Honey Curls 4 Step System Set AKA: A Curly Girl Chronicle

If you follow me on Instagram (which you really should be doing), then you got a bit of a preview of this CGC. Honey Curls is a cruelty free hair care line (targeted towards the junior market) from Canada. This is my first time using them, and at first my expectations weren't high (idk exactly why, probably because they have no discernible scent), but now I am super impressed. My curls look fantastic, shiny, and defined AND I'm pretty sure the amount of shrinkage that usually occurs was reduced. I used all four products as directed, and my hair is not crunchy, sticky, or heavy. I think I may be in love...

Redken's Curvaceous Curl Care Line! AKA-A CGC Preview

I will be reviewing the Redken Curvaceous Line soon, so I thought I'd give you lovelies a preview of its goodness! Stay tuned for the full Curly Girl Chronicle review!

Florence Welch's Braided Head Band Up 'Do AKA-Get the Look with Davines

Braids have long been trending in Hollywood (and are always in if you happen to be a mom to little girls). Lately the braids have become more and more creative and intricate, with braided headbands being one of the biggest braided styles to surface recently. Whether your hair is curly or straight, long or short, thin or thick, there is a way to achieve and personalize this great style. Here is an example (and step by step instructions on how to do it) of a gorgeously executed hairstyle that incorporates this popular trend.

Florence Welch (of Florence + the Machine) stunned on both the stage and red carpet at the LACMA 2012 Art + Film Gala.

Pureology Precious Oil System AKA: A Curly Girl Chronicle

Quick side note: I can't see the name of this line without hearing Golam in my head saying "My precious."

I was super stoked to try out this line, because as y'all know, I'm OBSESSED with oils! Plus the information I read on it said that it would do some awesomely major stuff for my hair: Experience radiant haircolour and 10X softer hair after just one use with Pureology Precious Oil™ haircare system for all hair types for ultimate softness. The Precious Oil system features the groundbreaking Green Seal Certified Versatile Caring Oil, the first 100% biodegradable product that is free of silicone and parabens for colour-treated hair, as well as a first of its kind Shamp’Oil – an oil-infused Zero Sulfate and silicone free featuring a unique oil delivery system that penetrates deep into hair fiber to deliver 4X the active ingredients to drastically replenish hair from the inside out. The Precious Oil system also includes an oil-infused Condition and Softening Masque. Together, the system evenly recharges every hair strand for softer, shinier, fuller and longer-lasting hair colour guaranteed. Each product in this system is designed to cleanse, condition, treat, or restore the health of the hair’s protective layer. Additionally, the Precious Oil haircare system features Sunflower Seed Oil for softness, Coconut Oil for elasticity, Olive Oil for shine and Jojoba Seed Oil for moisture. The Precious Oil system also features the exclusive oil-based OleoAntiFadeComplexTM/MC that replicates the way hair absorbs nutrients to deliver 4X active ingredients from root to tip to provide superior colour retention for longer lasting hair colour, guaranteed.

See? Pretty awesome! I don't have color treated hair, but often times I find that products marketed towards color treated hair are well suited for curly hair as well, as they are super moisturizing and non stripping. So here's what I thought after trying Pureology's Precious Oil Line...

Jane Carter Solution Scalp Renew AKA: A Curly Girl Chronicle

Jane Carter Solution Scalp Renew (MSRP $20 for 2 fl. oz.)

Product Description: This all natural pre shampoo scalp treatment is great for stimulating hair growth by cleansing and exfoliating the scalp. The fundamental to growing great hair is a healthy scalp. The tea tree oil, sweet orange and peppermint will invigorate your scalp and exfoliate all of the toxins and sludge that slow hair growth. Not only does it make your scalp feel tingly clean, peppermint and tea tree revive your energy. Scalp Renew is a must!

Ingredients:  Pure essential oils of peppermint, lavender, tea tree, sweet orange, Vitamins A, D, & E, and Hybrid Safflower Oil 

silicone free, sulfate free, paraben free, protein free, glycerin free

My Take:  They had me at the convenient applicator tip! The oil is thin enough to seep into the scalp well (I find that thicker oils lay on top of scalp and just gunk up my hair). It leaves a refreshing, tingling sensation and really relieves dry scalp and flaking. Plus, it smells like yummy peppermint. I like to use it at night, preferably as part of my pre poo treatment, after detangling my hair. 

Until next time...

I Think I'm In Love! AKA: Paul Mitchell's Curls Line (A CGC)

Paul Mitchell's Curls Line was provided to me for the purpose of review by Paul Mitchell and NaturallyCurly.com

This CGC will be a little different because instead of just discussing a single product, I'm covering a whole line (with the exception of the Beachy Texture Cream Gel, which I will discuss in a future CGC). Just so you know, my overall opinion of the Paul Mitchell Curls Line is that it ROCKS!!!

As If I Needed More Reason to Adore Davines: AKA: Davines Sustainable Beauty Day (October 15)

How cool is the illustration on this packaging?!?

I have been HOOKED on this rich, creamy, delightful smelling butter for the past month or so. Davines Authentic Replenishing Body Butter is remarkable because unlike some other products that claim to multitask (but really only perform best at one duty), this wonderful cream works just as well in my delicate, curly tresses as it does on my parched skin (my oily face makes me wary of using anything on it that uses the term "butter" to describe it). 

Made with 98% naturally-derived ingredients, this nourishing butter deeply replenishes both your body and hair. You can use it as a pre-treatment on dry hair before shampooing, or massage it onto your face and body for superior moisturizing.

But there's more to Davines than superior quality, salon grade hair care products...

Tropic Isle Living Leave In Conditioner & Detangler- AKA: A Curly Girl Chronicle (CGC)

Tropic Isle Living's Leave-In Conditioner and Detangler

Product Description: Give your hair that extra vibrancy it needs by using Tropic Isle Living's Leave-In Conditioner and Detangler with a fusion of Rosemary, Shea, and Jamaican Black Castor Oil. This conditioner not only conditions your hair,  it also calms tangled hair making it so much easier to comb through. It adds extra sheen and moisture-helping to keep your curls looking fresher and more defined than ever. Use on dry hair to refresh your style. Do not rinse out. Squeeze an adequate amount of product into palms and apply over, under and through hair. For more defined curls apply product to wet or fairly damp hair.  

Ingredients:  Organic Aloe Juice, Jamaican Black Castor Oil, Shea Oil, Vitamin E, Vegetable Glycerin, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Stearalkonium Chloride, Meadowfoam Oil, Phenoxyethano, di-Pathenol (Pro-Vitamin B5), Black Willow Bark Extract, Rosemary, Bay, Basil, Cedarwood, Grapefruit, Lavender, Lemon, Pimento, and Cetearyl Alcohol.   

My Take:  I *love* a spray detangler/leave in conditioner, and with the all star list of ingredients (aloe juice, JBCO, and Pro Vitamin B-yes please!) in Tropic Isle Living's Leave In Conditioner and Detangler, I had very high hopes for this one. And I was not disappointed! It was a great introduction to the brand (stay tuned for more reviews of their products), and a great product to boot. I used it on Kenzie to detangle her ever growing mane (I promise she has more hair every time I do it) and was so pleased with the results that I attempted French braided pigtails on her for the first time...

The only way her hair could have turned out better is if she had actually stayed still :)

Thusly motivated, I aimed the spray at my own tresses in order to dry detangle my own hair (my normal pre poo habit) and was once again so impressed with the results, that I actually held off on washing my hair. The conditioner left my hair so shiny and soft and smooth, I just couldn't convince myself to wash it away! The only slight caveat to this product (and it is not at all a deterrent, even for me the fragrance snob) is that, in order to maintain the integrity of the formula, there are no fragrances added to any of the products in the Tropic Isle Living line. What you smell is a combination of all the wonderful, natural ingredients within-a scent that I can only describe as nuanced, earthy, and herbally-not at all unpleasant, just perhaps something that you are not used to. Until next time...

Curly Girls Rule The World!-AKA-Curls Hair Care at the Bronner Bros Hair Show

The Curls Hair Care Booth at the Bronner Bros Hair Show 2012

One of the most memorable booths at the Bronner Bros Hair Show was that of Curls Hair Care. It was very noticeable, not only because of its prime, corner location but also because of the lovely curly girls present , adorned in brightly colored tutus, t-shirts with the Curls logo emblazoned in sparkles, and inviting smiles (not to mention trays full of goodies).

The ladies at the booth were so friendly and adorable in their sparkly shirts, colorful tutus, and gorgeous curls!

Living Proof No Frizz System-AKA: No Frizz = The Perfect Curls

Forever on the search for the perfect curl (which ultimately means forever seeking to destroy frizz), I was happy to try out Living Proof's No Frizz system.  It's a new line of hair care products, guaranteed to beat frizz. I deal will year long, humidity induced frizziness, but it's at its height during the warm summer months. All the poking and prodding and soothing we do to battle both humidity and friction tends to take a toll on our hair. Living Proof seeks to offer a solution

Motions Foaming Wrap Lotion-AKA: A Curly Girl Chronicle (CGC)

Motions Foaming Wrap Lotion

Product Description: Get the ultimate in styling control for your hair with Motions Foaming Wrap Lotion. Formulated for wrapping and setting, this styling lotion gives hair superior control to create defined curls. Keeps hair looking glam and gorgeous all day long. It is an anti-humectant and provides definition. (Retails for about $5.50 for 8.5 fl oz)

Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Polyquaternum-11, Alcohol Denat., PEG-12 Dimethicone, Oleth-20, TEA-Lauroyl Collagen Amino Acids, PEG-75 Lanolin, Cetrimonium Chloride, DMDM Hydantoin, Fragrance (Parfum), Hexyl Cinnamal, Linalool, Hydroxyisohexyl 3-Cyclohexene Carboxaldehyde, Panthenol

sulfate free and paraben free

My Take: I would never have thought to use setting lotion in my hair, I grew up watching my mom use it for roller sets on her relaxed hair, so I didn't think it's use translated over to my natural tresses. I used the Motions Foaming Wrap Lotion in my oldest daughter's transitioning hair. She's determined to go sulfate and paraben free in the products she uses so this was a perfect fit for her roller set. We used a spray bottle of water to dampen her hair (her natural texture is 4b/c) and then used a generous amount of the foam throughout before putting in foam rollers. While I don't exactly like the scent (it's not bad, it's just not good) and the fact that it leaves your hands quite sticky, the results are undeniable. After leaving the rollers in overnight, she woke up with lovely curls that I'm positive will stay in her hair all day, despite the humidity. We did need to apply some cream moisturizer, as her hair did look a bit dry, but the important thing is that her hair will hold, thanks to Motions Foaming Wrap Lotion! I still can't figure out how to use it in my 3b hair, but we will definitely be using it again in hers!

Until next time...


Ciao, XxO


Q


PS-Product was sent for review by the company and NaturallyCurly.com. I was not paid for this review and all opinions stated are 100% honest and my own. This post does contain affiliate links-if you choose to click on the picture or text links AND make a purchase, I will receive a small commission :)

CGC: Carol's Daughter Macadamia Heat Protection Serum

(photo via Naturally Curly)

Product Description: Macadamia Heat Protection Serum harnesses the power of Macadamia Oil’s frizz-shield to smooth the hair cuticle and provide a barrier for heat styling. Hydrolyzed Silk, a moisturizing protein, and pro-vitamin B5, known for its strengthening properties, shield hair from damaging heat styling such as blow-dryers, diffusers, curling irons and flatirons. Apply before heat styling. Product aids in straightening, adds moisture, gives frizz control, and is an anti-humectant.

Ingredients: Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethiconol, Phenyl Trimethicone, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Alcohol Denat., Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Hydrolyzed Silk, Macadamia Integrifolia Seed Oil, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Sprout Extract, Panthenol (Pro-vitamin B5), Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E Acetate),Retinyl Palmitate (Vitamin A Palmitate), Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Water (Aqua), Butylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Fragrance (Parfum) 

sulfate free, paraben free, glycerin free

My Take: I don't know what took me so long to use this! The consistency was light and not at all greasy or sticky. The smell is fantastic (light and fresh, with not even a hint of nuttines, lol), and most importantly, it worked. Mind you, I used it after a poor hairstylist's failed attempt at a blow out, so I wasn't working with a full head of curls. But, it got my hair sleek, smooth, and shiny without an ounce of grease. I like that I really didn't need a lot of product to get the desired results-just a pump or two for each half of my hair and I was good to go! I will definitely be reaching for this whenever I want to straighten my curls!

We'll call this "before" even though technically it's "after " a blow out.

Before

After! I used the Morroconoil's Frizz Control the night before and CD's Macadamia Heat Protection Serum (purchase here: http://rstyle.me/e4dtz8nade) right before straightening. I used my flat iron from Flat Iron Experts (which I posted about here: http://bit.ly/MnXfDb )

I had to include this picture because I love Kenzie's face and you can really tell how shiny my  hair is!

Ciao, XxO

Q


PS-Product was sent for the purpose of review by Carol's Daughter and Naturally Curly. I was not paid for this review and all opinions stated are 100% honest and my own. Click here to purchase from Sephora: http://rstyle.me/e4dtz8nade  This is an affiliate link, if you choose to click it AND make a purchase, I will receive a small commission :)

Introducing Redken's New Quick Tease 15!

Go On. Be a Tease.

Introducing NEW quick tease 15 backcombing finishing spray

Now there’s no more wishing a finishing spray did it all!  Introducing NEW quick tease 15 backcombing finishing spray, a dual-action high-speed finishing spray that truly goes beyond, providing the added finishing benefits of volume, texture and control!  It delivers a long lasting texture with matte finish and locks any look in place in an instant, helping to transform a style to create that runway-ready teased look without all the effort.

Touchably Soft, Beach Ready Hair with Josie Maran Bohemian Waves Argan Hair Mist

In honor of the birth of Josie Maran's beautiful baby girl (she was born via home birth on July 1st), I thought I'd share one of my favorite Josie Maran products with you lovelies! With summer vacations and backyard barbecues in full swing, this is the perfect time to try Bohemian Waves Argan Hair Mist to achieve that effortless, tousled look that's great for any summer occasion.

Josie Maran Bohemian Waves Argan Hair Mist

Eden BodyWorks Jojoba Monoi Line

Eden BodyWorks was founded by 13 year old Jasmine Lawrence to address the need in the hair care market for all natural products that actually work. There is no alcohol, petroleum, mineral oils, or sodium sulfates in any of the products, ensuring that your hair doesn't just appear healthy, it actually is!  

I was pleasantly surprised by how well my hair responded when I used these products. Out of the four, there are definitely some hits and some misses, but when used all together, the results were stellar! Here's a breakdown of each product I tried:

Give It Away, Give It Away, Give It Away Now! Use Me! Products

I love the Red Hot Chili Peppers, and used this line for the title of a giveaway way back when, but I think that it will be the recurring title of all giveaway posts, so remember this!

You may recall my review of Use Me! Cleanser and Moisturizer for Fine Hair, as well as the Curl Up & Shine Cream, in my inaugural CGC (Curly Girl Chronicle). If not, you can refresh your memory here! Well the lovely people at Use Me! enjoyed my review so much, they not only have a link to it up on their website, they want to give one of you lovelies your choice of one of their four styling products!

CGC: L'Oreal Paris Ever Sleek Super Sleek Intense Serum

L'Oreal EverSleek Super Sleek Intense Serum (photo via naturallycurly.com)

Product Description: Say goodbye to stubborn, unmanageable frizz with EverSleek Sulfate-Free Smoothing System Super Sleek Intense Serum. This smoothing serum, infused with Argan, Sunflower and Olive oils, helps control rebellious and unruly hair without the weight of heavy silicones. Hair is left shiny and stunningly sleek. Silicone-free 48-hour frizz control.

Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Glycerin, Steareth 100/PEG 136/HDI Coloymer, PEG 40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, PEG 15 Cocopolyamine, Phenoxyethanol, Fragrance, Hexyl Cinnamal, Linalool, Benzyl Salicylate, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Argania Spinosa (Argan) Kernel Oil, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Limonene, Benzyl Alcohol, Citronellol, Courmarin, F.I.L. D48778/1

silicone free, sulfate free, paraben free, protein free

My Take: As far as serums go, it's okay. For me, it falls short of expectations; it just leaves something to be desired (probably silicone). I think this is perfect if you are anti silicones, as it does give a nice sheen and provides some frizz control. I can't see using it again for myself for curly hairstyles, but I will use it to prep my hair for straightening. I also like to use it for added shine in my daughter's 4a/b hair. 

PS- Product was sent for the purpose of review by NaturallyCurly.com. I was not paid for this review and all opinions stated are 100% honest and my own :)

CGC: U R Curly Loose Curl Enhancer

U R Curly Loose Curl Enhancer (photo via naturallycurly.com)

Product Description:  Our Loose Curl Enhancer gel is alcohol-free, rich with Glycerin and Soy Protein and enhanced with Provitamin B5 and Echinacea which work to moisturize your hair. Whether you wear your hair long or short, the friendly ingredients found within our weightless U R Curly Loose Curl Enhancer gel activator formula formula will revive and stimulate your curls and waves while defining their shape, controlling the frizz and leaving it shiny and soft to the touch. Our Loose Curl Enhancer delivers lasting curl memory, reduces breakage, nourishes damaged hair – helping you reach your hair goals.  Adds definition.

Ingredients: Artesian Water, Glycerin, PPG-5 Ceteth-20, Polysorbate 20, Carbomer, Triethanolamine, DMDM Hydantoin, Fragrance, Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein PG Silanetriol, Crambe Abyssinica Seed Oil (Abyssinian Oil), Panthenol (Provitamin B5), Echinaecea Extract, IodopropynylButylcarbamate 

silicone free, paraben free  

My Take:   I kind of want to like this more because unlike most gels I've encountered, this one did not leave a bit of crunch in my hair at all. The scent was very pleasant (more so that the shampoo and conditioner in this line in my opinion), but I have to settle on saying this was just, meh. While my curls were pretty decently defined, in all honesty I don't need styling products to define my curls (or form them for that matter), I need products to provide frizz control, and this just doesn't seem to be doing that. I didn't leave the house after using this, and it wasn't at all humid but when I looked in the mirror, I there was frizz. No bueno. But... I do think I will use this for up do's and such, because there is a lovely sheen to the hair that hasn't gone poof... 

PS- Product was sent for the purpose of review by NaturallyCurly.com. i was not paid for this review and all opinions stated are 100% honest and my own :) (There is also and Tight Curl Enhancer available from U R Curly)

CGC: U R Curly Soya Shampoo

U R Curly Soya Shampoo (photo via naturallycurly.com)

Product Description:   Our Soya Shampoo is free of alcohol, parabens and sulfates. It is made with soy protein and enriched with Abyssinian Oil, Tea Tree Oil, Echinacea and Aloe. Whether you wear your hair long or short, the friendly ingredients found within our weightless U R Curly Soya Shampoo will clean and moisturize your hair leaving it smooth and soft to the touch. Our unique formula is designed to soothe your scalp, reducing breakage, nourish damaged hair and help promote hair growth– helping you reach your hair goals. 
Ingredients: Artesian Water, Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Cocoyl Taurate, PEG 150 Distearate, Polyquat 10, Menthol, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Polysorbate 20, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Crambe Abyssinica Seed Oil, Fragrance, Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Methylisothiazolinine

silicone free, sulfate free, paraben free, glycerin free

My Take: I was kind of on the fence about this shampoo based on my first impressions, mainly the scent (which is not bad; you can definitely detect the menthol and tea tree oil that are listed in the ingredients) and the texture of the product itself (it comes out of the bottle like a thick gel but when you rub it together it feels very sticky and kind of off putting). It also took quite a lot of product to cover my hair. But... once I got it in there it lathered decently and left my scalp tingly. The package says to leave it in for 2 minutes (which is a bit odd for shampoo I thought), but I listened and I'm so glad I did. When I rinsed the shampoo out, my hair felt like silk. I was shocked and amazed and pleased! Definitely an unusual product and it might not be for everybody, but I will definitely be using it again. 

PS- Product was sent for the purpose of review by NaturallyCurly.com. I was not paid for this review and all opinions stated are 100% honest and my own :)

CGC: L'Oreal Paris EverSleek Finishing Creme

Product Description:  This lightweight cream, infused with Argan, Sunflower and Olive oils, helps seal split ends and control frizz. No heavy silicones. Just shiny, manageable and stunningly sleek hair. Silicone-free and 48-hour frizz control. 

Ingredients:  Water (Aqua), Cetearyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate SE, Triethyl Citrate, Isopropyl Palmitate, Glycerin, Cetyl Alcohol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Xanthan Gum, Sodium Benzoate, Caprylyl Glycol, Fragrance, Citric Acid, Hexyl Cinnamal, Linalool, Benzyl Salicylate, Limonene, Benzyl Alcohol, Citronellol, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Argania Spinosa (Argan) Kernel Oil, Courmarin, F.I.L D49067/2 

silicone free, sulfate free, paraben free, protein free

My Take: I don't know about the 48 hour claim, but the cream did smooth my second day hair quite nicely. It is surprisingly lightweight, so it's best for when you just need an extra little oomph, but nothing too dramatic. It has a light, pleasant scent. I definitely like it for second day hair, but I don't think it's strong enough to help 3rd day hair. It also didn't do a whole lot for my daughter London's 4a/b hair. But I'll keep using it for sure! 

PS- Product was sent for the purpose of review by NaturallyCurly.com. I was not paid for this review and all opinions stated are 100% honest and my own :)