This year National Natural Hair Day took place on Saturday, May 19th. In cities across the country, naturalistas gathered to talk hair, network, and gain information about how to care for natural textures.

I attended the “Spring Is In the Hair,” meet-up  hosted by Natasha Gaspard of My Mane Moves and Imani Dawson of A Tribe Called Curl at The Rock Shop in Park Slope, Brooklyn.

The event location was only a few blocks from my apartment so there was no excuse not to attend the soiree celebrating our curls, coils, kinks, and waves.

At the event, we learned tips from Karen’s Body Beautiful and super cute styling techniques from sought-after stylist Diane Bailey of Tendrils Hair Spa in Fort Greene, Brooklyn. Plus, there were plenty of fun interactive games and giveaways throughout the afternoon. To top it off, each attendee walked away with a gift bag filled with full-size hair, bath, and body products.

Have you ever attended a natural hair event? If not, would you? 

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Now that the natural hair revolution is underway, more women are making the decision to ditch relaxers and embrace their curlier textures. However, that journey isn’t always easy. Transitioning can be a tough task to take on for someone unequipped with the proper hair care knowledge needed to successfully go au naturel.

Carol’s Daughter’s 3-Step Transitioning Kit was created to help make that leap from silky straight strands to curls, kinks or coils a lot smoother.

They’ve identified product build-up, scarred scalp, and demarcation breakage as the three main problems many women face when transitioning and formulated products to serve as solutions. The trio of products includes: Purifying Low-Poo Cleanser (makes it easy to detangle without stripping hair of its moisture), Renewing Scalp Spray (exfoliates the scalp), and Restoring Anti-Breakage Treatment (strengthens demarcation points). Plus, the products are packed with natural ingredients such as sugarcane, olive oil, coconut, and soy protein to promote healthy hair transitions.

Had this kit been around a few years ago, it would’ve saved me from emotional stress and helped me tackle my once tortured tresses with ease.

Are you currently transitioning? If so, what has been your experience?

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For me, having clear and even skin is the epitome of outward beauty. That’s why countless facial products, including Ambi’s Skincare Regimen clutter my bathroom shelf in an attempt to achieve ultimate beauty bliss. Oh and because I am a complete cosmetic junkie.

While I’ve tried Ambi in the past, I was always lured by the latest new product that I never stuck with it long enough to see just how awesome it works.

After having several months of blemish-free skin, my picture-perfect journey abruptly ended and the breakouts returned.

Being the experts in skincare for us brown-skinned beauties, I turned to the Ambi Skincare Regimen: Even and Clear Foaming Cleanser, Even and Clear Daily Moisturizer, and Fade Cream for some much-needed help. I used the trio of products consistently for three weeks and saw a remarkable difference.

The foam wash kept my face clean and balanced by unclogging pores and combatting excessive oil in an effort to prevent new breakouts. Plus, it didn’t leave my skin feeling tingly or irritated like other brands I’ve used in the past. I don’t know about you, but there’s just something fun about slathering foam on your face.

However, using the moisturizer was a initially a bit of a challenge. I was so used to applying one of my tried and true formulas that I was reluctant to stop, but resisted in order to use the entire Ambi system. It was a bit thicker than my usual go-to, but it still properly moisturized my skin.

As disappointed as I was that I had to reach for a fade cream to lighten those dreaded dark marks, I was delighted by the results. The hyper-pigmentation spots haven’t completely disappeared, but the darkness has definitely diminished. That’s a huge coup considering I haven’t been using it for that long.

I’m certain that with continued use of Ambi, my once radiant skin will resurface better than ever!

The experts in skin of color, brings you a skin care regimen to help you achieve flawless skin. Use AMBI®’s Even and Clear Foaming Cleanser to help clear breakouts and reduce dark marks. Follow with Even & Clear Daily Moisturizer, so skin will look even and smooth. And AMBI®’s #1rated Fade Cream, diminishes dark spots and discoloration, for a beautiful and natural skin tone.
Disclosure: Compensation was provided by AMBI® via Glam Media. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of AMBI®.

Have you tried Ambi products? If so, what was your experience?

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As if Kohl’s couldn’t get any better, ELLE Cosmetics, a chic new makeup line will be sold exclusively at the store.

Comprised of various complementary shades for eyes, lips, and face, ELLE Cosmetics brings a fresh and updated feel to the makeup offered at the chain. Inspired by runway looks, the line includes products in ultra-sleek packaging that reflect the current fashion trends.

I’m totally obsessed with the creamy, yet shimmery lip glosses that glide on smoothly without leaving lips sticky or gooey.

From electrifying neon polishes to straight-from-the-beach bronzers, the collection boasts quality items that will help make your beauty radiate.

Also, if you haven’t already purchased your mom a gift for Mother’s Day (I’m the queen of procrastination too), stop by Kohl’s and instantly update her makeup bag with a few of these goodies!

What makeup trend are you loving this spring?

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While there were many head-turning looks at last night’s Met Gala, Rihanna really got tongues wagging. Her unique updo raised eye-brows in the blogosphere, but I thought the multi-bun look complemented her crocodile Tom Ford gown and fit her cutting-edge vibe.

Celebrity stylist, Ursula Stephens who styled the pop diva for fashion’s big night says that the style was “inspired by an illustrated cartoon character.”

If you’re eager to emulate the Barbadian beauty’s eye-catching updo, follow Stephens’ tips below:

Start by sectioning the hair into three ponytails:

• One at the front of the head, slightly off to the side 
• One at the crown of the head, slightly off to the opposite side 
• The last one at the nape of the neck, slightly off to the same side as the section at the front of the head 
• For each ponytail, twist from the end and wrap around itself into a loose bun, pinning to secure and gently tugging on pieces to achieve an “undone” look. 
• Hold the look in place with Motions Light Hold Working Spritz (SRP: $3.99; most mass retailers)

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