Product Review: L'Oreal Colour Riche Extraordinaire Lip Color, 106 Fuchsia Orchestra

L'ORÉAL

Colour Riche Extraordinary Lip Color

Fuchsia Orchestra

$9.99

This creamy lip gloss caught my eye recently and I made a mental note to pick up a tube of Fuchsia Orchestra. The buttery texture, highly pigmented color and noted staying power had me intrigued.

I can happily report that it has more than lived up to the hype it has received.  The texture is smooth and it blends well if you want to put another color on top or underneath it. It has a light, sweet fruity scent.

L'oreal states it's extraordinare lip color transforms lips from ordinary to extraordinary. Color is richer, lip surface is smoother and shine is magnified. 

Formulated with precious micro-oils and rich color pigments, Extraordinaire provides the ideal balance of color and care for perfect lips. The unique soft-touch doe-foot sponge applicator allows for a silky-smooth, gliding application.

  Really lasts through drinking and/or eating, as well. After the shine is gone the color stays as a nice tint.

 There are many great shades available and trendy brights as well. This feels very moisturizing, and because of that your lips appear more full. The case is just beautiful! Sleek and expensive looking. I highly recommend picking one or three up!

Product Review: Kate Somerville's 'ExfoliKate®' Intensive Exfoliating Treatment

    I purchased the smallest size of this product, .05 oz., due to the great reviews and it being proclaimed to be "The next best thing to seeing Kate in the clinic!"  The fruit enzymes in this exfoliant clarifies the skin by removing dead cells and eliminating bacteria. This is highly effective in combating acne, including stubborn blackheads. It also claims to polish the skin, revealing a smooth, glowing complexion. 

    I've used it three times so far and it seems to be a good, not great though, treatment to add to smoothness and glow of the skin. I was pretty surprised when I opened to squeeze out to apply the first time and found it a deep emerald green color! It also had quite a prominent smell of cinnamon, which I did note in the ingredients, but it was stronger than expected. Imagine opening a stick of Big Red chewing gum. That's exactly what it smells like.

    The first time I applied, I did my regular morning face cleaning with my Clairsonic and rinsed with a very warm washcloth leaving the skin moist. I massaged a small amount of the product into my skin briefly, let it sit for a minute and rinsed off. I noticed a slight increase in smoothness and glow, but nothing to rave about.  

    The second time I used I decided to apply the same way, but use more of the product and spend a minute or so massaging it into the skin. I then got in the shower letting the mask stay on until I rinsed it off last thing before leaving the shower.  That process appeared to yield a greater result and I will continue to use twice a week until I finish the tube.  I then will assess if I will repurchase or not.  It is quite pricey for the size and I am not too fond of the cinnamon smell, but I might give the small size  ($22.00) another go when I finish this tube.

Caveat: Some users (not many) have noted burning and/or redness, itching, etc. after using this mask. I suspect an allergic reaction to one or more of the ingredients. I had no issue at all with it, but suggest a patch test before using on your face.

Ingredients

Water/Aqua/Eau, Lactic Acid, Polyethylene, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Cetearyl Alcohol, Pectin, Carica Papaya (Papaya) Fruit, Lactobacillus Pumpkin Ferment Extract, Ceteareth-20, Cetyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate, Dehydroxanthan Gum, PEG-100 Stearate, Salicylic Acid, SD Alcohol 40-B, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil, Sorbic Acid, Cinnamomum Cassia Leaf Oil, Honey (Mel), Acetic Acid, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Potassium Sorbate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Retinyl Palmitate, Bromelain, Papain, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Phenoxyethanol, Geranium Maculatum Oil, Aniba Rosaeodora (Rosewood) Wood Oil, Pogostemon Cablin Oil, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Oil, Linalool, Limonene, Cinnamal, Beta-Carotene (CI 75130), Chlorophyllin-Copper Complex (CI 75810).
Ingredients are subject to change at the manufacturer's discretion. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.

Product Review: Kiehl's Clearly Corrective' Dark Spot Solution Serum

• Kiehl's Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution is a fast-acting serum that evens skin tone and diminishes dark spots and skin discoloration to impart overall radiance and luminosity to the skin. I purchased my second 1 fl oz. bottle the second week in December. I used this product (same size bottle) for two months in the spring and was impressed with the results. This serum is liquid, almost water like. A small amount from the dropper smooths into the face and neck with ease. I apply on damp skin for even more of a slip and wait 2-3 minutes while it absorbs before applying any other products. It has a  very subtle, pleasant fragrance. I tend to stay away from face products with fragrance added. One less irritant to worry about. It claims to have a special proprietary formulated stable vitamin c as one of the ingredients. Hence the clear bottle instead of an opaque one typical of products containing vitamin c. I've read quite a few reviews on this product on various shopping sites and blogs. I would say it has a 60% high rating/very satisfied rating, 20% middle of the road/okay and 20%-it did nothing for me. My personal experience with this product is smoother, glowy skin, smaller pores and good reduction/blending of any dark spots. Priced at $49.50 for the 1 fl oz bottle, it is not cheap, but I think the results are worth the price. I intend to continue using as the results are cumulative according to long term users.
  
  Features and benefits:
  - In as little as two weeks, 55% of women clinically demonstrated a significant reduction in dark-spot intensity.
  - In four weeks, 69% of women clinically demonstrated a continued reduction in dark spots and 73% of women showed a significant reduction in acne scarring. Reduction in other skin discolorations was clinically evident among 69% of women.
  - In eight weeks, 87% of women clinically demonstrated more uniform skin tone to deliver breakthrough clarity.
  - With continued daily usage, Clearly Corrective helps prevent the formation of future dark spots and other skin discolorations.
  - Free of silicones, parabens, fragrance, colorants and optical diffusers.

• Ingredients

  Aqua / Water, Propylene Glycol, Glycerin, Alcohol Denat., Peg/Ppg/Polybutylene Glycol-8/5/3 Glycerin, Hydroxypropyl Tetrahydropyrantriol, 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, Ppg-6-Decyltetradeceth-30, Phenoxyethanol, Salicylic Acid, Xanthan Gum, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Potassium Hydroxide, Citric Acid, Sodium Citrate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Lavandula Angustifolia Oil / Lavender Oil, Disodium Edta, Linalool, Citrus Tachibana / Citrus Aurantium Tachibana Peel Extract, Paeonia Suffruticosa Extract / Paeonia Suffruticosa Root Extract. 

Product Review: BENEFIT COSMETICS Watt's Up! - luminous champagne

BENEFIT COSMETICS Watt's Up! - luminous champagne - $30.00

Using a highlighter can be a great thing or a glittery horror show depending on where you apply and blending techniques.  This cream-to-powder soft-focus highlighter turns up the wattage with a delicate, gorgeous champagne glow. I received this highlighter in my Sephora birthday box and have used it a few times.  It comes in one color which is suitable for all skin tones.

It goes on smoothly and leaves a light luminous sheen that is just enough added glam. Apply it to cheeks, brow bones and any of the other areas noted in this handy chart below, then blend with the soft-glow blender or your finger for your perfect gleam. It can be applied solo or over existing makeup.

Product Review: Talika Skin Retouch

'Skin Retouch®' Face, Hands & Neck Instant Retouch Fluid - $50.00

An invisible foundation, Skin Retouch was developed to help erase fine lines and wrinkles, minimize pores, even out skin tone, diminish redness and discoloration as well as provide a skin smoothing and mattifying effect that lasts all day long.

Skin Retouch uses intelligent, smart pigments that work on all skin tones to cover imperfections and provide a bright, luminous finish as well as a unique, stretch texture technology that fills in fine lines and wrinkles allowing skin to appear flawless and smooth. Consumer Results show that after using Skin Retouch volunteers noticed a reduction in pore size-86%, skin appeared smoother -85%, skin looked matte - 79% and 72% agreed that their skin looked less tired. 

I received a sample packet of this product with another order. It has come across my searches for something similar a few times, but I did not want to purchase a tube to try given my experiences with a similar product. 

This product is designed to be applied with the flat, plastic, spatula like applicator on the end of the full size using outward strokes from the center of the face. It is advised not to apply with fingers as it will pill and you will have little with particles all over your face. The sample, however, does not come with the applicator, so I used my fingers. 

It worked okay, but not anywhere near what I was expecting. It does not play well with other make up applied over it, so this would be something you would probably use alone.  Would I purchase a full size, probably not. But if you have the opportunity to try a sample, do try it and see if it works for you.

Product Reviews & Recommendation: Where'd You Get Those Peepers!!

SmartFX SmartLash Eyelash Enhancer 80% off at DermStore $24.95

They say the eyes are the mirror to the soul and our lashes are the frame. Here is my regimen plus tips to keep your lashes healthy and long lush.


First up, SmartLash Eyelash Enhancer. I've been using lashline serum consistently for about a year now. My eyelash length has doubled. The photo in their ad is not an exaggeration (at least not for me).
I already have pretty good lashes, but this really did the job.  With mascara, my lashes look as good or better than extensions. I apply to both upper and lower lashes like a liquid eyeliner. This is a liquid, so I take care to keep it from getting into my eyes as it will burn a bit. I have a fan in the bathroom to fan my eyes to dry them quickly.

Ardell Brow and Lash Growth Accelerator $2.99

I enhance this with Ardell's Brow and Lash Accelerator Treatment Gel. Fortified with ingredients like castor oil and wheat protein to strengthen the lashes, it is the perfect boost to increase results of the serum. It has a gel like consistency.
I apply with the mascara brush it comes with to both bottom and top lashes as well as swipe the eyebrows.

I apply both in the evening a few hours before bed to give them time to penetrate into the areas before I hit the pillow to sleep.

CoverGirl LashBlast Volume Mascara, Very Black 800 $7.79

Now to show off all your hard work. :-)  I've tried so many mascaras, both high end and low end and the one I keep coming back to is CoverGirl LashBlast Volume Mascara. It lengthens and adds volume, applies without clumping and is easy on the eyes and easy to remove. A winning combo for a contact lens wearer and allergy sufferer like myself.

You can also try this natural lash lengthening recipe in one of your old, clean mascara wands.  You can also purchase empty new ones here.

What is your preferred method of lash enhancement?

Product Review: NYX Cosmetics Picks

Cosmetics not need be expensive to provide fantastic results and the NYX line is one that effectively drives home that concept. Over the last couple of years, I've tried quite a few of the selections from this line and have found them to be on par with many of the more well known, higher priced lines. The pencils and the lip products in particular are my favorites. I recommend trying out the following items:

Price: $5.00

 NYX Butter Lip Gloss in Peach Cobbler (Red-Orange)
Buttery soft and silky smooth, Butter Lip Gloss tastes as sweet as a sugar cookie—and makes your lips look downright luscious. Swipe it on alone or over your favorite lipstick for creamy sheer to medium coverage that melts onto your lips and is never sticky.

* Buttery cream formula that sets to a gorgeous finish

* Durable, long-lasting and moisturizing too!

* Cruelty-free

Price: $3.50

NYX Side On Eye Liner Pencil in White
A great way to highlight and focus attention to the eye is to line the waterline with a white liner.

* Silky soft pencil delivers robust color to line your eyes

* Highly-pigmented smudge-free formula is like liquid liner without the mess!

Price: $4.50

NYX Wonder pencil in Deep
The essential pencil that fulfills all of your beauty needs. Conquer 3 critical make-up tasks with one product: CONCEAL flaws and blemishes with creamy precision; LINE your lips against lipstick bleeding and fading; and BRIGHTEN your eyes along the water line. No wonder it's called a Wonder Pencil!! 

* The multi-tasking concealer/brightener

* Perfect for covering up blemishes

* Use as an eyeliner to brighten up your eyes

* Can even be used as a lip liner to keep your favorite lipstick from

 feathering!

* Long-lasting smooth velvety formula

Product Reviews: L'oreal Advanced Haircare Total Repair 5 Damage Erasing Balm and Advanced Haircare Power Moisture Moisture Rush Mask

This June marked my 5 year anniversary of going natural. Even though I have learned much about my hair, I find that in a lot of ways, caring for natural hair is just as tedious as dealing with relaxed hair. Both have it's pros and cons. Although I will never go back to relaxed hair, I can say I have done some reading on keratin treatments and Japanese straightening options and decided the risks outweigh the benefits. At least for me. As a compromise, I will do an occasional roller set without the suck the life out of your hair blow dry and flat iron favored by the Dominican salons.

I've been really terrible with keeping up with damage control on my hair this year. A couple of trips to my local Dominican hair salon left me with straight silky hair for a few days, but 4-5 inches on the ends of my hair failed to revert back and are slightly wavy at best. I've decided to cut them off to shoulder length. 

Since early spring I've neglected to have a steady schedule when it comes to doing deep conditioning treatments. I've made a commitment to put a stop to this by adding these two quick deep conditioners to my 5-7 day wash routine. After I shampoo, de-tangle with a regular conditioner and rinse, I apply either one, plastic cap and complete my shower routine (5-10 mins.) 

I rinse out with cool water and add a small amount of my leave in of choice and replace the plastic cap until I am ready to blot dry, apply any other leave in and let air dry.

Conditioner number 1, Total Repair 5 Damage Erasing Balm is a rinse-out reconstructing balm that claims it repairs up to one year of damage in 1 use. Both powerful and luxurious, the balm instantly repairs the 5 signs of damage – split ends, weakness, roughness, dullness, and dehydration. I've used this one 4 times and it does appear to be improving the state of my hair.

Conditioner number 2, Power Moisture Rush Mask instantly infuses moisture into every strand. This mask, with its light and luxurious gel-like texture, transforms even dry, dehydrated hair into silky, soft and manageable strands. It is clinically tested to add 10 times more moisture to your hair. I do notice my hair seems to drink this up and I have to apply a bit more to both sides before plastic capping and that is a good thing. 

Of course I will also do my Nupur Henna/Neutrogena Conditioning/color regime every 4-5 weeks. That also helps with smoothing frizzies and making my hair look better. 

Product Review: Beautiful Textures

I've been using four of the products from the Beautiful Textures line for several months now. They have been a reliable, inexpensive staple in my hair care arsenal.  First up, the tangle taming moisturizing shampoo. Enriched with Aloe Vera, Coconut, Olive, Soy, Argan Oil, Shea and Mango Butter, it smells amazing! It's moisturizing and de-tangling abilities are a 6 on a scale of 1-10 for me.

My hair tends to be porous and dry, so for my hair needs, I do not use this every time I shampoo, but rotate it with other shampoos or co-wash.  I used to water down my shampoos with Evian and Grapeseed oil.  I have not been doing this since earlier in the year, but with the colder, winter months coming in, I will probably start again. The product line suggest adding a small amount of Rapid Repair Curly Conditioner to the Tangle Taming Shampoo in the palm of your hand, mix together. I've never tried this, so I will give it a try and see how it stacks up.

Another option for a low-foam, natural oil rich cleanser, mix a small amount of Moisture Butter Whipped Curl Crème into the Tangle Taming Shampoo in the palm of your hand. Work the shampoo through your hair from roots to ends while finger combing to remove tangles.

The Rapid Repair Curly Conditioner is basically the same product as the Leave-In Tangle Taming Conditioner except thicker, therefore better to use as a deep conditioner. Ingredients include: Aloe Vera, Coconut, Olive, Soy, Argan Oil, Shea and Mango Butter. This product also smells wonderful, like mango, and for my hair is best used as a 30 minutes with conditioning cap, covered by a heat cap;cooled then rinsed. I've found when I left it on overnight, it made my hair feel a little dry and protein overload-ish. Product touts benefits such as  to restore hair’s natural moisture balance, control damage from transitioning, heat, and color treated hair, and restore elasticity to prevent breakage. This can also be used as a leave in in lieu of the more liquid tangle taming leave-in conditioner. I prefer the latter for my hair, but some might do better with this one.

I've had my best experience from this line with The Tangle Taming Leave-in Conditioner. I used this pretty much daily after re-wetting my hair with water as a daily moisturizer. It also is great for laying down my unruly edges! It sinks into my hair and doesn't sit on the surface or dry my hair out once the water evaporates. I always have a bottle in my closet and have even turned my Mom on to it and have taken a small bottle to my Grandma!

I also purchased a bottle of the Shine & Silken Growth Oil the first time I purchased the other products. It is much smaller than the other bottles, 6 oz., but that is typical for oils.   I've added it to my henna mix and to deep conditioner and to pre-poo treatments. It also smells fantastic, but is a little heavy for my hair to use as a leave-in. I would recommend it for someone who sometimes blow dries and flat irons. 

For additional heat protection and lighter feel, add a few drops of Curly to Straight Silkener to the Shine & Silken Oil. mix together in the palm of hand and apply. From other reviews I've read, it's a pretty good heat protection and finishes with a nice high gloss shine with flat ironed hair.

On a lighter note, because you know how I love to clown. LOL!  Check out the website "instructional videos" complete with a "funky base line" music in the background. Because nothing says good hair care like a funky base line. :-0

http://www.beautifultextures.com/video-testimonials.html

 I kept waiting for some visuals......that never came. Yes, that's right, the instructional videos are all VERBAL!  

I guess for those who can't read. At any rate, Beautiful Textures staff, if you are reading this, you might want to do that whole thing over with someone ACTUALLY DOING what the lady on the instruction video is talking about.  

Product Review: Clinque CC Cream

Clinique Moisture Surge CC Cream in Deep and Medium Deep

With the fall and winter months looming ahead, I have been thinking about how I will transition my skin care routine. I've pretty much only been wearing my 

Neutrogena Healthy Defense Daily Moisturizer SPF 50 with Helioplex

with the Stila Bronzing Tinted Moisturizer over it for most of the summer.  Both are very light weight, great ingredients, don't cause breakouts or irritations and adds light coverage and a wonderful summery glow hue to my summer tan. 

I've tried samples of various BB creams over the past year and have not really liked any of them because of either lack of color range, fragrance or just not the right texture/coverage. Clinque has always been pretty good for me in the past, I used to wear several of their foundations and used the skin care 3 package in high school without any problems. When I saw they came out with a CC cream (one upping you BB's) I had to give it a shot.

I went to Macy's and the lovely girl at the Clinque cosmetic counter was just great. She really took her time to go over the technology behind the CC cream, applied and match several different colors of the 8 available, and provided me with generous samples of the two colors above to take home to try and/or blend. I told her I tend to oxidize (darken down) as the day goes on with foundations, so I tend to go a bit lighter than I normally would. We were also working with my summer tan face, so when the fall rolls around, my face will be lighter, so I might need to revisit and try the shade above med deep.

This CC cream boast to be one simple step for glowing skin: hydrates, perfects, protects. Lightweight formula instantly color corrects a range of complexion concerns. In seconds, you look like the picture of health. Brightens dullness, sallowness. Diminishes redness. That gray look on darker skin tones? CC gets it glowing. Oil-free hydration and sunscreen mean a more flawless look tomorrow, too. Each versatile shade is appropriate for a range of skin tones and undertones.  The product is also fragrance free, which is great. I tend to avoid products with added fragrance as they tend to cause problems with my skin.

• How to use: Mornings, apply to clean skin after cleansing and any treatment serums. Smooth evenly over entire face, or just to areas of concern. Wear alone or under foundation.
• Can also be worn over your favorite moisturizer (a great option for drier skins).

I've worn a few times and so far so good. I do think I will still need a concealer for my eye area, but all in all it is a great look, light weight, everyday go cream.

My Current Leave In and Detangler

Yeah, yeah, yeah...I know it's been quite some time and I've neglected my poor blog to death, but I am going to make a concerted effort to start posting again.  Let's start with what I am currently using as my de-tangler/leave-in.

 The TRESemmé Naturals Nourishing Moisture Conditioner, with natural aloe vera extract and avocado oil, moisturizes hair to help protect from damage and breakage. This natural conditioner has no dyes, is hypoallergenic, silicone-free and safe for color treated hair.

I've used several different types of TRESemme conditioners all through my hair journey and some of them have served me well and some have not. This one I particularly like, though.

It leaves a nice slip to the hair that is great for quick de-tangling in the shower and a small amount used as a leave in dries on my hair pretty quickly, doesn't weigh it down and gives me a decent amount of definition.

I also add a bit of Beautiful Textures Leave-In Conditioner over top of the TRESemme and to the ends. It has a little bit of oils in it that help with sealing the moisture in.  I also use this as a daily re-moisturizer after I thoroughly spritz my hair with bottled Evian water.

I usually will put my hair in a bun with a...wait for it...scrunchie!! " I know, right? Anyway, it's convenient and it works. :-)  

My next post I'll get into more detail about my other currently used products and how a synopsis on where I am at 5 years post natural. Ciao for now!

Product Review: Phytomist Instant Hydrating Conditioner

I got a sample of this as part of a Phyto Sephora VIP gift box featuring this product,  and I must say I am very happy with it's moisturizing properties and i have been spritzing on my length with concentration on the ends when I braid out at night.  I have been sealing with a mixture of Cameilla oil and Castor oil and so far so good. I've gotten up to four good days of braid outs with this method which is great! You can read more reviews on this product here.

What it is:
A weightless leave-in conditioner that instantly detangles, boosts radiance, and protects color.

What it does:
With mist of this spray-on conditioner, color-treated hair's moisture levels and brilliance are restored. Sunflower extract prevents color from fading by protecting hair against oxidation. Lotus flower hydrates and softens while red algae protects hair from environmental stresses.

What it is formulated WITHOUT:
- Parabens
- Sulfates
- Synthetic Dyes
- Petrochemicals
- Phthalates

What else you need to know:
This formula works as a daily treatment and suits all hair types and textures.

Hair Updates and New Products - 11.20.10

I did my monthly henna treatment today and I think I just might have nailed down a routine (finally) on how to do it with consistent results. I'm mixing about 6 tablespoons of henna with a strong tea of various things such as horsetail herbs, green tea, marshmallow root and let color develop over night. I added around a tablespoon and a half of rosemary infused avacado oil right before applying.

To minimize the dryness that can result from henna use, I'm only painting the roots and scalp with a color brush the full strength mixture, then I mix the remaining 2 tablespoons into a thick deep conditioner to be applied to the rest of the hair.  I plastic cap and sit under my heat cap for 2 hours or so and then 2 without heat, rinse in tub, co-wash in shower with Aussie Moist and I'm done!

I tried out some new products this time around - Aveda's Be Curly and Kinky Curly's Knot today. I put in Kinky Curly first and then Be Curly over it. Not sure I like both together so I will have to try them alone. I will say that Be Curly does what it says. I did notice more curl definition and curl in general as my hair dried.

Product Review: Say Yes To Yes To Carrots!

I have a new favorite leave-in with Yes To Carrots. I had been eyeing this one for a little while and have read extremely positive reviews on it, so I made a mental note to pick on up to go on rotation as I cleaned up/finished my existing bottles.

First off I love the smell. It is floral yet slightly nutty if that makes any sense. lol! I do find it to be "uplifting" in an aromatherapy sense I guess you could say.

It dries with no residue and a great shine and softness. I have been just using this as my leave in and not topping with JessiCurl as I have done in the past. After it is completely dry I might scrunch through a teaspoon of organic coconut oil for additional shine, but that's it. I've gotten up to day 3 hair with this method which is great. Since my hair is getting longer by the day, I am looking at ways to stretch my days out as much as possible.

I'm going to do a roller set the second week of November and try to go with that a week and see how that works out with helping to combat the "winter dryness" I am not looking forward to dealing with. Grrrr!

Ingredients In Yes To Carrots Condtioner (99.8% Natural and Paraben Free)

Water (Aqua), Dead Sea Water (Maris Aqua), Silt (Maris Limus), Magnesium Chloride, Chamomila Recutita (Chamomile) Extract, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Oil, Olea Europaea (Olive) Oil, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Calendula Officinalis Oil, Daucus Carota (Carrot) Seed Oil, Daucus Carota (Carrot) Juice, Cucurbita Pepo (Pumpkin) Juice, Ipomoera Batatas (Sweet Potato) Extract, Cucumis Melo (Melon) Extract, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Extract, Honey (Mel) Extract, Fragrance (Parfum), Dimethicone, Triticum Vulgare (Wheat Germ) Oil, Imidazolidinyl Urea, Cetrimonium Chloride, Punica Granatum (Pomegranate) Peel Extract.

Product Review - Pantene Curly Hair Series Deep Moisturising Treatment

I've been pretty much sticking to my regulars when I do my deep condishes, I've been slacking off a bit as of late, I'll admit, but have made a commitment to do once a week from now through September. It appears that in it's natural state I get a good amount of growth during the summer months. This is only my second natural summer, though, so we will have to see. I took a look at my deep condish arsenal and saw that it was time to do a re-stock.  Pantene has always had pretty good condtioners and shampoos, and I have used them off and on through the years while my hair was relaxed.  What caught my attention with this paticular formula is that is specifically has been formulated for Curly Hair. At around $7.00US I decided to pick one up and try it out.
Most definitely a keeper!!  Creamy without feeling overly heavy on the hair, lightly floral in scent with a slight undertone of coconuts, it goes on smooth and easily distributes through the hair.  I bagged and tagged my hair (Beanie speak for plastic cap and scarf, LOL!) overnight after doing about 30 mins. under the heat cap and rinsed out the next morning.  Rinsed out clean to moisturized, smooth, silky and defined tresses.
 I am wondering how this stuff might work as a leave in mixed with say HH Hello Hydration? Will have to see.  This is one of a new series released just this May and I will be sure to pick up a bottle of their Light Conditioning Detangler, as it gets high marks across the board too according to other websites.
Definitely recommend this one and it goes along side the Neautrogena Deep Treatment as one of my staple low priced Deep Condishes.

Product Review - Fantasia IC Hair Polisher Styling Gel

I've had a jar of Fantasia IC Hair Polisher Styling Gel sitting in my closet for a few months now. I've never really tried it because I've always used my conditioner for leave in.  One thing I've always hated is the fly aways and the sometimes degree of shrinkage I would get with the conditioners as leave ins.  So I decided to try something new the other day.  To completely rinse out the conditioner and then rake through my hair some of the gel, shower cap and then blot ends with t-shirt after getting dressed.  First off, extreme definition and SHINE!
I left it alone until it it was mostly dry and then I broke up a few of the clumped curls on my ends.  Also, the first day the shrinkage was greatly reduced while drying. Second day has a bit more, but still great definition, shiny the works.  I spritzed a little water on my edges and put a little gel to smooth them down and it worked like magic.
The biggest thing for me is the great result on eradicating those ugly frizzies and fly aways!  Although I probably will still use my trusty conditioner as leave in regularly, I will definitely be giving air time to the gel.

Will You Visit The New Miss Jessie's Location in NYC?

Miss Jessie's is said to have an amazing new deep conditioner, Super Sweetback Treatment.


This, thick, rich and creamy deep conditioner smells like cotton candy and is the softest shade of pink (kids are sure to love this one!). It makes even the driest curls of any texture, smooth, silky and more manageable.

The feedback is encouraging - the treatment felt amazing, and rinsed out well without weighing down the hair. Hair was left smoother, softer and with incredible shine. When hair was left to air dry, there was also much less frizz and hair was much easier to comb through and/or style.

In addition to this fantastic new product, Miss Jessie's also has an beautiful new salon opening in the Soho area of New York City in July, 2010! Note: The new salon will replace the current Miss Jessie's salon in Brooklyn, which will be closing.

Miss Jessie's founders (and sisters pictured left at the salon opening), Titi and Miko, attended to and were involved in every single detail for the salon, from the layout and design, to the type of chairs the clients will sit in, to the stunning decor.They will have a mini Miss Jessie's boutique in the salon as well).

I am in need of a good shaping haircut and just might decide to give Miss Jessie's a shot.  What say you?
Miss Jessie's Salon: 441 Broadway between Grand and Howard

Missjessies.com

Product Review: Tigi Moisture Maniac Conditioner

I decided to pick this conditioner up after reading the ingredients on-line and noting it had one of my hair's favorites, Behentrimonium Methosulfate. It definitely delivered in all departments. It literally MELTS any tangles and knots from your hair on contact and give a huge dose of moisture to your tresses. Massive conditioning power. I didn't need to use a large amount, either, which is good because the bottle is on the small side.    Brilliant pina colada fragrance. I swear it's THE best smelling condish I've had on my hair in a long time!  I used it as a leave in and topped with a dollop of my JessiCurl Weekly Deep Conditioner and the result is soft, shiny, delicious smelling, defined, smooth curls! It is kinda pricey for the amount you get, though. I bought the 8.5 oz bottle from my local Stop and Shop for about $14.00.  I found it here on Amazon in an 25.36 oz size for $16.36 and it has free super saver shipping!! I bought 3 bottles to stock up as I know this is going into heavy rotation in my hair conditioner arsenal.

Ingredients:  Aqua (Water), Cetyl Alcohol, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetrimonium Chloride, Glycerin, Acetamide MEA, Cetrimonium Bromide, Stearyl Alcohol, Parfum/Fragrance (Fragrance), DMDM Hydantoin, PPG 2 Myristyl Ether Propionate, Pentaerythrityl Tetracaprylate/Tetracaprate, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Tetrasodium EDTA, Silk Amino Acids, Orange 4 (CI 15510)

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.

Product Review: Living Proof No Frizz Styling Treatment for Thick to Coarse Hair

UPDATE!:  Well...is strange...my hair LOOKS good with no frizz and even has some shiny to it, but feels dry!  After it dried I did scrunch it like the directions said to soften and yes that did help, but still felt weirdly dry to me.  I also did my regular leave in of Tresemme and topped the styling treatment with my usual Aloe Butter.  For the first time the aloe butter left a barely visible white film on the surface of my hair on one side which leaves me to deduct this product does not play well with others and must be used either alone or with the other products in this line.  That being said, I will give this another shot, using it on it's own, as it did terminate frizz on contact and dried with well defined curls.  This definitely could be great for when it gets hot and humid and I don't happen to want big hair on that day! LOL!

Living Proof Wave Shaping, Curl Defining No Frizz Styling Treatment for Thick to Coarse Hair offers the first new anti-frizz technology in over 30 years. No Frizz addresses the two causes of frizz—humidity and friction. It provides a superior, extremely thin humidity barrier on hair while reducing surface friction. The result is the most effective, lightweight frizz fighter on the market today. This expert styling secret weapon contains a touchable holding polymer to give your waves and curls added definition. Hair is left sleek and manageable without becoming greasy or heavy. No Frizz also repels dirt and oil so you can go longer between shampoos.
My results:
Okay..I like it?..........Maybe? I bought the 2oz. travel size to try it out first before investing in a larger size.  The smell in heinous! Think RAID bug spray!!  Fortunately it appears to dissapate after applying.  I swear I almost didn't put it on my hair the smell was so strong.  I'll tell you one thing, though. The minute I applied this to my head the frizz went bye-bye.  Strange think is, after applying, my hair started to drip water from the ends of my curls when I had already scruched/blotted i dry. I'm guessing it's some form of delivery to the hair in the product.  I continued to drip water (clear water) for a bit, too.  It does define the curl and erradicate frizz, so I will invest in the larger size next time and do one more test to see how it comes out.  Also appears to help with shrinkage factor.

Ingredients:
Water, VP/VA Copolymer, PolyfluoroEster, VP/Dimethylaminoethylmethacrylate Copolymer, Ethylhexyl Stearate, Glycerin, Polyacrylate-13, Cetyl Alcohol, Polyisobutene, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Fragrance, Polysorbate 20, Sorbic Acid