Sew in Woes

Last week I attempted my first long term protective style. It was a lesson learnt.I ombred 2 bundles of malaysian curly hair and did an invisible part sew in. It looked nice except I do not have many photos because it lasted 1 day and some hours. I love my hair and I refuse to be uncomfortable just for a style. I used a weaving  net and all the works. But my scalp started to burn and my edges looked like they were under extreme pressure. So I decided to undo it,I was bummed because of the time and money I placed into it but healthy hair trumps it all.The conclusion to all this fiasco is that I am extremely tender headed considering the factors. Braids and weaves are a definitely no,no for me. I think I would stick to what I know works for me.

Killing two birds with one stone *update*

Previously, I spoke about adding a "cheapie" conditioner to my protein treatments to cut down on my wash day steps. After a deep reflection I decided not to because I think I may weaken or alter the protein conditioner in some form. But I am happy to tell you that a "cheapie" conditioner after my protein treatments are great. My quest for finding the ultimate moisturizing "deep" conditioner is over. Sometimes the littlest and cheapest things makes a big difference.

Shirley temple

Embrace and Love the skin you are in

A great protective style

First impression of Elasta QP Mango and Olive Oil Moisturizer as a Leave in

As you may know some moisturizers can be doubled as a leave in conditioner. Today I decided to try this product as a leave in just to see how my hair would react. I applied the moisturizer after adding few pumps of Vitale Olive Oil Antibreakage Foam Wrap Lotion and I sealed it using ORS Hair Repair Vital Oils. After applying all products I proceeded to roller setting my hair. When I finished roller setting my hair I realized the power was out,so I waited nearly 4 hours before being able to sit under my dryer. I sat under my dryer for 30 minutes just to complete the drying process the proceeded to taking down my rollers. 

My hair was smooth and soft to the touch with great luster. Instantly, I felt like I've found the one. I am happy my hair turned out the way it did. I am only one week post therefore I would wait and see if my results vary down the line.Stay tuned!

Red Hot Rhythm

For a month or two I've been contemplating changing my hair. Obviously cutting is out because it defeats the purpose of my hair journey. Let me come out and say it, I want to color my hair. I know persons on a healthy hair journey stay clear of hair coloring and dyes. My hair is at a length where I am satisfied and just want to do a little more. I don't believe hair coloring is the end of one's hair. I believe it's how you care for your hair after  you decide to color it. The color I have in my mind is Dark & Lovely Red Hot Rhythm. Its a redish bronze color that would compliment my skin tone beautifully. I am officially color crazed and feel the urge to get it out of my system.

Hair Haul (4)

Few weeks ago I swore I would stick to my current products. But yet again I had that itch. The itch to try a new product. I love reading and watching reviews because I think they are enlightening. To be honest most of the products in my stash I came upon them through reviews. Without further delay the product I was sold on is the Elasta QP's Mango and Olive Oil Moisturizer. It seems to be a good product after skimming and scanning the ingredients.  I plan to try this product as a leave in and a daily moisturizer.Stay put!Review coming soon!

My first attempt of a twist and curl

Killing two birds with one stone.

Today it is all about cutting down on time and cost therefore we look for simpler means of doing so. I think wash days can be hectic and sometimes feel like a chore. Yesterday I was reflecting on my actions and I had an aha moment or a light bulb lit up.Relaxed or natural one of the things you must learn to master is the protein and moisture balance inorder to retain length. I am covered in that area because I normally follow my protein treatments with a moisturizing conditioner. Every time I wash my hair I ALWAYS do a protein treatment. I can't wash my tress without adding a protein treatment then you can imagine the task of going under my dryer and facet twice. To cut down on the process I decided that from my next wash day on wards I am going to add Vo5 or another moisturizing conditioner to my protein treatment. Wish me luck!After 1 or 2 months I would be sure to give you the intel

Prepoo or Not to prepoo?

When I started blogging that was when I discovered the art of Pre-pooing. Without much thought I jumped on the wagon. Here I am months later asking myself does it make a difference? I view it as adding lotion to the body and rinsing it off. Based on my experience I think Pre-pooing defeats the cleansing process and what ever comes next. I  pre-pooed mostly with coconut oil and I had to work harder to get my hair clean. I do not want that because build up prevent the hair from receiving all the goodness from treatments and conditioners. I did just fine before I discovered pre-pooing. So the verdict is...I will no longer be doing a pre shampoo treatment on my wash days.

Grade 5A Malaysian Curly Hair

Hi People!

I got 2 bundles of 12" Malaysian Curly hair for my birthday. I recieved them about 3 weeks ago. I took the hair out of its package ran my fingers through it,washed and conditioned. There was little to no shedding and the hair is very soft thus far. I am totally in love with the curl pattern. If you know me then you know I am a sucker for curly hair. After weeks of pondering, I believe I would make a full curly wig that resembles a curly fro. It would be a great protective style because all of my hair would be tucked away. So until then here are some images of the hair out of its package then after  air drying and my inspiration for my next wig.

P.S:I plan to purchase Softsheen Carson's Carefree curls instant activator to maintain my curls. I'll be sure to do a review.Until then...

Wash day at 6 weeks Post

Freetress Creta Girl Half Wig

Creta Girl straight from the package

I am in love with this wig. It tun up loud!!!It's everything except human. After reading and watch  reviews of this hair, I fell in love with this hair. I think this unit is great for transitioning or simply stretching your relaxer.Why do I really want this wig:

1. Great protective style
2. Versatile;can be worn as a bun
3. Lovely curls
4. I love big curly hair and it's the TREND
5. For a synthetic it has long life with proper care.
6. Looks even better with age.
7. Affordable (duh!)

My biggest inspiration for this wig is Loveyourtresses. She owns her unit for over 3 months and it looks great. If you already  own this unit or contemplating buying it,here are some tips for maintenance from loveyourtresses.

Creta Girl After 3 months of wearing

Synthetic "Natural"

Wash day

• No washing synthetics! You'll end up with a ball of dry cotton afterwards!!!

Detangling

• In most cases the general consensus would be not to detangle however this of course depends on the type of "natural" style you having going on. For curlier weaves/wigs you definitely do not want to try and detangle as this will result a loss of curl and fuzzy type texture. You can use your scissors to snip through tangles but generally detangling is not advised. For kinkier styles you may be able to lightly detangle using your fingers but again with synthetic styles I would give this a mis

Styling

• When it comes to synthetic hair care avoid using any heat whatsoever as your hair will burn baby B-U-R-N! Also styling products will cause product build up which cannot be easily, if at all reversed on synthetic wigs

Bedtime care

• To make your synthetic do last longer give you hair a break and take your wig off at night. Laying on synthetic hair when we sleep will cause matting, tangling and in most cases reduce the quality of the wigs curl pattern making it last a lot less longer than you bargained for!

Daily care

• No touching, no detangling and taking your wig off at night should encourage a longer wear! Here is a quick shot of Creta after 3 weeks of wear...

New Sealant

Previously, I decided to seal with a serum that which I did for a couple of months. It's time for a change again.I guess! My last wash day was  October 4th and I decided to try something new. I decided to seal my hair using olive oil since it can actually penetrate my hair to some degree. I must say so far so good.

Olive oil;

• penetrates the hair shaft therefore it conditions the hair inside and outside
• Adds shine and luster
• Eliminates dandruff
• Improves hair strength
• Aids with moisturization

Deep Conditioning on a budget

 +

By now you should know I am one to experiment. On many hair blogs and Forums VO5 are condemned solely as the  "Cheapie Co-washing Conditioner" but I think they are greatly underrated. On previous wash days I  tried the VO5 Moisturizing coconut conditioner on my hair after shampoo and as a a deep conditioner with oils following my protein treatments. It is great in both aspects, it left my hair silky,smooth and soft.  When I using this to deep condition I added Ollive oil since it is one of the three oils (Avocado and Coconut Oil) that is said to actually penetrate the hair shaft.To all my girls on a hair journey and on a budget you should try this.

Current Fave to Nay

I received a sample of Organic Root Stimulator Hair Repair Anti-breakage Creme attach to their hair mayonnaise. After several months of sitting on my counter I decided to give a try.

The product claims the following:

"Helps moisturize and strengthen weak and damaged hair.  Formulated with a blend of bamboo extract, shea butter, and other essential ingredients that have been known to help reduce breakage and dryness in natural and relaxed hair.  With continued use, hair will appear stronger with a beautiful, healthy-looking shine."

Ingredients:

Aqua (Water), C12-15 Alkyl, Benzoate, Isopropyl Palmitate, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Cetearyl Alcohol, Polysorbate 60, PEG-150 Stearate Cetyl Alcohol, Ceteareth-20, PEG-20 Hydrogenated Lanolin, PEG-40 Stearate, Sodium Cetearyl Sulfate, Cyclomethicone, PEG-25 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Glycerin, Propylene Glycol, Hydrolyzed Keratin, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Butryospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Prunues Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Bamboo (Bambusa Vulgaris) Extract, Dimethicone Methionine, Tocopheryl Acetate, Zea Mays (Corn) Oil, BHA, BHT, Triethanoamine, Carbomer, DMDM Hydantoin, Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Methylisothiazolinone, Parfum (Fragrance), Benzyl Benzoate, Geraniol, Lilal, d-Limonene, CI 19140 (Yellow #5), CI 15985 (Yellow #6)

Directions:

Use daily or as often as needed. Apply a small amount to the scalp and massage.  Comb through for even distribution from root to end.  May also be applied directly to ends for added protection.

If you follow this blog you would know that I tried the moisturizer for this line of ORS products,but sadly it wasn't the bomb. I actually like the anti-breakage creme more because it is more nourishing because my hair loves it and so do I. It is a heavy product and a little goes a long. I must admit that I was reluctant to try it because of its ingredients, I did not want to experience protein overload but as I said it works great. While using this I did not feel the need to seal my hair because of its consistency. I think I am going to purchase the bigger jar and possibly replace my current moisturizer (ORS Olive Oil Moisturizing Lotion).Lastly, I think this would serve well as a leave in conditioner.

RECALL:
I used this for two- three weeks and after awhile my hair felt very stiff and dry. So I think this isn't for me. I am going to stick to my previous moisturizer.

Fruits of thy labour

Simple & Easy Protective Style

I am totally in love with this style. It's quick,easy and simple. You can actually wear this to church,work or other functions,it is effortless and can last you up to a week.I would just have to add it to the list of my favorite protective styles. 

Need I say more?

Goals update

• Armpit Length by October,2013   achieved September,2013
• Bra-strap Length by March,2014

• Finish some products:

1. Organics by Africa's Best Hair Mayonnaise
2. Organics by Africa's Best Cholesterol Tea-Tree Oil
3. Organics by Africa's Best Olive Oil Deep Conditioner

• Stick to what WORKS!!!

Hind sight

Previously, I expressed my inability to find  the perfect moisturizing conditioner. Today while reflecting I realized I might have cast aside the perfect deep conditioner. Earlier in my hair journey I used "Profectiv "Mega Growth Deep Strengthen Growth Conditioner" (such a long name) that made my hair buttery soft and voluminous.I am still puzzled as to why I cast it aside. Before I thought it was quiet moisturizing for a protein conditioner. But little did I know it is more on the moisturizing side although it is marketed more on the protein side.Through out my hair journey no protein product had ever left my hair buttery soft. Therefore, I deem it moisturizing and the ingredients also suggest that it is moisturizing. On my next wash day I plan to use this conditioner after a protein treatment and see how it goes. Wish me luck!!!

These are some the Proteins listed in the product:

• Silk Amino Acids - Help to seal the hair cuticle, increase detangling & shine, and acts as a moisturizer by preventing dryness. Used to penetrate the hair to add body and strength.

• Hydrolyzed Oat Protein - Derived from oats; adds texture and thickens hair, soothes, softens, and nourishes it.Restores strength and elasticity. Easily diffuses into the hair shaft to give a fuller, healthier look.

• Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein: - Strengthens and thickens the hair. It attracts and retains moisture (Film-forming agent which retains water) thus improving hair manageability & elasticity. Excellent penetration into the outer protective layer of hair up to the outer cortex. This protein conditions the hair with its moisture retention and film forming properties, which will greatly improve the body, shine, and smoothness of hair.

• Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein - A powerful hair strengthening protein complex that instantly & dramatically improves the condition of damaged hair.

• Hydrolyzed Soy Protein - Known to add strength and manageability to hair. It is able to keep the cuticle smooth, repair and strengthen hair. This vegetable protein helps hair retain moisture. Hydrolyzed soy protein also adds shine, provides ease of combing, and reinforces the hair preventing breakage.

Organics by Africa's Best Olive Oil Deep Conditioner Review

For the longest while I have been looking for a moisturizing conditioner that makes me go "yes babaaay". Since the Optimum Salon Care Deep Conditioning Masque nothing dared to come so close. Previously, I tried the Hollywood Beauty Olive Oil Cholesterol it's okay but it isn't great. I'm I looking for too much from a conditioner?After that conditioner did not scratch the itch, I bought Organics by Africa's Best Olive Oil Deep Conditioner after hearing mostly good things about it. It is very affordable with a fair amount of product but it hasn't quiet deliver as expected. This conditioner doesn't make my hair as soft as I would like it to be. So I think from here on I would use to pre-poo to use up the product. I definitely would not re-purchase this product.

Hair Length Update

I think it fair to say I am Armpit Length (APL). I am so proud! By next March I hope to be full Bra-strap length.

A Glimpse of DIY 27 PCS

Lately, I was totally missing in action. I had previous wash days I did not record but I am here now. Few weeks ago I made my first wig using the sewing method. I used the Milkway 27 Pc in colour 1. I went out on a limb by trying to shape the wig myself but you would be the judge. It was very time consuming but I learnt alot in the end. It didn't turn out exactly the way I wanted to but experience is the best teacher. Better luck next time.
Adios!!!

Braid out maybe hair update

My latest obsession

For nearly two (2) weeks I have been trying to understand the craft of wig making. My birthday is coming up and I want a new look. Also I want to give my hair a break for a month from chemicals and everyday manipulation. Currently I am leaning towards a quick weave wig because it is simpler than sewing. I am not sure I have the details down pack for sewing as yet. Quick weave wigs are the ultimate protective style. I am totally in love at the moment. Stay tuned to see what I come up with.

Wash day (almost 3 weeks post)

Yesterday I used all the products I used on my previous wash day. I decided to do another wet wrap but this time I placed 6 medium sized rollers in the middle of my head. This time I air dried my wrap which took 3-4 hour to dry completely. I can definitely say that the 6 rollers gave added bounce or volume to my hair. Secondly, the middle for my hair dried smoother.I think I would keep on adding rollers to the middle of my hair. Wet wraps are quick,easy,simple and silky. They are a great substitute for flat ironing and blow drying the hair. Remember less heat and manipulation equals healthier hair.

Relaxer Myth

Often times we hear people say "relaxers grow your hair". Sadly, that is a myth. Relaxers function just like a flat iron but relaxer results are permanent. It is so because relaxers break down the protein bonds of our hair which makes it straight. Natural hair on the other hand shrinks a lot. Therefore, you cannot see the true length of your hair. 

The picture on the left shows how natural hair shrinks. When the hair is stretched the true length is revealed. If  her hair is relaxed it would be where it is when stretched.

Walk a way remembering that relaxers are not growth aids, they only elongate the hair.

Protective styling

What is a protective style?

• In my own words, I would say a protective style is any style that requires little manipulation.

What are some examples of protective styles?

• Buns
• Wigs
• Braids
• Weaves
• Updos 
• Pony tail

Is it essential?

I do believe it is essential because less manipulation equals less breakage. No breakage means you get to retain length. We often say that our hair is not growing. All hair grow it is just a matter of caring for your ends. If your ends snaps off continuously you would not retain any length and it might seem like your hair is not growing. Your ends are the oldest part of your hair which means they are susceptible to breakage if not cared for. Protective styles can be your friend if done properly. Any form of extensions,wigs,pony tails,bun and updos done too tight can cause harm to your tresses. Lastly, protective styles does not mean ignore my natural (hair growing out of your scalp). You must keep your scalp and the length of your hair clean,oiled and moisturized. Yes, it is that simple.

Organics Root Stimulator (ORS) Replenishing Conditioner Review (Take 2)

An idiom I am starting to believe is true is "second chances are best". The first time I used this conditioner it was extremely hard to rinse our and left my hair very gummy. It was a frustrating experience because there are so many rave reviews about this product. After carefully considering some factors that may have caused such a reaction. I decided to repurchase it. Did it work?Yes, it actually did. It made my hair feel strong and slightly moisturized. There and then I knew that the product was more of a protein conditioner for me.Did it rinse clear? Yes,it did. I actually rinsed it out using cold water and there was no build it up. I conclude that this conditioner works best on freshly relaxed hair. I hope to use this product 1-3 weeks post relaxer as mild re-constructor . Stay tuned for more details :)

Tuesday update

I must admit that I am a restless soul. I am some what of a beauty seeker and never stop at one. With that being said, I have been contemplating how can I take 'better" care of my hair.Instantly I had a light bulb moment. Protective styling came to mind. I hate braids and weaves because of the process but mostly because I am a simple gal. I am more for braiding my own hair or wearing wigs. Those are very low key. I am no stranger to protective styles. I have resorted many times to the well known "Bun".  Secondly, I was thinking if I incorporated protective

styles "Stretching" would be easier because my hair would be tucked away and I would probably wash bi-weekly. Yes!I can recall saying that I deem stretching unnecessary to an extent it is. When I consider stretching my relaxer I am not considering going 6 months and so forth. I am thinking about pushing the envelope to an extra 2 or 3 weeks.Those are my thoughts...Stay tuned:)

Wash day (1week & 1 day post)

As you may have calculated my last relaxer was on July 3rd. This wash day I tried a total of 3 new products. Here's the run of the mill;

1.To kick things off I pre-pooed for 1 hour using coconut oil.

2.Shampooed using my Hawaiian Silky Herbal Shampoo twice.

3.Deep Conditioned using ORS Replenishing Condition for 30 minutes.

4.Deep Conditioned using Organics Olive oil Deep Conditioner.

5.Applied Vitale Olive Oil Foam Wrap and Organics Smoother and Polish to wet hair.

6.I de-tangled and wrapped my hair in a circular motion.

The products listed in step 3-5 are all new products implemented into my regimen. I must say I am pleased with each product thus far and would write an in dept review after a few more uses.

Organics by Africa's Best Smoother & Polish Smoothing Serum

For awhile now I was considering buying a serum. Yesterday I decided to buy Organics by Africa's Best Smoother & Polish Smoothing Serum which was a reasonable price ($14.65). When I am more than four  (4) weeks post my hair normally feels dry and a bit rough hence my newest buy. Secondly, I noticed bloggers and vloggers are doing wet wraps and roller set using serums of all sorts. As a result of that I noticed that their hair look shiner and silkier so I decided to try it for myself. The sealant that I currently use does not seem to be very potent which means I would try this product as a sealant.

According to Curlynikki.com

"Silicones are synthetic oils. They make good sealants but they don’t do a perfect job. If they did, you wouldn’t have to re-moisturize at all because moisture would stay locked into your hair. But, that’s not what happens at all. If you seal with a silicone serum your hair will still get dry within a few days because moisture (water) can escape past the silicone. Hair sealed with coconut oil might need to be re-moisturized within a day; hair sealed with a silicone serum might stay moisturized for 2 days before it needs to be replenished. If moisture can get out, it can definitely be put back in. When you re-moisturize your hair after applying a serum, the moisture may take a few extra minutes to absorb, but it will absorb. Think of a silicone serum like a fence, not a brick wall. Silicone makes a stronger fence than any natural oil, but it’s still just a fence. Kinky hair is extremely porous compared to other hair types and it needs all the help with sealing it can get. Many face and body lotions contain silicone and you never have trouble re-moisturizing your skin. Your hair is no different."

I have very high expectation of this serum because the ingredients seems good.

Organics by Africa's Best Smoother & Polish Smoothing Serum ingredients: Dimethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Fragrance, Hydrolyzed Soybean protein, Silk amino acid, Phenyl Trimethicone, Hydrolyzed Oat Protein

Dimethicone:

1. It adsorbs (sticks on) on to the outer cuticle of hair.2. It forms a film on the hair which smoothes down the cuticle.3. It lubricates the hair and is thought to contribute to easier wet combing (i.e less friction).4.In hair serum, for thermal processing, dimethicone is a heat protectant.

Cyclopentasiloxane

CPS is a water-thin so it’s very good at dispersing thicker, greasier silicones. For this reason it’s often used in combination with dimethicone. It is also volatile, which means it will evaporate. So, not only does it help spread heavier silicones but it doesn’t leave your hair feeling weighed down after it’s done.

 Phenyl Trimethicone

 It is a silicone that increases hair’s body, suppleness, and sheen, by improving the texture of hair that has been damaged by chemical treatment, according to CosmeticsInfo.org.

Silk Amino Acid

They help to seal the hair cuticle, increase detangling & shine, and acts as a moisturizer by preventing dryness. Used to penetrate the hair to add body and strength.

Hydrolyzed Oat Protein

Derived from oats; adds texture and thickens hair, Soothes, softens, and nourishes it.Restores strength and elasticity. Easily diffuses into the hair shaft to give a fuller, healthier look.

Hydrolyzed Soybean Protein

Known to add strength and manageability to hair. It is able to keep the cuticle smooth, repair and strengthen hair. This vegetable protein helps hair retain moisture. Hydrolyzed soy protein also adds shine, provides ease of combing, and reinforces the hair preventing breakage

Friday night update

Yes! I am making a blog post on a Friday night when I should be out losing myself. I promise I would not be long. I am just here to say that I got two new products today. Conditioners actually. Here's to second chances, I decided to give the Organics Root Stimulator Replenishing conditioner another go. Secondly,I added the Organic Root Stimulator Hair Mayonnaise as promised in a previous post. Stay tuned for a review.

How to 'cheat' a roller set?

In my previous wash day post I expressed my reluctance to do roller-sets. Few days ago I was surfing the internet when I saw a blog post "Pony tail roller set",instantly it caught my attention. I decided to read all there is about it. To further satisfy my curiosity I looked for you tube video to enhance my understanding of the technique. My next wash day I plan to try it. Here are some pictures I stumbled upon.

It is not necessary

Since I am on my hair journey these are things I deem unnecessary or bandwagons I would not jump on.

1. Sulfate free shampoo - Personally,I think that sulfates are vital in my regimen because I use products with silicons and mineral oil. After a week or two of continuously moisturizing and sealing the hair needs to be cleansed. I see sulfate free shampoos as dish washing liquid without sulfate. Imagine that! I have been using my sulfate shampoo for almost 2 years now and I have been seeing growth and there was no breakage. I think that using a sulfate shampoo just requires you to put back the moisture that was lost during the shampooing step. On top of that I newly discovered pre-shampoo treatment  which offers some conditioning which prevents sulfates from having its way with my hair.

2.Co-washing-I never did it while I was relaxed and still reaped benefits. I did this when I big chopped only to pop my curls. After I grew out of that phase I discontinued. Washing and deep conditioning every 1-2 weeks is enough.

3.Stretching- No matter how much you write an article on ways to stretch I would still not be interested. I tried this once and lets say I loss more than I gained. They say it makes the hair thicker. Obviously it would feel that way in the roots area but I think no technique or product can give you what is not in your gene pool. I relax anyway from 6-8 weeks and my hair is just fine. The creators of relaxers knew what they were saying when they said touch up can be done from 6 weeks and beyond.

4. Tea/Coffee Rinse- At this point I am skeptical about it.I would rather resort to a protein treatment to combat shedding.

Wash day (5 weeks & 1 day post)

I am sorry to say that wash days are very tiring days for me. I no longer look forward to washing my hair,especially roller-setting. I feel like I just do not have time for that. I know the feeling is bad but I guess I got over the hype. Today I did the regular steps. I did a pre-shampoo treatment with my Organics Cholesterol Tea-Tree oil and it stuck to my hair like glue. That product and I have a love hate relationship. Sometimes it will rinse clear other times it just would not. I think it is time to set that treatment aside. As a result of it sticking to my hair I shampooed once with my clarifying shampoo and shampooed two more times using my moisturizing shampoo. Shampooing was followed by a protein treatment using Organics Hair Mayonnaise which I am almost out of. Then I used up my last pack of SoftSheen Carson Deep Conditioning Masque. After I applied my leaving conditioner, I could not get myself to do a roller-set so I air dried my hair and flat ironed it passing the flat iron over it only once to minimize the risk of heat damage.

what is my ultimate hair goal?

I honestly do not want extremely long hair. I want to get to  Armpit length to Bra Strap length. I believe those length are very manageable and can be styled a certain way. The ultimate style I want to to do with my real hair is the side braid. Once I can achieve that look my hair journey will end.

SoftSheen Carson Optimum Care Salon Collect Deep Conditioning Masque

This conditioner was actually the first moisturizing conditioner I implemented into my regimen. My hair stylist was the one who recommended it. I washed my hair today and decided to use the last pack. I really like it but I did not repurchase because of its packaging. Hence the reason for the Hollywood's Beauty Cholesterol. I tend to wash my hair frequently and one pack per wash just cannot cut it because each pack is $7 dollars while my newest deep conditioner is $12 dollars for a 20 ounce jar. A win win right? If it came in a bigger container it would have been a staple conditioner because the results are phenomenal. When it touches your scalp it tingles which I believe would help to stimulate growth. It has a thick,white and creamy consistency,which is easy to rinse out and leaves your hair buttery soft and smooth to the touch. If SoftSheen Carson decides to repackage I would definitely repurchase it.

Hollywood Beauty Olive Cholesterol Deep Conditioning Creme Review

It is cheap but it works. This product smells like candy,simply sweet and welcoming. The consistency is different not the typical creamy consistency you are accustomed too. I deep conditioned using this product for 20 minutes with a dash of Extra Virgin Olive Oil. It was easy to rinse out and after rinsing out my hair felt slightly soft to the touch and even softer as my hair dries. Would I recommend this? Yes,its a cheap conditioner and does what it says except for the "super shine". Remember it is through trial and error we actually learn what our hair likes

Wash day (almost 4 weeks post)

I decided to wash my hair today which took many different turns. I pre-pooed using my Organic Hair Mayonnaise,shampooed twice and followed up with my newly purchased Hollywood Beauty Olive Cholesterol to incorporate some moisture into my regimen. It was the first time I pre-pooed using a protein treatment. I am not sure if I would do it again. I also want to use up that product, maybe that was motivation to use it a pre-shampoo treatment. At the end of the wash my hair felt soft and strong. Also I tried  wet wrapping my hair for the very first time and I like it. My hair came out straight and I did not have to use any heat tools to perfect the look. It came out well. On wash days to come, I believe I would be resorting to this method more often because it is easy and less time consuming compared to alternative means.

Hair Goals

• Armpit Length by October,2013

• Finish some products:

1. Organics by Africa's Best Hair Mayonnaise
2. Organics by Africa's Best Cholesterol Tea-Tree Oil

• Stick to what WORKS!!!

Hair Haul (3)

The last time I went shopping I got myself this deep conditioner. It is more of a replacement for Optimum's Deep Conditioning Masque. It served me well but for an unemployed graduate its beyond my pocket. We shall see how this one goes. Depending on the result it would become a staple in my regimen.Stay tuned for a review!:)

Organics by Africa's Best Hair Mayonnaise VS Organic Root Stimulator Hair Mayonnaise

Organic Root Stimulator Hair Mayonnaise

Water Aqua, Glycerin, Polyquaternium 37, Propylene Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate,PPG-1 Trideceth-6, Dimethicone PEG-7 Cocoate, Behentrimonium Methosulfate,Cetearyl Alcohol, Safflower Seed Oil, Hydrolyzed Collagen, Olive Oil, Lanolin Oil,Tridecyl Stearate, Neopentyl Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate,Tridecyl Trimellitate,C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate Dicetyldimonium Chloride, Wheat Germ Oil, Phenyl Trimethicone, Panthenol (Vitamin B5), Cholesterol, Nettle,Paprika Extract, Cetyl Alcohol, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Dimethicone, Egg Powder Ovum, Fragrance, Benzyl Benzoate,d-Limonene, LINALOOL, DMDM Hydantoin, Propylene Glycol, Diazolidinyl Urea, Methyl Paraben, , Propyl Paraben,Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Methylchloroisothiazolinone,Yellow #6, Yellow #5

Organics by Africa's Best Hair Mayonnaise

Water,Glycerin,ParaffinumLiquidum (Mineral Oil),Dicetyldimonium Chloride ,Polyquaternium  32, Lanolin Oil ,Behentrimonium Methosulfate ,Olive Oil ,Cetyl Alcohol,DMDM Hydantoin ,Cetearyl Alcohol,Phenyl trimethicone , Fragrance ,Dimethicone PEG-8 Laurate ,Oregano Leaf, Carrot Seed Oil,Cholesterol, Soluble Collagen,Tocopherol, Egg Powder ,Panthenol,Safflower Seed OiI, CL19140(Yellow 5),CL42090(Blue1),CL16035(Red 40),Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Horsetail) Extract ,Nettle Extract

Hydrolyzed Collagen - Adds body, resiliency, shine, and manageability as well as reduced static charge also provides moisturizing benefits. Used to strengthen hair structure. It is the primary element for hair elasticity.

These are considered to be protein treatments for damaged over-processed hair which are not of equal strength. One seems to be a mere replica of the other. For about 2 years I have been using Africa's Best Hair Mayonnaise. My hair is not breaking but I think I am up for a change. Yes, I know about the statement if it ain't broke don't fix it. After endless research I am convinced that one's regimen should consist of a medium-heavy protein just to give the hair that extra TLC that other or lighter conditioners may not be able to give. After looking at the composition of each product the ORS Mayonnaise is more of a medium protein treatment while its competitor is on the lighter side. The vast majority  of a product is consist of the first 5-7 ingredients. Simply put the Africa's Best Mayonnaise is not that effective,at least for what I want it to do. So the search begins for a stronger protein in my regimen.

Length Check

Did you know?

I was just doing some research based on "deep", "nourishing" or "intensive" treatments whether protein or moisture. Let me just say this,it is nothing but a play on words. A mere marketing scheme, to capitalize on one of the major P's in marketing which is "promotion". It is human nature to purchase a product due to elaborate promotions. On to the meat of the matter. After hair leaves the scale it is dead. Yes,DEAD! The hair is alive whilst in the follicle but after that it is consider to be dead. When we die,we do not eat. I wonder why?Well it is the same with the hair. Also, those deep and intensive treatments that promises to combat damage do not really combat such damages. It is more of a "temporary" fix than a permanent one. Hence the big urge for frequent conditioning of the hair. Some of the product ingredients simply fill chipped gaps and split ends but wears away over a period of time. Where moisture is concerned some ingredients from the conditioner is left back which smooths the cuticle, that is often soft to the touch. So what happens to the damaged hair?Eventually we end up trimming it. Have you ever had a bad case of breakage? I did, and the solution was to cut a couple of inches of my hair to combat that breakage. So now you know,there is no said pot of gold. For healthy hair you need to stay on top of your conditioning. Just thought you should know...

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Vitale Olive Oil Hair Mayonnaise Review

I think I have found the one. Where do I begin? I used this product before but it was so long ago I forgot how it worked. Anyways, this product is cost effective. Thirty (30) ounces for under 25 dollars you cannot beat that. It left my hair feeling very soft, manageable and strengthened at the same time. I Love it!!Yes!! I love it!!!Oh! I saw reviews where people complained about the flakes. Once you rinse your hair properly that should not be an issue. It smells good too. You should definitely get this. It's a keeper!!!