Product Review: Pantene Pro-V Relaxed & Natural

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I was overjoyed when I was presented with the opportunity to try out Pantene's Relaxed & Natural Intensive Moisturizing hair care collection. Mainly because it's specifically formulated for women of color and I've experienced first hand how hard it is to find mainstream products that are designed for our various grades of hair. Not only did I get a chance to experience the products for myself but my sister also wanted to give it a try. Did we achieve the same results? Did the products meet our expectations? Find out in both of our reviews below...

What It Claims: Formulated for women of color. Helps make your hair up to 99% stronger against damage

After Using Pantene Pro-V Relaxed & Natural

My hair texture is fine & naturally curly and its been well over a year since I've had any chemicals aside from hair color put in it. I guess its safe to say I've "transitioned" into becoming completely natural. When people ask what products I use on my hair I always draw a blank because I honestly have no clue lol. I know it sounds crazy but its rare that I wash my own hair and my beautician keeps my hair looking fab so I never really asked questions ( is that bad?) But recently I've cut down on the weekly salon visits so I was really excited to see what Pantene could do for me.

Breakage Defense Deep Conditioning Mask

Likes: I absolutely LOVE the smell of the deep conditioner its so gravitating, you literally don't want to put it down. I also liked the fact that I could easily run my fingers through my curls without everything getting all tangled up.  It made it much easier to manage! I have really oily hair and I noticed that the shampoo gave me a squeaky clean feel without completely stripping my hair, that was definitely a plus because some products leave your hair dry and stripped from its natural moisture which leads to damage.

Dislikes: I can't really call this a dislike but I just wish I could use the Deep Conditioning Mask on my skin too because the smell was just too yummy!

Would I Recommend It: Yes, Yes and YES!! In fact I already did lol, I was out the other day and someone asked me what products I used on my hair and of course I proudly told them Pantene Relaxed & Natural!!!

After Styling

Overall: I love it! Pantene has definitely found a customer for life because I intend on using it for a very long time. After drying and flat ironing my hair it had so much bounce & body and it was soooo soft!

Kim's Review (my sis) 

After Styling

My hair type is fine/curly. I've searched for the PERFECT hair products that I can use at home for a long time. Odara suggested I try the Pantene products and I have to say after trying them - I am in love! The search for the perfect hair products between salon visits is over :-)!

After Styling

Likes: My hair tangles when it is wet and I often have to use a detangling conditioner. This time I didn't need it.

Dislikes: I didn't care for the smell of the shampoo because it couldn't compare to the heavenly smell of both conditioners.

Would I Recommend It: Without a doubt! In fact after Odara saw the finished product, she was in awe!

Overall: Pantene products superseded my expectations! This particular line is for natural and relaxed hair. My hair is natural and I have not had a perm in almost two years. After flat ironing my hair, I was shocked at the results! My hair had so much body, it looked like I had just stepped out of the salon. My hair was also very soft and silky. Again- my search is over and thanks to Pantene (and Odara suggesting it), I am confident that I will have salon results every time I wash and style my hair.

Kim's son (my nephew) Malachi just couldn't resist jumping in one of the photos LOL!

Products were provided by PR & media Relations representatives for review. Read our disclosure policy here.

Makeup Monday: About Face! Flawless and Memorable Looks That Last

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How many times have you just played in your makeup looked fabulous and completely forget how and what you used to get that flawless look? Or have you ever had your makeup done by someone and they just handed you everything they put on your face and not only don't you or you can't purchase everything but you don't have a way of recapturing that look again? Yeah, there is the trusty Polaroid or digital camera shot...but if you can't remember....what's the use right?

You can spare yourself the trouble of logging online and trying to find the picture and products. It's portable and an ultra must have for a true makeup addict. It's a face chart!

Some of you may already be familiar with face charts. They are used by makeup artists, film and television (for continuity) and other applications. This is such a smart idea for us regular Glow Girls to have this as part of of our makeup "accessories." There are times where you really want to recreate a look and just have no way of doing so! Here is an example of how I used it!

                                       

                        Tini's "Sunset Eye"

So for this look which I call the "Sunset Eye," I used Coastal Scents "Yellow", NYX "Orange Zest Pearl" and BTFE "Iris." The yellow doesn't show up very well in the photo but looks better in person. I lined my eyes using Maybelline Black Liquid Liner and Loreal Carbon Black Voluminous Mascara.

As you can see, on the right side I marked up what I used and on the other eye I applied the colors I used. Everything that is marked up is what I actually wore to work that day! On the other side of the page, I wrote down everything I used:

It only takes a couple of minutes to jot everything down and you can use a hole puncher to punch it and place in a binder! I purchased my pad from www.alconeco.com and it was $12. It comes with 50 sheets (and if you're ultra thrifty- make photocopies to save $$ later and share with friends!) If you want you can also attach a Polaroid pic to the sheet as a visual. Polaroid has taken the old school picture to a new level! Perfect for makeup artist, check out the Polaroid PoGo Instant Printer! Check it out here!

So no more will you have to try and remember what you used to look fabulous!

Product Review: Barrielle hand cream

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Can you believe its still cold outside? I love the cold months because it gives me a reason to wear pretty sweaters and TALL boots! What I don't love is the dry, cracked, and dull skin cold weather leaves behind. I've been using Barielle Intensive Hand treatment on my hands and they stay smooth and hydrated all day long. Check out my review:





Price: 4 out of 5 I got it for $20.00
Packaging: 5 out of 5 (Very healthy size)
Overall: 4 out of 5

What it claims: An intensive overnight, moisture treatment that heals rough, dry, scaled, and chapped hands. This grease less penetrating cream, formulated with revolutionary Oat Beta Glucan, provides a protective barrier directly on the skin to prevent dryness. Oat Beta Glucan is a unique ingredient derived from natural oats that acts as a natural anti-irritant which is safe for even the most sensitive skin. (From website)

The truth: I love it! The smell isn't all that great but it wears off and leaves your hands feeling nice, soft, and smooth.

Its very creamy and thick!

And yes I do sleep with these gloves on!

You sleep with the gloves to lock in moisture! Sometimes they may end up on the floor but I start off with good intentions! If you want to try some for yourself check out the website here.


Keep Glowing,

Wednesday's Weekly Obsession: LuShae Jewelry

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I'm a believer in keeping it simple when it comes to jewelry and thankfully I learned early that over accessorizing is a big NO-NO!! I'm also a lover of all things cutesy and girly; so when I was offered the opportunity to do a review of a piece of jewelery (of my choice) I was ecstatic!!!

This weeks obsession features the Triple Clover Pendant by LuShae Jewelry. The moment I opened the box I literally smiled from ear to ear. I honestly don't think there are words flattering enough to describe it. Simple, Beautiful and Elegant!

I'd be lying if I said it actually met all of my expectations. The truth is, it surpassed them! I honestly expected the pendant to be way smaller than it actually looked because most jewelry is exaggerated in online photos. That was SO not the case with this necklace. It looks exactly the same in person (if not better)

These pictures I took simply don't do it justice! They don't capture its true essence!

(It's very sparkly in person)

So far I've worn it everyday since it arrived in the mail on Saturday LOL! I've also gotten quite a few compliments!

My mom actually fell in love with the necklace too! And she wants to buy earrings from the site!

LuShae Jewelry has a great selection of jewelry ranging from rings, pendants & earrings. From the looks of it the majority of their products are all marked down to under $100. How awesome is that? Definitely worth the purchase!

 Check out some of my personal picks below:

The Two Heart Promise Ring

$64

I love the design of the conjoined hearts!

The Heart Pop Pendant  

$72

It's my birthstone color so you know it caught my eye!

The I Love U Dangle Earrings

$77 

Adorable!!!

Be sure to check out more of LuShae's fab earrings here.

-special thanks to Sarah :o)

Magnum P.I. Martini: Oyin Handmade Investigation

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Case #	20091128	Title	Addictive Scents
Report #	20091128.1	Subject	007 - Addictive Prod.
Location	2103 N. Charles St
City	Baltimore	MD	http://www.oyinhandmade.com/
Precinct	1	District	1
Occurred	11/28/2009 12:46:00 PM	Between	N/A
Report Date	12/01/2009 6:19:53 PM
Reported By	Officer Martini	Badge	2126

Report Narrative

Officer Martini crept like a stealthy cat. Unbeknownst to the shop owners Jamyla, HoneyBaby and Pierre I decided to drop in and "check them out." Word on the street was that they had "natural handmade products" that were so good...they instantly made their customers addicted. After researching them online and deciding what products I was going to purchase I made my move. The shop- a clean vanilla box, quaint and bohemian chic I couldn't help but to be impressed with their "front." No sooner than I walked in the door, their trusty sales associate pounced on me like a ninja. His smile and offer to assist me almost made me blow my cover. I carefully tried out their testers. One by one the scents were heavenly. The products felt good and healthy. The packaging effective and sleek. Then HoneyBaby was probably on to me. Holding a small jar of Shine & Define, he squealed loudly and smiled that cute baby smile. I knew I didn't have that much time before he would figure me out. Then Jamyla smiled and complimented me on my hair and asked if I were natural. Quickly I replied :YES.  She asked what method I used to style my hair...I began to panic..maybe HoneyBaby tipped her off...maybe she sensed something was up...I told her my method...she said it looked nice. I smiled and placed my "products" on the counter. Yeah, I couldn't help myself...I purchased two products. The Shine & Define (delectably citrus and coconut scented. Light and airy) and the Juices & Berries (island breezes wafted from its bottle I wanted to sail away). The associate rang up my items...I began to look around for a quick escape...then....then....a 10% discount...a sample shampoo bar. HOW COULD THEY DO THAT?! Oh, they are smarts ones....placing my items in a nondescript brown kraft bag- we said our good days and good byes....but I know I'll be back. I got home and used the Juices & Berries and haven't stopped yet. I must warn you: THEIR PRODUCTS ARE WORTH BECOMING INSANELY ADDICTED. I have over the weekend just opened the containers just to smell them. The cunning couple have their operations online along with funny Youtube vids. Indulge yourself. Tell em Officer Martini sent you. Offenses Offense #1 Offense Description Completed Addictive Scent and Product Y Victims Victim #1 Individual Name Gender/Race/Age Officer Martini F / B / ?? Address www.gimmethatglow.com Worldwide, USA 00000

Jordana Cosmetics

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If you're anything like me you love the dollar store. I'm not ashamed to say that I frequent that place because they have some of the best deals! Look what I picked up a few months ago:



In one of the stores I frequent they have this HUGE Jordana Cosmetics display. I have never tried this line before but I decided to pick up some shadow sticks. I got Wild Vines, Vivid Lilies, Radiant Violets, Winter Frost, and Golden Rays. I have sensitive skin but I got no irritation! The color pay off is great, it blends easily with shadow and can easily double as a eyeliner. I give these babies 2 thumbs up! When you visit your discount or dollar store pleas check the cosmetics aisle! You will be pleasantly surprised ant what you find. I got 5 jumbo shadow pencils for $1.00 each!!!

Have you ever tried Jordana Cosmetics?

Keep Glowing,

Makeup Mondays: Triple Play

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Happy Monday Everyone! I wanted to start the week off with something spunky! By no means do I consider myself "savvy" when it comes to makeup, but like most girls I do love to play around and experiment with new looks! Although I don't wear foundations, I do love my shadows. I'd like to think that I have a keen eye for colors that compliment my skin tone, but I'll let you all be the judge of that :-)

I call this look "Triple Play", specifically because I used three different colors. Ask anyone who knows me, when it comes to eyeshadow I am a MAC FaNatic!!! I absolutely love the richness, overall quality and variety of colors they carry.

Here are the products I used to create the look...

Cover Girl Lash Exact Mascara

I really just got into wearing mascara a few months ago so I'm still trying to find the right one that will create the perfect fullness in my lashes. So far Cover Girl's Lash Exact is one of my faves. I love the fact that you only really need to apply one coat!

MAC "Amber Lights"

I receive a lot of compliments every time I rock it! This is my absolute favorite eye shadow in the world!!! I wear it almost every single day and I'm sure you can tell from the photo above, hence the little hole in the center LOL!  The color is like a peachy shimmery bronze and it adds so much life to my eyes.

MAC "Star Violet"

I've had this eye shadow for a while now, it was given to me as a gift. I have to admit I was a little apprehensive in trying it at first, mainly because I've become so accustomed to neutral colors. The thing I love about it is that it doesn't actually look purple against my skin. It actually comes off as powdery pink!

MAC Eye Kohl "Hyacinth"

I was actually introduced to this color via twitter by Kitty Cleopatra! I must say I've been loving it ever since. The color is a metallic, medium blue and it's very vibrant! It makes my eyes pop and its oh so fresh & flirty :-)

Get This Look: Step by Step

1. First, I apply the Star Violet shadow inside the inner corners of my eyes, then I rub a little underneath my bottom lashes.

2. Next I smooth on the Amber Lights shadow over my entire eyelid. I prefer only adding color to my eyelids instead of  brushing it all around the eyes, but either way will work.

3. Then,  I line only the bottom of my eyes with the eye liner.

4. Lastly, I apply one coat of the Cover Girl mascara to my lashes, I always have a hard time applying it to my bottom lashes without error so I just stick to the top ones.

So what do you think?

Avon Solutions: Banishing Cream

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For all you ladies with unwanted dark spots and discolorations, I recommend Avon Solutions: Banishing Cream (Skin Discoloration Improver) This product is filled with Vitamin E, botanical brightening blend, and Avon’s patented skin brightener. This product has helped reduce the discoloration on my face , through its rich crème and just a few drops to the skin each day. Even if you don’t have such problems, this is a great moisturizer it truly keeps the face fully hydrated. To make this product even more desirable its only $8.50. Note: This product will not work with every skin type.


You Can Buy it Here

Wednesday's Weekly Obsession: The Rodeo Show Satchel

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One of the best perks of having a Beauty blog is the Endless Variety!!! Beauty goes far beyond just skin care & cosmetics, which is why I've chosen to do a weekly spotlight featuring Fab Finds and my current Obsession's of the moment.

This Weeks Obsession is the Rodeo Show Satchel by Jessica Simpson. I definitely spotted this hot little number by pure fate. As soon as I walked in the mall, the purse Gods gravitated me right towards it. There was a majestic glowing aura around it and....Okay Okay maybe that's not EXACTLY the way it happened but hey ask anyone who knows me, I am the bag & accessory Queen...




I actually bought this bag at Belk's over the weekend and I've been in love with it ever since. From the color to the design, it has fierceness written all over it, and don't let the pics fool you, this satchel is a pretty decent size and quite spacey.

$108.00

While I'm no newbie to Jessica Simpson's Collection, this is my first time actually indulging in it and I must say I'm impressed! Jessica's line features, Shoes, Handbags, Dresses, Jewelry, Fragrance and the list goes on.



Check out a few of my Bonus Faves from her collection:




Josephine Strappy Pumps

$128.00

The sexy Josephine is a platform with attitude. Features a stacked heel and platform, edgy stud details throughout, and a man made sole. Available Colors: Bronze Metallic, Black Intense Nappa.

I love these! They give such a hardcore & sexy edge!







Love to Love 2 Tone Earrings

$18.00


These flirty heart piece earrings are perfect for spicing up a casual look. I absolutely love the mix of bronze and silver. Lots of versatility! I'm keeping these beauties on my wish list.
Color: 2 Tone Worn Metal








Runway Satchel

$88.00

Take over the Runway with this lovely Jessica Simpson satchel. Its framed entry is chic, but the flirty, feminine ruffle detailing adds a little fashionable punch to its look. The attachable strap offers another carrying option. Colors: Python, Black, Iron, Saddle, Brown & Violet

Purity By Philosophy {{Guest Post By: Shercole}}

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One of my favorite products of the moment has to be Philosophy’s Purity. Purity is a one-step facial cleanser, a deep cleansing solution for a low price ($10). Purity is an award winner product by Philosophy, named Best of Sephora in 2008. This natural product is made of water, different oils, and seed extracts. (See Ingredients Below) This cleanser does a great job of cleaning the pores clogged by dirt and makeup. It’s a solution made for all skin types’ specifically sensitive skin and different skin tones. This one step cleanser helps maintain skin moisture levels. I love Purity because how it makes my face feel and smell. It leaves a completely clean surface all through a 30 second process. It is such a light creamy solution that doesn’t leave the skin too tight. All it takes is water, face massage, and rinse.


Buy Purity


Ingredients
water, disodium lauroamphodiacetate, limnanthes alba (meadowfoam) seed oil, coco-glucoside, peg-120 methyl glucose dioleate, aniba rosaeodora (rosewood) wood oil, geranium maculatum oil, guaiacum officinale, cymbopogon martini oil, rosa damascena extract, amyris balsamifera bark oil, santalum album (sandalwood) oil, salvia officinalis (sage) oil, cinnamomum cassia leaf oil, anthemis nobilis flower oil, daucus carota sativa (carrot) seed oil, piper nigrum (black pepper) seed extract, sodium trideceth sulfate, hexylene glycol, cocos nucifera (coconut) alcohol, polysorbate 20, glycerin, carbomer, triethanolamine, methylparaben, propylparaben, imidazolidinyl urea, fd&c yellow no.5