Winter Styles desperately needed

Some days I feel like I'm on the verge of pulling a Britney Spears. Tired of pulling my hair back. Oh well

A conditioner that strengthens

I was away for a bit. It is now extremely cold and I am wishing I did not have to style my hair daily. I wish I had the patients for braids or some other style. I am currently in search for that perfecty leave in conditioner that strengthens my strands. If you have any suggestions please feel free to share.

Curls from my first roller

I did a quick roller set on Saturday evening. I was surprised how smooth the curls came out. Would love to try this out again, however it is torture trying to sleep with those darn rollers! My setting lotion was s-curl moisturizer with cantu strengthening for added shine.

My newest Addiction from Sebastian Collection

Happy Sunday. Hope you guys gave thanks this morning for the breath of life. Down to business, I am two months post texturizer, and you know what that means when you have 4zzzzzzzzzzzzz type hair. The new growth becomes a little poofy. I am torn between applying a texturizer or just do some tiny box braids. As of now, I have not decided since I do not like braids.

It was during this time of hair anguish that i stumble upon "Texturizer, body builder"from Sebastian Collection. According to the 8.5 floz, beautifully shaped bottle: It can be used to separate, sculpt and define. It goes further to say this product will help treat all hair styles to a new kind of fluid texture.

I picked up a bottle and as soon as I got home plastered some on my thick mane. I was SHOCKED! My hair made a complete 360. It became so flat, I was able to pull it back in a bun. The naked eyes would NEVER have been able to guess that I was 2 months post texturizer. Amazing. Just amazing.

By the way, this sebastian collection product has a liquid gel feel with the absent to flakiness or the hardness that most gels provide. I love, love, loved it. If you are looking for a way to tame those strands, definitely give it a try!

Prive Sample sale in New York this week

Today I was fortunate to visit the Prive sample in New York today. The sale is being held at the Chelsea Market located at 75 ninth Ave, corner of 15th street. This sample sale started today and will continue through Oct 5th. The hours of operation are: 10am to 7pm.

Some of the brands on sale include: Vince, Theory, 7 for all mankind, James Perse, Rock and Republic, etc. Did I mention that all items are priced at 35-80% off.
Unlike the Hermes jungle sale last week, this one was bearable and the items much more affordable. Rock and Repulic really caught my eyes but I have never paid over $100.00 for a blazer and today I was not willing. Several celeb type t-shirts from brands I cannot remember were are low as $15 and $25. I left with a dress and plan to check out a shimmery type Rock shirt that I may wear if I get to go to see Tina Turner at MSG.

Funny, I had never heard of vince or James Perse...

Oh well

Beauty and Politics

In recent times there have been such a whirlwind around Sarah Palin that I could not help but wonder the following:

If Sarah Palin had the looks of Janet Reno, would she have taken off like wild fire? If Hilary Clinton was a little younger and sexier, would she have cinched the Democratic nomination?
How much does looks play in getting elected today? Had Barack Obama have Al Sharpton's hair(ie relaxed hair), and the looks of Flava Flav, would he have advanced this far?

Sarah Palin is no doubt... hot, but what would be hotter if she stepped out of hiding and allow we the general public to know who the real baraccuda is. It is almost laughable and sad that the woman who could be VP in a few weeks is being shielded from all forms of media scrutiny. In case the Mc.Cain camp does not realize, this sends such a strong message to the undecideds.

What do you think?

Silk Elements... My favorite Texturizer

I have been texturizing my hair for a few years now and have tried several brands on the market. However, silk elements won my heart over. If I am not mistaken, it is only sold at Sallys Beauty supply.

I always use the regular, not the coarse.

Do you have a favorite texturizer? Which texturizer would you NEVER use again?

By the way, I think silk elements texturizer is sold exclusively as Sallys. Here is a link to sallys:

www.sallybeauty.com

For those who have never heard of Sallys, they have something for every hair type.

More Pictures of texturize hair

These are just a few pictures of my texturize hair. When I am no longer lazy, I will post some more! Thanks for visiting and feel free to ask any texturize hair questions you may ask. I am not an expert but I will do my utmost best to answer...

My Henna treatment... Pictures included

Picture of texturize hair in a bun just before henna treatment. This was my 3rd henna treatment. Can you see a little color? I have never, ever used any form of chemical dyes on my hair.

The picture below was taken after a henna treatment.

Earlier this week, I proceeded to do another henna treatment san indigo and was quite pleased with the rinsing out process. Unlike my first henna treatment, the henna washed out with only a few rinses. Thank God.

I had purchased indica, (not indigo)which is a type of herbal hair color to dye my hair jet black but decided against it for the time being. This time around, it does not seem like the henna gave me brown hues. My hair does feel stronger and a tad bit dry hence the reason I soaked it with scurl activator last night. I also slept with a shower cap under my silk cap. Hair felt extremely moisturized this morning.

Pictures of Texturize hair

Above are pictures of my texturize hair. Sept. 2008. To achieve this look, I simply braided my hair overnight using only cantu shea butter grow strong strenghtening treatment. Very simple.

I am feeling lazy today, so do not expect any long posting. I will upload a few more texturize pictures soon. Bye now.


Copying my texturize photos is forbidden. Should you desire permission to reproduce any segment seen here, please feel free to contact me, failure to do so will result in hefty fines being imposed. Thanks for visiting.

Why my texturize hair loves Cantu

Hello there my texturize friends. Thank you for checking in. By now you know that I am not a product junkie. I try to keep my texturizer regimen quite simple. Somedays I choose to spot the wet, curly look; other times, I spot the dry look. Well, yesterday I was so pleased with my texturize hair outcome...it was the dry curly look. The previous day I did a hot oil treatment with vatika and amla oil. In the evening I only used one product to braid my hair: Cantu shea butter, grow strong strengthening treatment. I had 6 braids at the front and 5 braids in the back.

The result was quite impressive. The dryness that is very characteristic of braidouts was absent. My texurize hair felt really silky and moisturized. This was my first braidout using cantu shea butter grow strong. Did I mention that this product is so light, yet gives you a powerful shine. Stay tuned. I will post a few pictures later. Thanks for stopping by.

Your Texturizer buddy

Texturize Hair: All about the products

Keeping texturize hair beautiful requires proper moisturizing products. As previously mentioned, I have been spotting a texturizer for several years therefore I have experimented with a number of reasonably priced items.

Shampoo:

Conditioner: Every woman should have at least 3 different types of conditioners. Almost on a daily basis we have different cravings, likewise, our hair has different needs on different days. Texturize hair loves a clean scalp. Products respond very well to clean and healthy hair. One of my favorite conditioning moisturizers is from Trader Joes. It is very affordable, costs under $3.00. In the past I use this Trader Joe conditioner almost on a daily basis especially during summers. I am trying to refrain from wetting my hair everyday. It's a challenge, really, since there is nothing more heavenly than have lukewarm water drenching the hair. Very relaxing. Ok. We were talking about conditioners.


Another favorite moisturizing conditioner which I discovered only a few months ago is: Olive oil Deep conditioner by Africa's Best. This beauty is the bomb! When my Trader Joe's conditioner finished unexpectedly, I did not even rush to replace my bottles. I had Africa's Best. I never thought I would say this but it goes a little further than Trader Joe's when it comes to moisturizing. And remember, texturize hair needs all the moisture it can get.


Did I mention the best part? Africa's Best is under $4.00 and is forumulated with extrra virgin olive oil. I guess one could always add evoo to any not so moisturizing conditioner... Remember, I am no expert. All I know is that texturize hair needs a lot of moisturize to give those curls an extra omph!

Your Texturize hair friend
Texturizer.

Pictures of textured black hair

Pictures of textured hair

Here is a picture of a texturizer. This texturize picture was taken sometime during Spring of 2008. Keep in mind, I am my own worst photographer, so bare with me. The first textured picture featured is what I call the dry texturize hairstyle. To achieve such fullness, I simply braid my hair at nights. It is textured pictures like these that have a few questioning my 4b hair type. I do not go through life thinking about hair textures. What I am most concerned about is spotting a healthy hair of head.

It really grieves me to see so many black women go bald in their experimentation of weaves. (Before the weave gals jump on me, I am not saying that weaves are a no-no.) In fact most things done correctly, including weaves can produce great results. KFC everynight anyone for a year? Hello...

I would really like to help steer black women on the right path to achieving healthy, fuller hair. And it would not hurt if that hair type is texturize. That's all for now

What is a Texturizer

What is a texturizer? Many wonder whether a texturizer is a type of relaxer. Others question whether a texturizer is natural. And the questioning continues. I think that a texturizer is a mild form of relaxer, but it is still a relaxer. Because processing times for texturize hair is far less than that of a relaxer, damage to one's hair is miminized in the texturizing process.



What is texturizing? I will spare you the monotony and not delve into any of the fancy terms as laid out by the experts. Texturizing is a type of relaxing technique that allows one to achieve a mildly different hair texture, that is usually softer, fuller, wavier and more manageable. A hair texturizer is supposed to loosen one's natural curl pattern. I have noticed that many of us who desire texurize hair have unrealistic expectations with regards to our final texturize hair outcome.

Ladies and gents, please be advised that if your natural hair type is a la Danny Glover or Samuel Jackson, do not expect your end product to produce hair like Alicia Keys. I hate to be the one to burst your bubble but it is just not happening. I have noticed vast differences in results with texturizer hair from folks who claim to have the same hair type especially 4b. The varied texturize hair results highlight the 'fact' that there may be different types of 4b hair.

Now that you know the definition of texurize hair and texturizing, go ahead get your texturizer and I will be too thrilled to experiment with your natural hair... at your own risk of course! Please feel free to suggest topics that you wish to be covered about texturize hair. I am not an expert but will try my utmost best to be resourceful to you.

Your partner in kkrime,
Texturize hair

Texturize Hair

African-Americans and texturized hair: In my opinion a far better and healthier option than bone straght relaxer. Keep in mind, I am not an expert... Texturized hair, like many things in life can be a pain and a blessing. In the coming weeks, I will delve into other aspects of texturized hair.

This is a wet version of my texturizer. The photos were taken sometime in the beginning of 2008, therefore, I cannot accurately name the products used. However, since I am not a product junkie, I would perhaps have used a combination of texture my way curl keeper from Africa organics, along with scurl activator. It's all about trial and error when it comes with experimenting with texturize hair. As the old mantra goes: Practice, practice, practice. My hair type sans texturizer is around 4b.

I am a firm believer that knowledge is power. Years ago when I first began experimenting with texturizers, I had no idea what I was getting into. All I wanted was versatility. I knew a texturizer would be my best friend in this region. And thankfully with much pain and frustration, and bad hair days, I found a few beauty staples to keep my texturize hair looking fabulous! (Yes I said it!) Fabulous texturize hair!

If you are new to texturize hair I would be more than happy to answer you the curious mind; so feel free to drop a note on any texturize hair question that you may have. Like I said before, I am not a texturize hair expert, but I know a few little pointers that may just steer you in the right direction in achieving fantastic looking texturize hair. Best of luck!

I remain your dearest friend and advisor,

Texturize hair

Queen Helene Mint Julep Masque

What is green, quite affordable (under $4.00) and will suck the gunk right off your skin? You guessed right, Queen Helene Mint Julep Masque. Who would have thought something so affordable would deliver such great results?

I first started using Queen Helene almost 8 years ago and have never looked back although I have been promising myself to give the aztec clay a try.

Queen Helene Mint Julep mask promises and delivers the following:

Will Dry up acne pimples

Rinse away blackheads

Shrink enlarged pores

I use it whenever I have a zit coming on or during my weekly/biweekly facials just after steaming. Again, queen helene mint julep masque is worth every penny.

My Aveeno Journey Begins

Today I officially begin my aveeno cleansing pads journey. Since the pads are quite big, and my face is quite small (I kid you not), I will be cutting each pad in half. This way I get more bang for my buck.

I will keep you posted as I undertake this Aveeno journey. After all, all those beauty awards it has garnered since it debuted should say something.

Grapes For the Face

This week I have noticed my skin to be more radiant. Chances are it was a combination of things... The yogurt facial mixture which I last posted about and also GRAPES. Yes, you read right, grapes.

I remember hearing one beauty expert recommend that we should apply grapes to face...just burst it open and rub face. Leave on for 15 minutes and then rinse. I wish I had photos to share, I did not even bother wearing making for the third day in a row. I am so excited.

I also purchased aveeno cleansing pads since I had heard so much about it. Will write a review soon.

As you depart, do not forget to drink plenty of water, Eat your fruits and veggies and apply grapes to face!

Green Tea Bag: Hidden beauty secret

I have listened time and time again to beauty editors speaking about products with green tea, so I decided to conduct my little experiment. For almost an entire month I drank 2 cups of green tea and upon sipping the tea, I would use the tea bag as a facial cleanser. Simply put, I would just rub the tea bag over my face and neck. Did I mention that I only used the teabags when they were somewhat hot... This opens up pores so I would normally rinse my skin with cold water to close the pores or take advantage of applying a clay masque to draw out impurities. Rest assured, your skin will thank you. Make sure you apply a moisturizer after since your skin could become dry. Buena Suerte!

Favorite mask for over 9 years: Quenn helene Mint Jupep. Love, love, love it!

My latest Natural Addiction

My latest Beauty addicition:

Orange peel: Dried and crushed
Plain yogurt
Few drops of lemon
Teaspoon of Honey
Pure Coconut Milk

Combine all to face for 15-20 minutes. Your skin will thank you. By the way, the scent of the concotion is heavenly. Try it and let me know what you think.

This mixture is great for getting rid of dark spots. Afterall, we all can do without those ugly acne scars and dark spots!

Get Rid of Dark spots

Lately I have embarked on a honey and lemon combination to fade dark spots. And from the look of things, I think it is a winning combination. The acne scars left from those damn zits are slowly fading. So excited. The only problem I am experiencing since using the honey and lemon combination is an extremely oily face. Someone suggested I substitute the honey with cucumber juice. Since I don't own a juicer, I will find a way to squeeze the living hell out of those cucumbers!

Before the year ends, I would have gotten rid of almost every acne scar provided I stick to my various regimens. Persistence is the key... I can do it!

How to get rid of dark spots

As we age, few of us are lucky enough to have that flawless skin, so we find ways to eliminate such a problem. Billions of dollars are spent on beauty products worldwide, both prescription and non-prescription.

As one who is battling acne scars, I have done it all. So many products have failed to deliver their claims. It gets frustrating at times, therefore I try my very best to limit my use of so many skin care products.

Getting rid of dark spots is a long and tedious task but totally worth it. In trying to keep expenses in check, given the slowing economy, I have done extensive research on natural products that helps to get rid of acne scars or dark spots.

The number one product that many swear by to get rid of dark spots is Vitamin E. I could attest to this one. Sometime last year, I got a burn from applying hydrogen peroxide on a zit. I had allowed the cotton to sit for about 6 minutes and was greeted with a dime sized burn. I went to CVS and purchased their store brand vitamin E oil. It retailed for under $5.00, and contained roughly 25,000 IU. Because the dark spot was fresh, I saw great results in a week. In under two months my dark scar was completely gone. How I wish I could just splash this oil on my face to go out. Since I never leave the house without SPF, it would be impossible to use any type of oil in the morning.

Next favorite combination is: Lemon and honey combined. Yes, you heard right. It is getting really late so I will post the others under a new heading later. Thanks for visiting. Ciao

Lee

Trader Joes Conditioner

At the time of writing, this is one of my favorite moisturzing hair conditioners. This conditioner from Trader Joes is all nautral and smells so citrusy. At first I was worried about the drying out factor but thankfully I never had to deal with it. For 2.99 it is my magic potion. Best thing about this conditioner: moisture filled so that one can use it on a daily basis. Love, love, love this Trader Joe's conditioner.

Will post a photo later!

Fade Dark Spots

Olay Definity deep penetrating foaming moisturizer:

Since I am bent on getting rid of all my facial acne scars, I decided to do my research and realized there was a common denominator from beauty experts: Olay Definity deep penetrating foaming moisturizer.

Though, not too happy with the almost $27.00 price tag, I decided to give it a try. According to Olay, this product:

Inspired by high definition technology, new Olay Definity Deep Penetrating Foaming Moisturizer helps reverse the appearance of past damage coming from beneath the skin's surface.
Unique aerated serum foam actively combats the look of skin discolorations to revitalize luminosity.
Glucosamine Complex hydrates to allow the natural rebuilding of collagen, diminishing the appearance of lines and wrinkles.
Lightweight formula absorbs quickly for a smooth, weightless feel.
Active foaming action feels rich and luxurious as it penetrates to condition skin at the source of past damage.
Over 8 weeks, the appearance of dullness, brown spots and uneven skin tone diminish.

I was quite impressed with Olay Definity deep penetrating foaming moisturizer that I switched to their Definity UV moisturizer, SPF15. There has definitely been improvement in the clarity of my skin. I plan on switching to another one of their cheaper lines, with similar ingredients. To read more about olay, or to get a free skin consultation online, you may visit their website: www.olay.comIn addition, if you have any recommendations with other products to fade acne scars, do not hesitate to post. We’re in this together.

Best Dermatologist in New York

Ask anyone how many Native Americans they know, and the answer will be nil. Ask anyone if you know of anyone with a skin problem, and the answer will be a resounding: YES.

Recently, I was fortunate to have come across a dermatologist in New York by the name of Dina Strachan (pronounced Strawn). Dr. Strachan was extremely polite and thorough. She makes you feel so welcomed. Such treatment is a rarity in a lot of medical facilities where one usually feels so pressured to get out of a doctor’s office quickly.

Prior to my visit with Dr. Strachan, I had visited a very prestigious Tribeca skin center. (I will not mention the place). I spent no more than 2 minutes with the dermatologist. She was is such a hurry to usher me out…it is an extremely busy practice. By the way, it was my Family doctor who referred me to this place. Frustrated, I decided to google: black dermatologists in New York. That’s how I came across Dr. Dina Strachan.

Curious as to why I visited? I had been suffering a little from bacne(back ance), you know the tiny little white stuff sticking out on your back at times. Well this was one of my problems. Though it was not severe, I wanted to get rid of them especially since summer is round the corner. Within one month of using the products that Dr. Dina Strachan had prescribed, I was beach ready! I am not kidding. I wish I had before and after pictures to show you.

My next problem was acne scars and mild acne on my chest and face. Since I began using the products, I have seen an almost 95% decrease in breakouts. The best thing about the regimen, is that I get to use only TWO products. They are suitable for face and body.

As I write, my chest has cleared significantly, but it still has a little way to go. After all, it these dark spots had been there for years, therefore I do not expect them to fade in a month.

My chest is weird. Yes, really weird. I have this thing that seems like Goosebumps all the time. Can’t wait to get rid of it totally…

If you are tired of suffering from acne scars, acne, pimples, dark spots, and other skin conditions, give Dr. Dina Strachan a try. I assure you, you will not be disappointed. My next appointment is in two months…so Dr. Stachan could monitor my progress.

According to her website: “ She has a special interest in ethnic skin care and the management of common conditions affecting ethnic populations such as melasma, keloid scars and facial moles.” She treats all skin types, not just ethnic skin.

Her official website is: http://www.dinastrachanmd.com/

In case you're wondering, the products which were prescribed to me were: Oscion6% cleanser(benzol peroxide) and ziana gel.

If you have any questions or comments, feel free to post! We’re all in this together.