Spiced Honey

Checking In!

2012-01-08T19:08:00.001-05:00

Where are my manners: Happy New Year! I was on Twitter this evening saying how I really feel bad about how I've abandoned this blog. In all honesty though, I really just ran out of things to say! How much more could I actually say about curls, natural hair and just HAIR in general? I had grown bored with the topic - time became an issue as well though. I'm in a totally different place than I was one year ago today. I'm a new wife with a new career and new responsibilities. However, I've been truly blessed and am thankful everyday.
I'm saying all of this to say that, HBS isn't over! I'm planning a comeback as I write this though I'm just not sure in which capacity yet....

Stay tuned and thanks for all of your support!!

An Awesome Twist-Out: LoveIslandBeauty

2011-06-29T13:59:00.000-04:00

I just recently found out about LoveIslandBeauty (on YouTube) from my sister, who is in the process of learning how to do her short, natural hair. At times she gets frustrated because she doesn't quite know how to style her hair and being that she's all the way in Ohio, I'm not able to get my hands on her head (which I'm anxious to do - her curls are much tighter than mine, probably a 4a). However, I came across this video and just LOVED the way LoveIslandBeauty's hair came out and thought I'd share with you all.

You can check out more of her videos on Youtube here: http://www.youtube.com/user/LoveIslandBeauty

Basketball Wives and those EARRINGS!

2011-06-28T11:00:00.000-04:00

Every time I watch this show I get caught up being mesmerized by those super-huge earrings that each girl wears. I'm infatuated!! I am a HUGE lover of over-sized earrings. Evelyn had on a pair of gold hoops last night that I just absolutely adored.

I found some of their styles on Dulce's site (Click here), the prices generally range from $27.50 to $100.

Texturizer?

2011-06-27T22:26:00.000-04:00

I'm trying to find the best (and safest) solution to managing a STRAIGHT hairstyle in hot, sticky, humid weather. Some have suggested texturizing my hair but I'm not sure how I feel about that (seems to be too much like a relaxer)... But what do you gals think? Have you ever (or do you currently) used a texturizer?

Tell me about it!

Where to Begin?

2011-06-24T15:06:00.000-04:00

I was just in my favorite beauty supply store about an hour ago and realized:
#1 I miss my blog and...
#2 I'm SO out of the loop - Where did all of these new products spring up from?!

However, In my quest to get my hair long again, I've done little with my hair. My busy schedule (5am mornings where I don't get home until after 9pm) has stifled my normal hair routine. The good news is that I've successfully fulfilled my student teaching requirements and will soon be finished with my coursework in mid-August. Amazing how fast time flies.

During this time, I've been wearing cornrows, faux ponytails, twist outs and slicked-back ponytails. I've also been consistently taking Biotin pills (5000mcg) for the past 2 months or so. I rarely use shampoo anymore and have been using Aussie's Moist Conditioner as a co-wash. I still LOVE Shea Moisture's Deep Treatment Masque (which I use as a leave-in for my twist outs).

Cornrows

Faux Ponytail (w/ hair from Lugo's Hair Center)

Any hairstyle I could find with the LEAST amount of maintenance is what helped me get through those rough times...

Shea Moisture's Deep Treatment Masque

2011-03-10T21:23:00.000-05:00

I know I'm really late with this discovery but I need to say that I just LOVE this stuff!!! I plan on stocking up the next time I'm in Target. I took a chance when I tossed it in my basket about a month ago and since that day, I've never looked back - ESPECIALLY once I began using it as a leave-in with my twist-outs.

Yes - Twist outs! I'm in the process of "summerizing" my hair. When I cut my hair back in December I started wearing it straight... A LOT. Blow drying and flat ironing, at least every week or so. This was the main reason why I decided to try the Shea Moisture Deep Treatment Masque. I was deep treating my hair every time I washed it since I was frequently blow drying and flat ironing. However, all that has stopped and now I am trying "train" and tame those pieces that have become harder to curl (due to the excessive heat damage) - the back/bottom of my hair has straight ends.

I've been washing with Cantu's Moisturizing Shampoo and conditioning and styling my hair with the Masque. I Love LOVE LOVE this product. It is my main product staple right now. With my hectic schedule it definitely helps.

My twists are usually done in small 1" sections. This allows my curls to look more like my natural pattern:

(Please excuse the school bathroom pics!)

I have to say I'm missing my long hair these days...

What have you been up to?

Happy New Year!

2011-01-07T15:57:00.000-05:00

I must admit that I'm embarrassed to see that my last post was dated "November 17"! I hope you all had a wonderful holiday season and most importantly - Happy New Year!! I celebrated the holidays in St. Lucia while on the hunt for a wedding venue. I start school again next Monday. I'm a little nervous about starting because my schedule will be busier than last semester PLUS I have a wedding to plan for. The good thing is that I purchased the cheapest elliptical machine I could find at Walmart.com (click here) since I won't have time to hit the gym and Lord knows I need to tighten things up for this wedding in September. I also purchased a Shake Weight ;-)

On another note, I admit that I haven't been paying the BEST attention to my hair. While in St. Lucia I depended heavily upon Aussie's Moist Conditioner as my main styling tool. A little went a long way and was really a life-saver. I'm not totally in love with the length of my curls when I wear it naturally but I know it'll grow out soon.

Now I know this looks like a straw set, but it really isn't! After washing my hair,

I applied about a silver-dollar sized amount of Aussie's Moist Conditioner to my palm and

smoothed throughout my hair. I then brushed it through using my Denman brush. After,

I used my fingers to section and twirl around my finger. After air drying, I separated and fluffed

each curl individually.

How was your holiday season? I miss you ladies!

What's Working NOW: Cantu & Hair Mayo

2010-11-17T09:00:00.002-05:00

When my hair took a sudden turn for the worst, I first resorted to using Elasta QP's DPR-11. I don't know if you've noticed but the packaging is different and the formula has been "improved". I don't like it. The new formula didn't work for me. After going through 2 tubs of it I decided to go back to one of my old favs: Hair Mayo.

The brand I picked up was LustraSilk and it's an Olive Oil Hair Mayonnaise (about $3.99 from the beauty supply store). It has a pleasant scent and has given my hair life again. I use it weekly as an intensive deep treatment and its worked heavenly wonders on my mane.

For shampoo, I've been using Cantu Moisturizing Cream Shampoo. This is my first time trying any of the Cantu products and I LOVE this shampoo. After rinsing, my hair is soft and smooth. Prior to trying this shampoo I had been using Organix Cocoa Butter Shampoo. I loved the sweet buttery scent but the shampoo did nothing for me and left my strands hard and rough.

When Great Hair HURTS

2010-11-16T09:00:00.001-05:00

I wore this look for one weekend last month to my alma mater's homecoming. The look was achieved using my old-school deep wave iron (I have a ceramic deep wave iron but it doesn't get hot enough to create strong waves). I packed up my iron and brought it with me. Bad idea because I used it a LOT (along with a holding spritz O_o).

I loved the fullness of the waves with this hairstyle, but my ends were very shabby. So shabby that the iron couldn't even form a wave on the ends (without me repeatedly clamping down on them <-- really bad). This was when I first realized I needed to have my ends trimmed. So I had my ends trimmed. Apparently it wasn't enough though because I realized my ends were STILL shabby. After donning plenty of buns and ponytails, I complained to my friends. They suggested I keep wearing the buns and ponytails until my hair gets healthy again. I determined that I needed to chop it off and that's what I did.

I love my deep wave iron though and I realize it can only come out from time to time. I've researched ways to get that same look without using an iron and I came across Ryler Stylers (similar to rollers).

Have you tried these before?

Checking in!!

2010-11-15T09:00:00.001-05:00

Hi guys!!! I've missed HBS soooo much - So much to talk about! I've been in a serious HATE relationship with the mess on my head called hair since I last wrote. It's gone through so many changes and so much abuse on my part (lots of heat has been used - deep wave iron, flat iron, curling iron, hair dryer --> you name it). I rarely wear my natural curls these days because of my hectic schedule (getting up at 5am is no joke!). Here's a quick run-down of some of the hairthings I've done:

Most of the time, I've worn buns and ponytails. After I dyed my hair back to black in August, it began to fade and I noticed my texture changed slightly. My hair was lackluster (no shine whatsoever), frizzy and very dry when worn naturally, and lifeless whenever I did a roller set. About a month ago, I did a rinse (which did absolutely nothing but "rinse" itself out).

During this time of frustration, I bought a pack of hair and made hair clips. I've only worn them out once.

My "homemade" hair clips

Just recently, I decided I was fed up. I refuse to try another rinse or dye it black again and you all know me, I CAN'T wear buns and ponytails everyday - I just can't. I NEED versatility. Sooooo I went for the gusto and cut my hair. I must say I absolutely LOVE it! It's much easier for me to manage at this length (however, I've been flat ironing a lot - but I deep condition every week now ;-)

I haven't worn my hair curly with this new haircut, though I'm anxious to see what that's going to look like (I'll keep you posted). I'll have to experiment with that on a weekend.

Be back soon!

2010-09-27T14:15:00.001-04:00

Okay things just got really REAL with school. For those who may not know, I am taking an intensive graduate course for Childhood Education which grants degrees in a year's time. I've been buried underneath textbooks and study guides in preparation for the three standardized tests necessary to become a certified teacher in the state of New York. It's like a graduate school boot camp.

Soooo for now I'll need to concentrate on my studies. I'll be update the site when possible so please do check in from time to time :-)

Love you guys much!

(In the meantime, you can always follow me on Twitter, @honeybrownsugar!!)

Re-Post: Roller Setting

2010-09-22T09:00:00.000-04:00

Several of you asked about my roller setting routine. I don't have a video tutorial but the following is something I wrote up last November which provides a little more detail:

Basic & Simple Roller Set

I mentioned back in August that I wouldn't be straightening my hair for a very long time, and I meant it. Caring for my natural hair, is a lot of work. If you've got textured tresses than you know the work we must put in. With that said, in an effort to achieve easy, carefree hair I decided to a simple roller set.

Steps I followed:

Washed and deep conditioned hair.
Used Mizani's Thermastrength Style Serum prior to setting
After drying hair (underneath a bonnet hair dryer) and removing rollers, I used a small bit of Carol's Daughter Healthy Hair Butter to tame flyaways and maintain sheen.
Because the initial result yields fluffy and bouncy curls, I clip my hair up into a loose bun at the top of my head (for about 2 hours, or overnight) to help elongate curls (thus creating waves).
Afterwards, shake, use fingers to define curl pattern (if necessary) and go!

*NOTE: Let me just say I SUCK at roller setting. Because I'm a perfectionist, my sets MUST be nothing less than salon quality when done. I have the professional rollers, the clips, the net PLUS ear covers for when I sit underneath the dryer. Because of all the above, it takes me about an hour to set my hair on rollers. I have to keep a spray bottle nearby because by the time I'm done, my hair is about 95% dry :-(
However, the end results yielded BIG fluffy waves. Usually I'd take my flat iron and go over the roots, but I didn't want flat hair. I love the volume.

*UPDATE: I've gotten much better at my roller sets! Practice really makes perfect :-)

Just fyi- I can usually get a good 7 days out of this style (first 3 - 4 days down, remaining 2 or 3 days are ponytail/bun days)

Do you roller set your hair?

New Method: Texture Play

2010-09-20T09:00:00.000-04:00

With my new hectic schedule, I'm about thisclose to flat ironing my hair. I want to keep my curls going but it's just SOOO time consuming! I have do my hair at the very least, every other day even with this new method I'm about to introduce to you guys. It also depends on the weather how long a style will last. If you're in NYC then you know we've had some weird weather lately. Some days are dry and crisp, while others are cool, rainy and humid!

Anyways, this is my *NEW* routine (The idea here is to play up the natural texture of your hair with very little manipulation):

I squeeze a quarter-sized amount of Aveda's Be Curly (I'm not working now so I'm extremely frugal with everything!) into my palm and rub my hands together. Then I apply all over from the front through to the ends thoroughly.

I part using using a rattail comb and then use my Denman brush and brush my hair out. This helps in forming the wavy texture. Afterwards, I use metal clips at the ends of my hair to help prevent shrinkage.

The below pic was taken after the hair had dried

Once the hair has dried I remove the clips at the bottom (I usually dry underneath my bonnet dryer). I then used a little of Sexy Hair's Soy Renewal with Argan Oil (I haven't seen this in any stores but you can definitely get it online - Love, love, LOVE it!) and then using the rattail comb I went through (starting at the bottom) separating and lifting (*Using the tail end make a part starting at the nape going across from ear to ear. Repeat about a half an inch above the first part and continue parting until you reach the top of your head). This causes the hair to "open up", which then creates plenty of volume.

When the hair opens up, the wavy definition sort of fades slightly. To help maintain it, I use a little of Garnier Fructis on the ends, grabbing and twisting the ends of my hair with the paste.

This is a matte textured paste that will help sculpt and form your curls into place. I've used it twice and so far I love it.

After I've gone through every section, twisting and sculpting and toss my head upside down and use my hands to fluff at the roots... That's it!

When and if I ever have the time I'll have to do a video tutorial of this method!

Wash & Set Contents

2010-09-13T09:00:00.000-04:00

Now that the weather is much cooler here in the Big Apple, I've been wearing my hair in big, loose curls - courtesy of the roller set. I get much more wear out of a roller set. If I'm lucky, I can get up two weeks out of it, before having to wash and set again. With me being in school and all, this is what is going to help get me through. I love the au naturale curls, but that wash and go is VERY high maintenance - You can say what you want! ...It's not easy to keep up with, at all.

My Wash & Set Necessities...

Prior to roller setting, I'll use about a nickel-sized amount and massage into hair.

Infusium 23 has undergone a MAJOR face-lift! I haven't tried any of the new leave-ins but next time I'm in the beauty supply store I'll be picking up the Moisture Replenisher. I use this in a spray bottle with some water added (less product, more water). I spritz while setting to keep the hair soaked (makes for much easier setting).

This is the Gold'N Hot Bonnet Dryer I have - I've had it for a long time, but I think it was about $32 and can be found in most beauty supply stores. I love it.

After sitting under my dryer for about an hour and fifteen minutes, I remove the rollers. I use a dime-size amount of this rich cream - concentrating mostly on the ends and slightly on the roots. I'm not crazy about the scent but I love how effective it is. I'm left with soft, SHINY, and touchable hair.

It takes me about 3 hours from start to finish... But as I mentioned above, I'm good for about 2 weeks afterward!

Forever In Our Hearts....

2010-09-11T13:34:00.000-04:00

Let us never forget all that we love and lost on this day ten years ago...

Someone just like you and me, got out of their bed on September 11, 2001, got dressed, probably disliked their job, but hey, like most of us - it paid the bills. That person got on the train, read the paper, or listened to music on a crowded subway train with a thousand other irritable New Yorkers. The daily routine.

That person never made it home that day though.

Let us never ever forget what happened on September 11, 2001.

Free Your Mane

2010-09-10T12:09:00.000-04:00

I'm finally getting around to cleaning out my inbox! So to those of you who've written me in the past few weeks, check your email ;-)

I came across another new brand of natural hair care, Free Your Mane. It looks interesting, the packaging kind of reminds me of Hair Rules though. My head is beginning to whirl with the amount of new natural hair care brands out there! Something really has to stand out for me to want to spend the $$$ to make those purchases ... Especially since I'm not working right now.

And even then, I'm not sure if it's worth it... What do you guys think?

Love it or Leave it? Amerie

2010-09-07T14:00:00.001-04:00

I found this pic over on Necole Bitchie... What do you guys think? I'm not crazy about this new look, it doesn't even look like her IMO.

Essentious Natural Hair Care - The Review

2010-09-07T09:00:00.001-04:00

While packing for Barbados, I grabbed the Exonerate Shampoo and Hydrate Conditioner along with the Shine Daily Moisturizer. I figured that would be a great time for me to test out the line since I hadn't done so yet. So, let's take a closer look at what's inside each bottle (first 5 ingredients in order they appear):

Essentious Exonerate Shampoo (Shampoo and Conditioner sold together for $25):
- Aqua (Water): Okay, average hair care products contain about 50% to 90% water
- Decyl Glucoside: Okay, gentle cleanser
- Cocamidopropyl Betaine: Okay, gentle cleanser that may be too mild to wash away any styling products by itself. This is very often the main cleansing ingredient in baby shampoos. Often used to increase the suds in a product, though it is a mild foamer. Also used for its cleansing properties and its ability to increase the thickness of a product, as well as reduce the irritation from a harsher cleanser that may also be in the shampoo. Cocamidopropyl betaine is known to be practically nontoxic and nonirritating to the skin, which is what makes it great for reducing the irritation in harsher cleansers it's combined with. It also has some moisturizing properties.
- Phenoxyethanol: Okay, preservative believed to be less irritating than others. Can also be used as a fragrance. Phenoxyethanol is mild to the skin but can be hugely irritating to eyes—though it isn't found to be irritating in the tiny amounts normally used in products. Surprisingly, it also has some conditioning and emollient properties.
- Jojoba Oil: Good, Jojoba oil is actually a liquid wax, not an oil. It's taken from the bean-like seeds of a shrub native to deserts in the Western US. It's used as an emollient, and not known to be toxic or irritating.

**My thoughts: Wasn't too crazy about this shampoo though I LOVED the scent (fruity/floral). I don't know if it was the Bajan water but my hair was very hard and tangled very easily while shampooing. I couldn't run my fingers through my hair while washing. Very anxious to condition after the second wash...

Essentious Hydrate Conditioner:
- Organic Aloe Juice: Okay, since hair is dead, it can’t be repaired. Aloe has no effect on it. May act as a humectant, though.
- Cetearyl Alcohol: Good, used as an emollient, emulsifier, conditioner, and thickener. Not the same as SD alcohol or ethanol. This is actually a mixture of Cetyl Alcohol and Stearyl Alcohol
- Castor Seed Oil: Caution, oil from the bean of the castor plant Ricinus communis. Used as an emollient, conditioner, and for it's folkloric appeal. The oil is often removed from the beans by cold-pressing, solvents, or from hot water. Surprisingly, when the oil is removed by extraction, it's often darker in color, and may contain ricin, one of the most highly toxic proteins known. Ricin is found in the castor plant seeds. However, castor oil itself shouldn't contain any ricin. Castor oil is usually available as a colorless or pale, yellowish liquid with a particular odor. It forms a shiny, tough skin when dried. The toxin ricin should be left behind in the beans when the oil is removed. It's known to be soothing to the skin. (There could be some residual toxin from the bean left over in the oil. It seems the oil is safe to use as long as it's extracted properly)
- Stearalkonium Chloride: Okay, Clings to hair to make it feel thicker. Also used as an antistatic ingredient. Makes hair easier to comb and adds shine. Known to make wet-combing easier, as well as softens the hair
- Phenoxyethanol: (see above)

**My thoughts: Loved this conditioner! Very creamy, it's also very fragrant (smells sweet, kinda reminded me of a "red" Now & Later). The only thing that sort of threw me for a loop was that on the bottle they suggest keeping the conditioner on your hair for 15 minutes. Now, I usually do but most conditioners suggest leaving on for 2-3 minutes. Just thought that was a little awkward. However, I rinsed my hair after about 5 minutes and it was very soft, manageable and smooth.

The Shine Daily Moisturizer also smells like candy, and the ingredients include Coconut, Jojoba and Grapeseed oils. (The complete set shown above sells for $45)

**My thoughts: The verdict is still out. I love the way it feels in my hands and I love the scent but I'm not sure how effective it is yet.

* Ingredient explanations courtesy of the Ingredient Dictionary on Tightlycurly.com
* Products provided by Essentious

"Jump & Wave" Day!

2010-09-06T09:00:00.001-04:00

It's that time of year again: The West Indian Day Parade on Eastern Parkway! My fiance is Lucian and Bajan so we'll be on the parkway (he never misses it)... I can't forget about my family members who are from Bermuda either!

I look forward to the food most of all, especially the Mango Chow (if you don't know what that is, you've got to look it up!)

Sa ka fete!

Back from Barbados :-)

2010-09-03T09:00:00.001-04:00

So much has happened within the past 2 weeks. I'm STILL catching up to myself but let me catch you all up on what has been going on with me. I lost my job (again! I was laid off in May '09) BUT was able to turn that negative into a positive. I'll be heading back to school full-time starting next Wednesday for my Master's in Childhood Education - Yes, I want to be an elementary school teacher.

For the past few years, I've been working in the fashion//beauty industry and have never, ever felt fulfilled. I know I had a job to do but had a hard time taking it seriously because we weren't doing anything to literally save the world. People were cranky, irritable, sleepless and stressed out over capri pants and hair oil! We weren't finding a cure for AIDS or even rescuing animals! Now, I know teaching isn't easy but at least I'll be making a difference in the process. That's all that matters.

I'm also fresh off my birthday trip to Barbados where I also (stop the presses) got ENGAGED! I was so caught off guard and surprised. I have never been so happy in my life, I wish I could go back and re-live the moment my fiance (love saying that word now!) proposed. It was truly a magical moment :-)

I've got a lot ahead of me - School and a wedding. I'll be finishing school first and then planning a wedding for August of 2012. I say all this to say that I'm not sure how much of HBS I'll be able to keep up while I'm in school but I'll be doing the best that I can.

Most importantly though, I'm happy :-)

Huetiful Hair Steamer Winner!

2010-08-30T09:00:00.002-04:00

Congrats to Annette Jones (WPBMommy1)!! Please send your complete mailing address to wes@honeybrownsugar.com to get your Steamer!

Thanks again to all who participated!

My apologies!

2010-08-24T13:46:00.001-04:00

The past week has been positively life-changing. I'm in the middle of changing careers and going back to school- it's been quite hectic with registering for classes and what not. Then on top of all that I came down with a cold!
Soon as I get things under control (and in order!), I'll be back with some great new content... Please hold tight and bear with me for now :-)

Back to Black

2010-08-17T09:00:00.001-04:00

Last Friday, I went to Duane Reade and picked up a box of L'Oreal Feria in Soft Black. I was supposed to see the stylist at Aveda for a touch up of my color the Friday before last but he was out sick. Once I found I'd have to reschedule my appointment, I knew that there was no way I was going to be able to hold onto that "hair money". With the changing of the seasons, I was going to go back to black by October anyways. So, I just rushed the process.

After coloring, I deep conditioned and then (for the first time in many months) did a roller set.

I forgot how much I love my dark hair. Kim K. better move over :-P

French-braid'd Up

2010-08-12T10:14:00.001-04:00

I posted this last year (7/23/09 to be exact) and a year later, here I am again with braids. I reached a point this week where I was tired of doing hair and needed a break for a few days. I did this on Monday and plan to take it out tomorrow evening.

See below (I used less products this time around).

Here's how I did it this time:

I washed and conditioned, using Elasta QP's DPR-11.
With soaking wet hair, I did a part down the middle of my head. I always do the middle part first, this helps keep the other parts even.
I secured the right half with a clip and then created a part for the smallest cornrow above my ear on the left.
Using a spray bottle with water, I spritzed each section (as I was braiding) to keep it soaking wet.
Prior to braiding, I used my favorite Eco-Styler gel on my edges and along the hair near the part (not on the scalp) to keep the fuzzies at bay.
Sectioned next area, parted and repeated.
Once completed, I wrapped with my silk scarf and kept it moving!

*Once all of the rows were done, I gathered all of the braids and braided into one big braid secure with a small black hair band. I then tucked under.

PS- The next day I did a simple upkeep using Mizani's Gloss Veil Shine Spray (LOVE this stuff) and went off to conquer the world ;-)

Huetiful Hair Steamer and Giveaway

2010-08-11T09:00:00.024-04:00

I'm going to be 100% honest and upfront: I don't like to deep condition my hair. Well, let me be more specific: I don't like taking the time to deep condition my hair. I very rarely deep treat my strands and it's shameful (I know)! The most I'll do is cover my head with a plastic cap inside the shower and let the conditioner "marinate" while I shave or something. That's it. That's my definition of a deep condition.

So, when I was asked if I wanted to try the new Huetiful Hair Steamer, I immediately jumped at the opportunity. I've been hearing a lot about hair steamers and was anxious to try one. Then it arrived and, well, the box sat in the corner for a week. Then I opened the box, and it sat on a shelf in my closet for another few days. Everyday I'd say, okay I'll give it a go today.

"Today" never came.

But here's the good part - I have ONE steamer to give away! The Huetiful Hair Steamer is uniquely designed for curly and wavy hair, restoring moisture 5x better than deep conditioners alone, opening up the cuticles of your hair to allow any conditioner you choose to penetrate better and work more effectively. Here are the facts:

Hydrates hair 5x more effectively than conditioners alone
Helps reduce breakage and split ends caused by dry hair
Reduces risk of dandruff by improving scalp health
Improves natural, transitioning, or relaxed hair health
Lightweight and convenient; easily stores and can be set up in under 2 minutes

To enter to win, all you've got to do is either follow Huetiful on Twitter (@Huetiful) and/or like their fan page on Facebook (click here !), make sure you mention "HBS sent me!"PS - In your tweet use trending topic: #HBSandHuetiful

One winner will be selected and contacted on 8/30/10.

Good luck! (and I promise my review on the Huetiful Hair Steamer will be up before the winner's name is announced - You have my word!)

Tuesday's Trouble: Twisting the Truth?

2010-08-10T09:38:00.000-04:00

It's that time of the week again! Let's see how we can help a honey out...

Dear HBS,

I went to law school, and unfortunately, I failed out in between my 2nd and 3rd year. I did graduate with a Masters degree, and I do have a legal job at a law firm. I am not a practicing attorney though. I have struggled a lot the past two years trying to figure out what to do with myself, and if I want to continue my education. My mother, has pretty much lied to my entire extended family about me being a lawyer, which makes it so much worse. She boasts to everyone that I'm an attorney! Every family gathering we have, someone asks me about being a lawyer, or if I can help them with something, and I have to tell them that I am not a lawyer. I hate that I basically have to call my mom a liar, and I don't know how to make her stop. I'm not ashamed of myself or the person I've become. I don't know why my mother is? I wish I had finished school and started my career the way I had imagined, but things happen. How do I confront my mother and get her to stop lying? How do I deal with all the questions from my family without making my mother look bad?

How would you handle this?

Best,

L.J.

Friday's Dessert: 8/6/10

2010-08-06T12:29:00.001-04:00

I don't know about you, but this week has been long and very strenuous! I went back to the gym (after a 3 month long hiatus... So ashamed!) and it actually felt great being back. Took my mind off a few things...

I thought this quote would be great to post (thanks to Miss Jia via Twitter!):

"...but stress don't you let it, don't you forget it, Don't you forget it. Trust you'll find your way, love. Hope is what your heart is made of..."
- Glenn Lewis (Remember him?!)

Have a great weekend guys... We'll do it all over again next week :-P

Top 10 Flat Irons... According to Flat Iron Experts

2010-08-06T09:00:00.000-04:00

Autumn is almost here (unfortunately) and some of us curly girls transition to wearing our hair in straighter styles. If you're on the market for a new flat iron or hair dryer you might want to check out what the Flat Iron Experts have to say.

Get the scoop on what they say the best flat irons and the best hair dryers are...

And then let me know if you agree ;-)

Tuesday's Trouble: Wednesday's Edition!

2010-08-04T10:53:00.000-04:00

Hmm, the following is an interesting situation...

Dear HBS,

I've been on my job a little over year and while I don't quite love it, I have definitely gained a LOT of amazing experience and have even had the opportunity to travel overseas. I work in the fashion industry and it is very fast paced and cut-throat. The company I work for is a boutique firm and they are constantly hiring and firing. I work with an entirely different staff from when I first started.

But my concern is this: My supervisor (who is not my direct BOSS) recently told me (in confidential) that the company will be letting me go. He wasn't able to tell me much but he did say he didn't know when it would happen and that I should start getting my "stuff" together. I couldn't say that I was surprised, I actually felt relieved. But now I'm anxious.

How do you go to work everyday knowing that it could be your last? I don't want to quit because I won't be able to collect unemployment and I don't have any other jobs lined up. All I know is that I can't sit around waiting for them to get rid of me. For the last few days I've been coming to work with an "eff this" attitude, hoping that they'd want to let me go sooner than later.

In my head, I've already moved on - I want to go back to school full time in September. But now I have to wait for them to give me the axe.

What would you do in this situation?

Sincerely,
Ready 2 Go

Essentious Natural Hair Care

2010-08-03T11:19:00.000-04:00

I love to try new products - Especially the brands being marketed for natural hair. There's a TON of them these days that are geared towards curly, coiled and kinky hair. I love it. Essentious is a new line that has natural and organic ingredients dedicated to the care and upkeep of natural hair. SLS and paraben-free makes it right for me :-P

Summer Reading: Platinum by Aliya S. King

2010-07-30T15:37:00.000-04:00

I had the pleasure of attending Aliya's book release party last month, where I also got my hands on the book. I just cracked it open this week and let me say, I canNOT put it down. So far, this woman has amazed me with everything she does! I strive to follow in her footsteps. She really gives me hope. Aliya S. King simply does things they way they should be done. Period.

Whenever I go to any sort of event, I usually go by myself and several times I'll run into a familiar face. Some times I'll chat with others. Most times, I'll just observe. I take in everything around me because I always feel like this could all be ME one day.

I just need to finish writing MY novel. Success is right there, I can feel it. Taste it even.

Any-who, once you start reading Platinum, you're not going to be able to put it down (I can guarantee that). King puts you right there, inside the story. The characters are all well-developed and the situations are real.
I won't give away the plot, but it's based on Aliya's experience working with and writing about rapper's wives and their lives behind the camera. It gets deep ya'll. You'll have a new appreciation for your seemingly simple life once you're done with this novel.

P.S. - The sequel to Platinum is coming out August 11!! CAN'T WAIT!!

Have you read Platinum yet?

Karmin Salon Pro - Flat Iron Giveaway Winner

2010-07-28T12:02:00.003-04:00

And the winner is...

Camille Bolton

Thanks to all who participated! More fun to follow ;-)

My Sun Secret

2010-07-28T09:00:00.000-04:00

I will honestly say that I am one pale girl who doesn't mind getting dark. The darker the better! I love to tan and I LOVE to be tanned. In an effort to help keep my tan last as long as possible, I use L'Oreal's Sublime Bronze One Day Tinted Gel (for face and body - not a self tanner, washes off with soap and water) and the Luminous Bronzer (a self-tanning lotion for the body).

If you enjoy rocking a sun-kissed glow, you'll love L'Oreal's Sublime Bronze line. I don't use anything else. I've been using this line for about two summers now. Keep in mind I came back from the Dominican Republic over a month ago and I still have coworkers asking me "did you go to the beach this weekend?" or "Where did you get that tan from!"... Aside from basking in DR's hot summer sun, I use L'Oreal's Sublime Bronze collection to keep that glow going.

I use the tinted gel on my face and the self-tanning lotion on my arms and legs. Both retail for about $10.

Have you tried this line yet?

Q & A

2010-07-26T11:41:00.001-04:00

Hope you all had a marvelous weekend, mine was just superb! The following question was taken from the comment section of a past post.

Thought the question and answer would be helpful to everyone else...

Q: Hi Wes! Love your hair. When you were just starting your natural journey did you have the "Jheri Curl look"? If so, how did you change that? My last perm was 7/4/09 & I cut all my relaxed ends 5/28/10. So any styles or product recommendations would be great. Thanks

A: I know exactly what you're talking about. Prior to chopping all of my hair off (this was about 8 years ago), I had relaxed ends and wavy, textured roots. My ends would not curl for nothing! Back then, I used to use Wave Nouveau's Moisturizing Lotion (You couldn't tell me it wasn't the BOMB). I would do my hair early in the morning and then let it air dry on my way to work. After awhile I didn't like to go outside with my hair wet because it looked too much like a Jheri Curl (and the shrinkage wasn't helping). It's funny you said that because at the time, I thought I was the only one who had that issue.

To avoid that "Jheri Curl" look, I used to do braid outs. At the end of each braid (or you can do twists), I used a piece of a McDonald's straw (that had been cut into 3's). I pinned the straw in place using 2 large pins (Click here for the how-to guide: http://www.honeybrownsugar.com/2009/01/wavycoil-how-to-guide.html). After hair is completely dried, remove the straws gently and unravel the braids/twists.

For Wash & Go's, try using a thick styling cream (Such as Garnier Fructis Leave-in Cream, Aveda's Be Curly, OR try using the following conditioners as leave-in's: Pantene's Relaxed & Natural Conditioner, Aussie Moist).
(Click here to view the how-to vid for my normal "Wash & Go" routine: http://www.honeybrownsugar.com/2009/06/world-premiere-exclusive-hbs-wash-go.html)

Hope this helps!

Karmin Salon Pro - Flat Iron Giveaway

2010-07-24T00:00:00.001-04:00

Surprise! I told you guys I had something for ya :-P

Are you ready to give your curls a break?
One lucky reader will get this award-winning Karmin Salon Pro flat iron (1"). Sleek and fierce, the Karmin won Editor's Choice Award at AllReviews and it can be YOURS!!

If you missed out on the Twitter giveaway earlier this week, here's another chance to win. To enter, all you've got to do is send an email along with your mailing address to hbsbabe@ymail.com entitled "Straighten Me Out!"

Good luck!

Winner will be announced 7/28/10.

My Tracee Ellis Ross Hair

2010-07-23T09:00:00.001-04:00

A few days ago on Twitter I spoke about how I had finally achieved the Tracee Ellis Ross hair that I had been longing for, since Girlfriends first aired.

I haven't washed my hair since I had it done at Khamit Kinks on Monday and with the help of the humidity and heat, it swelled to twice it's size. The only thing I DID do differently was section off the ends and twirl around my finger to create more texture and depth. I LOVE IT.

I've figured out that you'll get more mileage out of a style that doesn't have defined curls. I like to call this "free-form hair". I plan on washing my hair again over the weekend, let's see if I can duplicate this look...

Steve Harvey Doesn't Like Our Hair...

2010-07-22T12:11:00.002-04:00

I could really care less if Steve Harvey likes my hair to be quite honest. BUT, yesterday someone brought to my attention a topic that was discussed on his morning show and I just had to share it with my girls! From what I understand, the conversation went as follows (Special thanks to the person who shared this with me!):

A lady called in to ask the guest stylist a hair related question. As part of her question she mentions she is natural and wears her hair twisted and untwisted for the crinkled look. She wanted to know how to keep her hair from breaking and how to keep it moisturized. The guest stylist then proceeds to give her a product recommendation (from the line he was representing, Soft Sheen).
Steve then throws in the following question: Do you have a man? The caller responds by saying "yes", he then goes on to ask, "how does he like your hair?", she then says , "he doesn't like the natural look".... Steve's response: "I knew it! YOU GONNA LOSE YO' MAN!" and then they cut to a commercial.

He obviously hasn't seen MOST of us! Textured hair is gorgeous (what cave is he living in?)!!

How do you feel about this? Have you ever had a man tell you he didn't "like" your natural hair?

Twitter Winner

2010-07-22T09:18:00.001-04:00

Big thanks to all who participated in HBS' very first Twitter giveaway. The lucky winner who gets the earrings (made by me!) is:

@CandiceSS

For those of you who aren't on Twitter, don't fret! There's much more fun to come (I've got you covered ;-)!!

Are You On?

2010-07-21T09:41:00.002-04:00

Twitter that is! Some of you know and some may not know, but I love to make earrings. Aside from my day job, managing this site and working on finishing up my novel, I pull out my "toolbox" and channel my creativity (its therapeutic!).

I've even created an account on Etsy but I'm not at a level where I feel comfortable selling them yet. For now though, all you have to do is follow me on Twitter and re-tweet one of my tweets to enter to win.
One lucky winner will be selected later on today.

Natural Curls & Caipirinhas at Khamit Kinks Salon

2010-07-20T09:52:00.001-04:00

If you follow me on Twitter than you already know what I was doing yesterday evening (@honeybrownsugar)! I found out about this event last minute - I wish I would've known sooner because I certainly would've told you guys about it. For $45, Khamit Kinks offered hair consultations, scalp massage, shampoo and conditioning treatments, twist out styles, back massages, caipirinhas AND a gift bag (which I missed out on!) filled with products from Anu Essentials, Curls, Jane Carter Solution, Hair Rules and Mizani True Textures.

This was DEFINITELY a treat... I think they should hold this event on a monthly basis if you ask me. I've never been to the salon but I know their prices are pretty steep (two strand twists without additional hair START at $100). The stylists are all great and really know what they're doing and you will get your money's worth, if you're willing to shell out that cash.

I was one of the first to arrive and since I was so early, we had to wait outside in the sweltering heat while they finished setting up. About 20 minutes later, we were ushered into the salon and checked in. While waiting in line for my consultation, I was treated to a delicious caipirinha and half of a chicken empanada. Back massages were being offered by the gentlemen of Just 1 Touch (I'm glad I waited till after my hair was done before I got my mine!) while the women were lining up for their time in the stylist's chair.

When it was my turn for a hair consultation with Anu Prestonia, president and founder of Khamit Kinks, I explained to her the style I've been trying to accomplish. Then I was assigned a stylist who would then wash and style my hair.

Here's the exact pic on the wall I pointed out to my stylist... I wanted BIG hair, with no frizz. A puzzle I hadn't been able to figure out on my own.

After washing my hair with Jane Carter Solution products, she then applied the Jane Carter Solution Condition & Sculpt, spritzed a little of the Leave-in Conditioner and then parted in the middle, combed my hair back, and two strand twisted into one low big twist. I then sat underneath the dryer for about 40 minutes (my hair dried really quickly thanks to the JC Condition & Sculpt).

After my hair was dried, the stylist used a rat tail comb to separate and lift the hair. She then took a blow dryer and gently blowed the roots with warm air (not too much air as this would cause frizz, which is what i did NOT want). She then applied a little oil as a finishing touch.

I was definitely pleased with the texture. My curls were soft, not too defined and not frizzy. At night, I piled my hair high on top of my head in a loose pony and then shook down in the morning. I used a little bit of water to remove any indentations. My hair had gotten BIGGER.

I'm going to try this again on my own once I get my paws on that JC Condition & Sculpt... I'll keep you posted!

Hair Battle Spectacular

2010-07-19T08:52:00.001-04:00

To start, I hope everyone's weekend was spectacular. I follow Natalie (from Bad Girls Club - Don't ask why :-P) on Twitter and she's been pumping this show for the past few months now. Finally, this morning on my way to work I saw an advertisement for it on the side of a bus. The show looks like this it's going to be a televised version of the hair battles we saw in Chris Rock's documentary, "Good Hair". Derek J. is actually one of the hosts.

I'm not sure how I feel about the show - as of yet. I understand its for TV but it looks a little too theatrical (overly done) and very unREAListic (being that it's supposed to be a "reality" show! Then again, what shows ARE really real these days? That's an entirely different topic). I'll give it a chance and watch an episode, at the very least it may be extremely entertaining.

It premieres August 10th at 10pm... Will you be watching?

Curly Hair Consultations? ...An idea

2010-07-15T11:58:00.000-04:00

Are you clueless when it comes to your curls?

I've been pondering this idea for a while now and thanks to a commenter by the name of "Laurie", I've decided to put it out there. Do you need help with your hair? If so, I'd like to help. Here's how:

(*Keep in mind, I'm not a professional but I'd love to share what I've learned thus far with as many curly girls as possible.)

For only $20, you'd get:

A full hair assessment to determine hair type (curl pattern, damaged vs. healthy, transitioning, etc.)
Best product recommendations (possibly free samples included)
Help in developing YOUR ideal hair routine
Maintenance & Up-keep: Help in getting the MOST out of your style (getting it to last longer than 2 days)
Before & After feature on HBS (faces can be blurred if preferred)

To start, I'd ask those who were interested to first send photos of their hair (front & back). Because I'm NOT a professional hair stylist by any means, I would only choose those who I am pretty certain that I'd be able to help - so don't fret!

I'm still brainstorming a lot of this in my head so ideas are all welcome. If this is a service that you're interested in and would be willing to pay for, please send an email to wes@honeybrownsugar.com.

Based on the amount of emails I get will help me to determine whether or not I'll move forward with this idea.

Thanks ladies!

Tuesday's Trouble:

2010-07-13T09:00:00.000-04:00

Haven't gotten one of these in a while! Take a look and don't be shy... A fellow curly girl needs our help!

Dear HBS,

I am a young curly girl working hard and I have a huge hair crisis. I'm in college from 9 am to 5 pm then I rush to a train to go to work from 6pm to 9pm. By the time I get home I am tired and I DO NOT want to wash my hair or style it. So, I only have time to wash my hair on the weekends. Now the problem is I've been natural for almost a year and my hair is pretty long but not long enough to get every single hair into a pony tail. So I'm in need of the perfect protective hair style for me, which is hard cause I'm very particular with my hair. I love having my hair out but for the next few week I need it up. The style i'm lookin for should be able to last a week or be done is 5 minutes, I am capable of doing myself and doesn't involve a head full of twist or braids.

THANK YOU!

Sincerely,

Busy Betty

_______________________________________________________

Here's my recommendation: The 5 Minute Bun! (Click here for instructions)

I usually do this style when I find myself in the same predicament as "Busy Betty". Those days when time just isn't on your side and the only thing you can think of getting in the bed. This style is quick, easy and to the point.

Aveda's Be Curly vs. Garnier's Sleek & Shine Leave-in Cream

2010-07-12T09:26:00.001-04:00

(Money Saving Tip!)

I love Aveda's Be Curly cream, but I don't really love the price. I've already gone through 2 tubes within the last 2.5 months. Depending on where you purchase it, you'll easily be shelling over somewhere between $18 and $23 dollars a tube. No bueno, especiallly if you're like me and do your hair at least twice a week.
I need to re-purchase right now as we speak, but I've been hesitant because of the price. So, what I've been doing in the meantime is using my Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Leave-in Cream (about $4.99) in conjunction with the Aveda Be Curly.

I use the Be Curly on the sections of my hair that need a little bit more help curling. The bottom section up to the crown of my head get the Garnier Fructis because this area has NO problem curling up. Therefore, I use the Be Curly on the crown and the front parts of my hair. This has been working out for me and I've been able to get prolonged use out of my last tube.

I know many of you wanted to try the Be Curly but didn't want to spend an arm and a leg to do so. Try mixing it up as I did and using it sparingly - You'll definitely get your money's worth out of it.

Friday's Dessert

2010-07-09T10:19:00.000-04:00

I can't wait to sleep in tomorrow morning! It's been a LONG week - Especially since I was out of town working all last weekend. I'm definitely looking forward to having some "me" time.

"You know you're in love when you can't fall asleep because reality is finally better than your dreams."
- Dr. Seuss

I love Dr. Seuss quotes and even though this one is a little Valentine's Day-ish I thought it was just too cute to bypass!

Have a great weekend guys!

A Disgruntled Commenter?

2010-07-08T12:13:00.001-04:00

Now you all know I'm not one to bring light to negativity. HOWEVER, the following anonymous comment (of course) pertains to my article regarding my experience in the Dominican Republic (click here). I respect everyone's opinion, but I'd like to hear what YOU guys have to say about to this....

"If you black american women acted like woman and not hard mean ass men, brothers wouldnt go to the DR just to get some sex. But yall dont want to hear to truth. Also the hotel workers are the real exploited ones earning small wages to "serve" you! Black woman need to soften up. But yall make good excuses for your harse behavior. You USE men to just give you babies but you dont really want a man LOL."

Thoughts, ladies?

(Seems like this dude needs to lay off the prostitutes and work on perfecting his grammar instead ;-)

High Humidity & Hair

2010-07-07T09:00:00.000-04:00

Prior to my trip to New Orleans, I asked you guys what should I do with my hair while I'm there. Yes, the weather was extremely humid. While it was hot, it wasn't unbearably hot. I left last Thursday morning, and did a wash & go on Wednesday night.

This pic was taken on Saturday morning. My hair held up really well considering I was out in the soggy weather most of the day. Because I'm running low on Aveda's Be Curly cream, I only used the cream on the front parts that may give me "curl" problems. For the majority of my head, I used the Garnier Sleek & Shine Leave-in Conditioning Cream.

On Friday night, I used the Eco-styler gel to touch up some of the frizzy parts in the crown, the back, and in the front. The gel helped tame the frizzies and flyaways; my hair looked like it had just been done (I let it dry completely before I went outside). At night, I piled it up in a ponytail on the very top of my head and went to sleep.

On Sunday morning, I decided to wash my hair. I could've still gotten another day out of it but it was starting to smell like "outside" if you know what I mean and I HATE that smell.

After washing, I made a middle part and donned two low pigtail braids. Simple mission accomplished!

The Essence Festival '10

2010-07-06T09:52:00.000-04:00

Hope everyone had a wonderful holiday weekend. I just got back from New Orleans yesterday afternoon, and man, am I glad to be back. Most of my time was spent working but I was still able to enjoy myself in the evenings (which thus caused me to get very few hours of sleep in at night!) - The "rockstar" life. It was definitely an experience though - One I will NEVER forget.

This right here was the highlight of my trip....

Me & Trey Songz: If I didn't get anything else out of this trip to NO, I would've been fine! It was a pleasure to meet him. Ladies, let me just tell you he is truly mesmerizing and very engaging. Extremely down to earth and flirtatious, lol.

Trey Songz & Chris Paul

This was the crowd for Mary J. Blige in the convention center... They came out in droves to meet the queen

Mary's ready to meet her fans

He's back! Myself and El Debarge: If you saw the BET Awards then you probably guessed it - The album drops 9/28!

Were you in New Orleans? If so, tell me about your experience! Did you have fun?

Friday's Dessert

2010-07-02T09:00:00.000-04:00

The LONG weekend has finally arrived. Now get out and enjoy it :-)

"Most winners are just ex-losers who got mad"
- Anonymous

Remember that! Have a safe holiday and make sure you get to see some fireworks :-)

Traction Alopecia: Naomi Campbell?

2010-07-01T09:00:00.001-04:00

I just some photos of the never-aging Naomi Campbell over at Concrete Loop and at first glance, I said "this chick is BAD, as usual!", but then as I began to scroll down I saw this...

And then...

It is being said that Naomi may be suffering from severe Traction Alopecia due to years and years of wearing weaves. TA (according to traction-alopecia.com) is "...a hair loss condition caused by damage to the dermal papilla and hair follicle by constant pulling or tension over a long period. It often occurs in persons who wears tight braids, especially "cornrows" that lead to high tension, pulling and breakage of hair."

I always say everything in moderation (this includes weaves and braids)! You MUST give your follicles a rest. I hope that Beyonce is somewhere taking notes ;-)

...No, seriously.

Getting it in Line: Invisalign

2010-06-29T09:00:00.001-04:00

My apologies for not posting yesterday, I wanted to talk about Chris Brown's performance at the BET awards but felt that the topic had been worn down on the web and decided against it. But I will say that I really felt his performance! He has my heart and I wish him nothing but the best.

Anyhow, moving on, some of you that know me personally know that I've been wearing Invisalign for the past two months (give or take). According to the website:

"...Invisalign treatment will consist of a series of aligners that you switch out about every two weeks. Each aligner is individually manufactured with exact calculations to gradually shift your teeth into place. And since your Invisalign system is custom-made for your teeth and your teeth only, with a plan devised by you and your dentist or orthodontist, you know you'll end up with a smile that truly fits..."

In case you're considering Invisalign, here is what I can tell you thus far:

It's a hassle!! Every time I eat I have to remove the trays and then brush my teeth (once I'm done eating). This makes BBQ's, street fairs, and any other "on-the-go" event difficult. Most times, I'll just rinse my mouth out really well with water, place the trays back in and then brush at my earliest convenience.
It really doesn't hurt. At the beginning of every new cycle, the trays do feel tighter and there is some pressure but it does NOT hurt. If there is some discomfort, I'll simply pop 2 Advil's and keep it moving.
Drinking anything besides water is not recommended (while trays are in). Sometimes I do cheat but I'm very careful not to allow the liquid to get into the trays. If it does happen, I'll simply rinse with water.
Your dentist or orthodontist will bond some of your teeth (little square tooth-colored "bumps" on the front of the tooth) in order to keep the trays in place (and effective). This takes some getting used to, but it's no big deal.

I'm supposed to done around Thanksgiving '10 and I can't wait to be able to eat without the hassle again! (Don't take eating for granted!)

Essence Music Festival, Anyone?

2010-06-28T23:42:00.000-04:00

I'm headed to the Essence Music Festival in New Orleans this Thursday (it'll be my first time). What should I expect? What kind of clothes should I pack? And most importantly, what should I do with my hair?! I've heard that the weather is extremely HOT and VERY humid. My hair doesn't usually function well in that kind of environment.

Any one from New Orleans here? I need your help :-)

Friday's Dessert 6/25

2010-06-25T09:00:00.000-04:00

My coworker said to me that this week went by quick, I don't think so. I'm glad it's finally Friday!

"Those who don't take chances don't make advances. Even a turtle doesn't get ahead unless he sticks his neck out."
- Anonymous

Lord have mercy, that's the God honest truth! I need to finish this novel I'm writing. It's so tough because by the time I get home from work and finish getting ready for the next day, I'm beat. This needs to get done though (and soon!).

If you've got goals for yourself, don't fall behind! We MUST keep up with them.

Have a great weekend chicas!

Love it or Leave it? Solange

2010-06-24T23:09:00.000-04:00

Solange recently wore this afro wig to a recent soiree here in the Big Apple. It looks real! But what do you guys think about it? Hot or not?

Pantene Beauty Breakfast & the Big Sulfate Question

2010-06-24T09:00:00.001-04:00

I must give many thanks to Pantene for putting together such a magnificent event! It was nice being able to deviate from my normal morning routine and mingling with my fellow "sisters-in-writing". A car service was arranged to take each and every one of us to and from the breakfast (a very nice touch).

Once every woman had arrived (about 20 of us in total), the preview began. A brief history on the Pantene brand was shown on the large flat screen. Afterwards, the small, intimate crowd participated in a question and answer segment with Dr. Jeni Thomas (Pantene senior scientist) and Tippi Shorter (Alicia Keys' stylist).

Prior to attending the event, everyone was sent a box full of the new product line (geared towards our specified hair type). I received the Curly Hair Series, a line devoted to creating touchable curls with endless shine. Upon opening the box, I was extremely excited! Sooo many products (The product junkie in me went haywire!) to choose from. But then I looked at the ingredient listings. The shampoo contained not only sulfates but TWO types of sulfates (sodium laureth and sodium lauryl).

Now, as I've mentioned before, I'm not a stickler for product ingredients but there are several things I tend to avoid, sulfates being one of them. I swear that ever since I stopped using sulfate-laden shampoos, my hair has been less frizzy, the curls have been more defined and looks amazing when wet.

I proceeded to ask Dr. Thomas why sulfates were indeed used. The answer? The milder sulfates used react differently when combined with other ingredients. Also: This product has been tested extensively on various hair types and the final product is what has been proven to work well on most curly hair types.

I will say that the Dry to Moisturized Shampoo/Conditioner did dry my hair out but I loved the Deep Moisturizing Treatment (in the square jar). The +conditioning ampoules are also said to be great for traveling (I don't know about you guys, but my hair gets extremely dry in sunny/sandy climates).

Nevertheless, it was a great morning and I honestly haven't tried half of these products yet. You already know that if one (or two) of them become my *new* favorite product you'll certainly know about it ;-)

Pantene Breakfast Launch

2010-06-22T09:37:00.000-04:00

Hi darlings! I'm currently at a Pantene breakfast and styler launch with celebrity stylist Tippi Shorter (Alicia Keys stylist) along with several great bloggers: Joi from Beauty Blvd, Brown Girl Gumbo and Tia Williams (Shake Your Beauty) is here too!

I had the opportunity to check out the new Curly Series line beforehand and *gasp* they use TWO types of sulfates in their shampoo. I just had to ask why! (I'll give you answer later ;-)

For now though, follow along on twitter (honeybrownsugar) for real-time coverage. If you have any questions you'd like to have answered tweet me!

My Trip to DR: What They Didn't Tell Me

2010-06-18T09:00:00.001-04:00

"Why did you come here? There's only one thing that's happening right here, right now..." - Random guy on the street

Last Thursday, four friends and I boarded a Jet Blue flight bound for the Dominican Republic. It was a beautiful, sunny day in NYC and we couldn't wait to lay out on a hot, sandy beach in DR. Excited we were; our last trip together was in 2007 to Montego Bay, Jamaica.
Upon landing, we gathered our bags, caught our hotel shuttle and headed towards the resort. I love island life and no matter what island I'm on, I always feel like I'm home. As we breezed through the local streets, passing numerous mopeds (some carrying up to FOUR people at a time), I relaxed and took in my new surroundings. The tropical breeze, sun, sand and shanty towns put me at ease, while at the same time easing my mind of all of the modern world's stresses.

Playa Grande

During our second night in Puerto Plata, we decided to check out downtown Sosua for the bar/club scene. We dressed our best and had the hotel schedule a cab to pick us up. Ten minutes later we were on the strip. At first glance, everything appeared normal. Yes, I'd read the article in Essence on prostitution in DR and a guy sitting next to me on the plane gave me even more information. So, I was kind of expecting it.

Sitting at the bar at the club in downtown Sosua that night, I first noticed a young, Caucasian man sipping a beer along with a friend. A young woman came up to him, rubbed his back, whispered in his ear and stayed by his side for a while. The young man looked nervous and turned down the woman's advances. After about 10 minutes, the woman left. By this time my friends and I decided to sit near the street so that we could really see what was going on. Jerks of all body types and races were flaunting and flirting with young Dominican and Haitian women... Everywhere. Among the prostitutes were teenaged boys, she-males, a midget, and let me not forget to mention the stark naked woman wandering the streets with her pimp following behind her in close range.

This is the bar where we sat and observed the scenery

While taking in the scene, a random guy from New York approached us and said he knew we weren't "hoes". He asked us why did we decide to come to Puerto Plata, and then proceeded to say that "...there is only one thing that's happening out here right now and that's hoeing..." Surprisingly though, no one bothered us. The girls were so aggressive that there's no way to mistake a prostitute from a non-prostitute.

Directly across the street from where we sat, we saw it all

Don't get me wrong, during the day we had a blast. We visited two beaches (Caleton and Playa Grande, which was gorgeous!!), the Blue Lagoon, and a plantation. We also went to a Vegas type show at Ocean World for dinner and dancing. The people and the island are beautiful but the nasty, disgusting men (both young and old) who are visiting for all the wrong reasons are polluting the place. I wish I hadn't seen what I saw but unfortunately it's a reality and a way of life. Looking in the faces of the beautiful young girls I could easily see that many felt ashamed and were disgraced. Hanging their heads and dejectedly following their johns, they hopped into unknown cars and disappeared into the balmy Dominican night. In my mind I kept yelling "YOU DON'T HAVE TO DO THIS!", "DON'T GO WITH HIM" and "THIS ISN'T THE ONLY WAY!" Unfortunately though, for them it is.

All around our resort were men (many European) old enough to be someone's grandfather, while the girl they flaunted for the week looked to be barely out of high school. Both of our flights (going and coming) were 90% black men, some with friends and some without. It was nauseating to say the least. Upon arrival back in the states, most of them were probably headed home to kiss their wives or girlfriends.

Nevertheless, on Monday afternoon I boarded a plane with my four friends and went home. The gorgeous young bronze-skinned woman in the black sequined top doesn't get to escape that reality. Her reality.

If you'd like to be a part of the Dominican Republic's cause against sex tourism, please check out the Movement for International Self Development and Solidarity (MAIS) by clicking here.

Vacation Hair

2010-06-17T09:00:00.002-04:00

Whenever it's hot, humid and sticky, I NEVER know what to do with my hair- ESPECIALLY when I'm on vacation. Time is not something I like spending on my hair whenever I'm away (I'm sure you can relate!). I don't like to leave it out because it shrinks up and looks like a hat on my head (in my opinion). During this last trip to the Dominican Republic, I mostly wore it in a ponytail.

During one of our night's on the town, I simply washed my hair in the shower, used my Ecostyler gel (You know I had to bring that along!) and slicked my hair back.

It worked pretty well and my friends thought it was cute. The next day I fluffed it up a little to give it some volume, and then the day after that it was ponytail'ed out!

Vacation hair is always a hassle for me! I'm headed to the Essence Music Festival in two weeks and I have no clue what to do with it. I'll be working most of the time and won't have to time to fuss with my mane too much (if at all). I was considering cornrows, but I'll keep you posted on that!

Summer Brows: My Little Secret

2010-06-16T09:00:00.000-04:00

I'm back guys and boy o' boy do I have a LOT to tell you about my trip! If you follow me on Twitter than you probably already know that I had a rather "interesting" time. I'll give the details later in the week - I'm still very tired after having returned to work the day after I returned home. BUT I love the islands and as long as I'm on one, I'm happy and I still had a great time with my chicas :-)

I wanted to tell you about a little trick I learned from a makeup artist I work with on my job. Since lightening my hair, one of my concerns were my brows. My brows are naturally thick and very dark and I didn't want them to clash with my new hair color. Although I didn't think it was really that necessary (since my hair isn't too light), I had pondered having my brows tinted to a lighter shade. However, I found out that I didn't have to!

I purchased a brow set gel from MAC in Boy/Girl (that's the name of the color). It's a bronzy brown and I absolutely love it! It softens my face and gives my brows a subtle bronze tint. It does the job without me having to take any drastic steps (or spend extra money). I would definitely recommend it if you've got light hair and dark brows like I do.

Price: $15

Before using the Brow Set

After using the Brow Set

Voila!: Final Results

2010-06-10T09:00:00.000-04:00

As promised... The outcome! I typically get 3 to 4 good days out of my wash & go's.

I'm off to the Dominican Republic today so by the time you read this I'll probably be on a beach somewhere in Caberete sipping on a Pina Colada (hopefully, weather permitting)!! I'll be back here on Tuesday with some great new things to chat about.

Till then be good and stay sweet :-)

My Routine: Step-by-Step

2010-06-09T09:00:00.003-04:00

Ok ladies, you've asked for it so here it is: My hair routine. No, it isn't a video tutorial but it should still be rather easy to understand. As always, if you've got questions don't be afraid to ask! Let's begin...

1. I washed my hair last night using the L'Oreal EverPure Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner. With the conditioner still in, I detangled using my Denman brush. After brushing, I don't manipulate my hair. I simply allow the water from the shower head to run over and through my hair while running my hand gently through. I like this 'poo and condish a lot. Look at how shiny and DEFINED my curls look after stepping out of the shower. Amazing. I'm tempted to see how they would dry in this very natural state...

*Dripping wet hair, I never ring it out with a towel, paper towel, or hands - NOTHING!

2. Decide where you want your part, bangs, etc. NOW. Section off with a clip. I always begin at the back parting from ear to ear. Clip the rest.

3. Using about a quarter sized amount of Aveda's Be Curly Curl Enhancer Cream for each section,

I rub my palms together and then rake through, from root to ends making sure all strands have been coated, and then scrunch once. Don't mess with it too much: Rake twice, scrunch once then move on.

4. Repeat until complete.

*Once you're done, don't touch it! So many times I've seen girls flip their hair over, shake it and tousle it: BIG NO-NO!!! Please don't tease or touch your hair once you've applied product. Let it set (or else you're headed for Frizzville)

5. Since I like BIGGER hair with lots of volume I've been avoiding the table top dryer and diffuser (curls dry too flat). I blow dry the curls with full on open air, with my head flipped over (most of the time).

*Once again: Do not tousle and shake your curls while blow drying (as you can see above, I'm not touching my hair). Using the open end of the blow dryer doesn't cause frizz if you're not busy manipulating. It's okay to scrunch once here and there but over-manipulating will leave you with a severe case of the frizzies.

It does take a while (about 15-20 min.) for it to dry completely but it's worth it, trust me! I have a salon strength blow dryer (Turbo 2200) which I picked up from my local beauty supply store for about 50 bucks that rocks!

I'll show you all the results tomorrow... Stay tuned :-P

"Sister, Sister": Where It All Began

2010-06-07T09:00:00.002-04:00

I don't think I actually "wanted" curly hair until the sitcom, "Sister, Sister" debuted. As they grew and got older, I would fall even more in love with their curls. I remember trying to emulate their curls one hot summer day in Virginia, at my grandparents house (where my sister and I would often spend our summers). I had gotten my hands on a bottle of L'Oreal's "Pumping Curls" spray and thought spritz here, spritz there, then poof: Perfect curls!

Boy was I wrong (If only it were that simple!)... :-P

Did you have a hairspiration too?

Friday's Dessert 6/4/10

2010-06-04T09:00:00.000-04:00

Don't you wish EVERY weekend was a three-day one? I totally and completely enjoyed it. What makes it even sweeter is that this week kinda flew by in a flash.

I found this anonymous quote in my little book of bite-sized inspirations ("Don't Wait for Your ship to Come In... Swim Out to Meet It!" compiled by John Mason):

"We cannot become what we need to be by remaining what we are."

Have a great weekend!

My Transitions...

2010-06-03T09:00:00.002-04:00

My hair has been through a LOT of phases/transitions/stages. It's been chopped, fried, dyed, braided and "weaved up" even. I chopped off most of my hair back in 2004 and haven't relaxed it since then. It took approximately two years for it to reach my shoulders and form a reasonable looking ponytail. Around this time, my relaxed ends had also been clipped off during one of my many trips to the hair salon.

Let the journey begin...

Before I got my hair cut, the length was a little longer than what it is now. I had to make THREE different trips to THREE separate salons to finally get it as short as I wanted it. No one wanted to cut my hair and it was very frustrating. This pic was taken when I had finally gotten there.

I LOVED my new haircut but it was a LOT of work to maintain. My hair was relaxed here and I would use a flat iron and/or curling iron with TIGI Bedhead hair wax to style (which I loved immensely)... Definitely an old time favorite.

2005 trip to the Bahamas - My hair was still relaxed here, this was when I'd decided to start growing it out. I don't think I used anything in my hair during this stage except for the Eco-Styler gel.

During the grow-out stage where it was still too short to throw in a ponytail, I experimented. I went to one of the African braiding shops on 125th street to get the braids in this pic. Took alllllll day from about 8am to 8pm, with two women working on me. It was sooooo tight that I only kept them in for a week (in which I had a headache every day!). I knew braids were NOT for me.

During this grow-out phase I also had a weave, which too ended up staying in for only a week. Well, maybe two. Either way, I knew weaves weren't for me neither.

So now you see why I always say my hair has been a "work in progress". It wasn't always easy - Finding the right style, cut, embracing the curls during those times I wanted to resort to the "creamy crack" and learning about my ever-changing hair texture took a whole lot of patience. But in the end, I'm glad I stuck it out.

Denman and I

2010-06-02T09:00:00.002-04:00

Whenever I wash my hair, I keep my Denman brush within reach. I LOVE this brush and if you're a follower of HBS, than you already know that. I've tried shower combs, wide tooth combs and finger detangling but I always return to my trusty Denman.
I purchased my brush about 4 years ago (I think, I've had it for a while now) and it has been working GREAT since the day I ripped it from the packaging (I think it was about ten bucks). I mainly use this brush to detangle in the shower (yes - this brush can be used on wet hair! I highly recommend it) and when I've worn my hair straight, I've used it for wrapping.

To detangle, here's what I do:

In the shower after shampooing, I slather on conditioner, cover with a plastic cap and proceed with washing my body.
When I'm ready to rinse my hair, I remove the cap, turn on the cool water and begin detangling in sections starting at the back. **To help ease through the tangles, I let the water from the shower head run over my hair a few times. This helps to loosen things up a WHOLE lot.
After rinsing, I DON'T RING MY HAIR OR TOWEL DRY IT. I simply let it drip down and cover my shoulders with a towel (I cringe whenever I go to the salon and they use a towel to "dry" my hair).
I then proceed with styling. I don't usually use the Denman brush to detangle once I'm out of the shower (and away from conditioner), I'll normally use my fingers instead.

Do you have a Denman yet?

Hair Care & Color: Play by the Rules

2010-06-01T09:00:00.000-04:00

Some of you have asked about the texture and feel of my hair since coloring. I can honestly say that it still feels the same, it doesn't feel hard or dry at all - And I haven't even deep conditioned it yet (It's been about a month now since I had it done).

As you can see, my curl pattern hasn't been disturbed. This was one of my main concerns with dying my hair because of my experience with henna. With the henna, the benefits were definitely there (stronger hair and less shedding) but my hair texture felt slightly different and my curl pattern changed and even disappeared in some areas. I had sections that would not curl whatsoever!

I'm saying all of this say that if you're considering dying your hair, you should follow these rules:

DO NOT DO IT YOURSELF
Research the color you want and the salon you want to go to.
Don't always go with what's "cheap"
Start with a salon consultation - Have a meet & greet with your proposed stylist. Make sure he or she knows their stuff. Talk it out - Your stylist should make you feel comfortable.
If you currently use henna on your hair, it isn't recommended use dye over it (*my last henna treatment was done a little over a year ago plus I've had a major hair cut since then).

Hope this helps! If you've got any questions, feel free to ask them in the comment box :-)

Friday's Dessert 5/28/10

2010-05-28T09:00:00.002-04:00

The holiday weekend has arrived! I don't have any real plans but I'm hoping the weather holds up... Try to remember this though when you're about to go out tonight:

"Today I will... Not lose an hour in the morning and spend all day looking for it."
- Anonymous

Boy oh' boy do I remember those days :-P

But most importantly - Have fun, be safe and see ya Tuesday!!

Calgel Nails & Me: Update

2010-05-27T09:00:00.005-04:00

For some reason my manicure only lasted a day short of a week! It began peeling and being the nit-picker that I am, I started to peel it off. Bad idea. It got real ugly, real fast.

But don't go getting discouraged though. My coworker religiously goes to Sakura and says she has never had that problem. I guess I wash my hair and do dishes a little too much!

If you look closely, you can see where it peeled off (with my help of course...)

Shrinking Hair

2010-05-26T09:00:00.002-04:00

Summer is coming and those hot, sweltering, STICKY days are just around the corner. I look forward to those days, but my hair doesn't. Prior to my trip to St. Lucia during the Christmas break, my hair (when straightened) was to my mid back. In St. Lucia, my hair was about a good 4 inches from my scalp. I had THAT much shrinkage going on in the 90+ degree weather.

The big question is, how do we avoid that?

There's no foolproof way to avoid humidity. At least not to my knowledge. However, the following does help though:

- First things first: Hair should always be moisturized. Deep condition and treat on a consistent basis. Dry hair will suck up any moisture in the air, which in return will cause a case of the frizzies. No good.

- My coworker swears by Aveda's Brilliant Anti-Humectant pomade. She's from the N.O. (think: super hot & humid), and not only does she not have a relaxer but she wears her natural hair straight all year round.

- I swear by my Eco-Styler Gel (the brown one). To help keep the frizzies at bay and to avoid the frizzy patch at the crown of my head, I coat several sections with the gel prior to going out in the damp weather. Make sure you let it dry before stepping out though.

- Don't forget about those protective styles: Cute buns (low or high, slicked back or puffed up), afro-puffed ponytails (embrace the frizz!), pig-buns, braids, twists, etc... Just don't forget to be creative ;-)

My Product TOPS!

2010-05-25T09:00:00.001-04:00

Whenever someone compliments me on my hair I'm always reluctant to accept the compliment (a habit I need to get out of). I almost always say: "Thanks! But it's a lot of work."
If you've got natural hair, than you know exactly what I mean. See, my hair has been a work in progress that's going on 10 years now. However, I'm finally at a point where I can say that I'm about 95% happy with it now.

Sooo, since I consider each of you "friends in my head", I want to help make your progress easier. I've created a list of products that work exceptionally well for me (something I wish someone could've done for me back in my college days!):

Shampoo - Daily Cleansing (Used once or twice a week)
RenPure Organics "My Pretty Hair is Parched" Moisturizing Shampoo
Carol's Daughter Black Vanilla or Tui Shampoo

Shampoo - Clarifying (Removing product build up) (Used once or twice per month)

Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo
*Anything with Rosemary Mint

Conditioner
RenPure Organics "My Pretty Hair is Parched" Moisturizing Conditioner
Aussie Moist Conditioner

Conditioner - Intensive
Elasta QP DPR-11 Deep Penetrating Conditioner
Mizani True Texture Curl Replenish Intense Moisturizing Mask (Even though I love this product, I think the DPR-11 does the exact same thing at a much lower price)

Styling Cream/Gel (I've listed my top 3 choices, in order of importance)
#1 Aveda Be Curly Curl Enhancer (cream) *I can't say enough good things about this damn cream, I love it and at this point, I've stopped searching for that "better" product.
#2 Bumble & Bumble BB Gel *If I can't have my #1, I'll definitely go for this
#3 Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Leave-in Cream *If I'm in a bind and can't afford #1 or #2, this would be my first choice.

Love it or Leave it: Janet Jackson

2010-05-24T09:40:00.001-04:00

For those who may not know, Ms. Jackson's got a new 'do! I like it on her, it gives her a more fresher appeal... PLUS, its versatile! What do you think?

*photo courtesty of Sandrarose.com

Caring for Color-Treated Curls

2010-05-19T09:42:00.000-04:00

My curls have been colored for probably a little over a month now. The most important thing I've learned about caring for (and keeping the color fresh and vibrant) dyed curls is to avoid sulfates. Plain and simple. Sulfates are detergents that are stripping, drying and dulling. Not good.

I probably didn't need to purchase this set, but I'm a mid-level "Product Junkie" and I just couldn't help myself. It's L'Oreal's EverPure Sulfate-Free Color Care System. I like it. Would I purchase it again? Probably not. Don't get me wrong, it's a great shampoo and conditioner, but I really don't know if it's working, catch my drift? I mean yes, my hair does feel soft, and it is definitely shiny after a good wash, but I can't say that it's doing anything different than my normal shampoo or conditioner.

Is it just me or do you also feel the need to make new purchases when you've changed your hairstyle?

Body Art & The Makeup Show NYC

2010-05-17T17:14:00.001-04:00

Unfortunately I didn't get to go this year (big bummer!) but my sis went and was mostly in awe of all the magnificent body art that was seen walking around... Take a peek below!

Funny but true: I can see Amber Rose in a few of these!

Friday's Dessert 5/14/10

2010-05-14T16:39:00.000-04:00

I don't know about you all, but this has been a rough week.

"To win without fighting is best"
- The Art of War

I read parts of this book during the week and found it to be quite interesting. It's all about strategy and knowing when to go to battle. Pick it up if you can.

Have a wonderful weekend!!

The Make-up Show NYC

2010-05-12T09:00:00.002-04:00

It's that time of year again ladies! I'll be traveling for my job over the weekend, so unfortunately I'm going to miss it. However, if you don't have anything to do this Sunday or Monday, I would highly recommend making a day out of visiting the Show. You WILL leave with a lighter purse but you'll be BOGGED down with all kinds and types of makeup products!

Where?
Metropolitan Pavilion
125 West 18th Street

When?

May 16 and 17, 2010
9am to 6pm

Ticket Info:
$50 (one day ticket)
$80 (two day ticket)
$45 (student one day ticket)
$72 (student two day ticket)
(Click here to purchase tickets)

Feature brands include (but not limited to):
Dermalogica, Eve Pearl, Graftobian, Iredale Mineral Cosmetics, M.A.C Cosmetics, Shu Uemura, L'Oreal, etc.

Tuesday's Trouble: Just BC'd... Now what?

2010-05-11T09:00:00.001-04:00

Whether you've recently undergone the "big chop" or are considering it, I'm sure MANY of you can relate to today's issue at hand:

Dear HBS!

I've got about maybe an inch to 2 inches of hair on my head and I love it! Solange Knowles really served as my inspiration, I think she's fierce! Anyways, It's definitely different for me and I have to learn how to maintain my "new" hair texture (after being "relaxed" pretty much my whole life). My hair is probably a 4a/b (maybe 3c in some spots, big maybe), but yes, I have several textures. The problem I'm having at the moment is that my hair dries out really quickly and it doesn't look good at all when it gets dry.

What can I do to keep it moisturized, shiny and defined? I'm interested in coloring it somewhere down the road too.

Please help!
A. Newdoo

The Lovely Lena Horne

2010-05-10T23:48:00.000-04:00

It was just a little over a year ago when I joined Gangstarr Girl and Brittany (Clumps of Mascara) in their "Women's History Month Beauty Challenge". The goal was to simply recreate a makeup look from a woman I admired. I chose the beautiful and demure Lena Horne.

Here's to a life beautifully lived... May she forever rest in peace.

Below was my recreation... Click here for the full story.

Calgel Nails & Me

2010-05-10T09:00:00.000-04:00

I hope everyone had a great Mother's Day yesterday! It was a breezy but beautiful day here in the Big Apple. On Friday, I decided to get a manicure at the salon near my job. I didn't have time to do my nails myself (which I usually do) so I decided to treat myself and have them done. I was supposed to just get a simple $12 manicure but I kept seeing posters around the salon for this Calgel.
I'm pretty familiar with it and even considered having it done a few months ago but I didn't know that this nail salon offered the treatment. I went for it.

According to the website:

Calgel is a superior gel nail system that promotes nail health, making it the healthier alternative in nailcare. It also soaks off in just 15 minutes! Calgel won't lift, peel, chip, go rubbery or damage your own nails with harsh acrylics or drills. Calgel doesn't interfere with nailbed metabolism which is why it can actually strengthen your own nails giving you the nails you always dreamed about. Calgel can be used on tips or as a natural nail overlay, and is available in over 80 colors, so the days of smudging, chipping and peeling nail polish are over!

The poster in the nail salon said that the Calgel will last 2 to 3 weeks, and that's what sold me. So, I'll keep you all posted!

Have you ever gotten a Calgel manicure before? If so, tell me about it!

Happy Mother's Day, Moms!!

2010-05-09T19:04:00.000-04:00

Hope you've had a GREAT one!

Question of the Day: Product Ingredients

2010-05-06T09:39:00.000-04:00

When I first learned about product ingredients, I became completely overwhelmed. It seemed like 90% of the products I had been using were bad for my hair. BUT, over time, I paid less and less attention to the ingredient label and solely focused on what had been tried and true.

Typically these days I tend to glance at a label before purchasing, but most times it doesn't deter me from purchasing something I really want (though I do try to avoid products that use mineral oil and petrolatum as cheap fillers). My question to YOU is...

Do product ingredients play a big role in your hair care purchases?

LOVE: Aveda Be Curly Curl Enhancer

2010-05-05T09:00:00.002-04:00

Can you say LOVE? Lately, I've been discovering some really great products and yes, the Bumble & Bumble Sculpting gel was great but this... THIS right here... is some seriously good stuff. Aveda's Be Curly Curl Enhancer just might be my curl's soulmate. I began using this about two weeks ago when I got my hair colored at the Aveda salon, it was recommended by my stylist, Jimmy. I've been using it ever since.
Let me just tell you what's so great about it:

My curls last MUCH longer (I can easily get 4 days out of one wash & go)
SEVERELY reduces frizz (the frizzy patch in my crown is gone)
"Curl Enhancer" is an understatement! Believe it or not, I no longer have to do the 2 strand twists w/ straws on the ends. I simply apply the cream and using my fingers to scrunch, my curls are formed.

I allow my hair to air dry for the most part, and then I'll sit under my bonnet dryer for about 20 minutes to dry it completely. What I'm left with are shiny, soft, bouncy, frizz-free curls that LAST.

*Below is a close up of the front section I usually have to twist & curl

According to Aveda's website:

For intensifying curls, taming frizz and heightening shine. Wheat protein blend expands when hair is wet—then retracts when hair is dry—to lock in curls or waves.

part of our 4-step curl perfecting system that dramatically reduces frizz and defines curl up to 57%*
For curly or wavy hair
Intensifies curl
Tames frizz
Boosts shine

The 6.7 oz. tube retails for $18

Do you use Be Curly? I'm mad no one told me about this sooner :-P!!

Completely Random, but...

2010-05-05T00:41:00.001-04:00

I LOVE THESE GUYS!

I got a chance to see them in concert last Wednesday and what else can I say, they were SUPER-dope. Definitely looking forward to the next album.

Tuesday's Trouble: Curled, Straightened and Colored

2010-05-04T09:00:00.005-04:00

If you currently flat iron your mane or are transitioning, have curls that are colored or henna'd than YOU need to read the following (yes, there is something here for everyone)...

Dear HBS,

I just read your post on your new hair color, (cute by the way) and I noticed that you stated you grew out your henna. Would you elaborate a bit on that. The last time I henna'd was in January 2010, I noticed that it just really messed with my curl pattern. A bit of back ground history on my hair:

1.       In Oct. '09, I got my hair flat ironed, because I wanted a trim - first mistake. A week after the trim I jumped in the shower to wash my hair, and it was still straight, it would not curl back up. I was really upset. Just recently my hair is beginning to curl back up.
2.       My hair was chemically died honey blond in Dec. '09. After long thoughts of henna I decided to do it and my hair turned a bright orange. As my hair grew out, I had black roots, and reddish orange hair. I hate it. Last time I used henna was in Jan. '10.
3.       My hair is trying to curl back up, but its struggling, I have cut about 3 - 4 inches off. When stretched, my hair is about 12” in length. I just cut an inch off this morning, because when I do two strand twist the ends are very thin.

Can you help a bit on what I can do? I still have black roots and red ends, that I don’t like. Do you think I will be able to color over the henna? And how can I get my curl pattern back, and why did you stop using henna?

Any help will be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

Confused Curls

(PS - My answers are listed in the comments section!)

Love it or Leave it? Kelly Rowland a la Diana Ross

2010-05-04T00:38:00.000-04:00

Sooo ladies, are you lovin' this new big hair on Ms. Rowland, or are you walkin' away from it?
Do tell!!

A SLOW Monday...

2010-05-03T13:12:00.000-04:00

...To say the least! I've got some GREAT content for you guys this week... Just gotta get around to typing it up! So please just sit tight and bear with me :-)

For now, check out a few of my fave ladies!:

Mane & Chic
Loc Rocker
Newly Natural
Urban Curlz

Amber Mag & Carol's Daughter presents... Manicures & Mojitos!

2010-04-29T13:30:00.001-04:00

Love it or Leave it: Toni Braxton

2010-04-29T10:00:00.000-04:00

I know many of you have already seen these pics but I want to know what you have to say about this "new" look... What is going on here? I hadn't realized that chicks were still shaving the side of their heads...

Thoughts?

Tuesday's Trouble: Relocating?

2010-04-27T10:57:00.001-04:00

This is a great question for me because I've often considered doing the same thing. I just don't have the guts though!

Dear HBS,

I'm a New Yorker to the heart. Born, bred and raised in Brooklyn. At the moment, I work in the fashion industry and to be blatantly honest, I hate it. I'm a spec technician and so...Yeah, nothing glamorous on this end. I've been working at the company for about 6 years and for several months now, I've been feeling the urge to do something daring. I don't have any children, I'm about to be 27 and I don't really have anything keeping me here outside of my apartment lease, which is up in December.

I want to move away from New York - outside of the US to be exact. I've been researching how to become a teacher in Jamaica, Trinidad, and Haiti to name a few. A totally different direction than where I'm at now and the problem is that I don't have any experience in teaching. Most of the positions want their teachers to have a background in teaching and a degree (which I do have).
I just don't know what to do and I'm tired of being just another girl in Brooklyn. Any suggestions?

Thank you for allowing to post my thoughts!!
Jess

My NEW Hair Color

2010-04-26T10:57:00.002-04:00

Ok so I was originally going for a blondish/ medium brown color BUT after speaking with one of the best colorists at Aveda, I was told that if I wanted to go any lighter, bleach would need to be used which would then mess with my curl pattern. I've worked too hard and waited too long to get my curl pattern the way it is (after growing out the henna, the curls on the left front side of my head are finally beginning to "come back", I don't even have that frizzy section in the crown anymore!), so any thoughts of disturbing what I've worked SO hard to achieve and maintain would automatically be tossed to the side.

I then opted for a more softer auburn brown with honey-ish colored highlights around the front to frame my face. The photos I've taken were done with on Blackberry and aren't that great but I promise to take better ones (for some reason the cameras aren't really capturing the true essence of my hair color - these were the best thus far). If you're interested in coloring your hair, I would definitely suggest making a visit to Jimmy at Aveda* (20 Vandam Street location) - He knows his stuff and will NOT lead you wrong! Another great feat is that he KNOWS curly hair!! I was so happy that I did NOT have to go home and re-style my hair. He styled my hair using Aveda's Be Curly creme. I'll do a review on that shortly - I had my hair done on Saturday and it's STILL looking awesome today (despite the rain!).

*I found out about Jimmy through Roselyn at www.temptd.com!! Her hair is FAB!!!

Friday's Dessert 4/23/10

2010-04-23T17:28:00.002-04:00

Happy Friday folks! Another week gone by...

"...Sometimes it better to fix yourself than to mess with other people."
- Benjie, "A Hero Ain't Nothin' But A Sandwich" by Alice Childress

Can't wait till tomorrow - It's the big hair day. Make sure you come back first thing Monday morning to get the scoop!!

Have a great weekend :-)

Surprise

2010-04-22T10:27:00.000-04:00

I'm doing something MAJOR with my hair this weekend. MAJOR. Can't wait to share with you guys on Monday, I'm super excited because it's something I've always wanted to do and I feel NOW is finally the time for me to "go all out" with it.

Think you can guess what it is?

Look Who's Back!

2010-04-20T10:22:00.001-04:00

Lauryn Hill... I found this pic along with several others over on Necole Bitchie's site and I just had to post it. I think she looks pretty darn good! Considering the last few years have been a little rough on her it seems like she may be coming out on top... What do you think?

*For more pics and details, check out: http://necolebitchie.com/2010/04/20/lauryn-hill-looks-good

Basketball Wives: Love it or Leave it?

2010-04-19T09:11:00.001-04:00

I've heard so much about this show - Before it began and even now, after last week's season premiere. How do you feel about it? I missed the first episode, but I did see last night's and I must honestly say I'm not too enthused. It feels like a watered down version of The Real Housewives of Atlanta and I'm not really seeing what the big deal is.
Thoughts?

Quick Question of the Day

2010-04-15T10:17:00.000-04:00

Is your curly hair colored? If not, are you considering it?

It's Back!: Tuesday's Trouble... Too Black/Too Strong

2010-04-13T09:00:00.002-04:00

You've asked for it and now you've got it - HBS is bringing Tuesday's Trouble back! Got an issue? Send it to hbsbabe@ymail.com and allow your fellow "Honey-heads" to help you out.

Dear HBS,

I've had this concern on my mind for a very long time now. I started law school (corporate law) not too long ago and before I even took the LSAT, my mom, family members and friends have been nagging me about my "looks". Yes, I am a proud chocolate "sista" with a full shape (not thin by any means) with a little past shoulder length locs. My mom is convinced I will NOT find a job in corporate America "lookin' like dat" as some of cousins and several friends also believe.

Now, I'm very headstrong (perhaps too black, too strong" even). My locs aren't "fashion" either - I do not palm roll or re-twist. Here's the problem: I've been beaten down so much by so many of my loved ones that I am beginning to think they may have a point. Maybe I DO need to tone it down. Just a bit.

What do you all think? Part of me feels I shouldn't have to change for nothing or no one but this is corporate America and the fact of the matter is, some things just won't fly.

Sincerely,

Black N. Proud

Janelle Beauty: Chemical-Free Straightening Kit

2010-04-12T09:50:00.000-04:00

I've never heard of Janelle Beauty (www.janellebeauty.com) until one of my friends brought the brand to my attention a few months ago. She's recently gone au naturale but has been wearing kinky twists, because she's not comfortable styling her hair and gets easily tempted to relax again (her hair type closely resembles a 4b/c). So with that being said, she was told about Janelle Beauty's straightening kit from her hair braider.

According to the site:

The Janelle Beauty Smooth Kit (Deluxe Edition) sells for $64.99 (web) and includes the following:

Diva Smooth ($25 Value)- Diva Smooth is a pure natural alternative to chemical based hair relaxers. Diva Smooth is based on a finely tuned mixture of all natural ingredients that when applied together with a flat-iron, your hair comes out naturally smooth and healthy. No Parabens. No Mineral Oil. Size: 8oz. Made in the USA.

Rosemary Mint Hair Wash A pure hair cleansing experience, Rosemary and Mint Hair Wash, is formulated to stimulate your scalp, feed your hair and encourage hair growth.

Mint Conditioner with Tea Tree (NEW) -A natural conditioning system that deposits high levels of moisture and nutrients into your hair. The Janelle Beauty Moisturizing Conditioner is chuck full of only pure goodness and is formulated with the purest ingredients available. No Sodium Lauryl Sulfates, No Parabens, No Mineral Oil.
Size: 4oz.

Virgin Coconut Hair Serum - Restore and add glorious shine to your hair with hair penetrating virgin coconut and jojoba oil. Ideal for use as a pre-wash and post-wash grooming product. Use prior to applying flat-iron or any form of heat No Sodium Lauryl Sulfates, No Parabens, No Mineral Oil.
Size: 1oz.

So what do you think ladies? Would you give JB a go? Have you heard of this brand before?

Friday's Dessert 4/9/10

2010-04-09T09:01:00.000-04:00

Happy Friday!! It's been a crazy week for me (which is why there were only 2 posts!) but I'm glad the weekend has arrived. Couldn't be happier.

"Confront the dark parts of yourself, and work to banish them with illumination and forgiveness. Your willingness to wrestle with your demons will cause your angels to sing. Use the pain as fuel, as a reminder of your strength."
- August Wilson

I love this quote soooo much- it speaks to me on many levels. Hope you love it as well!

Have a great weekend!

And the Results Are In...

2010-04-07T09:00:00.017-04:00

After exactly six long weeks, I finally received my maternal lineage results from African Ancestry. In case you may have missed it, I ordered the testing kit through their website (click here to read that story) and six weeks later, I received my answer.

According to African Ancestry:
I have a sequence similarity measure of 100%, which means that my sequence is 100% the same as sequences from the Yoruba and Fulani in Nigeria today.

The package breaks down the DNA sequence patterns, explains what Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) is, how to read it, and how the mutations affect the analysis.
A few people that I told don't believe that this is "for real". Real or not, I'm a lover of roots and culture regardless! It's nice to be able to wonder though... Because, hey, ya never know ;-)

Janet's Curls & "Why Did I Get Married Too"

2010-04-05T08:59:00.003-04:00

Hope everyone had a wonderful weekend and a great Easter Sunday. On Saturday night, my boyfriend and I hit up the movie theater to see Tyler Perry's "Why Did I Get Married Too". I have never seen anything like this: Most of the shows were sold out but we were able to get into the 10:30pm show. At 10pm, we started heading for the theater to get our seats but were told we had to line up outside around the side of the building. About ten minutes later, we were being ushered into the theater. It was packed. I haven't checked the stats yet this morning but I know for a fact WDIGMT came in at #1 in the box office. Had to!

Any-who, I won't tell you anything about the movie but I will tell you I was NOT a fan of Janet's hair. I know she has naturally curly hair but this look she had just wasn't working for me. It was too long, uneven and really straggly. I didn' t like it at all (looked a little Jeri curl-ish).

I know it was just a movie and that was her character but things like that really catch my attention and will distract me (I guess it's a pet peeve of mine)! On the other hand, Tasha Smith's character always has the best hair IMO, Sharon Leal's short bob also looked good too. Didn't really care for that weave Jill Scott wore though.

Did you get to see the movie? Better yet, did you like it?

Friday's Dessert 4/2/10

2010-04-02T16:28:00.000-04:00

My favorite day of the week!

"I wanted to remind people I`m just flesh and blood. I falter. I am poor. I am blind. I am pitiable. I am naked. But I`m here and that is the blessing. The gift of life."
-Jill Scott

Have a Happy Easter, a great weekend and enjoy this wonderful weather!

Be back Monday; same time, same place!

Spiced Honey

Checking In!

An Awesome Twist-Out: LoveIslandBeauty

Basketball Wives and those EARRINGS!

Texturizer?

Where to Begin?

Shea Moisture's Deep Treatment Masque

Happy New Year!

What's Working NOW: Cantu & Hair Mayo

When Great Hair HURTS

Checking in!!

Be back soon!

Re-Post: Roller Setting

Basic & Simple Roller Set

*New Method*: Texture Play

Wash & Set Contents

Forever In Our Hearts....

Free Your Mane

Love it or Leave it? Amerie

Essentious Natural Hair Care - The Review

"Jump & Wave" Day!

Back from Barbados :-)

Huetiful Hair Steamer Winner!

My apologies!

Back to Black

French-braid'd Up

Huetiful Hair Steamer and Giveaway

Tuesday's Trouble: Twisting the Truth?

Friday's Dessert: 8/6/10

Top 10 Flat Irons... According to Flat Iron Experts

Tuesday's Trouble: Wednesday's Edition!

Essentious Natural Hair Care

Summer Reading: Platinum by Aliya S. King

Karmin Salon Pro - Flat Iron Giveaway Winner

My Sun Secret

Q & A

Karmin Salon Pro - Flat Iron Giveaway

My Tracee Ellis Ross Hair

Steve Harvey Doesn't Like Our Hair...

Twitter Winner

Are You On?

Natural Curls & Caipirinhas at Khamit Kinks Salon

Hair Battle Spectacular

Curly Hair Consultations? ...An idea

Tuesday's Trouble:

Aveda's Be Curly vs. Garnier's Sleek & Shine Leave-in Cream

Friday's Dessert

A Disgruntled Commenter?

High Humidity & Hair

The Essence Festival '10

Friday's Dessert

Traction Alopecia: Naomi Campbell?

Getting it in Line: Invisalign

Essence Music Festival, Anyone?

Friday's Dessert 6/25

Love it or Leave it? Solange

Pantene Beauty Breakfast & the Big Sulfate Question

Pantene Breakfast Launch

My Trip to DR: What They Didn't Tell Me

Vacation Hair

Summer Brows: My Little Secret

Voila!: Final Results

My Routine: Step-by-Step

"Sister, Sister": Where It All Began

Friday's Dessert 6/4/10

My Transitions...

Denman and I

Hair Care & Color: Play by the Rules

Friday's Dessert 5/28/10

Calgel Nails & Me: Update

Shrinking Hair

My Product TOPS!

Love it or Leave it: Janet Jackson

Caring for Color-Treated Curls

Body Art & The Makeup Show NYC

Friday's Dessert 5/14/10

The Make-up Show NYC

Tuesday's Trouble: Just BC'd... Now what?

The Lovely Lena Horne

Calgel Nails & Me

New Method: Texture Play

My NEW Hair Color