Search Results: Christina Patrice
Every naturalista has a must-have stash. You know, those products, accessories, and tools you can’t just make it without. Although this list could have easily been 25 or 30 things I can’t live without, I took a good hard look at everything I own, and narrowed down the 10 most essential and important things for my natural hair. Enjoy!
My curly hair can’t live without…
1. Drain Cover/Hair Trap
I’m a shower washer. I can’t stand washing my hair in the sink, I never feel like I can reach the back and middle of my hair effectively, and I can’t find a hose extension to fit my faucets. To avoid weekly appointments with a plumber (liquid or live”>, I invested a whopping $1.50 into this nifty little device to cover my shower drain twice a week when I wash my hair. It catches all my shed hairs, which also helps me keep track of how much hair I’m losing on wash day. A nifty little hack: if your drain is not inverted, just flip the trap upside down and it works just the same.
PHOTO COURTESY OF AMAZON
2. Q-Redew
Ever since this handheld wonder waltzed into my life nearly a year ago, my hair are regimen has been full steam ahead (pun intended”>. The Q-Redew revolutionized my regimen, especially while I was transitioning. Using it for everything from prepoo and detangling, to blowouts and refreshing, the handheld steamer has been nothing short of amazing. Thanks to my Q-Redew, I don’t spend money on refresher products, and my wash and go’s are full of multi-day epicness. Need more convincing about the Q-Redew? Click here.
3. Bonnet Dryer
When I got my Curlformers from Hairflair, they were generous enough to send me a Softhood because they were very aware that natural hair takes 82 years to dry and set for a style.
Glory! Although it is huge and designed for use with Curlformers, I’ve used it for everything from deep conditioning to allowing my satin strip braids to set and dry. While there are others out there, this particular Softhood dryer model has several advantages over those you’d find at places like Sally’s. The first major advantage is mobility. Instead of having to sit stationary under a dryer, I am able to move my head about, and even roam as far as my blow dryer cord will allow. The next advantages are in the design itself. It has a drawstring around the head, for snug fit, and a chinstrap. Laugh now, but that chin strap is revolutionary. No flying off the head for me – even at high speed! To see the Softhood in action, click here (about 6 minutes in to the Curlformers tutorial”>!
PHOTO COURTESY OF AMAZON
4. Satin Strips
Satin strips are something like a savior for me. Satin strip braid outs were my go-to transitioning style. They were perfect for me to create super-blended texture and style. When done correctly, satin strip braidouts have the awesome ability to make your transitioning tresses look 100% textured and natural! But back to the strips themselves. They are affordable, easy to make, and they can be as thick or as thin as you need them. How? Just grab a square or rectangular satin scarf and cut strips about 1.5 inches thick. I’ll be doing an updated 100% natural satin strip braid-out soon, but for now click here to check out my transitioner tutorial version!
5. Satin Pillowcase
My buddy, my buddy, wherever I go, she goes! Seriously. I sleep on a satin pillowcase every night, even when I wear a scarf or bonnet. I take my pillowcase whenever I’m going away for a weekend, or out of town. Available anywhere for ten bucks or less, the pillowcase guarantees that I don’t wake up with dry hair or breakage.
PHOTO COURTESY OF AMAZON
6. tgin Moisture Rich Sulfate-Free Shampoo
As a product junkie, it is really hard to narrow down what products are absolute must-haves…because that is subject to change every time I come across a new brand or product offering. But in 2014, I’m trying to change that a little bit. Click here for part 1 of my 2014 must-haves. But of that list, there is one shampoo that I can never, ever, ever, EVER run out of: tgin’s Moisture Rich Sulfate Free Shampoo. Hands down, it is my favorite shampoo of ALL TIME. All time. It is super gentle, yet effective at cleansing hair and scalp. It has tons of slip, and will make your hair feel like you don’t need a conditioner. Seriously… Get tgin’s awesome shampoo here.
7. Bobby Pins
My boyfriend thinks I have a problem. I have bobby pins everywhere. At home, the motherload. In my car. In my gym bag. In my purse when I carry one. In my work bag. Sometimes, even in the back pocket of my jeans. I never know when I’ll need to pull my hair back, or do an impromptu updo. If you see me in the streets and need a bobby pin, chances are I’ll have one for you!
8. Jamila Henna Art Quality Henna
I fell in love with henna before I began my transition to natural hair. I loved it for the gorgeous red tint, but even more for the strength and scalp psoriasis relief I experienced when using it. The only thing I couldn’t stand about the henna I was using at the time (Light Mountain brand”> was the twigs and leaf bits that would get stuck in my hair, and take days to rinse and shake out. Thanks to a fellow blogger, I was introduced to Jamila Body Art Quality Henna a few short months later. I haven’t looked back since. I still do monthly henna treatments. Click here to see how I mix it all together.
Read: Should I Color My Hair With Henna?
9. TIGI Catwalk Curlesque Curls Rock Amplifier
I honestly didn’t expect to think I would have to always have at least 2 bottles of Curls Rock Amplifier in my life at all times. But I do. Thank you, Ulta. If it had not been for the buy 2, get 1 free sale, I would have never known the goodness of this product for curl definition. I have some favorite curl definers (like Soultanicals Curl Blaze Hair Glaze and tgin Twist and Define Cream”>, but Curls Rock Amplifier takes the cake as my #1 hands down absolute favorite in this category. Sure, it is expensive (weighing in at $17, 5.07oz”>, but a wash and go that lasts 6 days is worth it. Good thing I stocked up to last me through another sale.
10. Instagram
What? Seriously, Christina? Your curls can’t live without Instagram? Well theoretically they can, and my transitioner tresses chugged right along without filtered photos and memes. But in all honesty, my journey to natural hair would not have been the same without it. Instagram has not only allowed me to photographically document my hair journey and what product combinations work for me (as a product junkie, I have a hard time remembering what goes with what”>, the photo-based social network has been a place of hairspiration, community building, and information sharing. I’ve gotten the opportunity to connect with some amazing bloggers because of Instagram. I’ve been able to work with some amazing natural hair small business brands because of Instagram. Heck, the design on my nails is because of Instagram!
FOLLOW me on my Instagram, @ManeObjective and my blog, ManeObjective.com!
Note: I am not a licensed medical professional, and do not take my advice as a prescription for any supplement. As with anything, check with your healthcare provider first.
Truth telling time: healthy hair grows from the inside out.
It doesn’t matter what miracle oils, conditioners, butters, pomades, and treatments you put on your hair – without proper nutrition, they mean nothing for your hair. No, that doesn’t mean you need to drop your current nutrition plan and go vegan or paleo…although those are totally viable options if you so choose.
The idea here is that what you put into your body is what you get out of it. Without certain vitamins, minerals, and other elements, your hair and body cannot be in optimal condition and health.
Of course, it is always best to get the vital nutrients your body needs from fresh, whole food sources. Unfortunately, unless you have your own farm, garden, or participate in a co-op that has the freshest produce, getting 100% of what you need will be virtually impossible. Sadly, many of the foods we eat (even minimally or unprocessed ones”> lose a portion of their nutritive value from the time they are harvested until they make it on our plates.
Luckily, all hope is not lost. There are plenty of vitamins, herbs, and supplements that can be taken to well, supplement your diet and promote healthy, strong hair growth. Check out these healthy hair must-haves, and take advantage of all they have to offer!
Biotin
When most people first look for a vitamin or supplement to work on hair growth from the “inside,” they are pointed in the direction of Biotin.
Biotin aka Vitamin H supports the growth and strengthening of healthy hair and nails. Biotin helps stimulate the hair follicles, promoting growth while also strengthening the cortex of the hair and inhibiting the enzymes that cause hair loss.
Beyond beauty benefits, Biotin is also beneficial in metabolizing fats and amino acids (energy production”>, as well as stabilizing blood sugar levels. If you need a gentle pick-me-up, Biotin is a beneficial booster for both body and hair!
Typically relegated to the section of the health store related to joint health, MSM really shines when it comes to hair growth. In fact, it has been proven to lengthen the growth (anagen”> phase of hair! The life cycle of your hair consists of 3 phases: growing, resting, and shedding. A longer growing phase (before resting and shedding”> means longer hair. As far as health benefits, MSM provides the essential sulfur foundation that the body needs to form proteins and connective tissue. It also helps synthesize and activates vitamins, and maintain the immune system. MSM is helpful in relieving swelling, inflammation and pain.
Omegas
Omegas burst on to the scene as fatty acid powerhouses that can ease a number of bodily ailments and issues. Omegas 3, 6, and 9 also pack a powerful punch for the hair.
Omega 3 in particular has the most benefits when taken internally. Omega 3 helps improve hair elasticity, nourish follicles, increase hair strength and thickness, improve dry/flaky scalp, and improve scalp circulation (leading to stimulation and growth”>.
Even more exciting, Omega 3 can help re-start hair growth, and reverse or prevent hair loss!
Vitamins A and E
Vitamins A and E are antioxidant powerhouses that can do wonders for the hair (and skin too”>. Both vitamins are critical to skin regeneration – and for healthy hair, you need a healthy scalp, and the scalp is…skin!
Vitamin A supports skin health and repair, which is great for those who suffer from dry scalp, psoriasis, dandruff, eczema, or seborrehic dermatitis. Additionally, Vitamin A helps soothe irritated scalps, and aids in sebum production (your scalp’s very own conditioner”>. Vitamin E supports healthy hair growth, and is believed to help prevent hair loss. When combined with fatty acids (like Omega 3″>, Vitamin E acts as a preservative, preventing free-radicals from eliminating vitamin effectiveness.
Of course, anything with antioxidant and free-radical fighting properties is going to help fight signs of aging within the hair and body!
Almost every day, there seems to be a new miracle ingredient that promises to revolutionize haircare; powerful moisturizing, 5,5000x stronger hair, frizz-banishing, super nourishing, mega growing – the list goes on and on. Usually the new miracle ingredient is some sort of uber exotic oil that costs $40 for .5oz, and in truth, won’t be any more discernibly different than your run of the mill virgin coconut oil that cost $7.
Today, we’re going to take a different approach and talk about an ingredient that:
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Is essential to healthy hair and growth
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Is naturally occurring
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Can be replenished fairly inexpensively
What ingredient is this? Ceramides.
What Ceramides Are and What They Do
Ceramides are one of three types of oils found inside the cuticle of the hair. For those that care, 18 MEA (methyl eicosanoic acid”> and Cholesterol are the other two. Ceramides exist inside the hair cuticle to act as a cement of sorts, keeping the hair in tact. Hair cuticles are often thought of as densely packed shingles on a roof, and ceramides are the glue that keeps the shingles together (flattened, as opposed to raised”>.
Why Ceramides Are Important
Hair strength, elasticity, moisture retention, porosity, shine, smoothness, and resistance to weathering/breakage all depend upon how flattened cuticles are. Raised cuticles allow moisture to escape more readily, increasing porosity and the likelihood of breakage and weathering.
Note: Hair naturally weathers over time, but this can be accelerated when cuticles do not lie flat. On the other hand, when cuticles lay flat, hair is shinier, retains moisture better, feels smoother, porosity and elasticity are improved, and of course, the hair is stronger. All of this is possible with proper amounts of ceramides in the hair.
If Ceramides Are Naturally Occurring, Why Do I Need A Product With Ceramides In It?
Much like other elements of hair, through chemical processes (coloring”>, heat (blow drying, flat ironing”>, washing, and general handling can weather and deplete the amount of naturally occurring ceramides in the hair. Utilizing products with ceramides in them will help restore proper balance within the hair, and minimize damage.
It should also be noted that ceramides are most beneficial for hair that has been chemically treated–relaxed or colored. Natural hair benefits from products containing ceramides too; it is just that as with any conditioning, nourishing, or restructuring ingredient, the more damaged the hair, the better it works.
How Can I Incorporate Ceramides Into My Regimen Without Breaking The Bank?
Luckily, ceramides are readily available in tons of products – either naturally occurring or synthetic. Both are valuable to hair, but the synthetic ceramides more closely mimic those inside the hair cuticle than plant based ones. When determining if your hair products contain ceramides, look for the following ingredients:
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2-oleamido
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1-3 octadecanedio
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Wheat Germ Oil
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Safflower Oil
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Grapeseed Oil
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Sunflower Oil
- Hemp Seed Oil
PHOTO FAIRWAY MARKET
Here are some products that contain ceramides as well:
WRITTEN BY CHRISTINA PATRICE OF MANEOBJECTIVE
For the majority of the time I spent transitioning, I never bothered purchasing a leave-in conditioner. Not a single one.
As far as the blogs were concerned, leaving some of my regular conditioner in my hair after washing, or mixing some concoction of conditioner, water, and oil was good enough. While there are certainly benefits to the aforementioned methods, now that I am completely natural, I tend to rely more on products that are labeled exclusively as post wash leave-ins. Why? We’ll get to that in a second. But first, let’s break down a few facts:The Foundation of Moisture Retention
I’m sure you are familiar with the LOC, LCO, and other methods of layering products to maximize moisture retention.
The L in both methods is often interchangeably referred to as “liquid” or “leave-in”. Essentially, the idea is to first apply a water-based product to the hair.
I like to stick firmly to leave-ins for this particular step of the method, because I can be assured that the water content in the product moisturizes my hair, while the conditioning agents soften, tame frizz, and help eliminate snarls and tangles. All the while I can be confident that the product won’t weigh my hair down, coat it too much, or make it feel waxy when dry.
It’s Not All the Same
Leave-in conditioners are actually formulated differently. They tend to be lighter, and more watery than standard rinse-out conditioners. Regular and deep conditioners are designed to have certain ingredients stick to your hair after washing out, which can lend itself to buildup if used regularly as a leave-in.
Leave-in conditioners are designed to well, be left in the hair and do not contribute so easily to said buildup. Because rinse out conditioners are “stronger” in a sense, they also have the potential to cause irritation on the scalp due to being left in.
And depending on which conditioner you use and how much, it can result in white flaking on the hair (from personal experience”>. Both irritation and white flaking are unlikely with specified leave-ins, because they are created to serve that exact purpose in remaining on the hair.
[prodmod]
Do You Really Need Another Product?
The honest truth is, maybe. I know, such a cop-out answer, right? But it is true.
Whether you need a leave-in, DIY concoction, or to repurpose regular conditioner is totally dependent upon your hair and what works best for you.
In my DIY days, I found that concocting my own mix was perfect for moisturizing and softening my transitioning tresses that I wore in protective styles 80% of the time.
But as a fully Type 3-something natural who relies heavily on 4 and 5 day wash and go’s, I can’t afford to risk buildup from regular conditioner. Nor do I want to further aggravate my scalp psoriasis.
So, leave-in conditioner it is for me! But if you are going to go the DIY or regular conditioner route, heed the following:
DIY Conditioner
If you make your own mix of conditioner, water, and oils, be sure to make only enough for a few days (3 max”> at a time. Because the preservatives in the product are diluted from their original formulation (due to the water and oil”>, your mix can go bad in a few days. Prolong the shelf life with tea tree oil, Vitamin E oil, and store it in a cool place away from sunlight (fridge not recommended for mixes containing oils that are solid when cold”>.
Repurposing Product
If you are going to use regular conditioner as a leave-in, avoid the scalp (it is best to start 1 – 2 inches from the scalp”> when applying product. Also, avoid using conditioners with silicones in the first 5 ingredients if you do not regularly use shampoo. If you are a regular shampooer, silicones are not an issue.
Leave-In Recommendations
In case you were wondering, my favorite leave-in conditioners right now are
As a product junkie and blogger, I’ve been very aware of Jane Carter Solution products – especially since they are available at places I frequent like Target and Vitamin Shoppe. I never made the leap to try out any of the Jane Carter Solution products, primarily because I wasn’t entirely convinced that they would work for my 3b/c hair.
Imagine my surprise when my boyfriend’s mom told me that Incredible Curls was her new staple, and I had to try it. So I caved in. We took advantage of the Jane Carter Solution online sale, and while I waited for mine to arrive, I went ahead to Target and purchased a tube.
I told you I was a product junkie. Was my “while I wait” purchase justified? Keep reading to find out.
Ingredient List
Water (Aqua”>, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea”> Butter, Glycerin, Glycerly Stearate, Hydroxypropy Trimonium Chloride (Guar Gum”>, Ceteareth 20, Simmondsia Chinesis (Jojoba”> Seed Oil, Persea Gratissim (Avocado”> Oil, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Cetyl Alcohol, Citric Acid, Caprylyl Glycol, Sorbic Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Anthemis Noblis Flower (Chamomile”> Extract, Symphytum Officinal (Comfrey”> Leaf Extract, Equisetum Arvense (Horsetail”> Extract, Urtica Dioica (Nettle”> Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary”> Leaf Extract, Humulus Lupulus (Hops”> Extract, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Tocopherol (Vitamin E”>.
Ingredient Analysis-
Shea Butter: Emollient fat from the nut of the East or West African shea nut tree used to moisturize and soften hair.
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Glycerin: Vegetable-based humectant, absorbs water from the air to help maintain and retain moisture in hair and prevent dryness and breakage.
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Glyceryl Stearate: Glycerol ester of stearic acid (coconut derived”> that is an emulsifying agent and surfactant.
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Guar Gum: Legume-based thickener and conditioner that does not build up on the hair.
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Ceteareth 20: Emulsifier derived from fatty alcohols, used primarily to mix oil/water/alcohols, and help evenly disperse ingredients in a product.
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Jojoba Seed Oil: Emollient that coats the hair shaft (its molecular structure prevents it from penetrating the cuticle”> and aids in providing slip and protection. Jojoba oil is also the closest in composition to the sebum that our scalp naturally produces.
Availability
I’ve seen Incredible Curls on CurlMart and on shelves at Target, but I purchased my particular tube at www.janecartersolution.com during one of her recent sales.
Affordability
On CurlMart Incredible Curls is currently available for $15.00 for an 8oz tube, while the same size product on the Jane Carter Solution website is $20. Considering my innate heavy-handedness, I’d feel a little better about a 12oz tube of product for the $20 price tag.
Product Claim/Description
“Curly wash & wear styling cream for fine to medium curly hair. Incredible Curls is the perfect curl definer for finer curly, wavy, and coily hair. It gives your hair great hold, drying soft and shiny with great curl definition. It is a great product for curly hair that gets weighed down easy. It’s the perfect creamy consistency, making the application process quick and simple. Shea butter and Avocado oil seal moisture into the cuticle giving you bouncy, shiny, manageable curls. This product never flakes or builds up.”
Performance/Delivery
Although I do not have fine hair, I was hopeful that Incredible Curls would provide some sort of definition and hold. Because it is creamy in consistency, I did not expect tons of hold on my hair. I followed the instructions and applied the product liberally (and I mean liberally”> to my freshly detangled and cowashed hair while it was dripping wet. The product did go on easily, but it does have a slightly tacky quality to it. Not quite sticky, not thick and goopy, but an ever so slight stick. If you rub a little between your fingers and pull them apart, you’ll see what I mean. After my hair dried, it was definitely soft and defined, although not as defined as I would like for it to be. This product is definitely for fine textures of hair. I had to use half the tube to get through all of my hair, for a moderate hold as the end result. I didn’t particularly mind though – all it meant is that I would have day 3 or 4 wash and go hair on day 1.
Drawbacks
I’m not wild about the fragrance. I’m not sure if it is the chosen essential oil blend, or the extracts themselves that result in the earthy, herbal cologne-esque fragrance. The scent isn’t overbearing, just not what I expected. Luckily, it doesn’t linger in the hair.
Bonuses
I do like the fact that if I am seeking a more defined curl and more hold, Incredible Curls plays nicely with other products. I can layer it with tgin Twist and Define Cream, or Soultanicals Curl Blaze Hair Glaze without issue (no flakes or balls of white goop”>, and get a wash and go that lasts 4 days or more.
Bottom Line
Incredible Curls is probably one of those products I will revisit when my hair is longer, and has more weight to it. As it stands, I can’t quite fit it into my regimen, but it is by no means a bad product. I will definitely finish out the tube, and there is always the possibility that I will buy more if it goes on sale. It is truly a product for fine curly hair, or those who seek big hair on day 1. It won’t give you multi-day hold, but it will definitely define your curls.
Best Practices
If you’re going to try Incredible Curls, I definitely recommend applying the product to soaking wet hair. It will not clump curls together the same way on dry hair that it will on wet. Also, be sure your hair is detangled thoroughly, as the product does not have a lot of slip.
Happy curl defining!
For more product reviews and curly hair tips, visit ManeObjective.com.
If I had to describe the Cream and Coco line in one word, it would have to be luxury. Not because it is incredibly expensive, but because the line offers up sophisticated, upscale, and one-of-a-kind products that appeal to the newbie natural, the seasoned vet, and everyone in between.
Cream and Coco is a family-owned product line, and brainchild of Victoria Vick. Victoria has always had a passion for natural body care that was intensified during her time of studying science as an undergraduate in college. Since her young days crushing dandelions and daffodils, Cream and Coco has grown from a hobby to a full-scale brand with dozens of high quality products for hair, skin, and baby. Cream and Coco products never contain petroleum, mineral oil, and parabens. All fragrances used are phthalate free.
To test drive the Cream and Coco line, I was sent a small collection of moisturizers and cleansers, including two soap bars; including the infamous “Pink Cookie”. Read more on that here. But for the purpose of this review, let’s focus on two kinds of products naturals are always on the prowl for: gentle cleansers and effective moisturizers.
CocoMallow Cowash Fluff
Description
The CocoMallow Fluff has all the yummy hair softening detangling benefits of our cowash bar blended into a rich cream. Packed with organic cocoa butter that slides across your hair, but rinses cleanly away in the water leaving amazingly soft hair.
Ingredients
Water, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Cetyl Alcohol, Butylene Glycol, Cocoa Seed Butter, Shea Butter, Apple Cider Vinegar, Cetearyl Alcohol, Stearalkonium Chloride, Aloe Leaf Juice, Avocado Oil, Glycerin, Parfum, Cocoa, Lemongrass, Rosemary, Nettle Leaf Powder, Marshmallow Root, Caprylyl Glycol, and Sorbic Acid
Top Ingredients 411
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Behentrimonium Methosulfate: Mild detangling ingredient made from the rapeseed (canola”>. Known for great detangling without leaving product buildup on hair.
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Cetyl Alcohol: Fatty alcohol and emollient conditioners known for giving products a creamy, thick texture and feel.
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Butylene Glycol: Slip-providing agent and humectant similar to propylene glycol, but lighter.
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Cocoa Seed Butter: Antioxidant rich butter that improves shine, body, strength, and elasticity in hair. Also a powerful emollient and softening agent, and provides some protection against UV rays.
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Shea Butter: Emollient fat from the nut of the East or West African shea nut tree, used to moisturize and soften hair.
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Apple Cider Vinegar: Raw and unfiltered vinegar with an acidic pH, which serves as an antifungal and antimicrobial agent, promoting scalp health. Also helps lay down the cuticle, promotion smooth, shiny hair that better retains moisture.
Performance
In all the time I’ve spent blogging and becoming a product junkie, I’ve never seen anything quite like the CocoMallow Cowash Fluff. It has a pudding-like consistency, and smells of a decadent perfume. It definitely fits the cowash mold, but where most cowashes are white and focused on looking like conditioner, Cream and Coco takes pride in making their cowash stand out. The cowash is effective for gentle cleansing (and great smelling hair”>, if you don’t have a lot of buildup or just want a quick cleanse between washes. I wouldn’t recommend it to do heavy lifting and removing serious buildup. It leaves hair super soft, shiny, and feeling as though conditioner isn’t necessary. I has some pretty good detangling ability as well. If you want to try a different kind of cowash, check this one out. You won’t regret it!
Island Nectar Cleansing Milk
Description
Creamy coconut soap blended with rich oils and shea butter to gently cleanse and moisturize at the same time.
Ingredients
Water, Saponified Oils of Soybean, Olive, and Coconut, Hydrogenated Soybean Oil, Castor Seed Oil, Shea Butter, Aloe Leaf Juice, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Cetyl Alcohol, Butylene Glycol, Honeyquat, Parfum, Panthenol, Xantham Gum, Amla, Propylene Glycol, Diazolidnyl Urea, Idopropynyl, and Butylcarbamate
Top Ingredients 411
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Saponified Oils: Oils cured with a base product (generally sodium hydroxide”> that produces soap and glycerin.
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Hydrogenated Soybean Oil: Cost-effective carrier oil of the soybean that can be used to soften, nourish and impart shine to hair.
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Castor Seed Oil: Pressed oil of the castor seed that has antibacterial and antifungal properties, that can help with dandruff and other scalp ailments. It is also a great moisture sealant, and promotes hair thickening and growth.
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Shea Butter: Emollient fat from the nut of the East or West African shea nut tree, used to moisturize and soften hair.
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Aloe Leaf Juice: Acts as a natural conditioning agent that restores the hair’s sheen, luster, and shine. It not only makes the hair soft, but it also enhances strength and suppleness. The low pH of aloe vera helps seal the cuticle and retain moisture within the hair.
Performance
Island Nectar Cleansing Milk is something like a sweet tropical dream. I used it from head to toe, and I can’t stop sniffing the bottle. It definitely does not look, feel, or smell like a shampoo. It is incredibly versatile and truly can be used from head to toe. It is a great alternative to both shampoo and body wash, for a gentle cleanse that doesn’t dry either out. It is definitely better at lifting buildup on the hair than CocoMallow Cowash Fluff, but does not leave the hair stripped – a total winner in my book! It also had a nice amount of slip, and helped keep my hair from getting super tangled during cleansing.
Gooseberry Aloe Pudding
Description
Soothing botanicals, amla and avocado oils nourish curls giving definition, body, hold, and shine. This pudding is thick & rich, perfect for stretching out curls that want to shrink up and rolls with naturally wavy hair patterns. It gives fabulous hold without making hair hard or crunchy. Defines almost every curly hair type with beautiful results.
Ingredients
Pure water, Persea Gratissima (avocado”> Oil, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Cetyl Alcohol, Butylene Glycol, Butyrospermum Parkii (shea butter”>, glycerin, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Cera Alba, xanthum gum, perfume, dl-Panthenol, hydrolyzed oat protein, Equisetum Arvense Extract (horsetail”>, amla, Ulmus fulva (slippery elm”>, Phenoxyethanol (and”> Caprylyl Glycol (and”> Sorbic Acid
Top Ingredients 411
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Avocado Oil: Moisturizing oil extract that helps improve elasticity, shine, and softness.
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Behentrimonium Methosulfate: Mild detangling ingredient made from the rapeseed (canola”>. Known for great detangling without leaving product buildup on hair.
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Cetyl Alcohol: Fatty alcohol and emollient conditioners known for giving products a creamy, thick texture and feel.
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Butylene Glycol: Slip-providing agent and humectant similar to propylene glycol, but lighter.
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Shea Butter: Emollient fat from the nut of the East or West African shea nut tree, used to moisturize and soften hair.
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Glycerin: Vegetable-based humectant.
Performance
This is another one I can’t stop sniffing. The sweet berry vanilla fragrance is especially welcome at this time of year. Formerly known as Curls for Days, this thick creamy pudding is an exceptional moisturizer and curl hydrator. My hair loves avocado oil and aloe vera, so this product was a welcome alternative to a lot of coconut oil based products out there. It definitely defined my curls, but didn’t provide much in the way of hold. I tend to gravitate toward gels and jellies for wash and go’s because the fixatives in them allow my curls to last 3-5 days. If you are looking for definition and moisture without hold, this is a great product for that. I love how moisturized my hair was, so I will definitely continue using the product. I just know that to get the kind of long-term style I want, I need to add a defining product on top. It can also be used to refresh curls and add moisture to hair mid-week. Did I mention that it smells heavenly?
All in all, the Cream and Coco line is pretty awesome, and contains some of the most unique products I’ve seen to date. If you’d like to get your Cream and Coco on, visit www.creamandcoco.com!
Product photos courtesy of www.creamandcoco.com.
For more curly product line reviews, visit ManeObjective.com.
I’m sure by now you’ve heard of big name natural and curly hair subscription boxes, like curlBOX and CurlKit. But have you heard of Curl Collection? According to their website, Curl Collection is:
“The ultimate experience for women and kids with curly hair. Sample FULL size products, from the hottest brands, delivered to your door.”
You had me at full size.
As a natural/transitioner (I’m almost there!”> with thick hair and long layers that reach a little beyond bra strap length (BSL for you acronym lovers”>, I get a little frustrated with sample sizes. It’s difficult to determine whether I want to actually spend my money on a product based upon a 1oz sample packet. Enter, Curl Collection with the brilliant idea to ship nothing but full sized product lines to your door. Yes, lines. So not only is everything full-sized, there is some continuity in terms of what you get in the box itself. Let me stop gushing over how much I love the concept and get to the actual review. Here are a few basics:
Founded by Nadja Renise, Curl Collection is built on supporting small business, and getting the hottest brands out to customers at a great price. Curl Collection prides themselves on being ingredient conscious, and promises to never send products with sulfates, parabens, drying alcohol, sulfates, and more. The goal is to help natural women find products and brands their curls will love.
Curls Collection Review
Cost
$35 every other month, or $40 for a one-time box. Both include free shipping.
Frequency
Curl Collection boxes are delivered every other month. The box shown above is the October Box. The December Box is soon to come (I heard it has $80 worth of goodies in it”>.
Contents and Value
- Coconut Sublime Conditioner, 14.5oz ($16″>
- Whipped Cream, 8oz ($17″>
- Curl Ecstasy Hair Tea, 14.5oz ($20″>
All prices are according to the Curls website. The value of the products alone is $53 – which is nearly a $20 savings. So far, so good. Some variations of the Curl Collection box contained a styling product instead of one of the conditioners. Honestly, I wasn’t even mad. With the way I go through conditioner, an extra bottle is always welcome!
Now, on to the actual products. I won’t go into a too-detailed review, because this is about Curl Collection itself. However, the review wouldn’t be complete without some product information!
Coconut Sublime Conditioner
I had been eyeballing this and the Hair Tea at a local beauty supply store, wondering if it was worth giving a try. Short answer: it is a good conditioner. Not phenomenal, but not bad either. I like that Curls chooses to use organic extracts and oils in their products, which plays into the price point. The conditioner has a nice amount of slip, which is great for in-shower detangling. It moisturized my hair, left it soft, and shiny – like a good conditioner should. It was nice to be able to try the Coconut Sublime, just to quell my curiosity.
Whipped Cream
I also had my eyes on whipped cream, curious about what it could do for my hair. Turns out – a LOT! I didn’t expect to love this stuff, but I do. The light, sweet scent is reminiscent of Soultanicals Knot Sauce, and it is a great moisturizer. I used it consistently for my satin strip braid-outs, because it worked so well with EcoStyler gel to keep my hair soft and moisturized for days without weighing it down. Not to mention, the incredibly healthy sheen and shine. I got so many compliments on my hair whenever Whipped Cream was in the mix – seriously! I loved it so much, that it made the list of best moisturizers for transitioning hair.
Curl Ecstasy Hair Tea
Now here is a deep conditioner that is worth the price tag. Even though it is labeled as a heat-activated conditioner, I tried it without heat just to gauge its effectiveness. I. Am. In. LOVE. Seriously, my hair had a love affair with Hair Tea – with and without heat. It is a little thick, but spreads easily. While rinsing out, it has tons of slip and made it ridiculously easy to detangle my hair. My hair was buttery smooth and shiny, soft to the touch, and felt really moisturized. I always say that I shell out extra money for two types of products – curl definers and deep conditioners. Hair Tea is one that I will, without a doubt, be purchasing again. And again.
My conclusion
Overall, my experience with the Curl Collection box was pretty awesome. I like the idea that it only comes bimonthly, which gives you plenty of time to play with and use up the full-sized products. Or if you discover you don’t like a particular product, giving it away doesn’t make you feel as though you’ve lost money – because the box contents are provided at a bargain cost. I would confidently, and without a shadow of a doubt say, that if you are looking for a subscription service with quality contents, great value, and great customer service, Curl Collection is the way to go.
Now, to see if I can get my hands on that December box….
Photos courtesy of Curls.Biz & TheManeObjective
Koils by Nature
Everyone’s talking about Koils by Nature, as many naturals rave over the ultra lush conditioners and butters offered by the small business brand. In fact, one product is even referred to as the other “creamy crack”. With a reputation like that, I had to try it out.
After returning to natural hair in 2007, Koils By Nature founder Pamela Jenkis became incredibly passionate about healthy hair care. Driven and focused by how expensive some natural hair products were, she decided to begin researching, mixing, and testing out her own product blends. After some trial and error, she soon found her mixing stride in 2009. Koils By Nature officially launched in 2010 online, and has expanded to include national and international retailers.
All Koils By Nature products are made by hand with natural ingredients and certified organic essential oils. Koils By Nature products do not contain parabens, sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium laureth sulfate, phthalates, propylene glycol, mineral oil, PABA, petroleum, parrifin, DEA, synthetic color, or animal products.
Refreshing Anti-Dandruff Cleanser: Tea Tree Mint
This was the first product I opened, and I could NOT stop sniffing it. I live for the peppermint aroma, especially during the holiday season. The mint smell is refreshing, but not overbearing, and totally derived from tea tree and peppermint essential oils.
Description:
This sulfate free foaming cleanser that will sooth, purify and stimulate, while removing dandruff from your scalp. The burdock root & bay leaf are natural antiseptics that will rid the scalp of dandruff. The healing properties of the calndelua is excellent for those with sensitive skin. The aloe leaf juice has healing and moisturizing qualities that will leave hair and scalp healthy and beautiful.
Ingredient List:
Distilled water infused with Organic Calendula, Organic Burdock Root, Organic Horsetail, and Organic Nettle Leaf, Aloe Leaf Juice, Potassium Palm Kernelate, Organic Castile Soap, Glycerin, Marshmallow Root Powder, Olive Oil, Grapeseed Oil, Tea Tree Oil, Peppermint Essential Oil
Top Ingredients 411:
- Distilled Water infused with Organic Calendula, Organic Burdock Root, Organic Horsetail, and Organic Nettle Leaf: This water infusion is scalp soothing, contains anti-oxidants, promotes growth and elasticity, and helps improve the strength of hair.
- Aloe Leaf Juice: Acts as a natural conditioning agent that restores the hair’s sheen, luster, and shine. It not only makes the hair soft, but it also enhances strength and suppleness.
- Potassium Palm Kernelate: Potassium salt of fatty acid derived from palm kernel oil that acts as a gentle cleansing agent and thickener.
- Organic Castile Soap: A gentle soap made from vegetable-based fats that cleanses the hair.
- Glycerin: Vegetable-based humectant that attracts water from the air to moisturize and hydrate hair.
- Marshmallow Root Powder: Extraction that creates a slippery, mucous-like substance that adds incredible slip (translation: awesome detangling”>, and contains high amounts of plant proteins for strengthening and conditioning hair.
Performance
For me, this shampoo was honestly love at first pump. I had never shampooed with something that foamed before water was applied to it, so I was unsure of what to expect. To my surprise, it lathered nicely, had tons of slip, and made my hair and scalp feel nice and clean. This shampoo is definitely slippery enough to detangle with, which is huge for me. Although I always detangle prior to getting in the shower, any product that helps keep my hair that way earns an automatic gold star in my book. What’s even better than the slip and scent is how my hair felt after being washed. It was clean, but there wasn’t a single sign of feeling stripped, dry, or any of the other ways hair can feel with even some of the most gentle shampoos. This shampoo has become an immediate staple for me!
Ultra-Moisturizing CocoAloe Deep Conditioner
I’m a sucker for a good deep conditioner. Of all my hair products (and trust me, there’s a lot of them”>, there are two things I’ll shell out more than $10 on: deep conditioner, and curl definers.
Because I’ll spend significantly more on those than any other products in my arsenal, I expect them to deliver. A lot. I need easy application, some detangling ability, a super moisturizing punch, and for my hair to feel buttery smooth after I rinse out.
Description:
Ultra-Moisturizing CocoAloe Deep Conditioner is excellent for color treated hair or for those who apply heat to the hair. Coconut oil is excellent for retaining moisture, preventing breakage and is a natural conditioning agent that provides a protective barrier that will add luster, body, & manageability provide extra moisture so that the hair feels soft and smooth. Hydrolyzed Oat Protein holds 1000x its weight in water and will help your hair retain moisture, and restoring all the vitamins and minerals necessary for healthy hair.
Ingredient List:
Aqua (Distilled Water”>, Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Leaf Juice”> Cetyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut Oil”>, Cocos Nucifera Oil / Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract (Aloe Butter”>, Argania Spinosa (Argan Oil”>, Macadamia integrifolia (Macadamia Nut Oil”>, Vitis vinifera (Grape Seed Oil”>, *Organic Olea Europaea (Olive Oil”>, Mangifera Indica (Mango Alphonso Powder Fruit Extract”>, Hydrolyzed Oat Protein, Kosher Vegetable Glycerin, Potassium sorbate , Salix Nigra (Willow Bark Extract”> Tocopherol (Vitamin E”>, D-Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5″>, Fragrance (Parfum”>, Citric Acid
Top Ingredients 411:
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Water: Moisture.
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Aloe Leaf Juice: Acts as a natural conditioning agent that restores the hair’s sheen, luster, and shine. It not only makes the hair soft, but it also enhances strength and suppleness. Because of Aloe’s low pH, it can also help seal the cuticle to aid in moisture retention and prevent damage.
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Cetearyl Alcohol: Combination of cetyl and stearyl fatty alcohols. Emollient conditioner known for giving products a creamy, thick texture and feel.
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Behentrimonium Methosulfate: Mild detangling ingredient made from the rapeseed (canola”>. Known for great detangling without leaving product buildup on hair.
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Coconut Oil: Oil high in saturated fats (which is why when cold, it is solid”>. One of the few known oils to penetrate the hair shaft and truly moisturize hair. Coconut oil helps to moisturize, seal, prevent breakage, and protein loss.
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Aloe Butter: Combination of Aloe Vera extract and fractionated coconut oil to produce a rich, emollient butter that soothes, strengthens, imparts shine, and improves elasticity and moisture retention in hair.
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Argan Oil: Oil derived from the seeds of the fruit of the Argan tree, touted for high concentrations of vitamins A and E that can help prevent and reverse damage to hair.
Performance
I expected a lot of this deep conditioner, and I must say — it delivered. Sometimes, deep conditioners can be thick and paste-like, which is okay, but having a DC on deck that is easy to work through your hair is a plus.
My hair is in the 3-something range. I don’t always hair type, but when I do… it’s in the 3’s (excuse my lame Dos Equis spin-off joke”>, and loves anything aloe. Juice, gel, butter, or otherwise. So it was almost no surprise that when I rinsed it off, my hair it was shiny, soft, moisturized, and everything that I needed it to be.
The ends of my hair had been feeling frazzled as of late, and I am happy to report that the Ultra-Moisturizing CocoAloe Deep Conditioner fixed that problem right up! I believe that the pH of the conditioner being somewhere between 4.5 and 5 helped really remedy my ends.
Moisturizing Shealoe Leave-In Conditioner
Before this lush leave-in came into my life, I only had one favorite leave-in conditioner. Now I have two. I know there’s a reoccurring theme running through this review – new staples and Holy Grail Must Haves. It may seem crazy, but it’s all true. And that still holds, especially when it comes to this product. By the way, this is the one dubbed “the other creamy crack”!
Description:
Moisturizing Shealoe Leave-In Conditioner is an excellent creamy herbal infused creamy conditioner and detangler intended to smooth the cuticle and remove knots, snarls, and tangles from thick kinky textured hair.
Ingredient List:
Aqua (Distilled Water”> infused with *Organic Calendula officinalis (Calendula Flower Whole”>, *Organic Arctium lappa (Burdock Root”>, *Organic Equisetum arvense (Horsetail Shaved Grass”>, & *Organic Urtica dioica (Nettle Leaf”>, Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Leaf Juice”>, cetyl alcohol, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, *Organic Althaea officinalis (Marshmallow Root Powder”>, *Organic Arctium lappa (Burdock Root Powder”>, *Organic Calendula officinalis (Calendula Flower Powder”>,*Organic Ulmus rubra (Slippery Elm Bark Powder”>, Matricaria recutita (Chamomile Flower Powder”>, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea oil”>, Oryza Sativa (Rice Bran Oil”>, *Organic Olea Europaea (Olive Oil”>, Macadamia integrifolia (Macadamia Nut Oil”>, Ricinus Communis (Jamaican Black Castor Seed Oil”>, Argania Spinosa (Argan Oil”>, Cocos Nucifera Oil / Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract (Aloe Butter”>, Vitis vinifera (Grape Seed Oil”>, Mangifera Indica (Mango Alphonso Powder Fruit Extract”>, Kosher Vegetable Glycerin, Potassium Sorbate, Salix Nigra (Willow Bark Extract”> Tocopherol (Vitamin E”>, D-Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5″>, Essential Oil & Fragrance, Citric Acid.
Top Ingredients 411:
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Distilled Water infused with OrganicCalendula, Organic Burdock Root, Organic Horsetail, and Organic Nettle Leaf: This water infusion is scalp soothing, contains anti-oxidants, promotes growth and elasticity, and helps improve the strength of hair.
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Aloe Leaf Juice: Acts as a natural conditioning agent that restores the hair’s sheen, luster, and shine. It not only makes the hair soft, but it also enhances strength and suppleness. Because of Aloe’s low pH, it can also help seal the cuticle to aid in moisture retention and prevent damage.
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Cetyl Alcohol: Fatty alcohol and emollient conditioner known for giving products a creamy, thick texture and feel.
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Behentrimonium Methosulfate: Mild detangling ingredient made from the rapeseed (canola”>. Known for great detangling without leaving product buildup on hair.
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Marshmallow Root Powder: Extraction that creates a slippery, mucous-like substance that adds incredible slip (translation: awesome detangling”>, and contains high amounts of plant proteins for strengthening and conditioning hair.
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Burdock Root Powder: Rich in fatty acids, which aid in improving shine and elasticity. Burdock Root also stimulates blood flow to the scalp, encouraging growth. It is also rich in silica and phytosterols, which soothe irritate scalp conditions like dandruff, psoriasis, seborrhea dermatitis. The mucilage in Burdock Root is great at providing slip, making it easier to detangle hair.
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Calendula Powder: Known to be soothing to sensitive scalps, and also helps prevent damage by protecting hair from free-radicals. It also contains some antibacterial properties, helping keep the scalp and hair clear of infection and bacterial growth
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Slippery Elm Powder: Known for high slip content (hence the name”> when steeped or added to water. Slippery Elm contains procyanidins (a flavanoid”> which bind to the surface of hair and can help prevent protein loss, damage, and aging in hair, while increasing tensile strength.
Performance
Oh. My. Goodness. Please forgive me, but I am fairly new to this leave-in conditioner phenomena. Up until a few months ago, I thought leave-in conditioner was optional, or a hack job at best. By hack job, I mean shake up some regular conditioner in a spray bottle with a little water. I now understand the error of my ways, and that leave-in conditioner is a must, in terms of setting the foundation for moisture and a great style.
Like I mentioned a little earlier, I used to have only one favorite leave-in conditioner: the Coco Creme Leave-In Conditioner by Shescentit. Now, I have two. The other creamy crack has undoubtedly made the list of products I refuse to live without. It is ultra moisturizing, it softens the hair, and helps keep the detangled hair party going.
I can easily apply a little of the leave-in and run my fingers through my hair with little to no snagging and stopping – which is major! Ever since I got the Moisturizing Shealoe Leave-In, I have used it at the base of my styles for everything – from wash and go’s to braidouts.
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Soothing Herbal Curl Defining Peppermint Gel
Remember what I said earlier about spending extra money on deep conditioners and curl definers, and the subsequent high expectations? The same thing applies here. Right off the top, I was already in love with the smell. Peppermint (but not overbearingly so”> really does it for me.
Description:
Soothing Herbal Curl Defining Lavender & Eucalyptus Gel contains no alcohol and will not dry out your hair. Soothing Herbal Curl Defining Lavender & Eucalyptus Gel will provide your hair with great hold and is excellent for defining your natural curl, two-strand twist and excellent for smoothing your edges. The Shea oil & honey will keep your hair moisturized, soft and lustrous. Soothing Herbal Curl Defining Lavender & Eucalyptus Gel works great in combination with the Nourishing Hair & Body Butter.
- No Alcohol
- No Flaking
- No Artificial Color
Ingredient List:
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Distilled Water infused with OrganicCalendula, Organic Burdock Root, Organic Horsetail, and Organic Nettle Leaf, aloe vera juice, Shea Oil, Grapeseed Oil, Macadamia Nut Oil, Jamaican Black Castor Oil, Carbomer, Organic marshmallow root,organic slippery elm bark, Jamaican Black Castor Oil, potassium sorbate, willows bark, lemon & peppermint essential oils, citric acid.
Top Ingredients 411:
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Distilled Water infused with OrganicCalendula, Organic Burdock Root, Organic Horsetail, and Organic Nettle Leaf: This water infusion is scalp soothing, contains anti-oxidants, promotes growth and elasticity, and helps improve the strength of hair
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Aloe Vera Juice: Acts as a natural conditioning agent that restores the hair’s sheen, luster, and shine. It not only makes the hair soft, but it also enhances strength and suppleness. Because of Aloe’s low pH, it can also help seal the cuticle to aid in moisture retention and prevent damage.
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Shea Oil: Emollient fat from the nut of the East or West African shea nut tree, used to moisturize and soften hair.
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Grapeseed Oil: Rich in omegas 6 and 9, grapeseed oil helps promote hair growth, elasticity, and shine, while helping to ease scalp conditions such as eczema.
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Macadamia Nut Oil: Another oil rich in omegas 6 and 9, grapeseed oil helps promote hair growth, elasticity, and shine, while helping to ease scalp conditions such as eczema.
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Jamaican Black Castor Oil: Castor oil infused with burnt palm ash, which has antibacterial and antifungal properties. It is also a great moisture sealant, and promotes hair thickening and growth.
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Carbomer: Emulsion stabilizer that is responsible for forming gels in products.
Performance
As mentioned previously, I have high standards for curl defining products – gels especially. I like to avoid too-frequent manipulation as much as possible, so I need a curl definer to work for at least 3 days (if not 4…5 is unheard of since I wash my hair every 4 days or so”>. For gels, jellys, and custards, I expect hold, definition, shine, and some softness.
I understand that for my wash and go’s to last as long as I would like, I have to sacrifice a little softness for some crunch, but I am okay with that. Worst case scenario, I do a little scrunching, and the crunch is gone. There was no need to scrunch the crunch on this gel, because it was incredibly soft.
I loved the fragrance, it went on easily (although not with as much slip as I would have liked”>, and my curls were shiny. Unfortunately, because the gel is really light, my wash and go pretty much washed and went after one day. I don’t do all of the diffusing, pineappling, and root stretching that some bloggers do, but perhaps those methods might have made a difference in how long the product lasted for me. But all hope is not lost – for those that prefer a lighter hold, or have finer textures of hair, this gel would be perfect. I would likely purchase this gel again, to see how it works on a wet-to-dry style such as a twist or braidout.
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Marvelous Mango Nourishing Hair and Body Butter
This butter smells soooooo good. Seriously. I didn’t think I’d be one for the mango scent, but it is bright without being overbearing. When sealing my hair’s moisture in, I prefer butters to oils – especially butters with more than just shea (and sometimes other than shea entirely”>.
Description:
Nourishing Hair & Body Butter is made from the best butters & oils nature provides, it will moisturize, revitalize, heal, and protect your hair and skin. The lightly scented fresh mango scent will have you thinking of a tropical island! This butter smells delightful, please do not ingest, for external use only.
Ingredient List:
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter”>, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut Oil”>, Garcinia Indica Seed (Kokum Butter”>, Mangifera Indica (Mango Seed Butter”>, Hydrogenated Avocado Oil (Avocado Butter”>, Cocos Nucifera Oil / Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract (Aloe Butter”>, Prunus Dulcis (Sweet Almond Oil”>, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba Seed Oil”>, Vitis vinifera (Grape Seed Oil”>, *Organic Olea Europaea (Olive Oil”>, Ricinus Communis (Jamaican Black Castor Seed Oil”>, Shorea stenoptera (Illipe Butter”>, Tocopherol (Vitamin E”>, D-Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5″>, *organic essential oils & fragrance.
Top Ingredient 411:
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Shea Butter: Emollient fat from the nut of the East or West African shea nut tree, used to moisturize and soften hair.
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Coconut Oil: Oil high in saturated fats (which is why when cold, it is solid”>. One of the few known oils to penetrate the hair shaft and truly moisturize hair. Coconut oil helps to moisturize, seal, prevent breakage, and protein loss.
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Kokum Butter: Butter native to India, prized for essential fatty acid content. Its emollient, inflammation-reducing, and skin healing properties make it ideal for use on dry and damaged hair and skin.
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Mango Seed Butter: Rich in beta carotene, essential fatty acids and vitamins A and E. This ingredient also helps to treat dry skin and protect against future dryness.
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Avocado Butter: Moisturizing oil extract that can penetrate the hair’s cortex and strengthen hair.
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Aloe Butter: Combination of Aloe Vera extract and fractionated coconut oil to produce a rich, emollient butter that soothes, strengthens, imparts shine, and improves elasticity and moisture retention in hair.
Performance
Anything that can go on my hair and skin without drama is good in my book. This butter was great at both! It is great for sealing in moisture, softness, and shine without weighing hair down – thanks to the presence of all the other butters and oils which are a little lighter than shea buter itself. Whenver I use it in my hair, I get compliments on how yummy my hair smells, which is great. All in all, the butter is awesome – and because it is so versatile, it is a great bargain!
Overall, I really enjoyed the Koils By Nature Line. The combination of high quality ingredients, and formulations that deliver on their promises has me sold, and will definitely make me a repeat customer!
For more product reviews, check out The Mane Objective
MORE: DIY All Over Shea Butter
For naturally curly girls suffering from conditions like psoriasis, eczema, and seborrheic dermatitis, finding effective treatments can be tricky. Medicated shampoos that contain coal tar, salicylic acid, and pyrithione zinc are affordable, over-the-counter solutions that can help lift flakes, and soothe irritation. On the up side, they are affective. According to Dr. Susan Stuart, board-certified Dermatologist, “some of the best over the counter shampoos contain coal tar as in ingredient in concentrations of 0.5 – 5.0%. It has been used as a safe remedy for decades.” Dr. Stuart also notes that, “a scale softener that contains salicylic acid can soften the thick, stubborn patches of psoriasis” – which will help ingredients designed to help penetrate better.
On the downside, many medicated shampoos can leave your curls going from bouncy to brillo pad in 2 seconds flat. They’re harsh, tend to have multiple sulfates, less than stellar inactive ingredient lists, and very few natural oils and extracts (if any”>. So what’s a flaky-scalped curly to do? Here are some tips for getting the most out of your medicated shampoo without ruining your curls:
- Coat hair (not scalp”> in conditioner or oil (or both mixed together”> first. If you pre-poo with conditioner, just up the ante and absolutely lay it on thick! That way, when it’s shampoo time, you won’t have any major stripping and dryness.
- Detangle hair well prior to using shampoo. Do not, by any means apply medicated shampoo to your hair before detangling it. I don’t care what stage you detangle at in your regimen, when using medicated shampoo, your hair MUST be detangled as much as possible prior to. Medicated shampoos aren’t concerned with slip, and as a result, your hair will tangle and mat like nothing you’ve ever seen – unless you detangle first. Bonus: if you coat your hair with a super slippy conditioner, you can get a 3 for 1 deal: coated hair, a pre-poo, and detangle!
- Oil scalp generously prior to washing, but after you have already wet your hair and scalp. “A common way to soften and loosen scalp scales is to apply oils, lotions, creams, or ointments to the damp scalp”, says Dr. Stuart.
- Dilute shampoo in an applicator bottle, and apply to scalp, not scalp and hair. If you can help it, an applicator bottle with slanted nozzle will help target the scalp directly, minimizing the amount of drying shampoo that ends upon your strands.
- Always deep condition. Whenever you use a shampoo, and especially when using a medicated shampoo, a good deep conditioning is always in order. To help restore the moisture balance in hair, opt for deep conditioners or intensive masks that are rich in softening ingredients like fatty alcohols (cetyl, stearyl, cetaryl”>, butters, and oils, and cationic surfactants that help correct the charge of your hair (like behentrimonium methosulfate”>.
Hopefully, by following these steps, you’ll be able to walk away from the shower with a clearer scalp and beautiful hair!
Have you heard? The Fetish Fix Box is a bi-monthly subscription box of handcrafted Purgasm Shop goodies, free of phthalates, parabens, petrochemicals, sulfates, artificial dyes, colorants, and more.
Priced at $25 every other month, it is a great way to experience the best of Purgasm Shop, as well as try out exclusive for-Fetish-Fixers Only products.
November Box contained:
- Wild Cherry Curl Poppin’ Gel, 2oz
- Wild Cherry Treatment Hair Truffles, 6 count (featured item”>
- Island Rum Soap Bar
- Honey Mud Soap Bar
- Pink Blossom & Sugar Scrub
- Exfoliating Glove
The inaugural box theme is “Fan Favorites,” and contained some of their best-selling goodies. I couldn’t wait to dive in.If you’re looking for great value and a simple way to experience the best of the Purgasm Shop brand, look no further than the Fetish Fix Box.
In terms of value, the truffles alone pretty much cost the same as the box itself ($22 for 6″>. The other products aren’t full sized – which gives you just enough to experience what Purgasm Shop has to offer.
Let’s break down the box contents:
Wild Cherry Curl Poppin’ Gel & Hair Treatment Truffles
I’ve already done a full review on Purgasm Shop before, and the quality and performance of both products remains consistent. I do however have a new update for the Hair Truffles: I’ve found a new way to incorporate them into my regimen!
They are excellent as a stand-alone deep treatment, however, when I incorporated just one truffle into my conditioning henna treatment, my whole life changed. Normally when I henna, I use Jamila Body Art Quality Henna, conditioner (Trader Joe’s Nourish Spa or Suave Professionals Almond and Shea Butter”>, unrefined coconut oil, and hot water. This time around, I decided to experiment and throw in a truffle.
Boy, am I glad I did. All of that amazing softening and conditioning that the Wild Cherry Treatment Hair Truffle did on its own significantly enhanced the results of my henna. My curls were moisturized, soft, lightweight, and full of body.
All of that was great, but here’s the best part: I didn’t need to condition my hair afterwards. Normally after a henna treatment, I have to deep condition my hair to ensure softness and manageability. Not this time – and I totally attribute it to the truffle. For more on that, click here.
Island Rum & Honey Mud Lather Bars
As far as the Island Rum Lather and Honey Mud Bars are concerned, I found them to be on par with the Cocoa Yogurt bar I previously reviewed. Both bars are gentle, effective, and multi-use. The Island Rum Lather Bar smells amazing – and I can see why it is clearly a fan favorite. The added bonus of the turmeric infusion boosts the bar’s already natural ingredient list by incorporating anti-aging, elasticity-improving, dandruff-fighting, and acne healing properties to the multi-use bar. I have psoriasis and not dandruff, so the bar did not help improve my scalp condition. It did however, effectively clean and impart shine to my hair.
Ingredients
Coconut Oil, Palm Oil, Safflower Oil, Glycerine (kosher, of vegetable origin”>, Shea Butter (refined naturally crushed”>, Purified Water, Sodium Hydroxide (saponifying agent”>, Sorbitol (moisturizer”>, Sorbitan oleate (emulsifer”>, Honey, Soy bean protein (condition”>, and Titanium Dioxide (mineral colorant”>.
The Island Rum Bar contains turmeric, while the Honey Mud Bar is filled with rhassoul clay, yogurt, and yucca – which add qualities of purifying, conditioning, and strengthening to the hair and skin bar.
The Honey Mud Bar is definitely my favorite of the two – not only because it is infused with rhassoul, yucca, and yogurt, but because it was psoriasis-friendly.
I love smell-good stuff, but synthetic fragrances can agitate conditions like psoriasis. Of the two shampoo and skin bars, I found the honey mud bar to be more mild, which makes it a great option for gentle cleansing. The only down side to either bar is that they don’t have tons of slip.
I personally prefer super slippy shampoo bars, but that shouldn’t be an issue if you detangle thoroughly pre-shower. Either way it goes – super shiny and soft hair is on the menu after using the Honey Mud Bar.
Pink Blossom & Sugar Scrub
Although not haircare related, the Fetish Fix Box does include an amazing and exclusive skin exfoliator. I found myself fascinated by the scrub, because it looked very coarse and had flakes of what appeared to be flax seeds in it. I thought it would be good for my skin, but definitely to abrasive on my face. I was wrong!
Although it was an exfoliator, it felt incredibly soft. It didn’t have that stiffness that can sometimes happen with other scrubs. This was definitely not your run-of-the-mill sugar scrub. Though I have not been able to get my hands on the full ingredient list, I can tell you that the ground flax seed, oats (I believe”> and other natural exfoliators make a ton of difference.
The fragrance is lightly sweet and floral, without being overbearing. Overall, it is a great scrub, and scores different from others that I’ve tried! The exfoliating glove was also a nice touch, and especially right on time for Winter. I use it to target dry skin problem areas in the shower.
Final Thoughts
All in all, I really enjoyed the Fetish Fix Box. Although it is an already great value, I think what would help set this box apart is more full-sized products. Twenty five dollars is an incredibly reasonable price for a box full of goodies, but if the Pink Sugar Scrub or Wild Cherry Curl Poppin’ Gel had been full sized, this box really would have been taken to the next level.
But I still maintain the value is excellent! As I said before, 6 truffles normally runs about $22 (they’re made from incredibly high quality ingredients and well worth the money”>, so Purgasm Shop did a great job of featuring them in their first box. I can’t wait to see what’s in store for December!
If you’re interested in checking out a Fetish Fix Box, visit www.purgasmshop.com!
Just kidding, I know plenty of naturals still struggle with their hair – especially at bedtime. But for transitioners, the struggle is especially unique – how do you preserve styles and prevent tangles without accidentally returning all hair to straight? Here are 3 ways to preserve styles, prevent matting, and reduce damage to transitioning hair at nighttime:
1. Scarf Pineapple
When it comes to the pineapple, I generally warn transitioners to stay away. Although the pineapple is simple and brilliant, it will inevitably lead to ruining a transitioning style via stretching the styled hair back straight. However, if you’ve reached at least the mid-point in your transition, the scarf pineapple method is a viable option. As a spin-off of the original, I use a satin scarf to secure and pineapple my hair. I bend over at the waist, lay the triangular shaped (achieved by folding in half diagonally”> scarf at the back of my head, then bring the sides around to the front and tie them in a knot to secure my hair. Then I take the two ends and tie them at the back of my hair, to further secure. It ends up looking like a ponytail, but minus the scrunchie, which significantly decreases the likelihood of stretching or re-straightening styled hair.
2. Light Banding
Many naturals use the banding method to stretch highly textured hair without heat. However, banding done a little differently can help preserve a textured transitioning style minus smushing, straightening, and tangles. The original banding method involves several rubberband-like scrunchies (like Goody Ouchless”> securely placed down the length of the hair. But for light banding, you’ll need looser satin scrunchies that won’t leave dents in the hair. Separate hair into 4 sections, and place 2 or 3 satin scrunchies loosely down the length of each section – looping no more than twice so as to prevent stretching. Cover hair with a satin scarf or bonnet, and sleep easy!
” src=”https://www.beautycon.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/multi-pineapple-1.jpg”>A multi pineapple3. (Loose”> Multi Pineapple
For shorter hair or textures more prone to tangles, matting, and high amounts of shrinkage, the multi-pineapple is an effective way to preserve curls and coils. The premise is the same as the original pineapple, just divided into as many sections as necessary. Click here for a thorough tutorial by EllePixie of Quest For the Perfect Curl. Just remember for transitioners, keep the ponytails loose, and cover hair with a satin scarf or bonnet afterwards.
Nighttime Tips:
- Avoid water
If you are looking to preserve a style such as a twist or braid-out, do not use water or water-based products (or if you do so, use sparingly”> to refresh hair at night or in the morning. Water causes reversion, which can do double-damage for a transitioner style – reverting your new growth to natural (not stretched”> texture, and returning your curled/braided/wavy relaxed or heat damaged ends back to straight. I recommend properly moisturizing and sealing hair before styling, to prevent dried-out hair on day 2 or 3. If you must moisturize, creamy products like: Soultanicals Fluffalicious Curl Nutricious, CURLS Whipped Cream, or Qhemet Biologics Burdock Root Butter Cream. All three are moisturizing, and not too watery – and they won’t weigh down relaxed or heat damaged ends.
- Protect your edges
Many transitioners get so caught up in preserving a style that they neglect their edges. Keep edges nourished and moisturized with products like Eden BodyWorks Peppermint Temple Balm or Jamaican Black Castor Oil.
- Minimize your styling
If you can avoid it, refrain from re-braiding, twisting, curling, etc. your hair every night. Although your ends are damaged and you’ll eventually trim away at them, excessive manipulation can cause an untimely expedition of that process. Stick to styles that will give you the look you desire, and couple that with products like EcoStyler, Soultanicals Curl Blaze Hair Glaze, or Wonder Curl Get Set Hair Jelly that will provide a lot of hold to get a longer lasting style!
- Use Satin
Regardless of what method you use to preserve your moisture and style at night, I recommend always having a satin pillowcase on deck. I’m a wild sleeper, and can never guarantee that any scarf or bonnet will make it through the night. The satin pillowcase is a great backup plan to have in place.
When it comes to naturally curly hair, we know all about oils and butters – which to use for what, nutritive properties, and more. Increasingly, DIY curlies (and some natural hair brands too”> are turning to herbal extracts, leaves, and powders to enhance their healthy hair regimen. Let’s take a look at 8 amazing herbs for your hair that pack a powerful punch.
8 Healthy Hair Herbs
1. Sage
There’s something to be said for checking out your kitchen stock for healthy hair. Sage, also known as Salvia officinalis, is an antioxidant-rich herb and astringent with antibacterial qualities. If you suffer from dry, itchy scalp and dandruff, sage is an excellent natural remedy. The astringent properties also make it ideal to eliminate buildup from the hair and scalp without drying it out.
Sage choices:
2. Amla
Amla, known as Phyllanthus emblica is an excellent hair conditioning herb that provides scalp-penetrating nourishment. It strengthens hair at the root, promoting stronger, healthier new growth. It can help slow or prevent hair loss, shedding, and breakage.
Get your Amla fix :
3. Chamomile
Likely a familiar favorite choice for a calming drink of tea, Chamomile (Matricaria recutita”>, chamomile brings those same soothing and anti-inflammatory properties to your hair and scalp. If you suffer from itchy, irritated, or sensitive scalp, a chamomile rinse or products containing chamomile can help get your scalp and hair growth back on track while promoting shine and sheen.
Get your chamomile on:
4. Basil
Not just for use in the kitchen! Basil (Ocimum basilicum”> is a wonderful and fragrant herb that stimulates hair follicles and blood circulation, which encourages growth. The magnesium in basil helps prevent breakage, and the anti-inflammatory properties can help soothe scalp conditions such as dandruff, eczema, and psoriasis. It also adds luster and shine to dull hair.
Spice up your regimen:
5. Hibiscus
More than just a pretty flower, Hibiscus sabdariffa has many beneficial uses. When steeped, the pinkish-red hue given off contains lots of mucilage and plant protein that is great for curly hair. It promotes growth, and aids in the treatment of scalp conditions like dandruff and hair loss. It also aids in moisture retention by sealing the cuticle, which also helps promote shine. The high nutrient content of hibiscus makes it ideal to promote healthy hair growth and strength.
Get your hibiscus fix:
6. Calendula
Calendula, formally known as Calendula officinalis, has soothing and antioxidant written all over it. It is rich in minerals that are soothing to sensitive scalps, and also helps prevent damage by protecting hair from free-radicals. It also contains some antibacterial properties, helping keep the scalp and hair clear of infection and bacterial growth.
Add Calendula to your regimen:
7. Burdock Root
Burdock Root (Arctium lappa”> is definitely one of the more popular herbs, because of all it does. It is rich in fatty acids, which aid in improving shine and elasticity. Burdock Root also stimulates blood flow to the scalp, encouraging growth. It is also rich in silica and phytosterols, which soothe irritate scalp conditions like dandruff, psoriasis, seborrhea dermatitis. The mucilage in Burdock Root is great at providing slip, making it easier to detangle hair.
Bring Burdock Root home:
8. Rosemary
We’re back in the kitchen! Rosemarinus officinalis, whether in fresh, dried, or essential oil form, encourages hair growth by improving blood flow and circulation to the scalp – which results in strong, healthy hair growth. Rosemary also increases manageability and adds shine.
Boost your regimen with rosemary:
What are your favorite haircare herbs?
Qhemet Biologics
Back in 2004, Felis Butler began her mission to cater to kinkier textures of hair. She believed that naturals in the 4c category had become the most frustrated with this texture, even though there was no reason to be. Pulling from her background as a historian, she was inspired by indigenous ancestors who embraced their hair in all of its textures. With the right combination of ingredients, Butler was able to create a rich, multipurpose, top of the line brand of products for the ingredient-conscious natural.
Qhemet Biologics was the first natural haircare line to feature MSM, which is essential for hair growth and health. QB is also shea butter-free, vegetarian,cruelty-free, eco-friendly, and formulated specifically to address the needs of those struggling with dry, tangle-prone hair. The products also conform to the stricter EU and Japanese cosmetic safety standards, which means they do not contain mineral oil, silicones, sls, phthalates, parabens, dmdh hydantoin, triclosan, sodium hydroxymethylglycinate, diazolidinyl urea, or imidazolidinyl urea.
Burdock Root Butter Cream
The Qhemet Biologics line in entirety is huge, but I definitely have a few favorites in the Burdock Root Butter Cream, Cocoa Tree Detangling Ghee, and Aethiopika Hydrate & Twist Butter. Let’s dive in!
Ingredient List
Distilled water infusion of Burdock Root Extract, Nettle Leaf Extract, and Oatstraw Extract, Olive Oil, Vegetable Glycerin, Wheat Extract, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetyl Alcohol, Stearyl Alcohol, Steralkonium Chloride, MSM, Citrus Limon & Citrus Aurantium (Essential Oil Scent”>, Maltodextrin, Phenoxyethanol & Ethylhexylglycerin (food grade paraben and formaldehyde free preservative”>
Performance
“Lighter than the Amla & Olive Heavy Cream, this lusciously rich formula softens and nourishes normal to dry hair. Our Burdock Root Butter Cream is a light, water based leave-in for fine haired naturals, straight styles and those looking for a light penetrating moisturizer. It conditions and softens while nourishing the scalp. Leaves hair healthy, soft and supple!”
Top Ingredients 411
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Distilled water infusion of Burdock Root Extract, Nettle Leaf Extract and Oatstraw Extract: Burdock Root is rich in fatty acids that stimulate blood flow to the scalp, nourishes and strengthens hair follicles, to promote healthy hair growth and improve the overall condition of hair. The silica and phytosterols in burdock help soothe irritated scalp conditions like dandruff, decrease breakage and repair hair while adding sheen, hydration and luster. Nettle stimulates the scalp, improves circulation, and helps promote fuller, more radiant hair. Nettles have a long-standing reputation for preventing hair loss and making the hair soft and shiny. Oatstraw has emollient qualities promotes softness, body and shine. It contains nutrients that aid in healthy scalp maintenance and hair growth. Oat straw tea brings out highlights in blond hair.
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Olive Oil: Olive Oil is rich in high levels of mono-unsaturated fatty acids and vitamin E. Vitamin E is an antioxidant, which is good for hair growth. Both mono-unsaturated fatty acids and vitamin E are good for moisturizing, protecting and nourishing hair. Olive oil makes hair grow stronger and its emollient properties prevent hair loss.
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Vegetable Glycerin: Humectant that absorbs and retains moisture from the air.
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Wheat Extract: Rich in essential fatty acids, proteins, vitamins, and anti-oxidants that promote hair strength, growth, nourishment, shine, elasticity, and regeneration.
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Cetearyl, Cetyl and Stearyl Alcohols: Fatty alcohols and emollient conditioners known for giving products a creamy, thick texture and feel.
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Stearalkonium Chloride: Cationic surfactant derived from stearic acid, a fatty acid found in plants and animals. It is an antistatic agent, and positively charged salt that attracts and binds proteins, which are negatively charged. It is found to increase luster and improve the condition of wet or dry hair, often serving to detangle the hair.
Performance
I love everything about the Qhemet Biologics Burdock Root Butter Cream. As indicated in the description, it is an awesome alternative to the Amla and Olive Heavy Cream – which although incredibly nourishing, I found to be a wee bit too heavy for my transitioning tresses. The Burdock Root Butter Cream is creamy enough to thoroughly moisturize my hair, while being light enough to not make it feel greasy or weighed down. A little bit definitely goes a long way, which means the 8.5oz jar will definitely last a long time. It has an airy, citrus scent that doesn’t linger and won’t bother allergies (I’ve discovered that my eyes itch line crazy and I sneeze forever if fragrances are too strong”>. I love to use the Burdock Root Butter Cream when my tresses are especially parched, as a mid-week and sometimes daily moisturizer. It also makes a great foundation for wash n’ go’s, twist-outs, braid-outs, and other stretched styles. The thing I love the most about the Burdock Root Butter Cream is that my hair soaks it up – leaving it light, moisturized, soft, and strong, minus the grease-coated feeling.
Cocoa Tree Detangling Ghee
Product Claim
“Our thick, rich cream softens and detangles with pure Cocoa Butter and nourishing botanicals! Restores manageability, softness and elasticity to normal to very dry hair. Smooths cuticles, improves combing ability and reduces breakage.”
Ingredient List
Distilled water infusion of Nettle Leaf Extract, Barley Extract, Horsetail Extract, Pure Cocoa Butter, PPG-3 Benzyl Ether Myristate, Cetyl Alcohol, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Behenamidopropyl Dimethylamine, MSM, Butylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol & Ethylhexylglycerin (food grade paraben and formaldehyde free preservative”>
Top Ingredient 411
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Distilled water infusion of Nettle Leaf Extract, Barley Extract, and Horsetail Extract: Nettle stimulates the scalp, improves circulation, and helps promote fuller, more radiant hair. Nettles have a long-standing reputation for preventing hair loss and making the hair soft and shiny. Barley is high in niacin content, which promotes and stimulates hair growth. It is also known to make hair incredibly shiny and improve elasticity by laying down the hair cuticle, thus improving moisture retention. Horsetail is nourishing and hydrating, stimulates blood vessels in the scalp and has been used for centuries as a hair growth herb. The silica in horsetail helps to keep hair strong and adds shine and luster to hair.
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Cocoa Butter: An anti-oxidant rich, nourishing, moisturizing, shine enhancing, and UV protecting emollient known to help reduce damage to hair, soften, and stimulate growth.
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PPG-3 Benzyl Ether Myristate: shine-enhancing emollient and plasticizer found primarily in hair care products. It provides a silicone-like feel, can enhance shine in hair products, and high solubility of UV filters, improving SPF value.
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Cetyl Alcohol: Fatty alcohol and emollient conditioner known for giving products a creamy, thick texture and feel.
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Behentrimonium Methosulfate: Mild detangling ingredient made from the rapeseed (canola”>. Known for great detangling without leaving product buildup on hair.
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Behenamidopropyl Dimethylamine: Vegetable oil-based (rapeseed”> cationic surfactant used to condition the hair, smooth the cuticle, and provide slip without excessive buildup.
Performance
First things first: the Cocoa Tree Detangling Ghee smells heavenly – thanks to the cocoa butter. When I think about detangling products, the first things that come to mind are thinner consistencies, a little runny (if not liquid entirely”>, and definitely containing ingredients like marshmallow root with tons of mucilage and slip. Definitely not a shiny, light-buttery looking product. Needless to say, I was skeptical. However once I used it, I definitely saw why many naturals and bloggers rave about the Detangling Ghee. It works. Well!!! I prefer to use it on freshly washed damp hair to finger detangle or in conjunction with my Q-Redew, although it works well on dry hair too. It really does somehow melt the tangles away and make it easier to catch shed hairs. Because of the awesome nourishing ingredients, you can feel free to leave it in as a moisturizer, too! My only wish is that the Cocoa Tree Detangling Ghee came in a 16oz jar, because I’m so heavy-handed with product.
Aethiopika Hydrate & Twist Butter
Product Claim
Use this thick, rich butter to soften and maintain twists, braids and loose hair! Ideal for dry, highly porous hair! Use as a body butter too! Softens thick, extra dry hair with an ultra rich blend of Pure Olive Oil, Mango Butter and Rice Bran Oil! A touch of plant wax helps reduce frizz and smooths edges and soy extract adds humectancy. Use sparingly. A little goes a long way.
Ingredient List
Olive Oil, Mango Butter, and Rice Oil Blend, Behenyl Esters, Cetyl Alcohol, Soy Extract, Plant Wax, Phthalate Free Fragrance
Top Ingredient 411
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Olive Oil: Olive Oil is rich in high levels of mono-unsaturated fatty acids and vitamin E. Vitamin E is an antioxidant, which is good for hair growth. Both mono-unsaturated fatty acids and vitamin E are good for moisturizing, protecting and nourishing hair. Olive oil makes hair grow stronger and its emollient properties prevent hair loss.
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Mango Butter: Rich in beta carotene, essential fatty acids and vitamins A and E. This ingredient also helps to treat dry skin and protect against future dryness.
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Rice Oil: Vitamin E rich oil high in ferulic acid and esters that stimulate hair growth. Rice oil also contains antioxidants, such as omega-3 and omega-6 essential fatty acids, that have been shown to nourish hair and improve elasticity and shine.
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Behenyl Esters: The end result of the hydrogenation of castor oil, acting as an emulsifying and conditioning agent.
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Cetyl Alcohol: Fatty alcohol and emollient conditioner known for giving products a creamy, thick texture and feel.
Performance
For me, a reoccurring theme with the Qhemet Biologics line is “things that shouldn’t be possible but are”. An ultra nourishing cream that isn’t to heavy for transitioning hair. A cocoa butter based detangler. And now, with Aethiopika Hydrate & Twist Butter, we have a butter that really doesn’t act like a butter. What I mean is that it looks like a whipped butter, but the consistency and performance is so far above and beyond that of a regular butter, I almost want to call it a thick pomade. It is super creamy instead of really oily when rubbed between the hands, and makes an excellent sealing product as well as styling – especially for stretched styles like twist or braid-outs. It leaves hair shiny and soft without feeling greasy or full of buildup. It is also great to sleek edges for a polished bun, puff, or ponytail. I also love the mango-y tropical and slightly floral fragrance. A little bit of Aethiopika goes a long way, so you can count on having that 5oz jar for quite a while! As an additional bonus, I accidentally left my Aethiopika Hydrate & Twist Butter in my car one afternoon in the blazing hot sun for hours. When I returned to my car, I panicked and hoped to high heaven that it hadn’t melted (sometimes product consistency and performance changes when they melt”>. I was SUPER relieved that the consistency of the butter had not changed whatsoever. It was warm, but not liquidy, gooey, or melted to any degree. Amazing!
Have you tried any products from the Qhemet Biologics line? What are your favorites?
![]( "Hydratherma-Amino-Plus-Protein-(1")
” src=”https://www.beautycon.com/curlreading/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Hydratherma-Amino-Plus-Protein-1.jpg”>Hydratherma Naturals
” src=”https://www.beautycon.com/curlreading/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Hydratherma-Amino-Plus-Protein-1.jpg”>Even though I’ve been on this transitioner journey for well over a year and a half now, I have yet to find a staple DC that I know will pack a punch and deliver on its promises. And I won’t lie to you, when Hydratherma Naturals Amino Plus Protein Deep Conditioning Treatment arrived at my doorstep in an unassuming black and white bottle, I didn’t think much of it. That is, until I used it and it changed my life.
I finally have a staple protein deep conditioner. Let me share with you why it made it to my list of the Top 10 Deep Conditioners for Transitioning Hair.
Product Claim
With just one use, you will see and feel a difference. This treatment contains an exceptional and unique complex of 10 structurizing proteins, all of different molecular weights. These proteins penetrate deep within the hair shaft producing benefits like no single protein can. Contains vitamins and botanical extracts to strengthen the hair and prevent breakage. Also provides sun filter (UV protection”>. Paraben free. pH balanced.Performance
I almost did a praise dance in the shower after using this stuff. Do you see that SHINE? Let me be the first to tell you that the product has an amazing slip, provides super softness (which is a feat for a protein conditioner”>, and just made my hair feel super buttery and smooth. Even the heat damage. In fact, just by touch alone, I could not tell where my natural hair ended and my heat damage began. Normally conditioners make my natural hair feel great, and my heat damage feel ok. But not this DC!!! My hair’s elasticity and strength was instantly improved. They said I would see and feel a difference after just one use — and I did. New staple, hands down.
Top Ingredients 411
- Cetyl & Stearyl Alcohol: Considered “fatty alchols” — NOT to be confused with drying alcohols such as ethyl. Both Stearyl and cetyl alcohol are lubricants, thickeners, and emollients. They give conditioner its velvety feel without making hair greasy. Also used to keep product ingredients from separating.
- Dicetyldimonium Chloride: Cationic (positively charged”> surfactant that helps correct the slightly negative charge of hair and closes cuticles to prevent damage, chipping, and weakening of hair.
- Dimethicone: Silicone-based polymer used as a lubricating and conditioning agent.
- Tocopherol Acetate: Vitamin E. Supports hair growth, and believed to assist in preventing hair loss. Also has been known to be a proven UV protectant.
- Glycerin: Vegetable-based humectant that absorbs moisture from the air.
- Sclerotuym Gum is a gel-like thickening agent and polysaccharide produced through a fermentation process (basically fermented sugar”> that acts as a conditioning agent for hair
Availability
This product and others from Hydratherma Naturals is available in select stores across the country, mainly in the midwest, south, and on the east coast. There is also some international availability. Unfortunately, the only place in Cali I can find this stuff is in San Leandro, 361 miles away. Looks like I will be purchasing online at www.hydrathermanaturals.com. To find out if there is a retailer near you, click here.
Affordability
The 8oz bottle runs for $16.99. Under normal circumstances, I would consider this expensive. To be honest about it, it is…but still not as expensive as some other deep conditioners I’ve seen, like Miss Jessie’s or Carol’s Daughter. Because it is a protein conditioner, I would not consider it a product for weekly use (maybe monthly”>, which can ease some of the expense.
Christina’s hair after HydrathermaBonus
I feel like I showed up late to the protein/moisture and pH balance party that most naturals rave about. With the exception of a failed apHogee experiment or two, I usually rely on henna and ApHogee Keratin & Green Tea Restructurizer Spray to strengthen my hair. And for the most part they’ve worked quite well. But I always felt like my hair was missing something. Like it was good, but not great. I used to think pH balanced was a fluff, but now I’m beginning to see how the right pH can take your hair to the next level. And the Amino Plus Protein Deep Conditioning Treatment has definitely done that.
Drawbacks
I’m not a huge fan of the fragrance. It’s slightly sweet and synthetic-smelling, but definitely nowhere in the ballpark of being a deal breaker. It doesn’t bother my allergies, isn’t overbearing, and doesn’t linger in the hair. If you noticed, none of the proteins or aminos were listed in the top 6 ingredients after water. I don’t particularly see this as a drawback, although some looking for a stronger treatment might. As far as I’m concerned, the higher up on the list the proteins, the higher the concentration, the harder and more straw-like your hair will become. The proteins and aminos in this DC sit squarely in the middle of the ingredient list, making it (in my opinion”> ideal for most hair types to benefit without being overpowering.
Bottom Line
This product is awesome for so many reasons. It delivers on it’s promises, does not contain mineral oil, petrolatum, or parabens. It is pH balanced, which I am beginning to understand is kind of a big deal (haha”>. Lastly, it is an amazing high quality product created by a small business owner, Saleemah Cartwright. I love, love, LOVE this deep conditioning treatment. If you’re looking for a great product to provide an amazing protein, moisture, and pH balance to set your hair RIGHT, look no further. Seriously.
Transitioners face a lot of unique struggles in their pursuit of natural hair. One of the biggest challenges is preventing breakage at the line of demarcation between the new natural hair and the heat damaged or relaxed hair. Preventing breakage is key to avoid extreme thinning of ends, and having to cut hair prematurely. One of the best lines of defense against this breakage is having a great deep conditioner, and walking the line between moisture and protein.
Here are the top moisturizing and strengthening deep conditioning treatments for transitioning hair, and why they work.
10 Deep Conditioners for Transitioning
1. Shea Moisture Raw Shea Butter Deep Treatment Masque
Based in super-softening shea butter and loaded with ultra-nourishing argan oil, sea kelp, avocado oil and more, this creamy deep conditioner packs a moisturizing punch perfect for transitioning hair. Shea butter softens hair and increases manageability, while Vitamin A and E rich argan oil supports scalp health, hair elasticity, provides UV protection, and prevents damage from free-radicals. Sea Kelp helps seal the cuticles of the hair, promoting shine and moisture retention.
2. Alikay Naturals Honey & Sage Deep Conditioner
This super moisturizing conditioner is made from some of the most hair and scalp nourishing ingredients out there. Coconut and olive oils both penetrate the hair, guarding against protein loss in washing and everyday handling while providing moisture, softness, shine, and elasticity. Honey acts as a natural humectant, drawing moisture to the hair and preventing brittleness and breakage. Sage stimulates the scalp, promoting hair growth and thickening hair overall.
3. Darcy’s Botanicals Pumpkin Seed Conditioner
Although not listed as a “deep” conditioner, this warm pumpkin pie-smelling product has climbed to the top of the charts for both transitioners and naturals. Packed with vitamin and nutrient-rich pumpkin seed oil, this conditioner hydrates, soothes, stimulates, protects, and repairs damaged (and healthy”> tresses. Pumpkin seed oil is rich in beta carotene (from Vitamin A”> and zinc which both stimulate growth and prevent hair loss. The conditioner is super rich, and provides perfect moisture to damaged and healthy tresses.
4. Camille Rose Naturals Algae Renew Deep Conditioner
Another fan favorite, this deep conditioner is full of some of the best ingredients for natural hair – aloe vera, shea butter, cocoa butter, and mango seed butter. Aloe vera soothes, adds shine, and helps hair retain moisture and strength by closing the cuticles. All three butters promote softness, moisture, shine, and elasticity – making this an ideal treatment for dry hair in dire need of moisture.
5. Pura Body Naturals Chocolate Hair Smoothie
Indulge your senses in this delectable dessert-smelling deep conditioner with zero guilt. Full of antioxidant rich cocoa powder and cupuacu butter, this deep conditioner helps prevent UV damage, promotes strength, shine and elasticity, while improving moisture and suppleness of hair thanks to the high fatty acid content of cupuacu.
6. Hydratherma Naturals Amino Plus Protein Deep Conditioner
Designed with a moisture/protein balance in mind, the amino plus protein deep conditioner loads stressed tresses with essential amino acids necessary for healthy hair growth, while strengthening hair with rice, corn, and soy proteins. Although it is a protein conditioner, it does not leave hair brittle and dry. In fact, thanks to the moisture and elasticity promoting aminos, aloe vera, and glycerin, hair is nicely moisturized, and incredibly soft and smooth afterward.
7. Komaza Care Protein Hair Strengthener
If your hair is in dire need of a strengthening treatment (increased breakage and weak hair”>, this is the one. Filled to the brim with hydrolyzed keratin, collagen, jojoba protein, and wheat protein, this strengthening deep treatment is guaranteed to help curtail breakage and increase tensile strength. Because it is so full of proteins that fill in gaps and mend chipped cuticles, it does require the use of a moisturizing conditioner afterward.
8. Shea Moisture Yucca & Baobab Anti-Breakage Masque
Based in Shea Butter, Coconut Oil, and Mango Seed Butter, this deep conditioning treatment combines moisturizing, strengthening, nourishing, volumizing, and thickening into a one-stop treatment for transitioning hair. Yucca Root has amazing anti-inflammatory and growth promoting properties, while omega-rich Baobab rejuvenates hair and increases strength, elasticity, softness, and shine.
9. Shescentit Okra Hair Repair Reconstructor
Okra has a bad reputation. The crunchy outsides mixed with slimy insides grosses most people out. It just may be time to give Okra a second look. That same slime that turns most people off is like a love potion for damaged hair. High in Vitamin A, Vitamin C, protein, and Magnesium, Okra helps strengthen and reverse damage caused by chemicals, excessive heat, and manipulation. The Okra Hair Repair Reconstructor also contains hydrolyzed soy protein, keratin, and wheat amino acids to help strengthen, prevent breakage, and repair damage along the hair shaft.
10. Nubian Heritage Indian Hemp & Tamanu Grow & Strengthen Treatment Masque
This super strengthening Shea Butter based deep conditioner contains two oils that pack the moisturizing and strengthening punch necessary for transitioning hair to thrive. Indian Hemp is a ceramide-rich oil essential to the cohesion of the hair cuticle. Hemp oil and other ceramides are known to protect and/or repair the hair fibers. In particular, they have a barrier effect which limits the loss of proteins. Hemp also reinforces cuticle cohesion, which gives the hair more strength and liveliness. Tamanu Oil is a nut-based oil known for reducing inflammation and irritation, as well as helping with hair and skin regeneration.
Soultanicals
Don’t get me wrong — all of the small businesses I feature are phenomenal. But I have a soft spot for a few businesses in particular; and Soultanicals is one of them.
Soultanicals owner and creator Ayo Ogun-McCants adiates love and positivity, and those vibes spill out of every product in her hair, bath, and body line. Inspired by her love of cultures, traditions, and the natural richness of African design, the Soultanicals line features products with botanical ingredients, bright designs and fun names, inspired by Ayo’s own earthy, fun, and afro-original nature. Soultanicals products are made for naturals of all textures and lengths who want to experience high-quality handmade natural products, while promoting self-love and wellness.
A little over a month ago, Ayo reached out to me about sampling some Soultanicals products, and I couldn’t be happier. It was perfect timing — I had just seen my hair crush HeyFranHey raving about the line, and I was looking for more high-quality businesses for the 2nd round of my small business features. Ayo provided me with some amazing products to try out: Curl Blaze Hair Glaze, Knot Sauce Coil Detangler, Honey I Shrunk the Frizz Strand Poo Bar, Fluffalicious Curl Nutricious, and Knappylicious Kink Drink. Of all the products, Curl Blaze Hair Glaze, Knot Sauce Coil Detangler, and Fluffalicious Curl Nutritious were my absolute faves. But in totality, all the products were AWESOME. I could go on and on forever…but for the sake of time, let’s explore my favorite Soultanicals products!
Curl Blaze Hair Glaze
Product Claim
Slip into natural hair bliss with this moisturizing, shine-enhancing and oh-so-curlicious plant-based hair gel. Define with blue malva & marshmallow root, acacia honey and silky smooth plant gum to create a ph-balanced, frizz-free, hydrating experience- certain to hold your curls in heavenly cloud 9. Awesome slip & Crunch-free.WARNING: Extremely Curl Reactive!
Top Ingredients 411
Ingredients List
- Distilled water Infusion of Blue Malva and Marshmallow root
- Aloe Juice
- Vegetable Glycerine
- Guar Gum
- Panthenol
- Sclerotium gum
- Sodium Lactate
- Meadowfoam Seed Oil
- Coconut Oil
- Organic honey
- Citrus Essential Oil and Fragrance Blend
- Potassium Sorbate
- Citric Acid
- Blue Malva and Marshmallow Root Water Infusion are noted for their ability to strengthen and moisturize hair, while providing tons of slip due to their high mucilage content
- Aloe Juice acts as a natural conditioning agent that restores the hair’s sheen, luster, and shine. It not only makes the hair soft, but it also enhances strength and suppleness
- Vegetable Glycerin is a vegetable-based humectant that absorbs and retains moisture from the air
- Guar Gum is a white flour-like substance made from an East Indian seed. Use small amounts as a thickener, binder, and volume enhancer
- Panthenol is a form of vitamin B known to moisturize and soften hair. It’s also able to penetrate the cortex of the hair shaft, but cannot repair or thicken hair
- Sclerotuym Gum is a gel-like thickening agent and polysaccharide produced through a fermentation process (basically fermented sugar”> that acts as a conditioning agent for hair
Performance:
When I first opened up the Curl Blaze, I thought it was going to be one of those “light” hold curl defining products that left me with some definition, but mostly frizz. I. Was. Wrong. Don’t let the liquid-y nature of the product fool you. It has tons of slip, and glides easily on top of and throughout the hair. It mixes with virtually ANY moisturizing product, making it ideal for mixing and layering. My curls were super defined, shiny, soft, had tons of body, and lasted for days. I loved this product so much, I went ahead and ordered some more already! I mean, just check out the definition and shine on this wash n’ go!
Knot Sauce Coil Detangler
Product Claim
A Nappilicious Reinvention of A Natural Hair Detangler, Super-Naturally Emphasized with Blue Malva Herb, Brocolli Seed Oil & Coconut Nectar for Excellent Comb-Thru Spreadability & Extra Softness! A lusciously creamy, delish blend of cake batter and butter icing with a hint of vanilla. The Proof is in the Sauce!Ingredients
Distilled Water Botanically Infused with Certified Organic Blue Malva, Nettle, Horsetail, Slippery Elm, Oatstraw, Chamomile, Coltsfoot & Marshmallow Root, Certified Organic Aloe Juice, Meadowfoam Seed Oil, Organic Extra Virgin Coconut Oil, Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Flaxseed Gel, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Cetyl Alcohol, Cocoa Butter, Brocolli Seed Oil, Crambe Seed Oil, Pro-Vitamin B5, Guar Gum, Algae, Coconut Nectar, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Natural, Fragrant & Essential Oil Blends, Potassium Sorbate, Black Willowbark Extract, Citric Acid, an extra pouring of soulistic flava & LOVE!
Top Ingredients 411
- Blue Malva, Nettle, Horsetail, Slippery Elm, Oatstraw, Chamomile, Coltsfoot & Marshmallow Root Water Infusion: Blue Malva, Slippery Elm and Marshmallow Root provide slip, shine, and nourishment to hair while Nettle, Horsetail, Oatstraw and Coltsfoot promote strength, shine, and combat breakage. Chamomile sooths scalp and softens hair
- Aloe Juice acts as a natural conditioning agent that restores the hair’s sheen, luster, and shine. It not only makes the hair soft, but it also enhances strength and suppleness
- Meadowfoam Seed Oil is an incredibly stable oil of the Meadowfoam plant, known to provide softness, shine, and seal in moisture
- Coconut Oil is extracted from the meat of coconuts. It is unique in the sense that it is one of the few oils that can penetrate the hair shaft to provide moisture. It also reduces protein loss when used as a pre-poo treatment.
- Olive Oil is a moisturizing oil extracted from the meat of olives. It can penetrate the hair’s cortex, so it may make hair stronger.
- Flaxseed Gel is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids that promote shine, strength, elasticity, and also provides slip.
Performance
I think here would be the appropriate place to take a time out and pay tribute to how AMAZING everything in this line smells. It is gentle and sweet without being overbearing or irritating to those with sensitivities to fragrance. Knot Sauce is no exception. It worked amazingly well as a detangler and a pre-poo, making my hair feel nourished and moisturized. It is strong enough to melt tangles (especially when paired with the amazing steaming effects of the Q-Redew”>, yet light enough to act as a mid-week moisturizer or even a leave-in.
Fluffalicious Curl Nutricious
Product Claim
Known as some of the “world’s best ingredients for Curly hair” (one scoop and you’ll know why”>, this creamy nutricious hair fluff nourishes deep within the strand with hair-strengthening wheat germ oil, moisture-boosting blue malva herb and strand softening calendula leaf. Especially loved by Thick Curly Hair in need of Maximum Nourishment!Top Ingredients 411
Ingredients List
- Distilled Water Botanically Infused with Calendula and Blue Malva Herb
- Organic Aloe Vera Juice
- Cetyl Alcohol
- Vegetable Glycerine
- Rice Bran Oil
- Behentrimonium Methosulfate
- Avocado Oil
- Wheat Germ Oil
- Pro Vitamin B5
- Potassium Sorbate
- Citric Acid
- Natural, Fragrant Blends
- Blue Malva and Calendula Water Infusion strengthens and moisturizes hair while providing slip, and Calendula is soothing to sensitive scalps, rich in plant minerals that protect the hair from free radicals, and protects the scalp from bacterial growth while conditioning and adding shine
- Aloe Vera Juice acts as a natural conditioning agent that restores the hair’s sheen, luster, and shine. It not only makes the hair soft, but it also enhances strength and suppleness
- Cetyl Alcohol is considered “fatty alcohol” — NOT to be confused with drying alcohols such as ethyl. Acts as a lubricant, thickener, and emollient. Provides velvety feel without making hair greasy. Also used to keep product ingredients from separating
- Vegetable Glycerin is a vegetable-based humectant that absorbs and retains moisture from the air
- Rice Bran Oil is a cerimide-rich oil that helps strengthen hair similar to protein without the drying effects. Also promotes elasticity and shine.
- Behetromonium Methosulfate is a mild detangling ingredient made from the rapeseed (canola”>. Known for great detangling without leaving product buildup on hair
Performance
For me, this product absolutely defies logic. In my hands, it feels very rich and creamy. But when I put it in my hair, it is light as a feather. It packs a super moisturizing punch without weighing hair down at all. I can’t think of a better moisturizing product for transitioners, or anyone dealing with medium to fine strands of hair. After using Fluffalicious, my hair feels immediately nourished, softened, and most of all — stays that way. I can go 2-3 days without reapplying the product. Because my hair isn’t weighed down afterward, it has tons of body to it. This is the perfect foundation for a great wash n’ go or refresher!
Bottom Line
All in all, the Soultanicals line of products is definitely one to experience. All of the products are handmade fresh with 100% botanical (vegan”> ingredients. They do not include phthalates, parabens, sulfates, petroleum, mineral oil, glycols, or other controversial ingredients. The products are all 100% toxin-free, cruelty-free, vegan, and do not contain artificial preservatives, fragrances, or dyes. The Soultanicals line of products is great for the ingredient conscious, vegan, or for those with allergies and sensitivities.
Obia Natural Hair Care
Amaze-balls.
Phenomenal.
Awe-inspiring.
Simply divine.
Those are just a few of the words that come to mind when Obia Natural Hair Care comes to mind. You guys think I’m exaggerating — but I’m really not. I love every single thing about the Obia brand. Why, you ask? Let me tell you.
Curl Enhancing Custard
You know the little “hallelujah” looking Android emoji that folks use on Instagram? That’s what pops into my head whenever I see this product. Simply put, I love it dearly. So much, that I’ve already ordered 2 more jars (and I’m not even finished with the one they sent me”>. I am a product junkie, and product hoarder. No, you can’t have any. #itsallmine
Description:
This alcohol-free formula hydrates, elongates, and provides super shine to all types of hair. Does not leave a waxy residue or buildup. Infused with argan oil, grapeseed oil, and olive oil.
Top Ingredients 411:
- Olea Europaea (Olive”> Oil: Olive Oil is rich in high levels of mono-unsaturated fatty acids and vitamin E. Vitamin E is an antioxidant, which is good for hair growth. Both mono-unsaturated fatty acids and vitamin E are good for moisturizing, protecting and nourishing hair. Olive oil makes hair grow stronger and its emollient properties prevent hair loss.
- Vitis vinfera (Grapeseed”> Oil: Pressed oil from the seeds of grapes, high in Vitamin E and linoleic acid. It is an antioxidant, moisturizing, and nourishing oil.
- Argania spinosa (Argan”> Oil: Oil rich in vitamin E and contains omega 3 and omega 9 fatty acids that provide nutrition for hair. It also contains Linoleic and oleic acid that helps to hydrate and moisturize hair. Helps repair damaged follicles, imparts shine, and prevents frizz and rough ends.
- Carbomer: A gel-like thickener.
- Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein: Emollient moisturizing protein, also adds some strength to hair.
- Vegetable Glycerin: Vegetable-based humectant that absorbs moisture from the air.
Performance:
I mean, the picture collage speaks for itself. My curls popped. My edges were LAID. But what you can’t see in the picture is how soft they are. I seriously kept touching my hair ALL day. As far as consistency is concerned, the Custard reminds me of As I Am Smoothing Gel – but it leaves my hair much softer. The fragrance is incredibly mild, and almost undetectable. I found that it treated my heat damage with the same love as my curls – no stringy spaghetti noodle ends for me!
Coconut Shea Shampoo Bar
Of all the Obia products, I was the most reluctant to try this one out. I hadn’t really hopped on board with the whole “shampoo bar” craze, so I didn’t quite understand why this little bar was kind of a big deal.
Description:
This rich moisturizing shampoo will leave your hair soft, conditioned, and hydrated. Shea butter deeply moisturizes and repairs damage to hair and scalp, while coconut oil protects hair from heat and chemical damage.
Top Ingredients 411:
- Saponified Oils:When we talk about soap or shampoo bars, the term “saponified” often comes into play. Anything saponified is done with Sodium Hydroxide, also known as lye. But that’s not an issue at all! In fact, it has little to no impact on your hair. Click here to learn about that. Coconut is the amazing moisturizing, hair-penetrating oil (almost”> every natural knows and loves. Castor is an emollient and humectant oil, touted as a treatment for thinning hair, hair loss, dry, and itchy scalp. It has anti-fungal and antibacterial properties. Palm and Safflower Oils contain significant amounts of Omegas 9 and 6, respectively which support softening and elasticity in hair.
- Shea Butter: Emollient fat from the nut of the East or West African shea nut tree used to moisturize and soften hair.
- Vegetable Glycerin: Vegetable-based humectant that absorbs and retains moisture from the air.
- Rosemary Essential Oil: Concentrated oil that is great for stimulating blood circulation on the scalp, promoting nourishment and growth. It is also has antibacterial properties, and can help relieve dry, flaky, and irritated scalp.
Performance:
I kid you not, the second I rubbed this poo bar against my wet hair, I invoked the spirit of Flavor Flav. Yes, I stood in the shower and said “wowwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww” at least twenty times. I expected a shampoo bar to stick to my hair, and it didn’t. I expected a shampoo bar to strip my hair, and it didn’t. I didn’t expect a shampoo bar to have that much slip…enough to thoroughly detangle my hair. And it did. This shampoo bar completely and utterly shattered every preconceived notion I ever had about shampoo bars and what they’re supposed to do. Instead, this bar has set the standard for what I expect from others. If you think I’m exaggerating, let me inform you that I’ve already ordered 2 more of these, plus one Neem and Tea Tree (to see if the goodness + scalp healing properties work just as well”>. The shampoo bar cleansed my hair and scalp without stripping them, made detangling a breeze, smells like a DREAM, and is just all-around amazing. I. Will. NEVER. Buy. Another. Shampoo. Again. Maybe. Because well, I’m a PJ. But when I tell you this is my new cleaning staple, I mean it.
Bottom Line
Everything in the Obia Natural Hair Care line is formulated by Obia herself, a trained chemist. All of the products are pH balanced, vegan, cruelty and gluten free. Additionally, they are non-toxic, herbal-based, and free from parabens, formaldehyde, phthalates, mineral oil, sulfates, artificial colors, drying alcohols, silicones and petroleum. The Obia line oozes quality, and everything is reasonably priced. There’s really not much more I can say, other than you’d be crazy to not check out their stuff. I can’t wait for their Curl Therapy Deep Conditioner and Scalp Relief Tonic to drop. Oh, and they have products for men too!
Check out Obia Natural Haircare:
Instagram, Twitter & ; Pintrest: @obianaturalhair
YouTube: www.youtube.com/obianaturalhair
Facebook: www.facebook.com/obianaturalhair
Summer is over, and school is back in session. That means busy moms, kids, college curlies, and working naturals are once again squeezed for time with densely packed calendars and schedules. While some naturals have the luxury of spending hours upon hours managing their manes, there are some of us who can barely carve out time to go to the restroom, let alone give our hair the TLC it needs. Here are six ways to cut back on time spent on your hair without sacrificing taking great care of it.
6 Curly Time Savers
A Few Birds, One Stone
One of the easiest ways to save time (and money”> in your regimen is to make your products work a little bit harder for you and do double duty. Simply put, find products that are able to accomplish more than one thing. For example, I rarely ever spend time pre-pooing before wash day anymore. That’s because I can accomplish a pre-poo and detangle in one step, with one product (Trader Joe’s Tea Tingle Conditioner”>. Even if I decide to skip the pre-poo all together, I can still detangle and cleanse in one step with my new favorite, Obia Natural Haircare Coconut Shea Shampoo Bar. See what areas in your regimen can benefit from a streamlining of products and purpose, and go for it!
Cut Down Your DC
It has been proven time and time again that deep conditioning does not have to be done for hours on end to be effective. Nothing zaps more time from your day then sitting at home under a dryer waiting for miracles to happen while you need to be out and about running errands, or on your way to class. The truth is, your average deep conditioner is formulated to work in under half an hour to achieve maximum benefit. So instead of wasting hours (or interrupting your sleep by attempting to deep condition your soaking wet head overnight”>, follow the instructions on the package, but don’t exceed 30 minutes for deep conditioning. You have better uses for your time.
Master A Go-To Style
Every curly girl should have at least one go-to style that they can execute in 10 minutes or less. For me, that style is a transitioner puff(a traditional puff with the straight ends tucked away”> or a high bun. I know exactly what tools and products I need to get a no-fail result every time. When I’m pressed for time or have a horrible style/product experimentation mishap, I always know I can fall back on either of those styles. Find your go to styling options, and keep them in your time-saving arsenal at all times!
Scale Back
As the seasons change, the temperatures do too. Many natural ladies find themselves cleansing their hair more regularly in the summer months due to increased perspiration. But as the later months bring cooler temperatures, there is an opportunity to skip a wash day or two. Depending upon how often you wash your hair, you may be able to forego or delay a wash without posing significant harm to your hair. For example, I wash my hair twice a week during the summer months because it is warmer, I sweat more, and I tend to spend more time outdoors. But as fall rolls around, I cut back to one wash day a week – saving me time and money on products…and your water bill.
Stay Organized
Another huge time zapper is not being able to find the things you need. Before I got organized, I spent so much of my time trying to remember where I put such-and-such product, or trying to locate just one more bobby pin. Now those days are long behind me. When you get a spare moment, begin organizing your products and tools in a way that makes them easily accessible. For example, all my products are grouped by category: cleansers, conditioners, deep conditioners, stylers, moisturizers, leave-ins, etc. I also have Ziploc bags dedicated to particular tools. My scrunchies, bobby pins, satin strips, perm rods, headbands, and clips all have their own separate bags. Of course, this system only works if you put things back where you find them!
Lasting Results
One last great way to trim time from your regimen is to cut down on maintenance. Not ignoring your hair; rather finding products that are able to meet your hair’s needs for an extended period of time. If your hair craves moisture, make sure your process and products to add moisture to your hair will carry you throughout the week (or at least for a few days”>. If your concern is style and hold, check for products that will keep your look locked-in for the long term. I personally recommend Alikay Naturals Shea Yogurt Moisturizer for thirsty hair, and Wonder Curl Get Set Hair Jelly or Goddess Curls for tresses that need long-term taming.
What are some ways that you like to save time in your haircare regimen?
