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These products have been proven to help prevent your hair from frizzing out of control. For blowouts, these anti-humectants will help your hair revert back to its natural texture.

Be mindful if you are following a no-poo regimen, that most of these contain silicones and therefore will cause build up in your hair with continued use, and will need a clarifying shampoo to remove.

Have you tried one of these? Leave a review in our Products Section.

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10 Products To Tackle Frizz This Fall

10 Anti-Humectant Products

We know that curly hair tends to be moisture-challenged. All of the products we apply have one goal in mind: to give you more moisture! So why would you ever want to block it out?

It turns out moisture is what’s causing that dreaded f word, frizz. There’s an ingredient that can help with that, and they’re called anti-humectants.

Moisture Blockers

You may have heard of humectants before. These help add moisture to the hair. But what are anti-humectants? Exactly the opposite. They are beneficial in hair products depending on your hair type, porosity and the dew point because by repelling moisture from the air from going into your hair, it will help prevent your hair from frizzing out of control and if you have your hair blown out straight (it’s okay, just be sure deep condition”> the anti-humectants will help your hair revert back to its natural texture. If you are someone who struggles with frizz during the hot, humid months anti-humectants can become your best friend!

When to Use Anti-Humectants

Anti-Humectants should be used in high dew points and excess humidity. Be careful though–excess usage can result in dry and parched hair! Stay clear of anti-humectants in very cold, dry weather and when the dew point drops to low levels because the use of anti-humectants will block your hair from moisture and can leave your hair brittle and unmanageable.

Choose Your Frizz Fighter

You can decide which anti-humectant will work best for you by considering your hair type, the results you wish to achieve and what particular ingredients you may or may like in your hair.

Types of Anti-Humectants

Natural forms of anti-humectants include shea butter, coconut oil, avocado oil and olive oil. If you have a favorite styling product that has humectants if you layer any of these under it,  they will become a barrier between  your hair and that product so you can get the styling benefits without the excess moisture going into your hair.

Other forms of anti-humectants include silicones, esters, hydrogenated castor oil, beeswax and plant triglycerides. Most of these, with the exception of plant triglycerides are very hard to wash out of the hair without a shampoo. Using these kind of anti-humectants often will result in more frequent use of harsher shampoos so this is something to consider. If you don’t want to use a shampoo with sulfates (and I do not blame you”> you would have to use a sulfate free clarifying shampoo each wash, but even overuse of sulfate free clarifying shampoos can weaken the hair over time.

Whether you were born with fine strands or notice your hair may be thinning over time, a lot of people wish for their hair to at least look thicker. Statistics say by the age of 60, 8 out of 10 women will experience some degree of hair loss, so if you’re not dealing with this chances are you will at some point.

The following products may help strands become thicker, or at least give the illusion of more volumized, thicker hair.

It is important to note with these products that individual results will vary. The key with using products that claim to thicken hair over time is to be consistent with using them and give them at least a few weeks to truly start working.

We know how frustrating thinning hair can be and it can be disappointing to get your hopes up regarding products. So if you’ve tried any of these products please leave your reviews, for better or for worse, either in the comments below or in our Product Database so that other curlies can learn from your experience!

10 Products for Thicker Hair

SheaMoisture is on fire releasing new lines this year. One of the lines, an exclusive to CVS stores nationwide, is the Jamaican Black Castor Oil Hair Collection. This collection contains products which address hair affected by the following:

• product build-up
• processing of hair with harsh chemicals
• excessive heat styling damage
• chemical treatments
• harsh environmental conditions

The line is also being referred to as the “Strengthen, Grow and Restore” line. That alone made me want this stuff without even having more information as I am trying to grow my hair long and strong and restore the damage I do by coloring it.

The formula is ideal for all hair types and styles including dry, damaged, straightened, natural and transitioning and the products remedy breakage, dryness, and coarseness. When I read who this line was developed for, I felt my hair personally fit into so many of the categories, including dry, damaged and color treated, and I couldn’t wait to test and play with this new collection.

The formula contains a proprietary blend of certified organic Shea Butter with rich fatty acids to deeply moisturize and condition, Jamaican Black Castor Oil with reparative omegas that promote healthy hair growth, Peppermint to stimulate the scalp to promote healthy growth, and other key beneficial natural and certified organic ingredients.  All of the products and sulfate free and color safe.

I am really impressed and happy with how these products perform, but my one complaint is the smell. Some of the products have a very weird, mint smell to me that I am not too fond of. BUT I am happy to report this smell is not as intense or strong when applied in the hair vs. smelling the bottle and even better, the smell doesn’t linger!!

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Watch my video review!

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The Strengthen, Grow & Restore Shampoo $10.99

What They Say:

Clarify, Nourish and Grow. This clarifying, sulfate-free shampoo removes product buildup, while infusing hair with moisturizing essential oils leaving locks stronger and healthier. Gentle enough for daily use. Apple Cider Vinegar aids in regulating and balancing pH levels on the scalp, while softening hair to promote enhanced growth. Rice Protein adds thickness and improves smoothness. Panthenol helps hair retain moisture.

What I Say:

I always get a wee bit nervous with clarifying shampoos because the ones of years past would dry my hair out something awful. Not this one! This shampoo left my hair feeling nice and clean, and it moisturized my hair without feeling heavy. Unlike so many clarifying shampoos where I would fear the product going on the lengths and ends of my hair, I don’t mind letting this one run down my tresses to remove all the build up. The past few weekends I made it to the beach I used this shampoo to get rid of all the beach junk- sand, sunscreen, hair protectant, sweat, etc, and it did a fantastic job at it. I always wanted to try Apple Cider Vinegar on my hair, as I heard of the great cleansing and purifying benefits but was always nervous because I heard it could mess with color treated hair. I like that I finally get to try it inside this product and that the product is color safe!  Bonus, this bottle is HUGE.

The Strengthen, Grow & Restore Leave-In Conditioner $10.99

What They Say:

Detangles and restores manageability to chemically processed, permed or heat styled hair, while effectively blocking humidity for frizz-free, sleek styles. Conditions and strengthens hair to help prevent breakage and split ends, while keeping the scalp hydrated and healthy. Coconut Oil protects from damage and shedding, while Panthenol helps hair retain moisture.

What  I say:

So this product is a first of it’s kind for me! See, most products labeled “leave in conditioners” are not enough for me to use on my wet hair after the shower (I use them to add moisture to day 2 and 3 hair”> But this one here, IT IS! The first leave in conditioner I can truly use as a leave in. The consistency is on the thinner side yet it still moisturizes my hair very well. I notice less frizz when using the leave in and I like knowing how some of the ingredients are helping to protect my hair from damage and allowing it to grow long and strong. It does also work nicely as a light moisturizer for second and third day hair. Like the shampoo, the jar is HUGE and a great deal for the value. This one is a keeper for me.

The Strengthen, Grow & Restore Edge Treatment, $7.99

What They Say:

This conditioning styling gel controls reversion, protects against breakage and shedding, and improves manageability for chemically processed, fragile or dry hair. Fights frizz, while offering superior hold.

What I Say:

Confession–I have some edges that need some restoring. All of a sudden, I notice these “baby hairs” and shorter hairs around my hairline… It’s breakage. UGH! I suppose it happens to the best of us. But I have been using this edge treatment when I wear my hair back to keep those pests from sticking out and ruining my style. I apply some of this and then wear a headband on top for a half hour. Once I remove the headband, the edges lie flat.(thanks to my friend Sarah for that how to tip!”> Unfortunately, the edges do pop back up in windy conditions or after quite a few hours. On days when it is extra humid or rainy I have been taking THE SMALLEST LITTLE AMOUNT of this and smoothing it over the top layer of hair to help any unwanted frizz. It does a nice job with that, but again, I can’t emphasize enough that if you are going to try that, less is more! The consistency of this is very thick and jelly like, reminds me a lot of the Coconut Oil & Hibiscus Line Curl Souffle. Out of this whole line, this is the product I would be least likely to repurchase.

The Strengthen, Grow & Restore Styling Lotion, $10.99

What They Say:

Moisturize, Protect and Shine. This fast-absorbing lotion restores natural moisture balance to dry or coarse textures, leaving hair silky smooth. Protects hair from heat styling and adds lustrous shine. Ideal for updos, ponytails, chemically treated, heat styled hair or natural hair and braided styles.

What I Say:

LOVE this lotion! Consistency wise, it is a lot thicker than the leave-in. There have been days where after the shower I will use the leave in, then this and then a gel and although this may seem like an additional step to some, the great hair days I have had make it all the more worthwhile. This product has left my hair looking like spun blonde silk. Not only would I consider this to be my favorite in the Castor Oil Collection, but this is going up there as one of my favorite SheaMoisture products of all time. It leaves my hair soft, adds shine and like I said with some of the other products in this line, I love knowing some of the ingredients inside are helping to protect my hair and help it grow. I have been rotating this and the leave in to add moisture back to second and third day hair, both work well- I decide which to used based on how dry my hair is looking that particular day.

The Strengthen, Grow & Restore Hair Serum, $10.99

What They Say:

Enriched with soothing Aloe Vera, essential oils, herbal extracts and Vitamin E, this moisturizing serum restores damaged hair and helps to repairs split ends, while supporting healthy growth. Rosemary Oil stimulates scalp circulation, Safflower Oil keeps hair soft, and Olive Oil intensely hydrates and nourishes with omega oils.

What I Say:

This bottle is so small for the price but I guess it makes up for the huge bottles of shampoo and leave in. I have placed this in a spout bottle to apply to my scalp 2 to 3 times a week to massage in and leave in as my overnight scalp treatment. Though it’s still too soon to notice the true effects, I haven’t felt anything bad with it so I plan on keeping it up for a while. I have also taken some and applied to the lengths of my dry hair and it adds nice shine and helps frizz. This oil is nice and lightweight to be used on dry hair. It is not heavy enough for me to seal my wet hair with. The product itself is really nice, just wish it was bigger.

The Strengthen, Grow & Restore Treatment Masque, $12.99

What They Say:

With Shea Butter, Peppermint and Keratin. Restores strength and resilience to damaged, brittle and chemically treated hair. Helps promote growth by supporting hair’s elasticity, breakage and shedding. Leaves hair soft, manageable and shiny. Coconut Oil protects hair from breakage, Panthenol aids in moisture retention, and Avocado Oil provides nourishment and shine.

What I say:

This is now one of my all time favorite SheaMoisture masques! The consistency is not as thick as the others, but I find this to be just as much, if not, even more moisturizing! I completely agree with the brand when they say this masque will leave the hair soft, manageable and shiny because that is exactly what it does for me. It also detangles my hair in a breeze! I don’t need to use a wide tooth comb with this to detangle, my fingers do just fine. I have used this on it’s own for about 20 minutes and also used it with my table top dryer and huetiful hair steamer. It performs wonderfully for me no matter how I use it. I’ve used it 3 times so far and still have half the jar left so I like that I don’t need a whole ton of it every time I deep condition my hair. My hair soaks up masques and I don’t scrimp- I feed the tresses however much they require and luckily with this they don’t require a whole lot at a time, so it is nice and cost effective!  I look forward to continued use of this mask helping with breakage and damage.

Avocado contributes to an array of good health and beauty factors. It provides nearly 20 essential nutrients, including fiber, potassium, Vitamin E, B-vitamins and folic acid. They also act as a “nutrient booster” by enabling the body to absorb more fat-soluble nutrients, such as alpha and beta-carotene and lutein, in foods that are eaten with the fruit.”

The Benefits of Avocado

They are high in vitamins B and E, which work at the cellular level to protect and strengthen hair. Vitamin B is essential for hair growth and Vitamin E helps with hair’s elasticity and also helps to repair damage on the scalp, which may slow or prevent hair growing. Avocados are also a rich source of proteins and amino acids. This can help promote hair growth while strengthening your strands.

DIY Hair Loss Mask

Here’s what you’ll need to create this quick and easy at-home avocado hair mask.

You’ll need

• 1 ripe avocado
• 1 tbsp of plain yogurt, or Greek Yogurt for added protein
• 1 tbsp of your favorite oil, such as jojoba, coconut, olive or sweet almond oils
• 1 egg

Directions

1. Cut the avocado in half and remove the pit, scoop out the inside, put it in a blender.

2. Add the remaining ingredients to the blender, blend thoroughly.

3. Apply the mask to damp hair from root to tip. Uut on a shower cap to lock in moisture and let the mask sit for 30-40 minutes.

4. Shampoo and condition if necessary, making sure to rinse the mask out of your hair with warm water.

5. Dry and style hair as usual!

Why an avocado hair treatment?

They can help revitalize dry, damaged and lifeless hair. This wonder fruit not only deep conditions your tresses, but your scalp as well and can leave your locks looking more voluminous, and full. If you have a lot of damage caused by heat styling or chemicals, deep conditioning regularly with avocado can leave your hair feeling softer and smoother. Brittle and breakage prone hair can be helped with the good old avocado used to nourish it. Using avocado oil on your scalp may also help combat hair loss.

There are so many recipes online featuring the avocado. Personally to consume it, I like to mix it in with my eggs or enjoy it as good old guacamole with a portion of whole grain tortilla chips!

*Note to my fellow blondes out there!

I have mentioned this before. Using avocado on your hair is great, but be very careful because leaving avocado on your hair too long and/or if you use too much your hair color can turn a bit green! User discretion is highly advised.

Mornings. Alarm clocks always go off way too soon, right? Getting out of bed in the morning sometimes can be the hardest part of the day. But here are 10 Citrus Scented products that not only will help keep your hair looking and feeling great, but they will help energize and revitalize you, so you to wake up a bit easier, more refreshed and start your day!

What are surfactants?

Surfactants are an ingredient typically found in shampoos and conditioners. You may have seen the word thrown about curly hair forums and websites, but it’s important to know that not all surfactants are the same. The surfactants typically found in shampoos are intended to clean and the surfactants found in conditioner are intended to deposit. The key difference between the two types is the size (or length”> and the charge – negative in shampoo and positive in conditioner.

All surfactants are not the same.

Surfactants in shampoos include SLS, SLES, ALS and their purpose is to remove oil and wash hair. Surfactants in conditioners include behentrimonium chloride, behentrimonium methosulfate and stearamidopropropyl which are designed to deposit onto hair, smooth the cuticle and create softness.

This image from NaturalHavenBloom explains it visually:

So now to get to the answer that you are most likely here for.

Are surfactants bad for your hair?

You probably won’t like this answer, but yes and no. This is another one of those trial and error, see how it works for you personally kind of things. If a shampoo formulation only had water and a surfactant in it such as SLS then yes- it would irritate your skin and most likely dry your hair out. However, in most formulations, there are co-surfactants present, such as fatty alcohols, present which help to balance the formula and drying effects of the surfactants. Also, most formulations contain additives such as moisturizing oils and conditi oning polymers that can help prevent damage to the hair.

Coconut oil is a desert island hair product for curly hair. This all-natural wonder ingredient, unlike most oils, penetrates deep into the hair shaft, rather than sitting on the surface. It is great for all hair types, but especially chemically-damaged and curly hair because it helps heal protein loss and makes the hair stronger over time. Using coconut oil on your hair regularly can also help increase the shine, softness, and manageability while decreasing frizz, dandruff, and hair loss. Convinced yet? Here’s how to add coconut oil to your routine.

Overnight Coconut Pre-Poo

For curly, damaged, or color-treated hair, it’s best to shampoo as little as possible (once or twice a week if you can”> because traditional shampoo will strip your hair of its natural oils. Before you do shampoo, we recommend this overnight coconut oil treatment, also known as a “pre-poo.”

Directions

1. Scoop warm with fingers – Coconut oil is solid at room temperatures, but liquefies immediately with heat, so scoop a small amount out of your jar and it will melt instantly between your fingers, making it easy to apply.

2. Massage into scalp – If you suffer from a dry, itchy or flaky scalp, start by using the pads of your fingers to apply the oil to your whole scalp, massaging gently so the scalp can really absorb the coconut oil.

3. Apply to hair in sections – This really depends on your hair, if you have fine hair then avoid the roots, but for thick or coily hair, apply the oil evenly to the length of the strand.

4. Wrap your hair in an old t-shirt – It can get messy if you go to bed uncovered. Then go to sleep.

5. Add heat – To intensify the treatment and get even better results, you can apply heat with a warm towel or your blow dryer. The next morning, shampoo, condition and style your hair as usual!

One shampoo is enough to remove the oil for most curly hair, but if you feel you need it, you can shampoo a second time.

Natural Anti-Frizz Serum

Coconut oil also makes a healthy, all-natural hair sealer for extra shine and to prevent frizz. If you’re trying to grow longer, thicker hair, coconut oil aids in breakage prevention and retaining moisture.

Directions

1. Apply a nickel-sized amount – Apply a small amount of coconut oil as the very last step in your styling routine, after any leave-in conditioners or gels you might use. Again if you have fine hair, avoid the roots and focus on the ends.

If you’ve yet to try coconut oil on your strands, pick some up next time you’re at the grocery (unrefined and cold pressed is best”>. Your curls will thank you for the extra shine and curl definition!

How do you use coconut oil in your beauty routine?

Eggs are all-natural and packed with a number of nutrients. One egg has 13 essential vitamins and minerals in varying amounts, high-quality protein and antioxidants, all for 70 calories. We’ve previously looked at the efficacy of applying eggs topically to hair, but we can’t deny that many women in our curly community have had positive results from doing egg treatments. As with all methods, it’s really a matter of finding out what works for you, and for me these two recipes have given my hair the protein it needs – both nutritionally and topically.

Add Eggs to Your Diet

Aside from protein found in the egg white, the yolk carries several important nutrients including choline, sulphur, and vitamins B12 & D. Eggs also include all 9 essential amino acids and keratin. Because our hair is primarily made up of keratin, eating foods high in this protein only makes sense to help support it. Eggs also support the health and growth of nails and because of the lutein inside, helping with skin elasticity.

There are so many different ways you can cook eggs to prepare it for any meal or snack including scrambled, soft boiled, hard boiled, poached, sunnyside or fried. You can add vegetables, meats, herbs, spices, cheese or really anything to your eggs to make it a complete meal and taste wonderful.

The way I incorporate eggs into my diet

1. Dice 2-3 hard boiled eggs small.
2. Mix with 2 tablespoons of greek yogurt, and one quarter of an avocado in a bowl.
3. Enjoy one piece of whole grain toast on the side.

This is a complete meal that is high in protein, healthy fats and good carbs.

Egg Pre-Poo Protein Treatment

Using eggs topically

• adds strength to the hair follicle
• increases manageability
• promotes hair growth
• increases shine and volume
• conditions the cuticle

Directions

1. Wet hair, shampoo as usual.
2. Squeeze excess water out of hair with a towel.
3. Start with one whole egg. If you have longer hair, use more. For my dry, very long hair which I have a lot of fine strands, I use 3 eggs to ensure thorough coverage throughout my length.
4. Beat the egg as if you were preparing scrambled eggs.
5. Apply to hair section by section evenly from roots to tip. Make sure to apply to your scalp as well. Massage into scalp to help the nutrients get to the follicle and help stimulate hair growth. Finger-comb treatment through hair to ensure it coats all strands evenly.
6. Leave on hair for 15-20 minutes. Wrap your hair in a warm towel so heat enhances the treatment.
7. Rinse hair with cool or warm water. Do not rinse with hot water–it can essentially cook the egg and you can wind up with scrambled egg throughout your hair which will become hard to remove.
8. Shampoo and condition your hair as usual.

Optional

For best results, do this treatment once a week. Add a few drops of your favorite essential oils to this mixture for additional benefits to your hair.

Add these for more benefits

• yogurt or milk for deeper conditioning.
• coconut or sweet almond oil for hydration.
• lemon juice for extra volume.

• avocado for increased softness.*

*Blondes, be careful with the avocado because using straight up avocado in your hair can turn it green.

Does it smell though?

As your egg treatment dries in your hair, you may find the smell to be a bit unpleasant. But once it is rinsed and shampooed out, the smell absolutely should not linger at all in the hair.

What are some of your favorite egg recipes? Have you tried an egg as a pre-poo or deep conditioning hair treatment? What were your results?

We’re always looking for a few extra Zzzs where we can get ‘em. Prepping hair the night before is a surefire way to make mornings run a little more smoothly. There are two methods that curly girls can depend on for a good hair day: the plopping method and the braiding method. Add one of these to your nighttime routine and you can justify hitting snooze at least one more time.

1. The Plopping Method

What you need: an old cotton t-shirt or microfiber towel. Just make sure not to use a terry cloth towel it will cause frizz.

Plopping is a method to help encourage curl formation and prevent frizz while drying, developed by the NaturallyCurly community years ago. By sleeping with your hair in a plop overnight, your curls will be held in place so they don’t dry all funky and weird if you move in your sleep.

The Night Before

1. Wash and condition your hair as usual. Bonus points if you use a deep conditioner!

2. Apply your styling products as usual.

3. Tip your head forward so that all of your hair is hanging forward in front of you.

4. Place the towel or shirt directly below your hair. You can use the floor or a chair or your bed. Whatever height you prefer.

5. Slowly begin to drop your hair into the towel, making sure it stays in one place. It should fold almost like an accordion style.

6. Once all your hair is folded, it should be directly on the top of your head on the towel.

7. Take the edges of the towel and twirl them as tight as they can get moving towards each other.

8. Secure the edges in a tie or you can even use a ponytail holder to keep them tied together.

9. Have sweet dreams of defined, frizz-free curls!

You can watch a demonstration of plopping at the 0:35 second point of this video.

The Next Morning

1. Gently remove the towel.

2. Shake out your hair so your curls fall down.

3. Do not comb through hair, but use your fingers to separate any curls that may have clumped together or are too bunched up.

4. If hair is not completely dry, use a heat protectant spray and quickly blow dry with a diffuser, or diffuse your hair on the cool setting.

5. Add a drop of shine serum or coconut oil, if desired.

2. The Braiding Method

This method will have you waking up with looser, pretty-flowing waves.

The Night Before

1. Wash and conditioner hair as usual.

2. Use a wide tooth comb to remove any tangles.

3. Separate your hair into sections. The more sections you have, the tighter and smaller the waves will be. Apply a curl-smoothing cream to each section and braid.

The Next Morning

1. Gently undo each braid.

2. Do not comb through, but just use fingers to separate each braid section.

3. Shake your hair so that the braids become more free.

4. Apply a shine serum or an oil if desired.

Whichever method you choose, may you wake up with gorgeous curls!

Dimethicone is a very popular silicone found in a lot of hair products. It is added to conditioners and styling products as it is said to help control frizz and provide extra slip. Like most silicones, dimethicone helps products to become easily spreadable. This silicone is not water soluble, meaning water alone is not enough to rid it from the hair. Usually a shampoo with sulfates is required to remove 100% of dimethicone build up but some mild, sulfate free cleansers are said to slow or stop build up as well but not remove it.

The Pros and Cons

There is great debate among the curly community regarding silicones such as Dimethicone, and whether they are actually good for the hair or not.

Pro

Dimethicone forms a barrier on the outer layer of the hair which helps to smooth the cuticle.

• This can make the hair appear to be frizz-free and have extra shine. It is also added to many heat protectants as it can help protect the hair from damage against thermal styling.
• Dimethicone does create a water barrier on the hair but it does not fully prevent water from exiting or entering.

Con

If you follow “The Curly Girl Method” by Lorraine Massey, she states that because silicones are made to repel water and forms a seal around the cuticle, it will:

• Prevent the absorption of water, ultimately drying out the hair since the hair can’t be properly moisturized.
• Weigh the hair down and prevent the natural curl shape from forming. Because silicones like Dimethicone do require harsh sulfates for full removal, sulfates also dry out the hair and can ultimately cause hair damage.

I strongly suggest seeing what your hair likes personally. Some curlies I know find not using products with dimethicone gives them their best hair days with enhanced curl definition, while others tried the curly girl method and found their hair performs better with less frizz and more shine when dimethicone is present in their hair products. I personally tend to avoid products containing dimethicone as an ingredient because I find while my hair might look okay temporarily, over time and consistant use my hair becomes more dry and frizzy. Again, that is just my hair. It is all about trial and error and making your own informed decisions on your hair care routine and ingredients.

In this article, I will be reviewing some of the stylers in the Living Proof line.

Regarding their styling products, the Living Proof site says “Our Style|Lab products combine effortless style with cutting-edge science. It’s our hair stylists’ visions combined with our scientists’ smarts.” and “Our stylists dreamed up products for beautiful hair, and our team in the lab set to work creating solutions that do that and make your styling routine faster and easier than ever.”

Everything in the style line is free of:

• parabens
• silicones
• oils
• sulfates

They’re also safe for:

• color treated
• chemically processed hair

Prime Style Extender Cream

Read reviews here

What They Say:

A first-of-its-kind hair primer that extends your style 2x longer. Formulated with our advanced priming system and powered by our patented Healthy Hair Molecule (OFPMA”> to create an exquisitely thin, weightless shield which repels dirt and oil to keep hair cleaner, longer, creates an optimal base for all styles and is so perfecting it can be used alone yet so weightless it can be layered under other styling products.

What I say:

For my hair personally, I can’t use this product alone. It has no hold and my hair expands more than I desire. But that being said, this is a holy grail product for me. It is an extra step in the after shower styling routine, yes, but I notice such a difference when I use this product vs. when I don’t it’s a step I am willing to take. I use this after my leave in conditioner and before anything else, applying it section by section. I feel it helps seals any gaps or tears in my hair’s cuticle caused my damage so my styling products that follow lay on the hair more evenly and work more effectively. In a pinch I will use this on dry hair too and it helps with some frizz. This is good for those who have thicker , dry or very dry hair.

Prime Style Extender Spray

Leave a review here 

What They Say:

This serves the same purpose as the cream, but made in a spray form to be weightless and not weigh down fine haired peoples.

What I say:

This is too lightweight and for my hair it did nothing. I will stick to the Prime Cream. However, my boyfriend who has fine hair that gets oily and weights down super easy LOVES this version. The cream was too much for his hair but this works perfectly when he blow dries his hair. He is washing his hair less often because of this spray. I think this version is good for type 2a’s or 2b’s or anyone who does have easily weighed down hair.

Flex Shaping Hair Spray

Leave a review here

What They Say:

3 solutions in 1 spray. A multi-tasking hairspray to get any look on damp or dry hair. Powered by our Flexible Web Technology to hold hair in place at any step during the styling process. When used to set, Flex creates lasting volume, waves and curls with touchable, brushable hold that is buildable. When used to style, Flex builds, shapes and adds structure to any look and is completely layerable without build up. When used to finish, Flex gives flexible hold, natural movement and humidity protection with a beautiful shine that never flakes

What I Say:

I don’t usually like hairspray, and that is because so many hairsprays leave my hair feeling hard, sticky and/or stiff. This one does NOT, so it has earned a permanent place in my stash! The hold is buildable from a little to strong and does not build up or flake. Flaking was another issue I have had with other hairsprays I’ve tried before. Though it can be used on wet or dry hair, I usually use this on dry hair, especially when I am going somewhere where I will be outside or my picture will be taken. It keeps my hair from getting overly frizzy and holds my curly waves in place without them feeling hard. This spray also works wonderfully when I wear my hair tied back to help keep the pesky edges down.

Satin Hair Serum

Leave a review here

What They Say:

A revolutionary oil-free and silicone- free serum that provides superior smoothness and cuts styling time nearly in half. Powered by our Sera-Smooth Technology that features our patented Healthy Hair Molecule (OFPMA”>. Satin provides the smoothest hair possible and unrivalled frizz protection without tradeoffs, adds shine, movement and softness, and improves manageability.  For medium to coarse hair types.

What I Say:

This is a very lightweight hair serum. I tried using it to seal my wet hair and it did nothing. I do not diffuse my hair or use heat tools often at all but I found that the times I do, I reach for this serum on top of my normal stylers and use about 5 pumps worth (I have a lot of hair”> for my whole head and it adds additional heat protection, and shine. It doesn’t weigh my hair down at all. When I use this and diffuse my hair it is not as poofy vs. when I don’t use it so that alone makes this worthwhile for me. I’ve also tried this to help frizz on dry hair and it didn’t do much, but I think it might be a nice lightweight option to fight frizz for fine hair that gets weighed down easily.

Amp Instant Texture Volumizer

Read reviews here

What They Say:

A styling cream that can be applied to dry hair for instant volume, touchable texture and flexible hold that is revivable for up to 48 hours. Powered by our Meta-Volume Technology that features our patented Volumizing Molecule (PBAE”> which instantly provides volume and texture on dry hair , makes style flexible and remoldable, so hair is never stiff or frozen and remains touchable and revivable for up to 48 hours . For fine to medium hair with layers.

What I say:

I really like this product and I don’t use it as the directions might say. This is meant only to be used on dry hair, and that is the part I do follow. I don’t look for added volume in my hair, but I kind of like this as a frizz fixer/temporary split end concealer. A little goes a long way- I take a pearl size amount per section of my hair for 4 sections. Mainly focusing on the ends I will mush it in my hair and then do a little scrunch. It helps my curls to stay defined and hides any frizz or split ends that might be going on since I tend to procrastinate my trims. I then take an additional pearl size amount and just smooth it over the top halo frizz on my hair and it helps hold it in place. I like to use this instead of traditional pomades because this is not oily, heavy or sticky.

Conclusion

Living Proof also has two other stylers. A spray called “Straight” that is supposed to help keep hair straighter longer, even in humid climates. Because I straighten my hair once a year I have not tried this product. They also have a new Instant Texture Mist that I did not even know existed until I began researching for this article. I am hoping to try that one in the near future, as it is said to give beach definition, bedhead separation or bombshell body and volume.

Watch my video product reviews here.

A couple of weeks ago I did an in-depth product review of the Restore line from Living Proof, which you can read here.

Our Q&A Section allows our dedicated curly community members to post, ask, and answer questions all things hair related. Be sure to stop by to engage with others like you and earn points while doing so! Member LSP posted this question:

Question:

“When my hair is wet, it has nicely defined waves and some curls. As soon as it dries, all of the strands separate and it turns into something resembling Cousin It…It doesn’t lay nicely…”

Answer:

I completely understand how you feel! I also constantly try to make sure my waves do not get too poofy and expand, though that look can look nice on some curlies it is not a look I like for myself either. To enhance and show off your beautiful waves without it turning poofy there are quite a few things you can do:

Is your hair getting moisture?

Using a great deep conditioner (SheaMoisture makes some nice affordable ones”> at least one a week will really help and the more moisturized your hair, the less poofy and frizzy it will be.

Apply hair products section by section

This will ensure all of your tresses are coated evenly with product. This makes a huge difference in how the hair will look when dry.

Seal with your favorite oil

Argan oil is a great choice for wavies because it is lightweight and will not weigh hair down too much but add nice shine. This is the last step when styling your hair after the shower.

Scrunch…a lot!

Scrunching is a wavy girl’s best friend, it really enhances the natural curl definition wonderfully. Here’s how I do it.

Keep your hands off your hair

Playing with and over-manipulating hair as it is drying is one of the biggest contenders for extra frizz and an unwanted poofy do.

Dry with microfiber towel or cotton

Microfiber helps prevent frizz. Squeeze the excess water out of your hair gently, do not roughly dry it not only can that lead to frizz, but it can cause breakage as well.

Minimize heat styling tool usage

As a fellow wavy curly, I notice whenever I blow dry my hair, even if it is diffusing, my hair expands more than I prefer. Air drying wavy hair is not only better for the hair’s health, but it leaves hair less poofy than other methods. Also, the healthier the hair and less hot tools you use, the better it will behave and look.

I hope these tips will help! Good luck!

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Have a wavy, curly, or coily Q?

We want you to have your healthiest, happiest hair possible! If you have any questions, feel free to visit our Q&A Section for helpful advice from curlies like you!

A lot of people color treat their hair–I am one of them. As if having curly-wavy hair isn’t enough with figuring out what product combinations work, by altering hair color we are left with additional concerns like dryness. Because I do not like the reddish strawberry blonde shade nature gave me, I lighten my hair to be more of a true blonde. By doing so, a main concern I have is brassiness. If I am not careful, the natural warm tones in my hair will leak through resulting in a not so pretty coppery, brass hue.

Another concern when coloring curls, especially going lighter of course is additional damage to the tresses. I am on a quest to grow my hair really long, so I use products with excellent moisturizing and protein containing ingredients.

5 Products for Blonde Color-Treated Hair

Summer is such a fun time of year. Most of us find ourselves outside more enjoying activities at the beach, pool, waterparks and backyards. Though you are probably protecting your skin with SPF (right?!”> are you protecting your hair too? It’s important to shield your tresses from UVA & UVB rays. They can be just as detrimental to both hair and skin. UV rays can dry out the hair, causing brittleness, thinning, frizziness, and color fading. But don’t worry–there are many products that contain UV protection, so just make sure you use one of these before heading out in the sun and then have some fun!

Ouidad was one of the first lines (and salons”> to specialize in products for all types of curly hair. In a series of articles, I will be reviewing a lot of the products in the line. The first products I will be reviewing are the products in the Salon Series by Ouidad line. These are targeted solutions to help promote health hair and scalp and can be used by ALL hair types! The Ouidad.com website says “The Salon Series is a collection of innovative at home treatments utilizing unique naturally-derived ingredients inspired by professional services practiced at the renowned Ouidad Salon in New York City.”

Mediterranean Bay Leaf Hair & Scalp Treatment

$36, available at CurlMart

What they say: A light-textured exfoliating cream that helps clear scalp & follicles of buildup & residue to help promote healthy hair growth. Soothes and improves the condition of the scalp. Natural actives helps keep scalp clean and inspires healthier hair growth. Enriched with a botanical complex of Fennel Seed Extract to increase micro-circulation and oxygen flow to the root.Formulated without silicones, sulfates, parabens and waxes.

What I say: This is one of my Holy Grail products and has been since Ouidad debuted it a few years ago. I have been using it since the beginning of my hair growth journey and I truly think this little gem has helped my hair grow healthy! I use it twice a week and actually put it on my wet scalp before shampoo or co-wash. I gently massage it in and then add shampoo and let it sit there a while. It tingles a little bit which I believe lets me know it is working. My scalp feels clean, it helps remove product build up and I think the bay leaf oil, Bamboo extract plus vitamins E & B5 help encourage healthy hair growth. It can be a bit difficult to remove, but to me it is so worth it! One tube of this will last me more than six months, I use about a quarter each time.

OMEGA-3 Replenishing Hair Treatment

$18, available online here

What they say: A deeply hydrating, washout treatment that re-hydrates the hair shaft, restores and replenishes lost moisture and breathes new life into hair. Utilizing a potent blend of Omega fatty acids (Omega-3, 6 and 9″>, the formula helps restore the natural lipid barrier of the hair and fortifies its protective surface layer. Deeply hydrating, wash-out treatment breathes new life into hair. Made with our proprietary amino acid cocktail – including Flax Seed Oil, Passion Fruit Seed Oil and Acai Pulp Oil – the formula recreates the protective lipid barrier and re-hydrates the hair shaft, restoring and replenishing lost moisture. Formulated without silicones, sulfates, parabens and waxes.

What I say: This treatment is wonderful! When they say this “adds new life to the hair” they mean it. I love the smell, it reminds me of the lemonheads candies I enjoyed as a kid. Though this does work good alone, using it under a hair dryer or steamer makes it really incredible! The major thing I notice when I do this treatment is the SHINE! My hair looks so shiny and also feels very soft. This is a great product in my deep treatment arsenal and is excellent especially for color treated curls which are generally very dehydrated.  It comes in a 6oz tube and for all my long, dry hair that barely gets me three uses. It can get pricey if I used this all the time, so that is the one drawback to this one.

Biotin Lightweight Reparative Hair Serum

$21, available online here

What they say: A potent, water-based leave-in serum infused with Biotin & a rich vitamin cocktail that strengthens hair strands & prevents breakage. Formulated without silicones, sulfates, parabens, and waxes.

What I say: I am a big fan of Biotin, I find it to be a great vitamin and ingredient to help hair health. This is another product that can get a bit pricey but a little goes a long way so that’s good! I massage this into my scalp almost every night and I like that it doesn’t build up or make my hair oily. I also will take a dropper worth of this and apply it to the front hairline pieces of my hair which are more damaged and weaker than the rest of my hair. Sometimes I massage a bit into the ends of my hair too. I find it helps with breakage and is another nice addition to my hair growth journey getting my hair to grow long and strong. Aside from Biotin, this magical elixir also contains silk amino acids, vitamins C, E & B5! This is a great product for hair that is chemically damaged in any way.

Mongongo Oil Multi-Use Hair Treatment

$36, available at CurlMart

What they say: This super-concentrated, multi-tasking serum is infused with Mongongo Oil, known as “hair food” in Zambia for its high vitamin E content and superb regenerating and antioxidant properties. With American Palm Seed Oil and Broccoli Seed Oil, the formula restructures hair as it deeply repairs damage to restore a healthy appearance to even the dullest locks. By forming a protective film over the hair fibers, hair is instantly more manageable and has a natural, healthy-looking luster. It coats hair to protect against UV rays and environmental aggressors to help defend against damage. Further, it protects hair from aggressive heat styling and helps speed up drying time.

What I say: This is not pure Mongongo Oil. It also has Broccoli Seed Oil, American Palm Seed Oil, Vitamin E and a few other ingredients, but it does not contain any silicones, parabens, fillers or any junk. This smells delicious-almost like a unique sweet fresh fruit. I like that this oil can protect hair from the sun, sometimes I will spray some in my hair if I will be out in the sun so as the oil is becoming a treatment it is also protecting my color. Sometimes I will seal my wet hair with this oil instead of argan oil and it does make an excellent sealer as it is not too heavy or greasy. A couple squirts of this on dry hair will also help add shine and help frizz. It is a nice multi-tasking oil blend.

To sum it up

I think the Ouidad Salon Series Treatments are all nice in their own way are are especially useful for hair types that are either damaged or looking to grow longer, stronger hair.

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Stay tuned soon for more Ouidad product review articles! See my recent product reviews here.

I play with so many products and love them, I am a product junkie at all but certain Living Proof Products have remained constant staples and holy grails in my routines for years now. Their products are high quality and unique. The brand was developed by MIT scientists and beauty experts who developed and patented new molecules for their hair care line! The products never have any sulfates, silicones, or oils and are all safe for color treated and chemically treated hair. Although they don’t have a specific “curly hair” line, myself as well as several friends find their products to perform extremely well on all our varieties of curls and waves. The products all have a pleasant, very light clean smell that is not offensive at all.

I will be reviewing a lot of the Living Proof products in categories in a series of articles. Here are some of my favorites from the Restore Line, which is my personal favorite from the brand. If you have hair that needs some sort of repair this is the line for you!

All of the Living Proof products contain the patented molecule OFPMA which create an thin, invisible shield around every hair strand. With this shield, “hair becomes healthier over time, hair is strengthened and protected from daily assaults like brushing and washing, hair balances the flow of moisture in and out of strands, so damaging moisture flux is controlled, hair fights off humidity, so frizz is stopped in its tracks, hair repels oil and dirt so it stays cleaner, longer and hair texture is polished into a smooth, glossy lustre” according to livingproof.com

The Restore Line

What Living Proof says: For dry and damaged hair. This line as a whole is said to help keep the hair cleaner longer and help break the cycle of damage. The Restore technology is clinically proven to make hair 20x stronger in just 14 days.  And the longer you use it, the healthier your hair gets. The Restore line smoothes, corrects and protects from root-to-tip, making a damaged cuticle act like new.  Hair is shinier, softer and stronger. Like virgin hair – never colored, heat styled or chemically processed.

What I say: This is my favorite line by Living Proof and where a lot of my holy grails live. My hair is dry and damaged and some of these products help to save it. As a whole the line truly helps my color treated hair remain healthy, soft and grow nice and long.

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Restore Treatment Mask

What Living Proof says: A powerful, deep, weightless conditioning treatment for dry, damaged hair that instantly heals and strengthens hair while adding softness and shine.  Make dry, damaged hair 20x stronger with 95% less breakage, after just 1 use. Reduce damage by 95%. Restore moisture levels to that of healthy, undamaged hair and protect from future damage.

What I say: Those are some heavy claims to live up to. But let me tell you, this mask is INCREDIBLE!!! One of my top 2 holy grail masks. I have gotten several friends addicted to this mask as well. If you watch my empties videos on youtube, you see how many of these I go through because I love it so much. That being said, a little goes a long way and it truly is a tub of magic.  I am never without at least two backups of this mask. If you color treat your hair especially, give this one a try. I always use it a few times after freshly getting color done and as a result my hair is growing healthy and long and not breaking off. Personally, I think this mask works better not using any heat than with which is weird because every other deep conditioner for me works better with. But it makes my hair easy to detangle, leaves it very soft, more defined, less frizz and added shine. It works well if I am short on time and can only leave it in for 5 minutes, but I usually try to leave it in even longer.

Restore Targeted Repair Cream

What Living Proof says: A leave-in treatment that provides an instant fix for split ends while preventing new ones. Contains Helps prevent 93% of new split ends, makes hair 50% stronger after just 1 use and helps smooth damaged hair cuticles act like new.

What I say: Unless I am testing other products, I use this almost ALWAYS after every single shower as well as the Prime, which you will read about soon. There’s one of these in my bathroom, one in my room and one at my boyfriend’s house. This is another holy grail product for me that I just can’t be without. The main thing I notice when I use this VS when I don’t is frizz. I have a significant amount of less frizz when I use this product on wet hair after shower. I apply it before applying any other gel or stylers. I also sometimes use this on dry hair, be it day 2 or 3 and it can help control any frizz that popped up, adds softness and shine. Because of the claims to help prevent split ends, I concentrate it on my ends especially.  This is my favorite hair cream out there. I hope they do a super size soon.

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Restore Revitalizing Spray

What Living Proof says: A weightless heat and UV protectant spray that can be used on damp or dry hair. Helps to protect during heat styling for heat protection up to 450°, protect hair from UV rays for up to 24 hours plus provides shine, smoothness and polish.

What I say: I don’t use heat styling tools often at all, but when I do, even if it is just diffusing, I reach for this first to protect my hair. It can be used on wet or dry hair. It adds lots of shine and I like the protection. It’s lightweight and doesn’t weigh the hair down. Now that it is summer and I am outside and in the sun more, I always spray this on my hair before leaving this house so my color doesn’t fade in the sun. This hairspray has no hold so if you are looking for a hairspray with hold, there are other choices but this will not do that.

Restore Shampoo

What Living Proof says: A gentle shampoo for dry, damaged hair that when used as part of the Restore regimen, helps hair behave like it was never damaged at all after just 1 use. Helps to cleanse while helping restore moisture levels to that of healthy, undamaged hair, instantly restore damaged hair cuticles so they act like new and repel dirt and oil so you can shampoo & style less often for a healthier hair care routine.

What I say: This is one of my favorite shampoos. I have been using it weekly after going to the beach and it thoroughly removes all the salt water, sand, sunscreen and junk without stripping sulfates. It lathers a little bit and somehow detangles a lot of my hair! A SHAMPOO THAT HELPS DETANGLES?!? Crazy but I’ll take it. When I rinse this shampoo my hair is left oh so very soft. I love it. This is one shampoo where I have no fear of applying it roots to tips.

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Restore Conditioner

What Living Proof says: Tangle removing, softness restoring, shine renewing, strand healing. A moisture balancing conditioner for dry, damaged hair that when used as part of the Restore regimen, helps hair behave like it was never damaged at all after just 1 use.  Helps to condition while helping restore moisture levels to that of healthy, undamaged hair, instantly restore damaged hair cuticles so they act like new and repel dirt and oil so you can wash and style less often for a healthier hair care routine.

What I say: Out of the whole restore line, I use this product the least but it’s not because it is a bad product. It is an excellent conditioner but because I only wash my hair 2 times a week usually, I use a mask each time and don’t need regular conditioner. This does make a very nice leave in and if I have an extra third wash I will use this as my conditioner. It makes detangling effortless and overall makes my hair feel healthy and soft.

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It was around Christmas 2012 and my boyfriend asked me what I wanted.

“I want the Huetiful Hair Steamer!” I pleaded asked. He was a bit confused as to why I didn’t want something like jewelry, but I have been eyeing that steamer for months prior. Fast forward to more than a year and a half later and this was one of the best Christmas presents I have ever received! It is absolutely worth it as a gift, or a splurge and your hair will be oh so thankful for it. So what exactly is it? What does it do?

The Huetiful Hair Steamer is an at home hair steaming device that will change your hair for the better.

Why use a steamer?

Using steam with your deep conditioning treatments, whether they are moisture or protein based will help the treatment work even better for your hair than they already do. It helps increase the moisture and hydration of the hair up to 5 times better than just using a conditioner alone. It also helps strengthen the hair by replenishing moisture lost to damage from keratin treatments, relaxers or overuse of heat tools. It also significantly reduces breakage and split ends caused by dry hair while improving manageability. The steamer is on a timer pre-set and will automatically shut off after a session is done. Sometimes I do add more water and do a double steam session if I have the time.

Those are their words. So what are mine?

Because my hair is color treated and naturally super dry (thanks, genetics”> I try to use my steamer once a week. There are times I will do it once every other week but I usually don’t wait any longer than that between steam treatments. Based on your personal preferences and condition of your hair, you can steam even once a month and still gain the excellent benefits but the more you steam, of course the better! If you do color treat your hair, make sure to wait 10 days after you get your color done to steam or it is possible to lose some of your freshly color pigments in your hair. This also goes for any kind of heated deep treatment.

I also notice added shine, extra bounce and my strands feel softer.

From my first time using the steamer and every time after, the main benefit I notice is my 2c/3a curl definition always increases after the treatment.

I have been trying to grow my hair really long for a few years now and I think the addition of steam to my deep conditioners is helping to make my hair strong. The steamer also helps nutrients from deep conditioner penetrate to the scalp which can also help to promote hair growth.

How to Use It

For maximum benefits out of my Huetiful Hair Steamer on my long, thick waves, I like to apply my deep conditioner of choice in my hair section by section then combing out any tangles. After that I make 4 to 6 mini buns on the top of my head and clip them secure. This just helps the steam to penetrate my hair more evenly and effectively as opposed to just one big, thick bun. I also like the leave the ends of my hair out of the buns because they are the oldest so really need the most treatment they can get. During the winter, when the air is very dry, hair benefits from steamer treatments so much. Using the steamer helped my hair not be completely limp, dull and dryness this past brutally cold winter. 

My steamer also came with the facial add on. I like using this also because not only is it relaxing but it keeps my skin soft, hydrated and helps open up my pores so when I use a clay mask after it really helps remove any impurities.

If you are on the fence about whether the Huetiful Hair Steamer is worth it, jump over that fence! I think you will be pleased and it will attribute to many good hair days that to me, are priceless.

See what others in the curly community have to say about the Huetiful Steamer here. And if you’ve used it, remember to leave your review, too!