Helpful Tip Tuesday

KEEP CONDITIONING

Just as your body needs water to survive, your hair must replenish its moisture to stay healthy. "Conditioner for hair is like water for the body: You're always going to need it," says hairstylist Lorraine Massey. So if you're a dry-shampoo fan, add moisture, even if you're not washing. The time-saving formulas of dry shampoos are designed to soak up oil, leaving hair lackluster. To rehydrate without wetting, spritz a dry conditioner on thirsty ends every two days.

HHJ

Wash Day #2

Hey ladies.

Now I don't know if you guys would still be interested in me continuing sharing with you my wash day post. I still want to document my journey now that I'm natural. Showing you guys my ups and downs, my setbacks, and my growth.

So here what I did in this wash day:

-Pre Pooed with Ynobe shop Pre-poo Treat and I add Amla Plus Herbal Hair oil. This was left on for maybe 3 hours or so. I was busy cleaning and doing school and basically forgot that it was on.
- Cleansed with Jessicurl Hair Cleansing Cream 1x, but made sure I really worked it in. Rinsed well.
- Conditioner rinsed with my Tresemme concoction. Working it from root to tip making sure to get all my shed hairs out. This is becoming a great detangler.
- I didn't use my tea rinse the wash day. I replaced it with Komaza Care Honecomb Hair rejuvenator and the coated it with Audrey GPB. I left this on for 5 minutes and rinsed well.

- Deep conditioned with Hairveda Strinillah without a cap or heat for well over a hour. Rinsed well.

- For leave ins I used 4naturals Daily Treatment Leave-in on my scalp. Ouidad Sun Shield leave-in spray and sealed with Shea Butter oil. 4naturals Afro Cream Curl Cream was used for my styler. I 2 strand twisted my hair.

Very simply Wash Day!

Jessicurls Review #21

Hola

I am excited to write this review. I have only tried Jessicurls pillow packs and was to pumped to receive the set to review for you guys. Now each product on there site range from a .05oz to 1 gallon to accommodate your needs. Plus on the website Jessicurl has tons of helpful information from a blog to videos!

Sample Pack 4: 2oz-24.00$

Hair Cleansing Cream

Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Decyl Polyglucose, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Vegetable Glycerin, Behentrimonium Methosulfate (and) Cetearyl Alcohol, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, C 12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, PEG 150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate, Diazolidinyl Urea (and) Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate

Directions: Shake bottle, wet hair well and massage into scalp to create a light lather. Finger comb lather through length of hair and rinse well. You may not get a ton of lather the first time though but your hair will be clean. If you want more lather, repeat the cleansing process. Don’t bunch your hair up on the top of your head as this will create tangles. After rinsing, follow with your favorite Jessicurl conditioner.

Too Shea! Extra Moisturizing Conditioner

Ingredients: Water (Aqua) infused with Equisetum Maximum Lam (Horsetail), Mentha Piperita (Peppermint), Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary), Laurus Nobilis (Bay Leaf), Ocimum Basilicum (Basil), Arctium Lappa (Burdock Root), Althaea Officinalis (Marshmallow Root), Origanum Vulgare (Oregano), Cymbopogon Flexuosus (Lemongrass), Thymus Vulgaris (Thyme), Salvia Officinalis (Sage) and Urtica Dioica (Nettle); Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Behentrimonium Methosulfate (and) Cetearyl Alcohol, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Hydrolyzed Oat Flour, Soy Lecithin, Diazolidinyl Urea (and) Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate

Directions: Apply to wet hair, comb through and rinse after 3-5 minutes. Follow with your favorite Jessicurl styling products. Too Shea can also be left in for all day moisture on dry curls or used as a deep conditioner for finer hair that gets weighed down easily.

Deep Conditioning Treatment

Ingredients: Water (Aqua) infused with Equisetum Maximum Lam (Horsetail), Mentha Piperita (Peppermint), Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary), Laurus Nobilis (Bay Leaf), Ocimum Basilicum (Basil), Arctium Lappa (Burdock Root), Althaea Officinalis (Marshmallow Root), Origanum Vulgare (Oregano), Cymbopogon Flexuosus (Lemongrass), Thymus Vulgaris (Thyme), Salvia Officinalis (Sage) and Urtica Dioica (Nettle); Behentrimonium Methosulfate (and) Cetearyl Alcohol, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, Soy Lecithin, Diazolidinyl Urea (and) Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate

Directions: Apply to clean, wet hair, comb through and let it settle in for 30-60 minutes. For even more intense conditioning, use with heat, such as the Hair Therapy Wrap. Rinse and style as usual. This can be used daily or as a leave-in conditioner for thicker, drier curl types.

Confident Coils:

Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, VP/VA Copolymer, Polyimide-1, C 12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Cetearyl Alcohol (and) Polysorbate 60; Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Dehydroxanthan Gum, Magnesium Sulfate (Epsom Salt), Diazolidinyl Urea (and) Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate

Directions: Use Confident Coils with Jessicurl Rockin’ Ringlets or Gelebration Spray for extra curl enhancement or alone to give tighter curls definition and hold. Distribute evenly through soaking wet hair and scrunch to encourage curls or finger-comb to elongate. Air dry or dry with a diffuser. This stuff is pretty concentrated, so less is more. If your hair is fine and gets weighed down easily, use a very small amount at first and increase from there if you need more hold. Check out my product demo videos in the Curly Care Center to see Confident Coils in action.

My Review: The Jessicurl team I felt had wonderful customer service. They were extremely polite and even asked for hair details to get the right products out to me. Shipping was also fast and timely! When the package came it had plenty of information on how to use the collection, what order to use it, and which product would be best for your hair type. I found this very helpful especially if your just starting to learn your curls and you have no idea where to start. This sample pack would be a well rounded kit to test out! They also sent me a  a little nifty washable tattoo.

The 2 things I used prior to getting the sample set was the Hair Cleansing Cream and the Deep Conditioner Treatment. Now for the deep conditioner it is a must try for transitioners and full naturals. My results were amazing! Soft hair, new growth was manageable, it also aided in my detangling process. So I would definitely give this a try more then the others in my opinion. I started with the cleanser of course and was a little taken back by not getting suds I was us to seeing from my shampoo. Being that this was my first cleanser I did really know what to expect. But it did a great job of cleaning my hair without the squeaky clean feel. I then used the Too Shea Moisturizing Conditioner as my conditioner rinse. First I think I should have used this instead of my Aubreys maybe I would have had a better effect. But my initial use I really didn't see any wow factor. It really didn't do anything to my hair. But I will try it again this wash day and let you guys know how I feel about it. Last was the styler, Confident Coils, and I loved it. It was truly moisturizing and defining. No flakes in my curls, no nasty residue, only thing was a small amount didn't cut it. I had to keep going back to make my curls stand out the way I wanted it to.

Pricing for each 8oz bottle is 16.95 which is a little pricey for my range. But they always send awesome deals in there emails from discount on shipping or buying a set, so it would be a good idea to sign up for they're email updates!

The set I was sent did not have a scent. (Wow! Try saying that three times fast! Lol) They have 2 ways you can get your products which are scented and unscented. But they only have one scent which is Island Fantasy. I really do like when companies gives you the choice of choosing your fragrance just in case you have a allergy to something.  

Overall I give this sample a B+ for the Conditioner and the pricing. Every thing else was to my liking.

Hair Tip Tuesday on Thursday

Hey guys!

Sorry for the late post. But with the kids and school my days feel like they a mushed togather and I don't realize it's the next day until late at night when I'm thinking what I have to do for the next day! 

Here's my tip for the day:

MOISTURE, POROSITY, AND ELASTICITY OF BLACK HAIR

Black hair care must address the main components that make up condition of black hair. These are moisture, porosity, and elasticity.

Moisture is the amount of moisture water contained in the hair's cortex. It is greater in humid areas, and less in drier areas.

Porosity is the hair's ability to absorb water and chemicals. If porosity is normal, it keeps the hair from absorbing or releasing too much moisture. Overly porous hair cannot hold its moisture; it is much like a sponge. It easily sucks up moisture, but cannot hold it.

Elasticity is the hair's ability to stretch and return to its normal length. Wet hair should be able to stretch about half of its length without breaking. If your hair's elasticity is low, it will break when stretched.

Black hair that is relaxed will often be over porous, have low elasticity, and have low moisture content. For this reason, it is necessary to take special steps to keep black hair healthy so that it can grow its longest.

- See more at: http://www.hairfinity.com/black-hair-care.htm#sthash.GPREQKUH.dpuf

Wash Day....Plus Surprise!

How my hair looked when I took out my rods. I styled it with
As I Am DoubleButter Cream

I DID IT.

Finally after 45 weeks or 11 months and some change. I chopped my ends off hunny.

Yesterday started off extremely terrible. (Family that is not related to me issues) So when  took my rods down and looked in the mirror saying to myself I'm going to do it. I didn't know where to start, just knowing that I had to wet my hair. I used my aloe vera mix to wet my hair and bring out my curls. Then sitting in front of the mirror I just went to work. I really wanted to record it but due to the terrible circumstances I just went for and took pictures instead!

So for this wash day I used Jessicurls Confident Curls sample pack that I will be review in my next post.

Here's how I washed my first TWA:

•Pre pooed with Ynobe Shop Prr-poo treat for 2 hours. No heat and no conditioning cap. Rinsed it out.

• Cleansed with Jessicurls Hair Cleansing Cream 2x. Rinsed out.

• Used Jessicurls Too Shea Extra Moisturizing Conditioner applying it from root to tip and leaving it on for 3 minutes while I detangled.

• Then I sprayed my hair with CCs Naturals Hair tea and then covered it with Aubrey's GPB Balancing Conditioner. I left this on for about 5 minutes. Rinsed well.

• After that I used Jessicurls Deep Conditioning Treatment. I left this on my hair for 2 hours. A hour with heat and a hour without. Rinsed that out in cool water.

• Last for leave-ins I used Giovanni 2chic Keratin & Argan oil leave-in and styling Elixir.  Sealed with shea butter oil and for a my styler I used Jessicurls Confident coils. Which dry in about 2 hours.  Yay fro!

I was very happy for my first all natural wash!

Also How my hair looks, I have came a long way and finally feel free from the 2 textures!!

End Results

Jmarie Natural Beauty Review #20

Hey Guys

Now these butters like I said the Random Spotlight on the owner of Jmarie Natural Beauty. I have been using them for over 2 months now. I mainly use them on my daughters hair instead of mines because they are a little heavy on my relaxed ends. But once I big chop I will be giving them another try.

Anyways I won these in a giveaway. Each of them are 4oz and pack a lot of punch. Now I have never heard of her butters prior to the giveaway and I do my research to see if I can find any reviews on products before I use them. I believe I only found maybe 2, which to me states that this is a small business in the making. All products can be safely used on skin as well. They each contain: 

No Petrolatum
No Mineral Oil
No Synthetic Coloring
No Chemical preservatives

Brazil Nut Butter 9.99$-4oz

Directions For Hair: Use on dry or wet hair. If you have a TWA or Wash & Go, rub butter in hands, then gently rub butter all over hair. If you are doing a Twist/Braid Out, place butter on each section of hair and then twist/braid. A little goes a long way.

Directions for Skin: Rub butter all over skin ... and wait for the compliments on how good you smell :-)

Ingredients: Berthorlletia Excelsa Seed Oil, Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil.

*Special Tip: This is also great for babies and children. It’s light and airy and easily penetrates hair.

Orange Healing Butter 9.99$-4oz

Orange Butter is derived from Orange Peel oil and Orange Peel Wax. The natural oil contains Limonene, which is a very effective free radical scavenger. Oranges and orange peel oil are a great natural source of vitamin E, a well-known antioxidant.

Directions For Hair: Use on dry or wet hair. If you have a TWA or Wash & Go, Puff, or Bun, rub butter in hands, then gently rub butter all over hair. If you are doing a Twist/Braid Out, place butter on each section of hair and then twist/braid. A little goes a long way.

Directions for Skin: Rub butter all over skin ... and enjoy how great you smell!

Ingredients: Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil (and) Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Wax, Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil.

*Special Tip – My other butters can be used on your skin, but this butter is especially useful for skin. Orange Peel oil has been shown to clear acne prone skin.

Curl Boost Butter 10.99$-4oz, 16.99$-8oz

Directions: Use on damp hair. If you have a TWA or Wash & Go, rub butter in hands, then gently rub butter all over hair. If you are doing a Twist/Braid Out, place butter on each section of hair and then twist/braid. A little goes a long way.

*Special Tip: If you want to elongate your curls, wash and blow dry your hair (on low or cool heat setting). Then, do a twist or braid out putting this hair butter on each section of your hair. 

Ingredients: Avocado Butter, Olive Butter, Rice Bran Oil, Fragrance Oil

My Review: The first one that I tried was the Curl Boost Butter that is enriched with avocado butter. I don't remember what I used with it but my curls were super define but yet greasy at the same time. But when I used it again on my giovanni 2chic line wash day my hair felt extremely well balanced. I haven't used the other butters because like I stated. The other two butter I would use my aloe vera spritz and then seal with the butter, on my daughter's hair, and it will give it a nice curl and stay moisturized. 

Now the texture of the Brazil Nut & Orange Healing butter are both really smooth creamy consistency. It's not like a whipped cream that's light and fluffy. More of a texture like peanut butter. Thick, easily spreadable, and melts to the touch. For the Curl Boost butter it is a whipped with a oily layer to it. Not oily in a bad, but you know it's enriched with it. I like that it has a light weight to it and gave me awesome soft curls.

The package for each container was in wide open jars that are easily accessible. The logo is beautiful and modern give the butters a well put together look. Even though there isn't enough room to add a lot of details I really liked how she was able to give key points and tips on what each butter does. Not making it hard to read the directions or ingredients either.

For the smell of each one it had a distinct aroma. The one that I loved the most was the Orange Healing Butter because it smell like you just peeled a orange. When I applied it to my daughter's hair everyone that came near her would complaint on how good she smells. I personally like the strong scent, but then again if you do not take to strong scents I wouldn't recommend. The Brazil Nut butter had to grow on me because I did not like the nutty smell at first. But once place on freshly wash hair it smells like heaven. For the Curl Boost butter to me it it smelled like a fresh avocado with a light hint of a floral fragrance that lingered but not for to long.

Overall I was very very pleased with the results that these products give on me and my daughter's hair. I felt that it did as it promised on the package. The prices maybe a little pricey but for the quality of these butters they are worth it. Plus believe me ladies a little goes a long way. I would take maybe a nickel to a quarter size and it would serve its purpose. Will I be repurchasing these again? Yes I will be restocking on black Friday when I do my big haul. These butters are amazing and I wouldn't sleep on these ladies!

My Grade A+

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Helpful Tip Tuesday on Wednesday!

FIGHTING HAIR LOSS

Hair loss is common for men and women and there are many causes of hair loss. There are now believed to be two categories of hair loss. The first is hair loss that occurs with skin shedding. This type of hair loss is also called scaling and results from a skin disorder. The other type is hair loss that occurs without skin shedding. The cause is not known, but the problem affects men and women, regardless of age, race or health. There are many causes of hair loss. The problem can be hereditary, related to a poor diet or lifestyle, medications and other health conditions. There are many hair loss products on the market and hair loss vitamins to nourish the follicles and encourage hair growth. Be careful when choosing hair loss treatment products. look for a natural hair loss treatment that contains vitamins, minerals, amino acids, herbs and other natural ingredients to prevent damage and heal the hair and scalp. Avoid chemical laden products that cause the hair to become dry and brittle. Hair loss is a problem on the exterior and interior areas of the body, so you need to address the problem and look for hair thinning solutions that work on the inside and the outside. A healthy diet with quality protein and other healthy foods will provide the nutrients you need for healthy hair. To make sure your nutritional needs are covered, hair loss vitamins are formulated to provide the essential nutrients needed for healthy hair growth. In addition to protein, you need B vitamins, vitamin C, D and E and several minerals and amino acids. Avoid sugar and caffeine and drink plenty of water, at least eight glasses. The water will flush the impurities from the body and hydrate the skin and hair. For best results, combine a quality natural hair loss product with a healthy diet. Choose products that contain vitamins, minerals, natural herbs and essential oils. Look at the label for ingredients like aloe, jojoba, citrus fruits, sage or rosemary. Hairobics offers products that work equally well as a hair loss treatment for men and hair loss treatment for women and are designed for all hair types. Keep the hair clean and soft by shampooing and conditioning the hair at least once a week. This removes dirt and grease from the hair and scalp, making the hair smooth and keeping the pores of the scalp clean. Proper hair care and maintenance helps to repair damage and stimulate hair growth.

Random Spotlight: Evolvee

Hey Ladies

For this featured Spotlight I had the chanced to interview a fellow blogger that I admire. She has now took her talents to new levels by creating her own Naturals tees. Now I have seen some tee's while entering the natural hair world but not any that made me want to buy until now. This was another interview that I was overjoyed to do. Ms. Shannon is such a uplifting personality that I know you will enjoy reading!

1. When and where was your company established?
My line was launched on Monday July 1, 2013. Done so from New Jersey.

2. What was the reason and/or inspiration to start this line?
Being an avid t shirt collector and lover. Coupled with being a natural hair enthusiast and lover of women empowerment.Further,  feeling  t shirts are personal forms of expression & individuality. I was compelled to start a line of my own. I felt it to be of importance to celebrate women, and natural hair. Especially since both are on the rise Women running and owning their own businesses and companies, and many are embracing natural hair. I want to also be as creative as my mind allows, in which all of these things mentioned here inspired me.

3. Why did you choose t-shirts and not something else?
The reason behind choosing a T shirt brand oppose to a hair brand is because as I am anaturalista, with a passion for natural hair. I am also a person who is an artist one who has a form of art deeply embedded in my soul. Being a former hairstylist is a form of art. I went into that directly from high school at age 19. With designing , and coming up with cool ideas for my T shirts. I feel right at home , right back to my creativity is which I love, and enjoy so very much. I really enjoy be able to get as creative as I possibly can with creating. With bold messages, and the likes. I've found that's were my roots are. In creating, and it being a form of art in designing my t shirts.

4. Are you natural? If so why, how long, and please tell me about your journey?
Yes! I am a proud naturalista. Having  been natural for 4 years. To be honest my reasoning for going natural was not to have healthier hair or anything like that. My initial reason for going natural was because I thought it was beautiful, and I loved the  beauty of it.  Being a former hairstylist I worked with many hair textures but there was nothing compared to the beauty of natural hair. It wasn't until doing further research did I realize that was it not only beautiful, but and added benefit in the way of our health. By no longer relaxing, etc. As far as my natural hair journey, My journey has been a pleasant one. I keep it very simple. I wear my hair short, not much into length. with little hassle or worry. Always wore my hair in short cuts. Easy breezy is my motto.

5. What is your target goal?
My target goal for my hair is to maintain it's healthy state. My goal for my brand is to expand, expand, expand. To continue a brand that's relatable, edgy, bold,  and  with a touch of street. Hoping to have my own company. One ,that I can leave for my children. 

6.Is there anything else you would like the readers to know?
For those whose desire, dream or goal is to have your own business . I say never , ever stop dreaming, and never, ever give up. continue on with your dream. Find YOUR niche   your niche may not be like your neighbors. Find your passion. Passion is important. Its what makes and ordinary person apart from an extraordinary person. Surround yourself with like minded people, have a plan, and activate. 

Evolvee natural hair and t shirt line can be found at
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Follow us on twitter @evolveetees
Instagram @evolveetees
Facebook: Zainab1
My blog : www.AuNaturale007.blogspot.com

Wash day @ 45 weeks post

Hey guys

Now I know this was supposed to be a post describing how my braids installation went. But I totally forgot I started school this week. So I was swamped with work and I don't think it will be a good idea to install them until I get a feel of my classes.
Another thing if you follow me on IG I posted that I feel that I am ready for my big chop. I think I may do it on the 31st of August which would be 1 year since I had a relaxer. I think that would be a perfect way to celebrate my anniversary and I am tried of seeing this relaxed ends. I'm sooooo over them. So yeah just wanted to vent to you guys a little bit.

Whooo now that that's of my chest here is how my wash day went:

• Pre pooed with Ynobe shop Pre-poo treat. I think I left this on for about 2 or 3 hours because I was doing school and I had exited out, then I had to retype it over. So I don't know how long this was keep on. But I know that it really took.
•Shampooed 2x with Giovanni 2chic Ultra Moist shampoo. Now for some reason my hair felt hard the first time, but soften back up when I did it the second time.
•Next I conditioned my hair with my condiyioner mix. Now what may you ask is in my conditioner mix. Well a bunch of conditioner that I mixed. LOL!! I had to use up the rest of the tresemme touchable smooth Conditioner so I added Giovanni 2chic moist conditioner & Organix moroccan argan crème conditioner. The reason I mixed them was because 1. they were taking out to much room and 2. I already have my staples so why not use it up this way!
•Sprayed my hair with CCs hair tea and coated it with Aubrey's GPB balancing conditioner. I worked this in my hair well for 2 to 3 minutes before rinsing it out.
•Deep conditioneds with and without heat for 2+ hours, using Aunt Jackie's in control. I had a little left that I need to use up. So I used that and 2 sample packs to do my hair. I also ran out of conditioning caps so I use a target bag instead. I may or may not be repurchasing it. I really want to get my staples down to two lines. One protein & one moisture. I'm still thinking about.
•For leave ins I used Quidad Moisture lock sample pack. Now out of the 2oz pack I got 3 uses out of it. 2 for me and 1 for my daughter. The smell alone was a winner for me so I can't wait to use it again. Sealed that with shea butter oil. Detangled and the style with Giovanni 2chic ultra sleek Keratin & argan leave in and styler. When I took out my rods baby soft curls. Loved it!

I did trim the back of my hair a little. I'm slowly cut my hair off. But I still think I will cut it all off in the end of august.

Thanks for reading!

Random spotlight: Jmaire Natural Beauty

Hey guys

I know It has been awhile since I did a Random Spotlight. So I am on the look out for more people to featured.

Now this feature was inspired by a contest I won on a blog. I have been using these butters for well over a 2 months now have have loved the results every time. I really want to get these items out there cause not only do I believe that every small business needs a chance to shine, but these are some top quality all natural butters that are what they promise. But more will be in the review. So a  review on these butters will be up next week. But for more information don't forget to click the links at the bottom!

I contacted Ms.Jacqueline asking her if she would like to be featured in my spotlight. I was thrilled when she agreed to. I really enjoyed reading her answers and felt like I was with her on her journey. After a few emails here is how the interview went.

1. When and where was your company established?

 J. Marie Natural Beauty was started in 2011 in Chicago, IL.

2. What was the reason and/or inspiration to start this line?
Going natural has altered my journey in life. I never expected a change in how I wore my hair to change my life. I didn’t have a lot of support when I first eliminated perms from my hair care routine. I didn’t know what I was doing (I wasn’t familiar with YouTube or the wonderful natural hair websites at the time), and I didn’t have support from family and friends, but I knew I was doing the right thing. Being able to stand up for myself and my choice in how I wore my hair gave me a major confidence boost and from then on, I’ve just been pressing forward doing what my internal sense of righteousness tells me to do. I’d been shuffling my feet on starting a natural hair/body business until my son was born in December of 2010. After he arrived in the world, once again, everything changed. I took one look at his perfect being, swelled with pride and became extremely conscious of the fact that I was responsible for how well he turned out as a person. That was the moment that I decided to start my business. I wanted to be able to not only tell him, but to show him that he could achieve anything he wanted from this world. I wanted to be able to tell him to go for his dreams just like Mommy did. 

3. Why haircare?
 I actually make natural and organic hair and body products at affordable prices. You shouldn’t have to pay an arm and a leg for natural products. Please check out my online shop at: Etsy

4. Are you natural?

If so why, how long, and please tell me about your journey? Natural and loving it! I've been natural for 4.5 years and it was very difficult in the beginning, but it's been such a pleasure discovering not only my natural hair, but myself as well. I transitioned for one year. I didn’t really know what I was doing. I just decided that I wasn’t going to perm my hair anymore and I wore sew-ins until I figured out what to do with my hair. At that time, I didn’t know about all of the wonderful blogs and websites dedicated to natural hair. Once I became hip to those (one year later), I cut off the remaining permed hair. I had to learn not to let people’s ignorant comments get to me in the beginning of my journey. It’s one thing to ignore a stranger’s comments, but it’s another thing when the negativity is coming from your family and friends – it hurts. I experienced that during my transition and my first year, but it’s been smooth sailing ever since then. They see my growth (physically and mentally) and they admire and respect my decision now.

5. What is your target goal?
I never had a specific target goal with regard to length, but I'm always amazed and astounded (i.e. I hit my Dougie and the Stanky Leg) whenever I reach a major milestone. The last time I checked, I was at bra strap length and you couldn't tell me nothing! I didn't come down off that high for about a week. I've simply come to the conclusion that if I take care of my hair, it will grow and be healthy and that's exactly what happens.

6. Is there anything else you would like the readers to know?
You only have one life – live it the way you want to live it! Believe in yourself and your ability.Know that you are capable and smart enough.Act - now is the time! You never get time back, make the most of what you have left. 

7. Do you have any tips for our readers?  
Make sure you start and maintain your natural hair journey for you! Although it's totally worth it, It can be tedious and time consuming learning how to care for natural hair, so make sure it's something that you really want to do. Once you're on your journey, I suggest the following regimen that you can tweak as you learn specifically what your hair likes.

1. Co-wash weekly

2. Deep condition bi-weekly

3. Do protective styles as much as possible

4. Use minimum heat

5. Use natural products as much as possible

6. Have fun with your hair!

You can reach me at:
Instagram: @jmarienatural
Twitter
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Facebook 
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Review* #19 TGIN Moisture Collection

Hey guys!

I was sent the new moisture collection from Thank God I'm Natural (tgin) to review and share my results with you guys. When I was contacted I was to excited because I have heard nothing but good reviews about these products and was planning hard for when I would use these on wash day. I was sent a 5 item sample pack for my review. These products have no parabens, sulfates, petrolatum, lanolin, artificial colors, or animal testing in them which is very beneficial to one hair journey. 

Sample pack-17.99 $

Moisture Rich Sulfate Free Shampoo
Ingredients: AQUA (WATER), SODIUM METHYL-2 SULFOLAURATE (DERIVED FROM COCONUT), DISODIUM 2-SULFOLAURATE (DERIVED FROM COCONUT), CETYL BETAINE (SUGAR BEETS), LAURYL LACTYL LACTATE, ALOE VERA JUICE , SODIUM LAUROYL LACTYLATE, LINIUM USITATISSIUM (FLAX SEED) EXTRACT, PANTHENOL (PRO-VITAMIN B5), GLYCOL DISTEARATE, GUAR HYDROXYPROPYL TRIMONIUM CHLORIDE , PHENOXYETHANOL (PLANT DERIVATIVE) ETHYLHEXYLGLYCERIN , FRAGRANCE.

Directions: Distribute a liberal amount of tgin Moisture Rich Sulfate Free Shampoo throughout wet hair. Rinse well. Follow with tgin Triple Moisture Replenishing Conditioner or for extra deep conditioning, tgin Honey Miracle Hair Mask.

Triple Moisture Replenishing Conditioner
Ingredients: Aqua (Water) , Stearyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cyclopentasiloxane, Stearamidopropyl Dimethylamine, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera ) Leaf Juice, Cymbopogon Schoenanthus (Lemongrass) Oil, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil, Chamomilla Recutita (Chamomile) Flower, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower, Behentrimonium Chloride, Fragrance, Lactic Acid, Amodimethicone, Disodium EDTA , DMDM Hydantoin,TEA Dodecylbenzene Sulfonate , DPG, Potassium Chloride, PEG 150 Distearate , PEG-7 Propylheptyl Ether, Cetrimonium Chloride, Methylchloroisothiazolinone , Methylisothiazolinone

Directions: Wash hair with tgin Moisture Rich Sulfate Free Shampoo. Follow with tgin Triple Moisture Replenishing Conditioner, or for extra deep conditioning tgin Honey Miracle Hair Mask.

Honey Miracle Hair Mask
Directions: After shampooing with tgin Moisture Rich Shampoo, and conditioning with tgin Triple Moisture Replenishing Conditioner, apply a generous amount of tgin Honey Miracle Hair Mask to hair and comb through to ensure thorough distribution from roots to ends. Place a plastic cap over hair and sit under dryer for 10-15 minutes or leave on the hair for 35 minutes to 1 hour without heat. Rinse thoroughly with warm water, followed by cool water. 

Benefits

 • Restores life to dry, damaged, or color treated hair

 • Improves shine and manageability

 • Locks in moisture and repairs damage

 • Reduces shedding and breakage

Ingredients: WATER, RAW HONEY, OLEA EUROPAEA (OLIVE) FRUIT OIL, SIMMONDSIA CHINENSIS (JOJOBA) SEED OIL, ALOE BARBADENSIS LEAF JUICE, STEARYL ALCOHOL, CETYL ALCOHOL, STEARAMIDOPROPYL DIMETHYLAMINE, GLUTAMIC ACID, FRAGRANCE , BIS-AMINOPROPYL DIMETHICONE , BENZYL ALCOHOL , EDTA, CYCLOPENTASILOXANE ,  DIMETHICONE , METHYLCHLOROISOTHIAZOLINONE , METHYLISOTHIAZOLINONE

Butter Cream Daily Moisturizer

Directions: Use daily or every other day as need. Apply a small amount to hands, rub together, massage through and prepare hair for your normal styling regimen. Can also be used as a setting cream to create soft, smooth and shiny two strand twist and twist-outs.

Promises/Benefits:

•Hydrates dry curls and coilsImproves manageability

•Reduces frizz and fly aways

•Promotes healthy hair growth, shine, and softness

•May also be used as a setting cream for two strand twists and twist-outs

Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Glycerin, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), Cetearyl Alcohol, Coconut Oil, Amodimethicone, Brassicamidopropyl Dimethylamine, Oleo Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, , Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, Prunus Amygdalys (Sweet Almond) Oil, Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Oil, PEG 4 Hydrogentated Castor Oil, Ceteareth-20, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Panthenol (Pro-vitamin B5), Aspatric Acid, Perfume, Cyclopentasiloxane, Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate, DMDM Hydantoin, Benzophenone – 3, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Tetrasodium EDTA, Simethicone, BHT

Twist & Define Cream
Promises/Benefits: Enriched with coconut and Vitamin E oils, for smooth and shiny twists outs with long lasting curl definition.

•Creates smooth, shiny well-defined twists and twist outs

•Gives strong hold and lasting curl definition

•Reduces frizz and fly aways

•Hydrates dry strands

Directions: After washing and conditioning with tgin Sulfate Free Shampoo and tgin Intense Hydrating Conditioner, make sure hair is thoroughly detangled. Apply tgin Twist & Define Cream to damp detangled hair in small sections and comb through from root to tip before twisting. Mist untwisted section with water before applying product if hair begins to dry. For best results, allow hair to air dry. For maximum shine and softness, go over each twist withtgin Butter Cream Moisturizer once hair is dry and/or before untwisting.

Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Coconut Oil, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, PVP, Triethanolamine, Polysorbate 20, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Panthenol, Carbomer, Fragrance, Iodopropynul Butylcarbamate, DMDM Hydantoin 

My Review: The first product that I used was the TGIN Twist & Define Cream to refresh my curls. I used with Obia Naturals Curl Hydration Spray and when I took my rods out the next day they were a little hard at first, but as the day went on they soften up. It was moisturizing at first but after a day of going outside with these crazy elements my hair got a little hard, buy adding a little of the daily hair moisturizer it soften that up. My new growth were popping curls everywhere. They were well defined.
On wash day I used the shampoo and it didn't not like my hair. Thet were combating like it was nobodies business. No slip, my hair felt stripped, and it made my hair more tangled then before. It did one thing for sure and that was clean my hair. To me it felt like more of a clarifying shampoo then a no sulfate having shampoo and that was after washing my hair twice with it.
I used the conditioner next working it in my hair for about 2-3 minutes. It really really left my hair feeling back to normal The stripped feeling from the shampoo was gone and I could detangle with ease. My hair just sucked up the conditioner like it was water after using the shampoo. The conditioner took extremely well in my hair.
Next I used the Honey Miracle Hair Mask that I left on my hair for 3 hours. I didn't use heat cause it was already hot outside. When I rinsed this conditioner out it felt like my hair really absorb the nutrients from the mask. My curls felt balanced and not more of one then the other.
Now for the Butter Cream Moisturizer I didn't really use except for around my edges which are the driest of my hair it did quench there thirst and left my hair smelling good all day. I also used it on hubby and he said he noticed a difference in his hair. Being that he's outside more then me, the weather dry out his hair alot and this truly help with that!

The texture of the mask was liked whipped honey. It still had the thick consistency but was very easy to spread. I thought the 2oz was not going to do my head, but boy was I wrong. It covered it and then some. The consistency of all the rest were light to get out the bottle, but was thick enough to spread over your hair. I think the sample pack would do good on ladies with tall textured hair types as well.

The smell of each item was the same. A light floral smell that was not heavy at all. I really like this smell of it.

The package is simple clear jar with just the logo and description on the container. Nice wide opening for very easy excess, for us ladies with fat fingers. I was a able to get every last be of product out of the jar. Another plus on my list for theses products that they have free shipping on select items, the majority of them, and that is truly helpful on your pockets. 

Overall these were truly worth the wait and I am happy to say that I can add to the good reviews about these products given them a Grade of a A-. The minus is only for the shampoo that I felt was a little to stripping for my hair. This line was well worth the grade from free shipping to promised moisturized hair. I definitely want to purchase the deep conditioner to my staples and will be on my buy list for Black Friday! 

Thanks for reading! 

Helpful Tip Tuesday

Good Alcohols

Cetyl Alcohol- This is a fatty alcohol that is derived from coconut and palm oils. Far from drying, this alcohol is actually an emollient (makes hair and skin softer).

Stearyl Alcohol- another fatty alcohol. It is nothing like ethanol, it is is actually a white solid and is insoluble in water. Stearyl alcohol is often used in conditioners and shampoos and acts as an emollient (softener).

Fatty alcohols provide an emollient effect, and bind water and oil to give our favorite conditioners their slip and creaminess.  Cetyl and/or Sterayl alcohols are present in most  of my favorite handmade  products.

Here's a list of good Alcohols:

Behenyl alcohol
Cetearyl alcohol
Cetyl alcohol
Isocetyl alcohol
Isostearyl alcohol
Lauryl alcohol
Myristyl alcohol
Stearyl alcohol
C30-50 Alcohols
Lanolin alcohol

Wash Day @ 44 weeks post

Hey Guys!

How has you week been!?

I couldn't wait for wash day this week because my hair really needed the TLC. I didn't get the chance to co-wash this week because it just seem to be another busy week.

So I used a new line to me this wash day called Thank God I'm Natural (tgin). My next post will be a detailed review of these item's I will just be stating how I used the product. I'm also prepping my hair for a box braid protective style. I my co wash and deep condition my hair again before I install them. But I will think on it before the time comes.

Here's how it went:

•Pre pooed with Ynobe Shops Pre Poo Treat covered overnight to really soften my hair up. Rinsed.
•Shampooed 2x with Tgin moisture rich shampoo. Rinsed.
•Next I used the Moisture rich Conditioner. Which felt like heaven to my hair. I worked that in my hair from root to tip. Rinsed.
•After that I sprayed my hair with CC's Hair tea and coated that with Tresseme's Protein Renewal. I left this on for about 3 minutes while I brushed my teeth. Rinsed it out
•Then I deep conditioned with the Tgin Honey Mask for 3 hours. I had to do some grocery shopping so I wrapped up my head with a scarf that I had from the Dekem Divas Box I did a review on. Rinsed.
•Greased my scalp with Jamaican Black Castor oil. For leave ins I used a sample pack of Quadid Moisture lock. I smell amazing and really added to making my hair soft. Sealed thatbin with Shea Butter oil which is extremely moisturizing and I use it alot on my kids to seal in the water. Then for a my choice of a styler I used Jessicurls Confident Coils in the scent Island Fantasy. Setting it with rods.

Now when I was finished my hair actually was smoothed out and had a shiny to it that I haven't seen before in my hair. I was in shocked. Today went fast being that went to the store and washed my hair early. I was very pleased with today's results in the combination I used.

Thanks for reading!  HHJ

Review* #18 My Sister's Keeper Online

Hey Loves

I truly love writing reviews & bringing to you companies that you may not heard of before. So this review is about a relatively new small body care company. Dealing with all natural herbs and butters. The owner was very polite and helpful when talking about her products. My Sister's Keeper Online can be found on all of your common social media sites and I have all those listed at the bottom. 

Sample Pack-10$

Glycerin Soap Bar-3$

 Glycerin soaps is hypoallergenic, gentle on the skin and can help in relieving symptoms of some skin disorders. Glycerin soaps leaves your skin soft and smooth, and has been reported to help prevent the wrinkles and stretch marks.To keep the bar of soap from melting, it should be stored in a cool, dry place before use and on a soap dish that has holes for drainage.

Chocolate Kisses Body Butter

Ingredients: Shea Butter, Coconut oil, Almond oil, Castor oil, Jojoba oil, Cocoa butter, Honey, Vitamin E.

Promises & Directions: Seals in moisture and keeps skin soft. Use after a shower or bath when skin is still damp.

Chocolate Kisses Body/Massage oil

Ingredients: Olive oil, Safflower oil, Grape seed oil, Sweet Almond oil, Jojoba oil, Coconut oil, Vegetable Glycerin, Castor oil and Fragrance. 

Directions & Promises: Smooth over skin after a shower or bath when skin is still damp. Seals in moisture and keeps skin soft.

Chocolate Kisses Scrub

Ingredients: Sea salt, Coconut oil, Jojoba oil, Safflower oil, Vitamin E & Fragrance.  

Warning: Bathtub may be slippery, please take care when exiting. 

My Review

Customer service was excellent. I was replied to in a timely manner and all of my questions were answered. I was given a tracking number and a product questionnaire which I think is extremely vital in a new business. A customer feed back is very important and shows that a business honestly values your opinion and input.

Package was clear and liable. Even when a little oil spilled on the containers the wording did smudge or smear. I really like the company's logo. For the samples size I felt like the were nicely packed with more then enough product thwn most companies do. I know I could get a lot of uses out on just my samples alone.

The texture & consistency of the oil and scrub were just like any regular scrub & oil. The scrub you can tell it is jam pack with oil, but not to much that it feels overloaded. For the body butter it is nice and creamy, plus a little goes a long way so I know I will get a lot of uses out of it for me and the family. Each product was easy to apply and came in easy to get to containers. 

My experience with each product was just like it was promised. My skin was locked with moisture all day and didn't dry out from the west coast dry heat. I used just as directed after a hot shower on damp skin with only a little bit of product and I seen good results. Each item smelled absolutely amazing that i wanted to eat it. Not overpowering at all!

Overall I was very impressed with this sample pack and would highly recommend this small business. This sample pack would be the perfect gift for any occasion with it wonderful package and great deal on quality products.

 My Grade: A

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Helpful Tip Tuesday

Beneficial oils:

Jojoba Oil
Jojoba oil: Helps to induce hair growth

Avocado Oil
Avocado oil is loaded with nutrients, amino acids, essential fatty acids, as well as vitamins A, B, D, and E. And it’s excellent for moisturizing, deep conditioning, improving hair strength, strengthening hair, and boosting shine.

Castor Oil
Castor oil thickens hair, promotes hair growth, prevents thinning, moisturizes, helps reduce split ends, helps to tame frizz, and prevents scalp infections.

Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is great for preventing dandruff, promoting hair growth, moisturizing, strengthening hair, thickening hair, and preventing damage.

Olive Oil
Extra Virgin Olive Oil, is great for moisturizing, deep conditioning, improving hair strength, eliminating dandruff, and also has powerful antioxidants that can help fight hair loss.

Rosemary Oil
Rosemary oil is great for stimulating hair follicles for hair growth, preventing hair loss and greying, preventing dandruff, strengthening hair, and boosting shine.

Safflower Oil
Safflower oil protects hair, nourishes hair follicles, moisturizes, and stimulates blood circulation to promote hair growth and thickness. And it is extremely beneficial for natural as well as dry chemically treated hair.

Sweet Almond Oil
Sweet almond oil works great as a “sealant.”  Sweet almond oil also nourishes hair, smoothes hair cuticles to control shedding, promotes hair growth and thickness, prevents hair loss, and boosts shine.

Wash Day @ 43 weeks post

Hey guys! 

I want to thank you all, my old and new readers, for we have reached 10,000 page views & 100 likes on Facebook. I am so overwhelmed with happiness you guys wouldn't know. I would love to host a giveaway but I did giveaways for the whole month of June. So when I hit 15,000 page views & 200 Facebook likes I will host another one. Really Thank you guys so much!!!!!!!!:)

I hope you guys enjoyed your weekend. My weekend was very hectic. From taking hubby back and forth to the hospital and the kids. I am truly drained. So I wash my hair Sunday when I find some time to spare. 

I got my order of staple pre poo treatment, plus a new Masque through a swap and I used it today. I think one thing you can never have to much of is deep conditioners being that are sooooo good for your hair. So if you have any recommendations on deep conditioners/masques please leave a comment below!

Here's how it went:

● Pre pooed with (staple) Ynobe Shop Pre Poor Treatment for well over a hour. My hair was feeling extremely dry for the past 2 days and it seemed like anything I did was not working at all. So after I rinsed this out my hair felt like is was given life again.

Not Alot of shedding thanks to the pre poo treat

● Cleansed my hair 2x with Jessicurls Hair Cleansing Cream. All I can say is that I'm really like this cleanser. Rinsed that out in lukewarm water.

● Sprayed my hair with CC's hair tea before covering it with Aubrey Organics GPB Balancing Conditioner. I love that 1 hair tea bag can last me for about a month and a half. I massaged this into my hair for about 3 minutes from root to tip. Rinsed in lukewarm water.

● Deep Conditioned with Hairvèda Sitrinillah Deep Hair Masque for over 2 hours with heat. The directions said to apply a palm size amount and that's what I did and my hair felt nice coated. I have a 16oz jar and I fell this will last me a good while. Rinsed this out and cool water and my hair felt like it absorb the conditioner, plus adding some strength from the coconut oil.

● Greased my scalp with Jamaican Black Castor oil. Used a small amount of ILY leave in and sealed with shea butter oil. For my styler I used my DIY Custard with rods.

Nice wash day for such a hectic weekend! :)

Mini Review

Ynobe Shop Pre Poo Treatment

4oz-4.87 & 8oz-7.87

 Ingredients: Water,  Conditioner Base (Cetearyhl alcohol, and stearalkimium chloride) Olive oil, Avocado oil, Aloe Vera Juice, Grapeseed oil, & Lavender Essential. 

Promise: Ynobe Pre-poo Treat is formulated to make shampooing and conditioning the hair easier. Helps with detangling and is great for helping mend those split ends.

Directions: Saturate the hair with Ynobe Pre-poo treat. This can be done in sections if you have longer/thicker hair. For best results leave in hair under a conditioning cap for 30 min-1 hour.  Shampoo and condition as usual. 

My Review: I can't explain how this really helps tremendously with aiding in detangling and giving me slip throughout my wash day process. So when it's time for detangling with a comb it is truly a breeze. No knots, rough spots, or fairy knots. Like I said above it also gives extra moisture to my hair. I haven't used it with heat but I bet if I did my hair would melt like butter. Finding good products that add with giving my hair slip so I won't be ripping out hair at the end of deep conditioning is so helpful when working with two textures. I highly recommend this product if your transitioning. The price you cannot bet for the lasting amount that you receive. Plus Ynobe always has good sales on her Facebook and Product Month Spot lights where her products on sale on her website. So check her out

Thanks for Reading!!!:)