Fenty Beauty is Finally Here!

September is the season of new fashion and beauty trends, along with clean and crispy autumn weather. The days of celebrities collaborating with big makeup brands such as M.A.C. cosmetics are no longer trending as they once did. Many celebrities such as Kim and Kylie Jenner are creating their own beauty brands to represent their own image and brand. This week Rihanna released her long-awaited Fenty Beauty cosmetics line. What separate's Fenty Beauty from the Kardashian/Jenner brand? The answer is simple, DIVERSITY! The line features 40 different foundations, which means there is a shade that can compliment a vast variety of different skin tones.

Fenty Beauty launched on Friday September 8th at 12 A.M. PST, which means those on East Coast had to set their alarm clocks for 3 A.M. I was able to make my purchase via the Sephora. My goodies should arrive tomorrow Monday, September 11th. I haven't been this excited about a makeup brand, since forever. Of course, anything Rihanna touches literally turns into Killawatt, Trophy Wife gold!!!

Stay tuned for my full review with swatches of Fenty Beauty, in my follow-up post. You can learn more about Fenty Beauty on the brand's website and at your local Sephora store/online. P.S. I love that products are restocking quickly, and there' no need to pouty about items you want selling out!

Image Credit: SLCareer Studio

Fenty Beauty Products

 

 

If you want to Shine Bright Like a Diamond, get your hands on some Fenty Beauty ASAP. As you all may know, Rihanna did the damn thing with her new beauty line. Women of all walks of life have been praising her new line of makeup. The glow-up is real with these products and Fenty Beauty is not just another beauty brand created by a celebrity. I received my package from Sephora a few days after the U.S. launch of Fenty Beauty.

 

 The products I purchased were the Innvisimatte blotting paper (comes with a built-in mirror), Gloss Bomb lip gloss, and the Killawatt highlighter in Ginger Bing/Moscow Mule. I also received a free sample of the foundation. I believe the shade sent to me was in the 400s at my request.  haven't tried any of the products yet however, I may insert swatches of the highlighter and lip gloss and will report my findings. Based on the reviews, I've seen online the makeup is said to be lightweight  on the skin, without feeling like makeup. Can we talk about the packaging of these products? So pretty and chic, and the branding of Rihanna's last name is very her. The names of each product are very well thought out and suit the theme of her brand. Fenty Beauty Approved!

 

 

My Favorite Beauty Products

Holy Grail beauty products are a lifesaver for those of us that are always on the go, with limited time to test the waters of new products. Don't get me wrong, I love trying new products however, within the past 3 years, I've found myself repurchasing these items like crazy! I have a preference of buying and using beauty products that are natural/organic, which includes hair and skincare. Today, I'm sharing the products that make my hair soft and shiny and my skin glow beyond measures.  I will list each product shown, with a short description and of course, will mention where you can find these fabulous products.

Camille Rose Naturals Carmel Cowash: If you have curly hair like I do, shampoo can really strip our already dry hair, of it's natural oils. I like this co wash, which is a conditioning cleanser that cleanses my hair and scalp without making my hair dry and frizzy afterwards. Some of the key ingredients in this product, are coconut, keratin, rosemary, and argan oil. You can find this product on the Naturally Curly website.

Camille Rose Naturals Curl Love Moisture Milk: I like to style my hair with this hair milk and it smells amazing, like frosted vanilla cupcakes. This product is not only great at moisturizing my hair, it provides a faint, soft hold for my curls. The Camille Rose products promise to hydrate, soften, and strengthen the hair. The key ingredients in this product is rice milk and macadamia oil. You can find this product at your local Target store.

Curl Junkie, Curl Rehab Moisturizing Hair Treatment: My one and only favorite hair mask is by Curl Junkie, and it's the Curl Rehab deep conditioner. What I love about this deep conditioner, is that a little goes a long way. This conditioner can be used with or without heat. I choose to use heat with mine, for about 15-20 minutes once a week. This conditioner is very universal and I've seen positive reviews from various women with different hair types and hair textures. This product also contains 98% natural/naturally derived ingredients, according to the Curl Junkie website. My hair is always soft after using this conditioner, and my hair always smells amazing, and the scent lasts for about 3-4 days. I like to purchase this conditioner from Amazon or the Curl Junkie website.

 

Curls Blueberry Bliss Control Paste: My haircare regimen could not be complete without this product. This control paste/gel contains natural ingredients such as silk amino acids, keratin, and castor oil, and is great for slicking down hair unruly hair. I like to use this product to have my baby hairs on fleek. I like to do sleek or sometimes tousled curly updos, and I prefer to have a polished look. This control paste, also does not cause build up on the hair, and zero white flakes! I like to purchase the Curls Blueberry Bliss Control Paste from my local Target.

Shea Moisture Peace Rose Oil Complex Mud Mask: My favorite skincare product is by Shea Moisture and it's the Sensitive Skin Peace Rose Oil Complex mud mask. This product exceeded my expectations for a drugstore skincare product. This product is geared towards sensitive skin however, it works fine on my normal/dry skin type. It smells like a flower bed of fresh roses and deeply cleanses my face, leaving it bright, soft, and supple. I like to purchase the travel packets of this mask for traveling purposes. I use this mask twice a week, and you only need a small amount of this product to get the job done! I like to purchase the travel  packets of these masks from Ulta  online.

Argan Oil: Pure and organic Argan oil is a big contributor to my beauty regimen. I like to use this oil everywhere! I use Argan oil on my hair, face, and body. The actual oil is very cost-friendly compared to the Moroccan Oil brand. This is another product you don't need much of once your hair/skin maintains a sufficient moisture balance. You can find natural/organic Argan oil in a lot of health food stores, Whole Foods, and some drug stores. The brand of Argan oil I like to purchase is by Aura Cacia, and I can literally find this locally where I live. You can also purchase this brand of the oil from the Thrive Market online. 

I cannot end this blog post without mentioning Glamour Magazine's June issue titled Bare Beauty, which embraces minimalistic beauty. This is one of my favorite issues, so far this year!

This post was edited on May 13, 2017 for clarity and accuracy.

My BeautyCon NYC Experience

I attended my first BeautyCon event on Saturday May, 20th, 2017 in NYC.  The event was like no other event, I've attended in the past. There was lots of beauty, fashion, and lifestyle brands tied into one event. I had the luxury of seeing and meeting some of my favorite YouTube Content Creators and Celebrities. I definitely enjoyed the vibes of BeautyCon and everyone there was very friendly and welcoming.

BeautyCon has the best packaging for their tickets! I did not expect to receive a tiny package of love in the mail. I received a BeautyCon X ColorPop lipstick and a iron-on nail polish, with lipstick BeautyCon patch, in my box.  

The L'Oreal Paris booth was literally like  being in the city of love! There was a floral bouquet, replica of the Eiffel Tower and pink and purple Macaroons.  

      

The Soap & Glory booth was pretty amazing, each guest at the booth received their new Sexy Mother Pucker lip gloss.

The BeautyCon shopping cart inside the booth area. I purchased a BeautyCon tote bag for $80, which was filled with beauty products. I thought the bag wasn't really worth it in my opinion.  I like using products with more natural and organic ingredients. I did receive a tons of free products from a lot of different booths like Shea Moisture (no shade). 

There was also free food and drinks at some of the booths like Califia Farms. Just a little FYI there were outside food vendors and food sold inside the venue. I purchased a Matcha bubble tea drink from this booth right here, it tasted like green tea. 

The powerful and inspirational Gabrielle Union, was on the Main Stage discussing what beauty means to her and why she created her new hair care line Flawless.

My absolute favorite part of BeautyCon was meeting the lovely MahoganyCurls at the As I Am booth. MahoganyCurls was very sweet and friendly, we had a small chat and took a few pictures together. She is one of my favorite Natural Hair YouTube Gurus. I also met Bryshere Gray aka Yazz the Great from Empire. I took a picture of him however, due to the crowd it did not come out that well. Other Influencers and Content Creators, I had the luxury of seeing were Kandee Johnson, Shannon Boodram (Remember Those Girls Are Wild?), and the gorgeous Alba Ramos also known as SunKissAlba. 

Overall, I have a wonderful time at BeautyCon New York City, and I cannot wait to attend again next year. I really loved receiving a free t-shirt from the Pretty Little Thing clothing company, and what a coincidence the t-shirt was in my size! I found that with a General Admission pass, I still had access to a lot of things versus having the Social/Hauler package.  The overload of pink, unicorns, and confetti was surreal. BeautyCon is truly a magical place to visit!!! To learn more about BeautyCon, you can visit their website here. Stay tuned for a follow up post on the makeup and different products I received at BeautyCon. 

           

           


                       




This post was edited on May 21, 2017 for accuracy and clarity. 

May Favorites

Grooming + Perfume

This month I purchased some new beauty products and my usual cult favorites. I'm really into skincare and grooming items versus makeup. I like my skin to look natural as possible, while maintaining a polished and groomed look.

Boscia Blotting Sheets: I've always been a fan of the brand Boscia, and I've used their products when I was in college. The Clear Complexion Blotting Linens are my favorite ones to use from the brand, and have a nice fresh scent. They are made with clean ingredients  and contain Willow Bark extract. These sheets collect a lot of oil from your face, while leaving your skin feeling clean and refreshed. You can pick these up for $10.00 at your local Sephora or Ulta Beauty.

Chloe Perfume: The original Chloe scent is my absolute favorite to wear, and it's the only perfume I use. I've been wearing this for years, the scent is clean, powdery, and floral. Very light as well! I wear this day or night. I always keep a roll on perfume in my bag for touch ups during the day. You can find the roll on perfume at Sephora for $30.00. The size is also travel friendly! 

Anastasia Beverly Hills Scissors: I don't wear makeup on my brows or on my entire face however, Anastasia Beverly Hills has best products, hands down to keep your eyebrows in shape! I recently purchased this scissors during the Sephora VIB sale, and these are sharp and precise. I've used this scissors twice trim my brows. I purchased this scissors from Sephora for $22.00 (expensive but worth it).  

Pink Disposable Mascara Wands: I picked up an interesting beauty trick online, and using a disposable mascara wand or spoolie to brush serums in to your brows, is totally a thing! You can use these wands on your eyelashes as well. This allows you to distribute product better to your brows and lashes. The only con, is that they are not eco-friendly, since you are throwing them after each use. You also don't have to buy pink, and can get any color you want! I purchased these from Amazon for around $.5.00, from a vendor named AKStore.

Thank you for reading about my May Favorites, and please check out what I will be loving during the month of June! 

Storage for hair, beauty products, jewelry, and More!

Peep my poofy braid out lol 

Hello ladies,
I want to share how I store my hair, beauty, and jewelry items. Today I went to Bed, Bath, and Beyond to purchase a organizing bin for clothing or shoes. I purchased a day/night caddy, which holds my hair products, tools, and other beauty items.

DIY: Honey + Lemon Juice Facial Mask

A couple of weeks ago I was googling different homemade remedies for naturally correcting common skincare problems. I wouldn't say I have very bad dark circles under my eyes but there's some differentiation in pigment. I'm anemic which means I have an iron deficiency, which causes lack of oxygen flowing to the tissues in the body. Being anemic can cause a dark pigment under the eyes. When my iron level is low, under my eyes are a little darker than normal. I learned that several homemade treatments can be made to improve the condition under the eyes. I remember watching women putting cucumbers under their eyes in 'Chick Flick' movies. I always wondered did that ever work? I used cucumbers under my eyes a couple of times, and did not see any noticeable results.

 A couple of weeks ago,  I mixed honey and a couple drops of lemon in a small bowl together and conducted a patch test on my skin. Whenever you're trying out a new concoction of a homemade remedy, always do a patch test for at least 24 hours. Sometimes we can have allergic reactions to different foods. I remember years ago I broke out in a rash from using potatoe skins under my eyes. I had this horrible rash for about a week. After I showed no signs of allergies from the mixture, which was placed in my refrigerator. I applied the mask to my face and left it on for about 20-30 minutes. I washed the mixture off with warm water. My face appeared smooth, bright, and and supple. My dark circles were also a little less noticeable. I think if I continued this treatment every week or every other week, the condition of my dark circles would improve.

I only did this treatment once therefore, I don't have much to say about the long-term results. There's also a book I read a couple of years ago called 'Passport to Beauty' by Shalini Vadhera. The book talks about different beauty remedies women in different parts of the world use to enhance their natural beauty. I will try doing another honey and lemon juice mask again this week and document further results.

Why I'm Transitioning to Natural Hair?

One of the most debatable topics there is among the African-American community is 'Natural' vs. 'Relaxed' hair. I think most multicultural people, have been brainwashed to accept the Eurocentric standards of beauty. I think beauty comes in all forms, shapes, sizes, and people. As a young black woman, I think embracing my culture is a reflection of my personality. For the past two years, I have been struggling back and forth between transitioning to natural hair and going back to relaxers. This year, I was pretty much sick and tired of all the prissy high-maintenance, hair-damage-drama, and the price tag of relaxers.

I remember back in High School, all I wanted was long flowing, silky, and straight hair. I watched the success girls at my high school had from the result of relaxers. I even began spending my entire Saturday mornings/afternoons at Dominican hair salons. My hair didn't thrive well even though my hair had week to week salon treatments. My hair always had it's ups and downs with relaxers (more downs than ups).  My hair barely grew past shoulder length but it retained thickness, body, and shiny. In college, I learned more about Black hair care. I slowly began to learn that the chemicals were damaging my hair. The chemicals from receiving relaxers, did not allow my hair to grow in a healthy state. Back in 2009/2010, my hair suffered great damage from a bad relaxer. Most of my hair at the back portion and nape completely broke off down the the scalp! That was such a stressful period in my life. My damage began to grow out at the end of 2010/2011 but it still wasn't healthy enough. I began researching hair damage and reading enough I could about Black hair care. My mother began to think I was putting too much emphasis into my hair. I didn't care what anyone thought, I was on a mission for having healthier hair.

During my research, I came across many blogs that recommend product reviews for natural hair products geared towards Black or Multicultural people. The products by Shea Moisture kept popping up everywhere. Luckily, I had a Target within driving distance in my neighborhood. The first product I tried from that line was the Shea Moisture Coconut and Hibiscus Curl and Style Milk. Boy, did I fall in L-O-V-E!!! This product delivered everything I wanted and more to my hair. My hair was no longer dry and crunchy feeling. I tossed my Organic Roots Stimulator Hair Lotion in the garbage and never looked back since. Shea Moisture's products remain a staple in my current hair care regimen today. My favorite products are the Coconut and Hibiscus Curl and Style Milk (short orange bottle, also mentioned above), and the Organic Raw Shea Butter, Deep Treatment, which I like to use as a deep conditioner and styler.

Karen's Body Beautiful was another great choice that helped my hair get back on track. I literally went bananas, and had a shopping spree once I was finished with a sample pack I decided to try out first. What had me hooked on KBB was the enticing variety of scents you could choose from. My favorite scent of all time is 'Vanilla Latte'. It reminds me of my favorite drink at Starbucks which none the less is... a Tall Vanilla Latte! KBB products are indescribable for me. Her products just work for my hair. I never had a bad hair day using her products yet! My favorite products are (some are not exact product names) the shampoo bar for dry, thirsty hair, Sweet Ambrosia (Hair Milk), Butter Love (like a pomade for the hair, I use this on my scalp twice a week), Heavenly Jojoba Oil, and the Luscious Locks Hair Mask.

Now time to get into the nitty gritty... Why I have chosen to go natural? This question is short sweet and simple. I like to express myself. I find that textured/curly hair works best for me. I feel sexier, confident, daring, cute, sweet, etc, when my hair has the appearance of looking 'natural'. I have spent too many years trying to manipulate my hair into looking and behaving as something it was never meant to do. I'm not knocking anyone with straight hair whether it's natural, relaxed, flat ironed, weaved, etc. If you look fly and it works for you, then DO YOU! Going natural is something I feel is long over due in my life. I never asked or wanted to have a chemical relaxer placed on my beautiful hair as a child at 13/14 years old.

I think my hair can become healthier without the chemicals. Currently, I wear my hair mostly in braid outs or buns. Before I ended a long relaxer stretch which I tried my hardest to transition, I was doing too much to my hair. Flat ironing was too much on my fine hair strands. A lot of manipulation, had led me right back to relaxing (SMH). But now I have chosen to get off the 'creamy crack' for good. Now I'm saying DUECES!!! to my hair stylist too! I don't think textured hair can take away from a person's beauty or make them undesirable. I think there's too much time, money, and propaganda spent dictating to Black Women. The media has told us too long how we should look, dress, act, and behave. I refuse to let society down play my ethnicity and tell me what I should do with myself and my hair. I'm too much of an outspoken and free-spirited individual. I don't time to listen to  the woes of society.

If you embody confidence, creativity, style, and sass, then honey you will be just as beautiful with your hair in it's natural state. At the end of the day what works for some isn't going to work for all. Some people praise women for having natural hair or are in the transitioning process. Meanwhile, some still look down upon hair that isn't chemically straightened or weaved. I know people have their own preference but to say you don't like natural hair when you're a black person is some... ish to me! That's a whole other issue that's just ridiculous. I'm not going natural for political reasons, to piss anyone off (negative family members, friends, strangers, etc), or to be Afrocentric (which isn't a bad thing). I'm simply doing this for me! I commend all women who are natural or transitioning like myself. Excuse my french, but you can most certainly be a bad b*tch with some gorgeous natural hair!!! Wanting or a having natural hair should never make you feel less than a woman, undesirable, ugly, etc. When you find out what works for you and your hair, nobody should tell you otherwise!

A Grown Woman's History Month

Beyoncé - Formation Video
Image source Beyoncé/Robin Harper

Women's History Month, is generally about celebrating achievements, contributions, and challenges women have faced in society over a period of time globally. Women have endured and still battle obstacles and scrutiny in today's society, which limits their ability to gain  respect for their power and femininity. Women's History Month was originated and nationally celebrated in 1981, in which Congress passed a law to dedicate a week in March to celebrate women and their contributions to history.

Operation Eyebrows on Fleek

Image Source: Harpers Bazaar

One of my newest beauty obsessions lately has been my eyebrows. Through the years of waxing and plucking my eyebrows, has left them in a bit of a stagnant thin state. To beef my situation up, I've been on a no plucking or waxing binge. The only area I will puck is in the middle of my eyebrows (to prevent a unibrow) and any stray, unruly hairs underneath my natural brow shape. At the beginning of the month, I've headed to Sephora and my local drug store to purchase some grooming tools by Tweezerman. Now that we have come towards the end of November, I've seen small changes in the past 4 weeks and I'm happy! Your eyebrows shape the frame of your face and contributes a lot to your natural beauty. Keep reading for my eyebrow care tips!

Camille Rose Naturals Curl Love Review + Big Chop

Hi dolls,

Happy New Year to you all! It's finally 2013, and I think this year is going to be very prosperous and fantastic. I have a product review today on Camille Rose Naturals Curl Love moisture milk. I heard great things about this all-natural hair care line from a few Youtube videos. I purchased this product from Ave You beauty boutique online about three weeks ago. At the time of purchase, the Camille Rose website (shop) was temporarily closed for the holidays. I received my purchase from Ave You pretty quickly. I paid $14.00 for this product. I received a cute Eco-friendly tote bag along with my purchase (shown above). I thought this was a great gesture for a beauty store to include a free plus chic tote bag with every purchase.

October Favorites: Recap ♡

Happy November everyone,

I am having a wonderful time enjoying the Autumn/Winter season. I love the cooler months because I have more options with experimenting with fashion. I have a few favorite items I have been loving during the month of October. As always, I was not paid to feature/review these items. Nor am I affiliated with the companies mentioned below. Thanks.  Let's get started!

Essie's Bahama Mama: Favorite Fall/Winter Nail Polish

Happy Thanksgiving Dolls!!!

Today I am sharing my favorite Fall/Winter nail polish, I am obsessed with at the moment. Towards the end of October, I literally went to every drug store in my area trying to find this polish on the shelves. This polish is none other than Essie's Bahama Mama. Usually, I am not a lover of dark colored polishes however, this one is a beauty! It's a dark plum/burgundy polish with purple undertones, that I believe complements every skin tone.

Sugaring NYC + Sugaring Paste Review

One of my favorite beauty spas and services I like to have performed monthly (like clockwork) is Sugaring. Sugaring NYC is my favorite and go-to salon/spa to get waxed... and let's get a little REAL for a moment. I like to get waxed pretty much everywhere, which includes Brazilian's, underarms, thighs, full legs, and face. Since COVID-19, the Government Shutdown, and individualized city/state lockdowns, make visiting this cute location, nearly impossible, and a luxury, I truly miss! I totally respect this is all necessary to help contain and prevent the spread of the Coronavirus.

I use to LOVE booking my waxing appointment with my favorite Estheticians (Sugaristas as I like to call them) and go to my happy place, during my 1:45 minute long monthly session. I'm currently missing this cute pink safe haven. Inside of Sugaring NYC is very millennial pink, and their cute backdrops in the main waiting area produces some of the BEST lighting for flicking up great selfies, and catching a Beyonce worthy glow!

I'm very lucky and grateful, to have all the right tools at home to Sugar myself at home, while everyone is at home, and maintaining social distancing. I always keep a container of sugaring paste at home for those worst case scenarios, where I have to skip my appointment, and need a little maintenance to get me by for the next few weeks. Sugaring NYC's Sugaring Paste Organic and made with Natural ingredients, that you can practically eat!

Sugaring NYC, recently came out with a Sugaring Kit, (sugaring powder pictured, not included) and it's the most AMAZING product I could ever come across. Inside the kit you will receive the infamous Organic Sugar Paste, which has been a #1 seller on AMAZON for 3 years in a row,  with 2 easy to use pink applicators, and 2 sets (4 pieces) pink nitrite gloves. I can honestly take this kit with me on vacation if I needed to, all items in the box can easily be stowed away in a suitcase or neatly in smaller storage areas. The Sugaring Kit retails for $25.00, which can be purchased on Sugaring NYC's retail website Sugar Paste or AMAZON. If you're interested in purchasing a lovely kit, you can use my promo code: THEPRETTYSTYLING to receive 10% discount on your order.

I like to warm up my sugar paste for about 10-15 seconds to make it more pliable prior to application. I'm still a newbie at sugaring, and haven't reached pro-status therefore, I love the traditional method of using wax strips. The sugar paste has never gone bad on me, and I typically keep it in a dark cool place for about 2-3 months. I typically on purchase 1-2 containers at a time. The paste literally smells like sugar, because it is made of just that, and a new other natural ingredients. It takes me a little over 2 hours to complete my entire routine depending on the areas of the body to be waxed. Honestly, for this reason, I still prefer to have this process done at Sugaring NYC. A skilled Sugarista can have all my beauty services completed within a hour.

How cool is this? A few months ago my Instagram page was featured and mentioned on the Sugaring NYC website! Sugaring NYC has locations sprinkled throughout the NYC and in various other states in the United States. When social distancing is no longer a thing, check out their website to see if there's a location in your town/city!

Disclaimer: This post is not sponsored. I am a Brand Ambassador for Sugaring NYC, if you click or shop with our affiliate link and/or code, you do not pay more or less for the Sugaring Kit or other amazing products sold. I do receive a small commission for products purchased with the affiliate links. All products mentioned in this blog post were purchased with my own money.

Image Credit: Melinda Wheeler

- Mel

John Masters Organics Review

While strolling through the isles of Whole Foods, I decided to take a peak at their skincare and beauty section. I always wanted to try John Masters Organics products for ages, and finally had the chance to. One of my favorite YouTube beauty gurus, SunKissAlba, raves about these products. A few days ago, I purchased the Jojoba & Ginseng Exfoliating Face Cleanser. What I love about this product is that it is so calming and purifying after you use it. The Exfoliating beads are not terribly annoying, and are small and wash off easily. This product smells pleasantly like lemon pie. Now let's get into the price... As I write this post, and look down at my Whole Foods receipt, I paid $22.99 for the Jojoba & Ginseng Exfoliating Face Cleanser. I'm use to paying no more than $10-$14 for skincare products, and this is the most I've paid in a long time. However, this product is well worth it!

The product I want to try next is the John Masters Organics Moroccan Clay Purifying Mask. I was poking around the Internet, and found an online store called DERMSTORE, that carries this item. The price tag is high, and costs $30, I will definitely be doing some homework on reviews before I purchase. As of right now, this product is on my skincare wish list. 

Image Credit: DERMSTORE

Embracing the Curl You're In

Today, Shea Moisture the popular natural-inspired beauty brand, release a controversial product commercial video, many women with curly hair were not pleased with... As a Black woman with curly hair, I do not understand why many are upset by this video. Shouldn't ALL Women have the right to embrace their natural beauty and the skin they're in? The reason why I purchase Shea Moisture products, is not because I'm Black, it's because their products do not contain harmful ingredients are natural and organic, and better for my body. When Shea Moisture first started their, now world-wide business, they did appeal to Women of Color however, Women of Color are not the only ones on this planet with textured hair. I may be in the minority however, I stand with Shea Moisture's decision to market their products to ALL Women. If you support different causes such as, Black Lives Matter, All Lives Matter, #LoveWins, and many others, how can you not support all women of different races, cultures, and ethnic backgrounds with curly hair?

Photo | Video Credit: Shea Moisture (Facebook page) and YouTube Video found here.

This post was edited on May 11, 2017 for clarity and accuracy. 

My Favorite Makeup Products + Tips & Secrets

Hi dolls, 

I want to share with you all some of my all-time favorite makeup products. Now that summer is coming to an end, I will be starting to wear makeup again more often. During the summer, my skin tends to be more oilier than usual therefore, I avoid the whole 'dolling' up process. My makeup and technique, is pretty simple in my opinion. I usually wear lip gloss/balm, lipstick (occasionally), eyeshadow, eyeliner, blush (this was my "thing' about a year ago), and mascara (occasionally). I typically do a subtle to dramatic smokey eye day or night.

Janelle Monae is named the newest spokemodel and face for Cover Girl

Source:

Grammy nominated R&B/soul songtress Janelle Monae is named one of the newest spokesmodels, to represent Cover Girl. The 26 year old is a ravishing beauty, and is known for her beautiful coif mane and androgynous style. Janelle will debut her 10-page advertisement spread in the September issue of Vogue magazine next month. I think Janelle Monae, 
is a inspiration for young girls to be themselves, while having fun with fashion. Congrats Ms. Monae!

Source:

Maple Holistics Tea Tree Shampoo Review

I'm an avid believer of using products with natural and organic ingredients, this has been my mantra since 2012. When I was a younger, I never paid attention to what I was eating and what I was putting on my hair and skin. Once I entered my 20s, I was more observant and aware of the harmful chemicals placed in cosmetics. Cruising the beauty aisle of Whole Foods, gives me some type of thrill that fills my body with excitement. I love trying out new beauty products that are backed by nature. 

Back in October 2017, the Maple Holistics company sent me their Tea Tree Shampoo to test out. I want to deeply apologize to Maple Holistics, for not getting this review up sooner, as promised. I am here to give my honest opinion of this wonderful shampoo, that has saved my current hair regimen. In the last quarter of last year, I've became extremely lazy with washing my hair. In case, you didn't know I have curly African-American hair. In the past 4 months, I have been washing my hair 

occasionally ever 2 weeks. Normally, I'm a co-wash girl, and I clarify my hair once a month with Apple Cider Vinegar. The Maple Holistics, Tea Tree Shampoo has replaced my ACV, and this shampoo does not dry my hair out. I love the tingling sensation of the Tea Tree oil in this product.

When I was my hair every 2 weeks this shampoo is a lifesaver! My scalp is usually a little drier than normal now due to the winter weather. My scalp most importantly feels revitalized, and that's what I look for in a shampoo. I like to use my fingers to massage the product into my scalp, and I only lather once, which is all my hair needs to get rid of build up and residue. The key ingredients in this product are tea tree, rosemary, lavender, and most importantly it's sulfate-free.

Once again, I thank Maple Holistics, for sending my their product to try out on my hair. The Tea Tree Shampoo will become an integral product for me to use when I need to clarify my hair.  The Tea Tree Shampoo, retails for $25.00 however, you can find it for $8.95 on their website. Maple Holistics products can also be found and purchased on Amazon. 

If you sign up for e-mail notifications from Maple Holistics, you can be notified about how to receive free products and samples, which is pretty cool! 

Disclaimer: This blog post is sponsored, and I was sent this product free to try however, my thoughts and opinions are openly honest. 

You Glow Differently When You're Happy

In the midst of a National and Global crisis, I am grateful and truly blessed, for life, health, and happiness! A pandemic is not a term to use loosely or lightly. We are forced to foster a new way of life and to live a new normal (depending on how that resonates for you). In the age of social distancing and being self-quarantined, I have learned to remain calm, grounded, and staying aligned with my life's purpose. 

Something I wrote back in March, which reminds me of my purpose and allows me to continuously find my light in all given aspects of my life is "Without knowing your purpose you're not in alignment with your true self. When you're not in alignment, you're not fully embracing your true purpose!" - Mel.

Since the beginning of 2020, I've been in new energy, which has allowed me to balance feminine and masculine energy, while stepping into divine femininity. We're only a few months into 2020, and I've learned how to become my own healer, while gaining a newfound level of confidence in my own right. 

I struggled with  hormonal + cystic acne for the past 2-3 year, and it mysteriously it came out of nowhere, and I hated breaking out 24/7. During this time, I felt very insecure about the current state of my skin, which was evidently linked to my diet, and gut health. I changed the way I ate. I began using skin care products, and tools meant to target and treat acne, while improving skin texture. Today, I can proudly say, I haven't had acne or large cystic break outs in the past 3 months. This partial the result of seeing an aesthetician and sticking to my home care routine + at home LED Light Therapy, which I love! Sugaring, as in waxing has literally saved my life and time. When I have my sugaring sessions, it's my time to disconnect, think, not think, relax, and just float into space. 

I finally learned how to take selfies and my own head shots like a #BOSSBABE, and I literally glow from the inside out now. I've gained a small following on both of my social media accounts, one which is personal, and the other for She Who Grinds. She Who Grinds is constantly growing each day, and I haven't even launched the actual website yet (baby steps). My dream and goal is to become a professional writer and career coach/motivator full time. I love the beauty industry and how it has evolved into an inclusive multifaceted marketplace. My career is still emerging and growing as a 30-something millennial therefore, I've gained a lot of tips and tricks of the trade, while surviving and 'making it' in the corporate world. 

I'm literally growing out of my shell and becoming more of a care-free, bubbly, and outgoing individual. I've been using my COVID-19 time to consume career-based content. I've joined the Create Cultivate, community for $10.00 (annually), due to a special they were running in light of the pandemic. I also purchased a new book called Work Party by Jaclyn Johnson founder and CEO of Create Cultivate. Girl Boss by Sophia Amoruso is always on my bookshelf, and I probably read it about 15 times, since the book released. Books and podcasts are very important for me to consume at this time, especially if you want to stay motivated in your career/profession or a budding entrepreneur. Right now is the perfect time and opportunity to invest in yourself, your dreams, and goals. You don't have to spend tons of money, there's plenty of online resources, tutorials, and e-courses that are free to eager minds.

A slow down in the economy does not place your dreams on hold or in self-quarantine. Use your time at home (or in the office) to create the perfect work life balance! Honestly, I'm more balanced + centered than ever before. I like to choose wellness over being burned out, and having the right amount of flexibility in my work day. I'm much happier, when I am in total control over my life, while maintaining my peace!