How To Add Strength and Shine to Your Hair

Hello Beautiful People,

JT using Sheilo products

JT using Sheilo products

I hope you have had a wonderful Christmas and New Years Day. The Christmas Holiday was rainy and warm. It had felt more like springtime than winter. With El Nino throwing the weather patterns all out of whack, you just don’t know what to expect from day to day. With the warmer and balmy days with higher humidity, my hair can get frizzy. It is these days when I need a good frizz control product to add to my hair to keep down the poof. All hair products are not created equal and are not good for my hair. Many times, frizz products can contain alcohol or will make your hair feel tacky. I have to be selective and oh so cautious about what I put into my hair.

Shielo offers a Frizz Control Shine Restoration Oil that retails for $34.99 on its website. It does not leave my hair feeling sticky or tacky. I put in on my freshly-cleansed hair right out of the shower. I do not use the oil with any heat tools in my hair. I have been chemical free and relaxer free for more than six years and my hair is naturally curly.

Shielo’s website says the Shine Restoration Oil:
SMOOTHES, SOFTENS AND ADDS SHINE
CERTIFIED ORGANIC INGREDIENTS, PARABEN FREE. 1 OZ 30 ML
Premium hair oil for restoration of shine and smoothness. Speeds up drying time by 40%. Its color enhancement properties last long term, and it increases hair manageability and removes frizz. Protects from heat styling. Users can expect significant results after one use. Long term use reverses damage caused by chemical treatments, heat styling and coloring. For all hair types.
– adds strength and promotes hair healing
– renews the hair cell structure
-heat wave technology protects the cuticle.

JTshielo

JT after using the Shielo Shine Restoration Oil

When I style my hair, I add a couple of pumps to the palm of my hair, rub my hands together and apply to my hair as I style it. I wear my hair more naturally curly but also straight on occasion. The product does not feel hard in my hair and smells earth and clean.  The oil contains paraben-free organic ingredients. Some of my favorite ingredients include apple fruit extract, lemon fruit extract, lemon peel extract, sugar cane extract and cocoa extract. I would recommend this product because the restoration oil does not flake, does not feel oily, goes in my hair quickly and leaves my hair feeling smooth and not hard.

JTwisdom signature

DISCLAIMER:
Shielo provided BUBBLINGWITHELEGANCEANDGRACE.COM with one bottle of the Frizz Control Shine Restoration Oi to write this review. We received no monetary compensation and all opinions are honest and strictly our own.

DIY: Avocado Smoothie Deep Hair Conditioner

Hi Beautiful People,

Hope you are having a wonderful day!

I enjoy making DIY products for my hair and body. There is something about making your own products that is so gratifying and satisfying. It is something about fall and cool weather is a wonderful time to make products for yourself, family and friends. A few months back, my hubby and I made a DIY hair treatment with avocado and oils. It took little time to get it right, but it turned out good.  The avocados were a little old, so the color wasn’t a bright green and the blender didn’t blend as smooth as I would have wanted. In spite of this, the treatment made our hair shiny and soft.

Today, we wanted to try the recipe again; but used fresh avocados and a better blender. The difference was amazing and very noticeable.

My hubby bought avocados through Fruit my Cube; which will deliver fresh fruits and vegetables to workplace every Monday. Last week, avocados were on sale and the first thing we thought of was Deep Hair Conditioner, not Guacamole Dip.

We recently upgraded our blender when we bought a Wolfgang Puck commercial blender. We really like the quality of this blender and its power is awesome. It rivals the expensive blenders; but it costs about a third of the price. This was the first time we had a chance to try the Avocado Deep Hair Treatment recipe.

Wolf Gang Puck Blender

Wolf Gang Puck Blender

1) I collected some of my oils I wanted to add for softness and shine.

Oils

Oils

Oils

4 Tsp. Extra Virgin Olive Oil
10 Tsp. Macadamia Nut Oil
10 Tsp. African Royale Hot Six Oil
10 – 15 Tsp. CoCasta Shikakai Oil by Hairveda
10 Tsp. Jojoba Oil
4 Tsp. Carol’s Daughter Khoret Amen Softening Hair Oil

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Cutting of the Avocados

2) I cut open the Avocados and put them in the blender.

Avocado in the blender

Avocado in the Wolfgang Puck blender

3) I blend the avocados in the blender and added the oils. If it is not blending well, add more oil and pulse until you get a creamy, almost whipped cream consistency.

Creamy-Avocado-Deep-Hair-Conditioner

Creamy-Avocado-Deep-Hair-Conditioner

4) I put into containers and freeze. When I am ready to condition my hair, I will let the mixture unthaw in the Fridgerator a day or two.

Avocado-Hair-Treatment-in-the-Container

Avocado-Hair-Treatment-in-the-Container

I usually leave the deep conditioner on my hair for 45 minutes and rinse before cleansing my hair. If you would like to do another rinse, you can; but the key is to blend the oil and avocados in the blender well enough so no pieces of avocado are prevalent.

You don’t have to use the oils I use. If you have favorites, please add them in. You can add in honey, coconut oil, the options are endless.

If you use the recipe please let us know  your results. If you have your own recipe, please let me know.

JTwisdom signature

Please note: If you are expecting or taking medications please check with your doctor to make sure oils are okay for you to use in your hair.

The Benefits of Laser Hair Removal

For most people, finding a way to enhance the look they have is an ongoing search and something they take very seriously. There are a number of ways you can enhance and keep up your look, which means you will need to do some research to find the best methods for your needs. One of the biggest problems most people have when trying to keep their appearance of is getting rid of unsightly hair. Among the best ways to get rid of this unsightly hair is through laser removal. The following are a few of the benefits of laser hair removal in Toronto.

Photo courtesy of hairfreeclinics.com

Photo courtesy of hairfreeclinics.com

Possibly Permanent
One of the biggest benefits you can gain when using this type of treatment is the possibility it could be permanent. For some people, the longer they undergo this type of treatment the slower their hair will begin to come back. In some cases, this could turn into a permanent solution, which will help to save you a lot of time and trouble. You need to speak with the professionals you are using to see what type of advice they have on slowing down the growth of your hair.

Helps to Save Money and Time
Another benefit you can take advantage of when using this method of hair removal is it will save you time and money. Having waxing done will only offer you a few days or a week’s worth of smoothness. Using this method will make you have to go back time and time again in order to keep the right results. By using the power of lasers, you will be able to have your hair free parts stay that way. The time and money you can save by using laser treatments will be well worth it.

Short and Painless
Yet another advantage you can gain by using this treatment is the fact that it is very painless and takes a short amount of time. The last thing that anyone wants to do is sit in a chair all day while having a hair removal process done. Although this process does not take a lot of time, it is very successful and can help you to get rid of the unsightly hairs you have. Make sure you take your time to find the right professional to administer this type of treatment for you. The time and effort you put into this process will be more than worth it in the end.

Photo courtesy of hairfreeclinics.com

Photo courtesy of hairfreeclinics.com

If you are in need of high-quality laser hair removal, then be sure to call Hair Free Clinics. They have been in the business for many years and can offer you the service you need. Call them or go to their website for more information.

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Growing Your Hair Longer With These Steps

JT

JT

Some people are fortunate enough to have long luscious hair. But, if you want to ensure that your hair is thick and full of life, there are some easy ways that you can do this. Of course, having a great head of hair is not everything. But, ladies, let’s be honest here, we are all guilty of wanting fabulous hair. I regularly post about my hair and what styles I am trying out. When it comes to growing our hair though, that can be something different altogether!

There are some steps that you can take to ensure that you have beautifully long hair. It may take a couple of months, but it will certainly be worth it.

Here are five of my tips for long hair success.

Ditch Silicone Based Shampoos
Many of the cheaper brands of shampoo are loaded with chemicals. Namely, silicone. Silicone is what gives your hair that super shiny look. But, if you want to grow your hair and have a luscious head of curls, you need to ditch the shampoos that contain this ingredient. As silicone is a chemical, it does not promote growth. Rather, it leaves your hair weakened and more susceptible to frizz and damage. Sadly, all silicone does is put a mirror-like shine on your hair. It’s not good for growth, and it certainly doesn’t make for healthy hair. Ditch it and replace it with natural shampoos. Once your hair stops breaking, it will grow quicker and longer.

Try not to Cleanse your Hair Everyday
For some hair textures cleansing hair everyday can dry it out.  I wash my hair once a week. My hair is naturally curly, so moisture has to  stay in and it would be completely dried out. If your hair retains moisture and you need to wash your hair everyday, try cleansing conditioners that will not take all the oil out of your hair. In the picture above my hair color last so long because I do not use shampoo except for clarifying once a month.

Use Oils and Lotions to Promote Healthy Hair Growth
According to Hair Growth Helper, there are a number of ways that you can make your hair grow. It’s all about using the right treatments on your hair. Coconut oil is a firm favourite. But, it can be messy to apply. Sephren-based products are perfect for ladies that are prone to thin or fine hair. By applying this kind of lotion to your scalp, on a weekly basis you will give your hair the boost that it needs. It can help repair a damaged scalp that is all that you need to promote healthy growth.

Scalp Massages
This is a bonus on nights of a long day at work. Scalp massages with your favorite oil relaxes you, but it also simulates your scalp.

Eat a Protein-Rich Diet
There is no replacement for a proper diet. You need to make sure that you are eating a balanced diet to see maximum results in the hair department. But, I’ll let you in on a little secret: protein. Protein is essential for all kinds of things. Especially, if you are the kind of person that likes to exercise and work out. Protein is the ultimate natural remedy for your hair. Your hair is made up of protein. So, if you want to give your hair a new lease of life, make it stronger, healthy and more vital, it’s time to up your protein intake. Eggs, chicken and fish, are all tasty, healthy, and jam packed with awesome proteins that make your hair look fabulous.
If you have allergies to eggs, nuts, chicken or fish,  an alternative you could try are avocados to eat or use them with your favorite oil as a great deep conditioner

JT

JT

The Final Word…
Growing your hair doesn’t have to be an ordeal. Use this handy five-step guide to amazingly thick and luscious locks in no time at all!
Be patient with your hair because this is a journey that will reap rewards over time. You have to find what works best for you because what works for someone else may not gel with your hair regime.  Do your research.

Do you have any hair care secrets or tips? I’d love to hear from you!

This outfit is a hoot!

Hi Lovely Readers,

JT

  I actually saw snow flurries today, so you will be seeing a winter post this week for sure. I am a spring baby, however fall and winter is my favorite seasons.

When I bought this sweater from Old Navy a couple of years ago, I thought the owl  sweater was so cute. I wore the sweater with a black Macy’s shirt underneath for a layering effect. The sweater was on clearance at the time and I couldn’t resist purchasing it.  It was less than ten dollars, a real deal.

JT

My Jeans are from NYDJ (Not Your Daughters Jeans) and the fit is slimming and the material is very soft. I really am self-conscious of my thighs, so finding jeans have been difficult for me.  I don’t have the model figure and I bet many of a modeling agents would say what the world is she modeling clothes on a blog for the world to see. I see the magazines that have these beautiful statuesque women who model the clothes in Vogue, Elle and have legs that go a mile long.  Do I have mile long legs? No, but I don’t answer to anyone but God. He created me and if I can get on here and do articles about how I style my outfits; hopefully I can reach out to people to let them know that God made everyone beautiful in His eyes and there is no need to compare.
Okay, I am stepping down from my soapbox.

My Born boots are from DSW and they really give me a uniqueness and a style all my own. And my handbag is my trusty Kathy Van Zeeland that works with any ensemble.

I have been embracing my curls for almost five years now. I bought the earrings below at a hair show in Chicago. The earrings are a little heavy but I had to get them because the words on the earrings speak volumes.

Embrace Your Curls

My curls are defined and look pretty good.  I have been without a relaxer for almost five years and I still have my moments when it comes to certain products. I may try something new or I think my hair routine is okay and I am like what happened with that.  It is a journey and a good one that I am glad to be a part of. My hair is thicker, longer and healthier for not having my hair chemical relaxed.  I have nothing against my relaxed sisters, but I am speaking for only myself because I decided to go natural in June 2009.
I had no idea my hair was this curly.

Curls Curls Curls

The added accessories finish the look.

The accessories

This outfit is a favorite of mine because I added a bit of whimsy. The owl sweater looks youthful without looking childish. There is a difference  between looking youthful and looking childish.  Having a youthfulness about you creates energy, joy and excitement.  I don’t want to look childish, for the simple fact I am not trying to look like I am 15.
However, I want to be energetic, chic and stylish. Another added bit of charm is a smile.

JT

The accessories:

Bracelet: Studio Barse
Tigers Eye Bead Bracelet
Emerald Green Ring: Berricle
Drusy Ring
Handbag: Kathy Van Zeeland
Boots: Born
Sneakers: BCBG
Fragrance: Fabulous by Isaac Mizrahi

JTwisdom

Hair Diaries: Flat Ironing My Hair

This is a record for me on how I straighten my hair.  I only straighten my hair once or twice a month and when I do, I like for it to look smooth.  I have tried many different methods; but this one is the only one that worked very well. I am making sure I record this so I specifically know what I did to make my hair look and and feel the way I want it to when it’s straightened.

Getting started

Cleanse and Condition

Hair is in 4 sections clipped (two sections on each side)

Cleanse hair in the shower

WEN Gardenia and Green Tea

As I am Co-wash Conditioning Cleanser

I did a first cleanse with Wen and a second cleanse  with As I am

Gentle detangle with Quidad detangler comb

Gently run the Denman 9 row brush through each section under running water in the shower.

I do not dry my hair with a towel I gently put it back in the four sections with plastic clips.

Before blow dry prep

Two dime size amounts  Cleansing Conditioner and Fig Styling Creme of the on each section.

Wen Gardenia and Green Tea Cleansing Conditioner ( Can be used as a leave in conditioner.)

WEN Fig Styling Creme

Carol’s Daughter Chocolat Smoothing blow dry cream

Add Monoi Tiki Tahiti Tiare oil

Blow dry with T3 Blow Dryer with nozzle attachment on low and bursts of cool.

Take small sections  and use a wide tooth comb and T3 Brushes for blow drying.

After blowing drying each section put a dime amount of the Monoi oil on each section for moisturization.

Flat iron

Corlisse Flat iron with temperature of 350-356 degrees

Corlisse Titanium Flat iron

Take small sections of hair

Add a small amount of Ojon Damage Reverse Hair Serum to each section before flat ironing.

Ojon Damage Reverse

Make sure to run through gently the wide tooth comb or  bone come and  T3 brush through hair while running the flat iron through for smoothness. With this method I only have to go through my hair once with the flat iron.