Curly Nikki | Natural Hair Styles and Curly Hair Care

A jar of Kinky Curly Curling Custard is up for grabs...tune in first thing tomorrow morning for the details.

Hint: Think haiku...

Remember Moniero's gorgeous Bantu Knot-Out? Well, she's back to share her routine and beauty secrets with the CN.com community!

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CN: How long have you been natural?
M: This is actually my second time starting my journey. I started cutting my relaxed ends in April of 2007, and have been completely natural since June 2007. I started with less than an inch of hair.

CN: What is your regimen?
M: My current regimen consists of co-washing once a week. Thanks to Curly Nikki, my staple conditioner is Herbal Essence Hello Hydration. In the shower, I co-wash in sections (4 total), and rinse the conditioner completely out. I then get out of the shower and apply my deep conditioner. Currently, I am using Aubrey Organics Honey Suckle Rose with Jessicurl Deep Treatment or Curl Junkie Hibiscus & Banana with Honey Suckle Rose. I then sit under a hooded dryer for 15 minutes. After, the dryer I just use a towel to seal in the heat for another 15 minutes. I make sure to deep condition weekly, because my hair dries out easily. Since, my hair is so soft after deep conditioning, this is when I detangle. My comb just glides through my hair like butter. Next, I get back in the shower and rinse the deep conditioners out. Reminder: my hair is still in 4 sections. The final step is to apply Giovanni Direct Leave-In with Jessicurl Deep Treatment to my ends, and start braiding. I usually have about 13 braids.

Also, I do a Jamila Henna treatment once a month. I use Curly Nikki's henna mixture.

CN: What is the one thing you'd tell a newbie to help her on her journey?
M: Deep condition weekly, and don't compare your hair or texture to others. Do what your hair likes, and don't be afraid of trial and error.

CN: How do you maintain length?
M: My hair has grown so much in these two years. I make sure to deep condition weekly, mositurize my ends nightly (Shea butter), and trim only when needed.

CN: What do you do to your hair at night to preserve your curls?
M: I try to re-braid my hair every night. I section my hair in four, and do four flat braids. When I wear an updo, I just wrap my hair up in a silk scarf. On lazy days, I sleep on a sating pillow case with my hair out.

CN: What's the best thing about being naturally glamorous?!
M: My hair is different. My hair allows me to separate myself from typical stereotypes. I love being natural, and I love seeing other natural women.

Thanks Curly Nikki for all that you do!





Want to see more of the fabulous Moniero? Check out her Fotki!

I can't wait to see how you curly girls weigh in on this one!

M. Samples writes:

Hi, Nikki:

I know you sometimes ask for topics for discussion and I had one that just came to mind while watching TV and doing some reading for a graduate class:

It seems to me, that a lot of TV ads that feature black people use black models/actors with natural hair. I think it's overwhelmingly so to the point where I was surprised to see a black woman with permed hair in a Special K commercial. Why do you (and fellow readers) think that is? I'm wondering who does the casting and how they pick these black models/actors? Also, who decides that they represent the beauty ideal that the rest of us (and even the permies) will identify with?

Keep in mind that I'm very happy to see natural hair represented in these commercials. Was just wondering whether anyone else has noticed this trend too...

Thought provoking, huh?! What do you think?

As promised.....we got ALLISON! I recently caught up with the curly College Hill star and she dished all. Check it out!

CN: Tell us your hair story!
Allison: Oh damn, haha. It took me 19 years to figure out my hair. In elementary school my music teacher would tease me and say I had a bird's nest on my head. My mom never really knew how to style my hair (she's white-- I'm mixed) and it pretty much sat on the top of my head as a huge frizzball. Middle school I kept it hella gelled and pulled back; I just didn't know how to style it!

CN: Your hair is HUGE and friggin awesome! I tuned in to every episode of this season's CH just to see how you were wearing those curls. What is your current routine?
Allison: Haha. Thanks! Well, basically I wash my hair once a week, but condition it every day. While in the shower, I put the conditioner in my hair and then comb it through with a wide toothed comb, let it sit for five minutes, then rinse with cool water. After that, I comb my curls apart with my fingers to separate the curls, then towel dry by patting the excess moisture out. And then I put in a leave in conditioner.

CN: Two products you can't live without?
Allison: Have you watched the show and noticed the random Dr. Miracle's product placement shots that appear in every episode? Yeah, I use that stuff, but not because they were sponsors! I was skeptical at first, but after using the deep conditioning treatment, I was hooked! It actually does help control the frizz induced by Miami's constant 100% humidity. Also, I always apply the Anti-Breakage Strengthening Cream after I get out of the shower to help fight away the frizzies. You can actually sort of tell the point through the episodes of when I didn't use the products and when I did (unruly frizz vs defined curls).

CN: Do you feel that your natural hair has ever helped or hindered your chances of achieving a goal- be it in the entertainment industry or academic?
Allison: I love my hair! It sets me apart from the rest of the people in the industry-- especially in the music realm as a classically-trained flutist. Everyone knows me by my hair. Once, I went to campus with flat ironed hair, and every time I said hi to people, they looked quizically until they realized that was me! People recognize the hair before my face.

CN: What advice would you give to a natural newbie?
Allison: Have some patience and go with the flow! It will take some time to try to find a routine that yields the best results-- trust me. But when you do figure it out, I promise you'll get nothing but compliments! Here's one quick fix that I use: if you're having a bad hair day, secure your hair up in a high ponytail, and poof out the top a bit. It actually makes a cute hairstyle.

CN: Now that College Hill is over and done, what's next?
Allison: Do you like classical music? Probably not. Haha. TV really isn't my thing; it was more of something I kind of stumbled into. Instead of trying to forge a career in a sector that celebrates the Milans and the Brandons and Kyles, I plan on putting my life back into the classical music scene.

CN: Anything else you'd like to add?
Allison: This was fun! Thanks for asking me to be on this interview and I hope it helps!

I first envisioned myself strutting down the entrance to a club. All eyes turning towards me as I confidently walked toward the doors. My smile was coy, seductive and when I turned my head just right, you could catch a glimpse of midnight perfection on the side of the messy, but oh so glamorous bun I adorned my curls in. That midnight perfection that did nothing but jazz up my already beautiful tresses was getting the attention and envy of every man and woman in the room.

She goes on to discuss how she'd rock her Original to the grocery store, to the cafe, and at work. She ends her submission with the following:

I'm a simple girl and all these looks are the epitome of me, simple girly chic (I'm pretty sure I made that up lol) but a tiny adjustment can make us stand out in the crowd more than we already do with our gorgeous big curls. I love big hair and I love to jazz it up with beautiful, simple pieces.


There are many more Giveaways in the works...stay tuned curlies!

Hola Chicas!

Big thanks to each and everyone of you for your submissions! I'll most certainly be incorporating all of your excellent ideas into future posts. Now, for the winner.....

Drum roll please......

On December 5th, 2005 - AnitaGrant.com was created, by the all round self-proclaimed-cosmetic-label-reader-ingredient junkie-mixtress, Anita. Her product line is nothing short of AMAZING! I recently caught up with Anita in order to ask her four of my most burning questions.

CN: What is your natural hair story?
Anita: It all began in 2005, after my hands were blistered by a “safe synthetics” hair lotion containing propylene glycol, a popular chemical used in most Afro hair care beauty products. Having that traumatic experience with a store-bought product made me realize the position that the big corporate beauty companies essentially hold their customers in — a position of ignorance when it comes to ingredients listed on a label.

So I began to loiter the Oils sections at my grocers, purchasing all that I could afford. I moved onto the dried herbs section, then the baking section in search of humectants like honey and exfoliants like bicarbonate of soda, brown sugar, sea salts, and softeners like organic cocoa powder. I used all of these ingredients in my hair and on my skin with great success.

Then I came across Nappturality.com's Homemade forum where there were others who also shared the same concerns as I did regarding off the shelf products.
It was a blessing to share recipes, advice and tips about natural hair care.

CN: What is your current hair regimen?
Anita: I like to keep it simple:

Trim once a month
Shampoo once a week with either my Babassu Peppermint or Amla shampoo bars
Rhassoul Deep Condish once a week.
Cassia Obovata once a month follow up with a final rinse of Blue Malva

In the summer:
I spritz my hair with Organic Rose Water and lock in the moisture with Creamy Café Latte

In the winter:
I spritz my hair with homemade Organic Burdock Root and Organic Blue Malva water. To lock in moisture I use Whipped Butter Monoi de Tahiti every day.


I plait or twist my hair every night and use a little Organic Sapote & Castor Hair Oil on the ends then I tuck in the whole plait or twist to make it look as if I have little Bantu knots. The scarves, pillow cases and caps just didn't work for me. Plaiting or a protective style at night that is easy to undo in the morning works best for me.



CN: What your 3 favorite ingredients, and why?
Anita: Organic Virgin Coconut Oil because it is the only oil that is known to be able to penetrate the hair shaft. All of my Organic Vanilla Oils because of the softness it adds to my skin and the natural aroma of Vanilla is simply intoxicating. Organic Rose and Jasmine Hair and Body Oil again I love the sultry Organic Rose and Jasmine Absolute blend. It's an ideal rejuvenating massage treatment for me. Jasmine absolute, in itself, is a voluptuous; intensely rich, deep, floral aroma that when mixed with Organic Rose just provides the most sumptuous oil blend I have to offer.

CN: What is the secret to properly moisturized hair?
Anita: In my opinion:
1. Spritzing with a fresh, home made blend of mucilage rich organic herbs or organic floral water.
2. Locking in the moisture with a natural oil or butter.
3. Plaiting or twisting your hair before bed.
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The lovely Anita Grant is sponsoring a Giveaway!

The 20th person to send me a list of 5 topics you'd like to see discussed/reviewed on CurlyNikki.com, will receive the gift basket below! Submit your suggestions to nikki@curlynikki.com, with 'Anita Grant' as the subject line. Check back later, because I'll be announcing the winner on the site !

"The Shampoo, Rinse & Deep Condish Goodie Box"
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2 x Rhassoul Deep Condish Hearts
1 x 110 gram of Babassu Unscented Shampoo bar
1 x 25 gram box of mucilage rich Irish Moss for a final herbal rinse

Good luck!

Hola Chicas,

While twisting my hair for the week, I realized that there are several things I do to ensure that the next Monday through Thursday can be classified as good hair days. Check out the list below...I'll be sure to add to it if I can think of anything else.

• Apply your leave-in conditioner while you're still in the shower to assure thorough distribution and slip. Also, be sure to pass your head back under the shower stream one last time before stepping out. Good, even distribution results in a consistent wave pattern that is relatively frizz free.
  

• Keep the hair soaking wet while twisting -- this keeps the hair super slippery and pliable. You'll lose less hair during the process, and it results in a smooth, shiny twist-out.
  

• Start twisting as close to the root as possible. This is CRUCIAL! Until recently, I used to just grab the hair and start twisting...not paying much attention to the roots. Now, the shape and pattern of my waves are much more consistent. Also, be sure to secure the roots with duck bill clips-- it keeps the hair from unraveling.
  

• The bigger the twist, the looser the wave (8 to 12 twists). Smaller twists yield a tighter wave pattern (12 to as many as you have time to do!).
  

• Make sure the twists are COMPLETELY dry before taking them down. Damp twists result in fuzzy, un-defined twist-outs.
  

• Style the twist-out with your fingers to preserve the wave pattern and prevent the frizzies.

Add your helpful tips in the comment section!

Later Gators,
Nik

CN: Were you a long term or short term transitioner, and why?

PICS:
The first one is from my relaxed days and before the first cut.
The second one is me with the pixie cut (back view) w/ the texturizer.
The third one is my BC picture.
The fourth one is about a week after my bc.
The fifth and sixth is my natural hair now.





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Lost_one needs our help! Check out her question below:

My hair isn't that long but I would like to try coils or a twist out but they won't stay. They keep coming unraveled. I am limited with my style options so I was wondering if maybe you or your readers could give me some advice on the products to use especially for a coil out. Is my hair too short? Please let me know what you think. Thanks again!!!

I personally don't think her hair is too short for twists. Perhaps making them smaller will prevent unraveling. Also, a light gel or styler may be necessary. What do you guys think?!

Hi there,

First, let me say that I love your site! Your hair is so healthy and pretty. I also enjoy your pictorials (especially the Henna). My name is Ayanna and I live in Atlanta. I have been natural for 3 years – but I’ve just started wearing my natural hair on a regular basis this year (I gave up wigs/weaves for Lent this year).

Going natural was a flip decision that has changed my life. In college, I was a hair model and traveled monthly to hair shows. One day, one of my roommates suggested that I stop relaxing my hair to hide it under a weave all day. She asked me, “Do you ever plan to wear your hair?” and I said “Sure, when it looks just like the weave!” I realized then that my hair would probably never look like the 3c weave I’d been wearing and made the small step to stop relaxing the front and nape of my hair.

After I stopped relaxing my hair, the natural hair thing kinda snowballed for me. I cut off all of the relaxed hair and asked the stylist to install a closure with my next weave. I graduated and downgraded to wigs for awhile. On a whim, one day I put my hair in some Mickey Mouse puffs and headed out the door. It was so weird! I received so many unexpected compliments. People even said I looked younger.

So, now I’m trying to figure out my texture and regimen. I’m in to trying new things. Right now, I’m into Henna and MegaTek and I hope for pleasant results.

Would you pay $138 dollars to have your curls treated with bull semen?

They say you should never say never...but I'm also a PJ, lol. If they promised me bigger, fuller hair, devoid of splits, I would at least mull it over a bit!

Here's the link from NaturallyCurly.com -- http://www.naturallycurly.com/curlreading/ingredients/bull-semen-the-latest-hair-miracle

But yeah...no, I don't think I'll be seeking out semen treatments any time soon...what about you?!

Later Gators,
Nik

Hola Chicas,

Several CN.com members informed me of a recent lawsuit against Garnier...apparently, they don't like Black folks...or Asians...or Arabs. Dammit Garnier!

Here's the link: http://business.timesonline.co.uk/tol/business/industry_sectors/consumer_goods/article6572173.ece

While the entire article is disturbing and unfortunate, this passage stood out:

"That image already suffered a battering when L’Oréal executives were forced to deny claims that they had lightened the singer Beyoncé Knowles’s skin for a campaign last year. The ruling also hinted at widespread prejudice among French shoppers since L’Oréal believed that they were more likely to buy shampoo from white sales staff, the court was told. "

I had a sneaking suspicion that they altered her skin tone for those commercials! At first glance, she looked like a white woman...her skin and hair were nearly the same color. Ridiculous.

Anyway, I'm not sure how I feel at this point. As a child, I remember my parents boycotting Denny's and Shell Gas stations for similar reasons. Tell me what you think -- if S&S gives you fabulous results, would you give it up due to the this recent news?

Later Gators,
Nik

p.s. I picked up the newly formulated Sleek and Shine yesterday at Walgreens. I haven't tried it yet...I wonder if it works as well as the old one does. This is a henna weekend, so I won't be able to provide a review until Monday.

Continuing our series on product ingredients - carrier oils.

Carrier oils are oil extracts from seeds, fruit, vegetables or nuts that are rich hair emollients (moisturizers). They can also be used to “carry” essential oils, which are either too concentrated or will evaporate upon contact on their own, into the hair.

Unlike essential oils, carrier oils, which are also known as "base" oils", do not usually carry a strong scent of their own and are classified as "fixed' oils, meaning they do not typically evaporate. They can have many health properties of their own as they often contain vitamins, minerals and some essential fatty acids.

Cold-pressed oils, where the oil obtained from seeds and nuts is extracted using little to no heat, is a more expensive process, but the oils produced are considered to be a superior quality in many applications. Carrier oils produced by using a procedure called "hot extraction", in which extremely high temperatures are used to extract the oil, are often regarded as inferior as much of the oil's benefits are destroyed in the process.

Carrier oils are also available in refined and unrefined forms. Although unrefined oils are preferred in massage therapy and certain practices of aromatherapy, refined oils are generally chosen for use in cosmetic preparations so their heavier color and texture does not compete with any other ingredients.

Because carrier oils are oily in nature, they are included in many hair care products to supply additional moisture to the hair shaft. In hair care products with more natural formulations, they are considered a better base than alcohol, which can be drying, and can also assist in combating breakage, splitting and tangling.

Next week: fatty and short-chain alcohols

For more of Tiffany, check out her fabulous site, HERE.

Ladies, meet KeetaRay. A 2008 transitioner with a head full of lovely kinks and curls!
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CN: Were you a long term or short term transitioner, and why?
I guess you could consider it long-term. I went 8 months. My last perm was March 2008 and I did my BC in November 2008 with about 4 inches of new growth. I wanted to have a little bit of hair to work with.

CN: When did you BC? What was your initial reaction to your natural hair?
November 2008. I was "shocked" for a few minutes, but I put my headband and wore my little fro and LOVED it ever since.

CN: What was your transition routine (products included)?
I did full sew-in weaves, or slicked-back low ponytails/buns until my BC. I read about the effects of heat damage and opted not to straighten too much during my transition. I used the same products as when I was completely relaxed (Biosilk hair products).

CN: What was your staple hair style during the transition?
The low bun I wore, I loved!! That was my fave, and the EASIEST to maintain.

CN: How did you moisturize your hair to prevent breakage at the new growth line?
Honestly... I am not sure if I did anything extra as far as moisturizing. Surprisingly, I didn't have much breakage, though. I styled my hair the same as when I had a perm, just used less heat.

CN: Why did you choose to go natural?
I was tired of getting relaxers, looking like everyone else and feeling like my God-given hair was "unpretty". I wanted to accept myself for who I was, naturally. I haven't regretted going natural since the day I did it.

Keeta, you might as well get back on in here and tell us how you do your twist-outs and what you use! Inquiring minds want to know!!!

Fotki!

Hola Chicas!

Garnier Sleek and Shine is working over time! My hair, on day 3 is doing exactly what I had hoped for -- growing in size without becoming excessively frizzy.

The only thing I did to it the past two nights was apply Shea to the crown. I used bobby pins (the same ones you see in the pic below) to hold the hair away from my face while sleeping.

Sorry for the constant enabling lately...but you must try this product. What do you have to lose?!

Later Gators,
Nik

It's that time again...the one and only Wes of Honeybrownsugar has taken the reigns of CurlyNikki.com. To check out my Drugstore treasures, head over to her site next!

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If I Could Only Shop at the Drugstore, I would HAVE to get….

1. Infusium 23 Leave-in Treatment: One of the best leave-ins of all time, my mom used to use this on my hair as a youngster. Nowadays, one part Infusium and about 3 parts water mixed in a spray bottle will leave your hair shiny, bouncy and FULL of body.

2. Aussie Moist Conditioner: LOVE LOVE LOVE this stuff as a leave-in styling cream… Can’t get enough!

3. Herbal Essences Hello Hydration: I don’t like using this as a leave-in, but it is one of my favorites to use as a rinse-out (actually, any of the Herbal Essence conditioners are great rinse aways)

4. Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo: I use this about once a month to clarify. It’s a no-frills, simple shampoo.

5. Elasta QP DPR-11 Conditioner: Extremely moisturizing, this is my “go to” conditioner for deep treatments (especially after clarifying).

What are some of your favorite drugstore brands?

If you recall, College Hill South Beach is one of my guilty pleasures. I missed several seasons, but tuned in for the drama (specifically the 'mushing' of Brandon...and the antics of Kyle), and for the amazingly awesome curly hair. Although the fights have been entertaining, my eyes were mostly glued to the huge and fluffy mass of hair atop the gorgeous Allison Wellons.


Ever wonder what Allison is doing to get her hair so big and friggin' awesome? Well, check back here in the next few days to find out...she's dropping by to give the CN.com community an exclusive interview!

Later Gators,
Nik

Current Product Rotation:

• Shampoo- Mehandi Shampoo Bar, or Giovanni Tea Tree
  

• Deep Conditioner- Jessicurl Weekly Deep Treatment or Aubrey Organics Honey Suckle Rose
  

• Conditioners- Depending on how I feel, I use one, or a combo of the following to co-wash, detangle, and leave-in: Garnier Fructis Sleek and Shine, Herbal Essence's Totally Twisted or Hello Hydration, and DevaCare One Condition.
  

• Sealant- Afrikan Republic Unrefined Shea Butter from Butters-n-Bars.
  

• Henna - Bridal Art Quality Jamila from Mehndiskinart.com--choose Jamila 2008 or '09, and use code 'CN' at the time of purchase. I buy the Jamila in the foil pouch only, not the cellophane. I also purchase henna from Butters-n-Bars.com.

• Extras- I sometimes use Oyin's Shine and Define, or Deva's Set it Free for extra hold, and shine. Deva SIF holds up well in humidity.
  

Hair Styles (listed in order of how often it is worn):

• Twist-n-Curl

• Chunky Twist-n-Curl (looser waves, and easier to do!)
  

• Messy Side Bun

• High Bun- The same basic steps found in THIS VIDEO, but done on dry, previously twisted hair.

• Curly Fro
  

• I haven't done a Bantu Knot-Out in a while due to the amount of time it takes to dry. I love the look, but hate sitting under the dryer!

To see pictures of my hair in the various styles, browse through My Hair.


Current Routine:

On Sunday afternoon I do the following:

• Thoroughly saturate hair with water in the shower, and divide into two (left and right).

• Apply conditioner of the day to both sides in a smooshing motion (usually Herbal Essence).

• Pass my head back under the shower stream for a second for better distribution and added slip.

• Clip the hair up and out of the way while I complete shower rituals.
  

• Take down the right side and finger detangle a bit -- detangling the rest under the water stream after the big knots are out. Follow up with the left side. If the conditioner is washed away and tangles are left, I add more conditioner, and repeat. The power of the water stream and the slip of the conditioner should make detangling a breeze!
  

• Once all the tangles are melted away, and the Herbal Essence is rinsed clean, I apply a generous amount of DevaCare to my hair in 4 sections to ensure coverage. I then pass my head back under the shower stream for even distribution and get out of the shower. I use lots of DevaCare One Condition as my leave-in...enough that I see white bits while styling. But don't worry, it dries clean and shiny!
  

• Make 10-12 twists- 5 or 6 on each side. Secure the roots with clips.
  

• Seal the ends with shea or Set it Free.
  

• Set the ends on rollers (rods, magnetic or flexis).

• Sleep under celing fan for faster drying time. If I'm in a hurry, I'll sit under my bonnet dryer for 20-30 minutes.
  

• The next morning, I take the twists down, and choose whether to leave it out, or pull it up into a high bun, or gather it into a low side bun. If I decide on a high bun, I use my hands only to secure the bun (combs and brushes will create frizz). To help the edges lay, I tie on a silk scarf for 30 minutes before leaving the house.

• My hair style lasts until the following Sunday. If I have weekend plans, I'll often re-style on Thursday or Friday -- so at the most, I style twice a week.

Once a month, on Thursday nights, I do the following:

• Shampoo, Condition, Detangle- I shampoo with a Mehandi bar, apply conditioner, detangle, and rinse thoroughly.

• Apply Henna for an overnight treatment (4 hour treatment with heat, if I'm in a rush).

• Deep Condition the next morning, and follow the steps above for styling.
  

Preserving the Style:

• To preserve my fluffy out-styles, I do THIS, or I sleep with my hair out on a satin pillow case, or up in a high, loose pony secured with a satin scrunchie. All three routines yeild excellent results.
  

• To preserve my high buns, I don a silk scarf every evening. By day three or four of my bun, I apply Shea Butter to any unruly edges prior to applying the scarf for the evening. Shea is a great pomade.
  

• To preserve the frizz-less low bun style, I take it out of the bun at night and secure it in a loose, higher bun on top of my head (with a satin scrunchie). I then don a satin scarf (to help the edges lay) and retire. The next morning, I take it down and pull it back down into a low bun
  

I am so unfaithful! My PJism has yet again got the best of me with my new found love Garnier Fructis Sleek and Shine Conditioner. As I mentioned earlier, I saw the commercial, and lost my mind :D
I used to use Garnier -- the Soft Curl Cream was a favorite early on in my natural journey. Since then, I never really paid much attention to Garnier...that commercial must have caught me during a vulnerable moment.

The ingredient list is not the best, but it does contain two that my curls can't seem to get enough of -- Behentrimonium Chloride (Behentrimonium Methosulfate's cousin), and Amodimethicone.

How I used it:

• Got in the shower and wet my hair down as usual. I then sectioned it into two (left and right).
  
• Applied S&S to both sides in a smooshing motion.
• Passed my head back under the shower stream for a second for better distribution and added slip.
• Clipped the hair up and out of the way.
  
• Completed my shower rituals.
  
• Took down the right side and finger detangled a bit -- detangling the rest under the water stream. Followed up with the left side.
  
• Detangling under the stream washed away most of the conditioner, so I added another glob of S&S to each side. I then passed my head back under the shower stream for distribtuion and got out of the shower.
  
• Made 10 twists- 5 on each side.
  
• Sealed the ends with Oyin Shine and Define.
  
• Set on rollers.
• Slept under celing fan for faster drying time.
  
• Un-twisted in the morn, and fluffed throughout the day.
  

The results-- soft, defined, and shiny hair! The hold is about the same as DevaCare One...much stronger than Oyin's Honey Hemp, but not as strong as a gel. The frizzies were smoothed out, and hubby stated that "it looks shiny without looking or feeling greasy". He hates it when my hair is product-y, and the S&S passed the test. I love the results, especially for 5 dollars. Big thanks to Teri for opening my eyes to leaving in rinse-out conditioners! This has changed my life, lol. S&S will definitely be a mainstay in my product rotation.

Pros:

• Excellent definition
• Light-medium hold
• Light, fresh fragrance
• Easy to distribute- very creamy
• Great slip for detangling (but not as good as Herbal Essence's Totally Twisted)
• Cheap and readily available!
  

Cons:

• Light on moisture- may need to add another product to ends
  
• That's all I got!!!
  

Product Description:

• For frizzy, dry unmanageable hair.
• Smoothes hair for long-lasting frizz control.
• Nutritive Fruit Micro-Oils:
  • Vitamins B3 + B6
  • Apricot + Avocado Oil
  • Acts deep within and on the surface of your hair to strengthen & smooth each strand.
• Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine System gives long-lasting frizz control, even with moisture in the air.
  1. Penetrates to improve texture, moisturize, and soften hair.
  2. Smoothes hair from root to tip.
  3. Helps tame frizz so hair stays sleek all day.
• Results: The Garnier Sleek & Shine System makes hair 5x stronger, 5x smoother and so much shinier. Garnier Sleek & Shine System of Shampoo, Conditioner and Anti-Frizz Serum.
• For hair that shines with all its strength

Ingredients: Water - Aqua , Cetearyl Alcohol , Behentrimonium Chloride , Amodimethicone , Apple Fruit Extract - Pyrus Malus , Fragrance - Parfum , Cetyl Esters , Lauryl PEG/PPG-18/18 Methicone , Methylparaben , Avocado Oil - Persea Gratissima , Niacinamide , Pyridoxine HCl , Trideceth-12 , Citric Acid , Apricot Kernel Oil - Prunus Armeniaca , Sugar Cane Extract - Saccharum Officinarum , Chlorhexidine Dihydrochloride , Cetrimonium Chloride , Linalool , Butylphenyl Methylpropional , Lemon Peel Extract - Citrus Limonum , Camellia Sinensis , Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract



Run out and get your bottle, and let me know what you think!

Later Gators,
Nik

Hola Chicas!

I'll dish later today when I have more time, but for now, just know that Sleek and Shine Conditioner is the bizness!!! It has it all -- slip, moisture, and yes, HOLD. My hair feels like it used to with DevaCare One Condition. I'll definitely be re-purchasing, especially for 5 dollars :D

For the TnC below, I only did 10 twists -- 5 on each side (lazy). I left in a lot of S&S and put a bit of Oyin Shine and Define on the ends prior to rolling. I set overnight, and took them down this morn without fluffing.


Although it looks and feels amazing, I might bun it anyway...