I was contacted by a company called Regrowzthat produce an all natural scalp homeopathic system to help stimulate hair growth & regrowth.
Regrowz is based on ancient Ayurvedic medicine that includes about 30+ plants and herbal ingredients. The recipe is specifically formulated to prevent, stop and reverse the effects of hereditary hair loss in both men and women. It is designed to help with scalp stimulation in order to help grow and regrow hair and should be focused on the area/s affected with slow/no growth.
Regrowz can either be used for 3 months – 6 months (depending on your personal needs) and has developed to be used for both women and men but both are said to be effective in the same way.
The Regrowz Scalp Stimulant is developed to help open the pores (in areas where you have experienced hair loss) and is the first step to preparing the scalp to receive the Restoration Serum (step 2). The comb attachment acts as a deep exfoliant, cleansing the scalp of the hormone Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) which is contained within the natural oil produced by the scalp (sebum). It should be left on the scalp for a 30 minute period before applying the Restoration Serum (without rinsing it).
Similar to the Scalp Stimulant, the serum should be focused on the scalp itself and massaged for 1 minute and then left on for a minimum of 60 minutes to overnight (by covering the hair with a shower cap/plastic bag in order to avoid staining). It is said to have been effective in 100% of those that have used the serum and clinical studies of those that participated reported a 39.41% reduction in total hair loss with up to 44.90% individual reduction for some.
After 60 minutes – overnight the products needs to be washed out of the hair with shampoo. This system is most effective when used frequently (every other day is best).
I was given a discount code: 10caregrowz46 that can be used upon checkout on Regrows.
I plan on monitoring my progress in my crown and back of head area since my crown seems to grow the slowest and the hair on the back of my neck experiences more tension/friction while wearing my hair down, using a scarf or putting it up in a ponytail. I shall be using Regrowz for 3 months and will do a 1.5 month update as well as after 3 months.
My Wash-n-Go started with my wash day process where I first used the Strengthen Shampoo:
Photo credit Revlon Realistic USA
1. Cleansing Using about 4-5 pumps of the shampoo after damping my hair with water (I wash my hair in sections) I focused on my roots and scalp first in order to remove product buildup, sweat, dirt etc. Using my finger tips I gently massaged my scalp and worked the shampoo. I also used my scalp massage brush to help lift product buildup and sweat from my scalp. I added another 3 pumps of shampoo onto my roots and scalp before working the shampoo on the length of my hair. It smells divine and had a little bit of slip to help detangle (however, I did not necessarily focus on detangling while using the shampoo that came later). I have always had a hate hate relationship with shampoo because from past experience they have ALWAYS left my hair feeling dry and stripped. However, this shampoo did neither! It lathered up a little bit and left my hair feel clean without stripped of natural oils produced by the scalp. It basically left my scalp and hair feeling clean without that typical “squeaky clean” feeling I have experienced in the past. In terms of shampoos, this definitely has been one of the best I have personally used.
Photo credit Revlon Realistic USA
2. Conditioning: After shampoo-ing I moved onto their Strengthening Conditioner (Intense Moisture). I struggled getting the conditioner out of the pump because it is really really thick which, is something I had anticipated when I did my initial review of the box (check my previous post). I ended up removing the pump and just squeezed the conditioner out of the container. I worked the conditioner from ends to roots since the ends of our hair is the oldest and driest parts so I focus on that first. I am very heavy handed with conditioner because this is when I really finger detangle and remove shed hair (using my fingers as a comb – I no longer use a comb while washing my hair). This conditioner melted into my hair, despite being really really thick. I had anticipated that it would sit on my hair but I was proven wrong! It basically dissolved. My curls were left detangled, soft, moisturized and clumped together. I absolutely loved how hydrated my hair felt after using the conditioner. I was left with a normal amount of shed hair (for me) as I would on any other wash day. I left the conditioner on with a shower cap for 10 minutes (as per their instructions) and then rinsed it out.
Photo credit Revlon Realistic USA
3.Moisturizing For the Wash-n-Go process I first moisturized my hair with their Strengthening Butter Creme Leave-in Conditioner. This is the thickest Leave-in Conditioner I have ever applied on my hair! I was actually a little worried that it might just coat my strands because of the thick consistency of the product, especially since I have fine strands. I also wasn’t sure if my curls would be weighed down due to the product just sitting on top of the strands instead of being absorbed but I yet again was proven wrong! My hair literally drank up the Leave-in! It did’t sit on top of my hair, it practically melted into int nor did it leave it feeling greasy in any way. I really put it to the test by applying A LOT of Leave-In. It smells amazing and left my curls moisturized, soft, shiny, hydrated and clumped together. After applying the leave-in is when I go for my wide tooth comb to make sure I have gotten rid of all tangles and shed hair (my comb was free of shed hair at this point).
Photo credit Revlon Realistic USA
4. Defining:To define my Wash-n-Go I used the Strengthening Curling Custard. This is another product that is thick in consistency however, it has more of a cream texture compared to the Leave-In. This product helped to enhance my curls, clumped each strand and also left my hair smelling amazing and looking shiny. It didn’t leave it feeling coated nor did I have a “crunchy” after effect on my curls. I was left with fluffy, frizz free, bouncy hair that had body, movement and definition.
Final Verdict:
Overall, I loved the results of my Wash-n-Go, from cleansing right down to styling. I was impressed with how well my hair absorbed the products without feeling weighed down nor product overloaded. My hair had volume while having little to no frizz (I went to town with my Afro comb because I LOVE lifting my roots to create MORE volume). My curls were defined, soft, shiny and hydrated.
Initially I did wish that the line included some kind of oil since I am used to applying one after moisturizing my hair however, I think that since both the leave-in and the curling custard include oils such as: sweet almond oil, black cumin seed oil, olive oil, argan oil, coconut oil and even Shea Butter & Cocoa Butter, I think for someone with fine hair such as myself the oils included in the products are sufficient. (I don’t know if those with thicker hair strands (coarser) hair would feel the same). I would have liked to see a Deep Conditioner in the product line because my wash day usually includes deep conditioning on a weekly basis. Maybe that will be added at some point.
Other than that, I enjoyed using the line & look forward to trying the other styling product I received when I do a Bantu Knot-out!
Let me know if you have ever tried Revlon Realistic Black Seed Oil and what you thought!
Here is my second styling tutorial using the Avocurl Line – Conditioning Butter.
As I mentioned in my first tutorial using their Daily Moisturizer, I was contacted by the founder Jasmine, to be a Brand Ambassador. For this demonstration, I used their conditioning butter to do a Wash & Go.
Today I am super excited to share some news along with a tutorial!
I was recently contacted by a natural product company called Avocurl. The owner (a gorgeous and extremely lovely natural herself) asked if I would be interested to join her Brand Ambassador program. I of course did my research on the company and their products before happily saying YES! I will have a product review video and post later this week but just a heads up, I was more than pleased to say yes because of the product itself (the ingredients in the products and the back story behind them).
So without further ado let’s get on with the tutorial shall we:
I applied the products as follows: Moisturizer, Oil and Gel. I let my hair dry and set overnight before taking down my twists with a little oil on my fingertips. I separated my very very very defined curls, fluffed a little and Le Fin!
As the days went on, my hair got bigger and better (always happens with me and my fine hair strands). The photo below is day 3.
Like I said, I was sent two products so my new tutorial will be using the Conditioning butter to do a wash and go followed by a product review of both.
I want to quickly rethank Jasmine for sending me her lovely products, I look forward to working together with Avocurl!
(Disclaimer: all thoughts and experiences expressed are my own honest review).
If you happen to buy any of Avocurlplease let me know what you think of the products (and don’t forget to use the code to get your discount!)
Today I am here with a Product Review based on one of my own recipes after being kindly requested to do so. (Thank you for the requests and please do keep them coming!)
So I know a few of you will be wondering how can you “objectively” review a mix you made yourself. Obviously I made, use and shared this recipe because I love it however, that doesn’t mean I can not explain how it works, its limitations (as a DIY product), how it will probably work for others and to do so honestly. I also demonstrate how the mix works on my own edges in my video (below).
So in case you want to take a peek at the “how to” of this DIY you can find the recipe here.
Let’s get down to it shall we.
Since this is a DIY I always suggest that you do not use your fingers to dip into the product. This recipe does not utilize any anti bacterial ingredients other than Vitamin E Oil and Essential Oil which, are great at extending the shelf-life of products however, they DO NOT eliminate the growth of bacteria/fungus etc.
Use a spoon (I like using the back of a spoon) to scoop up a little of the mix at a time. This will prevent you from dipping wet/product covered fingers in the mix.
Use a CLEAN and UNUSED toothbrush to apply the mix onto your edges. It will help control how much of the mix you are applying and will also help you “lay down” your edges. (Buy a soft new toothbrush that is used solely for your edges)
Depending on your choice (pomade or balm) you will need to store the mix in your fridge (for the balm) or a cool and dry place e.g. your cupboard (for the pomade).
This is a wax free recipe (because I have fine hair and wax makes my hair feel really “gummy” and sticky).
You might notice that if you make this as a pomade it could potentially become a little more running during the hot summer months (this is particularly true for me) due to the lack of wax.
The lack of wax in this mix also means there isn’t that “hard hold” you might get from commercial pomades/balms. This recipe is more for “laying your edges” versus giving your a sculpted hold. So if you want that, you will want to add wax e.g. bee’s wax (a search on google will provide you with a list of recipes that includes nearly all the same type of ingredients I use along with wax).
The overall shelf-life of this mix will depend on 1. the shelf life o the individual ingredients you use. E.g. if you oils and butters have a 1 year shelf life your mix will be good for 1 year. 2. As long as you are not adding water based ingredients to the mix, not dipping wet/product covered fingers in your product it should last a while.
If you have a thick hairline (high density) then you will probably notice that your hair requires the addition of wax to help “lay” your edges so it might be a trial thing for you!
For my fine haired ladies, a little of this goes a LOOOONG way, trust me a dab of this will do the job!
Aside from helping with styling your edges this mix includes a number of nourishing ingredients for the hairline which can actually help moisturize, stimulate hair growth and provide overall goodness for your edges!
You can see how I “lay my edges” in my explanation video below!
I would love to hear what you think and if you will give it a try and please let me know if there are any videos/posts you would like me to cover, I love hearing from you!
This literally is a just a quick “For Your Information” post to inform you that Nikki Walton (a.k.a. CurlyNikki) has released her second book! Her new book “When Good Hair Goes Bad”*drum roll please* can be downloaded for FREE! Yes, I said for FREE!!!! (I would hurry as the eBook might only be out for free for a limited time).
NOTE: I was neither paid, compensated nor requested to share this information, I happen to be subscribed to curlynikki.com and received a Newsletter update with information about the book’s publication and eBook version.
Her first book “Better Than Good Hair” was published three years ago and was all about empowering woman to take control of their hair care and providing emotional support. This time “When Good Hair Goes Bad” has a compilation of quick hair fixes, tips and tricks at just the turn of a page!
I will leave it at that for the moment since I have only had a chance to glance over the eBook (I love what I have seen so far) plus I might just have to squeeze in another eBook review so I don’t want to give too much away just yet.
Anyways, happy downloading and happy reading Maicurlies!
If you get a chance to read it please let me know what you think, you know I love hearing from you!
DISCLAIMER: Please note, I want to make it clear that I was contacted by a representative working for Kimberly to see if I would be interested to to review her eBook on my Blog/YouTube Channel and I was pleased to do so.
I have always insisted on openness and honesty on my blog/channel and would never compromise my integrity to provide truthful information whether it is in the form of information sharing, a review, a DIY mix or a product suggestion. That holds true with this review, and having been sent the eBook did not influence my thoughts on it, one way or the other. All thoughts expressed in this review are my own honest opinions. I was not paid or compensated to state anything mentioned in the video and/or my blog post.
“Curly Halo – Your Natural Hair Care Reference Guide & Workbook”
Who are the target readers?:Those that have been natural for a while can benefit from the book thanks to the fact that it includes helpful information that any natural can use along their continued Natural Hair Journey (regardless of how far along they are). It includes hair and scalp care tips which again is why I suggest “long term” naturals can benefit from it. Now for those that are either considering going back natural, those transitioning or those of you that might have recently Big Chopped (BC) I highly suggest Curly Halo for you! It is packed with suggestions, tips and advice to help you along your journey (which can be a little daunting at first, especially if you are threading in unfamiliar water)!
Pages & Chapters: The eBook consists of 80 pages (in total) and has been broken down into 10 chapters.
How to “use” it:Since this is an eBook, I got a link with the eBook and then downloaded the file. It can be read on any software that allows you to read a PDF file. I actually used my eBookshelf (software I downloaded on my Samsung) but it can also be read on a regular PDF reader.
Text: Curly Halo takes you through hair and scalp care right from the start and not only provides information on how one can provide healthy hair and scalp care but also some steps that can be taken in case you come across any hair/scalp issues throughout your journey. It is a really easy read, it is not jam-packed with too much text, includes images and tip boxes and most notably worksheets! The worksheets can be used as interactive pages that you can use for note taking – part of your Natural Hair Journal. (P.s. I highly recommend you get yourself a Hair Journal if you have not already done so)! The language used is very simple which makes it easy to read and digest and does not require you to have a science degree or even any prior knowledge of hair care. I love the simple yet elegant appearance of the eBook as well!
Highlights for me: First and foremost I LOVE the “holistic” approach Kimberly used in the eBook. This of course works really well with DIY hair care so you can be sure that I LOVE this aspect! Thanks to its simplicity it provides readers with easy to do healthy hair/scalp care options while still providing alternative suggestions for those that are not too crazy about taking a more “hands on” approach to their hair/scalp care (not everyone is tickled to death about DIY hair care). Another part of the eBook that I love are the worksheets. As I mentioned, they are interactive and can help guide you to make decisions, take note of experiences/thoughts and keep track of trial & error “experiments”. Having a place where you keep all this information is really important, regardless of whether you have recently returned back natural of have been natural for a while (we can not keep track of everything in our head)!
Would I recommend the eBook?: In closing, YES I really did enjoy reading Curly Halo and do recommend others to pick up a soft copy from Kimberly’s site!
If you have come across the eBook please share your own personal thoughts, I would love to hear from you!
Today I am here with something new, two book reviews! I am excited to share my thoughts on these two books written by the talented (and stunningly beautiful) author: Audrey David-Sivasothy. The books are “The Science of Black Hair” and “Hair Care Rehab”.
Disclaimer: Please note that I won both the books in an Instagram (IG) Giveaway (thanks to my friend Necey) that was done by Audrey. (Little shout-out to both of you ladies)! Here is Audrey’s IG page: https://www.instagram.com/blackhair101/). I was not sent the books for reviews (there were tons of winners btw) I just wanted to share my thoughts on the books. I have based this review SOLELY on my own personal thoughts and opinions (I am not a “book critic” by any stretch of the imagination).
Biographgy of Audrey Davis-Sivasothy (Retrieved from Amazon.com)
Audrey Davis-Sivasothy is a certified trichologist, lecturer and consultant to the cosmetology industry. A health scientist and member of the Society of Cosmetic Chemists, Sivasothy is also author of the international best-selling book—The Science of Black Hair. This foundational text on black hair care has been used to train cosmetologists all over the world, and is the bestselling and most highly-rated reference textbook on textured hair today.
Sivasothy has been a guest expert on The Dr. Oz Show, and her work has been featured in Good Housekeeping, Woman’s World, The Huffington Post, Essence, Sophisticate’s Black Hair, and Hype Hair Magazines.
Amazon.com
“The Science of Black Hair”
The Science of Black Hair – Image Source: Amazon.com
Who are the target readers? :Regardless of how much or little knowledge you might have about black hair, this book is suitable for those that are new to taking care of their own hair, those that are struggling with their hair care or even Hair Professionals (e.g. stylists, hair dresses).
As the name suggests, the book is tailored for those of us with Black hair and under that category, it doesn’t matter whether you are natural, transitioning, relaxed or telaxed, etc., there is so much helpful information in the book that covers all aspects of black hair. The books sets out to help you better understand your hair, how to care for it, how to care for your scalp and how to maintain a healthy hair & scalp routine for the long term. It teaches you how to maintain chemically treated or natural hair to optimal health, helps you regulate optimal product pH balance, helps you grow longer stronger and healthy hair and the most important aspect (in my opinion) is that the book highlights the importance of protein/moisture balance and how to achieve this in order to prevent breakage, retain & grow healthy hair.
Pages & Chapters : There are 13 chapters in the book and it consists of 256 pages (in total including index).
Text: It is a really easy book to read through and follow, you do not need a science degree nor any kind of former understanding about hair/hair care. You basically can learn straight from the book. The pages are spread out and includes images & illustrations (those of you that are really visual learners, you might want to opt for the colour version of the book versus the black & white option).
Highlights for me: Personally, as I mentioned one of the most interesting parts of the book was the focus on protein & moisture balance. It is something that I have commonly mentioned in my blog and videos since the hair is mainly made up of protein and requires moisture to stay balanced. Audrey does a really good job on highlighting the processes in which one can maintain a protein/moisture balance along with explaining why each process is important. Another section in the book that I really enjoyed is the explanation of the LOIS Hair Typing system (aka: L.O.I.S). I find this method a lot more helpful than the commonly known Andre Walker Hair Typing System – where hair is broken down in numbers (1 – 4) and alphabets (a – c). Now I am not the biggest fan of “hair typing” in general, especially in terms of people trying to find out ‘what kind of curl I have’ simply to categorize “manageable and unmanageable hair. I think the Walker system can be used to identify what type of curl you have BUT should be used together with aspects such as density, hair width etc otherwise in my opinion it is pointless. (I have written about both of Density and Width).
Anyways back to the LOIS typing system: it goes a step further than just identifying the “type” of curl one has by basically looking at the structure and characteristics of ones hair by identifying curl pattern, strand size and hair texture. In my opinion understanding those characteristics is A LOT more helpful!
I plan on doing a Video & Blog Post about the LOIS System in a few weeks so please stay tuned for that!
Where Can I purchase the Book? :
The book is available in 4 options (found on Amazon) – please be mindful when ordering to make sure you choose the specific one you want:
Would I recommend the book? : Absolutly! I highly recommend this book for anyone that has black hair!
“Hair Care Rehab”
Hair Care Rehab – Image Source: Amazon.com
Target Readers:The second book “Hair Care Rehab” has a special place in my hearth! While I highly recommend both books, I just ADORE “Hair Care Rehab”! Audrey created another wonderfully written book that is comprehensive while not overwhelming, easy to read, easy to understand and this book caters to ALL hair types. So if you happen to have Caucasian straight hair, African/Black Natural hair, Transitioning hair, Relaxed hair whatever the case might be this is for EVERYONE!
Pages & Chapter: It consists of 277 pages, broken down into 3 Units and is a paperback Black & White book (I have not found a colour version of this book).
Text: Audrey yet again crafted a wonderful guide that takes you through three stages of hair & scalp care that is filled with illustrations, images, easy to read text and helpful informative information that really gives you a great understanding of how to care for your hair all by yourself!
Highlights for me: There are so many parts of the book that I love but if I had to pick I would say that the biggest Unit of the book that helps you determine any potential hair/scalp issues you might be facing is one of my favorite sections of the book. It not only explains the type and cause of the issue but most importantly (in my opinion) it explains how you can overcome the situation and hopefully prevent it from reoccurring, since you have an understanding if its cause! I wouldn’t be myself if I didn’t mention the little Do It Yourself (DIY) section that Audrey wrote about! Yes, there is a little section on DIY mixes and you know I LOVE the fact that this has been included! I actually plan on doing one DIY for my Blog and Channel (I spoke with Audrey and she was happy for me to share….Thank You Audrey)!
Would I recommend the book? :I think the question is a little pointless but YES ABSOLUTLY!
So in closing as I said, I recommend both books. You can opt to go for one book first and then the second however regardless of the one you pick I think it is worth a read!
If you know of any other books that you have read and would recommend, please leave me a message below, I would love to hear from you!
I became aware of this baby while I was out of the country in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE). I was approached by a lovely sales lady to do a sample test and I (almost unwillingly) agreed. She took my shopping bags off my arms to help me out, talked to me about the product, explained what it contained and started the product sampling. She first washed my hands, scooped out a tiny bit of the scrub, gently rubbed it into the back of my hands. She let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing off, patting my hands dry and asked me “how does your skin feel”? With a big smile on my face I said “soft, smooth & lovely”! And I was hooked!
Petra Uplifting Sea Salt Scrub
Now, given as far as I can tell you can only purchase this bad boy from UAE (there might be a chance to purchase online by contacting them on their Facebook page but I can not be sure and therefore can not guarantee this). I just wanted to share in case some of you pass through the area or have friends/family passing through, living there that can pick up a scrub for you if you are interested to try it.
Product Details:
Size:17.63 oz – 500grams
Cost: At the time it cost 200 Dirhams but I paid 150 Dirhams after a discount ($54 but I paid $40, In Euros It was €47 but I paid €35 )
Smell:It smells divine! It really does smell so good, fresh, refreshing and with a hint of sweetness. (There was a Coconut and Vanilla option which smelt good as well but I preferred the Mango – Kiwi scrub).
Feel:The grains of sea salt are really small and finely exfoliate the skin without tearing or feeling coarse. While you massage the scrub on your skin it feels amazingly relaxing. The oil helps to leave the skin feel smooth after exfoliating without leaving a feeling of greasiness.
Colour:There is colour added to this scrub (Cl 61565) which gives it a bluish/green/aqua blue colour which is very pretty. The Coconut scrub has a slightly different colour, it is pale/Almost white in comparison to this one.
How To Use:
I was told by the sales lady that the scrub can be used on both your face and body but you need to be extra careful when using it on your face. Avoid getting it near your eyes (the skin under your eyes) and DO NOT get it in your eyes, the salt will burn! If you do get it in your eyes rinse with clean warm water. You want to apply the scrub onto damp skin and gently massage in a circular motion and rinse with warm water. You should only apply this 1 time a week maximum 2 times a week. (My suggestion is to start once a week and then decide if your skin will need an additional session). You might actually feel like your skin doesn’t need a moisturizer after the scrub thanks to it feeling so soft and smooth but you should so you provide extra moisture to your new skin cells.
Benefits of (Dead Sea) Salt Scrubs:
Salt scrubs helps to exfoliate the skin of dead skin cells.
Stimulates blood flow to the skin which helps to generate the growth of new skin cells, reducing the appearance of wrinkles leaving the skin looking young & fresh.
Dead Sea Salt scrubs are said to be particularly beneficial for those suffering from psoriasis and eczema thanks to the natural minerals.
Dead Sea Salt can assist in detoxifying, improving circulation and suppleness of the skin which is said to help reduce the appearance of Cellulitis.
As I mentioned this product seems to only be available in the United Arab Emirates however if you happen to be in the country (or your family/friends) hopefully you will remember this review and will go for a test in order to decide if you want to buy one for yourself!
P.S let me know if you like these types of reviews, i do have a few products I buy for my hair/skin which I can review.
Maicurls 