Folica.com is All New

Folica.com launched it's new website.  The design is much easier to navigate, it gives shoppers the chance to see reviews before they purchase, create a review after they've purchased, and provides hair styling tips.  The site is much more than just a flat iron store, you can head there to read see photos of other women celebrating their hair! 

Right now just in time for the launch Folica.com is having a sales and providing discounts for you! 

The BEST offer?!?  10% off any product in their 10 top list.

 

Poolside Hair Favorites: Edition 1

I'm the girl by the pool with the huge sunglasses, killer caribbean like tan (if I must say so myself), and a bag full of hair products next to my lounger!  If you need a spray, lotion, or gel I have you covered.  I protect my skin and my hair at all times when I'm lounging by the pool, it might look like all fun and games but I'm serious about protecting myself.  Skin cancer is not just for white folks and damaged hair is never a good look.

Here are a few of my favorite hair items to keep on hand:

Amazon.com for $17.38

Redken Color Extend Sun - Even though my hair isn't exactly color treated, I love the fact that this product contains Mango Oil to help moisturize my hair.

Federic Fekkai Marine Summer Hair Beachcomber Leave-In, $22.95 Amazon.com

Fekkai Marine Summer Hair Beachcomber Leave-in - I spritz this on when I'm planning on hitting the water again in a while.  It adds moisture to my hair and it feels renewed after using just a little bit.  You know how you're hair can feel dry after getting out of the water, even after rinsing?  Well this is the solution to that problem. 

Available from Amazon for $11.25

Biolage Thermal-Active Repair Cream - Even though this is a thermal product, meaning it's mean to be used with heat tools what's hotter than the sun?  This product gets a spot in my bag because it features Cera Heat Technology which is a restorative blend of ceramide and natural oils.  I save this product to use once I'm done with the pool and I'm just going to be laying out because it does provide a light hold.

Joi's on Madame Noire

Hey Ladies!  Guess what?  5 of my hair tips for this summer were featured on Madame Noire!  Do me a favor, head over and check them out!  Leave a comment if you are so inclinded, Thanks! 

More about Madame Noire:  Madame Noire is a passionate, cutting-edge web publication geared towards African-American women. The publication's mission is to unite black women at various stages of their lives, around a common aspiration for better, more fulfilling lifestyles. 

Thanks again guys!  You're the best. 

Rock the Look: Monica at the 2010 BET Awards

While I don't usually tune into anything on BET, I always like to see what the stars looked like at any awards show and this was no different.  Monica's short do was on point thanks to Motion’s Celebrity Hairstylist, Ursula Stephen. 

Step 1: Relax the sides and back of hair with Motions Silkening Shine Relaxer System to give hair the foundation for great style. This is the first at-home relaxer kit that reduces breakage by up to 85% and moisturizes in each step.

Step 2: Then, wash and mold hair with Motions Foaming Wrap Lotion – it holds hair in place and keeps curls looking fresh!
Step 3: Curl small sections of hair with a small flat iron while randomly curling pieces in the OPPOSITE direction of the rest of the hair, allowing hair to “stand up.” This showcases the shape of the cut and creates beautiful texture.
Step 4: Add shine to hair by massaging a dollop of Motions Shine Enhancing Pomade in hands and rubbing through hair. The Pomade provides hold while shaping hair to create beautiful curls!
Step 5: Finally, to keep hair in place all day - finish the look with Motions Light Hold Working Spritz.

& yes!  Motions got a makeover!  Check out the new packaging below.

Beauty Break: Sephora makes Sun Safety Easy

SEPHORA COLLECTION Sephora Sun Safety Kit ($95 Value) Sephora Sun Safety Kit

Every year Sephora and The Skin Cancer Foundation rounds up the best sun protections products availabe to create the Sephora Sun Safety Kit. For just $25.00 the Sephora Sun Safety Kit has got you covered and 100% of the net profits will benefit The Skin Cancer Foundation.


Why I love it: As a brown girl finding a sunblock that doesn't make me look like I'm radioactive is a hard feat. Either I have a radioactive purple tint or I look like a stand in for HBO's True Blood. All the sun safety products, including eye cream and lip balm, and self tanner come in an adorable pink clutch too!

Keep Reading to find out what brands are included:

Sephora’s 2010 Sun Safety Kit includes:

Pantene Clarifies Conditioner Myths

While at the Pantene Pro-V breakfast the conditioner stories just kept pouring out.  Like most of  you, the women at the breakfast confessed that we love to leave our conditioner on long.  The directions say let sit 5-10 minutes?  We leave it on for at least 30 minutes with heat and sometimes even overnight, with the idea that if 5-10 minutes is good well 1 hour plus heat is even better.  Well guess what ladies?  Pantene Scientist Jeni Thomas says it's not true.  If the conditioner is not formulated to be heat-activated then adding heat is just a waste of time and enegry.  Another big mistake?  Using too much conditioner.  The directions say a dime sized amount?  We take fists full and glop it on our hair.  Guess what?  We are wasting product.  Celebrity stylist and Pantene user, Tippi Shorter says we only need enough conditioner to coat our strands and a dollar coin sized amount should do the trick, because remember you don't need to condition your scalp, in fact Tippi warns against it. 

Product tip:  The newest Pantene products are specifically tailored to different hair types.  Just because you are  a black woman doesn't mean Relaxed & Naturals is for you!  Keep your eyes peeled for more posts on more Pantene News.

Lifestyle Leak: Meyer Lemon Tree

Ever since moving out on my own I have space for things that I never had space for before.  I've always loved plants and the challenge of trying to keep plants thriving but before now I never had the space to keep them. 

One of the first plants I had to grab was a Meyer Lemon Tree.  I knew I wanted something that would last and last, but I also wanted something very unique, so the lemon tree was the perfect option.  Since Meyer Lemon Trees can be grown indoors or outside on balconies, it was a match made in heaven.  For now my lemon tree has a home on my balcony since the weather is nice, but during the winter months it will live inside right by the window since it loves full sun. 

The tiny white flowers smell amazing and seem to just keep on blooming. 

Pantene Breakfast

Yesterday I attended a breakfast hosted by Pantene to discuss how the launch of their revamped product line can benefit for African American women as well as other races.  On board to help educate us regarding the new ingredients and how they interact with hair was Pantene Scientist Dr. Jeni Thomas and to help us understand how these products can be used to style all different hair types Pantene brought along Celebrity Stylist Tippi Shorter.   

Stay tuned for more information regarding the new products!

Braid-Out How To

A Braid-Out is a great way to wear your hair when you are looking to minimize the use of heat or want to change up your texture.  I'll show you how I do my quick braid-outs using pictures.  

 

1. Start with freshly co-washed hair and make three large braids on each side of your head. 

2.  I use a cold rod roller to create curl at the end of each braid

3.  Allow hair to dry thoroughly, I usually do this overnight while sleeping.

4. Take out braids, but don't detangle yet.

5. Grab each large piece and detangle carefully using fingers only. Repeat until you achieve your desired look. 

Typically, I don't wear my Braid-outs totally loose.  I usually throw on a headband and clip the ends up. 

Super Growth Mix Update

Here is my updated for this post, The Super Growth Mix Video.  This time around I decided not to make a video.  Anywho, I've totally dropped the Mega-Tek from the mix, just leaving the Jamaican Black Castor Oil as the sole ingredient and I'm getting the same results.  My scalp just seems to be immune against Mega-Tek, while others use it and see amazing amount of growth (like a whole inch in one month). 

I have been oiling my scalp (especially the nape area) with JBCO at least two times a week and guess what?  My nape that was once made up of just taco meat, is now about 3 inches long!  But don't expect to see any pics of that area but it's still completely unpresentable!

Here is exactly what I've been doing with my nape:
1. Using JBCO at least two times a week on the scalp only
2. Moisturizing the area two sometimes three times a day with Wave Nouveau
3. Wearing thick headbands that cover the majority of that area. 

Infusium 23 Moisture Replenisher Collection

I'm sure during you quest of the perfect hair care items, you've tried Infusium 23 at some point.  The brand is probably best known for the great leave-in's but now they have expanded to include new collections that focus on specific hair issues.  

Infusium 23 Frizz Controller Collection - includes shampoo, conditioner and leave-in treatment to tame and smooth, frizz-prone, unruly locks, and infuse the hair cuticle to provide softness, manageability and shine.  

Infusium 23 Volume Builder Collection - Shampoo and conditioner set helps boost and enliven the most flat, unresponsive hair while nourishing hair from root to tip.

Infusium 23 Moisture Replenisher Collection - shampoo, conditioner and leave-in treatment provides deep conditioning and protects against dryness and breakage to leave hair soft and healthy, yet is light enough to use daily. 

Plus, Infusium 23 Renew and Repair Collection - Ideal for hair that is damaged from chemicals, heat and overexposure to the elements, treats hair to restore healthy texture and strengthen against future damage.  This is the collection I tried, since my hair is relaxed I always lend towards products that cater towards chemically treated hair.   

Keep reading to find out what I thought! 

Beauty Break: Estee Lauder Pure Color Gloss

Estee Lauder is launching Pure Color Gloss - A collection of 34 seductive shades in 3 brilliant finishes AND a custom collection by world-renowned makeup artist and Estée Lauder Creative Makeup Director Tom Pecheux. The collection features our exclusive True Vision™ Technology that wraps pigments in a crystal-like coating to provide intense, brilliant color and shine to lips.
The limited edition Pure Color Gloss Custom Color Collection by Tom Pecheux features 6 high-performing shades - his secret weapon for creating runway looks from avant-guard to natural femininity and will be available exclusively at Nordstrom stores nationwide and www.nordstrom.com beginning mid-June 2010. 

Big Volume seen at Chris Benz Resort 2011 Show

Volume is making a comeback! John Ruidant, Redken Session Stylist, created and styled voluminous hair to compliment the Chris Benz Resort 2011 collection last week in New York City. This collection is very modern and accessible for the sophisticated woman who is looking to throw on something for breakfast by the pool at her resort. Taking inspiration from Pat Nixon and the 1950s, John fashioned a very voluminous ‘Jackie O’ hairstyle. The classic ‘do is done, but not overly done and structured.


Rock the Look:

Step 1: Apply Redken Body Full Amplifier at the hairline for texture and blow dry in the product with a mason brush.


Step 2: Split the head in half starting at the name and continuing in sections about one inch thick spraying hot sets 22 thermal setting mist on each piece before curling with a 1½ inch curling iron.


Step 3: Pin each curl to the head to set.


Step 4: Finish out the look by pulling hair back into a looped pony tail and secure ends by pinning under the nape of the neck to create the bob


Step 5: Tease the hair and apply forceful 23 super strength finishing spray.

Lifestyle Leak: Catherine Malandrino Sample Sale

Attn: Fashionable NYC Gals, Catherine Malandrino is having a sample sale!  You'll want to hit this up because designer shorts are $45 (reg. $245), dresses are $145 (reg. $495-$695), and tops are $95 (reg. $325).  As with all sample sales, bring cash, wear flats and clothes that are easily removed for quick try-ons! 

The sale goes down June 21-23. Mon., 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Tues. & Wed., 8 a.m.-8 p.m.
at 123 W. 18th St., between Sixth & Seventh Aves.

Bridal Hair Trend: French Pleat

The ultra lavish Kenneth Pool put on a finale to the trifecta of shows that really wowed the crowd. To compliment the detailed and intricate beading and fabrics of the Pool designs, Redken Session Stylist Giovanni Giuntoli created a classic French pleat, but updated with slight texture and extra height at the crown of the head.

To create, dry hair was prepped with Redken touch control 05 volumizing texture whip and blow-dried through for added volume. Next, Giuntoli blow-dryed the rest of the hair towards the back of the head and gathered into a low ponytail at the nape of the neck. To create the pleat, he twisted the hair in upon itself as he moved up to the crown of the head securing along with hair pins. To tuck the ends of the tail in, Giuntoli recommends curling the ends with a one-inch curling iron so they will easily tuck into the twist. Place the end pieces in and pin with hair pins so none of the ends can be seen. To finish spritz with vinyl glam 02 mega shine spray for shine.

Lifestyle Leak: Burt's Bees x Kashi

Natural Lifestyle Leaders Make Local Stop on Cross-Country Tour, Inspiring Community Members to Take Little Steps towards a Healthier Life! 


Something to do this weekend! Kashi, the premier natural foods and lifestyle company, kicks off/continues its fifth annual 2010 Day of Change™ tour with Burt’s Bees, leading maker of natural body care products, at the Scarsdale Art Festival on June 18.


The tour, featuring more than 50 unique Day of Change events in over 17 cities across the U.S. through September, encourages individuals to take small steps to achieve a well-rounded, healthy lifestyle – learning about the importance of what goes in and on our bodies, finding joy in life, naturally, and how to care for the planet. The Day of Change event features four tents offering interactive exhibits, along with natural goodies from Kashi and Burt’s Bees.

WHO: Kashi and Burt’s Bees


WHAT: Sample a variety of Kashi’s nutritious and delicious foods!
              Refresh with face, lip, oral and body care products from Burt’s Bees!
              Participate in interactive classes and activities that bring natural living to life!
 
WHERE: Scarsdale Art Festival
                 Village of Scarsdale - Scarsdale, NY
                 Located in central Westchester County, NY

WHEN: Friday, June18th - Sunday, June 20th

P.S. If you see me there say HI!

Protective Style seen at Cynthia Rowley Resort 2011 Show

For her sophisticate-on-seaside-holiday collection, Cynthia Rowley took her ‘show on the road’ yesterday in New York City, bringing the ‘presentation to the people’ garnering big buzz and excitement by tourists and fashionistas. To compliment her collection of denim and chiffon patchwork, bold geometric prints, and bright metallic fabrics, Cynthia turned to Rodney Cutler of Cutler/Redken salon, for a remarkable hairstyle to complement each of the looks on the 9 models.
Cutler fashioned a trendy texturized top knot, loose enough to look like she woke up at her suite and styled her hair up to lounge at the pool.
 
Here is a step-by-step to achieve on your own!
 
Cynthia Rowley Top Knot How to:


1. Start by applying Redken spray starch 15 versatile ironing spray on damp hair, follow by blow-drying the hair using a flat brush in an upward direction to get the roots moving away from the hairline.


2. To create your ponytail, apply quick dry 18 instant finishing spray as you are brushing the pre dried hair up into a high-top ponytail.


3. Create a high-top ponytail that is clean but not slick allowing some of the texture in the hair to be visible.


4. From the ponytail, twist tightly into a high knot pinning as you get to the base and allowing the ends of the ponytail to poke out. This is to give the appearance of a do it yourself homemade look.


5. Finally secure the finished style with quick dry 18 instant finishing spray.

Living Proof Discount

Living Proof is introducing a Refer-A-Friend program — rewarding customers for sharing their love of Living Proof with friends & family!

Every Living Proof fan that invites three people to make a purchase on LivingProof.com before July 5th gets a $48 credit. That is the equivalent of a full size No Frizz shampoo and conditioners or two full size No Frizz styling products, no purchase necessary. In addition, every person referred gets 20% off their first order. Everyone wins!

Fall Winter 2010 Hair Color Trends

When temperatures drop this Fall/Winter, haircolors will stay warm with dark chocolate brunettes, deep mahogany redheads and golden blondes. Tracey Cunningham, Redken Creative Consultant for Color has the latest in Fall haircolor trends and professional haircolor products to achieve these trends and get the hottest looks of the season.
“It’s easy to update your look from summer to fall,” explains Cunningham. “I warm my clients’ shades up in the Fall/Winter season with brilliant copper-red shades which is why I love Redken’s new Color Fusion Rubilane Collection. It creates the perfect sophisticated and modern copper-red shades.

Keep reading for the Fall/Winter 2010 Hair Color Trends for Blondes, Brunettes, and Redheads! 

Bridal Hair Trend: Undone Chignon

When it comes to bridal hair, “Balance is key to everything,” says Redken Session Stylist Giovanni Giuntoli. “Just because a dress is simple or the gown is elaborate doesn't necessarily mean the hair has to be the exact same feel. Big gowns can work with simple hair and vice versa.”

The undone chignon at Christos put a playful spin on the classic bun,” remarked Giuntoli. To create, Giuntoli created a ponytail in the back of the head and prepped with Style Connection wool shake 08 gel-slush texturizer. Then, using a large barrel iron, he created a slight ‘bend’ in the hair by wrapping large pieces around the iron. Once hair was finished, he gathered into a chignon. “Make sure to pin as you swirl the ponytail around itself into the bun but leave a 1-2 inch section out of the updo.” Says Giuntoli, “This really puts a modern touch on the otherwise simple style.” To secure entire look, use a hairspray like headplay 12 pliable working spray to secure fly away without making the updo too shiny or sticky.

Ultimate Curl Tool: T3 Twirl Curling Iron

Starting Today, June 16th for a limited time, buy a T3 Twirl curling iron at Bloomingdale’s and receive a free bottle of T3 + Orlando Pita Elevate Heat Seeking Iron Volumizer!

Watch the T3 Twirl in action! 



Yes, I have one and I LOVE it.  Full review coming soon!

Curling Asian Hair

With the second season premiere June 6th, Lifetime's Drop Dead Diva is a fan favorite on one of the most popular networks for women today. Celebrated comedian and actress Margaret Cho plays the outspoken and funny legal assistant Teri Lee, who is the right hand of lead character, Jane Bingum.

All my friends of Asian decent complain that their hair will not hold a curl, for me I just can't fathom not being able to rock a curly 'do every now and then, but Series Hairstylist Richard Boggs reveals his insider trips and tricks on how to any hair "drop dead" gorgeous with White Sands Haircare.

1. Shampoo and condition hair with White Sands Vegan Moisturizing Shampoo and Conditioner to thoroughly cleanse, while infusing a vital moisture balance back into each strand.

2. Apply a generous amount of White Sands Curl Up in Silk Mousse from the scalp to the ends of the hair shaft.

"I always blow dry Margaret with her head bent forward to gain maximum fullness and to obtain complete dryness," reveals Boggs.

3. Section off 1-inch partings starting at the nape area and spray entire head with White Sands Liquid Texture Firm Hold.

"This thermal protectant is our secret to keep styles in place on set even after a long day of shooting. Plus, the hair has an amazing glass like sheen!"

4. With these 1-inch sections prepped for hold and shine, use a large barrel curling iron, utilizing the Marcel styling technique from roots to end.

Tip: Want to master Marcel in a flash? Try the new White Sands Curling Iron which fuses Marcel and Spring into one tool. This innovative Curling Iron makes it easy to show off your hairstyling talents with its rotating "barrel". Since the barrel rotates rather than the handle, the power of beautiful Marcel waves is at your finger tips!

5. "After curling and then sending her to makeup, I finger brush out for a soft, sexy, wavy style," says Boggs.

Mist style with White Sands Infinity Finishing Spray for a flexible finish that repels humidity and the heat from the set lights, while providing a long lasting style: a must on set!