Hair Archives
Crazy Hair Alert!
Unfortunately, I was not one of those lucky people born with beautiful, silky-straight hair. Mom and Dad had curly hair, so I didn't even have a chance. Instead of accepting the genes I inherited, I spent most of my teen years fighting my natural curls with a blowdryer and straightening iron.
Years later, I finally realized that taking an hour and a half to do your hair every morning is just not worth it (sleep is so much better!). I've finally learned to embrace my curls after finding (through much trial and error) an amazing product from Paul Mitchell.
This Sculpting Foam (Medium Hold) is a conditioning mousse that gives your curls lift without the sticky, crunchy-hard texture that comes with other alcohol-laden mousses. For even more moisture, try a great tip I learned from my hair stylist: start with a dime-sized amount of any hair serum (such as Biosilk Silk Therapy Treatment or John Frieda Frizz-Ease Hair Serum
) and then dispense the foam directly on top, mix it together and scrunch it into your hair. You'll get bouncy, shiny curls that last all day!
Posted by Tara on October 19, 2006
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Ohhhh, that tingles!
I've finally found a shampoo and conditioner I love - the scent, the bubbles, and even the way the conditioner feels cool on my scalp!
It's by a company called Pureology; their products are 100% vegan, completely biodegradable, made especially for coloured-treated hair and boy do they smell good! I love the Hydrate shampoo and conditioner; it has an AntiFadeComplex, which extends and provides protection for my hair color.
They also have shampoos and conditioners for Volume
I find it a bit on the expensive side for shampoo, but my hair is totally worth it! Give it a try...you'll be glad you did!
Posted by Janet on October 26, 2006
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Fresh haircare pampers my dull mop
While on a recent trip to LA (Thanks to Ford), I discovered the best shampoo and conditioner in the whole wide world. No joke!
I've been having this issue with my hair lately - it's been dull and dry and just not a whole lot of fun to be with. Which really stinks because I spend a lot of money on my hair and you know, that just ain't fair! But when I tried these two, my hair felt like silk! You've got to check it out!
Ladies, meet Fresh Soy Shampoo which has an almost honey-like consistency, smelled wonderful and gave a rich, full lather; and Fresh Pomegranate Conditioning Hair Rinse
that is so light and moisturizing and has the most wonderful smell I could almost eat it!
Don't forget yesterday's coupon code:
Get free shipping on ANY purchase (no minimum, ladies!) at Sephora with coupon code WELCOME2.
Thanks to Average Jane for reminding me about this discovery!
Posted by megan on August 9, 2007
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BIG TALK about Small Talk
I have fine hair. It's one of those things in life that you can't change. You just have to learn how to work with it. I have tried a multitude of products and haven't found one that works until now! Small Talk from Bed Head! My hairdresser introduced me to it and I have been in love with it since. Because you only need a small amount, one bottle lasts a long time. Its amazing! My hair looks and feels thicker, no frizz, and has amazing volume! The best part? No crunchy stiff hair that often plagues us girls who have fine hair!
Available for a great price at Beautydeals! Enter 258 at checkout for $2 off your first order!
Posted by Darlene on August 14, 2007
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Another great shampoo/conditioner combo by Fresh!
Megan recently posted about Fresh Soy Shampoo and conditioner. I was intrigued and clicked on the links she provided. While there, I read about Rice Shampoo and Fresh Meadowfoam Cream Treatment Conditioner
and thought my hair could really use them; I permed AND colored my hair awhile back and let's just say it needs some help.
I used those two products yesterday morning and all I can say is WOW! My hair is soft and shiny and looks so much better! I do believe my hair just sighed. Thank you,
Fresh, for your amazing products!
Posted by Janet on August 24, 2007
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Kérastase color-treated hair Hall of Famer!
Ladies, I write to you all today to let you in on my secret to soft, shiny, vibrant and healthy hair. I have used many kinds of shampoos and conditioners but I believe I have found a Hall of Famer! The Kérastase Bain Miror Shine-Revealing Shampoo for sensitized color-treated hair and Chroma Reflect Masque Radiance-Enhancing Masque for very sensitized color-treated hair has REALLY transformed my hair. My 'do is shoulder length, color treated and flippy, so I use a hairdryer and flatiron on it daily so it goes through the wringer. The first two weeks post coloring, my hair always looks super shiny and vibrant. I love that rich, true and deep tone I get, but sure enough it always starts to fade and look less and less shiny.
Recently I got the chance to try the Kérastase line. I am one of those girls who has read about Kérastase in magazines and seen tabloid television shows that rave about these products, I am here to join in and give my two biggest thumbs up or should I just give this line my two flips of the 'do up. LOL!
The very first time washing and conditioning my hair, I noticed a difference. These have a soft floral scent that doesn't carry when rinsed out, so if you add a lot of products you don't have to worry about conflicting scent, these dissipate. I usually find that after a shampoo my 'do feels kind of like a lump on my head with some tangles. The Bain Miror Shine-Revealing Shampoo rinses and my 'do feels like corn silk; like I had conditioned it, it's AMAZING.
I really didn't have to use the Chroma Reflect Masque Radiance-Enhancing Masque, but I did. I scooped out a small amount and left it on while I washed up for about five to seven minutes. When I rinsed again it was so soft and tangle free. Of course, the real test was styling, and I think this was one of the first times that I could run a comb through my 'do without a tug.
This first time using the shampoo and conditioner, I didn't use any product just the dryer and immediately noticed that my 'do laid really flat with little to no flyaways and color shined and shined I felt like my hair was revitalized, I couldn't and still can't believe it.
After using the Kérastase , I have found that I don't need to use this on a daily basis, I can use it about twice a week and the other days my hair is still looking soft, shiny and more manageable. I have already used up my first bottle of both and am working my way through my second. I will always have this in the shower arsenal ready to go.
I really love that even though my color isn't new the color gets a boost and the shine is amazing! These are a couple products well worth my hard earned dough!!
Posted by Denise on September 5, 2007
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Bumble and Bumble Alojoba - six million hair products in one two!
If 
Well, Bumble and Bumble's Alojoba Shampoo and Conditioner 
First off: This isn't your ordinary shampoo. With lots of natural organic ingredients, you know a little bit more about where your haircare is coming from. Secondly, it lathers less. This is important, because most people are used to lots of suds, but those suds are one of the things that actually cause your hair to dry out. With this shampoo, less lathering chemicals are used (although they're still there), so instead of a poofy foam, you get a very understated creamy lather that rinses off easily. There is a temptation to use more shampoo than you normally would because of this, but once you're used to it you'll use the same amount as usual.
Both the shampoo and conditioner have a very fresh, not overpowering scent, and a nice creamy texture.
I used these products then let my hair air dry. And the result? My hair is definitely softer and less frizzy even after just one use. This is good stuff. I do object to the marketing of the product as "organic", since there are still plenty of non-organic ingredients in the list, but if this isn't your only concern then this product might make your hair finally do what you want it to do. Wouldn't that be nice?
Posted by Shannon on September 24, 2007
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I'm hitched
I am hitched and have some fabulous stuff to review. I love products so instead of hiring someone I decided to do my hair and make-up myself, that way, I can keep all my own products. First was some unbelievable foundation I found. I have freckles but didn't want to cover them, I didn't want to look painted; I wanted to be me just a little brighter! MAC makes a great lightweight foundation that felt great on my skin. 
For my lips, well that was a bit of a challenge. I have a really hard time liking any color on my lips. After trying about twenty different shades and textures I found Stila Long Wear Lip Color; exquisite. It feels awesome, not like most long wear lipsticks that are thick, tacky or cakey.
Next was the hard part, my hair. I wanted to leave my hair down but had no idea how to get that cool wavy beach hair. A friend recommended the Revlon Hair Waver. I'll be honest when I opened this up I was apprehensive; it looks like an assault weapon! My bff came over and did a test run and it worked fabulously. Combined with Redken Hair starch It created just the look I was hoping for.
Lastly was the fragrance. Stacked Style Carnival Crush. Sent of peaches and Jasmine, light, fruity and clean. It's my favorite.
Posted by Krista on October 14, 2007
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Bumble and bumble's Curl Conscious Conditioner delivers lots of curls!
Bumble and Bumble's Curl Conscious Creme for Fine to Medium Hair is an amazing product! I got a sample from my hairdresser and... you know how it is, you put it with all the other samples and maybe forget about it, or grab some when you're going on a short trip.
Well, recently I was searching and searching for a product that would help to define my (permed) curls and had forgot all about the sample. I tried one kind (made my hair crispy feeling) and another kind (smelled nice, but didn't do a thing) and one day I tried the Bumble and Bumble's Curl Conscious Creme sample. WOW! It has a patent pending curl enhancing ingredient that actually does what it claims to!
The box includes directions easy to use directions if you want to make your curly hair even curlier; if you just want to define what you've got, put a dollop (about the size of a dime) in your hands and work it well through your hair, from the roots to the end. Air dry or use a diffuser and voila! Soft, frizz-free curls!
Posted by Janet on October 30, 2007
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Curl-Ease makes drying curly hair easy!
I love mine, although I have to pay for them (bone straight hair, don't you know). The only thing I DON'T like is having to wait forever for my hair to dry! 
Wait no more! Curl-Ease to the rescue! This ultra-thin towel is also ultra-absorbent; wrap it around your head after shampooing, wait 15-20 minutes (you know, while you're putting on makeup or getting dressed), and voilà! Ready for styling...or just ready to go if you're like me and often need a wash, comb and go morning.
I love this towel and am SO glad to have been able to give it a try. Do you have any curly haired friends? Give this to them for Christmas, they'll love you for it!
Posted by Janet on December 6, 2007
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Make a Wish - it just may come true!
What would it take for your dreams could come true?
New Car?
New House?
Shopping Spree?
Enter the “Beautiful
Wishes” contest for a chance to have your wishes granted! Capessa, a new online female
community plays “Genie in a Bottle”, along with hair care company
Pantene, by making dreams a reality for women everywhere.
Capessa readers are invited to share their experiences and submit their ultimate wish list. Entrants can wish for themselves, their loved ones, even their own communities. For every Wish made, $1 will be donated on behalf of the wish-maker to a Pantene charity. One lucky Georgia woman has already had her wish granted, and in February another Capessa reader will get her opportunity, as chosen by The Pantene “Beautiful Wishes” panel of judges. Entrants can also take a peek at over 8,000 other wish lists from all across the country.
Pantene has teamed up with the newly launched Capessa.com, to focus on the sites readers - everyday women sharing personal life experiences and providing each other with genuine inspiration. Capessa offers professionally produced videos, exclusive to the site, along with discussion boards, relevant blogs, and topical articles. Capessa believes in providing a safe and supportive environment that is not only made up of women, but is run by them as well.
Posted by megan on January 29, 2008
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My Arcona Hair Care Top Three
We've become huge fans of Arcona here at A Girl Must Shop. We just can't get enough!
Having most recently tried the Green Tea Cleansing Base Shampoo, Essential Nutrients Karite Conditioner, and Essential Nutrients Silk Leave-in Conditioner, I'm now a devoted fan for life.
The ultra-mild Hypo-Allergenic shampoo smells lovely and while it's not as thick as other shampoos, it gives a great lather and cleans with only one shot with means no rinse, lather and repeat!
The conditioner is fabulous - a little goes a long way and my hair is always smooth and shiny after my shower. Of course that could also be the leave-in conditioner that does triple-duty as a sun/heat protectant. Either way it makes my hair feel like it's been to a day at the spa - every day!
What's better than that? Get some for yourself at Arcona.com or find an authorized spa or other retailers in your area.
Posted by megan on May 4, 2008
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FREE samples for Sephora Beauty Insiders!
Sephora Beauty Insiders only!!!
Get 7 free eye samples with any $25 purchase. Enter code JULYEYES at checkout.
Not a Sephora Beauty Insider?
Head on over to Sephora.com, and click on the Beauty Insider image on the bottom left of the web site. It's free and you get:
- Beauty Bank points with every Sephora purchase, then redeem them for a free deluxe sample each time your Beauty Bank balance reaches $100.
- First dibs on the hottest new beauty products with Beauty Insider-only pre-launches.
- Score invites to private shopping nights and Insider-only events
- Personalized beauty ideas, tips and products based on your favorites.
- Get a FREE gift on your birthday!
Posted by megan on July 6, 2008
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Straight Ahead Hair Styling
I love my new haircut, but I don't love blow-drying and flat-ironing my wavy hair straight. It really is not that big of a problem, except on the days that I wake up late. But the good news is that I found a line of styling products that really do help me style my hair faster - John Frieda's Frizz-Ease Straight Ahead Style-Activating Shampoo (and conditioner).
I probably would not have normally tried this shampoo because I don't consider my hair frizzy at all, but these products really help by reducing the time I have to spend flat ironing my hair.
Not only that but I notice significantly less fly-away strands of hair, my hair is shiny and soft and has a pleasant scent. I highly recommend for those with slightly wavy hair like mine.
Posted by Amy on July 10, 2008
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What's pretty and pink and perfect for the summer?
Why, it's Aquolina's Pink Sugar, of course! Light, sweet and lively, it's my favorite summer scent.
I was just browsing Sephora and came across this adorable pink swirly beach bag containing:
- Body Spritzer
- Shower Mousse
- Hair Perfume
- Deodorant Spray.
And, don't forget your 7 Free eye samples with any $25 order. Just enter code EYESAMPLES at checkout. *While supplies last.
Posted by megan on July 14, 2008
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Summer spritzing
I use spray toners all year round, but it's summer when I really up the ante.
I find they really cool me down and give my face the refreshment it craves during hot, humid days. I always have one on hand, and even carry one in my purse for an instant pick-me-up. I find they're especially useful if you're out all day (say, at the beach or a music festival) and then have evening plans that don't factor in time to go home and freshen up. A few sprays on your face and neck and even in your hair is usually enough to make you feel fresher.
I thought I'd give a run-down of three of my favourites. I've tried a countless number and these are the ones I continue to go back to.
- Mario Badescu Facial Spray with Aloe, Herbs and Rosewater
This spray is both refreshing and moisturizing. It has a light, flowery scent and gives your skin a nice, dewy glow when applied directly after foundation or tinted moisturizer. - John Masters Organics Lavender Hydrating Mist for Skin and Hair
This soothing spray has anti-inflammatory properties, which I find essential in the summer. Skin can get red and blotchy from the heat, but a quick spritz can help calm the skin's surface. I also love that this spray is meant for both skin and hair. - Refresh Me Rosewater Toner
I like the light scent and fine mist of this toner. It's great for setting make-up, and if you keep it in the fridge, I find it makes for a great morning refresher for your skin. Don't get me wrong, I still need my coffe, but this is a nice bonus!
Posted by Jessica on July 17, 2008
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Enter to win $150 Sephora gift cards & more with V05!
How good a flirt are you? Find out by playing this cute little flirting game sponsored by V05 - who has also partnered with us to give away this FREE V05 Makeover Prize Pack to one lucky reader.
The V05 Makeover Prize Pack includes:
- The entire 7-piece VO5 Extreme Style collection
- CHI flat iron
- $150 Sephora gift card
One lucky commenter will be randomly chosen to win this great gift. So, what are you waiting for? Leave your comment below and ENTER TODAY!
Hurry! Deadline for entries is: Wednesday, August 6, 2008 at 11:59 EST.
Good luck!
Posted by megan on August 6, 2008
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The 4-step guide to fabulous hair
There was a point in my life when I hated my hair; blow-drying took forever and left my hair looking like a poofy mess. That was before I was introduced to a flat iron and my fabulous stylist. I have now been able to replicate the salon quality hair routine at home with four essential products. This is for any girl who has thick, wavy, coarse, or even any type of hair!
When you get out of the shower and lightly towel dry your hair, apply Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum starting from your roots to your tips. Since I have have a lot of hair, I use 4-5 pumps. This serum helps reduce the blow drying time and leaves your hair feeling soft.
While you're blow drying, use a Black Velvet Tunnel Vent Brush from ULTA. It's less than $10 and a great brush. The construction of the brush lets air flow through and leaves your hair softer. The ball tips massage your scalp too!
When you finish blow drying either all or most of your hair (if I'm in a rush, I only dry the top few layers), part your hair into pieces and use the flat iron to straighten it. I use the Chi hot iron. It's pricey but sooo worth it.
Once I'm all done with the flat iron, I spray another Paul Mitchel product called The Shine on my brush and then brush it through my hair. By spritzing your brush first, you prevent it from caking or going on too thick on your hair. It allows you to control the application and give you head another nice little massage in the meantime.
This may seem like a lot of steps, but I get my hair done in under 30 minutes! These are all salon quality products that you can use in your own home and find in most stores.
Posted by Hilary on November 7, 2008
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Straight and to the point
Growing up in California I always found myself asking Santa for a white Christmas. But every year he would disappoint. This year I decided to take matters into my own hands.
I found my white Christmas in the form of the new CHI Limited Edition Holiday White Dazzle Collection. The CHI popular ceramic flat-iron is now available in white patent. And as if that wasn't fun enough, the styling tool comes complete with matching travel case and limited-edition white "CHI you under the mistletoe" nail polish and bottle of top coat. Now I just look at that fluffy white stuff as something that would mess up my perfect hair.
Posted by Lisa on December 23, 2008
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