Beauty

New Hair Product Launch: SoftSheen-Carson Hydra Steam Moisturizing System

August 4, 2014

Last week I had the pleasure of attending a press breakfast hosted by SoftSheen-Carson to celebrate the launch of its latest Professional Hair Care Treatment: Hydra Steam Moisturizing System, at the L’Oreal headquarters here in New York City.

Johnny Wright, SoftSheen-Carson Artistic Style Director and stylist to none other than the First Lady Michelle Obama, gave us bloggers and editors a detailed overview of the line as we munched on scrumptious egg pies and sipped the event’s signature blueberry smoothies.

Johnny Wright, SoftSheen-Carson Artistic Style Director and celebrity stylist, telling attendees about the benefits of using the Hydra Steam System.

Created for all hair types, this system, which consists of six products is especially great for us naturalistas. Thanks to its revolutionary steam-activated technology that’s infused with Aloe Vera, it seals in moisture that our tresses crave. In addition to intense hydration, the line promotes curl definition, combats frizz and prevents breakage.

SoftSheen-Carson Hydra System Moisturizing System includes: Sulfate-Free Cleanser, Steam Masque, Curl Designing Cream, Refining Coil Cream, Moisturizing Sealing Spray and Finishing Oil is available at Sally’s Beauty, prices start at $12.99

“Steam treatments hydrate hair 5 times more effectively than using a conditioner alone. They infuse moisture to hair and gently open hair cuticles to allow conditioners to penetrate deeper,” says Wright.

Obviously since the line is brand new, none of us in attendance had tried it, but we were able to see the results on two beautiful models with different hair textures, one of whom was the thrifty fashionista, Afroista (I’m sure you guys are following her on Instagram. If you aren’t, you should be!). The model on the left has a tighter curl pattern similar to my own. Therefore, Wright used the Refining Coil Cream because it softens and provides low hold, as opposed to looser curl patterns that require more hold such as the model’s on the right. For her, Wright used the Curl Designing Cream, which helps define and elongate curls.

Models (Afroista is on the right) showcasing their Hydra Steam System-treated hair.

With the word “steam” in the name, it’s pretty clear that a hair steamer is encouraged for this particular treatment. I honestly have never used a steamer before, but was happy to learn that I can easily replicate the effect of one by using a conditioning cap or steaming hot towel. Although this product line is designed for professional use, it can still be easily used at home too.

I can’t wait to test this line because my hair is beyond dry and brittle. Plus, I’m still suffering from post-partum breakage since having my son last fall. Hopefully, the Hydra System will be just what my parched locks need.

*FUN FACT: Johnny Wright divulged that FLOTUS is in fact natural and he’s in the process of convincing her to wear her natural curls soon!

Do you use steam treatments? How do you keep your hair hydrated?

Category: Beauty, Hair | 6 Comments

Product Review: CurlyKids Hair Care Line

July 22, 2014

We are witnessing a natural hair revolution.

For the first time in decades, we BGs are embracing and proudly flaunting our natural hair textures in droves. But, the best part of this newfound self-acceptance is that we are teaching our children to love their kinks, coils and curls too!

Thanks to brands like CurlyKids, a hair care line that caters to kids’ curly-haired needs, moms like me can comb and style our little one’s hair with confidence.

For the past six months, I’ve been consistently using CurlyKids products on my daughter’s hair. Created to treat a multitude of curly hair textures, especially those with excessive dryness and breakage, the line includes: shampoo, conditioner, gel, control paste, curl defining lotion and detangling sprays.

CurlyKids Hair Care available here, $5 each

Usually, I tend to use a variety of product brands to achieve a desired effect or style. But, this time I wanted to see how the entire line worked together. And, I’m glad I did.

Ava getting her hair washed using CurlyKids Shampoo & Conditioner.

From the sulfate-free shampoo to the frizz-taming control paste, I’ve been pleased with how well the products complement each other. Since she has super dry, easy-to-tangle hair, I have to use products that will properly moisturize without leaving behind a greasy or sticky residue. Luckily, CurlyKids gets the job done.

Ava sporting her signature topknot using CurlyKids Curly Gel Moisturizer.

Out of the line, the Curly Gel Moisturizer and the Super Detangling Spray are my two faves. The gel is fragrance free and doesn’t create that unsightly flakey crust that we all dread. Plus, it adds moisture while taming her curly fly-aways. The Super Detangling Spray makes manageability a breeze because it unsnarls her strands effortlessly.

I achieved this pigtail look by using CurlyKids Control Paste, Gel Moisturizer and Detangling Spray.

Although the brand’s site says it’s for “mixed hair,” my daughter is 100% African-American so it’s safe to say that it’s suitable for ALL curly hair types. Oh and to top it off, all of their products are only $5!

If your little one is in need of some TLC for her tresses, definitely check out CurlyKids!

What products do you use to keep your kids’ hair looking good?

Category: Baby, Beauty, Hair, Health, Parenting, Travel & Lifestyle, Wellness | 3 Comments

Nail It: 6 Pretty Blue Polishes Perfect for Summer

July 9, 2014

I don’t know about you, but I’m in desperate need of a vacay.

Until I can take off to some exotic locale or settle for a beach somewhere stateside, I’m going to bring the ocean to my fingertips.

Soft baby blues and bright aqua-hued nail polishes are all the rage this summer. Forget about the over-the-top nail art from last year and embrace a more simple and chic look with water-inspired picks.

Whether you opt for a mani or pedi bearing the seascape shade, it’s safe to say that blue will boost your cool factor this season.

Check out a few of these blue-tiful buys below:

Forever 21 “Candy Blue” Nail Polish available here, $2.80

Essie “Truth or Flare” Nail Polish available here, $8.50

Mischo “Jackie” Nail Polish is currently sold out, but check out the site to see when it will be restocked, $18

Lauren B. “Malibu Beach” Nail Polish available here, $18

Deborah Lippann “Blue Orchid” available here, $18

Milani Neon “Dude Blue” Nail Polish available here, $4.49

What’s your go-to nail polish shade for summer?

Category: Beauty | Leave a Comment

Bridal Bliss: 5 Beauty Must-Haves

June 23, 2014

Now that summer is officially here, that means wedding season is underway!

Whether you’re a bride-to-be or bridesmaid, you’ll want to put your best face forward on that special day. However, due to the stress and anxiety of either saying “I do,” or serving as your BFF’s or sister’s personal bridal assistant, keeping your skin in check leading up to the big day and during the occasion can be a job in of itself.

With the help of a few good beauty products you can ensure that your face will look fab for the bridal album, and of course all those countless wedding day selfies!

Check out these picks to keep you looking picture-perfect:

Pre-nuptial prep

Clarisonic Mia 2 Cleansing Brush available here, $149. This nifty beauty device is a cult fave because its pulsating bristles easily slough away dead skin leaving behind a radiant glow that’s essential for wedding day snapshots.

GLO Solo Teeth Whitening available here, $45.”Say cheese” with ease thanks to this innovative whitening system. Skip the strips and trays and get several shades whiter teeth in as little as two weeks!

RapidLash Eyelash & Eyebrow Enhancing Serum available here, $30. Forgo falsies and bat your lashes with confidence by using this lengthening serum.

Big-Day Beauty

By Terry Cheek to Cheek Water Color Blush available here, $48. You’ll be a blushing bride with this natural cherry-colored flush to the cheeks. And, don’t worry about whether it will suit your skin tone because the versatile shade complements most complexions.

Skindinavia Makeup Finishing Spray Oil Control available here, $29. Keep shiny skin at bay with this oil-absorbing spray for a camera-ready look.

Are you going to be a bride or bridesmaid this summer? If not, are you attending any weddings this season?

Category: Beauty | Leave a Comment

Gabrielle Union Shares Summer Beauty Tips as the New Face of Philips Sonicare

May 22, 2014

No matter how we style our hair or what clothes we wear, a gorgeous smile is always the best accessory. That’s why Philips Sonicare and Philips Zoom! has tapped actress Gabrielle Union as their new face to help drive home that point.

Known for her beautiful smile, the “Think Like A Man Too” and “Being Mary Jane” star, 41, has teamed up with the popular oral healthcare brand to help encourage women to feel confident about their looks. As part of their partnership, the bride-to-be is sharing a few beauty tips for the summer.

Check them out below:

Stay hydrated: They say you should drink 8 glasses of water a day, but I drink double that – a FULL gallon! Aside from the obvious – staying hydrated – it keeps my skin, hair and nails healthy and keeps my metabolism revved.

Feel good about your smile: A healthy, white smile is an essential part of my year round beauty routine. It’s a great accessory to any outfit and helps make a lasting first impression. I brush with Philips Sonicare DiamondClean to keep my teeth and gums healthy, and my dentist whitens my smile with Philips Zoom either in the office or with convenient take-home trays.

Go natural: On set at “Being Mary Jane,” we’ve been experimenting with this fresh look for my character that has become my go-to for warmer weather: A heavier brow (it makes you look more youthful!), a nude lip and just mascara for the eyes. If I do more eye makeup for nighttime, I avoid black and stick to shades of brown for a more naturally dramatic look.

Keep hair simple with bold accents: I live in Miami and my show shoots in Atlanta, which are both extremely hot and humid places in the summer. For a cute and low maintenance hairstyle, I take it back to 1986 with braids, or I put my hair up in a simple topknot. A top knot is also great for going out or a big event – I pair it with a cat eye and a bold red lip.

Confidence is key: It’s so important to feel confident about who you are and not to succumb to unrealistic expectations. I gave that up a while ago. I try to keep healthy habits like exercising and eating fruits and veggies – I’m really into juicing daily – but I don’t put pressure on myself to fit a certain mold. If you’re 5, 10, 20 pounds more than you want to be, it’s okay. Just feel confident about being YOU!

Do you use teeth whitening treatments to keep your smile bright?

Category: Beauty, Beauty News | 4 Comments

Product Review: Olay Fresh Effects Dew Over Hydrating Gel

May 21, 2014

When I think of my first beauty experiences, Oil of Olay comes to mind.

I’ve been using the classic skincare brand ever since my mom introduced the facial moisturizer to me in middle school. The simple white and black bottle always had a luxe appeal despite it being a drugstore buy. Although I didn’t need any anti-aging wrinkle-prevention creams at the time, the quintessential moisturizer always rescued my skin from dryness.

That’s why I was super excited to try the brand’s new Fresh Effects Dew Over Hydrating Gel Moisturizer. The fun and inviting packaging caught my eye, as well as the commercials.

Olay Fresh Effects Dew Over Hydrating Gel Moisturizer available here, $14

The hydrating gel-based moisturizer is a departure from the creamy lotion that original Olay fans have come to love. But, change is good. The light-weight gel is cool and calming leaving behind a refreshed feel, making it ideal for the warmer months. Plus, it’s oil-free and won’t clog pores. In fact, thanks to its powder formula, it actually absorbs excess oil! While the scent of white tea and honeysuckle is a wee bit off-putting, it doesn’t make it deal-breaker.

I never thought that I would find a facial moisturizer that could potentially replace my beloved original Oil of Olay, but this just might be the one!

Do you use gel moisturizers?

Category: Beauty, Beauty News, Featured | 3 Comments

Special Offer: ChicBusyMom & Cocotique’s ‘May Is for Mothers’ Beauty Box

May 16, 2014

Although Mother’s Day was last Sunday, ChicBusyMom and Cocotique are celebrating mom all month long!

The mom/lifestyle blogger has partnered with the popular beauty box subscription service to bring some of the best buys for us BGs directly to our doorsteps with the “May is for Mothers” offering.

Specially curated for women of color, subscribers can test out beauty goodies including: CURLS Defining Moments Curl Release Serum, BADGER Peppermint & Tea Tree Foot Balm, HARVEY PRINCE Hello Fragrance, NAKED BAR Pit Cream Natural Deodorant, Natural Style by FUBU Curl Defining Gel, Natural Style by FUBU Deep Conditioner & Co-Wash, Natural Style by FUBU Curl Elongator and Men’s Natural Style by FUBU 3-in-1 Cleansing Wash.