Product Review: Cantu for Natural Hair Conditioning Creamy Hair Lotion

Hey Naturals!!

Recently Cantu Shea Butter has been getting my business so I had to start reviewing the products I've tried! This product is a moisturizer. The packaging states that it can be used on curly, kinky and wavy hair to moisturize, detangle, soften and provide shine. So let's see if the claims are true. Each category will get a score of 1-5 KoilyKinks!

Softness - 5 KKs

Yes yes yes!! My hair was like a soft pillow after using this product. I've don't both braidouts and twistouts with it and no complaints! My 4C hair is usually dry and crunchy/crispy, NOT a good look. This is why I started doing the LOC and LCO methods but curlfriend I had no need for layering with this bad boy!!

Moisture - 4 KKs

Moisture galore, do you hear me?? The only reason I don't  give this product a 5 is for the heaviness. If you use too much of this product or have thinner strands, your hair will be weighed down. But do not confuse my message, this stuff is packed with moisture and will have your hair feeling right for days! I apply this on wash day to style and don't have to remoisturize!!! (However, you should know your porosity)

Consistency- 5 or 3.5 KKs (Seasonal)

I love a thick and creamy hair lotion/moisturizer and that's what you will get from this product. My only thought is that this lotion is best for the winter months. I can't see myself using this in the warmer season as I prefer lighter moisturizers in summer months. So this is strictly based on preference.

Shine - 5 KKs

Yes GAWD!!!! If you have dry, dull 4C hair like myself go get a bottle!!! My hair not only felt great it looked great, especially close up! No complaints here! I'm lovin it!!!

The Wrap Up

I can't say this hair lotion is a new staple of mine but it's definitely getting me through this winter season. Great moisturizer! Period. Cantu never disappoints me. Love it!!!!!

Three Favorite Things of 2014: Natural Hair

Hey CURLfriends!

This has been a great year!! I became a mommy for the second time, I big chopped for the second time and there was you, my audience who really showed interest in my words, thanks! I can't begin to express how great God is in spite of so many things. But this isn't testimony hour..Lol. Let's talk Favorite NATURAL HAIR Things of 2014!!

As I Am Twist Defining Cream!!!

I love this stuff for my Twist Outs, Braid Outs etc. Yes HAIR!!!! This baby was a game changer this year for me. Its a new staple of mine! Check out my full review for why I love this stuff so much.

Flat Twists

This year I officially perfected my flat twists and my flat twisted FROhawk was born!!! Yes flat twists made this year a sweet one!! Love them!!!

Avocado Oil

Can we talk about moisture retention & hydration?? I love avocado oil! No it's not a moisturizer, no oil is but this baby comes close. It penetrates my hair what do well and helps smooth, soften, add shine, yes ma'am it does!! This baby is a new staple of mine. Thanks 2014!!

My Ipsy Subscription!!! November Glam Bag

Hey Beauties!

So I recently subscribed to the ipsy glam bag.  It's a $10 monthly subscription similar to curlbox or curlkit that is sll about beauty! I'm talking from makeup, to skincare,  haircare and nail care! This month I received my first glam bag. Super hype!!!!! I recieved 5 products in total. A mix of samples and full size.

J. Cat Wonder Lip Paint
Be a Bombshell Eye Base
beDelectable hand cream
Starlooks gem pencil
Glam Glow Powermud Dualcleanse Treatment

Here's the best thing about this subscription though, these items were picked for me based on a quiz I took when I started the subscription. Each person's bag is different!!! Love it, Love it, Love it!! Reviews on the individual products to come!!!!!

Thanks for Reading!

What Kind of Co washer are you?

When choosing a co wash product you must take into consideration one very crucial detail..your regimen! What kind of cowasher are you? When do you shampoo, if ever? These questions are important.

The Strictly Co wash Natural

The Strictly co wash Natural DOES NOT shampoo or doesn't shampoo for long periods of time. She believes the shampoo only strips her hair and makes it dry. If this is you, you want to clarify at some point to break down buildup. The co wash for you is a cleansing conditioner or regular conditioner that does not contain non-soluble silicones.

The Mid-Week/Between Shampoos Co wash Natural

If you're a mid-Week or between shampoos cowasher your use co washing to prolong the moisture and cleanliness of your hair til your next wash. You co wash to refresh and remoisturize your hair and the conditioner you use to co wash doesn't really matter because you shampoo often.

Trying Out Co washing?

If you're just trying out co washing in your routine you have plenty of choices. My suggestion is that you try co washing wit a cheapy conditioner like VO5 to see if you like co washing, this way you don't break the bank on a method that doesn't suit you. If you fall in love with co washing and add it to your regimen I suggest you try a cleansing conditioner. Based on how often you shampoo you'll be able to decide the kind of cowasher you are and what co wash to use.

Stay Tuned for the next post! I'll explore why I suggest certain co wash products based on the cowasher you are!

As Always Thanks for Reading!

-Samantha Michelle

No Poo November

Hey Naturalistas, I'm back!!!

This November is No Poo November for Koily Kinks And Things! It's all about Co washing and I'm going to give you tips, tricks and products to make your co wash days a natural success! Stay Tuned.

First Protective Updo of the Season!

I'm too excited about my first flat twisted updo! If you've been following the blog for some time now you know I LOVE LOVE LOVE flat twists and I love flat twisted updos! Well this Fall/Winter season I plan to explore the many possibilities of flat twists. My first protective style was a hit and I loved it, honey! It was a flat twisted hawkpomp situation with added kanekalon hair in the top. Nothing to say but POW! I kept the style in for 2 weeks and it held up! If only I could stop having hands in hair syndrome, I would have left it in longer! LOL. The next time I do a style like this I'll do a tutorial so stay tuned!

Post Partum Hair Loss & Regrowth Update

Hey Naturalistas!

So it's been about 4 weeks since I started using JBCO on my edges to help regrow them after post partum hair loss. I also started taking Nature's Bounty Hair Skin & Nails Gummy Vitamins. They taste great and I feel great. But this post is not about..Lol. THIS post is about how pleased I am with my hair growth (edges). Below are before and after pictures from both sides of my head. Here is the routine that I've been doing:

Daily: Vitamin gummies (4) double dose
Nightly: JBCO on edgeline (covered completely), Bonnet (satin trimmed edge) or scarf
Styling: Low maintenance w.out pulling on edges. Ex. Mini twists

I'm too too excited about my results so far. I still have more work to do but the shedding has decreased significantly so only time will tell what happens next!

Thanks For Reading!

Fall/Winter Modified Regimen

So we are now into the Fall season so of course it's time to switch things up when it comes to your natural. You may be putting some products to the side and changing up methods. Remember to keep it simple, moisturized, and protected. Here is my modified regimen methods:

Protective Style - every 4 to 6 weeks

One wash day per month:

Hot Oil Treatment - 1x monthly using Avacado oil, EVOO & EVCO or JBCO

Deep Condition - 1x monthly

Sulfate Free Shampoo - 1x monthly

Cowash - with loose braid or twists styles (as needed)

Aloe Vera Juice or ACV rinse - BiMonthly

Oil Rinses - BiMonthly

Protein Treatment - BiMonthly

Scalp Massages - As needed

Trim - As/If needed

Products:

Shampoos: Shea Moisture Raw Shea Butter Moisture Retention Shampoo & Beautiful Curls Curly to Kinky Curl Activating Shampoo with Fair Trade Shea Butter

Cowashes: As I Am Cowash, Eden Cowash or Tresemee Naturals & VO5

Deep Conditioner: Shea Moisture Raw Shea Butter Deep Treatment Masque & Extra Moisture Masque

Leave in: LOC in a spray bottle, Cantu Shea Butter Leave in (colder months)

Butters: Shea Butter Mix, Jane Carter Nourish & Shine

What products will you be using this Fall/Winter season? How are you changing up your regimen? What products do you find to be great during colder months?

Comment Below or email me @ koilyandkute@gmail.com with fall/winter suggestions!

So I Lightened My Hair!!!

Before I say ANYTHING in this post. I have to give my disclaimer..Lol

1. I am not a licensed cosmetologist or beautician. I went to YouTube Institute of Trial & Error (Hahaa)
2. I am not recommending anyone try this method. I am simply sharing my experience with trying this out.
3. There are many factors that contributed to my results.

Okay...
With that said, here we GO!

Lightening Your NATURAL with Baking Soda & Peroxide!

My mixture was completely eyeballed! (Hey this was an impulsive experiment)
Here is was I mixed together though.

-Baking Soda
-Drug store Hydrogen Peroxide
-Jamaican Black Castor Oil
-Conditioner

Baking Soda as we know, helps to lift the cuticles. The peroxide lifts the color and the JBCO and conditioner was for moisture purposes.

I sectioned my hair how I always do when I Deep condition or do A protein treatment (6 sections). I had just taken my hair out from my mini twists. There are two things I did that allowed for the color to not lift as much. 1. I did this on dirty hair and 2. The conditioner and JBCO acted as a shield or inhibitor. I applied the mix section my section and worked it in as you would your deep conditioner, covered with a plastic cap, put my heat therapy wrap on the wrapped that in a towel and sat for 40 minutes. I was anxious, nervous and excited..Lol I'm a geek!

I then rinsed the mix out thoroughly with warm water and shampooed with Cantu Shea Butter for Natural Hair Sulfate Free Cream Cleansing Shampoo. Here is the best part for me. I have Low Po (porosity) hair for the most part and the baking soda made my cuticles lift allowing my hair to absorb more moisture! My hair was so soft y'all!!!!! Anyway..Lol I shampooed, sectioned again and applied my Deep Conditoner (Shea Moisture Raw Shea Butter Deep Treatment Masque). I sat with the Masque on for 20 minutes then did a ACV rinse with the deep conditioner still on my hair. Lastly I rinsed with cold water.

My Results

I still want to go into the sun to see how light it really is BUT I now have highlights. It's a light brown, mostly on the tips which I don't mind. Overall the baking soda was the best part. being a low po girl ain't easy! To style I spray my leave-in (LOC in a bottle), sealed with my Shea Butter Mix and braided for a braid out!

Very important!!! As you would with any color process use Vaseline to base your edges and ears. This mix irritates the skin!! I forgot to do so and had to put some JBCO on my skin to stop the itching and clear up the irritation.

Let me know what you think! Or if you've tried this share your experience either in the comments or email: koilyandkute@gmail.com!

Thanks for Reading!

My Tips for Moisturizing & Moisture Retention

The information I'm going to share will be based on porosity. Feel free to scroll to the part that pertains to you but the information is good to know either way. If you are unsure what your porosity is here is a quick how to on testing for porosity:

STEP 1: Get a bowl. Fill with room temp water.
STEP 2: Place clean, dry shed hair into bowl. (I suggest hair from the shower or sink that has shed during your wash routine NOT pull hairs from you head)
STEP 3: Watch how hair reacts to the water. (Watching over time will increase accuracy) Does it float? Low porosity! Does it sink? High porosity! Hang out in the middle? Normal porosity!

Moisturizing Your Low Porosity Hair

If your hair floated welcome to the low po team! Your hair absorb little to no moisture, yay! (Sarcasm) The key to moisturizing low po hair is opening those cuticles for moisture to absorb better. How do you do this? Use substances with a higher pH or that are known to lift those cuticle layers. So what can you use?

*Warm water
*Baking Soda
*Vegetable Glycerin
*Black Coffee (Yes I said Coffee)

How can they be used?
Wash your in warm water or put warm water in your spray bottle.
You can add baking soda to you deep conditioner.
Vegetable glycerin (a humectant that attracts moisture form the atmosphere) can be put in your spray bottle, added to Deep Conditioner and other mixes.
Black Coffee can be used as a final rinse or rinsed through the hair prior to Deep conditioning.

Now that you've opened the cuticle moisturize with a water based product. This can include leave in sprays, leave in creams, spray moisturizers/creams and those lovely home made concoctions! I believe the LCO method works the best for low porosity hair. I have used water as my L(iquid) in this example. Leave in as the C(ream) which I suggest be creamy with slip, and now O(il)! The Oil you use will be based on the thickness or thinness of your strands. Thin strands will be weighed down by oils like castor oil and possibly EVOO so you might prefer grapseed, coconut, or jojoba oils. Thicker strands will be able to withstand EVOO or castor oil however castor oil is SUPER thick. In winter months I suggest sealing with a butter. I do LOCB or LCOB. Either one work well.

Be generous when moisturizing! Its better to have excess than to starve your hair!

Moisturizing Your High Porosity Hair

So your hair is highly porous! Not a problem. Time to go to work! You have the hardest time retaining moisture. Your hair cuticles aren't closing well enough to lock in moisture and that stuff is just evaporating right out! So what will help close those cuticles? Substances with a lower pH than your hair! Like:

*Lemon Juice
*Aloe Vera juice/gel
*ACV

All of these can be added to your spray bottle, rinsed through your hair as a final rinse, and added to Deep conditioners and other homemade recipes.

Both Porosity Types can...

Moisturize using the LOC or LCO methods! We can all also use the substances that aid in closing the cuticle. I know many say closing the cuticle won't help low po hair BUT if you're opening your cuticle well enough you'll need to close that sucker back up..LOL. You're cuticle will not lock down like the Pentagon under attack and stop moisture from coming in after using a substance with lower pH. They aid in eliminating tangles because the cuticles aren't getting caught up on each other as they are now laying flatter. They also assist in achieveing shinier and healthier lookin hair. Say goodbye to that dry, dull look and feel.

Final Words...

Deep Condition weekly.

If need be to correct dryness co wash with a co wash product or conditioner that doesn't have silicones. (Dimethicone, amodinethicone etc.) Silicones cause build up when not washed or shampooed out with a sulfate shampoo. (And we don't want those sulfates!)

Sulfate free shampoo monthly while correcting dryness is okay. Find one that your hair likes!

Pay attention to your entire hair strand. Root to ends! Many times we neglect those ends.

Clip those ends (as needed!) when they're raggedy and just won't stay moisturized to keep the rest of your hair healthy.

DRINK WATER!!! Become a fish if you have to..LOL!

That's all for now.

Thanks for Reading!

My Current Regimen: One Year Post ReChop!

Normal Regimen Schedule:

Sunday - Wash, Deep Condition, Style for the week
*Take down - (if twist or braid out) at least 24 hrs later.
*Nightly - oil (JBCO) on edges for post partum regrowth
Retwist/ Mini pineapples at night w.scarf or bonnet.

Protective Style Regimen Schedule:

Sunday - (starting style) Wash, Deep Condition, Set protective style
*Nightly - oil (JBCO) on edges for post partum regrowth.
Bun (if done with extension hair)
Scarf on edges/ usual scarf or bonnet
Style with own hair - Co wash if/as needed the leave in/LOC in a bottle.
Style with extension hair - Co wash/shampoo if/as needed. Style in for 4 weeks tops. Scalp spray for itching if/as needed.

Treatments:

Hot oil - Monthly
Protein - Monthly
Rinses - As needed

Trim:

As needed without straightening. Hair is sectioned into 6 sections, 4 or more twists in each, dust ends with shears.

Products I currently use:

Cleansing - Cantu Shea Butter For natural Hair Sulfate Free Cream Cleasning Shampoo (Great stuff!!!!)
VO5 Tea Therapy Clarifying Conditioner (I co wash with this. It has NO silicones which makes it better for co washing! Less chance of build up issues) -OR- As I Am Cleansing Co wash

Deep Conditioner - Shea Moisture Raw Shea Butter Deep Treatment Masque (will be trying other soon)

Leave in - My LOC in a bottle (VO5 Free Me Freesia, water & EVOO)

Protein Treatment - Elucence Extended Moisture Repair Treatment or ApHogee 2-minute Keratin Treatment

Oils - EVOO, Coconut, JBCO

Essential Oils - Peppermint, Tea Tree (trying rosemary and lavender soon)

Butter - Whipped Shea Butter Mix

Itch Spray - EVOO, lemon juice, Tea Tree oil, aloe Vera juice or water

Multi Purpose - Aloe Vera Juice, ACV

5 Reasons Why Your Hair is Dry

Oh dryness! This has ALWAYS been my biggest problem with my hair. Here are my top 5 Reasons why your hair might be dry!

1. You Don't Know Your Porosity.

Porosity is so very very important when it comes to battling dryness. Porosity in a nut shell is your hair's ability to absorb and retain moisture. There must be a balance between low porosity (little to no absorption) and high porosity (absorption with little to no retention). Porosity issues can be fixed once porosity is identified.

2. You Only Use Stylers/Puddings

Many people get so focused on definition, the don't realize if they moisturized properly they'd get definition without the use of gel, stylers and puddings. Moisturizing properly and controlling porosity eliminates frizz and the need to "tame". If you're not using conditioners or water based moisturizers to first moisturize THEN a styling product and only using a styling product your hair might be experiencing dryness.

3. You Wash Your Hair in Hot Water

Washing our hair in hot water can have adverse affects over time. It can open the hair cuticle making the hair more and more porous causing dry, dull, frizzy hair and more and more frustration. Warm washes and cold rinses help to first remove dirt and excess oils then seal and close the cuticles when a wash is complete.

4. You Don't Seal/Well Enough

Sealing in moisture is essential. Two of the best oils to seal with on dry hair are EVOO (extra virgin olive oil) and castor oil, especially during the winter months. If you're not sealing, the moisture is evaporating and drying right out of your hair! Now on the other hand you may be sealing but not well enough. Like running your hands through your head with a dime size of oil on your hands KNOWING you no longer have a twa! Lol. Section by section is the way to go, Sis!

5. Product Build Up

We all love cowashing but product build up is a mother! And cowashing cannot cleanse your hair of gunk!!!!! Though it is great on a weekly basis or daily depending on your needs, try to shampoo at least once a month to keep product build up to a minimum. Product build up can cause the hair to become weighed down, suffocated and dry. Not a a good look! Remember a good sulfate free gentle shampoo won't hurt!

Thanks for reading!

*Upcoming post: How To Test for Porosity*

I DID IT!: Lady

Name: Lady (fellow blogger)

Age: 31

Location: Paterson, NJ

My Story:I big chopped one year ago
Ive had very long permed hair since I was 10.

I DID IT because...Turning 30 prompted me to make a drastic change and I love it!!

Stay Tuned for the launch of Lady's Fashion and lifestyle blog!

*Follow Lady on Twitter & IG: @innercitylady*

Post Partum Shedding: OH My Edges!

So I took down my twists..

*sigh* Before I continue to go on a rant about post partum shedding, thinning edges and aggravation let me just say I'm excited to be celebrating one year post rechop this month!!! Woohoo!!! Now back to the regularly scheduled program.

OH MY EDGES!!! As soon as I took out the first twist on the perimeter of my hair, I knew what was up (lol). I am 4 months post partum and the shedding has come :( Why oh why my edges though?? Okay, getting sidetracked. So you may be thinking that I had my twists too tight or I was using a brush and its breakage. Nope! Entire hairs left my scalp. (Come back!)

As I mourn my edges whatever have I begun to do to restore them? JBCO also known as Jamaican Black Castor Oil baby!! When my edges broke off from permanent color, I grew them back with this stuff and I plan to so it again! Bald edges? No ma'am, not me!

More updates to come! If you know how to pray, pray for the speedy return of my edges! Lol.

Til next time,
Samantha Michelle

Big Chop Tips: Do Your Research!

The Big Chop is a BIG step. I mean we don't go around chopping our hair off everyday! Though I'm the first one in a room to say it's just hair, I'll also be the first one to say, DO YOUR RESEARCH!! You're going from one hair life to another. You need to get yourself informed for the road ahead or else post BC will be a time of separation anxiety and depression (YES it happens). Allow YouTube to be your Oracle! Join natural hair groups, forums, online communities etc. When you know, you're hair will grow!

I DID IT!: Ashley

Name: Ashley Cochran 

Location: Chicago

My Story:
I am 28 year old mom of three and future med student. I've had a love/hate relationship with my hair for years and it would get REALLY long and then start to thin and break (totally heartbreaking). I big chopped in April of this year and I love it! It was so liberating to cut it all off. I promise, I feel like a brand new woman!

I did it because...

I wanted to know what my hair really looked like because I've been relaxed for as long as I can remember.

Follow Ashley: @AshCake0 on Instagram 

Big Chop Tips: Use Shears!

Regular scissors are too dull to cut hair efficiently! Use shears.

The 'I DID IT' Big Chop Series

Introducing the 'I DID IT' Big Chop Series featuring beautiful naturalistas telling why they decided to chop it off and liberate themselves. For the month of August help us celebrate the liberation of the big chop!

I DID IT!: Amanda

Name: Amanda

Age: 20

Location: New Jersey

My Story:
I started out transitioning before my big chop but my ends were always stringy and I prefered my natural hair. I Big Chopped August 2012! (Happy Choppiversary!) I love my natural texture, the patterns of my curls and the variety in styling.

I Did It...because natural hair is healthier and has so much versatility!

5 Tips for Summer Hair Care

Though this summer hasn't been super hot, the sun is still hanging, we're still sweating and our hair still needs care so here are 5 of my tips for caring for your hair during the summer months!

1. Keep your hair and scalp clean.
The heat can cause you to sweat more and increase itchiness as well as build up. You might consider cleansing (co wash or shampoo) more frequently if you have the time. If not stay tuned there's a tip for you!

2. Moisture Baby!
Although winter air is drier you ALWAYS need moisture for your natural and during the summer months it's a matter of switching up your routine to moisturize for Sumner conditions. So maybe you'll use a lighter moisturizer and a lighter oil to keep from having hair that's weighed down but make sure to deep condition and listen to your strands!

3. Protective Styling anyone?
For those who want their hair away during the summer months, here's a top for you! Be sure to pick a style that can be maintained easily, gives you ability to moisturize your hair and cleanse your scalp! Also look out for those edges, making sure they're not being pulled or stressed.

4. Going Swimming?
If you're hair isn't in a protective style and you want to swim here's a thought. Twist your hair with conditioner or an oil like EVOO to create a barrier of protection against the effects of the chlorine. Chlorine is a chemical and can cause dryness. Protect those strands!

5. Use that Shea Butter!
Shea Butter is a natural sunscreen and can aid in protecting your skin and hair from the sun. Especially for those who have color treated hair, try that Shea butter! I'd suggest using it in a melted state so you don't weigh down your hair and can keep your styles light and free.

Thanks for Reading!

My Vacation/Summer Do

Hey Beauties!

So, last week I posted a sneak peek to show off my vacation/Summer do and yes I was super excited about how my hair came out! Now that I am back from my family reunion, here are the details on my hair!

Materials

4 packs (cut in half) of 100% kanekalon braiding hair
Scissors
Hair clips
Hair bands
Coconut oil
Eco styler Olive Oil Gel
Spray bottle (plain water)
Beautiful Textures Moisture Butter or Other Moisturizer (if hair isn't moisturized)

Prep

I sectioned my hair into 6 sections for easier twisting and held each section with a hair band. Before starting a section I sprayed lightly with water and applied coconut oil, (my hair already had moisture butter in it) gently combed and applied eco styler and proceeded to part and twist.

Method

I did the invisible root method for a natural look. My twists were twisted in a Havana twist manner so I call them Havana twists although I didn't use Havana hair.

How's it holding up?

Great! I love this style. My hair is away and I can focus on enjoying my summer! To maintain I will refresh the twists around my edges and spray my twists and scalp with my anti itch mix (water, lemon juice, olive oil, tea tree oil). I plan on keeping these twists in for 4-6 weeks tops then take down hot oil treatment, wash and deep condition.

For more information email specific questions to koilyandkute@gmail.com!

Thanks for reading!

Quick & Easy Vacation Hair Sneak Peek

Hey Beauties!

Here's a sneak peek of my Quick & Easy Vacation do! Full style details will be in a future post. Stay tuned!

Twist-Out on a TWA: Beautiful Textures Moisture Butter Review

Hey y'all!

So if you follow me on social media then you know I was super hype two days ago about the twists I achieved using Beautiful Textures Moisture Butter. Well let me tell y'all I have found a new staple product!! This stuff is so good, my hair is happy, honey! For this review I will rate each category I mention on a 1-5 scale. This will be the format for my reviews from now on. So let's get to it!

Smell: 5-Mmm Mmm Good!

This stuff smells like a warm summer! For those that have used Bath & Body Works products, if you remember a scent called Forever Sunshine the smell of this product reminds me of that. I have no problem walking around with hair that smells like a warm body fragrance. That just adds to my sexy! Lol.

Consistency: 3-Medium Thick

This butter is like the perfect consistency. It's not super dense or thick and spreads well so a little goes a long way. I applied from ends to roots when styling.

Moisture: 5-Hydration Baby!

To see just how moisturizing this product was I applied on my hair when it was about 80% dry having used very little leave in. My hair looked shiny and moisturized after twisting and it felt buttery smooth. After drying it still looked shiny and moisturized and felt super soft.

*Please keep in mind my hair type when considering my reviews. I'm mostly 4c/b/a with a small section of 3c. For 3c hair types try mixing this product with Beautiful Textures Curl Control for increased hold and definition.

Creme of Nature Straight from Eden Review

Hey Curlfriends!

Like I stated in my last post, my first review from the June Cocotique subscription box is here. I've tested the new Creme of Nature line and I'm ready to share my experience with you!

What Does the Line Consist of?

This line includes a relaxer kit, hydrating shampoo, conditioning treatment, detangling leave-in and repairing oil. All products are said to include plant derived ingredients from coconut and other sources. This line is clearly not just for the natural sistas but promotes healthy hair care with no sulfates, parabens, petrolatum or mineral oil.

Hydrating Shampoo

This stuff smells amazing!!!!! I'be been strictly a co wash girl for a minute but this shampoo just might turn me out! Lol. It lathers great, cleans gently and smells (like I said) amazing!!!!! My hair didn't feel stripped or dry once I rinsed and that is a plus for a 4c chick like myself. All around this stuff is g-o-o-d!

Conditioning Treatment

Another smell good product!! My Oh My! Lol...anyway, great consistency and my fear with using a sample was not having enough for my hair. Well y'all I had nothing to fear at all! I applied the treatment and detangled while in the shower. My hair felt all kinds of good and detangled pretty well. Soft & luscious were my tresses! Oh yes! My only draw back would be the dimethicone!!! Ugh! I try to stay away from the cones as much as possible BUT my hair responded happily. Oh how torn I am!!

Detangling Leave-in

Now with this product I had to go on a hunt to see how it is packaged in full size. It is a spray and of course the sample is a pouch so I'll tell you ladies this, the product smells lovely and it lightweight and leaves the hair soft and supple however using the sample can in no way give me the full experience so this review is a to be continued! I will purchase the full size and give a review in coming weeks. So stay tuned!

My Overall Impression, though?

LOVE this line!! I recommend it 100% unless you are dead set against those dimethicones!!! But even in that I believe it's worth a try. Find yourself some samples and try!

Thanks for reading!

My Current Do

Hey Curlfriends!

So here's the goings on with my current style. I mixed up my own styler last week! Trying to get a styler that didn't flake, wasn't hard and added moisture/shine to my tresses just to see if I could pull it off. Of course the base was gel and oils but I added a bit of Shea butter and conditioner too. Completely an experiment but it worked out greattt!! With my new concoction I decided to do my go to faux hawk flat twist style. I flat twisted the sides and back up and left the middle to be styled. Usually I'd do a flat twist out or two strand twist out but this time I decided to do finger coils. The upside to this change was it has lasted me longer. Though I may need to see if it's the finger coils or styler or both, I'm very pleased with my results. Looks like this hair will last through the weekend! Yankee doodle dandy!!! Lol ;-*

Thanks for reading!

Cocotique June Unboxing

Hey Ladies!! So I mentioned on my Instagram and Facebook that I won the June Cocotique subscription box in a givejaway hosted by Freda Fro. (Hey Girl!) Lol..anyway I was supposed to post this on Monday and in true mommy fashion, I got busy with the kiddies! So let's get to it!

My immediate emotion was excitement. New things to try!!! Like a big kid I couldnt wait to open it. As pictured, the box says Cocotique on it. Inside, the contents, held in neatly wrapped tissue paper (pictured) with a Cocotique sticker and packed neatly. Also packed inside, is the box menu. A list of the itemsmin the box with descriptions for each and price points for thenfull size of each. This particular box contained only one full size item butnit varies month to month. 

Box Menu:

AFRICAN PRIDE Olive Miracle Moisturizing Lotion

APHOGEE Keratin 2-minute Reconstructor

BEAUTIFUL TEXTURES Moisture Butter

BEAUTIFUL TEXTURES Curl Defining Pudding

BLACK OPAL Color Splurge Luxe Matte Lipstick

BLACK RADIANCE Eye Appeal Lasting Mascara

CREME OF NATURE Argan Pudding Perfection

CREME OF NATURE Argan Butter-Licious Curls

CREME OF NATURE Eden Plant Derived Hydrating Shampoo

CREME OF NATURE Eden Plant Derived Detangling Leave-In

CREME OF NATURE Plant Derived Conditioning Treatment 

MISS JESSIE'S Multicultural Curls

MIZANI Thermosmooth Shine Extend

MIZANI Thermasmooth Smooth Guard

All items were sample sizes except the BLACK RADIANCE Mascara.

Stay tuned for future posts as I try put these products!

Post Partum Update: Shedding

Uggghhh!!! Its that time again for me. Second pregnancy, second child, post partum hair shedding! Though my shedding this time isn't as bad as the last, excessive shedding never puts a smile on my face!!

Whatever Shall I do?!

Black tea rinses did it for me the first time so I'll definitely revisit that method. Ironically I watched a YT video posted by Jenell B Stewart on what she's choosing to do about her post partum shedding. She's taking Hairfinity! It seems once again my secret desire to try a hair vitamin has arrised but due to the negative reviews I've heard like breakouts from the Hairfinity vitamin and hair thinning O_O, I will definitely weigh my options first. Thankfully my hair isn't shedding in clumps like some women so it might just be black tea and JBCO to do the trick for me! 

More updates to come!

The Natural Hair Nazi

Heyy Ladies!!

I've been on a break from posting for no particular reason and I have written about this topic briefly before but as I observe natural hair groups on FB I must revisit my utter disgust.

The Natural Hair Nazi is a serious problem in the natural hair community and it's another form of black women judging and tearing down one another. I have seen women who have been natural for some time be out right nasty to women who are just getting into the game as well as attack women who prefer things from hair growth vitamins to wigs/weaves as protective styles. It HAS TO stop! These groups are supposed to uplift women who get discouraged during their journey. Women who aren't used to or haven't developed the natural hair mindset.

What makes one woman more natural than the next?

Please answer this questions for me? I have read where some women believe you are not natural unless you wear your natural 100% all the time. Meaning no braid/twist extensions, no wigs, no weaves, just your natural hair. This belief is all fine and good, the problem comes when one woman attacks another based on this belief. Telling women that they aren't "real naturals" is ridiculous. If this is the case we're all fake naturals to someone!

My Definition of Natural
Using NO chemicals in your natural hair with the intention of altering the state in the hair grows from your scalp.

Be YOUR Kind of Natural!! Do what makes you happy and get with women who will encourage, empower and uplift you Iyour journey. At the end of any day, that's all that matters!

Comment below and let me know your opinion and what you've seen!

Love you for reading, as always!

Product Review: As I Am Twist Defining Cream

Hey Curlies!!!

This past weekend I happily wore my new and improved twist out thanks to As I Am Twist Defining Cream! This stuff gave me the BEST twist out I've had since my second BC. The product is a cream styler that claims to give touchable hold, definition and shine and it smells quite like the As I Am Coconut Co-wash. It's thicker in consistency and slightly sticky while drying but it isn't gel like at all. 

So let's get to it..I don't think I have been this excited about a new product in a minute! (Since I first tried the Co-wash) One of my friends passed this product off to me and I LOVE it!! Everything that it claims to do on the jar, it did for me! 

Now, I place emphasis on the words "for me". Each head is different and though I am now in love with this product, it might not work for the next natural. This is something we HAVE to remember. Not everyone's review is going to be the same nor will everyone's advice be useful. It's all trial and error! I'm still trying and making errors but I love my natural in the good times and the better times! 

I most definitely recommend this product to my curly/coily chicks trying to get movement, softness and definition into their twist outs or other styles. Check it out boo!

Love y'all for reading!

Soft & Fluffy Bantu Knot Out

Heyyyy Y'all!! Hope you had a great holiday weekend!

Recently I did a post about refreshing a flat twist out by doing a Bantu Knot out. It was the first time I was doing a Bantu Knot out since my big hair days and I wasn't sure if I'd like it. To my surprise I like it, no, I LOVED it! So of course I had to take another crack at it. This time I used the Taliah Wajjid Protective Mist Bodifier (Leave-in), my Shea butter mix, EVOO, and of course water in a spray bottle when needed. 

The Process

On damp hair I created a side part in the front like I do with most of my styles. Parted into four sections then 4-5 "knot sections" per section. When working on a "knot section" I worked in some of the leave-in followed by Shea butter (only on ends) then finishing with the EVOO (worked for me but a different order might work for others). Next, I used my Denman brush to smooth out my strands, my hair was already detangled. Once twisted I secured each knot with a bobby pin. If your hair is longer you probably won't need any though. 

The Results

My hair obtained better hold while feeling soft, fluffy and moisturized! Great results without any styler, gel or puddings. Plus! I love it. Comment with your thoughts/suggestions for next time! 

Love you for reading ;-*

My Regimen: What I do when

Pre-Poo: Once a month before a shampoo

Shampoo: Once a month. (Clarifying shampoo)

Co-Wash: Once a week 

Deep Condition: Every time I cleanse (Cowash/shampoo) 

Protein Treatment: Once a month 

LCO: After every cleanse & before styling. 

Oils I use:

Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Coconut Oil, Jojoba Oil, Wild Growth Hair Oil

Oil Rinse: When needed

Clip Ends: When needed

NO HEAT!!!!!!!! 

7 Tips for Length Retention

Happy Monday Curlfriends!!

Over the weekend I decided to do a random length check because I felt my hair was a bit longer than it was when I checked it in the beginning of last month and it turns out I was right! The pic from this month isn't level to the pic from last month so the difference isn't as great as it seems but by the placement of my finger, you can see it's lower on my nose. =D I haven't taken any growth supplements or vitamins yet (I plan to start in June) and my hair is still flourishing at it's own pace! So here's some tips that I've found helpful in keeping my hair healthy and retaining length!

1. Utilize Protective Styling.

From my first BC in 2010 I learned that protective styling was very important to keeping my hair from breaking. It helped me keep my hands out of my hair minimizing stress and friction on my hair strands. It also kept my ends tucked away in most cases, protecting them from being dry and brittle and losing moisture. 

2. Deep Conditioning goes a long way!

When I was relaxed I'd only get a deep condition when I got a touch up or my next relaxer and I loved a good deep condition but now that I'm natural??? I realize it's a pretty good idea to deep condition with every wash! As long as you're balancing with a protein treatment when needed, deep conditioning won't harm but only help to keep hair moisturized, soft and supple. However, if your aren't balancing with a protein treatment, your hair will feel gummy from over conditioning which can cause more damage then you intended.

3. Hair is protein, you NEED protein! 

As I said in the last tip you MUST balance between moisture (dep conditioning) and protein! Protein treatments keep your hair strong and help to strengthen the strand's ability to retain moisture therefore keeping the hair soft, moisturized and easier to manage. As with deep conditioning, if you're only doing the one process you'll cause more damage. If you're only using protein conditioners or treatments your hair will become dry, brittle and will easily break.

4. Handle with care.

Being rough when handling your hair is NOT the way to go! You must be gentle at all times. Our hair is naturally fragile and when we handle it roughly we're only making things worse. A good note is checking the condition of your fingernails. Make sure you have not snags, hangnails or chipped nail polish. I've snagged my hair a number of times before I realized my nails were in bad shape for hair handling. 

5. Hot Oil Treatments!

There's nothing like a good hot oil treatment. It helps to lubricate dry, flaky, itchy scalp as well as hair strands. A good hot oil treatment will help minimize friction between hair strands resulting in less knotting and breakage. I try to do one once a month or more (in the winter).

6. Say NO to heat! 

Heat in nature is drying and direct heat in the hair is a strain no matter how much you try to protect the hair. (In my experience) I currently use NO heat in my regimen. After my first BC I straightened my hair every 6 months with little hair damage but I still had to put work in to make my hair feel as it did before applying heat. I'm noticing a no hear regimen us working a lot better for me! 

7. Be Patient. 

I often talk about our mindset toward our hair. It can get frustrating when your hair is shorter than the girl with 3c hair who did her BC 2 months after you did..lol BUT stay patient, have fun and love YOUR hair and YOUR journey through it all. You'll see results and you'll know when you're getting it right for YOU! 

Love you much for reading!! 

Bantu Knot Takedown/Styling

Very briefly, I LOVE the way my hair feels after doing twisted Bantu knots the other day! The combo of the Taliah Wajjid Leave-in and EVOO did the trick!! However, I should have: 1. Used a setting lotion, gel or foam to get better definition/hold for curl. 2. Did smaller sections for more definition. 3. Taken them out on a day when it wasn't raining! :-( 

Regardless, of these minor glitches I was happy that my hair was completely detangled and I could get it into a puff effortlessly!! It's been awhile. =D As a result I'll probably buy the Taliah Wajjid product again, go figure! 

Love you for reading! ;-*

My Two Cents: Texture Discrimination

So recently one of my favorite YT Naturals, Jouelzy, did a video on texture discrimination. Now this topic may not concern you if your hair texture has an undeniable presence in the natural hair community but if you're like me and other 4c ladies, you search and search for realistic results to common styles, methods etc and have a hard time.

Marketing & Products

In the natural community products are marketed with bouncy curls in mind as if a product can change your hair texture from the infamous Florida Evans to Shirley Temple curls. (Lol) Clearly I'm exaggerating but it's marketing like this that makes it hard for us 4c chicks to know when a product works for our hair. 

YouTube 

I often talk about how instrumental YT was in my decision to grow my natural hair and learning what and what not to do, however the presence of ladies with looser curl patterns is far more prominent than ladies of courser, tighter curl patterns. Once I started looking for ladies with hair that looked and behaved like my own I saw as felt reaults from my hair. Without ladies like Jouelzy, 4C Hair Chick(Trudy), and Blakizbeautyful (Jenell B. Stewart) and my own trial and error I might have gone back to the creamy crack! *gasp* Girrrllll, did she just say that? Yes I did! Lol. I made I through though. So much so, that I went as fat as rechopping to start over healthier! =D

So my two cents?...

If you have courser, thicker, tighter coiled hair SHARE your journey as muh as possible! Help your Sistas out that can't find themselves in the natural hair community! The struggle is real when you're not sure what the heck to do..lol! Let's continue to make the kinky chicks voice be heard! And that's  all I have to say about that.

Love you for reading, Stay Blessed! 

Jouelzy's Video - http://youtu.be/fggV0oVNhm8

Transforming Third Day Hair: Bantu Knot Out

HEY CURLIES!!

So as you know I had a bomb flat twist out for Mother's Day and I rocked it out for three days but guess what my hair was dry and crispy by then (eww!). Being that I'm breastfeeding and  potty training and doing a plethora of other things with my kids I didn't have the time to do a wash day but it was definitely ime for some moisture and coil refreshing! So what'd I do? I got out a leave in and some olive oil and went to work! 

Products:

• Taliah Wajjid Protective Mist Bodifier (leave-in)

• EVOO (Extra Virgin Olive Oil) to seal

Tools:

• Clips

• Bobby Pins (to hold knots in place on shorter/thicker hair like mine) 

• Combs (if needed) 

The Process: 

1. Split hair into four sections. 

2. Part each section into 4 or more sections (depending on hair thickness/desired curl)

3. Apply leave-in and work through parted section.

4. Apply EVOO and work through parted section.

5. Two strand twist. 

6. Twist between fingers.

7. Bantu knot.

8. Pin if needed/desired. 

About the leave-in:

I have used this product in the past on wet/damp hair and it DID NOT provide the moisture I wanted or was expecting. In this style I applied on dry hair and sealed with the EVOO in hopes that I'll get different results. Stay tuned for the take down and results post! 

As always thanks for reading! 

Featured YT Channel: MyNaturalSistas Twisted Faux Bun Hair Tutorial on Natural Hair (+playlist)

Featured YT Channel: MyNaturalSistas How To - Finger Coils on Natural Hair

Featured YT Channel: MyNaturalSista Top 14 Tips for a Defined Twist Out on Natural Hair

Mother's Day 2014: Flat Twist Out on my TWA

So first and foremost HEY CURLIES!! I hope all of you curly, coily an kinky mamas enjoyed your weekend of love and celebration!! What a great Mother's Day I had! And the fact that my hair was on point made it even better..LOL! So here are my results...If you follow or friend me on any social network you obviously saw this yesterday. However, I didn't mention products or any other details so if you wanted to know here comes the info.

Tools

• tail comb

• Denman brush

• clips (to hold hair out of the way)

• spray bottle (I twisted on damp hair and spritzed if it got too dry)

Products for twisting 

• ORS smooth n hold pudding 

• Jane Carter Nourish and Shine 

• homemade Shea butter mix (I was running out of my Jane Carter) 

 

So about this pudding! I don't really use puddings or hold product because my hair usually hold twisted styles pretty well with just a butter BUT without another pudding to compare this one to, I'd have to say it meets my expectations. Great hold and smoothing ability, doesn't leave my hair feeling crunchy nor does it flake or leave that ugly white residue! This was my second time using this product for my flat twists and I am pleased. It does the job for me. Of course like a true product junkie, I'll try other puddings now to compare and find a favorite to add to my staple products. If I had to give this pudding a rating however, it would receive 4 out of 5 thumbs up.

Thanks for Reading as Always!

TBT: My First Natural Hair Video

So here's my quick TBT post. Ahhh!! Back when I first started my natural hair jouney! Check it out.

http://youtu.be/8XO7yjYkYHU

Vlogger Feature: Curlicious Curls in Under 2 Hours! by Jenell B Stewart

Vlogger Feature: How To Do a Hot Oil Treatment by Jenell Stewart

Vlogger Feature: How to Do an Avocado Treatment by Jenell B Stewart

Natural Hair Community Rant

Hey Natural Sistas!

So it's been a minute since I've posted about the natural hair community and I wanted to address some things that I've seen lately on Facebook. If you are into joining natural hair groups like myself you've noticed that Facebook has a number of natural hair group pages where black women share everything from styles to products, methods etc. At first I loved them until I started to see arguments in comments and blatant disrespect for women who had come to the group with a common interest.  I know, I know those darn social networks! Lol. However we may feel about the internet and drama it is a great tool to share ideas and experiences, but there are some things that seriously bother me about black women and how we communicate with each other at times.

Why the attitude?

As black women, black people period, we are high spirited and passionate but there is a thin line between getting your point across with passion and just being plain nasty. On a number of occasions I have seen women argue over something as simple as slicking or not slicking edges. No we may not be able to tell how your tone might be through text but honey when you start say things like "Don't insult my intelligence, sweetie!" We know a neck roll was most likely connected to that statement.

What do we really have against each other? There is no reason to argue over personal preference or opinions, am I right? We are women who share a common interest and we can learn from each other. (The point of these groups in the first place!) It saddens me to see grown women with careers and children arguing over straight or natural texture and tearing other women down for liking the creamy crack (relaxer). At the end of the day it's about healthy hair and a healthier you, sis!

The Wrap-up

I wanted to keep this brief because though I could rant for days on this topic I'd rather talk about the more positive things about the natural hair community. So I hope we can start to encourage and build each other up more. Natural hair should be fun and having curlfriends is a cherry on top, who wants curlenemies? Not cute.

Thanks as always for reading!

Koily Kute ;-*

Let Go Let Fro Friday!: Protective Styling

My Love for Protective Styling

The point of protective styling is to minimize breakage by putting that hair AWAY, staying out of it and wearing it in a way that keeps the ends protected. If you've followed my natural hair journey for a week or from the beginning you would know that I absolutely love protective styling! There are endless possibilities when it comes to protective styling. Twists, braids, weaves, wigs I love them all! Here are three of my faves for medium-long length hair.

Two Strand Twist

The first time I big chopped and grew my hair protective styling was a big part of my journey. My favorite style was two strand twists. After a year of being natural I started wearing them almost all the time. 

Yarn Wraps/Faux Locs

I've done yarn wraps twice before my rechop. The install time for me was the worst part! It took me around 13 hrs to do them but my hair remained moisturized because the yarn held the moisture onto my hair unlike Marley braid hair.

Flat Twist Crown


















This style I'd consider my dirty hair style. Whenever my hair needed a wash but I didn't have the time, this was my go to quick and easy style.

Protective Styling for a TWA: Flat Twists & Frohawks

My absolute favorite style for my twa! Flat twisted sides and a frohawk. This was my Easter do and it came out great. It's simple and quick if you've perfected flat twisting. The photos above show the set and results featuring my new baby girl Mikaela. Lol.

Tools Used

• spray bottle (water, glycerin, vo5 conditioner, jojoba and grape seed oils)

• rat tail comb

• hair clips for sectioning 

• twisting butter/pudding (I used my favorite Jane Carter Solutions Nourish and Shine) 

Tips

• I made sure my hair was damp or almost dry hair and applied the Nourish and Shine to each section prior to twisting. 

• I first started doing this style when my hair was about 2in long. It is now 3-4in long.

• Handle edges with care making sure they are thoroughly moisturized before twisting. 

• Make sure ends are moisturized and sealed well for best results. 

• Retwist at night for maintenance and moisturize when needed. 

As always, Thanks for reading!! Stay Koily and Kute ;-*

Soft Finger Coils on Stretched Hair

So last week Sunday I decided to do finger coils on my then clean flat twisted hair. The hair had been flat twisted immediately after washing & LOCing and left in for a few days. This allowed my coils and curls to stretch.

Once taken out I used my spray bottle to lightly wet my hair and started my coils in a free form rather than parting (I hate parting..lol). My spray bottle has a mix of water, glycerin, jojoba and grape seed oil, and a vo5 conditioner. The product I used to help form my coils was Miss Jessie's Curly Pudding! I have to say, when I first purchased this product I hated it. I tried it for my twist out and my hair came out flakey and dry. This time around dryness did not exist (Must be that LOC method)! However, flakes did show up a bit but not as bad as it could have been or was in the past. 

My coils are now a week old, I wore them through labor and delivery and they're still in tact!! I'm satisfied! Lol. 

Hairfinity, Manetabolism and Hair Skin & Nails by ItWorks: Ingredients at a Glance!

All seemingly healthy yet different. I'd say the biggest difference is portion. How much of a certain vitamin or mineral the product contains. If you've tried any of these what was your experience? I'm still trying to decide! 

Haifinity (I could not locate a picture of the supplement facts label) 

Hairfinity Hair Vitamins are formulated with hair specific nutrients to nourish your hair from the INSIDE OUT and promote faster growing, longer, thicker, stronger hair, and more vibrant hair.

Biotin Biotin promotes healthy hair growth and protects against dryness. Increases the elasticity of the hair's cortex, thus preventing breakage. Helps produce keratin that prevents hair loss.

Niacin (Vitamin B3) Niacin promotes scalp circulation Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5) – prevents hair loss.

Vitamin A Vitamin A is an antioxidant that helps produce healthy sebum in the scalp.

Vitamin C Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps maintain hair and skin health.

Vitamin D Vitamin D helps prevent hair shedding which is critical to a voluminous fuller head of hair.

Vitamin B12 Vitamin B12 is essential to the formation of healthy red blood cells and helps transport oxygen to the scalp and follicles, which is required to sustain hair growth.

Vitamin B Complex Vitamin B Complex nourishes and supports a healthy scalp environment and healthy hair growth. Deficiencies in these vitamins can lead to hair thinning, hair loss, graying, and weakening of the hair structure.

Silica Due to its ability to maintain collagen, Silica helps maintain the hair's elasticity and helps keep the hair lustrous.

MSM The sulfur provided by MSM is required for healthy collagen and keratin, which are essential to healthy hair growth.

EXCLUSIVE CAPILSANA™ COMPLEX delivers a unique blend of Hydrolyzed Collagen, MSM, and Silica provides 18 Amino Acids, which are the building blocks of the protein that gives hair it's strength. The exclusive complex also provides sulfur required for healthy collagen and keratin, which are essential to healthy hair growth.

- See more at: http://www.hairfinity.com/ingredients.htm#sthash.RdzGFq8h.dpuf

Manetabolism

Hair Skin & Nails by ItWorks