Pura D’ or: Premium Organic Argan Oil, Shampoo and Conditioner in Lavender/Vanilla Review

 

Towards the middle of 2014, I started researching oils for skin, hair, to nails to see what they were all about because so many oils were being touted as the solution to all our beauty needs. As a kid, we all opened the Vitamin E capsules and they were always great with sunburns and so forth, but that was the extent of my knowledge. I then got into Coconut anything in my teens and moved on to Jojoba and Cocoa butters. The market is flooded with bringing back oils, which not too long ago was seen as a major no-no and especially for suffers of oily skin. I suffer from combination skin and this includes my scalp’s skin where I fluctuate with what the weather and seasons bring. One Winter I could have a normal scalp and the next Winter it could be dry, so it’s also skin with a temper and if you ask me, sort of moody. To squash the moodiness, I learned that simple is better when it comes to what I put on my skin and this includes my hair and scalp.

Following the above motto, I was eager to try Pura D’ or’s products. Their choice of oil is Argan and so far this oil has been one of my favorites. My drawer looks like a science lab with different colored bottles, which all have droppers as dispensers, to even a roller ball one for my Maracuja oil. Argan has been the oil for me that super moisturizers but remains light on the skin to the point as the hours pass, more absorbs until it disappears. I like this type of nourishment/moisture and especially for overnight beauty treatments. The Moroccan oil has become more prevalent and now used in more mainstream product lines, like Josie Maran. It’s popularity is welcoming and scary because that also means price points go up for this beneficial oil and quality becomes suspect as it gets diluted with other oils, and not so good ingredients. Pura D’ or is a company that has embraced this one oil and infused all their products with 100% cold-pressed Argan oil. That is a great beginning, so I was lucky to able to try three of their products.

Pura D’ or Premium Organic Shampoo in Hair Loss Prevention (Retail Price Point: $24.99 via the website or $20.99 via Amazon)-
The shampoo comes in large bottle with a top, which features a pump dispenser. I have very long hair (waist length) and found that 1/2 a pump was all I needed to get a satisfying amount of lather and even distribution. The scent of the product can be described sort of like a blend of herbs, and I enjoyed how my hair felt when I rinsed. My hair was not left over stripped of oils and dry. I only washed once every time I showered because for me two washes was not necessary and I find this is a major culprit to drying out one’s scalp. I just leave the shampoo on for 3 minutes and focus on softly lathering (don’t get crazy with your nails against your scalp) and I’m done. I used the product for 2 weeks to get an idea on performance and if I saw differences in my hair’s health. I did not experience build-up but did regain some lost luster and shine that started to suffer from all this bouncing weather we have been experiencing in California. I also found that I was less prone to static and I did not experience any dryness on both my hair or scalp.  The shampoo states it prevents hair-loss and since I am not experiencing any, I can’t comment in it’s performance in that area.

 

Ingredients (as listed on the site):

Deionized Purified Water, Decyl Glucoside (Derived from natural sugar), Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine (Derived from coconut), Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sufonate (Derived from coconut), Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine (Derived from coconut), Cocamidopropyl Betaine (Derived from coconut), Polyquaternium 71 (Derived from plant), Cocamide MIPA (Derived from natural sugar), Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate (Derived from coconut), Polyquaternium 80 (Derived from plant), Disodium Lauryl Sulfosuccinate (Derived from coconut), Melaleuca Alternifolia* (Tea Tree), Argania Spinosa kernel* (Argan oil), Biotin (Vitamin H), Nigella Sativa Oil (Black seed), Phyllanthus emblica (Indian Gooseberry), Urtica dioica extract (Nettles extract), Serenoa Serrulata extract (Saw Palmetto extract), Cedrus atlantica oil (Cedarwood oil), Rosmarinus officinalis (Rosemary oil), Salvia Sclarea oil (Sage oil), Polygonum Multiflorum Root (He Shou Wu), Citrus Medica Limonum (Lemon oil), Hibiscus (Rosa-sinensis) Extract, Nicotinic acid (Niacin), Zinc Pyrithione, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Soy Isoflavone (Non-GMO), Beta Sitosterol, Camellia sinensis (Green Tea), Sorbitan Oleate Decyglucoside Crosspolymer (Derived  from natural cane sugar, non-GMO corn and olive oil), Phenoxyethanol (Mild Preservative), Caprylyl Alcohol

Pura D’ or Premium Organic Conditioner in Lavender & Vanilla (Retail Price Point: $24.99 via their website and $19.99 via Amazon)-
The conditioner smells a little stronger (aromatic) in scent from it’s shampoo counterpart, but nonetheless still very pleasant and it’s a nice clean but light scent. The vanilla and lavender combo almost works like aromatherapy because of the calming nature of both fragrances. The conditioner I focused more on application to my strands, versus the roots of my hair. I left the product on for 2 to 3 minutes, depending what styling products I had used that day. This method allows me to customize my hair’s needs because even though I try to use the most kindest of products, hair spray and even a touch of it is not so nice when comes to build-up. That is one thing this conditioner did not have, was any build up effect and especially after continuous use. You are left with soft locks that tend to need less leave-in oils/styling treatments when you get to the drying stage of your hair. Again, you will love the scent and feel your hair gets from this conditioner and if you have to choose to try just 1 product from the duo, try this conditioner!

Ingredients (as listed on the site):
Deionized Purified water, organic coconut protein (cocos nucifera), ceteareth 20 (derived from coconut), stearyl amidopropyl dimethylamine (derived from coconut), plant protein (naturally derived vegetable proteins), glycerin (100% vegetable base), Argania spinosa (argan oil), lavender extract (Lavandula Angustifolia), Vanilla Planifolia (vanilla extract), PF-64 (Paraben-free milk preservative), Retinol (VitaminA), Panthenol(Vitamin D), Tocopheryl(Vitamin E) & citric acid (naturally derived to balance pH).

Pura D’ or Pure and Organic Argan oil (Retail Price Point: $24.99 via their website or $19.99 via Amazon)-
On the website, I noticed this bottle now comes with a pump action top but mine came with a dropper, so you have already an improvement. I love droppers because you can control the amount you need but exposing the contents to air and light on a daily basis in not so great, plus you have the risk of spilling. It finally happened to me where I spilled my Retinol bottle but that means one oops in one year’s time…..not too bad. The Argan oil is unrefined and you get 100% pure cold-pressed oil. Fine and light in texture and my eyes love this stuff. I get zero issues when it comes to eye make-up application the following day. Primers are great for staying and longevity power with eye shadows and the like, but can be drying and stressful to the skin on your eye’s lid and surrounding parts. So little can be applied to this sensitive area but I have found that Argan is kind enough to never irritate, leaves zero residue the following morning that may cause make-up to crease, and offers a perfect barrier of protection. It’s one of the few oils I have witnessed that actually dissipates and fully absorbs into the skin in that area. Vitamin E oil floats and I think I do more damage trying to remove it and Coconut oil loves my lashes but because of it’s temperament towards temperatures, its want to solidify can cause some areas to be almost mealy and again heavier than desired in residue. So, in short, Argan on the eye lids and pat around nicely (plus softly) and Coconut oil on the lashes! Simple ingredients with a multitude of uses and Argan oil beats any nail/cuticle oil on the market. Nothing beats a real nude look like toe nails that are healthy and beautiful for Spring and Summer shoes!

 

 

 

Ingredients:
Pure Organic Argania Spinosa Kernel (Argan) Oil.

 

Connect with Pura D’ or and they have more to offer at:

• On-line
• Amazon
• Facebook
• Twitter
• Instagram
• http://www.purador.com/blogger/womderful
• #PuraDor

Promos:

• START20 coupon code gives all first-time customers a 20% discount
• Receive a FREE Cold Pressed Argan Oil with any purchase
• Free Shipping on all orders within the Continental U.S.

 

I received the above product(s) free of charge from Pura D’ or.  I am not obligated to provide a positive or favorable review, just my honest opinion.  My review is based on my experience with the product and/or brand, which may differ from yours.

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Swaggable: Belegenza RoMANce Deep Conditioning Treatment #Review

 

I read up on Belegenza and their products on-line. Belengenza’s (bel-a-jen’-za) name is made up of two italian/latin words, where Bel meaning beauty and Gen for genesis. The company’s website was very informative and they make hair products that fit everyone’s needs. Their products are gentle but effective and very in tune with nature by using natural ingredients.

I used the shampoo and let’s see how the conditioner plays with my hair!

Belegenza RoMANce Deep Conditioning Treatment: A formula made to nourish your hair from tip to tip. Helps replenish moisture and also keep it there, but also encourages a healthier growth due to it being kind to your scalp. Referred as the “energizer” due to it’s combination of naturally derived ingredients, this deep treatment is perfect for fine to even coarsely textured hair. You have again the very welcoming Aloe Vera as a base and 3 different kinds of seaweeds to nourish your strands. It does not stop there, also Jojoba essence, Honey, Coconut extracts and oils from Olives and Lanolin. Don’t forget your vitamins, Belegenza also feeds your hair with a healthy dose of Vitamin B2, Vitamin B12 and Vitamin E. A powerful combination of ingredients and also free of fillers, sulfates, silicone, alcohol…..well, let’s say with the smoothie craze at an all time high, the above blend is surely going to feed your hair!

Ingredients as listed on their site: Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Hypnea Musciformis (Hawaiian Seaweed) Extract, Gelidiela Acerosa (Gulfweed Seaweed) Extract, Sargassum Filipendula (Red Mapleweed) Extract, Sorbitol, Stearalkonium Chloride, Behentrimonium Metosulphate, Cetrimonium Chloride, Glycerin, Honey, Cetyl Alcohol, Silk Amino Acids, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Secret Salon Ingredient, Acetyl Tyrosine (Amino Acid), Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein, Riboflavin (Vitamin B2), Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Olea Europaea (Olive) Oil, Lanolin Oil, L-Cysteine (Amino Acid), Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Extract, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Pyridoxine HCL-5-Phosphate (Vitamin B6), Cyanocobalamin (Vitamin B12), Panthenol, Oleyl Alcohol, Stearyl Alcohol, Stearic Acid, Benzophenone-4, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Sorbic Acid, Tetrasodium EDTA, Citric Acid, Phthalate-free fragrance.

Performance: The treatment again smells so good when applied that it is seriously aromatherapy in the shower. I applied a small amount and it dispersed well through out my hair. A little goes a long way and I left the conditioner on for 5 minutes. Rinsed out nicely and you get instant softness and shine. I towel dried my hair and then proceeded to blow dry. You can feel moisture is locked-in but not the heaviness. My hair still had it’s natural body and lift, so it does deep condition without that flat and even greasy film some deep treatments leave behind. Belegenza had none of that! My hair was easy to style and I felt the treatment did help and especially with the stress my hair gets from heated elements like a flat-iron to blow drying. The RoMANce is definitely there because Belegenza loves my hair but forgives me for not always being the best gal to it.

Price Point: $36.00; Trial size bottle available for $17.00

Again very happy with the performance of the Belegenza products and how they left my hair feeling and looking healthy.

For more information on the above product or to view the full Belegenza line, please visit:

• On-line- https://belegenza.com/product/romance-deep-conditioning-treatment/
• Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/Belegenza
• Twitter- https://twitter.com/Belegenza
• YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/user/Belegenza

I received the above product free of charge from Swaggable and Belegenza.  I am not obligated to provide a positive or favorable review, just my honest opinion.  My review is based on my experience with the product and/or brand, which may differ from yours.

Swaggable: Belegenza ILLustrious Shampoo & Cleanser #Review

 

I do not receive that many items when it comes to hair products, but so far the Belegenza line makes any room they are in smell so nice and clean. I have never heard of the brand but I always welcome anything new when it comes to hair care. I have very long hair that is a mixture of normal and fine in texture but not flat or thin…..it’s really just too much hair if you ask me. I pick-up static like a balloon would (frizz central) and the only two positives I can find is it does not break easily and so far no grays (yet) 🙂 You know how people have combination skin problems, well I have those too but also combination hair ones. At least I’m consistent!

I have been using Carol’s Daughter products and very happy but I’m always hunting for something different or better.

I read up on Belegenza and their products on-line. Belengenza’s (bel-a-jen’-za) name is made up of two Italian/Latin words, where Bel meaning beauty and Gen for genesis. The company’s website was very informative and they make hair products that fit everyone’s needs. Their products are gentle but effective and very in tune with nature and using natural ingredients.

Belegenza ILLustrious Shampoo & Cleanser: The shampoo is uses natural extracts that are derived from fruit and vegetables. You have anti-aging extracts like Sugarcane, Apple, Green Tea, Nettle, Sage, Rosemary, Comfrey and Rhizome Root. You also have Castor Beans, 3 types of Seaweeds and Vitamin E and Vitamin B6. No wonder it smells so good but the scent remains welcoming, not over perfume-y. The shampoo is also color safe and free of salt and sulfates. Nothing really synthetic or at all damaging to your hair or scalp. So far I really liked their ingredients and they use an Aloe Vera base versus just selling you products that are just mostly water.

Ingredients as listed on their site:
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate (Vegetable based) , Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate (Coconut based), Cocamidopropyl Betaine (Coconut based), Hypnea Musciformis (Hawaiian Seaweed) Extract, Gelidiela Acerosa (Gulfweed Seaweed) Extract, Sargassum Filipendula (Red Mapleweed) Extract, Sorbitol, PEG-18 Glyceryl Oleate/Cocoate (Coconut based), Glycol Stearate (Vegetable based) , Honey, Secret Salon Ingredient, Silk Amino Acids, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Saccharum Officinarum (Sugarcane) Extract, Citrus Medica Limonum (Lemon) Fruit Extract, Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Extract, Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Urtica Dioica (Nettle) Extract, Salvia Officinalis (Sage) Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Symphytum Officinale (Comfrey) Rhizome/Root Extract, Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Extract, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Pyridoxine HCL-5-Phosphate (Vitamin B6), Panthenol, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethoxydiglycol, Sorbic Acid (Rowanberry distillate), Polyquaternium-10 (Cellulose/thickener) , Phenoxyethanol, Tetrasodium EDTA(Mineral chelator), Citric Acid (Lemon), Phthalate-free fragrance.

Performance: The product lathers up really good and even though I do not have color or chemically treated hair, the shampoo worked wonders. My hair was left feeling clean but not stripped. Very calming scent while you shower and a clean welcoming natural fragrance is left when hair dries. I liked how my hair not only looked but felt. The frizz level was very low and my hair just looks healthier. I tried both a natural (air) drying and then the second time used a blow dryer, again happy with both results.

Price Point: $22.00

I was satisfied and happy with the shampoo and it actually made me curious as to how a more suited for me formula would perform from Belegenza’s line of hair care products.

For more information on the above product or to view the full Belegenza line, please visit:

• On-line- https://belegenza.com/product/illustrious-shampoo-cleanser/?add-to-cart=100
• Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/Belegenza
• Twitter- https://twitter.com/Belegenza
• YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/user/Belegenza

 

I received the above product free of charge from Swaggable and Belegenza.  I am not obligated to provide a positive or favorable review, just my honest opinion.  My review is based on my experience with the product and/or brand, which may differ from yours.

Smiley: Nature’s Bounty / Optimal Solutions Hair, Skin and Nails Gummies #Review

I’m always a supporter of finding ways to improve my skin’s health to my hair and nails. Smiley and Nature’s Bounty sent me a free bottle of their gummies, which contain Biotin and other supplements that feed your beauty. I was also sent samples to distribute with coupon cards to give away, a few beauty related items, like a compact and nail file, plus a couple of hair bands.

What’s in it:
This is for a serving of 2 gummies with a Daily Value (DV) based on a 2,000 caloric daily intake diet.

• Biotin– 2, 500 mg (833% of your DV) > Biotin is usually found in our intestinal’s bacteria and our bodies usually produce more naturally than what our body requires (DV). Biotin is what our cells need to be able to grow, produce Fatty Acids and aid with metabolizing fats and Amino Acids. Now, there are people who may have metabolic disorders, in which enough Biotin is not produced. You will also find people that have a issues producing enough gastric acid be low on Biotin, as patients who are elderly, people who consume alcohol and/or smoke. Another cause is a Immune System disorders. Another culprit that may make a person deficient in Biotin is consumption of egg whites in their raw form and on a daily basis (functional Avidin). Avidin is destroyed by cooking. Symptoms of a deficiency is hair loss, skin disorders to even neurological disorders like depression, fatigue, lethargy to hallucinations.
• Vitamin C– 15 mg (25% of your DV) > Ascorbic Acid, which is the source listed has been proven to help with oxidative stress. Being that it is classified as an antioxidant, people may see benefits in cardiovascular disease to even those who suffer from inflammation. Vitamin C also helps the immune system and is a natural antihistamine, so you will also find benefits when it comes to allergies.
• Vitamin E– 15 IU (50% of your DV) > You have probably noticed Vitamin E in many beauty products and I personally use the vitamin in oil form to hydrate and protect the skin around my eyes. Vitamin E is another antioxidant and can help with protecting lipids, neurological function, to even reducing oxidative stress.

Other Ingredients listed- Corn Syrup, Sugar, Dicalcium Phosphate, Grape juice color concentrate, Gelatin, Modified Food Starch, Citric Acid, Lactic Acid, Natural Strawberry flavor, Black Carrot juice color concentrate, Maltodextrin, Fractionated Coconut oil, Carnauba wax, Beeswax and Silica.

Dosage: For adults, Nature’s Bounty recommends a serving of 2 gummies once or twice on a daily basis. They suggest taking them with a meal. A full size bottle comes with 80 gummies in total, so you will run short on a 30-day supply if you go beyond the minimum requirement (once daily).

The Flavor/Taste Test:
The gummies are Strawberry flavored and sweet, with almost a corn starch after-taste. Not your usually clear looking gummy but a more cloudy and waxy consistency.

Overall Performance/Results:
I took the product until I finished the bottle and I must admit I did not like being short on a 30-day supply if I took the product twice daily (total of 4 gummies). It’s just not convenient and not a manner I usually buy or take supplements. I like the amount of Biotin and Vitamin C and E found in the blend. I found taking 1 gummy in the morning and 1 gummy in the afternoon worked best for me because 833% of a my Biotin daily value in one dose is really just going to purge out with the amount of water I tend to drink through out the day. I prefer absorbing my supplements a little through out the day versus flooding my system with higher (mega) doses. I noticed changes mostly in my nails and the growth cycle did speed up. My hair grows quickly as it is, so I could not comment there but I did not notice any significance when it came to changes in my skin. I did not have fewer or more breakouts.

A few things I did find negative when it came to this supplement was the corn syrup as first ingredient, then more sugar, to the clear window where you can see the gummies from. Vitamin C oxidizes and becomes useless when exposed to light and this is why you always see the supplement stored in dark/solid colored bottles. I know people like to view products when buying but not at the cost of potentially losing a benefit when you are seeking to better your health. I know I m not Biotin deficient and could not locate studies where a person who produces, or in our case naturally produce more than needed; needed a mega-dose on top of that to see results in skin, hair, or nails. I have been drinking more water so I know that helps with the aforementioned, and it comes at a lower cost per unit, plus you don’t get shortened on a 30-day supply there 🙂

Price Point: 80 gummy count bottle retails for $5.79 to $7.99. I found the lower price point at Walmart, with Amazon being $0.10 more and Walgreen’s being the most expensive at $7.99.

You can save by signing-up to their Newsletter- $1.00 off coupon http://www.naturesbounty.com/signup/

You can also try the product and if it does not provide you with satisfied results; get your money back here:

• 30 Day Challenge Guarantee form- http://www.naturesbounty.com/challenge/

I am glad I tried the gummies because I do believe in working from within to improve our outside. With the coupon and guarantee, I personally feel that it may be something you wish to try and see if you get results. It’s a win/win in my book!

To find more information on Nature’s Bounty and the above product, please visit them here:

• On-line– http://www.naturesbounty.com/optimalsolutions/053545
• Facebook– https://www.facebook.com/NaturesBounty
• Twitter– https://twitter.com/NaturesBounty
• Pinterest– http://www.pinterest.com/naturesbounty/

 

I received the above product free of charge from Smiley and Nature’s Bounty/Optimal Solutions.  I am not obligated to provide a positive or favorable review, just my honest opinion.  My review is based on my experience with the product and/or brand, which may differ from yours.

Influenster: John Frieda Frizz Ease 3-Day Straight Flat Iron Spray #3DaysStraightLove

What, more VoxBox goodness? Why, yes, this time from John Frieda. John Frieda’s Frizz Ease line has come out with a new product to help tame your locks when using a Flat Iron. The product comes in spray form for easy application and contains Keratin. Keratin is a natural protein, which is present in hair. The protein aids with dry time by shortening it and also helps tame your locks. The end result is less frizz and many people use such treatments and products with Keratin for it’s restorative properties. I have been using a Flat Iron spray, so I was happy to test this one out and see how it performs. The spray is advertised as heat activated and also states it will help to protect your hair from the damage caused by such elements. John Frieda’s Flat iron Spray gives you up to 3-Days of straighter hair (or less if you shampoo earlier) and you are left with a glossy and smooth finish.

My Results:

My former Flat Iron spray does not contain Keratin but does work almost in the same manner, by being activated by heat and also serving as a protectant. The other difference is that the John Frieda brand may only be applied when hair is wet and this may be because of how the product works and the Keratin properties. I sprayed as directed, starting with 7 to 15 sprays. If your hairy is curlier, unruly, longer or just plain thicker. you will need to apply more sprays. My hair is long so I had to apply close to 17 sprays because I admit I lost count between 14 and on. The trigger is simple to push so not you will get a soar trigger finger and you then just simply comb your hair to get even distribution. You then use a hair dryer to blow dry your hair straight and then use the flat iron to finish. I did just that and between the new blow dryer and the spray, my hair was ready in 10 minutes to begin the flat iron process. John Frieda recommends you flat iron in sections for best results, something I already do so it was easy and familiar for me to proceed. My hair has zero when it came to the frizz factor and the scent is pleasant, not chemically. My hair had a natural healthy shine that looked glossy but not oily. Day two arrived and I looked like Day One, so I was happy. By Day 3 my hair was tame and even though I slept in a loose bun, I was still able to achieve a hair down look I was satisfied with.

Price Point: $9,99 for a 3.5 fluid ounce bottle

Ingredients (as listed on the site):

WATER, ALCOHOL, POLYSILICONE-9, HYDROLIZED KERATIN, BENZOPHENONE-4, STEARTRIMONIUM CHLORIDE, DIPROPYLENE GLYCOL, BENZYL ALCOHOL, MALIC ACID, LACTIC ACID, SODIUM HYDROXIDE, FRAGRANCE, DISODIUM EDTA, METHYLPARABEN, PROPYLPARABEN

You get enough product to use and don’t let the spray count deceive you. Yes, it’s high but also light in application.  I also like that this product can be found at Target to Walgreen’s.  Use a coupon and the price will be friendlier 🙂

You can find this product and others in the Frizz Ease line at:

• John Frieda Site on-line- http://www.johnfrieda.com/en-US/ProductDetail/Hair-Care/Frizz-Ease/3-Day-Straight-Semi-Permanent-Styling-Spray
• Connect via Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/johnfriedaus
• Connect via Twitter- https://twitter.com/JohnFriedaUS
• #3DaysStraightLove

I received the above product free of charge from Influenster & John Frieda. I am not obligated to provide a positive or favorable review, just my honest opinion. My review is based on my experience with the product and/or brand, which may differ from yours.

FIE: KQC Thermal Shine Spray for Hair

We love our hair. We try to protect (or repair) it all the time. Sometimes we need a little help in the “protection” department. That’s where KQC comes in. I received this product to try out with the flat-iron and after almost a month of using it, I love it. The product not only protects the hair from heat damage but comes with added benefits, like leaving your locks shiny and smooth. My hair has a soft feel to the touch but also looks silky after use. I was concerned with product build-up, since this tends to show up after several applications and with long term use. So, I made sure to really try the spray out before writing up my review. The last thing you want to do is having to use a harsh shampoo to strip your hair clean from the spray, plus it tends to take away your own natural oils. None of that has been needed with the KQC Thermal Shine spray.  My hair feels and remains clean after application and when I wash my hair, it is left naturally healthy. This where you can tell if a product worked, protecting your hair from any heat elements. I can say I am a fan of the spray and can’t imagine being without it because it adds that extra touch of style to my hair, and I also have seen zero damage to my hair. It’s the spray you need so your hair does not looked as stressed as you may feel. 🙂

Application:

I like products that can be used with wet or dry hair and this is one of them. You just spray and style as you would with a flat or curling iron, even a hair dryer. You get a glossy finish that just looks healthy and not greasy. The nozzle has a nice spray pattern so you can easily control and maximize application with little to no waste. The KQC Thermal Shine spray works on all hair types too! A great tip I will share is to spray in the shower! You do not have to worry about overspray residue on your walls, pictures, or even counters. Then the next time you shower, you just wet your shower walls down and no mess to worry about! Just don’t forget to take your socks off before entering your shower (yeah, I did that once and was left with semi-wet slipper socks…booo).

After 30 days:

I found the KQC Thermal Shine spray did not leave any build-up/residue and I was left with a lightweight finish everytime. Some sprays that add shine also add so much oil that your hair not only feels heavy but looks greasy, this is not one of them. No white powder residue or hair left dry after exposure to any heat.  The spray also lasts because I found a light spray all over is all that was needed. That is 2 to 3 seconds of my finger on the button!  The scent is pleasant and smells clean. I also found my hair lasted longer when it came to styles and restyling. I could easily go from an up-do look to a letting my hair down without any signs left of my previous style!

Price Point:

Flat Iron Experts has the KQC Thermal Shine spray priced at a reasonable $15.99 for one can that will last. I also found a better deal from the same seller, FIE via Amazon for $13.99, so use your Amazon bucks and get it today!  You will not be disappointed.

I received the above product free of charge from Flat Iron Experts.  I am not obligated to provide a positive or favorable review, just my honest opinion.  My review is based on my experience with the product and/or brand, which may differ from yours.

 

Beyond the Beauty Hair Care, Precision Pro Select Zebra Ceramic Flat Iron

Let’s have a chat about out hair for a bit, shall we? I have very long, veryfine hair, and there’s a lot of it. This means that anything I use usually uses high amounts of product or a process takes longer. I admit that most times I resort to doing a bun or do a half-up do to try to mask my short comings (i.e. lack of dedication) regarding my hair style.

I was sent the Beyond the Beauty Precision Pro Select Zebra Cermic Flat Iron (Item #BTBPPZ) from the Flat Iron Experts to try out. I have to admit that I have walked by hair flat irons but most times I get a case of the lazies and walk away. I’ve had some very negative experiences with devices, with my most recent one being that the build was poor and not only zapped me, but there was an area of plastic that was not smoothed out enough, so it loved to catch a hair and surprise me by pulling it out.  Bad dreams about that curling iron still haunt me!

Before Flat Iron Use

Now, the first feature I love is that the controls on the Beauty Precision Pro-Select Ceramic styler. A temperature selector that uses degrees Fahrenheit. I can fine tune the heat I want and or need that fits with my hair/style. None of this low, medium and “I fry your hair” functions you see with other flat irons. The selector is easy to reach, touch and set….this is even with it on. The handles remained cool throughout my entire use. No discomfort whatsoever. What I liked best, it only took me 10 minutes to learn how to use it (yeah, I sort of skipped on instructions and jumped in) and that was counting styling. The setting for me was in the low 200°’s (Fahrenheit), but this little zebra starts at 176° and gives you every temperature in between to a maximum of 430°. I like that because some styling sprays and hair-dos require different needs and this styler fits every single one of them!

After using the Flat Iron

Other Features:

I also liked BtB Precision Pro Select’s ergonomics. You do not think much of it until you have to use an item that gives off heat and you have very long or even short hair, it takes being able to handle and reach the right angles to get the final look you want to achieve. I could get close to my head and reach out with the iron to the tips of my hair, with one fell swoop. I saved time not having to go back and forth to get areas I missed, it missed, or could not reach. It’s slim and easy to manage and light in weight. I bake in the kitchen and sometimes my hands are tired and not steady but I had zero complains when it came to functionality. The styler also has a long cord so it comes to you versus you trying to work with it.

Longevity:

The plates are 100% ceramic and I like no skimping in that area because this is what will be touching my locks! The heat not only is well distributed, as you see this by it’s exceptional performance, but it also retains the heat well so you can keep going with the styler. It keeps up with me versus I having to wait for it! I get regular visits from the frizz monster, and as well as his buddy the Static King…..not good when your hair is long. This means it’s obvious to all and I don’t want to crackle when I flip my hair. In comes Far Infrared Red (FIR) technology to save the day from all those monsters and kings trying to ruin it. No frizz, no zapping people (or the poor dog’s nose) and I can now wear the fabrics that I sort of ditched because the friction with them made my hair worse (aka: putting back that hood on my jacket with the shiny lining). The flat iron is well insulated and constructed. I received it on February 12th and wanted to use it several times before drafting out my final review……I have zero bad things I could find and even became fond of the zebra print! It adds character to my very “blah” world of hair styling tools…..even my hair brush is a plain bamboo color!

Quick Note on the Pros: Great controls, easy to manage the styler and heats up quick to any setting you desire. Leaves my hair soft and silky and this was using the styler as-is with zero assistance from sprays, leave-in conditioners, serums, or any magic spells or potions. You get Ceramic Technology (100% regarding the plates), Negative Ion Technology and Far Infrared (FIR) Technology for a economical and low price point.

Quick Note on the Cons: I review many items and I usually find a con or that little thing I should mention/share. I had to reach out like I even stared at the poor zebra and tried to find a flaw. I couldn’t…..well maybe it could come with it’s own zebra home….like a pouch for keeping but do I want or need one? No, but you may and that is really a very itty, bitty, con I had to hunt for to fill my “Con” space. Beyond the Beauty even made a Peacock version if you are anti-zebras.

Price Point:

I am giddy about the $86.99 sale price at Flat Iron Experts that if I could insert a little squeal by the price, I would! Flat Iron Experts charges no shipping if you spend $50.00 or more, so you save there too.  The product also comes with a generous 2-year warranty.

Accessories Recommended:
I was sent two accessories that I recommend in purchasing, which I will be posting later this week the KQC Thermal Shine Spray Review……but please do not forget to pick-up the Flat Iron Experts Iron Holder. You will thank yourself and so will your home’s surfaces. No sliding, no mishandling of your flat iron and your styler is ready to grab at anytime. The holder even comes with suction cups that truly work, so it’s like having a third hand that we all need when doing our hair (except this one does not sigh like my Husband does) 🙂

• KQC Thermal Shine Spray $13.99
• Flat Iron Holder $14.99
• Visit the Beyond the Beauty Hair Care– http://www.beyondthebeauty.com/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=66&products_id=192&zenid=alrepb7aiul3lr9fvoho1bevo4

I received the above product(s) free of charge from Flat Iron Experts.  I am not obligated to provide a positive or favorable review, just my honest opinion.  My review is based on my experience with the product and/or brand, which may differ from yours.

Smiley Mission: Aveeno Active Naturals Nourish+ Dandruff Control

Being a Smiley member, I was able to participate in the Aveeno Active Naturals mission, featuring the Nourish+ Dandruff Control Shampoo and Conditioner. My experience in Summer is always getting an itchy and dry scalp caused by the pool’s water. The chlorine really tends to make me itch and even though I don’t get flakes, you scratch enough and you start mistreating your hair and scalp. I have a regimen where I will use a anti-dandruff shampoo every other time I shampoo my hair because shampoos of this kind….well they tend to not be so nice to my locks.

Smiley sent a coupon that covered the cost in full for each product. I noticed at the store, the supply was low on these two items and I always see that as a good sign. I tried the product for one week and even though I allow usually a full two weeks of use before reporting my results, I was happy and satisfied at the one week point of usage that I decided to blog early (the latter is a rarity for me 🙂 )

I first sniffed the bottles and like very much the scent they have and it stays true to Aveeno’s fragrances, natural and almost coconut like but not overpowering. My scalp after just one use did not itch at all and I like this because I usually had to use a deep conditioner for my hair that tended to leave residue. My scalp would not itch as bad with the former method I used but who wants greasy hair? I then would try to space out the dandruff shampoo use of my former brand, but then that meant every other time I used it, I had to welcome the frizz. The juggling act has been seized with just using these two simple products. Aveeno’s Nourish+ does control the itch but also helps my hair look it’s best. I don’t have to miss out or trade one benefit over another one. My hair is manageable, soft but still has life so my volume is not compromised. I also like that I am left with no frizz so I use less anti-frizz product, usually just on the ends of my hair as a way to protect them.  The product also contains  oat peptide and oat extract, which aids in producing an overall healthier scalp and hair.  Finally improvement when it comes to an anti-dandruff product!!

I am a user of Aveeno’s lotion products that I have raved about before, from the 24 hour body moisturizers to the products for your face….let’s not forget the sunscreens that does not cause me to break out.   Again, Aveeno does not disappoint and I like the instant results and the positive change my hair reflected after just one wash. A girl only has so much patience and I like instant gratification when I can find it!

Aveeno has three different varieties in their Dandruff Control line:

• Shampoo
• Conditioner
• 2-in-1

I noticed the price point is about $7.99, so why not click this link &  save $3.00 with Smiley360?:

I received the above products from Smiley and Aveeno free of charge.  I am not obligated in providing a positive/favorable review, just my honest opinion.  My review is based on my experience with the products, which may differ from yours.