Rock the Look: Keyshia Cole @ the BET awards

Keyshia Cole's hair at the 2009 BET awards was on point. So I'm bringing you the scoop on how to recreate her look with tips from Celebrity Hair Stylist Ursula Stephen.

Motions Celebrity Stylist Ursula Stephen, who styled Keyshia's hair, and creates the iconic, ever-changing looks of Rihanna, gave us the low down on how achieve Keyshia's head-turning style: "I was definitely inspired by women of the 70's," says Ursula. "Keyshia's cut is a cross between Janet Jackson from Three's Company and Farrah Fawcett's iconic Charlie's Angels hair." To get the look:


Step 1: Ask your stylist for layers from top to bottom. "I gave her dramatic layers but didn't want to take off too much length, and I left some pieces longer in the back to give the cut an interesting edginess to it."


Step 2: On damp hair, spray sections with a heat protectant, such as Motions Heat Seeker Protecting Spray.

Step 3: Lightly spritz each section with hairspray, such as the Motions Light Hold Spritz, and immediately flat-iron the section to give it sleek, smooth style.

Redken Overnight Hair Treatment

I am a huge fan of overnight hair conditioning treatments and if a product is not actually meant for overnight use, I just might use it like that anyway. It's just like products for the skin, applying an overnight treatment to the skin, has become a necessary step in the nighttime prep for almost every woman. With factors like overnight absorption and the void of any environmental aggressors, overnight creams and lotions can work wonders that other treatments cannot. The same is true for the hair and even though 'we' have been doing this in our hair care regimens for years mainstream hair care companies are catching on.

Real Control Overnight Treat, is the first product produced by Redken to be used overnight. The product takes advantage of the nighttime renewal process and helps repair dense, dry, sensitized* hair. This indulgent night recovery treatment conditions, compacts and helps repair damaged hair during sleep. Much like day and night creams are used on the skin, the Real Control regimen includes treatments for the day depending on your hair’s need, but also has the option of an overnight treatment.

Specific advantages of using the Overnight Treatment include:

* Leaving the product overnight allows for optimum level of absorption (which leaves hair smoother and more resistant to frizz)

* Easily saturated by the hair cuticle allowing for optimal product absorption

* Hair is not exposed to the external environment and therefore is free of external and physical aggressors

* Heat of the head against the pillow also helps the treatment penetrate deep

AHS Thoughts: Even though most women who read AHS have been using treatments overnight for a while isn't it nice to see a product that is specifically made for that purpose? Plus, my favorite feature is that if you don't feel like washing it out first thing in the AM you don't have to, you can choose to leave it in all day if you want to. The formula is fast absorbing so if you don't cover your hair to sleep or if your scarf happens to come off it won't be a mess on your pillow. It made my hair soft and easy to deal with in the am and I did decide to just leave it in.

Summer Hair Oil

Summer Hair Regimen Tip: A great oil to switch over to during the summer months is Grapeseed Oil. Grapeseed Oil is taken right from the seeds of grapes and is a light oil that can be used on the hair, body, and face. I stick to using it on my body and hair. For the body sometimes I use it as a shave oil for my legs. On my hair I use it for shine and all over to seal in moisture.

Have you tried it? What are your thought?

It's ALIVE, my scalp that is

I told you guys about my latest relaxer experience and the dandruff that came shortly afterwards. Well I decided to do a scalp treatment to get things back to normal, including Davines Awakening Oxygenating Scrub Shampoo. This shampoo says that it is for asphyctic scalps, I had to google the word asphyctic because I had never seen it used that like that before. From what I can gather Davines made this shampoo for suffocating scalps, so I'm like okay... my scalp is suffocating from the dandruff so this will work.

Product Description: Davines Awakening Oxygenating Scrub Shampoo is formulated with natural jojoba microcapsules to delicately exfoliate the scalp and oxygenate the skin. Silica particles help to further exfoliate and stimulate microcirculation on a deep level thanks to their smaller size. Propolis extract, a natural antibiotic adjuvant with a vaso-protective and anti-oxidant action, helping in the removal of keratin scales. This shampoo also has essential oil of peppermint for it's refreshing, astringent and purifying action.

AHS Product Review: If you can get past the companies fluffy description and get down to the basics that this product has great exfoliating abilities to get rid of dandruff (or keratin scales... whatever terminology floats your boat) and just give the scalp a jump start, you'll be happy. I know when I read the description I have to admit I was a bit turned off, I mean who exactly are they talking to? Seriously, just tell me what the product does and some key benefits without all the fluffery (yes I made up that word, I just feel like I have to!) The product works great as an exfoliating scalp treatment, but I'm not so sure I would use this as a daily or even weekly shampoo. I'm saving it for PRN scalp treatments.

How to repeat my Exfoliating Scalp Treatment:

Night before washing - give your scalp a good massage using your favorite oil. I used Grapeseed oil because it's light and sinks in pretty fast. Be sure to really work it in all over your scalp, give yourself time to really massage and loosen up.

Wash Day - hop into the shower and wet your hair. I thoroughly wet my hair and scalp and then turned the water off. I then carefully parted my hair and applied the shampoo to each area and proceed to massage it in, something like a skin scrub. I made sure to go over my entire scalp exfoliating. After you feel like you have scrubbed all of your scalp, continue to shampoo it out and condition like you normally do.

Creme of Nature Relaxer Review

I relaxed my hair at 9 weeks 5 days post. I just couldn't take it anymore, I had a ton of new growth and I just wanted to get it done already. If you follow me on twitter you would have heard all about it first, but I'll share the experience here too. I went to the regular place that I usually go to and requested a Creme of Nature Relaxer. My hair came out straight and sleek, no real issues there. The only thing is that now that it's been about a week I am noticing that my dandruff issue is back. I've had it under control for a good while now so to see it return was a bit annoying. I'm not 100% sure if the relaxer is to blame, but that's really the only new thing I used.

Once I saw that the dandruff was really kicking up, I decided to do a scalp treatment. So the night before I planned to wash my hair I applied grapeseed oil to my scalp massaging it in as I went along. After that I put my hair into a high bun and went to sleep. The next day, I was really tired and didn't feel like washing my hair so I took the bun out and wore a ponytail. The high bun actually put a cute curl in my hair so it was okay. After that, I finally washed my hair. I used Davines Natural Tech Awakening Oxygenating Scrub Shampoo. More on that product later, but I will tell you this now, my scalp was scrubbed free of the dandruff and now my scalp is alive! So in the end it all turned out well, but I'm not so sure I'll be using the Creme of Nature Relaxer again and if I do I will purchase it on my own so that I know it's fresh... who knows how long it's been sitting in the salon.... that might have played a role. I should have spoke up when it wasn't in the new packaging, but hey I was preoccupied. I got some terrible news and that's why I've been a bit MIA, but I'm back.

Shu Uemura Sweepstakes

Just wanted to share with you Shu Uemura's new sweepstakes!

Grand Prize: One year’s worth of Shu Uemura Art of Hair products, retail value approximately $1680.00.

HERE’S HOW TO ENTER: This Sweepstakes begins at 12:00:00 AM Eastern Time (“ET”) on June 16, 2009 and ends at 11:59:59 PM ET on June 30th, 2009. To enter, go to http://www.shuuemuraartofhair-usa.com/. Existing Shu Uemura Art of Hair registrants and Salon Professionals are not eligible for the sweepstakes. Consumer non–registrants must register by completing their online profile, providing their complete name, birth date, zip code and a valid e-mail address to be entered. Registration is free and you can cancel your membership at any time. All entries must be received by 11:59:59 PM ET on June 30th, 2009. Limit one entry per person/e-mail address. Multiple or duplicate entries received will be disqualified. Entries are the property of the Sponsor and will not be acknowledged or returned. Sponsor is not responsible for lost, late, incomplete, or otherwise misdirected entries that are processed late or incorrectly or are lost due to computer or electronic malfunction or other error.

WINNER SELECTION/RANDOM DRAWING: One (1) Grand Prize Winner will be selected in a random drawing from among all eligible entries received. The random drawing will be conducted on or about July 6th, 2009 by Sponsor whose decisions on all matters relating to this Sweepstakes are final and binding in all respects pertaining to this Sweepstakes. Odds of winning a Prize will depend on the number of eligible entries received.

Curly Baby Hair

My friend has the most adorable baby with beautiful thick curly hair. Her daughter is only one yet her hair was proving to be a bit of a handful. I knew the perfect product, Miss Jessies Baby Buttercreme. So when my friend came over, I picked it out of my beauty closet and handed it over. I bet some people are gasping right now, like you gave away the Baby Buttercreme?!? But yes, I did. She needed it more than me and now it's doing wonders in her babies hair. All she does is run a small amount through the babies curl hair and then she leaves it alone. At first my friend said she wasn't crazy about the scent, but she was glad it fades quickly.

In this picture, the baby is post nap and playing and look at those curls! How cute right?

Toner for your Hair

Remember like a week or so ago we chatted about Foundation for your Hair? Well a current trend for hair care products must be skin care for the hair, because I'm back with yet another 'skin care' type product for the hair. Philip B. pH Restorative Detangling Toning Mist. After the foundation for your hair, I was kind of expecting other 'skin care' type products to pop up so I wasn't so surprise to hear about this and I gladly opened up a spot in my hair product collection for another Philip B. hair product. Philip B. and I are friends, well not exactly but Philip B. and my hair are great friends. Remember the review of the Anti-Frizz Formula 57 that I use exclusively for shine?

Anyway, the pH Restorative Detangling Toning Mist caught my attention because of the name of course, but also because it has Apple Cider Vinegar in it. If you a big hair board junkie, like yours truly you have probably tried apple cider vinegar as a clarifying treatment or at the very least heard of it. Anyway, while I do experiement and dabbling into the natural side of things, I have not yet tried the apply cider vinegar experiment yet so this is an excellent way to get my toes wet.

Product Claims: PHILIP B. pH Restorative Toning Mist is a detangling, leave-in toner for the hair. This super-lightweight toner adjusts the pH of tap water allowing the cuticle of the hair to seal tightly, leaving smooth, detangled, shiny, gorgeous, finished, toned hair. With Apple Cider Vinegar as a natural astringent and pH balancer, together with lightweight essential oils, PHILIP B pH Restorative Toning Mist detangles hair, reduces frizz and static, while enhancing shine, leaving your hair with a fresh, beautiful finish. A great refresher mist to be used at any time. Suitable for everyone with hair!

AHS Thoughts: I tried this product on both wet and dry hair. I especially love that the toner adjusts the pH of tap water allowing the cuticle of the hair to seal tightly.... good bye cold water rinses, essentially this does the same exact thing with the shock therapy. This spray is a great detangler and it also works great as a refresher product. Just a few sprays directly onto my one week post wash scalp and hair as if felt fresh and clean. The scent is very mild and I can't even describe it to you, it's very neutral almost fragrance free. If I rated my reviews with stars this would get 4/5 - minus one star because it's a bit pricey.

Available online at the Philip B. website for $24 (125 ml) and $72 (947 ml)

For those of you that care here is the ingredient list: Water/Aqua, Acetic Acid (Apple Cider Vinegar), Amodimethicone, SD Alcohol 40-B/Alcohol Denat, Polysorbate-20, Cetrimonium Chloride, Trideceth-12, Trimethylsiloxyamodimethicone, C11-15 Parethy-7, C12-16 Parethe-9, Glycerin, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed Oil, Arachis Hypogaea (Peanut) Oil, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Juglans Regia (Walnut) Seed Oil, BHT, Cananga Odorata Flower Oil, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Gardenia Florida Oil, Geranium Maculatum Oil.

A Hair Icon - Ferrah Fawcett

I just heard that Ferrah Fawcett passed away. Whenever someone passes it's a sad time, so say a prayer for her family and loved ones.

& Remember Ferrah Fawcett the Hair Icon in all her glory! Did you rock the flip out? Cause I know I did once or twice... or more than that!

Relaxed Hair + Coconut Oil

I have 4a/b relaxed hair and I use coconut oil regularly in my hair, with great results. Coconut oil is one of the only oils that actually penetrate into the hair shaft to provide health and shine from within. Here are several different ways to incorporated Coconut oil into your hair care regimen, check out just a few of the ways I use it.

1. An add-on to conditioners - Add some coconut oil to your favorite conditioner for an extra deep conditioning treat

2. An add-on to relaxers - I usually add a bit of coconut oil to my relaxers to make them less potent and achieve a wavy look over a bone straight look

3. Hot coconut oil treatment - enjoy a nice summer cocktail for your hair, warm up some coconut oil and apply it to your hair paying special attention to the ends and problem areas

4. Shine - Add a very small amount of coconut oil over your hair to add shine, works everytime!

What's your favorite way to use coconut oil?

The Sun's Heat is Enough

The heat from the sun is enough for me this summer, I will not be using heat in my hair (unless I have to go to an event).

My own personal rules: Throughout the summer I will not use any heat styling tools on my hair, including a flat iron, curling iron, hand blow-dry, etc. What I can use is a bonnet dryer for roller sets, but I will not be able to get my roots blown out because I consider that direct heat.

Exact time of personal challenge: From now until the end of August.

Passes: I am not limiting the number of passes I have, instead I will only use direct heat if I have an event to go to and I want to wear straight hair. I'm thinking if I make the rules a bit lax I can actually stick to it.

Suggested styles: Of course buns, but also down 'do's, ponytails, twist-outs, and rollersets.

Are you participating in any hair challenges currently? If so, share in the comments section.

Redken Hair Files: Summer Hair Color

Go behind-the-scenes with Latina Beauty & Fashion Director, Angelique Serrano, as David Stanko, Haircolor Consultant for Redken, turns her darker locks into summer bling with Redken haircolor. Check out Angelique's before and after look and learn about Redken haircolor offerings, tips to prepare for a haircolor service, and how to make an appointment to achieve your summer look.

David Stanko began with the consultation process to hear directly from Angelique what she was looking to achieve and portray with her new haircolor.

See the coloring process below:
Step 1: To lighten Angelique’s overall base, David used Color Gels, a dynamic permanent haircolor brand from Redken.
Step 2: Next , David added highlights with Blonde Icing Power Lift, part of the Blonde Glam Collection, which provided luxurious, conditioning lightening ability for all bases and hair types, as well as a faster and higher lift, better conditioning with exclusive Lumisilk Technology, and a new, creamier formula.
Step 3: David toned and glossed Angelique with new Shades EQ, part of the Blonde Glam Collection, which added condition and shine to any cool blonde while controlling unwanted yellow tones.
Step 4: Redken Chemistry, an exclusive, professional in-salon service, offering intense, customized treatments to help preserve Angelique’s fresh haircolor and treat distressed hair as a result of chemical and/or mechanical processes which can results in dry, brittle, frizzy, damaged, weak, sensitized, faded, and/or dull hair.
Step 5: To keep color radiant at home, David recommended the following Redken products for Angelique: Color Extend Shampoo and Conditioner dedicated to the care and preservation of color-treated hair Real Control Overnight Teat night recovery treatment, renews and repairs dense, dry, sensitized hair during sleep Blonde Glam Perfect Platinum, to neutralizes brassiness and preserves warm tones for ultra pale to light blonde locks

Best Long Hair Hairstyles

Got long hair? Then we've got 10 celebrity hairstyle inspirations for you

Long hair has its pros and cons. Cons: high-maintenance, like keeping split ends at bay and tangles to a minimum. Pros: Practically limitless style possibilities. If you have long hair, check out these hairstyles. If you don't have long hair and want it, check out the styles for inspiration. The looks are all quick and easy, so you can update your 'do in minutes. One of my favorite long haired celebs is Denise Richards, its so full and healthy... how about you? See hairstyles

Gone with the Grey

AHS wants to know, how do you get rid of your grey hair? Do you henna, semi-permanent dye, what?

Length Checks - How do you Measure

Ever since I began this journey to health hair, I've always seen women refer to the length of their hair based on different 'landmarks'. I've done it too, for example, APL or arm pit length or BSL for bra strap length. I'm pretty sure it's the standard for measuring your length, but there is so much variation with using these 'landmarks' for length checks. I'm not so sure why more people don't use actual inches when they refer to their hair, but we don't. Anyway, after my hair cut in January I decided to not cut anymore. Well for a while anyway, until the scissor call me again, but so far so good. The only thing I've been getting are trims, so here is my current length check. The next length check-in will be towards the end of September.

What would you call this length?

HawthoRNe's Daughter

Hannah Hodson plays Camille, Jada Pinkette Smith's daughter on the new TNT nurse drama HawthoRNe. How cute is her natural hair? It's so pretty, I'm glad the execs decided to let her rock her hair in all it's natural glory.

Be sure to watch HawthoRNe tonight at 9pm on TNT!

Vacation Hair Help

Maintaining your hair on vacation can be a huge nightmare or a pleasure, what do you want?

When I go on vacation I sort of forget about my hair, well okay, not exactly forget about it but I do not stress over it. I've gotten hair maintenance during vacations down to a science. I can even DC on vacation if I want without a hooded dryer or any of that. You just need to know what you need to bring and what you can leave at home so your suitcase resembles an actual traveler instead of a traveling hair stylist.

What to bring:

Your favorite moisturizing shampoo and conditioner, plus a cheapie conditoner like VO5 (I love the strawberry moisture milk).

A detangling comb or brush (I like the Jilbere shower comb and the Denman D3 brush)

Plenty of hair ties and Bobby Pins

Boar bristle brush for slicking down edges

Leave-in spray, moisturizer, and gel

What to leave:

Flat iron

Blow dryer

Curling Iron

Hooded dryer

I'm going to Miami in July, so I will be sure to keep you guys updated on exactly what products I bring and how I wear my hair throughout my mini-vaca.

Summer Hair Care Regimen

Now that the summer has officially around my hair care regimen is changing. I have switched gears to my summer hair care regimen. Because the weather is warmer, the sun is shining, and the water is calling me, my lifestyle requires the switch from a cold weather hair care regimen to a warm weather or summer hair care regimen.

AHS Summer Hair Care Regimen

Co-wash q 24-48 hours with VO5 Moisture Milks conditioner
Deep condition q week using whatever deep conditioner I decide to use that week
Use regular shampoo PRN or q week
Moisturize with a leave-in spray or moisturizing cream BID

Stay away from heat styling as much as possible
Wear air dry friendly styles

How do YOU switch up your hair care regimen based on the different seasons?

New Giveaway: On Beauty Blvd.

One lucky Beauty Blvd. reader will win a Soft & Beautiful Skin Beach Ready Kit featuring Soft & Beautiful Skin Firming Lotion, Soft & Beautiful Skin Hand Cream, and Soft & Beautiful Exfoliating Polish. All you have to do is visit Beauty Blvd. and enter for a chance to win!

Good Luck Ladies!

Spotted: The Instyler

About a week ago I was visiting my best friends at their home and I spotted the Instyler in one of their bedrooms. I was like, "hey! the Instyler... I have that. Do you not just love it?" My best friends (who are twins by the way) replied, "yeah it works good and we split the cost between us." Check out their hair below... all my friends are GORGE!

My Instyler review video on youtube has gotten quite a few views and continues to get tons of comments. Unfortunately some people misunderstand the commerical and think they are going to get two Instylers for $14.99 or whatever the price is. I haven't actually seen the infomerical on TV, but come on... does that even sound right? Two Instylers for $14.99? I mean seriously, no it doesn't sound right. All together, the Instyler costs about $130 but you do get two, so if you split the cost with someone else it's well worth it. But please don't think you won't be billed for the rest of the cost because you will, so don't say no one warned you.

Another issue, some people think that because I move the iron quickly over my hair and keep the hot cylinder away from my face I'm using it "wrong." I decided to put the hot part away from my face because I'm a bit nervous and I think I might burn my face if I use it the other way. Both ways work, so I do what's comfortable for me. As far as moving the iron quickly, I'd rather move it fast than move it too slow and cause heat damage to my hair.

Jada Pinkett Smith is Hawthorne

I'm a nurse by night, so of course when I saw a brand new show about a nurse (a black nurse at that) you know, homegirl was excited. Jada Pinkett Smith plays HawthoRNe The show does not disappoint, I made certain to set my DVR so I can catch every episode, but so far I'm really loving how she portrays an actual nurse. All the way down to the hairstyle, I'm so glad they don't always have her hair flowing in the wind because on a busy nursing unit that won't fly. Well actually it might, right into blood or body fluids, sexy right? So here's a hair care tip from Soft & Beautiful Spokesperson Roslyn Baker.

Create a side part and brush your hair to the back. Gently secure hair in a loose pony tail and finish the look with Soft & Beautiful Oil Sheen Conditioning Spray. Found in most major drugstores Soft & Beautiful Oil Sheen Conditioning Spray retails for $3.99.

Fight Frizz Fast

It's been so rainy and nasty in Jersey lately, I mean seriously, is it even really June? Doesn't seem like it with all this rain, it's really putting a damper on my mood and my hair. I had a relaxer about a week ago so of course I'm rocking a straight 'do. But the rain was seriously threatening that idea, fortunately I was able to make it through minus the frizzies. Have you been as lucky? If not, there are tons of fantastic products on the market that may come to your rescue.

Living proof No Frizz for thick to coarse hair addresses the two causes of frizz—humidity and friction. It provides a superior, extremely thin humidity barrier on hair while reducing surface friction. The result is the most effective, lightweight frizz fighter on the market today. Hair is left smooth and manageable without becoming greasy or heavy. Now it is easy to take this "good hair day in a bottle" with you on the go, with the new travel sizes available at Sephora.

Hair Rules Curly Whip curly whip's protein-enriched formula tames frizz and protects curls from humidity, keeping them soft, supple and shiny. Controls and defines wiry curls without crunch, infusing them with essential moisture. Interesting aspect is that you apply this product in the shower to soaking wet hair for the best results.

Sabino Moisture Block gives you superior thermal protection. Because essential moisture is locked in, you will not “cook” your hair from too much blow drying or flat ironing. Not even chlorine can penetrate Moisture Block. The company makes some pretty bold claims with this product, but all I can say is that it really does protect against frizz.

New Mizani Products for Summer 2009

Mizani has released three new products for Summer 2009. Have you seen them yet?

Mizani Coconut Souffle Light Moisturizing Hairdress - New whipped-texture, Coconut Soufflé Light Moisturizing Hairdress disperses evenly and absorbs quickly for touchably soft waves and curls. Using a concentrated, natural-oil blend of coconut and camellina oils, it instantly envelops each strand and infuses it with uniform moisture from the inside out. You know I'm dying to try this, I love anything with coconut oil in it.

Mizani Butter Rich Deep Nourishing Hairdress - Naturally curly hair in all its beautiful shapes and forms can lose its shine if it becomes dry, damaged or brittle. The newest solution: Butter Rich Deep Nourishing Hairdress, a weightless, whipped texture hairdress that combines Mizani’s newest aerated-texture technology with an exceptional blend of naturally emollient Shea and Cocoa Butters, humectants and protective Coconut Oil. It provides intense moisturization, extreme softening and ultra nourishment—all in a fast-absorbing formula. The new formula is mineral oil free.

Mizani Gloss Veil Shine Spray - To build in shine without greasiness or weight, Gloss Veil Shine Spray uses Mizani’s newest, silicone and preservative-free shine technology. The weightless, non-greasy formula, developed especially for curly and multi-textured hair, permits a soft finish with a high-gloss sheen. As it moisturizes, silkens and softens, it controls frizz and helps protect curly hair against environmental aggressors. Used with heat-styling tools, it delivers optimum shine every time.

Pretty Protein

As you all know I tend to shy away from harsh protein treatments, I prefer 'pretty' proteins.  Proteins are necessary to keep your hair breakage free.  Remember all moisture and no protein leaves strand all mushy and gross, but still your protein treatment doesn't have to make your hair and untouchable.  

Frederic Fekkai Protein Rx Reparative Treatment Mask is ideal for brittle, broken hair that has been weakened from coloring, relaxing, or heat styling. An exclusive soy and milk protein complex restores and reinforces hair, preventing future breakage and leaving hair stronger and more manageable.

Korres Serum Rice Proteins is a silicone-free serum protects hair from splitting during brushing, blow-drying, and hot ironing. It deeply repairs and hydrates the hair without coating the hair with a heavy, thick film like other serums. Simply glide over dry or damp hair, paying special attention to the ends.

Redken Extreme CAT Reconstructing Treatment is the easiest thing to use, just spray onto the hair and let it sit for 3-5 minutes.  I concentrate on the ends and nape area, it contains Contains patented taurine technology and cationic proteins to help reconstruct and prevent future damage without adding weight to the hair. 

Beauty Closet

If you are anything like me, you love beauty products - more specifically you love hair care products.  If I see it, I like it, I buy it (if the price is reasonable and sometimes even when the price isn't all that reasonable I still buy)!  I have a bit of an addiction, I can admit it, but I also know I'm not ready to curb my ways so all those finish it up challenges and no buy challenges are just not for me and you will not see any here.  Instead, I'm trying to find ways to house all my purchases and things.  I'm a bit crafty and enjoy do it yourself projects every now and then so I decided to build a "Beauty Closet".  

In my bedroom there is a door between my room and my brother's room that stays closed and locked.  The doorway was a total waste of space until I decide to add shelves.  I measure the length and width, took my measurements to a lumbar yard and purchased wood that would later be shelves.  I got screws and little metal pieces to hold up the shelves and headed home.  All together I spent about $30 on supplies.  Once I got home I marked up the wall, making sure the tallest of my 'products' would have a home too and started screwing in the metal pieces and placing the shelves.  I ended up with 8 shelves were I can place items, I'm in love.  Only downside... I still have a ton of things that need a home so I'm working on more DIY storage solutions.  

Make it a Sebastian Summer

Sebastian Professional’s has all the products you need to make it through this hot and  humid summer.  Before we get into it, I have a serious beef to pick with all the ladies who immediately turn up their nose at the name of big hair care companies before even trying their products, thinking that the products aren't made with their hair type in mind.  I was recently trying to tell a friend how to create two strand twists and actually have it come out right.  Her problem: she was using little to no product.  I tried to get her to use Sebastian's Whipped Creme, Whipped Cream is an ultra-light styler that nourishes and lifts curls and waves to perfection for super conditioned, air-light bounce. It creates soft, sexy shapes with a silky, shiny finish without crunch or stickiness – giving hair light curls that won’t weigh down in the heat.  You add in whipped cream to a section and then twist, the whipped cream gives your hair creates the texture on it's own but the whipped cream gives it a bit of hold and extra softness.  She wasn't hearing it, at all until I showed her the video of my two strand twist out using the product, then of course she was all over it. 

Sebastian also has products that help you maintain the life of your style.  After day one, two strand twists can start to look frizzy, add a little bit of Sebastian's Liquid Gloss  to de-frizz and polish hair.  Liquid Gloss is a high-gloss that acts as a de-frizz to polish hair for a shine-boosting finish. The hair-surfacing polisher makes static instantly invisible when used with any styler. It creates a humidity resistant shield – making your style last a bit longer.  Then if you are going out for the night and you want to add a few curls with a curling iron or really turn up the waves with a deep body wave iron, use Trilliant – a multi-faceted shimmer complex, designed to gently condition hair and provide thermal protection. You can achieve an ultra-light body and a glamorous shiny finish all while protecting hair against heat damage.  

You can find Sebastian products in a salon near you by visiting the Sebastian's site and using their salon finder.  

Shu Uemura Art of Hair Ceremony

I briefly spoke about the Shu Uemura Art of Hair Ceremonies, in my review of Zoku Salon in Summit, NJ. A few people's interest has been peaked so let me give everyone the scoop on the new salon services. The Art of Hair Ceremonies are designed to combine the simplicity and purity of Eastern beauty with the glamour of Western beauty. Shu Uemura Ceremonies are inspired by the ritualism and percision of the Japanese tea ceremony. Each ceremony begins with a warm towel and cup of green tea and includes a shiatsu-inspired scalp massage.

Shu Uemura Purifying Ceremony ($25 for 10 minutes) A clarifying treatment that cleanses and deeply purifies the hair while moisturizing and revitalizing the scalp. Choose between FUYU (with eucalyptus for an invigorating effect) and NATSU (with jasmine for a soothing effect) cleansing oils.

Shu Uemura Haircare Ceremony ($35 for 15 minutes) A made-to-measure customized treatment combining a moisturizing Depsea Base and precious Absolu oil. You choose an appropriate Depsea Base (I opted for Enriched versus Light because my hair is thick) and one of the 5 essential Absolu oils:

1. Full Shimmer - for added shine

2. Moisture Velvet - for nourishing dry hair

3. Silk Bloom - restores damage

4. Muroto Volume - Volumizing

5. Prime Plenish - Aging Hair

Complete Ceremony ($75 for 30 minutes) Combination of both the Haircare and Purifying Ceremonies.

I experienced the Complete Ceremony and it has heavenly. I skipped the green tea and opted for coffee instead. The purifying ceremony is what thoroughly relaxed me, I picked the FUYU cleansing oil because of it's scalp tingling effects. The shiatsu-inspired massage made everything even better. The haircare ceremony was next and every single strand of my hair was hand painted with a traditional geisha brush to ensure that each strand was saturated and deeply moisturized. The ceremonies are great add-ons for any service when you have the time to just relax and thoroughly enjoy being pampered.

Check out the Shu Uemura Art of Hair Website for more. 

Redken TV

Looking for a new video tutorials from professionals?  Check out Redken's new youtube channel featuring The Hair Files showing videos such as “Healthy, Shiny Hair: Start to Finish” and “Invigorate & Style with Redken For Men."  Although there are no videos featuring highly textured hair, the information shared in the videos is helpful for all hair types and who knows maybe a video for us brown honey's is in the works.  

Silkiest of All

Beautiful Black Princess with even more beautiful black hair: "Mirror Mirror on the wall who has the silkest hair of the all?"

Pretty decorative mirror: "Why of course anyone who uses Shu Uemura Art of Hair Silk Oil!"

Beautiful black princess sits at her vanity with a confused expression. Only if the princess knew about Shu Uemura Silk Oil.

Okay, okay so I'm not really good with storytelling, but anywho that's how it would go because Shu Uemura Silk Oil is the TRUTH. With one use this product has jumped into Holy Grail status, if you like Biosilk or CHI Silk Infusion (both made by the same company) you will LOVE Shu Uemura Silk Oil. Shu Uemura Silk Oil uses Camellia Oil for weightless definition and luminous shine. I use it strictly for the hair bling a.k.a. SHINE! There is a hint of Juniper fragrance, but it's a very small hint.

Shu Uemura Art of Hair Products are available at select salons across the country & I found it here but I think it's best to get it from a salon. I don't know if that site is a authorized distributor or not.

Redken Extreme

Balancing protein with moisture is a tricky yet key part of maintaining healthy and strong relaxed hair. I must admit normally, I shy away from harsh protein based products, because I never felt as though my hair truly need a hard-core protein treatment. However, relaxed hair does require some extra protein treatments here and there so I cracked and gave the Redken Extreme Collection a chance. During the process of relaxing the hair, the relaxer breaks down the proteins in the hair, afterwards it's good to rebuild them up. The key is balance because overdo it with the protein and your hair will be hard, brittle, and prone to breakage.

After my relaxer, I had the stylist wash and conditon my hair with Redken Extreme Shampoo and Conditioner and then deep condition with Extreme Rescue Force. My hair feels great. It does not feel hard or dry, yet it feels like it has a bit of added strength. If you have ever done a Ayurvedic shikakai-amla rinse, you know how your hair feels after you rinse and then use a moisturizing condition (soft but strong?) that's how my hair felt. The stylist was able to detangle my hair easily and I could feel how soft my hair felt.

All of the products in the Redken Extreme Collection feature:

3D Repair Complex
01 Proteins - internal strength

02 Ceramide - cuticle reinforcement

03 Natural Lipids - protective resurfacing

Redken’s exclusive Interbond Conditioning System delivers a unique 3D Repair Complex of proteins, ceramide and lipids to help provide internal strength, cuticle reinforcement and protective resurfacing.

The only problem you might have is choosing a conditioner, the Extreme Collection has a regular conditioner, CAT Protein Reconstructing Treatment, Extreme Deep Fuel Conditioning treatments in ampules, and Extreme Rescue Force. Use the Redken Salon finder for a location near you to purchase these products.

Psst! Look!

Guess what guys?!? Yours truly was featured on Dr. Miracle's Blog! Go check me out.

Thanks!

What is Natural?

I am so glad that Afrobella brought up the topic of 'what is natural' with her “Define Your Natural” post. I was seriously debating writing about the way we define natural hair especially after watching the trailer for the re-launch of The Coil Review. In the trailer, relaxed hair is displayed as boring hair that everyone has and how natural hair stands out in a world of relaxed heads. However, I can’t get the image of the lady with the beautiful fiery red locs out of my head. Because, although her hair isn’t relaxed it is still chemically treated just like my relaxed hair, the difference is only that I change the texture while she changes the color. How are we any different? We see something about our hair that we would like to change and turn to chemicals to do so, yet she is deemed natural while I am not. I’m fine with that, I’m proud of my relaxed hair and this post will not be about bashing one or the other, so please if that’s what you intend to do in the comments section please note your comment will not be published. Now that that has been said let’s move right along, to the big question: “has the term natural been narrowed to only include texture?”

Afrobella limits her definition of natural to texture alone; saying natural is “an unaltered hair texture. It means embracing your kinks and coils as they are, without using heat or chemicals to change the way your hair grows out of your head.” The most interesting part of her definition is the part about heat, “without using heat or chemicals to change the way your hair grows out of your head.” I would have never even though to include heat in my definition, but now that it has been brought up, I totally agree with the heat issue. Not only because I see going natural as a way to stop all of the damage that can be caused by improper application of relaxers and the inability to properly care for relaxed hair, but because some people have said that over use of heat it can also eventually change the hair texture (I don’t know if that’s true or not) but still if it has the potential to change the texture, it disqualifies you from being a true natural, right? Still, here I go fence sitting again, how much heat is too much. Can you use heat to straighten for special occasions and return to rockin’ your fro without having your natural crown knocked down? I say, Sure! Isn’t that another reason why so many women go natural, for the versatility? Bone straight one day then wildly coily the next?

And finally, the great color debate. Hair color is a chemical process, hints why when relaxed heads have color they are considered double processed. Now tell me, can someone with a natural texture and the chemical process of coloring be natural? Now while I may be sitting on the fence when it comes to heat, I feel that coloring the hair knocks off the natural crown. Chemical treatments, whether it is a relaxer or a coloring process, are not natural. Which finally leads us to my definition of natural, natural hair is hair that has is unaltered by chemical processes. Virgin natural hair is free of all chemicals including color and has never been touched by direct heat to alter the texture or curl pattern. How’s that? Two separate levels of natural to address all the common questions and issues...works for me.

Get Gorgeous with Tippi Shorter

I had the pleasure of meeting celebrity hairstylists, Tippi Shorter and Dana of Dana's Loft, and beauty and fashion entrepreneur Lydia Coleman at a Dr. Miracle's event in NYC. Check out the picture of us and then check out Get Gorgeous Hair, Tippi and Lydia's business venture that is bringing gorgeous hair to all women.

Review: Silk Elements Mega Cholesterol Conditioning Treatment

Here's the deal, when I hear about great conditioners of course I want to try them out. You too right? Alright, so I normally wouldn't have even given this Silk Elements Mega Cholesterol Conditioning Treatment the time of day. But I kept hearing people rave about this conditioner so I said okay I'll bite. Then, it was on sale at Sally's Beauty Supply store for a reasonable price, plus the jar is large I figured it was a good deal if it was as good as people say.

Product Details: Mega Cholesterol is an intensive conditioning treatment specially formulated with Panthenol Pro-Vitamin B5. This unique formula helps strengthen, moisturize and protect against split ends while detangling dry, damaged hair.
*Infused with silk protein, moisturizers and Panthenol Pro-Vitamin B5
*Strengthens weak hair
*Leaves hair soft and silky to the souch
*Repair damaged and over-processed hair
*Rehydrates dry, brittle hair
*Restores moisture
*Improves elasticity
*Adds body

AHS Product Review: This conditioning treatment is very very thick and creamy. You know I love a thick and creamy conditioner, but this conditioner falls flat. It did nothing for my hair, it wasn't especially soft or manageable after use. I also found that it was harder to rinse out than other conditioners and it scent could also use some work. This conditioner goes onto my skip it list and proves you can't always believe the hype, a product that works great for someone else might do absolutely nothing for you.

Travel Terax

Terax has a brand new travel kit. Terax has taken their top sellers and made them TSA approved, plus Terax understands that women like love to use lots of conditioner so the travel kit includes two tubes of Terax Crema. Also included in the kit: Terax Life Drops (a protein packed conditioner) and Miele (a sulfate free shampoo that is ultrahydrating). This travel kit is a relaxed head's (like me) dream. You have a sulfate free shampoo, plus two types of conditioners. One is moisturizing and the other is protein based so you can ensure proper moisture vs. protein balance while away from home... all in one kit! These kits are available at fine salons nationwide for just $24

Update: Relaxer Time

I'm just checking in to let you guys know what's up with my hair. Currently, I'm only 9 weeks post relaxer, but I have the urge to relax again. I have plenty of new growth and my edges are in need of a relaxer. I'm not sure if my hair is just growing fast this time or if the last relaxer I used just didn't cut it, because at 9 weeks I'm still usually okay. Anyway, I plan on relaxing tomorrow morning if I can get myself up early to go get it done. I'm not in the mood to do it myself, but I will be bringing along the Redken Extreme collection which is a protein rich collection for the salon to use after my relaxer. I will get a rollerset and I plan on skipping the hot blow out portion, after I fresh relaxer I shouldn't even need it.

Swimming and Black Hair

Are you like a lot of black women I know who avoid pools and beaches like the plague because they do not want to damage their hair? If so, stop missing out! Swimming is one of my favorite things to do, whether I'm just playing around in the pool or at the beach or swimming laps to stay in shape. Since I do relax my hair, it falls into the category of chemically treated which makes it even more susceptible to damage. Instead, of panicking and skipping pools and beaches altogether I just use a few tips and tricks to keep my hair healthy.

Avoid drying hair products - Sulfate filled shampoos instead pick sulfate free verisons like L'Oreal EverPure shampoos.

Avoid heat styling - When you are frequently planning on swimming avoid heat styling your hair. Air dry instead, I know lot's of people have issues with airdrying but the best way to do it is detangle hair in the shower while the conditioner is in. Once your hair is detangled rinse the rest of the conditioner out, then use a leave-in spray and moisturizing creme. I like to apply a little bit of gel around my edges and tie them down with a scarf for the first few hours. Once it's about 70% dry I put my hair into a bun.

Get it OUT - never let chlorine or beach water just sit in your hair, always get it out as soon as you are done, whether you just rinse with water or shampoo with a gentle formula. When I'm on the beach I just use water, once I rinse out all the salt water I run conditioner or spray a conditioning spray into my hair.

Condition, Condition, CONDITION - I don't know how else to say it, but conditioning your hair regularly is one of the best things you can do for your hair. If you are at the beach take advantage of the nice warm rays from the sun, it will make your conditioning experience extra deep. Just don't forget to rinse out the salt water before applying your conditioner.

P.S. Yup, that's me in the photo... last summer in Miami rocking the big hair look. I just refused to be bothered with heat styling on vacation!

Is a Short Hairstyle Right for You?

Now with Halle Berry returning to her signature short 'do everyone will be thinking "is a short hairstyle right for me?" Answer: It might be if you have delicate features like TotalBeauty.com reader Elie, see how Total Beauty transformed her style and see how to make this easy to style short hairstyle and sexy makeup look work for you.

See makeover

Qhemet Biologics Sale

Thinking of going natural? Clutch Magazine ranked Qhemet Biologics Amla & Olive Heavy Cream the #1 product for transitioning hair! Plus, Qhemet Biologics is having a 24 hour sale! On all orders over $34.00 you will get 20% off just by entering NATURE at checkout.

Salon Review: Bangz

I attended an event for press to show off the brand new location for Bangz Salon.

The Rundown:

Bangz Salon

23 South Fullerton

Montclair, NJ 07042

(973) 746-8426
http://bangz.net

First Impressions:

You pull up to a 19th-century Masonic Temple it's over 9,000 square feet and features stained glass windows and vaulted ceilings, exactly what you expect for a Masonic Temple. The only downside is the teeny tiny park lot, the salon is so large and Bangz is a popular salon so I know finding a spot in the lot will be a headache. and an entire floor dedicated to spa services.

Services Received:

After I toured the entire salon, I went to the basement which is dedicated to spa services only where I received a pedicure. The whole experience was very relaxing and high quality brands were used, ranging from CND to Essie. The pedicurist was very professional and expertly polished my nails. I'm used to getting my pedicures in a nail salon over a spa like setting so I was surprised that it took about a hour, maybe even longer. Also, I was shocked to learn that there is no nail dryers for your feet. Meaning... I had to wait around for another 15-20 minutes waiting for my toes to dry. That's okay in the summer because usually you have on flip flops anyway, but what about the winter when it's cold and the ground is covered in snow? You have to wait around (where I don't know, because there isn't a loungey area to wait while your toes dry) until you can put real shoes on.

I will not be back for a pedicure or manicure, but I will be trying out some of the other spa services because the space is posh. Plus, I know the hairstylists are amazing and where else can you get your hair dried while sitting on a church pew? Above all else you MUST check out the brand new location, it's the most unique looking salon/spa that I've seen in a long time.

Foundation for your Hair

Just when I thought I couldn't possibly add another product to my hair styling regimen, Shu Uemura hit me with Depsea Hair Foundations. I know, I know, hair foundation? That is the exact same response I had, what the heck am I going to do with this and I can't possibly need it. But, seriously are even half of your hair care purchases because you need the item? Didn't think so.

Shu Uemura Depsea Hair Foundations are supposed to refine the hair fiber, creating the ideal base for styling. They are a lightweight mist that gently smoothes the cuticle of your hair, delivering optimum hydration and enhancing the performance of styling products. When I spray on a little bit after washing and conditioning my hair, the hair foundation is like my leave-in spray, it softens up my hair and acts as a bit of a detangler as well. Plus, it has a very light scent of honeysuckle and juniper.

Shu Uemura Hair Foundations are available in three different formulations:

Depsea Moisture Foundation for normal to dry, dehydrated hair

Depsea Smoothing Foundation for coarse, unruly hair

Depsea Repair Foundation for damaged, sensitized hair

Interesting fact about the product: it actually contains deep sea water that has been extracted from 200m beneath the sea.

Shu Uemura products are available at select exclusive salons and at the three Shu Uemura flagship boutiques. What to purchase online? Sign up for exclusive info about when the website is launched, here.

Best & Worst Highlights by Hair Type

Celebrities like Jennifer Aniston and Beyonce should be your hair color inspiration, but Lindsay Lohan, not so much

Considering highlights or wondering what went wrong with yours? Let these celebrities guide you towards the best (and away from the worst) highlights for your hair type. See hairstyles