Wednesday, October 17, 2018

Oh La La @ Olaplex | Review


     No judgement, okay? I'm back with yet another hair review. I have a problem-- I am obsessed with hair care, but I promise... my blog will eventually amount to more than hair product reviews! In the meantime, or at least for today, we are talking about none other than Olaplex! Have you heard of it? Probably. Do you know what it is? Maybe not.

     Working in the hair industry, I have known about Olaplex for a few years now; however, there are multiple parts to the Olaplex line I more recently came to know! From the Olaplex website you will learn that "Olaplex was developed by Dr. Eric Pressly and Dr. Craig Hawker, two of the world's leading chemists. This dream team invented a single ingredient chemistry, that is free of silicones and oils. Olaplex links broken bonds in the hair before, during and after chemical services." To break that down to someone who is not super hair-term savvy... your hair is made of keratinized protein and inside of it there are multiple types of bonds. When you under go chemical processes, some of these bonds are broken -- Olaplex is meant to rebuild them. It comes in five different parts... yes, five! So, lets touch on those really quick:

Olaplex No. 1, Bond Multiplier: Meant to be mixed with lightener, color, or chemical services... and is said to "rebuild broken disulfide bonds and begin the process of preventing damage and repairing hair."
Olaplex No. 2, Bond Perfector: Meant to be applied to hair after rinses them chemical service out... it is said to "continue to rebuild and restore any remaining broken bonds ensuring the strongest, shiniest, and healthiest hair possible."
Olaplex No. 3, Hair Perfector: A treatment meant to be used once a week for "continuous protection from ongoing damage at home."
Olaplex No. 4, Bond Maintenance™ Shampoo: "Repair bonds while gently cleansing all types of hair. Impart moisture, strength, and manageability with every wash."
Olaplex No. 4, Bond Maintenance™ Conditioner: "Restores, repairs, and hydrates without adding excess weight. Eliminates damaged frizz for strong, healthy, shiny hair."


     I, myself, have no chemical processes done to my hair. It is all natural and pretty long, but I decided to give Olaplex parts 3, 4, & 5 a go! I start with No. 3... I rinse my hair with water and gently towel dry it so it is not soaking wet. I apply the product and allow it to sit on my hair for at least ten minutes as directed. Olaplex No. 3 is a bit more of a liquidy-cream, and I feel like I need a lot of it for my hair length but not very much comes in it (only 3.3 fl oz), so I mainly focus it on my ends and then run my hands through the rest of my hair! After the ten minutes I rinse it out.

    Next comes the shampoo! A little bit of Olaplex No. 4 (8.5 fl oz) goes a long, long way. It is a thick consistency so I spread it over my scalp and quickly dip my head back into the running water. I am then able to get a great lather from the shampoo and it rinses clean with ease. After the shampoo comes the conditioner... No. 5 (8.5 fl oz) is a nice cream consistency and applies well to the hair. I let that sit for 2-3 minutes and then rinse it out and I'm good to go! Side note... both No. 4 & No. 5 state that they are free of sulfates, parabans, and gluten... they are also vegan and color-safe!

     I was skeptical with my first few uses because I wasn't noticing anything, but I feel like this is a product line you need to be consistent with and give it some time to show the results. After the first week... I'm a believer. I really feel like my hair looks better. It is shiny without looking oily, bouncy, it feels so soft, and honestly ...it just looks GOOD. Each of the parts (No. 3, No. 4, and No. 5) retail for $28, and I personally feel like they are worth it. Have you tried it? Share your thoughts and experience with me!



[All basic information in regards to the product is provided by olaplex.com]
Disclaimer: This post is not sponsored & all opinions are my own!

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Saturday, August 25, 2018

Clean Maniac with Redken | Review


     I know, I know... it seems I am quickly becoming a blogger that solely posts hair-focused reviews! As someone who loves haircare, you will see these types of posts on my blog for months and years (hopefully) to come... maybe a little less in the future because I really would love to be posting more fashion/style oriented content, but for now, this is what I am able to bring to the table! Today we are talking about Redken's Clean Maniac duo! What are they meant to do? How do they work? What do I think? Lets get started!

Redken Clean Maniac Clean-Touch Micellar Shampoo 
- 10.1 fl oz
- $19
- For all hair types
- Sulfate-free and silicone-free
- Daily shampoo powered by micellar technology to gently remove impurities and product buildup like a magnet for a non-stripping cleanse
- Infused with Neofresh Technology (patented odor neutralizing technology that repels unpleasant odor so hair remains fresh)

Redken Clean Maniac Clean-Touch Micellar Conditioner
- 8.5 fl oz
- $20
- For all hair types
- Lightweight, silicone-free
- Infused with Neofresh Technology (patented odor neutralizing technology that repels unpleasant odor so hair remains fresh)
- Leaves hair feeling bouncy and healthy

     Both the shampoo and conditioner have a nice, clean scent (though my mom said it was nauseating... so if you can smell these before you buy them, I highly suggest you take that opportunity to do so)! These two products are essentially a clarifying set; which if you did not know, it is great to clarify your hair once a week (maybe more than that, maybe less than that... it all depends on your hair) to rid of any excess oil and product build up. The shampoo lathered up nicely for a sulfate-free shampoo and left my hair feeling like straw, which is actually common for a clarifier! I always suggest using a deep conditioner after going in with a clarifying shampoo because your hair is prepped to absorb all the moisture from a deep conditioner/hair mask and it feels amazing afterwards!

     I opted not to follow up with a deep conditioner so I could give the conditioner a try! The conditioner was useless for my hair. I could not get my fingers through the length of my hair and it still felt like straw after rinsing it out. This would be a product I would recommend for someone with ultra-fine hair that wants a super lightweight conditioner that does not weigh their hair down. It just was not for me. So, in short... the conditioner was dud, but the shampoo is a good clarifier; however my all-time favorite is the Paul Mitchell Shampoo Three! Did you try these out? What are your thoughts? Share with me in the comments!



[All basic information in regards to the product is provided by redken.com]
Disclaimer: This post is not sponsored & all opinions are my own!

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Tuesday, August 7, 2018

KMS For Your Tress... es | Review


     More new salon products have arrived! This month we got a bunch of the KMS line in the salon (at least twenty-five different products) and I decided to try some out! As we all know... I currently have natural hair, but my mom does color hers (actually, I color hers... but that is besides the point) so she chose the Color Vitality Shampoo & Color Vitality Conditioner, while I opted for the Hair Stay Anti-Humidity Spray because I live in New Jersey and as ya'll may or may not know... it's a swamp out here right now! I gave each of these products a fair shot so I have come to discuss my findings and give you all the in-depth review you might be looking for!

KMS Color Vitality Shampoo
- 10.1 fl oz
- $21.50
- Maintains color up to 3 times longer (than products without COLORVITALITY proctor shield)
- Seals in color and preserves vibrancy of color-treated hair
- Restores radiance
- Contains: AHA structure complex (Lactic Acid, Malic Acid – supports internal reconstruction); Polyquaternium-6 (evens out the hair surface); and Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (UV-Filter)

KMS Color Vitality Conditioner
- 8.5 fl oz
- $23.50
- Maintains color up to 3 times longer (than products without COLORVITALITY proctor shield)
- Moisturizes
- Restores radiance to color-treated hair
- Contains: Lactic Acid (supports internal reconstruction); Behentrimonium Chloride (evens out the hair surface); and Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate (UV-Filter)

     As for the Color Vitality line, I am going to be a negative nelly and say... I am just not a fan! I found that my hair was not as radiant as it was oily. I could barely get one full day out of using this before my hair started to look almost wet at the root, but they do smell nice. The shampoo is a regular shampoo... lathers up nicely, rinses out easily; however, the conditioner is purple. Typically purple toned shampoos and or conditioners are used on blonde hair that has yellow or brassy tones in it to counteract them. It does not really do anything for any hair colors beyond blonde. Other than the color of it (which I do not even mind) it conditions the hair nicely! The main reason I do not like it is simply because it makes my hair look so oily in such a short amount of time. Just... no. No thank you to these two for me, but if you are a blonde with dryer hair... you may have just found your holy-grail shampoo and conditioner!

KMS Hair Stay Anti-Humidity Seal 
- 4.1 oz
- $22.99
- Acts like an umbrella for the hair
- Shields hair from humidity and frizz for up to 72 hours
- Weightless shine spray
- Contains: Trisiloxane (provides shine); Dimethicone (Polymer that protects against humidity)

     Okay, good news! I actually like this one! It provides a very subtle shine (not oily or greasy looking) and actually does help against humidity. I spray this on as the final layer after my hair is styled and it cuts the frizz down! It does not cause my curls to drop out in the humidity or my straight hair to kink up so I personally think this is a winner. This one also smells delicious... actually, all the KMS products smell really yummy (just incase you were wondering)! Of course I am only reviewing three of twenty-five+ products from the line and it seems to be off to a rocky start, but I feel you might find some hidden gems from the bunch. Are there any stand-out products you've tried from the line? Let me know so I can give it a go!



[All basic information in regards to the product is provided by kmshair.com]
Disclaimer: This post is not sponsored & all opinions are my own!


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Monday, June 11, 2018

Paul Mitchell Prep | Invisiblewear Review


     New products hit the salon last month, ya'll! I always enjoy talking about new products that launch in the salon I work at because it is important to be knowledgeable on what you are selling. You need to know your products in order to satisfy your client/customers needs... or in this case, your own! If you watch my YouTube channel, you probably would have seen my most recent hair tutorial where I create a soft crimp in my hair with a flat iron. I love this style, but sometimes my hair is too soft for it. When this line came in, I read up on all the bottles and decided to give the shampoo & conditioner a go... so lets chat!


 Paul Mitchell Invisiblewear Shampoo
- 10.14 fl oz
- $12.00
-  Preps texture and builds volume
- What it Does: Cleanses and preps hair, creating the perfect foundation for effortless, undone looks
- How it Works: Volumizes, builds texture and adds life to dull hair
- Infused velvet flower softens each strand for flawless manageability
- Mineral Oil Free; Paraben Free; Gluten Free


Paul Mitchell Invisiblewear Conditioner
- 10.14 fl oz
- $13.00
- Preps texture and builds volume
- What it Does: Detangles hair and builds body to create the foundation for a perfectly undone style
- How it Works: Moisturizes, replenishes and leaves a glossy shine
- Infused velvet flower softens each strand for flawless manageability
- Mineral Oil Free; Paraben Free; Gluten Free


     The shampoo is almost like a gel consistency, which I myself do not mind! It lathers up nicely and has a familiar scent, though I cannot pin-point where I know it from! As a shampoo that is meant to clean up any build up on the hair to add volume, I thought this might be too drying but I was wrong! It just leaves my hair feeling clean... not dry or brittle! As someone who is not particularly in love with the overall product line Paul Mitchell puts out, I have to say I am a fan of this little guy! The only other shampoos I love from this brand are the Awapuhi Wild Ginger Moisturizing Lather Shampoo and the Shampoo Three clarifier. All the other shampoos I have tried left a waxy coating on my hair!

     Same for the conditioner, it has such a familiar smell! The conditioner itself feels really light in the hands. I personally love a rich, heavy conditioner... but I am trying to expand my horizons and this was a lightweight conditioner that actually added just enough moisture back into my hair. Again, I am pleasantly surprised! As for conditioners in the Paul Mitchell line that I like... I only liked the Awapuhi Wild Ginger Keratin Intensive Treatment. The others I have tried are just all so waxy... except this. Invisiblewear Conditioner for the win.




[All basic information in regards to the product is provided by paulmitchell.com]
Disclaimer: This post is not sponsored & all opinions are my own!
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Friday, April 27, 2018

The Ouai to Repair Your Hair ... or Not | Review


     Let's chat! So, I went to Sephora recently after hearing rave reviews about The Ouai Repair Shampoo & Conditioner, and as a hair junkie (yes, hi, here I am)... I just had to try it for myself! I washed my hair and conditioned it like I would any other day. First of all, yum! They smell freaking delicious-- actually the conditioner even smells better than the shampoo, which is usually never the case in my opinion!

     It cleaned my hair. The shampoo lathered up nicely (not too sudsy and yes, it still lathered even though it is sulfate-free)! It rinsed out with ease and then I applied the conditioner. It was alright, it did not make my hair feel super silky and nice... but it rinsed out well, and that's that! I didn't really notice anything great about either product, and I am not shading Ouai or Jen Atkin (the creator) because there are other products from the brand I really, really do enjoy!

     The shampoo was a good shampoo and the conditioner wasn't anything spectacular, but it wasn't horrible... I am just looking at the overall value for the price I paid... $54 for shampoo and conditioner is not cheap, and you need to use just as much as any other products out there. So, all in all, it smells good... washes out easily... and does not dry out the hair; however, it is expensive... and did not make my hair feel soft or "repaired" by any means.

     Now, just to make sure it was not just me, my mom tried it too and she felt the same. My hair is long and wavy (not chemically treated)... my mom's hair is above shoulder length and curly (color treated). Needless to say, I returned it. Thank goodness Sephora offers this as an option because I do not want to be out $54 for something that did not make me say "wow" or want to go share how great it was with anybody. These were just not for me! Have you tried it? Do you love it? Like it? Let me know your experience and tell me your favorite Ouai products!


The Ouai Repair Shampoo
- $28
- 10 fl oz
- A nourishing cleanser infused with our unique Smart Technology complex that replenishes moisture and fortifies breakage-prone strands—leaving hair stronger and shinier than ever
- Free of parabens and sulfates
- No animal testing
- Protects color


The Ouai Repair Conditioner
- $26
- 8.45 fl oz
- A mega-moisturizing hydrator that feeds damaged hair without adding weight. Infused with our unique Smart Technology complex for nourished, healthy-looking hair
- Free of parabens
- No animal testing
- Protects color




[All basic information in regards to the product is provided by theouai.com]
Disclaimer: This post is not sponsored & all opinions are my own!
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Monday, February 26, 2018

High-End Hair Oils vs. L'Oreal Elvive


     Today I decided I would write up a blog post on hair oil today because... well, I felt like it! Last month I received an Influenster voxbox that contained the L'Oreal Paris Elvive Extraordinary Oil for me to test out. Yes, it was free... but I was not paid or told I had to say anything special about the product. I did film a YouTube video on this hair oil but I also wanted to share a blog post comparing it to other oils I have as well! Here we go...

L'Oreal Paris Elvive Extraordinary Oil
     - 3.4 FL. OZ (100mL)
     - $6.99
Ingredients: CYCLOPENTASILOXANE, DIMETHICONOL, CAPRYLIC/CAPRIC TRIGLYCERIDE, PARFUM / FRAGRANCE, HELIANTHUS ANNUUS SEED OIL / SUNFLOWER SEED OIL, COCOS NUCIFERA OIL / COCONUT OIL, GLYCINE SOJA OIL / SOYBEAN OIL, CHAMOMILLA RECUTITA EXTRACT / MATRICARIA FLOWER EXTRACT, BENZYL SALICYLATE, BENZYL ALCOHOL, ALPHA-ISOMETHYL IONONE, HYDROXYCITRONELLAL, GARDENIA TAHITENSIS FLOWER EXTRACT, HEXYL CINNAMAL, ROSA CANINA FLOWER EXTRACT, BISABOLOL, NELUMBIUM SPECIOSUM EXTRACT / NELUMBIUM SPECIOSUM FLOWER EXTRACT, LINUM USITATISSIMUM FLOWER EXTRACT, TOCOPHEROL, BHT.

Macadamia Healing Oil Treatment
     - 4.2 FL. OZ (125mL)
     - $39.95
Ingredients: Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil, Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Ethylhexyl Salicylate, Butyl Methoxybenzoylmethane, Tocopheryl Acetate, Isopropyl Myristate, Fragrance (Parfum), Benzyl Salicylate, Coumarin, Butylphenyl Methylpropional, Linalool, Hexyl Cinnamal, Green 6 (CI 61565), Red 17 (CI 26100), Violet 2 (CI 60725), Yellow 11 (CI 47000).

Biosilk Hydrating Therapy Maracuja Oil
     - 4 FL. OZ (118mL)
     - $23.10
Ingredients: Cyclopentasiloxane, Cyclotetrasiloxane, Passiflora Edulis (Maracuja) Seed Oil, Hydrolyzed Silk, Hydrolyzed Quinoa, Phenoxyethanol, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Fragrance, Butylphenyl Methylpropional, Limonene, Linalool, Hexyl Cinnamal, Geraniol, Benzyl Salicylate, Citral, Citronellol, Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone, BCC12-Base.

Biosilk Silk Therapy (Original)
     - 5.64 FL. OZ (167mL)
     - $26.80
Ingredients: Cyclomethicone, Dimethiconol, Sd Alcohol 40-B, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Ethyl Ester of Hydrolyzed Silk, Panthenol, Phenoxyethanol, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Parfum (Fragrance), Hexyl Cinnamic Aldehyde, Benzyl Benzoate, Linalool, Gamma Methyl Ionone, Citronellol, Lilial, Hydroxy Citronellol, Geraniol, Eugenol.

CHI Silk Infusion
     - 6 FL. OZ (177 mL)
     - $26.80
Ingredients: Cyclopentasiloxane, Cyclotetrasiloxane, Dimethiconol, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Phenoxyethanol, Hydrolyzed Silk, Hydrolyzed Corn Protein, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Parfum (Fragrance), Benzyl Benzoate, Butylphenyl Methylpropional, Hydroxyisohexyl 3-Cyclohexene Carboxaldehyde, Hexyl Cinnamal, Citronellol, Coumarin, Linalool, Geraniol.


     These are all my hair oils! Again, the L'Oreal Elvive Oil (shown first) was sent to me complimentary of Influenster to test out, but all the rest I purchased myself. Now... look at the prices of all the "high-end" oils. Not one of them is less than $20. Did you peek at the ingredient lists too? Match them up to the $6.99 oil. Yes... they all share some identical ingredients. It is crazy that we basically pay for the name because to be completely honest... that $6.99 L'Oreal oil  p e r f o r m s , honey. It is super lightweight and leaves my hair extremely shiny. Not a greasy shiny, just a pretty and healthy shine. It smells beautiful too, but it is nothing overpowering. 

     The L'Oreal Elvive Extraordinary Oil has quickly become one of my favorites. Since I own all these oils, of course I am going to use them all! I do not want to waste all the money I spent on these, but if you are looking for a hair oil that won't break the bank... definitely give the Elvive Oil a go. After trying it out, I would 100% purchase it with my own money. If you want to know more, you can check out my YouTube video where I go on, and on, and on about it! Just click the YouTube icon in the header, and I'll talk to you all soon!



Disclaimer: This post is not sponsored & all opinions are my own!
(This post was originally published on my previous blog forum, which I have since gotten rid of. You will now only find my blog posts here on BlogSpot/Blogger)!
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Sunday, February 25, 2018

AG Hair Overload


     If you are a subscriber to my YouTube channel I mentioned the possibility of creating a blog post dedicated to AG Hair products since I noticed I have become a slight collector, so I scoured my cabinets and pulled out every AG item I own to share with you! AG is a brand that I have come to seriously enjoy— it starts with one product I go crazy for and then I want to try another and another, and boy... it is a not-so-vicious cycle. I not only enjoy AG products, but their brand as well. AG has won a number of awards, believes in simplicity and empowering confidence, and most importantly... they give back (locally and globally, which you can read more on in the ‘About’ section of aghair.com).

    Before we get into the show-and-tell of this post, I want to mention two quick things! First, AG uses natural ingredients and states that, “If we don’t believe in the integrity of the ingredient, simply put, we won’t use it. Which is why we leave out common ingredients like salt, paba, parabens and DEA.” You may also notice a number of their items are labeled 'Gluten-Free' as well! Interesting, right? So if you are living a gluten-free lifestyle, you may want a gluten-free shampoo too (it may sound funny, but shampoo goes on the scalps of all kinds of people... including those with gluten allergies). Secondly, AG Hair is cruelty-free! Their products are not tested on animals and the brand does not harm any animals in the making of their products. I find this is becoming something a lot of consumers are starting to pay attention to, and that isn’t the only great thing about the brand— they also try be environmentally friendly! They are extremely transparent, so if you want more information, check out their F.A.Q!

     Now, since I am sure you have heard enough boasting about the brand, lets talk about the products!

Fast Food Sulfate-Free Shampoo: — "Finally, a fast food that’s good for you. Fast Food sulfate-free shampoo is unbelievably rich and full of moisturizing lather, providing extreme hydration to chronically dry hair while being lightweight enough for all hair types. For optimal results follow with our nourishing Fast Food Leave On Conditioner." — Sulfate-free but still lathers, moisturizing but not heavy, and leaves the hair feeling clean (color-safe)... this is something I like to use in the winter months or when my hair just feels overly dry. I also like that this is paired with a leave-in conditioner versus a rinse-out.
Fast Food Leave-In Conditioner: "Fast Food feeds, smoothes and calms frizzy, thick or coarse hair instantly. Potent humectants and abyssinian oil do double duty to moisturize and mend split ends while adding weightless condition and shine to dry, lifeless hair." — This says it is great for frizzy, thick or coarse hair but I have a ton of fine hair and do not find that this is overpowering in any way, shape, or form!


Sterling Silver Shampoo: "Sterling Silver is specially formulated to eliminate brassy, yellow tones from blonde and silver hair. With its unique violet base, this mild toning shampoo removes dullness and brassiness, leaving blonde and silver hair looking cleaner and brighter."
Sterling Silver Conditioner: "Blonde or silver hair needs specific conditioning and our Sterling Silver is up for the challenge. Formulated to eliminate brassy, yellow tones from blonde and silver hair with its unique violet base, our toning conditioner provides intense moisture, condition and luster to hair." — I love that both the shampoo and conditioner are violet in color. They are meant to tone lightened hair, but I love using this on my natural brown hair. It smells so good and it does not leave the hair feeling dry like many toning products do.


Renew Shampoo: "Product build-up, chlorine and damaging mineral deposits are a thing of the past with Renew’s gentle, colour-safe revitalizing formulation. The ideal swimmer’s shampoo, Renew gently removes chlorine and product build-up and leaves hair with renewed manageability." — This clarifying shampoo is a must-have. I use this when my hair is feeling heavy or unnaturally dirty. It gives your hair a deep clean and is great to use prior to a hair mask. I would not recommend this for everyday use, but again... totally something I need in my collection of hair products.


Cleansing Cream: “Takes the place of traditional shampoo and conditioners. Ideal for super dry or brittle hair, Cleansing Cream is formulated with AG’s exclusive Sea Complex, combining anti-aging seaberry oil with natural seaweed extracts in a nourishing and conditioning base to gently remove dirt and pollutants from the hair. These oceanic superfoods strengthen hair, restore moisture and enhance natural texture. Cleansed hair is less stressed, softer and more manageable.”
Moisture Mask: “An extensive blend of naturally hydrating ingredients, including AG’s Sea Complex, penetrate deep into the hair shaft, sealing the cuticle for immediate, long term moisturizing benefits.” — The shampoo has no lather. I love to use this in combination with the Moisture Mask in order to really give my hair a boost of hydration. I do this once a week or once every other week depending on how my hair is feeling.


BB Cream: Leave-in “multifunctional hair primer, filling, smoothing, moisturizing and protecting hair against heat styling appliances and colour fading with AG’s exclusive CARE complex. This super rich, silky priming cream prepares and protects the hair prior to styling, evening-out porosity and leaving hair feeling thicker and healthier.” — This is meant to be a hair primer, sort of like how one primes their face prior to make-up application. I personally found this unnecessary in my own haircare routine. 


Beach Bomb: “Beach Bomb creates bombshell-worthy waves that are natural, full of texture and incredibly sexy. This lightweight, alcohol-free cream is infused with keratin protein, silk amino acids and our Curl Creating Complex (C3) to condition and keep your hair healthy while you’re looking good. A light coconut verbena fragrance transports you to the beach.” — I have an entire video dedicated to the use of this product. This is hands down my favorite air-dry texturizing product, and I have tried quite a few!



Remedy: “Formulated with over 98% plant-based and naturally-derived ingredients, Remedy leave on mist detangles, reduces frizz, adds shine and balances the pH of the hair. An elixir for the hair chock-full of healthy ingredients, including apple cider vinegar, Remedy leaves hair feeling noticeably smoother, while helping to restore strength, elasticity and lock in moisture. AG’s exclusive blend of essential oils provides natural fragrance and the benefits of aromatherapy. Ideal for all hair types, perfect for colour-treated hair.” — In love. This is an awesome leave-in. It holds similar characteristics to It's A 10's Miracle Leave-In, Redken's One United, and Matrix Total Result's Miracle Creator... but it is natural and lighter.
Dry Lift: “Formulated with over 96% plant-based and naturally-derived ingredients, AG’s Dry Lift instantly adds grit, volume and texture. Ideal for refreshing second day hair and creating updos.” — This particular product is not something I gravitate toward, but it DOES work!

    I love every single product I currently own from AG except for two: the BB Cream and Dry Lift. I find the BB cream an unnecessary step in my personal haircare routine and the Dry Lift is something I personally am not into. I am not saying these products are bad, I am simply saying they are not my favorite because they are both things I find unnecessary for my personal routine and styling... which isn’t to say someone else might not be able to go on with their routine without them! AG Hair is total win for me, from brand to product... I’m obsessed!



Signing out,
Kelly Elle — Hair Product Hoarder




Disclaimer: This post is not sponsored & all opinions are my own! All the quoted information in this post was retrieved from the AG Hair website. (This post was originally published on my previous blog forum, which I have since gotten rid of. You will now only find my blog posts here on BlogSpot/Blogger)!
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AG Hair | Natural: First Impressions


     I received an E-Mail from CosmoProf (a hair heaven for licensed professionals) that they were offering a free travel kit of the new AG Hair Natural line, and I was all in! I figured this would be a great kit to test out for a review since I use a number of products from the AG brand that I love. First, let me touch on the adorable packaging. The light nudist-pink back ground and palm leaves are speaking to my esthetic. I find this to be a very trendy packaging, and it goes perfect with the "natural" theme AG is trying to achieve. I also want to quickly note before diving into each product that the line is "formulated with 96-98% plant-based, naturally derived ingredients including apple cider vinegar and a blend of essential oils." AG also states it is "ideal for all hair types" and is "perfect for color-treated hair."

Balance Shampoo: Gently cleanses the hair and scalp. Organic apple cider vinegar naturally closes the hair cuticle for additional shine and organic argan oil and aloe vera further smooth and moisturize. Directions: Massage into wet hair. Rinse and repeat as desired.
Balance Shampoo Review: Though this shampoo is sulfate-free, it still lathers which I enjoy! It provides a good cleaning and rinses out easily, but I wouldn't say it left my hair smooth and moisturized... it felt a little rough. Clean, but rough. It also smells something like a lemon-verbena candle and I am not even mad about it!

Boost Conditioner: AG's boost conditioner combines coconut oil, mango seed butter, rosehip oil and hydrolyzed quinoa with the abundant benefits of organic apple cider vinegar to help nourish, detangle, smooth the hair cuticle and seal in moisture. Directions: Massage into clean, damp hair for 1-3 minutes. Comb through. Rinse.
Boost Conditioner Review: This is not a silky conditioner like other ones I use, but it still manages to do the job of detangling the hair with a little work (combing it through). I left it on for 5 minutes and it rinsed out easily. It did not leave a residue or slippy feel to the hair; my hair felt like... hair-- no tangles but not the smoothest run through ever. Personally I find this smells mildly of bazooka bubble gum.

Remedy Mist: Detangle, reduce frizz and add shine while balancing the pH of hair and scalp with the help of organic apple cider vinegar, hydrolyzed quinoa, organic argan oil and sugar cane extract. Directions: Spray in clean, damp hair. Do not wash out. Blow or air dry hair and style as usual.
Remedy Mist Review: This product has a nice light spritz with a lot of power. It immediately provided slip for the hair unlike the conditioner. This felt like it was conditioning the hair and reminded me a lot of a liquified version of the It's A 10 Miracle Leave-In Treatment (which is more of a lotion). The mist smells like the shampoo, just a little more faint!

RoseHip Balm: Makes both blow drying and air drying more manageable. Rosehip oil helps smooth, calm and seal the hair cuticle. Organic apple cider vinegar, coconut oil, mango seed butter and hydrolyzed quinoa help eliminate frizz, rebuild strength and add shine and elasticity. Directions: Apply a quarter sized amount to clean, damp hair (focusing more on ends), comb hair and blow or air dry. Style as usual.
RoseHip Balm Review: Left my damp hair with a smooth feel at first. I chose to air-dry my hair and this product made it waxy once it was fully dry. I find this to be like an air-dry texturizing cream, but it does not leave my hair feeling like other products I use with the same purpose. It has a familiar, clean smell but I can't pin-point what it is!

Dry Lift: Texture and volume paste. Directions: Emulsify a small amount in hands and apply to the roots on the hair.
Dry Lift Review: This product is smooth and creamy to the touch, but has a gritty texture in the hair. I find that this is great to piece the hair out, but I am not too sure about the volume aspect on roots because this is something I ever do to my hair. It smells like citronella (not potent) which I personally enjoy!

     I used all these products as directed, and the next day... my hair was super shiny! So, what did I like? Of all the products I tried (based on what I know I like to use and how I like my products to preform) I would probably only purchase the Balance Shampoo and the Remedy Mist. The conditioner just was not heavy enough for me, I prefer conditioners that allow my fingers to easily glide on through my hair, which was not the case with the Boost Conditioner. The RoseHip Balm felt waxy, and I am not one to use texture pastes on a regular basis-- however if you are, this is a good one! If you tried out the line... what did you like/dislike and why?


Disclaimer: This post is not sponsored & all opinions are my own!
(This post was originally published on my previous blog forum, which I have since gotten rid of. You will now only find my blog posts here on BlogSpot/Blogger)!
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Beauty Battle: Air-Dry Texturizing Creams

     Hello again everyone! I am going back to a hair-related post because I noticed a lot of texturizing air-dry creams coming out that are new to the market from many professional brands such as Sebastian, Matrix, Redken, and AG (just to name the few brands I am aware of, though I am sure they are many others)! I want to talk about each product I tried from each brand and I will do so below, but first I need to go over my hair type! I have natural hair... meaning no chemical processes (colors, bleach, perms, relaxers, Brazilian blow-outs, ect.)... and my individual hair strands are fine, but I have a ton of hair so it feels thick. The natural texture of my hair is a subtle, frizzy wave that I am able to easily curl and/or straighten with heat!

     I am trying to grow my hair long and strong with regular trims to keep it healthy and manageable! I cannot get away with wearing my natural hair to work, but I really would prefer to avoid going through my entire head with an iron. At my place of work, we started getting in some new products and they intrigued me... as I previously said they are creams that are applied to damp hair (most excess water removed) and aid in forming waves/curls while the hair air dries. I have four to review so lets get started!

     Please note: With each product I apply it after my hair oil to damp hair (excess water squeezed out with a towel), brush it through, and then scrunch it up toward my scalp. I then let my hair air-dry and put it up in a loose bun to go to sleep. My results are all based on the morning after when I took my hair down.


Sebastian Whipped Creme is "a luxurious nourishing styler perfect to define bouncing curls and soft waves. Whips up sensual curvaceous shapes, while conditioning and protecting your hair for a silky soft gloss, shiny finish, without leaving hair dry or crunchy." This one provides a conditioned feel to my hair. It makes it feel soft and bouncy with loose waves. I did run through my hair to add a few curls with an iron because I wanted a little more definition in it. The Whipped Creme contains 5.3oz of product and retails for $19.96! (I have a more in-depth post on this a few posts back)!


Matrix Style Link Wild Boho Texturizing Air‑Dry Cream is said to "texturize and enhance natural shape of hair for an effortless, tousled look. No heat needed, no fuss, all the texture! Effortless, tousled texture faster and easier!" The Wild Boho cream leaves my hair with a product-feel (I can still feel the product in it), but I personally do not mind because there is no claim stating you won't feel it. It doesn't feel horrible, some pieces just feel a little dry/stiff but I normally brush through those ones so they soften up. The product itself gives a good mix of waves and curls in my hair but I did run through with a straightener to tame a few pieces down/fix a few curls.
* Additional products in the Matrix Style Link Boho line include the Style Link Twisted Boho Curl Defining Air-Dry Cream and the Style Link Chill Boho Smoothing Air-Dry Cream. Each product is supposed to provide a different texture result and retails at $18.00 per bottle (3.4oz).


Redken No Blow Dry (NBD) Just Right Cream For Medium Hair is said to "provide frizz control and enhance movement while leaving hair with a no product feel. New Air-Tex technology with quick dry polymers and flex polymers allow for accelerated air dry time with amazing style, natural movement and weightless control." This product provided more curls than waves and again left a similar product residue feel to the hair (even though it says it won't); however, I did not find any dry/stiff feeling pieces in my hair with this one! Again, I did run through with a straightener to tame a few pieces down/fix a few curls!
* Additional products in the Redken No Blow Dry (NBD) line include the No Blow Dry Airy Cream For Fine Hair and the No Blow Dry Bossy Cream For Coarse, Wild Hair. Each product is intended to provide a similar result based on natural hair texture (fine, medium, coarse) and retails at $24.00 per bottle (5oz).


AG Beach Bomb is said to "create bombshell-worthy waves that are natural, full of texture and incredibly sexy. This lightweight, salt-free cream is infused with keratin protein, silk amino acids and the Curl Creating Complex (C3) to condition and keep your hair healthy while you're looking good. A light coconut verbena fragrance transports you to the beach." This one definitely gave my hair a beachy look--- thick, messy texture that was soft and had a soft, pleasant scent. The only downside to this one was that it was sticky to the touch when drying in the hair... the other three did not feel sticky. Luckily, that feeling went away once my hair fully dried! Beach Bomb contains 5.4oz of product and retails for $22!

     Onto the final verdict... none of these are bad, like at all. I genuinely like all of them and it's hard to pick a favorite. For my personal taste, I still love the Sebastian Whipped Creme (because I love anything conditioning), but it can almost be a little too soft for the texturized look; so for this post, I'll say my number one is AG's Beach Bomb because it does not contain salt, is said to be conditioning with their C3 complex... and the smell is so, so nice! Have you tried these out? All of these can be found in JCP Salon's and online on JCPenney's website!


Disclaimer: This post is not sponsored & all opinions are my own!
(This post was originally published on my previous blog forum, which I have since gotten rid of. You will now only find my blog posts here on BlogSpot/Blogger)!
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Intense Moisture | Joico Intense Hydrator


     I told ya'll I'd be back to talk about this! When I purchased the moisture recovery shampoo & conditioner, I picked up this as well to use as a weekly deep conditioner. This product states it is an "intense hydrating treatment: restores moisture to overly dry, damaged hair; seals cuticle; imparts shine; and improves manageability and elasticity." This is a rinse out conditioner that is only left on the hair for 3-5 minutes and is better used as a weekly treatment rather than a daily one.

     I do like the Joico brand so far (LOVE the Moisture Recovery shampoo & conditioner), and though I mentioned not liking the smell of the normal K-Pak products... this particular one is not too bad. It is creamy and applies well to wet hair. It is fairly easy to rinse out and it definitely aids in the condition of your hair. Pretty much, it does what it is supposed to do. Is it my favorite deep conditioner? No. Is it the worst I have ever used? By far, no. I guess it comes down to would I purchase this again... and that answer is yes, I would but only to keep as a back up incase I run out of one I really like.



     If you are curious on ones I love, I currently have three I am a big fan of: Macadamia Deep Repair Mask, Wella Elements Reconstructing Mask, and the It's A 10 Miracle Hair Mask... and I love them in that order. If any of you happen to have a mask you love, please let me know so I can try it out!



Disclaimer: This post is not sponsored & all opinions are my own!
(This post was originally published on my previous blog forum, which I have since gotten rid of. You will now only find my blog posts here on BlogSpot/Blogger)!


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