Quest for Curls - The Max Hydration Method (Modified)

Prior to returning natural in February of 2017 I spent months scouring the internet looking for a way to get my natural curls popping without having to spend hours on wash days twisting my hair (only to re twist it every night). I knew that my wool was capable of curling on it's own but I was at a loss as to which products and techniques to employ that would encourage my curls.

My research lead me to what is known as the Maximum Hydration Method. Having been natural from 2010-2013 I was somewhat familiar with the use of Bentonite Clay to encourage curls, and had even tried it in the past but failed to see any results. Several bloggers and vloggers with type 4 curls shared their experiences with and their results of the Maximum Hydration Method, and I was confident that I too could get popping natural curls if I implemented that same method. As I mentioned in my return post, I spent a short three months transitioning and used Bentonite Clay as my cleanser during that time. Once I removed my braids and cut off the small amount of remaining relaxed ends I jumped headlong into the full Max Hydration Method (MHM).

What is the Max Hydration Method (MHM)?

For those of you who may not be familiar with the MHM I will provide a brief summary.

 MHM is a method of hair care cleansing, conditioning and styling that is touted to improve moisture levels in the hair strand thereby encouraging clumping and curling of type 4 hair. The method essentially evolves four steps that are to be done for seven consecutive days, then once every 3-7 days until maximum hydration levels are reached. According to the creator of the method, maximum hydration is reached once a single strand of hair curls from root to tip without the help of styling products. Steps of the MHM include:

1. Cherry Lola Treatment - A mixture of full fat, plain, organic Greek yogurt; Braggs Amino Acids; and 1 Tbs baking soda. Mixture is applied to damp hair and allowed to sit for 30 minutes beneath a shower cap or plastic bag. 
2.  Clarify - Once the Cherry Lola Treament is rinsed out clarify your strands using either an ACV rinse or Baking Soda rinse.
3. Deep Condition - After cleansing deep condition with a quality conditioner that does not contain silicone. 
4. Clay Treatment - Mix bentonite clay with apple cider vinegar (ACV) and apply to damp hair. Cover with plastic cap and allow to sit for 15-30 minutes. 
5. Leave In Conditioner and Botanical Gel to seal and set - after thoroughly rising the clay apply a quality leave in conditioner and botanical gel (recommend Kinky Curly Knot Today & Curling Custard). Allow hair to air dry or diffuse.

Note the Cherry Lola step is only done on the FIRST DAY you begin the MHM. On days 2-7 begin with Step 2 (Clarify).

My Results with MHM

I noticed immediately that my hair did not like the Cherry Lola Treatment and I truly believe it was due to the use of baking soda. This step left my hair dry, brittle, and frizzy. After further research I discovered that when used over a long period of time baking soda can cause harm to the hair strands. Knowing the potential for harm along with the results I experienced lead me to cut this step completely from the Maximum Hydration Method. 

For steps 2 - 7 I made the following adjustments:

• Step 2: Opted to use a ratio of 3 parts water and one part ACV to clarify
• Step 3: Used Kera Minerals Deep Conditioner although it was not silicone free. I found this conditioner gave me excellent results. 
• Step 4: Followed clay making steps per MHM creator's instructions
• Step 5: Used Kinky Curly products to seal

The results after seven consecutive days of performing all five steps was a head full of soft and moisturized curls, kinks, and coils. Once the seven days were complete I moved on to performing the MHM every 3 days for a period of eight months. In all honesty I did experiment with Wetline Xtreme gel (this is NOT recommended as it is not a botanical gel) because the curling custard was not helping my hair to hold it's curls.

After eight months I finally visited my stylist for a trim and she talked me into getting a protein treatment known as the BASIC One Step Treatment that is supposed to improve manageability of tightly coiled hair (I will provide a run down of this treatment in a later post). Obviously to properly trim my hair my stylist had to blow dry and flat iron my strands and it was at this time that I saw the true effects of the MHM on my hair. It took her six hours to blow out and flat iron my hair and at the time I had a small TWA. The process was painful and as she worked the tools through my hair I could see my strands falling around me. She ended up having to remove almost 4 inches of my hair and I will never forget her surprise as she asked "What have you been doing to your hair?!" My hair was a dry, gnarled, crispy mess! My ends were eaten up with split ends and single strand knots; I have never seen my hair look that bad.

After that visit I immediately quit the MHM and have been using quality shampoos and conditioners since. Three months later I visited my stylist again for another trim and it took her 2 hours to blow dry and flat iron my strands, she only trimmed about an inch, and my strands were moisturized and shiny.

Would I recommend the MHM?

In spite of the long term effects I would still recommend the MHM to those struggling to get their curls to pop. However, I would recommend doing the method for no longer than the initial seven days. Based upon my own experiences long term use of bentonite clay and ACV may have a damaging effect on your strands.

I also still use clay but I do not do so as often. Last weekend was the first time I did a clay mask in at least six months. This time I shampooed my hair first, applied the clay mask, and only allowed it to stay on my hair for five minutes. I do intend to do this once a week for the next few weeks as I am trying to improve curl definition on the sides of my head.

Have you tried the Maximum Hydration Method? What were your results?

Product Review: Organix Macadamia Oil Shampoo & Conditioner

Price: $5.99/ea

Purchased at: Target

Product Claims:  "Nutrient-rich macadamia oil + exotic sugar cane extract + bamboo extract = one ultra- moisturizing formula. When your hair is parched, this yummy blend will bring back the shine."

Ingredients: (Shampoo) Water, Sodium C14 16 Olefin Sulfonate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, PPG 2 Hydroxyethyl Coco/Isostearamide, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Glycol Distearate, Macadamia Ternifolia (Macadamia) Seed Oil, Saccharum Officinarum (Sugar Cane) Extract, Bambusa Vulgaris (Bamboo) Extract, Hydrolyzed Keratin, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Panthenol, Dimethicone, Laureth 4, Laureth 23, PEG 12 Dimethicone, PEG 23M, Polyquaternium 10, PEG 150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrastearate, PEG 6 Caprylic/Capric Glycerides, Sodium Chloride, Tetrasodium EDTA, Diazolidinyl Urea, Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate, Citric Acid, Fragrance, Yellow 5 (CI 19140), Red 40 (CI 16035), Blue 1 (CI 42090)

(Conditioner) Water (Aqua), Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetyl Alcohol, Behentrimonium Chloride, Glycerine, Glycol Distearate, Glycol Stearate, DMDM Hydantoin, Ceteareth 20, Isopropyl Alcohol, Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Extract, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Macadamia Ternifolia (Nut) Seed Oil, Hydrolyzed Keratin, Dimethicone, Bambusa Vulgaris (Bamboo) Extract, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Fragrance, Tetrasodium EDTA, Cyclotetrasiloxane, Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Methylisothiazolinone, Citric Acid, Cyclopentasiloxane, Panthenol, FD&C Yellow 5, FD&C Red 40, FD&C Blue 1

Analysis: The first thing I noticed about this shampoo & conditioner combo was the consistency. The shampoo is quite thick while the conditioner seems a bit on the thinner side - it is far from runny but I was surprised to find the shampoo appeared to be thicker. Both products smell somewhat tropical and almost nutty & the scent tends not to linger. I have used this combo for nearly 3 months now and what I like best is the fact that neither product "clings" to my hair and scalp; both rinse clean and don't leave me with patches of product build up that needs to be repeatedly rinsed or shampooed (with another product) away.

Verdict: Although I was initially shocked by the consistency of the conditioner the thinness allows it to be evenly and easily spread throughout the hair and I find that I get great coverage using a about a quarter sized amount of product. I like that the conditioner contains a bit of protein (Hydrolyzed Keratin) which makes it the perfect choice for those lazy wash days when I don't have a lot of time or energy to do a full DC session with both a protein and moisture based conditioner. The conditioner adds a good deal of slip to the hair enabling the comb to glide through nicely and also eliminates tangles and knots.

Would I recommend this product to a friend?

I would definitely recommend the Organix line, but honestly of the Organix products I have tried thus far this particular line is not a favorite. Compared to some of the other lines the Macadamia Oil does not leave my hair nearly as soft, and I LOVE soft hair. 

Would I repurchase?

Honestly no. Again the Macadamia Oil did not leave my hair nearly as soft as some of the other product lines within the Organix brand & Organix has so many lines I would like to try I cannot see myself repurchasing a product I feel gave average results. 

 Have you tried Organix Macadamia Oil Conditioner & Shampoo?

Product Review: Garnier Fructis Damage Eraser Strength Reconstructing Butter

Price: $4.99
Purchased at: Target
Product Claims: "This rich, indulgent butter is designed to intensely reconstruct hair's strength for strong, rejuvenated hair. "
Ingredients: Water , Cetearyl Alcohol , Behentrimonium Chloride , Amodimethicone , Candelilla Cera (Candelilla Wax) , Cetyl Esters , Glycerin , Fragrance , Isopropyl Alcohol , Phenoxyethanol , Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Extract , Trideceth 6 , Hydroxypropyl Guar , Niacinamide , Pyridoxine HCl , Cetrimonium Chloride , Chlorhexidine Dihydrochloride , Linalool , Citric Acid , Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil , Theobroma Grandiflorum Seed Butter , Saccharum Officinarum (Sugar Cane) Extract , Limonene , Benzyl Alcohol , Benzyl Salicylate , Hydrolyzed Corn Protein , Hydrolyzed Soy Protein , Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein , Yellow 5CI 19140 , Yellow 6CI 15985 , Citrus Medica Limonum (Lemon) Peel Extract , Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract

Analysis: The first two things I noticed about this reconstructor were the scent and the consistency. Like all Garnier products Damage Eraser has somewhat of a fruity-scent, but it is also slightly chemical which makes for a weird smelling product. Fortunately the scent does not linger. This reconstructor has a great consistency: extremely thick! It has a consistency you would expect to see of a quality deep conditioner, and a little product goes a long way, making for a product that will last for quite some time. I wash and conditioner my hair twice a week using this butter and I have hardly put a dent in this product.  Despite its thick consistency this product spreads evenly and easily throughout the hair and provides great slip; both my shower comb and my fingers glide easily through my strands once this conditioner is applied. My tangles instantly melt with this conditioner and if I wanted to I could  get away with not running the product through with a comb or my fingers.

 

Another thing that drew me to purchase this product was the packaging, I love conditioners that come in a jar rather than a bottle because they are usually thicker and I feel I get more usage out of one purchase (more bang for my buck). It may be difficult for some to unscrew in the shower, but I usually open the jar prior to starting my routine, that way it is open and ready for use and I won't have to struggle with the lid in the shower.

 

The Verdict: I have used this product for exactly one month now and with continued use and the right shampoo and deep conditioner my hair has flourished. I have seen very few broken strands on the floor (well I haven't seen any actually) and I have also found that my hair sheds a lot less since I began using this butter. For the purpose of this review I used the product as instructed: applying to wet hair and allowing the product to sit for 3 - 5 minutes (I added a processing cap out of habit); after rinsing and following up with a moisturizing deep conditioner for 15 minutes my hair is always soft, strong, and moisturized. Even without using direct heat there was a point when my hair was still riddled with splits, since using this reconstuctor I have noticed a reduction in the rate at which my ends are splitting. I have done fewer search & destroy sessions and my ends seem to retain their strength a lot longer.

 

Would I recommend this product to a friend?

Definitely. You rarely find products that do what they promise on the bottle, this is one of those products. It is comparable to the Aphogee 2 Minute Reconstructor and at $4.99 for 8.5 ounces it is definitely worth trying.

 

Would I repurchase?

Yes, but it won't be soon. I say that because the jar is still pretty full and I love trying new conditioners. This product would be a repurchase if I simply could not find another reconstructor that left my hair as strong and conditioned as this one.

 

Have you tried Garnier Fructis Damage Eraser?

 

Product Review: African Royal Hot Six Oil

Price: $3.49
Purchased at: Local Beauty Supply Store
Product Claims: "Hot Six Oil is made from only all natural plant herbs and oils with absolutely no animal fat or animal oils. Hot Six Oil's special light formula goes in hair, skin, scalp and nail cuticles easily without heavy buildup. Hot Six Oil leaves your hair light and well conditioned."
Ingredients: Olive Oil, Canola Oil, Wheat Germ Oil, Sweet Almond Oil, Safflower Oil, Castor Oil, Sesame Oil, Vitamin E, Vitamin A, Vitamin D, Cyclomethicone, Sheep Sorrell, Yarrow, Slippery Elm Bark, Sage, Henna, Comfrey, Burdock Root, Ginseng, Goldenseal, Cherry Bark, Black Walnut, Chamomile, Alfalfa, Hyssop, Wheat Germ, Fragrance.

Analysis: Hot Six Oil has a light, somewhat flower-y scent that does not linger. The oil dispenses easily due to the specially designed cap which allows you to pour the oil without worry of excess spillage. It has a very smooth and even texture and disperses throughout the hair evenly and easily. It also does not leave your hands or clothes oily after use because it does not leave behind residue and does not run.

The Verdict: I purchased this oil during a severe dry-spell I experienced after a change in climate, my initial plan for this oil was to use it as a hot oil treatment but due to its overall effectiveness I have used it as a sealant and pre-poo treatment as well. I love that this oil is 98% natural (my guess) and it contains oils that have a high ceramide content which aids in sealing the hair cuticle. Since using this oil I have noticed a change in the overall look and feel of my strands; it is shinier, softer, tangles less and I have seen a vast reduction in split ends. I did not use this oil in two of my recent wash sessions ( I pre-poo'ed with protein) and I noticed that although my hair was extremely soft it lacked the shine I usually experience when I use Hot Six and also seemed to dry out faster in-between shampoo sessions. I highly recommend this product for anyone who is experiencing severe dryness, has a problem with splitting and breaking ends, or who simply wants to pamper their tresses. Hot Six Oil is a great product and a staple in my hair regimen.

Have you tried Hot Six Oil?

Product Review: ORS Incredibly Rich Oil Moisturizing Hair Lotion

Price: $3.49
Purchased at: Local Beauty Supply Store
Product Claims: "ORS has blended olive oil into a rich moisturizing lotion that conditions and protects the hair from high heat. ORS Moisturizing Hair Lotion aids in imparting moisture while straightening the hair and providing a lasting sheen."
Ingredients: Water - Aqua, Coconut Oil - Cocos Nucifera, Sorbitol, Trimonium Methosulfate, Cetearyl Alcohol , Petrolatum, Cyclomethicone, Peanut Oil - Arachi Hypogaea , Castor Oil - Ricinus Communis, Cetyl Esters, Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil, Olive Oil - Olea Europaea, Stearic Acid, Triethanolamine, DMDM Hydantoin, Propylene Glycol, Methyl Paraben, Propyl Paraben, Carbomer, , Cetearyl Alcohol , Sodium Cetearyl Sulfate, PEG-25 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Fragrance - Parfum, Benzyl Alcohol , Benzyl Salicylate, Geraniol, Hexylcinnamicaldehyde, Lillial, D'Limonene, Linalool, Lyral, Alpha Isomethyl Ionone, BHT , Blue No. 1 - CI 42090, Yellow No. 5 - CI 19140

Analysis: As you know I am a sucker for hair products that smell good, so once I smelled this hair lotion I had to have it. It has somewhat of a chemical-scent that reminds me of the hair salon, and I absolutely LOVE the way my hair smells after visiting the salon. The scent is pretty strong and it lingers so if you are sensitive to certain smells you may want to stay away from this product.

The second thing I noticed about this moisturizer was the thickness of the product, when I say this stuff is thick I mean it is THICK! Okay I may be exaggerating a little but I will say it is by far the thickest hair lotion I have ever used and that worried me because I thought it would coat my hair rather than actually soak in. Fortunately I was wrong and my hair readily and easily absorbs this product; in fact, once you emulsify the product by rubbing your hands together it melts and distributes easily throughout the hair.

I have used this lotion in two ways: (1) as a daily moisturizer and (2) as a leave-in conditioner after washing. As a daily moisturizer I felt this product fell short of my expectations, when applied to dry hair I didn't really see any difference in the moisture levels in my hair - it basically still felt dry. However, when used as a leave-in conditioner on damp hair the results are drastically different. My hair is soft, easy to comb-thru, has a nice sheen, and feels moisturized. I also noticed that I can forgo moisturizing and sealing daily since my hair retains moisture until the next wash (3 days later).

The Verdict: As a leave-in conditioner this product is great, and honestly the smell alone is enough to make me repurchase. Not only does it provide moisture and slip for detangling it also provides protection against heat styling tools. Would I recommend this product to a friend? Yes but ONLY as a leave in conditioner; for daily M&S I am still sold on my Garnier Fructis Sheer Shine Mist.

Have you tried ORS Moisturizing Hair Lotion?

Product Review: Biosilk Hydrating Therapy Shampoo & Conditioner

Price: $7.99 (originally $14.50)
Purchased at: Marshall's
Product Claims: 
Shampoo - "Pamper your hair with Biosilk Hydrating Therapy Shampoo. This rich, sulfate-free cleanser rids hair of impurities while hydrating and moisturizing.

• Moisturizing agents found in hydrolyzed protein of quinoa penetrate the cortex bringing moisture and deep repair into the hair.
• Strengthening elements of silk revitalize and rejuvenate hair."

Conditioner - "Calm, control and moisturize your locks with this conditioner that combines maracuja oil and quinoa for smooth, shiny, and moisture-rich results. Maracuja oil comes from the pressed kernels of passion fruit seeds and is rich in vitamins A and C to treat, calm, and control naturally dry, unruly and damaged hair."

Analysis: Both of these products smell pretty good, they have a light perfume-scent and I am a sucker for shampoos and conditioners that smell like perfume and leave the scent lingering in my hair.

• Shampoo: The shampoo is a pearly color with the consistency of most shampoos. The thing that drew me to purchase was the fact that it was sulfate-free and I wanted a different product to use on those wash days when I wasn't heat styling (as opposed to my Kera Minerals Sulfate Free Shampoo). As with most sulfate-free shampoos the first attempt usually does not give a good lather, and for me lather = clean (there is no factual evidence to support this). I should have stopped at the first lather because the second seemed to dry my hair out and left it a bit tangled. As I rinsed the shampoo all I could think was the conditioner better re-moisturize and detangle my hair. On the bright side the shampoo rinsed clean and I did not have to worry about it clinging to my hair and scalp leaving residue behind.

• Conditioner: The conditioner has a semi-thick consistency, I would say it matches that of hand lotion and applied easily to my damp hair. I could feel the difference in my hair upon application and where the shampoo left my hair feeling a bit rough the shampoo immediately smoothed, softened, and tamed my tresses. I only needed to leave it on for a minute or two and I could literally see the difference in the texture of my hair; I was able to easily comb through my hair with my fingers and did not encounter a single tangle! My hair felt pretty moisturized after rinsing and I think under normal circumstances (i.e. no extreme dryness) I could get away with just this conditioner, no additional treatments needed, and still have soft, moisturized hair.

The Verdict: Honestly I purchased these two products because Marshall's didn't have the Joico shampoo & conditioner combo I was looking for. Under normal circumstances and especially at $14.50 each these products are something I would not willingly try, and I do not plan on repurchasing either. Would I recommend them to a friend? Probably not. The shampoo was average at best, and although I liked the conditioner I do not feel like it is worth $14.50 (or $7.99) given that the results were similar to what I get when using my Kera Minerals (at 1/2 the price). In short, I won't be purchasing any more Biosilk products in the near future.

Have you tried the Biosilk Hydrating Therapy line?

Substitutes for Salon Brand Products: Sally's Generic Value Products (GVP)

My hair journey as a natural was a lot cheaper than my relaxed journey. As a natural I used mostly home-made all natural products like Aloe Vera Juice, Bentonite Clay and Shea Butter; and the few store bought products that I did purchase were under five dollars. When I transitioned back to relaxed hair and started following a few relaxed bloggers I noticed they used pretty expensive products: Chi, Paul Mitchell, Joico and Matrix Biolage, just to name a few.

After following these ladies for a while and seeing their hair growth I was interested in trying some of these products myself, but once I saw the price tag on these products I began looking for suitable substitutes that would provide the same results without the high price. I was particularly interested in trying the Joico K-Pak Reconstructor in place of the Aphogee 2 Minute Reconstructor I was using at the time.

Enter Sally's Beauty Supply

GVP Matrix & Joico K-Pak

As it turns out, Sally's Beauty Supply offers a number of generic brand products that contain the same ingredients as their salon brand counter-parts, only at a lighter price tag. I was able to try not only the Joico K-Pak Reconstructor but I picked up a substitute for Matrix Biolage Conditioning Balm as well. 

Although I cannot compare these products to their salon brand substitutes, I can say that both of these conditioners have fast become favorites and staples in my regimen.

$6.59 at Sally's

GVP Conditioning Balm VS Matrix Biolage Conditioning Balm* 

The GVP Conditioning Balm claims: 

• Deeply Moisturizes over-dry damaged hair
• Provides shine, silkiness & softness

I have used this conditioner as a deep conditioner following a protein treatment and as a quick 3 minute conditioner while in the shower. In both instances this conditioner provided superb softness, silkiness and moisture while melting my tangles and making my hair a breeze to comb through. 

$27.00 at Drugstore.com

Matrix Biolage claims:

"An intensive conditioning treatment that replenishes hair with the basic elements that hair needs to moisturize and restructure...hair recovers its natural shine, silkiness and softness." 

Both of these products promise the same results: shiny, silky, soft and moisturized hair.

*I have not tried the Matrix brand so this review is not a comparison of the effectiveness of the products, only on the actual claims.

$5.79 at Sally's

GVP Reconstructuring Conditioner VS Joico K-Pak Reconstructor*

GVP Reconstructing Conditioner Claims:

• Unsurpassed in bringing damaged hair back to optimum condition
• Adds fantastic body, shine, manageability
•  Repairs dry and damaged hair
• Maintains condition of healthy hair.

I have used this conditioner in three ways: (1) as a mid relaxer step protein treatment; (2) as a monthly protein treatment after clarifying; and (3) as a weekly protein conditioner to maintain my hair's balance. However I used this conditioner my hair was left soft, smooth, moisturized, strong and free of tangles. It also eliminates breakage and shedding when used after relaxing, and strengthens my hair before using heat styling tools. 

$19.00 at Drugstore.com

Joico K-Pak Deep Penetration Reconstructor Claims:

"Joico's original, award-winning intensive protein reconstructor rebuilds and improves the structure of hair.  Reconstructor features Quadramine Complex,® an exclusive blend of low molecular weight and size proteins.  This balance of 19 essential amino acids (the building blocks of hair) adheres quickly and effectively to ensure maximum protection and reconstruction from the cuticle to the cortex." 

I admit the Joico brand sounds a bit better than the GVP brand, and I am curious to see if this conditioner leaves my hair in a condition better than what the GVP brand promises.



If you are looking for salon quality products without the salon price tag Sally's Generic Brand Products are a great place to start. At nearly 1/5 of the price of their salon counter-parts these two conditioners are at least worth a try before spending additional money on a product that may leave your hair in similar if not better condition.

What are you favorite GVP Products?

Mid Week Update - Kera Minerals Smoothing System

Last Saturday I tried all three products from the Kera Minerals Smoothing System line. These products are specifically formulated to prolong the Kera Minerals Smoothing System Treatment which is basically a smoothing treatment for at-home use that does not contain formaldehyde and uses Keratin and Silk Amino Acids to coat the hair. I have yet to try the actual smoothing system, but plan to do so in place of my relaxer touch up on the 31st.

Just to briefly summarize what I did, I washed my hair with the sulfate free shampoo, conditioned with the deep conditioner, applied the leave in and blow dried and flat ironed my hair on 450 degrees.*

*For full details see my Wash Day July 12, 2014 Post.

It has been four days since I washed, I opted to forgo my mid-week wash due to my GHE/Inversion method experiment, and there are a few things I have noticed with my hair this week:

1. My hair is still BONE straight - not only are my relaxed ends super silky, but my new growth is still very straight. It has frizzed a little due to the weather and as a result of moisture from the GHE, but there is a huge difference in how straight it is after using the Kera Minerals products vs. when I use other products.
2. My hair is STILL moisturized - granted this may be an affect of the GHE, four days after my wash day my hair has maintained pretty good moisture levels. I have not applied any additional moisturizing products to my hair - my version of the GHE is simply oiling the scalp and covering with a plastic cap, so my hair shaft has been untouched.
3. No Breakage or Shedding - when I air dry and roller set my hair I usually get tons of breakage and shedding, which I attribute to the lack of structure and closing of the cuticle heat styling offers. Since I used heat on this last wash day I have had literally 4 shed hairs and 4 broken strands on my sink so that is an average of 1 strand per day of a broken and shed hair.

1 Shed Hair + 1 Broken Hair = Success

Seeing the results of these products has me very excited to try the actual smoothing system. My hope is that this will allow me to stretch my relaxers from every 16 weeks to every 6 months with smoothing treatments at 3 month intervals.

How is your hair holding up since your wash day?

Product Review: Kera Minerals Smoothing System

Kera Minerals Smoothing System

I have been using the Kera Minerals Sulfate-Free Shampoo and Smoothing Deep Conditioner for about 2 weeks now and loved the two products so much that I decided to add the leave-in conditioner to the mix. The system is made to extend the life of the Kera Minerals Smoothing System by replenishing the hair with Keratin and other minerals that create smooth, frizz-free hair. I am debating on trying the actual smoothing system in the hopes that it will allow me to stretch my relaxer even further, but wanted to give these products a try first to test the waters.

The first product in the line is the Sulfate Free Shampoo. This shampoo has a nice perfume-y scent, much like that of the deep conditioner only lighter. Because it does not contain sulfates it requires a little more product to get a good lather going. What I like most about this shampoo is the fact that it is extremely moisturizing, so much so that I am able to detangle my hair with the shampoo in, and my hair does not feel stripped or dry after rinsing. One con of this product for me is the fact that it clings to my hair and scalp. My hair is extremely thick, so most shampoos seem to cling, so it is not at all a deterrent for me.


The second product is the Smoothing Deep Conditioner. I have already reviewed this product but I will say that it seems to improve the quality of your hair with each use. I have included some product consistency shots that were not included in my initial review.

Kera Minerals Smoothing Deep Conditioner

The consistency is pretty thick, it coats the hair nicely and does not drip off even when applied right after shampooing. 

Kera Minerals Smoothing Leave In Conditioner

The last product in the system is the leave-in conditioner which is claimed to remove frizz and promote shine. The first thing I noticed about this leave in is the smell..ugh! *gags slightly* This stuff smells horrible, like icy hot or cough drops. It reminds me of an old lady, seriously; fortunately the smell did not linger after my hair was styled. The second thing I noticed was the products consistency which is a little thick for a leave-in, it looked almost like Vaseline and appeared sticky, but I found that it melted nicely when I rubbed my hands together and disbursed evenly throughout my hair.

These products do exactly what they claim to do: reduce frizz and promote shine. I used these products on my wash day and did not include any additional heat protectants or serums in order to give an accurate review. My hair was left soft, shiny, moisturized, and silky straight - I looked as if I had just gotten a relaxer. There was no line of demarcation and I could run my fingers through the roots of my hair. If these products are any indication of how my hair will look with the actual Keratin Treatment I am definitely persuaded to give it a try.

Have you tried the Kera Minerals Smoothing System?

Product Review: Ion Pre-Shampoo Oil Treatment

Price: $1.99
Purchased at: Sally's Beauty Supply
Product Claims: "Ion Pre-Shampoo Oil Treatment has an ultra-moisturizing formula with argan, lavender and olive oils that moisturizes and repairs dry, damaged hair. Restores natural luster and strength and protects against future damage."

• Silicone Free blend of Argan, Lavender and Olive Oils
• Repairs dry, damaged hair and restores luster
• Strengthens hair and protects against future damage
• 100% Vegan
• Paraben Free

Ingredients: Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Isopropyl Palmitate,Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Fragrance (Parfum), Limonene, Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil.

Analysis: I purchased this on a whim a little over six months ago while in Sally's looking for some new products to try. The thing I love most about this product is the way the product is dispensed via an eye dropper. I don't know what it is but I absolutely LOVE that! It allows me to get as little or as much product as I desire, prevents waste, and I am not left with a sink slick with oil residue from drips.

The oil smells like a diluted lavender (it contains Lavender oil) that does not linger. The consistency of the product is pretty standard for your run of the mill oils - I would say it matches that of olive oil - not too thin but not too thick.

I typically leave the oil on my hair for about five minutes prior to washing - longer if I remember to start my wash day early, and the result is always soft and moisturized hair that does not feel stripped. I have left this in over night on a number of occasions and the next day prior to washing my hair is always super soft and I noticed it stops shedding in its tracks. I would really like to try this oil as a sealant after moisturizing seeing how it softens and smooths my hair when left in over night, but the instructions say to shampoo after use so I am unsure about using it as anything other than a pre-treatment.

The Verdict: At $1.99 this pre-shampoo treatment is much cheaper and honestly more convenient that using other natural oils. I love the way this oil leaves my hair feeling: soft and strong, and the fact that a tiny 2 oz bottle lasts for nearly seven months. I don't have many staple products in my collection, but this one definitely makes the cut.

Have you tried ION Pre-Shampoo Oil Treatment?

Product Review: Herbal Essence Naked Sheer Shine Mist

Price: $4.50
Purchased at: Target
Product Claims: "Treat your strands to this lightweight spray with champagne essences and refreshing mint. It helps nourish by conditioning to protect from root to tip, and leaves behind the silky shiny hair you love. With zero percent parabens and colorants, you'll discover a naturally refreshing and uninhibited experience. That’s Herbal's naked way to shine."

At A Glance

• Nourishes by conditioning for brilliant, lightweight shine
• Zero percent parabens and colorants
• Champagne and refreshing mint

Ingredients: Water/EAU, Vp/Methacrylamide/Vinyl Imidazole Copolymer, Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Oil, Mentha Arvensis Leaf Oil*, Menthol, Fragrance/Parfum, Polyquaternium-16, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Benzoate, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Disodium EDTA, Cetrimonium Chloride, Citric Acid. *Field Mint/Menthe Des Champs.

Analysis: I purchased this spray on a whim - feeding my inner PJ - to use as a light moisturizer in-between washes. The product is a light weight spritz that actually makes me feel like I am spraying nothing more than water on my strands, which I love. I also love the way the product dispenses a fine mist making it easy to saturate every strand without leaving my hair feeling wet.

The product has a mint-y smell which is okay and does not linger and I found this mist to be perfect for providing my hair with a boost of moisture throughout the week without weighing it down. A little goes a long way with this spray, I have had this same bottle for about 4 months now and it is still going strong (5 fl oz) so you definitely get a lot of bang for your buck.

The verdict: This is a product I would not only recommend but repurchase. I do not exactly "moisturize and seal" my hair daily and I bought this spray as a means of providing moisture without all of the excess product buildup. This mist was exactly what the doctor ordered.

Have you tried the Herbal Essence Naked Collection?

Product Review: Kera Minerals Smoothing Deep Conditioner

Price: $6.49
Purchased at: Sally's Beauty Supply
Product Claims: "Silk Elements Kera Minerals Smoothing Deep Conditioner is especially formulated with Seriseal Complex that combines Sercin Silk Protein with hair keratin to produce effect results in reducing frizz and volume while adding shine and conditioning properties to the hair.
Restores lost keratin that can cause hair breakage, dryness, dullness and frizz. Helps strengthen, smooth and replenish keratin to hair. Safe for natural or chemically treated or color-treated hair."

Ingredients: WATER (AQUA, EAU), CETYL ALCOHOL, BEHENTRIMONIUM CHLORIDE, GLYCOL STEARATE, AMODIMETHICONE, GLYCOL DISTEARATE, CETRIMONIUM CHLORIDE, TRIDECETH-12, POLYQUATERNIUM-7, SERICIN, GUAR HYDROXYPROPYLTRIMONIUM CHLORIDE, CETRIMONIUM CHLORIDE, BENENTRIMONIUM CHLORIDE, PROPYLENE GLYCOL, ROSA MOSCHATA SEED OIL, PEG-75 LANOLIN, BENZOPHENONE-4, SODIUM PCA, FRAGRANCE (PARFUM), TOCOPHERYL ACETATE, CITRIC ACID, PHENOXYETHANOL, CAPRYLYL GLYCOL, ETHYLHEXYLGLYCERIN, HEXYLENE GLYCOL, BENZYL BENZOATE.

Analysis:  The first thing I noticed about this conditioner was the smell; it has a somewhat perfume-y smell that is indescribable but AMAZING! While it smells amazing in the jar it does not linger after application or rinse-out which is one of the things I have to say I dislike about this conditioner. I love conditioners with strong scents that remain even after washing and styling.

The consistency is quite thick, almost like frosting, which I love - I am a sucker for a thick conditioner since it makes me feel like it is actually soaking into my hair and not running down the drain. I have used this conditioner twice in two different ways and each use left my hair feeling soft yet strong.

The first time I used this conditioner I t-shirt dried my hair after shampooing with the Kera Minerals Sulfate Free Shampoo and applied the conditioner in sections concentrating on the very ends of my hair. I  placed a shower cap on my head and sat beneath a hooded dryer for 15 minutes then rinsed with cool water. I found my hair to be soft but I did not think it was as soft as when using my usual conditioner combo (Joico K-pak Reconstructor and Matrix Biolage Conditioning Balm) and my tangles did not melt apart, but I could live with the results.

The second time I used this conditioner I applied Matrix BCB in the shower for five minutes first, rinsed, t-shirt dried then applied Kera Minerals in sections. I decided to try an over night DC so I donned a shower cap, two scarves and went to bed. I ended up getting up around 2 a.m. to rinse the conditioner because I just couldn't take sleeping with wet hair. I noticed a BIG difference in my hair this time around: not only did my tangles melt apart but my new growth seemed straighter. To save time (and hurry back to bed) I blow dried my hair on medium heat using a round brush and got possibly the BEST blow out results I have ever had on 13-week- post- relaxer- hair. It dried quickly and the results were extremely sleek. 

The Verdict: I will definitely continue using this conditioner but I will leave it on for at least 1 hour (or 30 minutes with heat) for best results. This will also be my go-to conditioner whenever I heat style due to the sleek results it gives.

Have you tried Kera Minerals Conditioner?