improves chemical treatment results.

My review:

Probably one of my favorites of the bunch. This stuff is the answer to dry, thirsty hair that lacks elasticity. I used this as a deep conditioning treatment before pressing my hair last week. This repair mask was so good, I sent a few samples to my mom to use on my two sisters. It worked well on their hair as well. This repair mask easily makes the top three conditioners I have tried this year. It left my hair soft as butter, with an incredible amount sheen. 

Who would I recommend this product to?

Anyone that is suffering from chronic dry strands, or those that are looking for an ultra hydrating, luxurious deep conditioning treat. 

Reviving Spray

$14.95 - 6.08 oz 

Product Claims: 

A versatile and weightless refreshment for over-stressed dry hair, Free Your Mane Reviving Spray offers your hair a fresh start without starting over. Reactivate your style or curl pattern without risking the frizziness that plain water creates. Free Your Mane Reviving Spray also serves as an excellent base for all other styling products when you are starting with dry hair. Spray on before setting or plaiting hair for enhanced manageability and hold. Regular use actually extends color life and improves chemical treatment results. 

My review:

I used this as a moisturizing spritz while wearing my hair in it's natural state, and also as a leave-in before pressing my hair. I like that this product is light enough so that it doesn't weigh your hair down; yet hydrating enough to keep my hair moisturized [with a slight hold] during the cold weather we've been having in L.A as of late. - This is also a wonderful leave-in option for those wearing their hair heat straightened, as it keeps your strands lubricated [which helps keep the hair free from knots and tangles] and hydrated whilst blow drying. 

Who would I recommend this to?

I would recommend this to anyone looking for a light moisturizer that doubles as an effective leave in. This product doesn't leave your hair crunchy, greasy or hard, and it offers a slight hold [a plus if you're wearing a braid out, or twist out]

Free Your Mane Restorative Hair Oil:

$24.95 - 4.1 oz

Product Claims:

A natural, ultra-light formula that makes quick work of frizzy or unruly hair this super sized Free Your Mane Restorative Hair Oil™ leaves it velvety smooth and lustrous in an instant! It revives, hydrates and detangles while protecting hair from environmental factors, heat damage and over-processing. Regular use extends color life and improves chemical treatment results. Great for extensions too.

My review: 

Because this product claimed to prevent heat damage, I decided to try it in lieu of my normal serum and heat protector. I applied this to wet hair [after spraying with the Reviving Spray] and began to blow dry my hair per my normal routine. After blow drying my entire head, my hair was very silky, smooth and shiny. My ends were smooth which is also a great sign after blow drying coarse hair like mine. After blow drying, I poured a dime-size amount of oil in my hands, and gently ran it through my hair for even more shine.

Who would I recommend this to?

I would recommend this to anyone who is looking for a multi-purpose product. You can use this as a serum to promote shine, a heat protectant, and an oil to lock in moisture. 

Conditioning Pomade:

$15.95 - 4.1 oz

Product Claims:

A truly healthy, enriching and effective finish for your hair, Free Your Mane Conditioning Pomade™ is a dramatically different two-in-one styling product.  Never greasy, drying or draggy our pomade provides powerful hold for your hair while actually conditioning and polishing the most defiant frizz. Trust it to straighten, smooth and tame as well as to mold, sculpt and define shorter hair and layers. 

My review:

I used this product to lay down my hair line after pressing my hair, and what I loved about it was that it didn't leave my hair stiff and greasy. It was also light enough so that my hairline didn't have that gelled down look. The pomade made my hairline lay down smooth, and it offered shine as well. 

Who would I recommend this to?

I would recommend this to anyone looking for a lightweight pomade that offers hold, sheen, and hydration without the sticky, greasy feel that some pomades leave behind. This product is also a major frizz buster

My final thoughts on this entire line:                                                                                                       

This is one of the first product lines that I had stellar results with while wearing my hair in it's natural state, and whilst wearing it pressed. I often find that products geared towards natural hair are a little too heavy to use when I want to wear my hair straight. So for those that are looking for one highly effective styling system to transition between natural styles and heat straightened styles; I definitely recommend considering this line.

For those that are on a budget, and can only pick a few products from the line; here are my favorites!

Free Your Mane Hair Masque

Reviving Spray 

Sulfate Free Shampoo 

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I did not purchase these products. They were sent to me for review by Free Your Mane courtesy. In order to maintain the integrity of MTM, all samples sent by PR are for consideration only. This allows me to share with you products that work well for me and are worth spreading the word about. If you would like to read my entire policy regarding product reviews, please read the Editorial Policy by clicking {here}.

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Product Review: My Anita Grant Haul!!

About a month ago, the gracious staff over at Hairrogant [the US supplier of Anita Grant] offered to send me some Anita Grant products. Of course I obliged. I have heard many rave reviews on Anita's goodies, and I wanted to try them out for myself! I received a package of Whipped Butter [which I haven't tried yet], Creamy Cafe Latte, Organic Sapote Castor Hair Oil & Anita Grant's infamous Rhassoul Deep Conditioning Spa Mud. 

Rhassoul Deep Conditioning Spa Mud

$12.50 - 3 Cubes

Product Claims:

Our Rhassoul Deep Condishes contains Unrefined Black Cocoa Butter & natural Soya based Vitamin E (mixed tocopherols) which helps to guard scalp & hair from free radical damage. When hot liquid is added to our Rhassoul Deep Condishes, it swells & increases its surface area like a highly porous sponge.  Attracting & trapping toxins into these open porous spaces so that when it comes time to rinse the Rhassoul Deep Condish from your hair the toxins are eliminated and you're left with detoxified fluffy soft tresses.

My review:

 This was the consistency of my mixture

Because my hair is so thick, I decided to use two cubes. I poured about 2 ounces of hot water over two cubes and mixed it with a fork until it was a creamy consistency. I then applied the mixture to freshly shampooed hair and covered it with a plastic cap for about 45 minutes without heat. I then rinsed out the mixture with lukewarm water and the result was ridiculously soft, shiny hair. If I had to rate the softness factor on a scale from 1-10 it would definitely get a ten. No doubt about it. - I also loved that it left my hair full of body and so soft that I could actually comb through my hair using my fingers without it snagging on any knots.

Who should use it: 

If you are struggling with chronic dry strands, or you just want to treat your hair to an ultra hydrating deep conditioning treat, try this out! 

Would I actually purchase this?

Most definitely! This is something that I plan on using twice a month. I love that it is natural and and that it detoxifies and hydrates my hair without leaving it feeling coated or stripped. 

My hair with the treatment

This was how shiny my hair was after rinsing out the conditioning cubes!

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Organic Sapote Castor Hair Oil 

$27.00 - 3.38ounces

Product Claims: 

All of Anita Grant's Castor Hair Oils are rich in texture but light enough to be used every day to seal in moisture, protect & restore vitality to your curls. - Product also helps eliminate issues with dermatitis, helps repair damaged and over-processed hair, and also promotes hair growth. 

My review:

I used this oil on wet hair to seal in the moisture after applying my leave-in conditioner. I only used about a dime size portion on each section of hair [my hair was sectioned in four big braids; two in the front, and two in the back] and I blow-dried my hair on warm until it was slightly damp; braiding each section as I was done with it. 

My hair after blow-drying and removing braids. Still very shiny, soft and bouncy!

The Sapote Castor Hair Oil made my hair easier to manage whilst blow-drying and also kept my strands very soft and full of body. - I love that this product is light enough to be used for heat styling and hydrating enough to actually deliver moisture to highly textured hair like mine. 

Who should use it?

If you are looking for an oil to seal in the moisture, aid in heat styling, or looking for a product to use as a hot oil treatment, this is definitely for you. 

Would I actually buy this product?

Yes. I definitely plan on purchasing this product when my bottle runs out. I love the ingredients, and I love how my hair felt after using this product. - I must admit I was a little leery of this product because I am not really a fan of Castor Oil, but this is much lighter and penetrates my hair much better than Castor Oil. 

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Creamy Cafe Latte

$13 - 3.5 ounces

Product Claims: 

Pure Brazilian Coffee Oil stimulates the follicles while the wholesome goodness of Organic Virgin Coconut oil, nourishes your skin and naturally curly hair. Decadent Organic, Unrefined Fair Trade Black Cocoa Butter from Ghana conditions from top to toe, and the vitamin enriched - velvety suppleness of Australian Macadamia Nut Oil lovingly caresses you everywhere. All engulfed in an abundance of delicious natural & organic skin and curly hair care loving ingredients...mmm-mmm-goodness! 

Product Review:

I think I have found the Holy Grail of butters. Some of you that read my blog may know that I am not really a fan of hair butters. It seems as though they always sit on my hair, and coat the strands rather than soften and nourish them. - 

So fast forward to the review: After each section of my hair dried thoroughly, I decided to cornrow my hair for a light, fluffy braid out. I took down my braids and used the Creamy Cafe Latte on each section as I braided it. Applying the Cafe Latte made cornrowing a breeze [something I absolutely hate doing on my natural hair], and gave my hair tons of sheen and softness.  - I think for me this is the Mecca of hair butters because it definitely made a difference in how easy it was to work with, and how soft and bouncy it left my hair. The sheen was also a definite plus.

I am feeling very "Cleo" from Set It Off in this pic. - I cornrowed my hair using Creamy Cafe Latte, it made my hair soft and manageable, and very shiny!

I don't know how it does for curl definition, as I used this on a dry braid out in which I only left the braids in for a few hours. 

Would I actually purchase this product?

Most definitely! I plan on purchasing a few more jars in the near future for myself and for friends. 

Overall I was very impressed with the performance and quality of Anita Grants products. Most of the ingredients are natural and perform well on highly textured hair! 

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I did not purchase this product. This product was sent to me for review by Hairrogant courtesy of Anita Grant. In order to maintain the integrity of MTM, all samples sent by PR are for consideration only. This allows me to share with you products that work well for me and are worth spreading the word about. If you would like to read my entire policy regarding product reviews, please read the Editorial Policy by clicking {here}.

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Product Review: Shea Moisture Conditioner + Curl Enhancing Smoothie + Strengthening Elixir

I made my way to Target and killed some time perusing the beauty isles. I heard a lot of buzz about Shea Moisture, but I never had a chance to try it out until now! I decided to pick out three products to see how they worked before going crazy and buying everything under the moon. I settled on the Strengthening Elixir, the Raw Shea butter Restorative Conditioning Milk and the Organic Curl Enhancing Smoothie! Here is my review:

Shea Moisture Raw Shea Butter Restorative Conditioning Milk:
Target Stores, $9.99 -  12oz
Product Claims:
Moisturizes and repairs dry, lifeless, over-processed and damaged hair. 

Product Ingredients:

Contains de-ionized water, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea butter)*, Argan oil, coconut oil*, Behentrimonium chloride, essential oil blend, vegetable glycerin, emulsifying wax, sea kelp extract, Panthenol (vitamin B-5), avocado oil, Lonicera Caprifolium (honeysuckle) flower and Lonicera Japonica (Japanese honeysuckle) flower extract, Tocopherol (vitamin E) and Daucus Carota Sativa (carrot) seed oil. *Denotes certified organic ingredients.

Product Review:
This stuff was absolutely AMAZING. Hands down my favorite of the bunch. I used this as a leave-in and added about a dime size amount per 2-inch section of hair and it was heaven for my strands. It made my hair soft, shiny, manageable, and offered slight curl definition. I give this a 10 out of 10 when it comes to moisture, as it is definitely hydrating enough for highly textured hair.

Would I buy this product again?
Most definitely; for $10 I will definitely keep this in the "leave-in" product rotation! 

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Organic Curl Enhancing Smoothie:

Target Stores, $9.99 - 12oz

Product Claims:

Detangles, conditions and defines curls while restoring body and shine.

Product Ingredients:

Nucifera (Coconut) Oil*, Isopropyl Myristate, Sugar Starch, Silk Protein, EssenQal Oil Blend, Melia Azadirachta (Neem) Seed Oil, Caprylyl glycol, Sorbitol Esters, Algae Extract, Hyssopus Officinalis Extract, Salvia Officinalis (Sage) Leafand Equisetum Arvense Extract, Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Seed Oil, Lonicera Caprifolium (Honeysuckle) Flower (and) Lonicera Japonica (Japanese Honeysuckle) Flower Extract, Tocopherol (Vitamin E).

Product Review: 

I have to admit I was a bit skeptical because most curl creams just don't work for my hair unless they are formulated with Polymers to offer hold and volume. I threw it in the basket anyway, and used this product to twist my freshly shampooed and conditioned hair. I didn't use a leave-in conditioner underneath this product because the ingredients listed could offer moisture and curl definition. 

Once applying the product, I did notice some curl definition, but not enough to use for a wash and go. If you have more of a defined curl pattern, the Curl Enhancing Smoothie could really help those curls pop. - My hair was definitely smooth, extremely soft, and manageable once applying the Smoothie; and most importantly, this helped my twists stay twisted. My only qualm with this product was that I had major shrinkage, my twists were barely shoulder-length.

After untwisting my hair the next day, my hair was still hydrated, soft, and shiny. I love that this product didn't leave my hair crunchy, greasy or covered in film, a definite plus! 

Would I buy this product again?

I'm honestly not quite sure. Although the performance was stellar, my hair was much shorter than normal [because of the shrinkage].

Before Shrinkage...

After Shrinkage.....

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Strengthening Elixir:  

Target Stores, $9.99 - 4oz

Product Claims:

Our intensely moisturizing and penetrating all natural treatment helps repair damage and dry hair.

Ingredients:

Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Bu@er) Oil*, Argan Oil, Vegetable Squalene, Carrot Oil, Macadamia Nut Oil, Isopropyl Myristate, Avocado Oil, Castor Oil, Sebacic Acid, Sea Kelp Extract, EssenQal Oil Blend, Lonicera Caprifolium (Honeysuckle) Flower (and) Lonicera Japonica (Japanese Honeysuckle) Flower Extract, Tocopherol (Vitamin E). *Denotes Certified Organic Ingredient.

Product Review:

I usually don't purchase oils from haircare companies because I find that a lot of times they are cut with cheaper oils like Sunflower and Corn Oil, however I was impressed with the ingredient list in this product so I threw it in the basket. The only "non-natural" ingredient in this product is Isopropyl Myristate which really just cuts the greasy feel of the product, leaving more of a satiny finish. 

I sprayed this on my hair after my twists were complete and the immediate result was uber shiny hair. After about an hour or so of my hair absorbing the product, my hair was ultra soft, silky, and still very, very, shiny! - I like that I can get the benefits of Shea Butter without having to use it in "butter form"; for some reason Shea Butter just "sits" on top of my hair, leaving it more greasy than anything. The Shea Oil that is used in this elixir is better suited for my hair. Also, because of the lightness of this product, I would also recommend it to those that wear their hair pressed, or in roller-sets. This Elixir can help fortify your hair protecting it from heat damage and loss of elasticity from mechanical damage [combing, brushing, blow drying], it can also impart shine, softness and body. 

Would I purchase this product again?

Most definitely, this quickly earned a spot in my "staple product" list.

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Product Review: Jane Carter Natural Hold Spray Gel

 Picture taken 6 days after shampooing my hair. My hair is rarely ever this shiny that long after my styling session. 

Natural Hold Locking Spray [$9 - 8oz]

Jane Carter Solution 

I requested to review this product and the friendly team over at Jane Carter happily obliged. I was looking for something that would allow me to wear my twists for longer than two days without unraveling, whilst keeping them shiny and neat. I have tried all types of gels and lock puddings, and while they work well for delivering great definition, they fall short in the hold department [at least for me].  

Here are the product claims: 

Natural Hold Locking Spray is completely alcohol-free, so it will never, ever leave your hair dry and brittle. If you are looking for an amazing product that will re-hydrate your twists and locks and help you maintain the look of freshly twisted hair, Natural Hold Locking Spray is the one for you! Since it is alcohol-free, it is not harmful to your body or the planet.

Here are the ingredients: 

Purified Water, Anthemis Noblis Flower, Symphytum Officinal Leaf, Equisetum Arvense, Urtica Dioica (nettle), Rosemarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf, Humulus Lupulus (Hops) Lawsonia Inermis (Henna),PVP/VA Copolymer, Essential oils Fragrance, Glyceryl caprylate, methylisothiazolinone, (preservative) Condition & Sculpt Deionized Water, Anthemis Noblis Flower (Camomile), Symphytum Officinal Leaf (Comfrey), Equisetum Arvense (Horsetail), Urtica Dioica (Nettle), Rosemarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf, Humulus Lupulus (Hops), Lawsonia Inermis (Henna), Certified Organic Essential Oils: Lemon, Vanilla extract, Panthenol, Polyquarternum 11, Glyceryl caprylate, methylisothiazolinone, (preservative) 

My review:  A few of you commented and emailed me about the sheen of my hair in this post. I wanted to test this product out a bit more before spilling the beans. My hair was about 6 days old in those pics [I was wearing two strand twists, and took them down that day to wear a twist out], as well as the picture in this post [taken the same day].

This product did exactly what I wanted it to do. I was finally able to wear my twists for an entire week without the unraveled ends and halo of frizz amass my head. My hair was also shiny even 6 days after the initial styling session, which is pretty rare for me. For best results, I recommend spritzing your twists every two days, and making sure you sleep using a satin bonnet for better preservation of your style.

I didn't notice a sticky or tacky residue left behind which is a major plus for me. As nine times out of ten I will shelve a product that leaves a residue because it shortens the lifespan of my hairdo. I was also impressed that what I was putting on my hair was natural and suitable for daily use. Often we will find solutions for certain hair woes, yet the ingredients may damage our hair. This is definitely not the case for this product. 

Who would I recommend this product to? 

Those that wear two-strand twists, locs, and braids!

Would I purchase this product? 

Yes, I will purchase this product as long as I continue to wear my hair in two-strand twists.

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I did not purchase this product. This product was sent to me for review by Jane Carter Solution. In order to maintain the integrity of MTM, all samples sent by PR are for consideration only. This allows me to share with you products that work well for me and are worth spreading the word about. If you would like to read my entire policy regarding product reviews, please read the Editorial Policy by clicking {here}.

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Product Review: Carol's Daughter Hair Milk Line

Recently I had the opportunity to select some products from the Carol's Daughter line to review, so I decided to choose the Hair Milk Line, as well as the Tui Leave-In Conditioner.

My Thoughts On The Shampoo: There aren't too many shampoo's out there that can win my favor, but this one is definitely a keeper. Even though it is SLS free [which is a major plus], it still managed to get my hair clean without that squeaky, stripped feeling. The bonus? My hair was soft, shiny, and full of curls!
I had to take a picture of this because you know I am usually one to complain that I have zero curl definition; this definitely lived up to it's claim! The pics really don't do it justice!

My Thoughts On The Conditioner: This conditioner is THICK which is a good thing considering my hair laughs at any conditioner thinner than the consistency of yogurt. I used this without heat so I would truly know how this product worked; needless to say, I was pleasantly surprised. Usually any conditioner that works well without the assistance of heat is a friend of mine. My hair was soft, manageable, shiny, and the curls were poppin'!

My Thoughts On The Tui Leave-In: I used this before adding the hair milk curl booster, and it made detangling my hair a breeze. I separated my hair in about six sections, and lightly spritzed each section prior to detangling. I like that this is light enough to use for free flowing hair styles, as it doesn't leave a sticky, tacky residue; just soft shiny hair. This will definitely be a staple for wash n go's, refreshing twists, and daily moisturizing.

My Thoughts On The Hair Milk Curl Booster: I'm going to have to say this is my favorite out of the bunch. I was a little worried that the consistency of this wouldn't quench my curls, however it did that and then some. It managed to moisturize my hair without leaving a greasy residue, which I appreciate greatly. For once my curls were defined without cooing and prodding. Because my curls were so defined from using the products above, I decided to add a little bit of gel and wear my hair curly for the day!  

Here's the pic:[I swear I don't do my hair while in heavy eye make up, it was for a YouTube tut]

I suppose that giddy grin means I am happy with my new products...lol

A day later I decided to shampoo, condition, and moisturize my hair [with the same products]; I then twisted it using only the Tui Leave-In & Hair Milk Curl Booster as my stylers. I let it dry overnight, and untwisted my hair in the morning. Hello curl definition!  
This was the finished product:

Would I purchase these? Definitely. Any product that works to keep my hair soft, shiny, and free of frizz whilst enhancing curl definition is a keeper. That takes the 95% of the fuss out of doing my hair, as lack of definition, and moisture is usually what precedes a bad hair day.

A little bit about The Hair Milk Line [according to the website]:
Hair Milk Curl Perfecting Shampoo [$16 10oz]: A nourishing shampoo for the type of hair that needs it most...curls. Cuts frizz, gently removes dirt, oil and product build-up. Made with essential oils plus Vitamin A to help condition the scalp and keep moisture in. Gives curls what they need for that desired healthy, bouncy look.
Pro-vitamin B5 (Panthenol) – Helps minimize tangles and balance moisture
Vitamin A (Retinyl Palmitate) – Scalp conditioner that also protects from moisture loss. Plus protects from environmental damage.
Vitamin E (Tocopherol) – Conditioner that protects from environmental damage.
Essential Oils of Orange and Lemon
Paraben-Free, No Petroleum, Mineral Oil or Artificial Color
SLS/SLES/Sulfate-Free

Hair Milk Curl Perfecting Conditioner [$19 10oz]: The perfect companion to our nourishing, Curl Perfecting Shampoo. An indulgent, penetrating, moisture treatment that restores while supporting healthy-looking natural curls. Made with essential oils plus Pro-Vitamin B5 and Biotin to help replenish and strengthen hair with the natural nutrients it’s thirsting for, leaving your curls under control…which is where they belong.
Pro-vitamin B5 (Panthenol) – Helps minimize tangles and balance moisture
Biotin (Vitamin H): Strengthens hair follicles and helps promote healthy hair.
Vitamin A (Retinyl Palmitate) - A Vitamin A derivative known for its antioxidant properties and acts as a scalp conditioning agent. It also protects against moisture loss and environmental damage.
Vitamin E (Tocopherol) – An antioxidant and conditioning agent that protects hair from environmental damage.
Essential Oils of Orange and Lemon
Paraben-Free, No Petroleum, Mineral Oil or Artificial Color

Hair Milk Lite: The Curl Booster [$9-20 2oz - 10oz]: A curl’s best friend. A curl boosting, weightless lotion that tames frizz while defining your curls. Adapted from our famous original formula, Hair Milk Lite is made with essential oil of Lemon and Vitamin C for an extra light, moisturizing hold.
Apricot Kernel Oil - Increases moisture
Cocoa & Shea Butter - Conditions the scalp and hair
Vitamin C - Protects from environmental damage
Lemon Essential Oil - Gives this formula it’s energizing and uplifting fragrance
Paraben-Free, No Petroleum, Mineral Oil or Artificial Color

Tui Leave-In Conditioner [$12 8oz]: The Tui Leave-in-Conditioner is a delicious herbal blend that weightlessly conditions with hydrating ingredients while controlling fly-aways, unmanageable hair and restoring hair’s natural health. Used as a daily leave-in or revitalizing mist, Tui Leave-in Conditioner’s excellent detangling properties replenish essential moisture delivering a delightful cocktail of fruit fragrances!

• Replenishes essential moisture, controls fly-aways and unmanageable hair
• No harsh, moisture-stripping detergents
• Infused with lavender, calendula, chamomile, rose, marigold and larkspur flowers
• Paraben-free, No Petroleum, No Mineral Oil, No Artificial Color

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Be Huetiful Steamer Review

 My hair after the steam treatment!

This past Tuesday I received a hair steamer courtesy of Huetiful, and boy did it come right on time! I actually have a large steamer that I HARDLY use because it is just too cumbersome, and I just don't feel like pulling it out of the closet, assembling the thing, putting it back etc. - So needless to say, I was happy when this tabletop model came my way.

Product: Huetiful Steamer - Shipping is FREE!

Price: $114.95

Facial Attachment: $9.95

 steamer arrived carefully packaged!

 Here are the product claims:

The Huetiful Steamer is specifically designed for the unique needs of curly and wavy hair, restoring moisture 5x better than deep conditioners alone, opening up the cuticles of your hair to allow any conditioner you choose to penetrate better and work more effectively, bathing your hair with warm ozone enriched mist to replenish moisture lost from chemical treatments, and reducing breakage and split ends caused by dry hair.

Does this product live up to it's claims? 

Most definitely! My hair felt like butter after 10 minutes under the steamer. Detangling was much easier, and because of that, it cut my styling time in half.

Who can benefit from regular Steam Treatments?

Everyone! It doesn't matter if you are relaxed, natural, or transitioning. I definitely recommend this to anyone with highly-textured hair. Naturals will love this because it keeps hair soft, and eases detangling woes. Transitioner's will love this because it helps keep the new-growth soft, healthy, and manageable which is important when working with two different textures. Women that relax will also love this product because it works to keep issues with lack of moisture due to chemical processing under control.

Why I love it?

It's easy to put together, compact, and works just as well as my large hair steamer w/o all the fuss. This means I can enjoy steam treatments weekly, and even when I travel!

Setup is a breeze, as there are only 3 components you need to connect. The fourth component, pictured on the far left, is a facial steamer attachment!

To use connect the "wing-shaped" attachment to the base of the steamer...

slide the hood attachment onto the "wing-shaped attachment" until secure...

connect the nozzle from the "wing-attachment" to the hood attachment

 What I used:

I used a mixture of Honey + Olive Oil [1/4 cup Honey + 3 tablespoons Olive Oil], and I applied it to clean, wet hair. I also added a bit of Tea Tree, & Lemon Essential Oils to my water for added therapeutic benefits [I purchased them from Whole Foods].

To Use:

Apply your favorite hair conditioner, and sit under the steamer for up to 20 minutes!

Add water to the top of the component, filling until you reach the "max line" on the measuring cup included

Use the stopper, to cover the hole. 

Close the lid on the top of the compartment! Plug in, and in two minutes your steamer is ready for use!

Why I Fell In Love With Donna Marie Lock & Twist Pudding + Pics

 

Beauty By Donna Marie, Lock & Twist Pudding - 8oz - $10.00 

Still on the quest for the perfect ten of puddings and custards, I whipped out the Donna Marie Lock & Twist Pudding last night from my styling arsenal, and began to use it for my twistout. I have to say that I am quite pleased with the results, although I got a ton of shrinkage, my hair is defined, soft, shiny, and has an incredible amount of body.

Prior to twisting, I shampooed my hair with Neutrogena Clarifying Shampoo and followed up with KeraCare Hydrating Detangling Shampoo. I then deep conditioned my hair with Herbal Essence Hello Hydration mixed with a bit of honey for about 30minutes with heat.

I didn't use any secondary stylers with this product, because I wanted to see how it worked on it's own. The only other product I had in my hair was Paul Mitchell The Conditioner which is a leave-in. The consistency of Donna Marie Lock & Twist Pudding is like that of a custard-like product, however it gives you the hold that a gel would, without the residue and "crunchy" feeling. This also keeps your twists from unraveling which plays a major role in definition, and is also great if you wear your hair in two strand twists. I also loved the fact that I could separate the hair as much as I wanted without the frizzy, stiff, undefined look.

My only complaint about this product is it's availability; it took about a month for it to finally become available on the website [it was always sold out], and even now I am unsure as to when she will have more in stock [I don't even see the option to order, but I am sending her an email to get the 411]. Overall I am extremely pleased with this product, and will continue to alternate between this and the Komaza Coconut Hair Pudding.

I did about 20-25 twists all together - Notice the shrinkage, my hair is about neck length here. 

Other views of my hair:

Calling All Mixtresses: | The Bentonite Clay Body Wrap

 [I am in love w/head wraps; her skin isn't too shabby either - Source: The Color Is Black]

I finally received my package of Bentonite Clay in the mail, and I put it to use immediately! I try to do a FULL body wrap at least once a month to draw out toxins, improve skin tone, and keep my skin healthy, and glowing. It takes about five minutes to prepare the mixture, another five to apply it, and about an hour to dry. - Last night I diffused Lavender into the air, and meditated for an hour while my wrap dried. Perfect way to center self, while drawing out stressful energy, and pollutants.

Your mix should be spread about one inch thick on your skin, you can use your hands; or you can use a cake spatula like I do [hey; it's no frills over here].

Here is what you need:
1 cup of Bentonite Clay
3 tablespoons of Aloe Vera Gel
2 cups of Distilled Water
Large Crock Pot
5 thin towels or strips of old sheets
Plastic or Glass Bowl
Spatula

Here is what you do:
1. Boil your water, then remove it from heat; allowing it to stand for about 15 minutes, or until comfortable to the touch. Add the remainder of your ingredients, and mix well.
2. Drink plenty of water prior to applying the body wrap, this helps flush out toxins as well.
3. Take a warm/hot shower before applying the wrap, this will open up your pores.
4. Take 5 thin towels folded lengthwise [ones you don't mind using for this purpose], wet them, wring out the excess water, then stack them in a crock pot set to low. 
6. Apply the mixture to your skin
7. Remove the towels from the crockpot, wrap them around your body.
8. Read a book, listen to music, or meditate for an hour.
9. Rinse in warm water
10. Enjoy your freshly exfoliated skin!


Benefits of Body Wraps:
Tones & Tightens Skin
Purported to Help w/Cellulite
Improves Circulation
Detoxifies Skin

Helps Clear Up Acne/Blemishes
Relieves Joint Pain

Purported to Help w/Weight Loss <--Although I never noticed this.

My "Beauty Bag" Staples

I'm pretty much a no-fuss girl most of the times, but there are a few products that I can't leave the house without! Here they are in no particular order;

MAC Eyebrow Pencil in Spiked - Well groomed eyebrows can really make you look flawless and fresh-faced even sans makeup. Some people say your eyebrows should be the same color as your hair; I say maybe a shade darker for light-haired women, and a shade lighter for dark-haired women. My hair is jet black, but I never use a black eyebrow pencil, it is too harsh.When using an eyebrow pencil, make short soft strokes, then blend in with a firm eyebrow brush.

Smith's Rosebud Salve - I love this all purpose salve; I use it on my hands, elbows, cuticles, arms, and of course on my lips. It has a slight "rosy" scent which I love. A tin lasts me about 8 months to a year!

Benefit Bad Gal Mascara - This is the ultimate day time go-to mascara! It makes my lashes thick, and dark without giving me tarantula eyes. In fact I dare to say that it doesn't even look like I am wearing mascara when I use this. I use Bad Gal Mascara to make my eyes pop [along with defining my brows] on those days I am makeup free.

Makeup Forever Aqua Eyes - Pretty much the best darn eyeliner I have used to date. It goes on smooth, and intense. And it's definitely worth it's weight in gold. After shelling out $17.00 for an eye pencil I was expecting waterproof, intense, long lasting color; and that is exactly what I got.

MAC Mineralize Skinfinish - I got everyone I know hooked on this stuff. I use this on the days I don't want to wear foundation, and I want a nice glow. I would say this offers low coverage for pores and blemishes, and offers a soft focus matte finish. If I had to pick ONE piece of makeup to take with me on a deserted island; this would definitely be it.

MAC Select Coverup - I swear by this stuff, before I used it solely underneath my eyes. Now, I use it over every blemish! I dab this magic potion over any dark spot, and uneven area on my skin prior to applying my foundation. The result is an even palette ensuring a flawless finish once I apply my foundation. I also apply it around my mouth for making my red lips pop, and also around my eyebrows to enhance the arch.
Beauty Blender - I profess my love to my Beauty Blender at least once a week, because that is how often I use it. If you are looking for a product that gives you a flawless, airbrushed-like application; this is your best bet. I lightly wet it, then dip it in foundation and apply the makeup to my face using a "stippling" like motion.

I am always looking for the next best beauty product, what are some of your staples?
Products Mentioned In This Post:
MAC Eyebrow Pencil
Smith's Rosebud Salve
Makeup Forever Aqua Eyes
MAC Mineralize Skinfinish
MAC Select Coverup
Beauty Blender

Quick Pictorial- The Red Lippie

I receive quite a few emails and comments about my red lipstick, so I thought I would dedicate this post to my favorite red lipstick of all time; Ruby Woo by MAC. Here's a quick little pictorial to show you how I apply my lip-color.

[1] Line lip with lip-liner that is brighter than the lipstick you are using. This will make the lipstick P O P more. I am using REDD by MAC.

[2] Fill in your lips w/your lipstick of choice; mine is Ruby Woo [of course] - Don't worry about getting it perfect; you can fill in any areas w/your pencil/lip-color later.

[3] I apply my concealer w/a stiff, flat brush. I use NW45 concealer, and I pat it around the lip area; very close to the lip line.

Be sure and get as close to the lip-line as possible! This will make the color pop even more! Applying it with a brush is much better than applying the concealer w/your fingertips [as far as accuracy is concerned].

That's really all there is to it folks! The addition of the brighter lip liner, and concealer really makes those lips pop; even in darker skin tones like mine!