Have You Been Tweak-d?

Hello, Elegant Lovelies,

My hair journey began when I looked for new products to help my it grow and for it to be in softer and in better condition. Early one, I found Ojon Restorative Treatment. I really believed that it helped get my hair stronger and more vibrant. My hair felt more moisturized and softer. I decided not too long ago to not use any more relaxers on my hair. I wanted to find more natural methods and products. One tub of Ojon cost $50 at the time. It was one of the most expensive products that I used, but it worked so it was worth it. One day I turned on the television and saw on QVC the founder and his wife on and her hair was beautiful.  QVC had Ojon for a few years. The company was sold to Loreal then it went to Origins. Later it was not available anymore unless you saw it on Amazon or eBay for exorbitant prices. That was crazy.

Last year I saw the creator of Ojon on HSN selling a new line called Tweak-d.  I saw Tweak-d shampoo and conditioner. And I saw a new version of the restorative treatment call Tweak-d Restore Ancient Rituals Rejuvenating Oil. I was excited and wanting to hear more.

More information about Tweak-d Restore Ancient Rejuvenating oil
*HSN site

What It Is: An intensive hair and body oil formulated to help moisturize dry hair and skin.

What It Does

  • Helps to rejuvenate the look of dry skin and hair
  • Helps to moisturize dry skin
  • Can be mixed with your body creams, shampoos, conditioners and styling products for a boost of hydration

The ingredients on the back of the box

TWEAK-D RESTORE HAIR & BODY OIL
Ingredients: Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Bassia Butyracea Seed Butter, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, Elaeis Guineesis (Palm) Kernel Oil, Elaeis Oleifera Kernel Oil, Prinsepia Utilis Seed Oil, Parfum/Fragrance, Mel (Honey), Tocopherol. I heard on one of the presentations that the fragrance was natural but I have to do some research on that.

Tweak-d Restore Ancient Rituals Rejuvenating Oil is said to be Ojon taken up a notch. I purchased it when it was a Today’s Special on auto-delivery on Hisn.com. I used as a leave-in conditioner but you can also use it as a pre-treatment or body lotion.

Here’s a video below about the oil.

It’s so great to have the Ojon, I mean a pumped-up version call Tweak-d Restore Ancient Rituals Rejuvenating Oil back.

The Benefits Of Steam Treatments On Your Hair

Hey Beautiful People,

Christmas and New Year Blessings to you of good health and prosperity!

I receive many questions about what I do to keep my hair moisturized and conditioned. For the last several years, I have given my hair a steam treatment before I get into the shower to cleanse it. You may think this is an extra step that does not seem necessary; but for my hair success this process has helped me so much in detangling and the overall strength of my hair has changed.

Steaming: An essential part of my hair regime.

In the early days of my hair journey, I watched many Youtube videos that talked about the steaming process. Many of the Youtubers recommended this step, so I decided to try it. One of the first Youtube videos I watched on steaming was from Hey Fran Hey. She has not published a video in a while; but you can still watch her videos.

It took some time for me to master finger detangling, but eventually I figured it out it. I also use the Denman brush in the shower. After watching Fran’s video I took some of the tips she gave and started the prep before the steaming process. After trial and error I found a process that works best for me.

To prep my hair for the steamer, I use my favorite Wen oils, like Pomegranate and Lavender oils. You do not have to use the Wen oils. You can also use 3 or 4 drops of your own Lavender oil or peppermint oil mixed with a good carrier oil such as olive oil, jojoba oil or ovocado oil.
If you are pregnant or nursing please check with your doctor before attempting to deep condition with oils. Also, if you are allergic to essential oils or cannot use them, you can use your favorite deep conditioner. I have used the Shea Moisture Coconut and Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie and Sauve Conditioner. I have found that if I deep condition before I cleanse, it has helped my hair to be more moisturized and I have less shedding.

First Step:
I divide my hair in four sections. I go through it and apply the oils or deep conditioner until my hair is fully saturated. Before I had my steamer, I would soak a towel or turban in hot water, put it on my hair and sit under the dryer. I would leave my hair in the four sections when using the dryer. If I use my Huetiful steamer, I will put my hair in a bun because I do not use a towel or plastic cap.  It gets warm under the steamer hood. Unfortunately, Huetiful does not sell the steamer anymore.

SecondStep:
I usually sit under the dryer for five to ten minutes, but you can go as long as twenty minutes if you want. With the Huetiful steamer, I go for about twenty minutes.because it has an automatic shut-off.

Third Step:
After I finish steaming, I work through my hair with the Wen cleanser. If I need to add a hair clarifier I will add it only to my scalp. After that I gently detangle with my Quidad hair detangler and clip my hair in four sections and get into the shower. I can rinse my hair and add my favorite conditioner and leave it on for 7-10 minutes while I shower. I gently go through my hair with the Quidad detangler and then slowly go through my hair with the Denman. I have found my hair so soft and detangled and cuts down my length of time in the shower.

This is a good video from CurlyPRoverbz if you do not want to buy a steamer.

I really like my Huetiful steamer, but I had to send my first one back. The second time it worked better, but it still drips so I always wear a towel under the hood. I did not pay full price for it originally. Another Youtuber offered a discount on her page so this was great. I have had the steamer for about 4 years. Even though the Huetiful company doesn’t make the steamer anymore my husband called the company and they gave me a replacement part.

 I have heard great things about the Q-Redew which is a handheld steamer that retails for around $69.95 on Amazon. The reviews seem mixed on the website for the Q-Redew, I have not used it so if you have used it, let me know. Natural Chica did a review, check it out.

13 Reasons You Look Older Than You Are

There are a few wants in life that seem to be universal. People want to have security, to feel thrived by what they’re doing in life, and to look and feel great. All of these things are worthwhile, and as such, none of them come easier. When it comes to looking great, there’s one factor that seems to crop up again and again: looking older than you actually are. The good news is that even if you’re looking past your years now, it doesn’t mean it’ll be that way forever. Below, we take a look at thirteen factors that might be contributing to the issue, and how you can get around the problem. Here’s to looking younger!

Your Diet is Terrible
We know you probably know that “you are what you eat,” but there’s a reason you keep on hearing it: it’s true! If you’re looking a little bit lacklustre and older than your true age, it might be because you’re wolfing down too many fast food meals, and not eating enough nutritious fruits and vegetables. It takes a real effort to start eating well; if it’s left on autopilot, then you’ll eat whatever’s most convenient and inexpensive. And those two factors will rarely lead to food that’s good for you. Learn to cook a few simple, nutritious meals, and you’ll be looking your age in no time.

Lack of Sleep
There really is something to be said for getting your beauty sleep. You can’t look or feel your best if you’re continually yawning and wishing for a few more hours in bed. If you’re struggling to get your full 7-8 hours of shuteye a night, it’s worth investigating the reasons why. It might be that your pre-sleep routine isn’t conducive to a restful evening. For example, did you know that having too much screen time before you hit hay will lead to a more disturbed night? Make a vow not to spend hours scrolling through Facebook before bedtime. Instead, read, drink a cup of tea (without caffeine, of course), and prepare yourself for a night of relaxation. You’ll feel great in the morning, and won’t be accelerating the ageing process, either.

Taking on Too Much
And it’s not just your bedtime that’ll affect you. It’s also what you’re doing during the daytime. To look our best, we need to have energy, and if we’re always running around, then we’re going to be sapped pretty quickly – especially if we’re staying up late socialising and then getting up early for a full day of work and more. If you’re feeling a little frazzled, make plans to spend some time at the beach, doing nothing but reading and living the good life. You’ll look younger in no time!

Getting Rid of Grime
You can feel like you’re 25 even when you’re 45; it’s all in the attitude. However, attitude won’t cover up the true giveaway of your age: your skin. As such, it’s important that you’re taking steps to ensure your skin always look refreshed and healthy. If you don’t know where to start, take a read of ‘dead skin cells 101: what causes dead skin to build up?’ You’ll learn some important information about all the small actions – or inactions – that prevent your skin from looking its best. With your new skincare routine in place, you’ll be on your way to taking years off your body.

Your Hair Looks Lifeless
Envious of all those youngsters, who seem to have volume and shine in abundance when it comes to their hair? It’s often overlooked in favor of more obvious factors, but a person’s hair is a big indicator of their age – and can even push them beyond their years. Of course, we’re not just talking about thinning of gray hair (though, that will also age you). We’re talking about dull, lifeless hair; the type of hair that, when people see, assume belongs to an older person.

…And Your Hair Doesn’t Suit You
As well as your hair’s glow, it’s also worth keeping an eye on your hairstyle. It might be that just asking for a different style next time you visit the hairdressers could take years off your look. Everyone can think of a hairstyle that would suit a middle-aged woman, but what if you have one of those haircuts and you’re not quite at that age yet? You’ll be making people think that you’re older than you are, all due to a factor that can easily be changed. Take a look at a few hairstyles that’ll make you look younger, and take them with you to your next hair appointment.

Too Much Sunlight
Now, there’s much to be said for spending long days in the sunshine, soaking up all the best that the summer has to offer. However, though we’ll undoubtedly feel relaxed at the end of the day if we’re not taking proper sun precautions, or we’re spending too many days lounging under a baking sun, then you’re going to age much quicker than a person who limited their time outdoors. It’s one of the fastest “ageing” agents that there is, and also one that people often neglect to give due attention.



You’re Not Your Ideal Weight
Most people don’t look their true age, for one reason: they’re not the weight they should be. That doesn’t just apply to people who have more fat than they should, either; it’s true of people who aren’t eating enough. Moving forward, you should check what your BMI should be, and then take the appropriate steps to ensure you fit into your agreed swing. If your body is as it should be, and you’re living a healthy lifestyle, then you’ll be on your way to looking better.

Exercise and Energy
There is a long list of benefits to exercising regularly, and virtually no drawbacks, other than the time and money it can cost! But really, if you don’t to be prematurely aged, then it’s imperative you’re hitting the gym and making your body the best it can be. This just won’t make you look good: it’ll also give you the necessary amounts of energy. Attitude is a big part of looking young, and if you’re up and mobile all the time, then no one will think you’re older than you are.

Mental Health
Much is asked of us in the 21st century, and it’s no surprise that mental health conditions are on the rise. In fact, things are getting so bad that mental health problems are considered an epidemic. If you’re feeling the strain of life, reach out and get help. While there are more important benefits than looking younger, a clear and healthy mind will give you a zest and spirit that will prevent you looking beyond your years. On a more physiological level, some studies have suggested that depression and other mental illnesses can even actually make you age faster.

Dressing Older
What’s in the wardrobe? Is it the latest fashions, or are they the old items that you know and love, the ones that you feel comfortable in? While there’s something to be said for comfort, those old clothes might make you look older. To stay looking young, you need to have one eye on the latest clothing trends. Though it’s important to note: there is such a thing as dressing too young! As a rule, take a look at what people who are slightly (5-10 years) younger than you are wearing, and copy them – with your own style, of course.

Learning to Relax
Being able to relax is one of the most underrated qualities in human beings. It makes life infinitely easier if you’re body and mind is at peace! You’ll also slow down the ageing process, and get rid of those gray hairs and wrinkles. Of course, “trying to relax” isn’t really advice, because you can’t try to relax: you can just do the things that help you to be ease. If you don’t yet have one of those things, try your hand at the staples: meditation, reading, yoga, long bubble baths, and so on. Once you’re at peace, you won’t care so much about what you look like: but for what it’s worth, you’re likely to have taken a few years off your appearance!

Blame the Parents
Alas, it can’t all be good news. Some things you can change, and some things you can’t. An example of the latter is the genes you inherited from your parents. If they passed on those genes that made you age more quickly, then you’ll be fighting a losing battle. That’s not to say that the advice we’ve offered above won’t help: it will. By taking a proactive approach, you’ll be on your way to undoing that pesky work done to you by your folks!

Final Thoughts
Your appearance isn’t everything; there are much more important things to keep in mind. However, everyone wants to look young and full of life. With the advice above, you’ll be staying looking your fresh best for as long as possible.

 

 

Curly Bangs Are Possible, And Here Is How

When people think of bangs, they usually picture a woman with straight hair. But the reality is that even though you have curly hair, you can still have perfect bangs. Yes, styling bangs can be difficult, and when you have curly hair, it gets even more challenging.

Photo courtesy of ritely.com

But with bangs and curls becoming more and more popular thanks to fashion shows, it is now imperative that you find a way to have curly bangs.Curls are sexy, and there are so many women that wear them in so many different ways. Think of celebrities like Beyonce, Zendaya, Shakira, Tori Kelly and so on. They all have naturally curly hair, and they find a way to utilize it. So, here are some ways you can get curly bangs.

Find a good stylist
There are so many stylists out there. And it is challenging to find a good one. But if you want to have curly bangs, you must find one that understands how to cut and style curly hair. Many stylists make the mistake of leaving no room for the curls to move or form. The result is hanging curls, which eventually ends up in frizzy hair.

One important aspect is your face shape. Each shape demands a different cutting technique. Now, your stylist will probably know this, but it doesn’t hurt to be informed.

For example, you can get heavy bangs for a square-shaped face. The bangs will soften the face, and help you create a dramatic look. This way, you put more focus on your eyes and less on your face shape. Make sure to ask your stylist to make the bangs longer on the sides. The length, however, should stay just below the eyebrows.

If you have a round-shaped face, go for more graphic and thick bangs that fall just above the eyebrows. The trick here is to allow your bangs to create the illusion of a longer face.

Women with an oval face can play with the feminine features of their face. Especially with curly bangs, you need to allow them to fall right below the brow bone. Women with an oval-shaped face can experiment more with the shape of their bangs.

If you have a heart-shaped face, the goal is to avoid super heavy look. You want a side-swept fringe which looks more natural.

Take care of your curly hair
Your hair needs moisture and hydration, same as your body. Some hair experts recommend to think of your hair as a sponge. That means it can hold a certain amount of water. But if you take care of your hair with hydrating products, you will satisfy its thirst for moisture.

As for what type of products to use? Focus on sulfate-free and water-based styling products that will moisturize your curls. In the same time, these products enhance the curls while eliminating frizz. That is 2 in 1 solution right there. Most importantly, avoid sulfates, as they will strip you from the hair’s natural oil.

Invest in a quality diffuser
A simple, round diffuser will allow you to enhance your natural waves and curls. Even though your hair is curly, you still need a diffuser to enhance it. A quality diffuser will make sure of that, without making your hair look frizzy.

When you want to style your hair, go for a no-heat option. Wait for your hair to be approximately 80% dried, and then apply styling gel. When applying hair product, make sure to pin the curl to the top of your hair with a clip. Allow your hair to dry naturally.

 

** This is a guest post from ritely.com

How to Maintain a Healthy Mane

Is your hair your favorite feature? Do you want to keep it looking as beautiful as it is right now, or even better, do you want to make it look even better? Here are some simple things you can incorporate into your beauty routine, which will help you get and maintain a healthy mane:

JT Flower in the hair

Rinse with Apple Cider Vinegar
Before you shampoo your hair, rinse it in apple cider vinegar. Doing so will help to get rid of product build-up and keep your hair in healthy condition. If you also rinse with apple cider vinegar after washing, it will give your hair an extra bit of shine, which is never a bad thing.

Only Shampoo from Roots to Mid-Hair
Instead of shampooing the whole of your head, just apply your product of choice from the roots to the middle of your length. When you rinse it out, the lower part of your hair will still benefit from the shampoo, but you won’t have had to use quite so much product to achieve it.

Use Sulfate- Free Shampoo
Products that contain sulfates will strip all of those important natural oils that keep your hair healthy away, which is why they are best avoided. Here are the best shampoos and conditioners that are sulfate free, and which will help to keep your hair healthy. If you can choose one that is also free of silicones, that will be even better for your lovely mane.

Don’t Brush Hair After Showering
If you can help it, you should never brush your hair when it has just been washed, and it’s still wet. Your hair is weaker at this time than any other, so brushing it can and does cause breakage.

Put Some Honey on It
You might be more used to putting honey on your toast, but putting some of the sticky stuff on your head will not only moisturize your hair and scalp, but it’ll also kill off bacteria that caused dandruff. If you’re worried about your hair getting all sticky and gross – don’t because honey will dissolve in water, leaving you with clean, fresh and silky-smooth hair.

Wash with Cold Water
If you can stand it, washing and conditioning your hair with cold water is the way to go. It will seal in more moisture and make your hair shinier than washing in warm water. I must mention that you should never wash your hair in hot water – that will cause damage and leave your hair sad and dull.

Mask with Coconut Oil
Coating your dry hair with one of the coconut oils at http://www.elle.com/beauty/hair/tips/g8087/coconut-oil-hair-products/, covering it with a shower cap or plastic bag and leaving it for a couple of hours, or even overnight if you can, will leave your hair looking and feeling amazingly soft and it won’t be greasy at all. Just make sure that you shampoo your hair before applying water or you’ll be left with a greasy mess that you won’t be able to do anything with for days!

Keep it Silky
If you want your hair to be silky smooth and free from split ends and broken shafts, t6hen you really do need to invest in a good set of silk pillow cases. Your hair will slip and slide across them, rather than being dragged, so it will be less likely to break or lose moisture.

Use Heat Sparingly
Hairdryers, straighteners, and curling tongs might give your hair great style, but if you use them too often they will dry out, burn and even break your hair. Instead, try to use Velcro rollers or styling serum to style your hair. They might not be quite as convenient, but they will help to prevent damage.

Wash Every Other Day
No matter how much you might want to, you should never really wash your hair every day. Doing so strips the oils from your locks and makes them dry and brittle. Washing your hair every other day, or even less frequently if you can, will leave your natural oils intact and keep your hair looking healthy.

Eat a Healthy Diet
Eating a healthy diet that is high in healthy fats, leafy green, fruits and vegetables will help you grow beautiful hair from the inside out. You’ll notice that your hair is thicker, shinier and more attractive after just a short time eating a clean diet, so why not give it a try.

Do you have a beautiful head of hair? What are the main things you do to keep it that way?

FTC Disclaimer:
This is a collaborative post and may contain affiliate links.

Shea Moisture: Can We All Get Along?

Hi Beautiful People,

JT and Gio

Lord have mercy! There has been so much that has been said this past week about the Shea Moisture controversial ad.
Taking a look at it now after all the words have been said.
If you haven’t been online and seen the ad here it is below.

What are your thoughts?
My first reaction to the video was this is going to be a video about hair stories and how women have conquered their hair hate. I saw one woman of color tell her story of being teased for the kind of hair she had; and then gaining acceptance of her hair. I do know her curls were loosely textured. One article said the woman in the ad was multi-racial. Maybe, I do not know. Heck, my curls are the same texture and my parents were not two different ethnicities. Then the video cut to two caucasian women, one who briefly talk about hair color and the other one not knowing what to do with her hair.

Will Shea Moisture be carrying a hair coloring line?
I am like, hmmmm…

 I have been using Shea Moisture products for a couple of years now. The company wanted to expand its market to include women of all colors who have hair issues. I think diversifying their products is a great idea. However, I believe that this ad did not portray what the Shea Moisture company wanted it to convey. The first model was the only one holding the product. There is no mention of what products the other models used or how they used the products or what Shea Moisture meant to them. Simply put, it was bad editing of a much larger story that was not included in the final product. Take a look at the video below that was released one month before the controversial video aired. This video include good editing and is a good example of hair stories and conquering them. This video was on their Youtube channel and is dated March 28, 2017.

I have heard that the Shea moisture products ingredients have changed; but in this video the owner says that they have not. Take a look at this video below that features an interview where the owner addresses the controversy, how the company is looking to expand its market ,and talks about the products themselves.

I have noticed that some people are talking about Shea Moisture but have not used any of the products. There is freedom of speech and everyone can have an opinion.

I wanted to share an image of the Shea Moisture hair products in my closet.

Shea Moisture Hair Products

1 jar Shea Moisture Yucca & Baobab Anti-Breakage Masque
1 jar Shea Moisture Raw Shea Butter Deep Treatment Masque w/Sea Kelp & Argan Oil
1 jar Shea Moisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Curl Enhancing Smoothie w/ Silk Protein & Neem Oil Thick, Curly Hair – Using this up and probably will not be purchasing because I am starting to make my own cream.
2 jars of Shea Moisture Jamaican Black Castor Oi Strengthen, Grow & Restore Leave-in Conditioner w/Shea Butter, Peppermint & Keratin
1  container of Shea Moisture Organic Raw Shea Butter Restorative Conditioner w/Sea Kelp, Argan Oil, & Shea Butter for Dry, Damaged hair (Almost all gone)
1 Spritzer of Shea moisture Tahitian Noni & Monoi Smooth & Repair High Shine Glosser w/ Keratin, Peptides, and Botanical Extracts
1 Shea Moisture Coconut & Hibiscus KIDS Extra Moisturizer Detangler w/Slippery & Marshmallow Extracts

Shea Moisture has a full line of products that are not  only hair care products. I actually have more Bath and Beauty products in my closet. The bubble baths, the hand and body scrubs, and the soaps are a regular part of my bath regime. I even like to mix the bubble bath scents.

Shea Moisture Bath and Body Products

1 bar of Shea Moisture Coconut & Hibiscus Shea Butter Soap
1 bar of Shea Moisture Coconut & Hibiscus dry oil mist
1 bar of Shea Moisture Coconut & Hibiscus Bath, Body & Massage oil
1 Shea Moisture Fruit Fusion Energizing Bubble Bath & Body Wash
1 Shea Moisture Fruit Fusion Energizing Body Lotion
1 Shea Moisture Superfruit Complex Bath, Body & Massage oil w/ Mango Butter & Green Coffee Bean Extract
1 Shea Moisture Fruit Fusion Energizing Hand & Body Scrub
1 Shea Moisture Lavender & Wild Orchid Bubble Bath & Body Wash w/ Shea Butter
1 Shea Moisture Raw Shea & Cupuacu Daily Defense Bubble Bath & Body Wash w/ Passiflora & Pistachio Oils
1 Shea Moisture Raw Shea & Cupuacu Daily Defense Hand & Body Scrub w/ Passiflora & Pistachio Oils
1 Shea Moisture Argan Oil & Raw Shea Dry oil mist w/ Frankincense & Myrrh

There has been a lot of talk about the company that now owns and partners with Shea Moisture, but I am not talking about that company in this post ( It’s a lot about them online)  because the Owner and Founder Richelieu Dennis is still answering to the mission and brand of the company. Dennis (Shea Moisture) offered an apology that was on its Instagram page. Please read below. It comes across as sincere.

Wow, okay – so guys, listen, we really f-ed this one up. Please know that our intention was not – and would never be – to disrespect our community, and as such, we are pulling this piece immediately because it does not represent what we intended to communicate. You guys know that we have always stood for inclusion in beauty and have always fought for our community and given them credit for not just building our business but for shifting the beauty landscape. So, the feedback we are seeing here brings to light a very important point. While this campaign included several different videos showing different ethnicities and hair types to demonstrate the breadth and depth of each individual’s hair journey, we must absolutely ensure moving forward that our community is well-represented in each one so that the women who have led this movement never feel that their hair journey is minimized in any way. We are keenly aware of the journey that WOC face – and our work will continue to serve as the inspiration for work like the Perception Institute’s Good Hair Study/Implicit Association Test that suggests that a majority of people, regardless of race and gender, hold some bias towards women of color based on their textured or natural hair. So, you’re right. We are different – and we should know better. Thank you all, as always, for the honest and candid feedback. We hear you. We’re listening. We appreciate you. We count on you. And we’re always here for you. Thank you, #SheaFam, for being there for us, even when we make mistakes. Here’s to growing and building together…

A post shared by SheaMoisture (@sheamoisture) on

Will I stop using Shea Moisture products? No. This promotion has been going on since March, I think this was just bad editing of a much larger campaign by the company. Please take a look at the full campaign here –> EverybodyGetsLove

I do not use many of Shea Moisture hair products because everything is not 100% natural. I really like the leave-in, but it is not 100% natural. Instead I have been looking into making my own leave-in.

Let me know your thoughts about the ad. Has your opinion of Shea Moisture changed since this ad aired? Do you even use any Shea Moisture products? Will you continue to use the products in the future? It will be interesting to see what Shea Moisture next campaign ad will be in the coming months.

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NOT DEAD YET STYLE