UPDATE: BEAUTY HAULS, PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT, PRODUCTS I REGRET AND MUCH MORE!!

HEY BEAUTIFUL! I'VE MISSED YOU! DID YOU MISS ME??? I WANTED TO GO AHEAD AND UPDATE YOU ON WHAT'S IN STORE VERY SOON ON THIS BLOG, AND WHAT YOU'LL BE SEEING ON HERE!

HAIR ROUTINE:

IT'S TAKING LONGER THAN I WOULD HAVE LIKED TO GET MY HAIR ROUTINE POSTED. BUT DON'T WORRY, I'M DEFINITELY POSTING IT TOMORROW!! I'M DOING MY SISTER'S HAIR THIS MORNING, BUT I'M GOING TO START MY HAIR THIS EVENING. I WILL ALSO POST A 'HOW I STYLE MY HAIR' BLOG POST AS WELL. IT'S A VERY DETAILED PROCESS SINCE I TAKE THE PICTURES MYSELF BETWEEN STYLING, UPLOAD THEM, THEN CREATE A NICE DETAILED POST ABOUT THE PRODUCTS, AND HOW I USE THEM. BARE WITH ME BABES! 

HAULS:

I'VE PURCHASED A COUPLE ITEMS OVER THE PAST COUPLE WEEKS, AND I WANTED TO SHARE WHAT I RECEIVED. I AM WAITING FOR ONE MORE ITEM, BUT I FIGURED ONCE THAT COMES IN THE MAIL, IT'LL BE A SPOTLIGHT ITEM. I'M THINKING OF DOING THESE EVERY SO OFTEN. I DON'T SHOP ALL THE TIME, BUT WHEN I DO I GET ME A GREAT DEAL!! I MAY OR MAY NOT SPLIT THIS INTO TWO HAULS (MAKEUP/HAIR AND CLOTHING/ACCESSORIES). 

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT:

I'M VERY EXCITED ABOUT THIS PARTICULAR TOPIC BECAUSE IT GIVES ME THE OPPORTUNITY TO TALK ABOUT HOW MUCH I LOVE AN ITEM!! BETWEEN MAKEUP, HAIR AND SKIN PRODUCTS I'M ALWAYS TRYING SOMETHING NEW, BUT THEN THERE'S ALWAYS THE PRODUCTS YOU GO BACK TO THAT WILL NEVER LEAVE YOUR "HOLY GRAIL" LIST. 

PRODUCTS I REGRET BUYING:

THE DOWNSIDE OF TRYING NEW PRODUCTS IS THAT YOU DON'T ALWAYS LIKE WHAT YOU GET. I'VE DEFINITELY GOTTEN SOME PRODUCTS THAT WERE JUST TERRIBLE. BUT REMEMBER THAT JUST BECAUSE IT DIDN'T WORK FOR ME DOESN'T MEAN IT WON'T WORK FOR YOU. **HONEST OPINIONS ALWAYS**

MAKEUP TUTORIALS:

I'M NO MUA, BUT I'M A MUE! I LOVE CREATING DIFFERENT LOOKS, AND I WANT TO CREATE SOME FOR THIS BLOG. I'M EXCITED JUST TYPING THIS OUT!! YAY!! MAKEUP!! 

SKINCARE:

I DON'T HAVE PERFECT SKIN, AND MY ACNE COMES AND GOES. HOWEVER, I DID WANT TO DO SOME SKINCARE POSTS ABOUT MY SKIN, PRODUCTS THAT I'VE USED FOR ACNE, PRODUCTS THAT DIDN'T HELP MY SKIN AND SOME DIY THINGS! I'M SUCH A DIY PERSON AND I LOVE TO TRY DIFFERENT CONCOCTIONS. 

SELF-LOVE:

LASTLY, AT THE END OF EVERY MONTH I WILL POST A SEGMENT TITLED 'SELF-LOVE' EPISODE (1,2,3...etc). I TALK ABOUT SELF-LOVE A LOT ON MY RADIO SHOW, AND I WANT THIS BLOG TO BE ABOUT LOVING ALL YOUR FLAWS. CELEBRATING YOURSELF EACH DAY IS IMPORTANT. EACH MONTH WILL BE A NEW TOPIC, AND I'M HOPING THIS WILL INSPIRE YOU TO JOIN IN ON THIS SELF-LOVE JOURNEY WITH ME!

ARE YOU EXCITED ABOUT WHAT'S IN STORE?! I KNOW I AM!!

PLEASE GIVE THIS BLOG A THUMBS UP AND A GOOGLE +1!!

SHARE, COMMENT AND FOLLOW!! 

LOVE YOU,

NISHA <3

Talk Time with Nisha: I GRADUATED, CONGRATS CLASS OF 2015!!! PICTURES BE...

Talk Time with Nisha: I GRADUATED, CONGRATS CLASS OF 2015!!! PICTURES BE...: THERE'S NO GREATER FEELING THAN SETTING GOALS AND ACCOMPLISHING THEM! AS I TOLD YOU ALL ON THE SHOW, THIS SEMESTER HAS BEEN A BITTERSWE...

I GRADUATED!!!

THERE'S NO GREATER FEELING THAN SETTING GOALS AND ACCOMPLISHING THEM! AS I TOLD YOU ALL ON THE SHOW, THIS SEMESTER HAS BEEN A BITTERSWEET ONE! I MET SOME AWESOME PEOPLE OVER THE LAST COUPLE MONTHS, INCLUDING MY PROFESSOR WHO WAS AMAZING! EARNING MY ASSOCIATES DEGREE IS JUST THE FIRST STEP TO REACHING MY GOALS. I CREATED A 1 YEAR PLAN TO GET MY DEGREE, HAS A CERTAIN GPA, AND ATTEND TOWSON UNIVERSITY IN THE FALL! I WAS ABLE TO SET GOALS FOR MYSELF, AND ACCOMPLISH THEM! I'VE SAID IT COUNTLESS TIMES ON MY RADIO SHOW, SOMETIMES YOU HAVE TO BE BROKEN DOWN TO BUILD YOURSELF UP AGAIN! 

TESTIFY TIME!! I WENT FROM FAILING OUT OF SCHOOL, BEING ON ACADEMIC PROBATION, WANTING TO QUIT, NOT DRIVEN, AND FEELING LIKE A FAILURE! I WASN'T MYSELF A COUPLE YEARS AGO, AND I REALLY HAD TO LOOK WITHIN MYSELF TO FIGURE OUT WHAT WAS GOING ON. I ALSO TURNED TO GOD AND PRAYED TO GET PAST THE MULTIPLE OBSTACLES I WAS FACING. I WAS MY OWN ENEMY, SO I NEEDED SOME MENTAL AND PHYSICAL HEALING. IT TOOK SOME TIME, MUCH GROWING TO DO, BUT I STARTED PROGRESSING MORE AND MORE. ONCE I FOCUSED ON THE POSITIVE RATHER THAN THE NEGATIVE, EVERYTHING BEGAN FALL IN PLACE! NOW I HAVE MY ASSOCIATES DEGREE, BUT I'M NOT STOPPING THERE! THIS IS JUST THE FIRST STEP TO MY ULTIMATE GOAL! THIS IS ALSO THE MOST IMPORTANT STEP IN ACHIEVING MY ULTIMATE GOAL! IF IT WEREN'T FOR BEING BROKEN DOWN AND BUILDING MYSELF BACK UP, I WOULDN'T BE AS CONFIDENT, FOCUSED OR DETERMINED AS I AM NOW! LIFE IS ABOUT GROWING AFTER ALL, AND I STILL HAVE MORE TO DO! I'M SO APPRECIATIVE FOR THE SUPPORT OF MY LOVED ONES! THEY'VE BEEN THERE FOR ME THROUGH EVERYTHING, AND I DEFINITELY WOULDN'T BE HERE WITHOUT THEM! 

REMEMBER, YOU CAN DO ANYTHING YOU PUT YOUR MIND TO! 

MY CURRENT HAIR ROUTINE!!

STAY TUNED LATER THIS WEEK FOR MY NATURAL HAIR ROUTINE!

THAT TIME I WAS FEATURED ON A NATURAL HAIR SITE!

I GOT SOME GREAT NEWS!!! MY NATURAL HAIR FEATURE IS

HERE!!!! =D

  http://thenaturalhairacademy.com/2015/04/30/natural-blogger-feature-denisha/

DON'T FORGET TO CHECK OUT MY OTHER BLOG POSTS AND SEGMENTS! 

TAKE CARE,

NISHA <3

WELCOME TO BEAUTY ENTHUSIAST!

WELCOME TO BEAUTY ENTHUSIAST! 

I'M DENISHA AND THIS IS MY NEW BLOG THAT FOCUSES ON HAIR AND MAKEUP! I'VE ALWAYS HAD AN INTEREST IN BEAUTY, STARTING AT A YOUNG AGE. I TALK ABOUT CONFIDENCE A LOT ON MY RADIO SHOW, AND THE IMPORTANCE OF IT! I HOPE TO ENCOURAGE, UPLIFT AND CELEBRATE WOMEN AND MEN TO LOVE THEMSELVES INSIDE AND OUT! MAKEUP IS SUCH A GREAT WAY TO EXPRESS YOURSELF WITHOUT WORDS! I LOVE EXPRESSING MYSELF, RATHER IS BE A BOMB ASS SMOKEY EYE LOOK OR A BOLD LIP! I HOPE YOU ENJOY THIS BLOG, AND LOVE IT AS MUCH AS I DO!

THANK YOU, DENISHA

MAY CURRENT FAVORITES!!

It's been a while since I blogged about my current favorites, so I thought I'd share what I've become obsessed with since February. I may space out my favorites every couple months, that way I can accumulate products, and it takes a while for me to actual say "I LOVE THIS PRODUCT BECAUSE...." Hopefully you'll see some products you may want to try out, introduced to something new or know and love!

HAIR

Shea Moisture Raw Shea Butter Deep Treatment Masque has been a favorite of mine since I discovered it during my transitioning months in 2014. As the masque states, it helps dry, damaged hair and helps to strengthen, heal and grow your hair. I did a review on the whole Raw Shea Butter line from Shea Moisture, if you'd like to check it out. The price of this product is ranges from $9-$12 depending on where you get it from, and if there's a deal on the product. Check your local Walgreens, CVS or Rite-Aid because they tend to have good deals on this brand!! **HOLY GRAIL PRODUCT**

Tresemme Naturals Conditioner was one of those products you hear everyone rave about! As a YouTube junkie, I was convinced by every natural I watched that this product was good...AND IT'S TRUE! I absolutely love the way this product leaves my hair feeling cleansed, moisturized and has GREAT SLIP!! I use this product a lot for co-washing! I did hear that the original formula was changed, but I hadn't tried the original, so I don't know what the difference is. I bought mine from the market for about $6, but I'm sure you can find this for a lot cheaper. This is definitely a product that I will purchase again!!

Shea Moisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie is another product that was hyped up by many. I initially bought this product because CVS was having a buy one get one FREE sale, and I couldn't pass this up! When I applied this product for my twist out, I WAS SO AMAZED BY HOW MUCH IT ENHANCED MY NATURAL CURLS! This product is around $12, but as I stated you can find a deal at the drugstore. Target sells this brand too, so check there for deals. It's best to stock up on Shea Moisture products when they have deals..especially the BOGO sales!

Shea Moisture Raw Shea Butter Conditioner as you can see there's a trend going on with Shea Moisture, which tells you that I really love this brand! The masque and the conditioner are apart of the Raw Shea Butter line. This conditioner is great because you can use it as a deep conditioner (at least I have), or a leave-in! Be mindful to use a little of the product as a leave-in!! The price ranges depending on what store you get it from. Typically the price can be between $10-$12.

Shea Moisiure Superfruit Complex:10-in-1 Renewal System Conditioner is HEAVEN! It's this product so pretty to look at. When Shea Moisture first put out this product, I was instantly wanting to try it! Since I mainly co-wash, I reached for the conditioner first among the line. The first thing you notice is the smell of the product, which I LOVE! I like the texture of the product too. This product has 10 benefits, hence 10-in-1: Age-Defy, Nourish, Anti-Stress, Revive Body, Color Protect, Shine, Hydrate, Strengthen, Manageability, Soften. With all those benefits, why wouldn't you grab this product IMMEDIATELY!!! This product is about $11, not bad at all!

Vell'uptuous Skin 'Shea Hair and Body Whipped Cream is new to my collection, but it's already a favorite of mine. This past weekend, I attending the Philly Natural Hair Show. I love when I can test a product out before purchasing it. I tested the product on my dry hands, and it immediately absorbed into my skin. It left my hand feeling WONDERFUL! YASSSSSSS! Not only can you use this product on your skin, but your hair as well! THERE'S ONLY 4 INGREDIENTS IN THIS PRODUCT: RAW SHEA BUTTER, OLIVE OIL, COCONUT OIL, AND VITAMIN E OIL!!! It was $10 and not a bad price at all, and I can probably make this at home if I wanted to!!! YASSSSSSSSSSSS! 

Wide Tooth Comb now this is an ESSENTIAL tool everyone with hair should be using! Since I began transitioning, I only use wide tooth combs. They are 1. COST EFFICIENT, 2. COME IN DIFFERENT SHAPES AND SIZES, AND 3. EASES THE DETANGLING PROCESS! You can get these almost anywhere, and usually only cost a couple bucks! Trust me, once you start using this comb, you won't turn back!

 

SKIN

Clean & Clear Advantage Mark Treatment is one of those products that you need to have the moment a pimple appears. I like to put this product on my pimple the moment it appears. Though I haven't notice it do much for my acne marks, the size of the pimple decreases overnight. The price point is around $7-$9. Using white toothpaste is an alternative, and more cost efficient. 

Biore Blemish Fighting Ice Cleanser always has me coming back for more. I love the way this product makes my skin feel, and does the job. I've tried a couple products from Biore, and for the most part they're a good brand. The cooling sensation I get from this product is my favorite thing about it. Especially when I'm taking a warm shower. When my pores are opened, it deep cleans more! You can get this product for about $8 depending where you find it!

Simple Cleansing Micellar Water is a decent product to have in your collection if you just need an every morning cleanser. I bought this product because I heard a YouTuber rave about it. I really like the idea of the product, but like I said it's good to use in the morning. The product claims to 'cleanse, remove makeup and hydrate', but I found using it more of the product to take off my makeup. It was around $7, so I'm not mad about spending the money, since it is still a relatively good product. Will I purchase this product again though? Yes. 

 MAKEUP

Urban Decay Ammo Palette  is BEAUTIFUL! I love UD a lot, and I've mentioned them in my February favorites before! They do a great job at producing great eye shadow colors, and the Ammo Palette is one of those palettes you need to get your hands on! I bought this palette for $16, which isn't bad for UD. You get 10 shimmer eye shadows that are very pigmented, and great for this time of the year! It comes with a little brush and the original Eyeshadow Primer Potion. I'm not the biggest fan of the primer, but the colors are great! 

Lorac Pocket Pro Palette was a STEAL in my opinion! This is the first purchase from Lorac I've made, and I want more. This palette is travel friendly, and you can create a day or a night look with all three colors. It's a very pigmented palette as well, so a little goes a long way...especially for Espresso! If you want to try Lorac, BUY THIS! It's $15=MANY MAKEUP LOOKS!

Loreal 12hr Infallible 'The Super Slim' Eye Line was a "THANK GOD I GOT THIS" purchase. I was looking for a new eyeliner because the one I was using at the time SUCKED! I usually gravitate towards thick/dramatic cat eyes, but I was surprised that I was able to achieve that look with this liner. It also helps me handle it better since it's thin. I purchased this for $9, and it's definitely 'MUST REPURCHASE ITEM'!

Maybelline Rocket Mascara 'Waterproof Formula' is my FAVORITE MASCARA! I'm pretty sure I learned about this product through YouTube. I bought this product and haven't looked back. The waterproof formula is better in my opinion because it holds the curl better. I purchase other mascaras, but this one is the best drugstore mascara I have purchased thus far! I love the length that I get with this mascara, and my friend thought I was wearing false lashes...NOPE! That's how amazing this mascara is! This is roughly $6, but the drugstore is always having says on Maybelline, so you can get this cheaper! Try this product!

I HOPE YOU LIKED THIS POST, AND STAY TUNED FOR MORE REVIEWS, FAVORITES, BEAUTY TALK AND MORE ON THIS BLOG! 

FEBRUARY MAKEUP FAVORITES!

I haven't made a blog post about makeup since 2012!!! I can't believe it because I love makeup and wear it almost everyday. I'm more of an eyes look than the whole foundation, contour, highlight and all that stuff. From time to time, I will do a full face minus the contour and highlight (haven't tried that out yet). I wanted to do an update from the last blog post and talk about what I'm loving right now. If you've read 'Eye Shadow Love' (one of my most popular posts), then you already know some of the basic rules when it comes to eye shadow.

Now I want to talk about some of my favorite makeup products in the past two years:

First off my favorite foundation is Urban Decay's Naked Skin Foundation!! I am in the process of trying out new foundations, but I love this foundation. It's a medium to full coverage foundation, which is great if you want to cover any imperfections. I love the range of colors this comes in as well (picture below). As an African American (dark skin) woman, it's usually hard to find foundations that will match me well. Usually they will either have me looking like a ghost, too orange or they just don't have the color. Especially drug store foundations. Most stores don't carry a huge range. I'm very excited to get my hands on Shea Moisture's Cosmetic Line (available at Target). I love their hair products (Review on 'CoffeeNofilter with Denisha' blog)!

PRIMERS

If there's anything you take from this post is that PRIMERS ARE YOUR BEST FRIEND AND MAKEUP SAVIOR! I can't stress that enough! There's nothing better than having a great foundation, eye, or lip primer! Not only will your makeup last ALL DAY, you're makeup will look 10x better from the beginning of the day until you take it off. When I first started wearing makeup, I had no idea what primer was. When I was first introduced to Too Faced Shadow Insurance Primer (left). I love the formulation of this primer and it doesn't leave a white residue on my eyes like other primers I have tried. This retails for about $18-$20 so if you want something that is a dupe for this product I would go with Wet n' Wild's Take On The Day Shadow Primer (right). I was actually told about this product through a customer when I worked at Walgreens. When I have the money to splurge on Too Faced I will, but in the meantime this $6 product does the job. 

BRUSHES

When I first began using makeup, I would either use my hands (priceless tool) or the little applicators that came with the packaging (not the best but..useful). Since then, I have been experimenting with different brands, and I'm still expanding my brush collection because I don't clean my brushes like I should! NOTE: CLEAN THEM EVERYDAY!! I'm not going to go into detail much about Every brush, just the ones I'm loving at the moment. 

 To the left: The Beauty Blender which is one of the most talked about applicators for foundation, highlight, cream blush, and just an all over great product. I love that with this product I get a flawless foundation look. After all it's important to BLEND BLEND BLEND that makeup!

To the left: As a YouTube beauty addict, I couldn't pass up this brush. And now I know why everyone on there raves about it so much. Real Techniques Expert Face Brush is the bees knees! Another great brush that does a fantastic job of buffing that foundation into the skin. Can be found at Ulta! 

 QOSMEDIX (below) is a great site if you want to get more bang for your buck when it comes to all things makeup tools. This is great for any makeup artist (beginner or expert), who wants to add to their kit. I found out about this site on YT and I haven't looked back since. Their brushes are high quality which I love and you can get a ton of product for little cost. Though there is a standard minimum order amount (not EXPENSIVE!), you can get things from cotton swabs to storage containers for traveling to your clients. They have pretty much everything you need. I just received my catalog in the mail and I'm in love with everything.

Bh Cosmetics has always been a great find since I've gotten more into makeup. Not only is this an affordable site to get makeup, but they always have great deals to get more band for your buck!!! 

Bh Cosmetics brushes (to the left) is just a few of the selection that they have on their site. They have sets and singles if you want to create your own set! 

EYE SHADOW

NYX Cosmetics is a great company that sells inexpensive makeup and their products are sold at various locations. The pictures below is just some of the products that have. 

O_O whenever I see huge selections of NYX in a store.

These jumbo eye shadow sticks from NYX Cosmetics are great alone, or as a base for your eye shadow to stick to. This creates an even more vibrant color pay off for the look. Aren't these beautiful colors?!?

Once again Bh Cosmetics has to be mentioned due to the fact that you can get a range of eye shadow colors for a low price. The only down fall I have to say is that some of the shadows you have to pack on to get a color pay off more than others. But overall these palettes (below) help you create a ton of looks. Who doesn't love play in makeup when you're bored? *Raises hands*

Neutral Palettes are always great to way to take your look from day to night. Also great for beginners who are afraid of a ton of color. It helps to guide you into applying colors and getting a feel for different looks! 

To the left: I have a few of these palettes and there's still colors I have yet to try. There's so many looks you can create with these colors. If you are like me and love some bright looks, definitely check these out!

Tarte Cosmetics has become a new favorite of mine after purchasing their 2014 holiday set (below). I currently use this palette for my everyday makeup looks. The shadows are like butter and glide on so effortlessly. I just can't get enough of this collection. From the lips to the mascara (mentioned below), they are doing great things at this company! I have to explore more with them!!!

MASCARA

ALL 3 OF THE PRODUCTS I'M ABOUT TO TALK ABOUT ARE GREAT MASCARAS! Starting where I just left off is Tarte Cosmetics 'Lights, Camera, Lashes' Mascara. This product does a wonderful job at lengthening your lashes making yo look like you have false lashes on. I gave my little sister one of these that came in the 2014 holiday collection (above), but she lost it. She cried over this product because it's that great! So that tells you something right there that this product is worth the hype!! 

Next up is Maybelline Colossal Cat Eye Mascara (below)!!!!! VOLUME VOLUME VOLUME!!! This is went back to product. My little sister told me about this and she loved this so much, I had to give it a shot. I completely forgot I had this until I was doing my makeup yesterday. I really like how small the brush is because I can really work the product on my lashes. Also, I gave my lashes a few coats of this product and the happy dance was in full effect!

Lastly is my "use it til the last drop" mascara. Maybelline Rocket Mascara (waterproof formula) is that mascara that just hits the right spot. I've used this mascara for years. I just ran out so you already know I'm going to repurchase this again! It gives a great length to my lashes and the waterproof formula gets my lashes a better hold than the regular formula. Whenever I wear this I just feel complete; since I've been using it for so long!

LIPS

I wasn't always a fan of wearing much lip products until a few years back. I wasn't a lip gloss person because I always found them too shiny (like you just ate something greasy), and sticky! Now that I'm older, I'm experimenting more with different lip colors and formulations. 

Carmex is always my go to lip product regardless if I'm wearing makeup or not. The formulation of this product is great for those winter months to keep your lips from cracking and looking a hot ass mess! It leaves a nice tingling sensation on my lips that lets me know it's working. It's inexpensive and usually has a deal at Walgreens, so you can stock up whenever you run out! Lastly, it gives a nice shine to your lips if you are wearing makeup and want a little shine! 

 To the left: Wet n' Wild's lipstick in 'Cherry Bomb' is a beautiful shade that compliments my beautiful completion. I like pairing this lip color with a simple wing look to give some edge to it.

To the left and right: Revlon Colorburst Matte Balm in 'Shameless' is a beautiful purple shade. I always get asked when I'm wearing when I have this color on. The perfect pop of color that I wear all year round. It will never go out of style for me!!

NYX Cosmetics Butter Gloss in the shade 'Eclair'  is the first nude color I have worn. As I mentioned before, I was never a fan of lip gloss. However, this is a perfect shade that compliments many complexions. I like the fact that I can use a little or a lot. Sometimes I will put this on top of my Carmex lip balm to add some color. Oh and the SMELL OF THIS IS AMAZING! It's a mixture between sugar cookies and butter scotch! And unlike the typical gloss, it's not sticky but feels like butter; hence butter gloss!

Below are just a couple looks I've took from my Facebook page. I love to take pictures of my looks up close so you can see the colors better. Also, my favorite feature are my eyes (thanks mommy)! My mom has beautiful eyes, and she was the first person I learned about makeup from. I would watch her get ready for work in the morning as she would apply her makeup! She is an eyeliner person, and I always think she looks like an Egyptian Queen when she wears it! Shout out to Umi for being my inspiration!

I REALLY HOPE YOU HAVE ENJOYED READING TODAY'S BLOG! I HAD SUCH A GREAT TIME CREATING THIS FOR YOU! WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR CURRENT FAVORITE PRODUCTS? 

TALK TO YOU LATER!!! 

NISHA <3

**CLOSED! WINNER CONTACTED**Hair Product Review: Shea Moisture 'Raw Shea Butter & Argan Oil Repair and Transition Kit' and **GIVEAWAY** NOT SPONSORED!

Hey coffee addicts,

Hope you had a wonderful week, and I hope coffee was involved! Also, Pumpkin Spice Coffee/Latte is back...I've been on it like no tomorrow.

As you've read the title, I've be doing a hair product review. Since March, I've been on this "going back to natural" journey.

*WANT A CHANCE TO WIN THIS PRODUCT? KEEP READING FOR MORE INFORMATION!*

Reasons I decided to go back to natural:
1. I've found that relaxers weren't doing anything for my hair anymore, and I was like well what's the point in continuously placing this chemical on/inside me.
2. Also, it does more harm than good, but like a lot of things I was doing it (hypocrite).
3. The last two times I've gone to the hair salon to get it done, they just blow it out really good. It looked like I had a fresh relaxer after styling. (I did have a lot of relaxed, but my roots were laid is what I mean)
4. BREAKAGE!!!
(yes, I have a top on)BEFORE!


IN THE BEGINNING
I think either mid to the end of March was when I decided to just stop the relaxer all together. In the beginning, it was cool because I still had a lot of relaxed and a little bit of new growth. Usually around the warmer months June/July is when I would normally braid my hair; however, I didn't want the easy way out because I figured this isn't a temporary thing for me. My hair is VERY THICK/COARSE/HARD TO COMB/TANGLE CITY!!! But I was up for the challenge to see how far I'd get through the summer months wearing my hair out. Surprisingly, I didn't very well this summer and even did a roller set a few times. The problem started when more new growth started coming in.

My hair started to tangle like crazy, and my edges were suffering from the pulling and tugging I was doing. The hair products I was using before no longer worked for me. I was always going to Creme of Nature for my hair problems, but I think when the original formula changed, my hair was no longer a fan. Now that I have about 4-5 inches of new growth, I needed something that was going to treat my natural and relaxed hair EQUALLY! My constant Google searches on how other people treated the same issue wasn't working for me. REMEMBER: EVERY ONE'S HAIR IS DIFFERENT FROM YOURS, SO NOT EVERY PRODUCT WILL WORK THE SAME! I wasn't so concerned about having the "baby hairs" or being part of the "curly hair crew". I just wanted to make sure that my hair was MANAGEABLE!

I can say that Coconut Oil is one of the best for detangling my hair. I always have trouble getting the tangles in the front/top of my hair. That's where my edges are becoming weaker (stated above). I've never had weak edges, so this SCARES ME! 

TRIAL AND ERROR
My friend Ashley suggested that I try Shea Moisture products. Ashley (who is my go to hair consultant), said that she likes them. I wasn't too thrilled on the price of the products, but at the same time you get what you pay for. I finally decided I was going to just try them because Walgreens was having a BOGO sale on Shea Moisture! Like I mentioned before, I wanted a product that was going to work good with my natural and relaxed hair, so I was happy they had the Transition Kit. Me being the trial and error person, I threw my hands up thinking what's the worse that can happen...I don't like it, return it and try something else.

WHAT YOU GET
The Walgreens price is $22.99 which isn't bad because you would get two regular sizes for about that price.

You get four 4 oz. of each product: Shampoo and Conditioner, Deep Treatment Masque and Elixir Finishing Spray

*I also like that it doesn't have all those nasty chemicals found in a lot of the hair products I use to use.*

OMG, WHERE DID I GET IT (MEAN GIRLS REFERENCE)

Walgreens

*You may be able to find it cheaper somewhere else though...if so LET A SISTA KNOW!! Thank you ;)*

WHAT YOU NEED

Wide tooth comb

Thermal cap/Plastic bag

Hair ties

Spray bottle filled with water (OPTIONAL)

Coconut Oil (helps to detangle)

Jamaican Black Castor Oil (OPTIONAL)

Additional conditioner (OPTIONAL)

HOW I USED THE PRODUCTS

Step 1: Section hair in four parts. Tie use either hair clips or hair ties to secure them. 

Step 2: Detangle each section thoroughly. 

 

 Step 3: Shampoo each section. Make sure to massage your head rather than scratch. For years I was using my nails...NO NO NO! NO BUENO! Rinse. If you need to repeat, then do it.

Step 4: Apply the conditioner (root to tip) evenly. I used my wide tooth comb to help distribute it more.

Step 5: If you are going to wash your hair in the shower, you can go ahead and do your regular routine, while the products does it's job. If not, you can massage just sit and wait for the time allotted (I believe 5 minutes).

Step 6: Rinse each section one at a time thoroughly. Twist the sections of hair and place them back (picture above).

Step 7: Instead of using a towel to dry your hair, use an old t-shirt. This will help DECREASE the frizz. It also speeds up the drying time.

Step 8: Since my hair dries very quickly, I went ahead and strayed each section until my roots were a bit damp. 

Step 9: Place some Coconut Oil and Jamaican Black Castor Oil on each section of hair for further detangling before the deep treatment masque. Comb each section. (this is optional, but I found that the product left my hair a bit dry)

New growth (where this curl come from?)

Step 10: Repeat Step 4! Make sure during this process you keep the four sections divided. This will make everything easier!!

Hair is getting longer...shrinkage though

Step 11: Place the thermal cap/plastic bag on your head. Leave for the allotted time, or for as long as you need it. *I left the product in my hair for 40 minutes. I also massaged the product in my hair to penetrate my scalp more.*

From this point, I made me a cup of coffee, and was on the computer!

Step 12: Rinse each section thoroughly and use the wide tooth comb during this process. 

**NOTE: My hair still felt dry, so I used my Carol's Daughter conditioner to soften my hair**

Step 13: Repeat Step 7. Then comb your hair ENDS TO ROOT!

*At this point, you can style your hair as usual, or you can continue reading*

Step 14: The elixir says to only use it after styling your hair with a heating tool. However, I'm over using a blow dryer these days because it takes hours to go through my 2 textured hair! I was most pleased with this product because it left shine and softened my hair. Taking down one section at a time, I simply braided four individual braids per section. I also took this time to clip my ends because....dang!

(I placed a bonnet on my head and went to sleep)

NEXT DAY (TAKE DOWN AND RESULTS)

In the morning I sectioned my hair in for parts and began taking my braids down. To help with the frizz, use coconut oil or some other oil...just a little...or even the elixir. 

I was pleased by how soft my hair had become after using the products. My hair doesn't feel weighted down by the stray. I can definitely run my hands through my roots with ease. That's a plus!

AFTER

PROS 

• Smells good
• Softened my hair
• Added shine
• Moisturized
• Controls frizz
• Elixir is GREAT!

CONS

• Not the best at detangling
• Shampoo left my hair feeling dry
• Had to use an additional conditioner to retain the moisture other than the elixir spray

RATINGS

8/10

Other than the cons listed below, this product was good. If I had to go from best product to the least in the kit would be the elixir spray, conditioner, deep treatment masque and shampoo. 

The shampoo and masque were ok, but not great. The shampoo left my hair feeling dry and stripped, while the mask didn't seem like anything new to me. In other words, I didn't feel much of a different. 

The elixir was FANTASTIC! It was like having coffee after you haven't had it in a week. The conditioner helped bring that moisture to my hair after I used the shampoo. 

*I will do an updated review as I use the product more. I try not to shampoo it too often, but I will use the elixir and the conditioner (co-wash) more.*

Hope you found this product review helpful and informative. If you would like more, don't forget to leave a comment and tell me. Also let me know what other products you like. 

GIVEAWAY

I'VE SAID I WANTED TO DO A LITTLE GIVEAWAY FOR A WHILE NOW. JUST A LITTLE THANK YOU!!!!

WANT A KIT OF YOUR OWN?? READ THE INFORMATION BELOW FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN. DEPENDING ON HOW THIS GOES I WILL DO MORE IN THE FUTURE! 

GOOD LUCK!

HOW TO ENTER

**OPEN TO EVERYONE (INTERNATIONAL AND U.S.)**

**GIVEAWAY CLOSES 9/26 MIDNIGHT**

**WINNER ANNOUNCED ON MY FACEBOOK PAGE EITHER 9/27 OR 9/28**

RULES

1. Like my Facebook page CoffeeNOfilter with Denisha: https://www.facebook.com/coffeenofilterwithDenisha?ref=bookmarks
2. Follow me on my radio show CoffeeNofilter with Denisha: (this is one of my segments) http://tobtr.com/s/6882123
3. Follow me on my blog CoffeeNofilter with Denisha: coffeenofilterwithdenisha.blogspot.com
4. Follow me on Twitter: Ninibonitachica

*Let me know if you have an issue with one of the links*

3 WAYS TO WIN

Facebook or Twitter: 

• Leave a comment with the #coffeenofilterwithdenisha  plus Retweet/Share!!

Radio: 

• Listen to one of my segments and on my fb page which one is your FAVORITE!

Blog:

• Leave a comment below telling me what your favorite hair care product is. (natural, transitioning, relaxed)

ALSO, you CAN enter as many times as you want to. I encourage you to listen to whatever segment you want. There's plenty of variety. As a bonus, let me know what you want to hear more of...same with the blog. Want more product reviews or what other giveaways in the future you'd want?

**THIS ISN'T SPONSORED! I USED MY HARD EARNED MONEY TO BUY YOU THIS GIFT AS A THANK YOU FOR THE AWESOME SUPPORT! I'M NOT ON THAT SPONSORED LEVEL YET! BHAHAH** I know how people feel about those overly sponsored reviews!

Gonna relax with a cup of coffee on this rainy day!!!

PEACE!