From BSL Texlaxed to Short and Natural - I Big Chopped (for the 3rd Time)

I was frustrated struggling with 3 different hair textures.
I have been admiring many locked men and women for the past few months.
I decided to cut my hair yesterday.
I was almost BSL. *shrug*
It's just hair & it will grow back.
I missed my natural hair.

Shrinkage is the Devil!

I'll still be rocking my lacefronts and
full caps for "corporate America".
I just started a new job and not everyone embraces the concept of natural hair on women of color.
This is INSANE to me. Seriously, people think you're going to "Set It Off" or something.

I feel so liberated from the struggle of detangling 3 textures.




I'm excited!

Babyliss Pro Thermal Ionic Rollabout Dryer REVIEW

"•1600 Watts of power
•Ionic technology conditions the hair
•Three temperature settings
•Adjustable height (48")
•Freestanding design
•Built-in airflow diffuser
•Removable inlet grill
•Easy to assemble
•1 Year warranty

The Babyliss Pro Thermal Ionic Rollabout Dryer is a portable, professional rollabout hair dryer with1600 watts of power and built-in airflow diffuser that lets you enjoy professional quality and salon-results. Features three temperature settings and adjustable bonnet with lift up visor for added convenience. Heavy duty spine locks adapter to secure bonnet to inner chrome stand and a durable base provides easy maneuverability and prevents tipping. Easy to clean. Rustproof chrome plated inner and outer stand."

I bought this after having seen YouTube's Lovely
Kokofemme do a review on it.
She wears locks and was looking to maintain them at home.
Although I do not wear locks, I thought it would be great for me.
I have been using this dryer since February 2010.
My hubby assembled this for me. However I could have easily done it myself.
I use it primarily for deep conditioning and rollersets.
I like it because of it's portability. I can sit on my sofa or at my desk because of the adjustable pole.
I would give this product 4 out of 5 stars.
I gave it 4 stars because it does not come with a timer and the little "U" cord clips can be lost if you are not careful.

For more info, please check
SallyBeauty

Tyche Black Flat Iron Spray Heat Protector - Product REVIEW

This product is made by Nicka K Cosmetics.

Product Description
Tyche Black Heat Protector Flat Iron Spray is formulated to protect hair from heat damage, providing healthy and silky hair.
It locks humidity out to reduce frizz while balancing moisture in the hair. Tyche Black Heat Protector also reconditions hair for luminous shine and better straightening result.

DIRECTIONS
Spray evenly and smooth the hair with flat iron. For extra healthy and silky hair, spray slightly after the heat styling.

INGREDIENTS
Methylisothiazolinone, Amodimethicone, Laureth-7, Isolaureth-6, Glycerin, Amodimethicoe, Trideceth-12, Cetrimonium Chloride, DMDMH, EDTA, AQUA

I was in a hurry and a little short on cash when I picked up this item from the beauty supply store.
It costs $2.99. You get what you pay for.
I stretch my relaxer and my daughters are transitioning. This was not a good fit for us.
I sprayed this product on clean blow dryed hair. I smoothed the hair with my fingers and then flat ironed.
This product seemed to make the hair revert. I did not dare to spray the hair an additional time as the directions suggested.
Not at all what I was looking for! If you have naturally curly hair or more than one texture, please don't waste your money.

While the hair seemed to be protected from the heat, the addition of water in this product really negated that benefit.

Best Product for Maintaining Braid Outs or Curly/Natural Hair REVIEW

When I first considered using this product, I cringed. I was reminded of times past when "Jheri Curl juice stained furniture." This product is drip free and does not look "greasy". Gone are the days of drip drip "Soul Glo".






•May be used daily
•Contains glycerine and vitamin B5 to help eliminate breakage
•Keeps your curls, waves and natural
•Hair is left soft, healthy and with a lasting sheen
•Does not leave a greasy build-up

S-Curl Activator and Moisturizer may be used daily to maintain and condition your curly hair style. It contains Glycerine and Vitamin B5, which together eliminate breakage and keep your curls, waves and natural hair soft and healthy. This special No Drip Formula allows you to use S-Curl Activator and Moisturizer without fear of ruining your clothes or pillow cases

Ingredients
Water , Glycerine , Cetearyl Alcohol , Propylene Glycol , Acetamide MEA , Ceteth-20 , Olealkonium Chloride , Stearalkonium Chloride , Panthenol , Simethicone , Imidazolidinyl Urea , Methylparaben , Propylparaben , Fragrance

My Thoughts
I see 4 products which are considered haram (taboo) for African textured hair.
Somehow, that just does not jive with the results I have experienced.
This stuff is amazing! I used it last night for my daughters' hair. As texlaxed, transitioning young ladies, they both have been sporting braid outs. This product helps hair retain moisture so it won't look dry. They both have soft sandy brown hair. Lighter hair seems to just lack sheen without some type of moisturizer. I love this product! I give it 5 out of 5 stars.

How I use it
- Every evening before bed. On my own relaxed hair, I use this product to moisturize my ends before sealing them with the oil of my choice.
- I spritz this product on my daughters' hair before braiding and sealing their ends with oil.

Hair Report - Relaxer Results - Growth Check

In July 2009, my hair was NL(Neck Length). I just relaxed tonight (3/19/2010).
It has grown to little past SL (Shoulder Length) in the back & to the collar bone on the sides. YAY ME!



I got some nasty tangles last week & decided 8 months of stretching was ENOUGH for me!

I prepped my hair last week. After I got out all the tangles, I co-washed with Herbal Essences Long Term Relationship. I used Aphogee Keratin 2 Minute Reconstructor Treatment. I followed that with Roux Porosity Control.

Today, I used Elasta QP Regular lye relaxer. (after having purchased heard it wasn't the best, but took my chances anyway.) I rinsed with IsoPlus Neutralizing Shampoo until there was no pink. I followed with Roux Porosity Control for like a minute. Rinsed that out & applied Organic Root Stimulator Olive Oil Replenishing Pak.



I baggied my hair & sat under the dryer for 15 mins to Deep Condition.
I rinsed that out. Next I detangled with Mane 'n Tail Detangler.
Following that, I used Ellin LaVar Thermal Protectant.
(It has alcohol. UGH I know that's a NO NO, but it was all I had on hand...gonna use it all b4 I buy something better).

Result...Under-relaxed. Why? As a protective style, I wear braids. When I go out I wear wigs. When I took out the braids, it was difficult for me to see where the new growth ended because it was ALL wavy! No biggie. I prefer to be texlaxed instead of bone straight anyway. My natural hair is kind of cottony (except in the crown). Being texlaxed makes my hair look fuller & have more body. Better pics 2mrw. I was so excited, I just had to share!

February Favorites (pic heavy)

Photo Credit: Sally Beauty

Babyliss Pro Thermal Ionic Rollabout Dryer

I use this for conditioning hair treatments, roller sets and wraps. I love the fact that mine & my daugthers' hair can dry quickly without neck searing heat.


For More info Click HERE



Mega Care Tea Tree Oil (Manufactured in Patterson NJ, by Sunflower Cosmetics)

Natural antibacterial oil with extra protection for your hair and body.

DIRECTIONS:
- Use for skin irritation and oily skin.
- Prevents itchy, dry scalp.
- Anti- dandruff and antifungal.
- Use as a massage oil or while in sauna.

INGREDIENTS:
Tea Tree Oil, Canola Oil, Sunflower Oil, Castr oil, Olive Oil, Cottonseed Oil, Grape Seed Oil, Tocopherol, Jojoba Oil, Fragrance

HOW I USE IT
- My scalp tends to be super dry. This treatment helps me to exfoliate dead skin cells from my scalp. I use it as a pre-poo treatment before washing my hair.
My scalp absorbs it. My hair LOVES it!
- I also use this on my tween daughters' scalp after a shampoo.
It keeps them from suffering from itchy scalp and flakes.
- It has a pleasant scent that reminds me of my childhood.
- This is very affordable. I pick it up for $1.00 from a Mom & Pop dollar store in my area. I have seen it at local beauty supply stores for $1.99.


Photo Credit: Bath and Body Works
C.O. Bigelow® Mentha Cinnamint Lip Shine

"Our Cinnamon and Mint-infused lip balm provides a glossy high shine with a refreshing cooling sensation. Lips stay moist and protected while Cinnamon and Peppermint give breath long-lasting freshness.

Gives breath long-lasting freshness
Contains active levels of therapeutic apothecary ingredients
Contains no artificial colorants and not tested on animals
Developed by Bigelow Chemists
Best of Beauty
This CEW finalist for ™Lip Treatment Under $14™ (2007) is a shining example of how hardworking a lip gloss can be."

MY THOUGHTS
This is an oldie but a goodie! If you ever have scaly chapped lips, just using a little of this will help them to peel within minutes. The cinnamon oil has a plumping effect. Overall, this is my favorite conditioning lip treatment. I believe these are on sale right now at Bath & Body Works (Buy 2 Get 1 Free)

MAC Ripe Peach Blush Ombre



A powder blush featuring a shade wave of gentle ombre hues. Ultra-fine formula provides the cheeks with flawless, medium-buildable coverage and lightly pearled, natural-looking radiance. Limited edition.

MY THOUGHTS
Initially when I got this blush, I was surprized by the size. It is 9grams vs. a normal sized MAC blush at 6grams. I didn't think the lighter portion did anything for my complexion (MAC NC45). I had to play with it a few days before I decided that I loved it. I was not prepared for all of the "male attention" I received when I went outof doors wearing this blush. (I'm pretty sure that's a CON for me.)
I stacked paired it with L'Oreal Hip ENAMOURED cream blush as a base.
I used NARS Taj Mahal on the apples of my cheeks. The overall effect was that the blush imparted a youthful glow. LOVE THIS product!

New Born Free FREYA



- Synthetic Full Cap Wig
Special thanks to April (muffinismylovers) from YouTube for putting the spotlight on this wig. I call her my Niecy Nash wig. She doesn't tangle like some of my other synthetic pieces. She is not as heavy or dense. Manufacture/Wigsite Photo shows her worn with part in center. Like April, I prefer my part on the side. It means the eartabs are off kilter, but oh well. She only has adjustable straps, so I use bobby pins to make sure she's secure.


Favorite Blogger


Photo Credit: CosmeticQT


One of the lesser known gems on Blogger is
CosmeticQT Life Of a Makeup Addict
She does some beautiful soft and pretty eyeshadow looks. Please check her out.
You will not be sorry.

Favorite YouTuber

BEATFACEHONEY
Uber Talented! Awesome Teacher!

Sally Hansen Microwaveable Eyebrow, Face & Lip Wax REVIEW

Photo Credit: Sally Hansen

No Strips Needed!

Quickly and effectively removes unwanted facial hair.
Easy to use - just apply and peel away!
Warms in seconds in the microwave.
Smooth results last up to 8 weeks.
Mistake-proof.
Helps reduce the appearance of hair regrowth.
Salon Tested - Dermatologist Tested.
Kit Includes:
Microwaveable Wax, Safetouch Temperature Sensitive Spatula, Mini Tweezer to remove stray hairs with precision, 3 Easy to Use Brow Guides, Post-Treatment Extrasoothe Lotion with 5% Benzocaine and Complete Instructions in English and Spanish.
Special Ingredients:
Natural Tree Rosin, Beeswax and Aloe Vera Formula gently removes hair and nourishes skin.

Post-Treatment Extrasoothe Lotion with 5% Benzocaine to instantly soothe and comfort skin after hair removal.

Special Ingredients:
Natural Tree Rosin, Beeswax and Aloe Vera Formula gently removes hair and nourishes skin.

Post-Treatment Extrasoothe Lotion with 5% Benzocaine to instantly soothe and comfort skin after hair removal.

Application Techniques
For best results, follow instructions included in package.

This kit includes three different eyebrow guide stencils for perfect grooming! Choose the look you prefer, and place the sticker over your brow. The parts of the brow remaining can be waxed away, leaving the beautiful shape you desire. Heat the wax based on the specific heating instructions. This kit comes with our exclusive heat sensitive spatula. When dipped into the wax, spatula will read "READY" if it is a safe heating temperature. If the wax is too hot, the spatula will be blank. After determining the correct wax temperature, you may decide to use the small orange stick for precision waxing. Determine the right applicator and dip into wax jar. Wax should be the consistency of honey. Spread wax onto area where hair is to be removed. Be sure to apply in the same direction to which hair grows. Leave a slightly thicker amount of wax at the end, to be lifted for the removal of the wax. Once wax is applied to face, allow to cool for about 10-15 seconds. When wax is ready to be pulled off, it will be soft but pliable and still warm. Use your finger to slightly peel up the edge of the thick end of the wax. Grip this end and pull away quickly in the opposite direction of how you applied it. For best removal, pull wax off close to the skin, rather than pulling outwards. If strip is peeled away correctly, the hair will be in the wax and not on your skin! Repeat these steps until all unwanted hair is removed. Use Post Treatment Soothing Azulene (included) to soothe and care for skin, and remove traces of excess wax.

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My Thoughts:

I decided several years ago that rather than waste my money at my local nail salon for eyebrow waxing, I'd attempt the job myself. Afterall, it cost me $5 for the wax kit. My concerns stemmed from my observation of less than hygenic utensils at the nail salon. (Insert "germ-o-phobe" HERE)Removal of hair can sometimes involve BLOOD. Yes, bodily fluids. How could I be 100% sure that the attendant was not reusing orange sticks? UGH! There was no way to be certain. In the long run, you get what you pay for. I was only paying $5. If I liked the job they did, I would tip a dollar. Sometimes my brows came out great, other times, they took off too much or changed the shape in a way that I did not like. Language barrier was impeding my fly brows. It was time for a change. I've been maintaining my brows for five years. I haven't waxed them in forever. In recent years, tweezing individual hairs has been my practice.

On to the pressing issue at hand..the "stache". Yes, I've always been hairy.
Not Sasquatch, but hairy enough for it to be noticable. During a routine monthly search & destroy session, I noticed that I had some darker hairs sprouting beneath my lower lip. AHN AHN! No way! I can't do a "soul patch". It occurred to me that I had neglected the Sally Hansen Wax Kit. It was time for me to prepare for the pain and stoke up the old microwave. It had been so long since I'd waxed, I was unprepared for the sting. The post treatment soothing cream was a welcome rescue aid. The result...90 percent of the stache was removed. I was rusty. I'll give it a go again in a week or two. In the meantime, I can chase the few rogue hairs with my trusty tweezers. The next day, I was left with two minute bumps on my upper lip. Typical for me. I usually follow up with toner after the soother. I forgot to do it this time. This product is very easy to use. I would highly recommend it.

I give this product 5 out of 5 stars.

January Faves/Reviews (Hair Care Products)

Mas vale tarde que nunca! (better late than never)
When I went out during the month of January, I really didn't vary my makeup routine. I have not tried any new products. I haven't really been in a makeup mood. I've been focusing more on my hair.



NO PETROLEUM JELLY that can weigh down hair & clog follicles. This light, non-greasy formula enriched with NATURAL OILS and VITAMINS A, B, C & E will add moisture to your hair leaving it soft and manageable.

Directions:
Apply to fingertips and gently manage throughout hair and scalp. OLIVE OIL has long been used as a skin softener which you will notice on your fingertips & cuticles after each use. With regular use you should obtain the same results on your scalp.

Ingredients: water, isopropyl Myristate, soybean oil, olive oil, stearic acid, stearyl alcohol, glycerol sterate, vitamin E, matricaria extract(chamomile), Calendula extract, vitamin B, macadamia nut oil, vitamin A, coconut oil, rosemary extract, sage extract, vitamin C, great burdock extract, triethanolamine, methyl paraben, propyl paraben, imidazolidnyl urea, fragrance, FD&C yellow #5, FD&C blue #1.

As I have two different textures of hair, it can be a challenge to manage it. I used this product on my scalp daily. I would recommend it to anyone trying to manage naturally curly hair or to anyone transitioning from a relaxer. I probably would use this product if I had my hair in an updo, as opposed to down. I feel like it might weigh down my thin hair if placed on the ends. It has a strong smell which might take a little getting used to. It is inexpensive & you get quite a bit of product.

4 out of 5 stars.
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Mane 'n Tail Detangler makes hair easier to comb and style and increases shine. Helps eliminate tangles and knots and the appearance of dry split ends while adding additional conditioning and styling benefits

•The solution for hard-to-comb hair
•Provides a rich, luxurious shine
•Hair becomes easily manageable
•Restores lost moisture
•Prevents breakage
•Reduces split ends

The Original Mane 'n Tail products have long been a solution for troubled hair.
Now from the makers of Mane ‘n Tail comes Detangler.

An exclusive pH balanced Detangler formula that is easy to use and helps eliminate tangles and knots and the appearance of dry split ends while adding additional conditioning and styling benefits. Your hair becomes easily manageable with a rich and luxurious shine.

Mane 'n Tail Detangler, the solution for hard to comb hair

Directions
After showering, while hair is still damp, spray Mane 'n Tail Detangler liberally on hair. Work formula through, making sure it covers and reaches all of the hair. DO NOT RINSE OUT. Comb out hair with a large tooth comb or brush. Results are a super slip that allows hair to respond to styling effortlessly. Style as usual. If pump becomes clogged, run under warm water.

I LOVE this stuff! I'm 7 months post relaxer. I have more new growth than relaxed hair at this point. Mane 'n Tail Detangler makes detangling my hair a breeze. I have not encountered a better product. I use this on my tween daughters' hair as well.
All Pros & NO Cons with this product. It may leave the hair a little oily. My hair absorbs product & tends to be more dry in the winter months.

5 out of 5 stars!
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New
Regular Formula For Normal Hair
With Certified Organic Ingredients
Detangling Conditioning Shampoo Featuring Organic Sunflower and Coconut Oils to Gently Cleanse and Condition For Soft Silky Hair.

Keep Out of Reach of Children
Wet Hair. Apply Shampoo and Work Into Lather. Rinse Thoroughly. Repeat. Next, Condition With CreMe of Nature Conditioner.


OMG! This is my new HG (holy grail) shampoo. Although my hair is dry, I thought I'd give this normal formula a play. It left my hair feeling so soft & tangle free. I would definitely recommend this to a friend!

5 out of 5 stars!
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Good Hair...Can it Be Nappy?

I was natural until I turned 12 years of age. I was relaxed through high school up until I was in my early 30s. I've done 3 big chops. I relaxed my hair about 3 months ago. I have about 2 1/2" of new growth. I don't think I'll chop it again, but who knows!

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Genie Locs

I've long been a fan of locs. My dream hairstyle is sista-locs, but the hubby is opposed. People might argue, it's your hair, do what you want. The basis of any romatic relationship's initial attraction is physical. Why beautify yourself in a way your mate would not like? Of course after 17 years of marriage, we have gotten to know one another long enough to have delved DEEPER than that initial physical attraction. He still makes my heart go pitter-pat. Of course I want to be attractive to him. So I have respected how he feels about locs. I think his biggest objection was the permanence of the style. I am changing my hair style from day to day. How happy was I when I found out about a temporary loc style.

Watch the LOVELY Rochelle demonstrate how this style is achieved.

Love her! She's BlackOnyx77 on YouTube. Congrats to her on over 8,000 subscribers! YAY!

Tyra Did It!

Tyra wore her real hair! She went on stage fresh from the shower. Her hairstylist cut about 3 inches (YIKES). Next he styled her hair.

click on the highlighted text to view a video clip
on comcast.net:

Fan Video: Tyra Banks: No Weave!
http://www.comcast.net/video/1246237130/tyra_banks_no_weave

I thought she looked great. I could totally see why she wears wigs. I am sure those lights & stuff are hard on her hair.

What did you think?

To Lacefront or Not?

Lace Front? I don't know if I can do it you guys! I get too hot! LOL I don't want to be a sweaty mildew mess under there! What do you think?

Living Proof NO frizz Styling Treatment

img cred..sephora

Straight Making No Frizz Styling Treatment for Thick to Coarse Hair
What it is:
A daily treatment for optimum frizz reduction and conditioning.

What it does:
Living Proof Straight Making 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. Hair is left smooth and manageable without becoming greasy or heavy.

What else you need to know:
No Frizz formulas efficiently deliver PolyfluoroEster to the surface of the hair in one even, perfect layer—devoid of any extraneous additives. This advanced styling aid works great on color-treated hair and is terrific for taming highly processed hair. No Frizz also repels dirt and oil so you can go longer between shampoos.

LOVE THIS STUFF! Five out of Five stars!
Why?
I use it after washing & conditioning my daughter's relaxed hair. Next I blow it dry on a warm setting. Her hair is really dense & thick! She's also a bigtime sweater. Often that results in POOFY hair the moment she steps out of the airconditioning & into the humidity. I noticed a marked improvement in the texture of her hair. I flat ironed it on a warm setting & reversion was practically non-existant.

Pretty Pricey @ $24 (4oz), but so worth it for my peace of mind. :O)
Try the 2oz bottle for $14

buy this product @
http://www.Sephora.com