Curlformers: The Answer To Frizz and Lack Of Definition or A Nuisance?

I've been eyeing (and side-eyeing) Curlformers for the better part of a year. I have not purchased them for several reasons. One being the high cost, the number of Curlformers that you need to put in your hair to achieve the desired look and the thought of having to put them in myself. Having my arms up in the air for a long period time is a definite no-no for me.

Curlformer Headitis

 The Curlformers website claims, "Whether your hair is natural, relaxed, transitioning, textured, wavy, kinky, curly, long or short, a full head of defined glossy curls can be yours." 

I suppose the two biggest draws and/or benefits of a product like this are:
A. Escape from the dreaded heat damage that all curlies fear and 
B. Smoothing of frizz and definition of curl.

I've watched quite a few YouTube video tutorials and have read many hair blog articles on this product. I have seen reviews of Curlformers used on a variety of different types of hair, and my thoughts on this product are still undecided. Many have had problems from hair not drying all the way (even after many hours) unless they going under a dryer (heat) and sets not lasting for more than a day after all that effort.

What if after removing them I look like this (points upward) what if I want to comb them out so I don't look like an 8 year old at her first dance recital? Will I be left with a big ole' frizzy, non-defined mess if I comb the set through? Help me out here.





Comes in several lengths and diameters: 

For short hair - up to 8 inches (20cm) long:  Short

For medium-length hair - up to 14 inches (35cm) Long

For long hair - up to 22 inches (55cm) Extra Long

Extra Long Hair - up to 39 inches (75cm) long: Super Long 

To the right are some examples of the results you should expect according to the website.
Looks pretty good, right?
But I guess anytime you have someone doing your hair that can see your head from all angles, you already have an advantage.



Here's a video on how to sleep in them. Apparently this young lady sleeps on her back all night. LOL! If I were to attempt sleeping in these, there would be Curlformers EVERYWHERE (under the bed, by the tv, in the bathroom) when I work up. If I was lucky there might be one or two still left in my head. :-) I'm still on the fence. So please share your experiences, pro/cons tips, etc. and let me know if you have tried Curlformers.

UPDATE:  I went ahead and purchased two 40 each packs from Amazon. Total cost with shipping was $37.85.

These are replicas, but have been reported to work the same as the pricey version. 

It was suggested that that the styling hook from Curlformers be used, as it is sturdier and better to work with. 

It was $3.49 with free shipping, so I order one.

My first Curlformer set!! Took me a while, but it seems I have them it correct. Will remove before I go to bed. :-)

Comparison & Length Check

Besides the apprehension about my upcoming hair trim, I am pleased overall at the progress I've made from my self inflicted BC in 4/09, to the one I had in the salon on 6/09 to now 02/10. I've not had any form of heat on my curly locks.  I'm really not all that anxious to straighten my hair as some parts are barely wavy and I am extremely worried that the curl will not come back. Although I have specific goals for my hair, I'm really enjoying my hair journey and enjoying all the stages and learning process.  I've sold some of my hair tea bags from my Etsy shop and my next goal is to add an oil and a deep condish to the the inventory (working on formulations). :-) 

As I mentioned before, this length and cut on Alicia Keys is what I'm looking at as a hair style goal.

This was my hair relaxed and long.  It was mid back in length and I mostly wore it in two pig tails. LOL!

Product Review: Aveeno Nourish + Moisturize Conditioner

I'd been seeing references both on line and on the beauty blogs I read about Aveeno Nourish + Moisturize conditioner.  I've used Aveeno products in the past and my current face wash is even the gentle oatmeal liquid cleanser from their baby line.  I made a mental note to pick up a bottle after looking on line at the ingredients.  The third ingredient is Behentrimonium Methosulfate - Naturally derived, but not all natural. It emulsifies and thickens the conditioner. Also aids in static control and comb ability. This is what makes the conditioner creamy and detangling.  Behentrimonium methosulfate is the mildest hair-detangling ingredient available. It is made from non-genetically modified rapeseed oil. This scientifically sophisticated ingredient is renowned for its superior detangling ability, without causing build-up on the hair.

Since my other favorite atm condish - HE Hello Hydration and has the cheaper version behentrimonium chloride ingredient, I was expecting it to be thicker and creamer.  The consistency is liquidy and the scent is pretty much non-existent.  I smoothed it on my hair passed my head under the shower quickly and "lathered" to emulsify, shower capped it and finished my shower.  I blot it dry with either a t-shirt or one of my curl cloths and seal with my Jessiecurl Deep Conditioner. Results in the photo.  I like the conditioner as it does create great curl definition and smooths frizz. 

I've styled today by raking hair back with my fingers while wet and securing with a cute Goody double headband.

Have You Tried? - Spoolies!!

Unlike conventional hair rollers, which are hard and unforgiving, these tried-and-true hair spools or "Spoolies" are made of soft, pliable plastic so you can leave them in overnight and still get a good night’s sleep. Simply wrap your hair around the center of the spool and fold over the large end to secure. Small spools measure 1" long and create ½" curls. Large spools are approx. 3¼" long. 24 spools per pack.
•No need to remove before going to bed
•Made of soft plastic
•No annoying pins to fuss with
•Available in 2 sizes

I'm thinking to order these in the large size and try them out on a wet or damp hair set and see what happens.  Just something new to maybe add into rotation. Apparently the vintage ones are rubber and the "newer" version is a cheap PVC plastic.  The original rubber ones can be pre-ordered on the spoolies website.

Hair Idol!! - T'Keyah Crystal Keymáh

T'Keyah Crystal Keymáh (born Crystal Walker October 13, 1962) is an American actress, writer, director, producer, singer, and comedian. In addition to her status as an original cast member of the FOX sketch comedy series In Living Color, she is perhaps best known for her roles as Erica Lucas on the CBS sitcom Cosby, and as Tanya Baxter on the Disney Channel sitcom That's So Raven.

This woman is 47?!?!?!  A true example of  "Black Don't Crack."  Wow! Gorg!  THIS is what I aspire to for my locks.  Think I can do it by this time next year?  :-)

Hello! Hello! Hello!!!

After much delay deciding what to call this blog, which will focus on my natural hair journey, my product junkism, my love for all things fashion and healthy lifestyle - here it is! I present....Elan Tresses! <3