Tag: Product Reviews

Trashy Talk: My Final Impressions

Published on by Kadi3 Comments

Hey Passionista Hey!

I think June was the last edition of my “Trashy Talk” sessions, so I’ve been collecting empty products to share with y’all. You know the drill, go ahead and grab some snacks and a glass of wine to read this post. It’s gonna be a long one … Get Ready! Get Ready! Get Ready!

Like always, I will only be hyperlinking the brands or products that were previously sponsored. I’m not giving no free promo over her. So if you see a product that is linked, click it just because you love and support me. 

Let’s start with the Home Decor and Candles ….

My Home Decor Diffuser from Kroger finally gave out on me. I think I’ve had this thing for about 2 years. I found it on sale at Kroger for less than$15 (I think). I really wish I could find this same one again. I’ve looked everywhere, even Amazon doesn’t have it. I loved the way it diffused my oils and filled my room with greatness. Not to mention is it super cute and goes with the decor my living room. It has a light feature, so at night then I am winding down it also served as a lamp for me.

The White Barn Mahogany Teakwood High Intensity scented candle is one of my favorite candles to collect from Bath and Body Works. I love the intense scent of rich mahogany and dark oak with a hint of lavender. I normally stock up on these candles during the $8 candle sale annually. I think I purchased like 4 of these during the last sale. This was the last of my stash, so I’ll be in line to get more of my Mahogany Teakwood come this year’s sale.

The White Barn Fresh Cut Lilacs scented candle is a new scent for me. I’m more of a must and natural oak type girl, but the soft spring airy scent was not too bad. I enjoyed burning it. It made a great addition to my shower routine. But I don’t know if I will be repurchasing this candle scent.

Now this Candle- Lite Company Vetiver Oakmoss scented candle is another Kroger sale find. It was less than $5 and it’s true what they say, you get what you pay for. This candle doesn’t have a strong scent. You can barely smell it when you enter the room. Do not recommend!!!

Let’s keep those hands washed ….

I got the Pure Haven’s Body sugared pink grapefruit moisturizing hand soap in a Instagram giveaway. This product is 100% free of toxins and super hydrating to the skin. You know often times washing your hands dry your skin out and leaves you needing lotion after every wash. I’m normally not a fan of grapefruit scented products, but this pink grapefruit coconut scent was very light and pleasant. Now that I have experienced Pure Haven products, I think I might purchase more of their products for my self care pleasure.

I fill my diffuser with Ambi Escents Balancing Essential Oil mixed with a mint based oil. I also like to put a drop inside my face mask to help with easy breathing while out and about wearing a mask. These essential oils are great for diffusers and adding to your natural cleaning products. I’ve repurchased this particular brand several times, after finding it in Kroger. I was able to repurchase it from Amazon.

It’s all about clear skin and clean beauty ….

Now if you’ve been following my content for a while, you know I love Formula 10.0.6 products. I’ve been using the One Smooth Operator Pore Clearing Face Scrub from Ulta Beauty at least once a week or every other week for about 2 years now. The scrub is very gentle and leaves my skin feeling smoother and gets rid of dead skin. I really feel the impurities bring drain out of my skin with the oatmeal and zinc. I don’t have oily skin but this formula still leaves my skin feeling and looking good, yet shine free. I follow up with moisturizer after using this face scrub to rehydrate my skin. For only $6.99 I like to keep one on deck for when I run out.

For someone who doesn’t get much sleep, yet needs to stay camera ready the iwi fresh Cucumber to the Rescue eye cream is a award winning product for me. I love that product is 100% natural and made with fresh cucumbers. Just a few dots of product under each eye every morning really hydrates the skin and give you a awaken look that will last all day. I received this product in a PR package but for $22.50 I really need to re-purchase this product to keep it in my daily skincare routine.

I didn’t know that carrots has so many skincare benefits, this iwi fresh 14 Carrot Glow face cream really helps to nourish the skin from within if used twice a day like the directions say. I received this product in a PR package but for $35.50 I have already repurchase this product and continue to use it daily. I’m not going to lie, I do not use it twice a day but it is a part of my daily skincare routine and I feel the difference from using this product vs. other products.

The iwi fresh Squash it Out cleanser gets a 10 out of 10 from me. When you want to revitalize dull, tired skin add some squash to your skincare routine. I can’t explain how, but this cleanser has really helped keep my skin looking and feeling it’s best even when I didn’t feel my best on the inside.

Sweet Potato are my favorite vegetable, so why not put it on your skin. iwi fresh Sweet Potato Skin Tone face serum has the power to really soften and nourish the skin. I apply just a few drop all over my face after washing my face daily. Not only does it feel amazing, it leaves my skin looking amazing and hydrated throughout the day. I received this product in a PR package and it was 1 of 3 different serum in a pack. Now that I have used this one up I am currently using another oil from the 3 pack. I would highly recommend using these serum on a daily basis. I plan to purchase this on my own.

Y’all know I am a big fan of toners. I use them daily. The iwi fresh Lettuce-Face-It face toner is a special delight, I like that the product comes packaged in a spray bottle. I just this toner several times a day to improve the moisture levels of my skin when needed. I’m not sure if it makes any difference but I definitely used this toner for more than just my face. After coming in from outside on a hot summer day, a cool few sprays of this toner all over my skin feels like paradise.

***All iwi fresh products are made with fresh vegetables and herb. They are a sustainable company, so they offer a discount to all customers who bring back their product jars to replenish products.

I received the Ultra Beauty Full Coverage Concealer in a Influenster VoxBox for a campaign. I’m no makeup guru or anything but I like how easy it was to use this product. I don’t really know how to contour my face. But I am good for a good under eye highlight. I used the color Deep Warm to highlight my under eye area when doing my make up for shooting content. Filming and content days are about the only days I wear makeup. I think this product lasted for about 6 to 9 months, I might have used it once a week on average. I love how creamy it is and easy to blend with or without foundation. Often times when my skin is clear and flourishing I don’t wear foundation, I just highlight under the eyes and add everything else for the look I’m going for. Ultra Beauty will has a great brand of products. I could see myself purchasing this product on my next trip to Ulta.

My newest favorite gloss is Fenty Beauty Glow Gloss Bomb. I think I have shared with y’all before in a empties. Because this is definitely now my first gloss from Fenty Beauty. And you all ready know I have repurchased it. I can’t go with out my Fenty Beauty gloss. I love how long lasting that gloss is. It’s super rich and leaves my lips looking sooooooooo kissable. For Fall I am trying the Hot Chocolit flavor.

Now, girls I have some “that time on the month” favorites ….

There is nothing that I don’t like about The Honey Pot Herbal Infused Pantyliners. They have this mint cooling sensation that makes the experience of wearing them daily feel good. I love that they are 100% plant based with no chlorine, pesticides, and fragrances. I even enjoy the calming lavender and nothing aloe that infused into the liners. If you have not tried The Honey Pot products I highly recommend you experience them.

I prefer tampons over pads, but pads are good to wear at night. I have added The Honey Pot Herbal Infused Pads with wings to my period must haves because they are 100% plant based and infused with mint, lavender and aloe. The experience of wearing them is truly something I had never felt before yet enjoyable. I would say they are not sticky enough for me. Sometime I experience them shifting in my underwear when doing daily actives. I would recommend these pads as a overnight solution when on your period.

I absolutely hate using baby wipes “down there”. Baby wipes are just no absorbent and shouldn’t be flushed- so that doesn’t work for my needs. But I discovered the biodegradable wipes in target, Goodwives Down There Wipes with Rose Water and they do a great good getting the job done of keeping these clean “down there” lol. I love that they offer a individually wrapped packets. Each wipe is moist and large enough to use only one each visit to the restroom. I put them in my car, my purse and in my travel bag. So you already know I have several of these boxes on standby.

Y’all know I stay with the hair products ….

Honestly I don’t know what this iwi fresh Lavender Throwback Curls is made of but I love it. I mainly used the gel formula as a curl cream for my twists and twist out styles. When I tell you this product never fails with giving me juicy twist and curls. I love how fluffy and whipped the gel feels. It even really smells like Lavender.

I received Moisture Love’s Deep Indulgence Replenishing Conditioner in a PR package months ago, it came with the whole product line. I used all the product maybe 3 or 4 times before I ran out of the conditioner. The hair washing experience with Moisture Love is very gentle and soft. After the first time using the product I couldn’t believe how soft and moisturized my curls felt with no product in it (after washing and deep conditioning). I am a naturalist that like to use the matching shampoo and conditioner when washing my hair and the same line of style products when styling my hair. So, It sucks that I ran out of conditioner before I ran out of shampoo and styling products. Because now I’m less likely to finish using the other products. I wish this conditioner was offer in a bigger size than the 8oz bottle so that it would last longer.

I was selected for a Tik Tok campaign when I was sent Originals Africa’s Best Coconut Creme Leave in Conditioner and Coconut Creme Restorative Conditioner. After using these product once I feel in love with them. They left my hair feeling like baby hair soft. I couldn’t keep my hand out go my hair. I think I got about 4 to 5 usages out of each on of the products. I wish I had the shampoo to go along with the duo. But the next time I’m in need of conditioner and leave in and have to buy some, I could see myself purchasing these products. If you have dry and ruff curls with lots of tangles, I highly suggest these products to her soften your curls.

Before you go, share with me if you have ever tried any of these products I reviewed today, and what was your experience with them.

XOXO

Dismiss the discomfort of your period!

Published on by KadiLeave a comment

Hey Passionista!

I’m all about good vaginal health and finding comfort during that time of the month. A few years ago, I stopped buying Always and Kotex products because of the unreported harmful ingredients in their products. I started using organic (100% cotton) pads and tampons. My current favorite brand of pads, tampons and liners is The Honey Pot. But I was recently introduced to a new brand that helps relieve the discomfort of your period.

NannoPad has nannogenic technology infused in their pads and tampons. Now when I first read this on the packaging of the product, my first thought was “why does a pad need technology?” But I think that’s just a fancy word that a group of marketing folks thought would help sell the product. But from my understand the all natural nannogenic “technology” is infused into the pads to improve blood circulation and thus, helps in relieving menstrual discomfort. Luckily, I don’t cramp much during my time of the month. I mostly cramp or feel discomfort on the first day of my period or when I’ve gone long periods of time without eating.

I tried the NannoPad pads and liners for about an month. I would say the experience was good. Nothing out of the norm happened. I didn’t experience any cramping while wearing them either. I like that the pads are ultra absorbent because I did notice a slightly heavier flow than I’m used to, but I figured that was from the blood circulation benefits of these pads.

NannoPad is the first innovative menstrual pads developed to help relieve menstrual discomfort naturally with no drugs or medications! It is made with certified organic cotton, as thin as a nickel with up to 180ml absorbency.

These pads are ultra absorbent , extra breathable, super thin, controls odor, relives discomfort, and are free from chemical, dyes, and fragrance.

If you looking for a product that helps relieve the discomfort of your period without taking any drug or meditation, I recommend you try the multipack, which contains 18 pantyliners, 12 regular pads, and 6 super pads.

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Okay! When I first learned about Nannocare products that are infused with nannogenic technology, my first thought was “why does a pad need technology?” But after experiencing them I figure the word “technology” is a word some marketing executive thought would be a great selling point for this product. @nannocare NannoPads help to improve blood circulation which helps relieve your menstrual discomfort without drugs and meditations during that time of the month. Visit the blog to read my full review on this product and talk more about our periods. P.S. I’m still practicing with these Reels 😂 #periodproblems #nannocare #girlpower #blogger #influencer #atlantablogger #myperiodandme #re

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I received this product complimentary in exchange for my honest review. Thank you NannoCare for allowing my the opportunity to experience this all natural remedy.

How To Make Money As A Blogger & Influencer: LadyBossBlogger Course Final Review+ Giveaway Announcement

Published on by Kadi2 Comments

Hey Passionista-

Okay, so in my last blog I introduced y’all to this new course I am taking by LadyBossBlogger. If you haven’t read that blog post, stop here and go back to read it then come back.

Now, I finally finished the course and I’m excited to share my final thoughts with you and announce the giveaway winner FREE influencer the course. Thanks to LadyBossBlogger + Elaine Rau for sponsoring this post.

First things first, I have to admit it took me longer than expected to complete the course because its all text based. I thought it would be video to watch. But I motivated to complete the course it provided so much valuable information I need to know as a influencer. My daily schedule is filled with work stuff but I was sure to keep scheduling time for me to complete this course and implement new techniques to my blogging routine.

Y’all blogging and trying to be a influencer is hard. No, it’s not rocky science but it’a lot of work. Sometimes I tend to make the process harder for myself, but this course taught me a few ways I could make things easier on myself. I committed to changing a few things I had been doing for years, and adding a few new things to my process, which landed my a paid brand deal with Africa’s Best Hair Care and increase of traffic to my website.

One thing that I started doing that I wasn’t doing before is posting on Pinterest. Just by simply sharing the same pictures in each blog post on Pinterest with links to the blog URL increased my website traffic in days. I went from 4k views on Pinterest to 8.9K views in one week. I went back and pinned blog post from last year that drove more traffic and views to those old posts.

NOW…. one of my lucky instagram followers will win a FREE LadyBossBlogger course.

Congrats Savanna Wilson– you won the @ladybossblogger giveaway! To claim your prize, post a photo of yourself on your feed talking about winning the course and tag @ladybossblogger and @elainerau in both the caption and the photo itself. Next, email ladybossblogger@gmail.com the link to your post and let them know which course you’d like.

I enjoyed this course so much that I have collaborated with LadyBossBlogger to offer y’all 40% off any course. The courses are $397, however with promo code KHADIJAH the course is only $238.20 for you.

Simple click the link and use promo code KHADIJAH to take advantage of this offer.

The links in this posts are affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the items, I will receive a affiliate commission at no cost to you.

Trashy Talk: My Final Impresssions

Published on by Kadi5 Comments

Hey Passionista!

It’s been a while since I’ve done a “Trashy Talk” post. So, go ahead and get your snacks and wine to read this post (I’m drinking Rosa Obscura Red Blend), cause its going to be al long one.

Before we get started, I will only be hylinking the brands or products that maybe sponsored. I’m not giving no free promo over her. So if you see a product that is linked, click it just because you love me.

  1. I often buy my deep treatments and hair mask in little packets. I honestly don’t know why, lol. Maybe, its the size if the packets that attract me. I’m sure its not saving any money by buying the packet over a full sized product. I normally pick these up in Dollar General or Walmart for about $1.50 each. I grab a few every time I’m in the store. I love Cantu, it does wonders for my curls. The deep treatment hair masque really restores my curls with moisture every time I use it.
  2. My hair can get really frizzy and look dry but not really be dry. So I’m always looking for products that help control my frizz issues and keep my hair feeling and LOOKING moisturized. Kurlee Belle’s Banana Nut & Avocado Deep Treatment is so creamy and thick yet works into your curls really well. The creamy consistency is kindof lumpy, I feel like it really helps the formula condition my curls from root to ends. I received this product from a brand deal earlier this year, but I will definitely be purchasing this product and a few others from this line to add into my hair wash rotation.
  3. I’d been wanting to try the 1-minute hair mask by Garnier Fructis for al while, but I didn’t purchase it until I couldn’t find the conditioner I went in the store to buy on the shelf. I was in Walmart (they never have what I need on shelf), thought it would be the best time if never to try it. I think the 3.4oz jar is like $2.99. But I don’t know if it really works because I left it in my hair for longer than 1 minute. I will say that my hair was soft and easy to detangle after rinsing the product out after life 30 minutes. I plan to buy it again and really challenge myself to condition my hair for 1 minute.
  4. I just love everything about Make It Classy. Not only do they offer DIY Beauty kits, they now sell pre- prepared products. I got chance to try the Blissful Brooklyn Hair Conditioner by participating in a campaign they sponsored in May. I thought that the jar was small and that I would it all in one day. But I was surprised that I was able to get 3 usages from the 8oz jar. It has peppermint essential oils in it, so you know it smells blissful. I will be purchasing this product to add to my rotation.
  1. There’s this little discount store I discovered called, Ollie’s. I found a ProX by Olay Advanced Cleansing System for only $7.99. I have been in love with this tool since the day I first used it. I don’t use it everyday but I like to use it at least 3 times a week with my foam cleaners.
  2. I am a advocate for unscented skincare and body care product. I don’t link you should be fragrance chemical on your body. So I fell in love when I discovered Smartly Unscented Facial Cleansing Wipes at Target. I think Smartly is a brand name, maybe a store brand. There a whole product line of skincare and body stuff in Target. I haven’t found this brand anywhere else. And the products are really cheap but good. Like these wipes were $2.99 (Maybe $3.99, can’t remember, it’s been a while). these are honestly my new favorite wipes so I will be buying more.
  3. I love using rose water on my skin. If a product has rose water in it, I’m going to buy it just because. ULTA beauty ran a sale about the holidays for buy 1 get 1 50% off of Garnier SkinActive products. That’s when I discovered the Micellar Makeup Removing Towlettes. I like them but I have other favorites when it comes to make up remover wipes. So if there are not on sale, I mostly won’t repurchase them.
  4. I use toners to help keep my skin balanced and to actively prevent breakouts (if you didn’t know, now you know). iwifresh Lettuce Face It Toner is a clean beauty products made from vegetables with no harm chemicals. My skin is always hydrated by a facial mist and this one is definitely a favorite. iwifresh promotes sustainability, so they allow you to reuse your packaging. They actually encourage it. So I’ll be saving my bottle for my refill the next time I next the Garden Day Spa on 341 Nelson Street, Atlanta, GA.,
  5. People are always telling me I’m glowing. My glowing skin comes from iwifresh 14K Carrot Moisturizer. Its something about fresh juiced carrots that keeps my skin glowing. Its also a natural sunblock (WINNNNIIINNNNNNGGGGGG!!!!). I don’t even think you have to ask, I will be saving my container to get more that next time I’m at iwifresh.
  6. My first introduction to facial mist was with Little Barn Apothecary Coconut + Pear Refreshing Mineral Mist. I got this product in a swag bag from a launch party hosted by Macy’s months back. The beauty guru at the event, suggested putting your face mist in the fridge to keep them cool for when your ready to use them. I started doing that with this product and fell in love with this product and cool face misting. I started off with the travel size, I’ve already updated to the 8oz.
  7. I strive to use all clean beauty product and skin care products on my skin. I’ve been told my many that Biossance is as clean as beauty products can get. So I was excited to try the Squalene + Peptide Eye Gel. I can’t say that I saw any results from using this product cause I normally don;t use an eye gel. I received this product in a VoxBox from Influenster. But now that I know about Biossance I do have a little collection of other clean beauty product.
  1. Kroger always have the deals y’all. I found Tom’s of Maine Natural Moisturizing Body Wash Creamy Coconut on woohoo! sale for $2.99. I was drawn to buy it because the bottle states its has a natural fragrance. Y’all know I’m a huge fan of FRAGRANCE FREE products. I was interested trying a product with no chemical fragrance yet still has a scent. It honestly just smell like my coconut oil for cooking. The formula is very milky but not soapy. I only bought it cause it was on sale, nothing I plan on repurchasing.
  2. I DO NOT use lotion. I prefer body oils on my skin after taking shower. I prefer essential oils as my natural fragrance rather than chemical fragrance. My favorite oils ti use are by Dr. Teal’s. I find them in Kroger and Target for $4.99. I grab a few everything I’m in the store.
  3. My life has changed since I discovered The Honey Pot. Remember I said I strive to use only clean beauty products. Well, The Honey Pot makes a plant based feminine normal wash that works wonders. The directions tell you to use clean hands to cleanse yourself instead of a wash rag. It takes your feminine care to a whole other level. (You’re welcome, Ladies). I have several of these 2oz bottles, they are great for travel. But I also have the full size 8oz.
  4. I honestly stumbled across a Aveeno Moisturizing Bar. I have been using Aveeno body wash for years and never seen a FRAGRANCE FREE soap bar before. I use it after shaving my body. I wish I would have purchases more than 1 when I found it in Kroger. Now overtime I go back to buy more its never on shelf.
  5. I normally don’t like creams that I have to rub into my skin by the Camille Rose Cherry Truffle Whipped Buttercream feels like butter on the skin. Its really thick and almost feel sticky, but as you rub it on the skin it actually feels so soft. You actually see if melt on your skin and absorb so well into your skin, really conditioning your skin.
  1. White Barn Cactus Blossom Candle is literally my new favorite candle scent. I still love me some Black Tie, But it something about this scent that makes me smile.
  2. I use the Scentsy Authentic Scents Bergamot in my diffuser. I buy a 6 pack of essential oils just for my diffuser and Bergamot is one of the scents. I like to diffuse this scent during the day, then switch it up at night.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means that I may receive a commission if you make a purchase using these links at no additional cost to you.

Before you go…

I want to do my part as a influencer to highlight Black Owned and Women Owned Businesses. I now have a P.O. Box for brands to send in product for a social media product review post. Tell a black owned or women owned business owner you know.

Mailing Address:

575 Olympic Drive

P.O. Box 80853

Athens GA 30601

Trashy Talk: My Final Impressions

Published on by Kadi4 Comments

Hi Passionista!

It’s been a while since I’ve written a empty product blog, but I’ve been collecting empty products. And I have a lot of them, so this is going to be a long post. Go ahead and grab you a snack while you read and escape the madness of this coronavirus outrage for a moment.

Taliah Waajid Green Apple & Aloe Nutrition Curl Definer

It’s something about this thick creamy curl formula that makes my curls more defined and my twist out longer lastings. One of the major benefits of this product is being able to use it daily without producing a overwhelming amount of product build up. The green apple nutrients in the formula helps strengthen and balance pH levels for optimal hair and scalp health. This curl definer is definitely a hair essential for me now.

Taliah Waajid Green Apple & Aloe Nutrition Apple Seed Oil

This apple seed oil give my hair life! So, this oil is a major key when it comes to doing the LOC method for a wash n’ go. It really sealing the deal to help hold your product in place to give you them popping’ curls you desire. I love that this oil is some nutrient rich with sweet almond oil, avocado oil, organ oil, and bergamot oil. I’m a little heavy handed with applying oil to my hair on a daily basis, because I hate dry looking curls. So, I should have purchased more than one of these 4 fl oz bottles. I like the screw top tip on the bottle so that you can apply product directly to your scalp. I personally don’t ever apply oils directly to my scalp, I like to pour it in my hands first and finger comb it into my hair. I think this bottle lasted through 4 hair styles, so about 4-5 weeks before I was completely out of it. This is a product I don’t mind spending my own money to purchase and re-purchase.

As a small business owner myself, I try to always support black women owned businesses whenever I can. These 2 items were my first introduction to this brand and I’m hooked. I recently posted a video on my Instagram using these products and the CEO saw my video and loved it so they sent me a few more products to try. Blessings!

I purchased both Taliah Waajid products at the Curls, Kinks, and Coils Festival in Atlanta, GA they were $10 each.

Shea Moisture Coconut & Cactus Water Pick Me Up Lite Masque

This hair masque has become one of my favorites to deep condition my hair. It just really leaves my curls feeling amazingly soft and smelling fresh. You really don’t have to let the product sit in your hair super long to see results in your curls. The directions say to leave it in for 5 minutes then rinse with cold water and if you follow those steps you will see a softer distance in your curls. I wish it came in a larger package size than 8 oz. I think I get like 3 to 4 usages out of this 8 oz. jar because I’m really heavy handed with applying product to my hair.

Shea Moisture 100% Virgin Coconut Oil Daily Hydration Conditioner

This conditioner is great during the summer or hotter month of the year, when you just want to wet your hair to refresh your curls overtime you leave the house. I mostly used this product to refresh curls from a wash n’ go every other day. I think the coconut oil and coconut milk ingredients helped my curls remain smoother and softer longer. If I’m being honest I hate the packaging, the label design is cute and fresh looking. But this “pump” is horrible. The finger pump is super hard to press. It literally takes 2 hands to pump product out and when you’re in the mist of doing your hair, you’re hand are already slippery. It’s really annoying. Also the straw inside the bottle is too small for such a thick formula, so at a certain pump its slow pumping out. At one point, I added water to the formula to loosen it up a bit so that I can use the rest of the product. I don’t plan on repurchasing this product until they change the packaging.

Shea Moisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Conditioner

This conditioner is another on that is great for the summer months. I found it to be very greasy and the formula was super thick. It made my curl feel a little stiff, I like it when my curls shake and move when I move. But I did find benefits in using this conditioner during the times I was going swimming multiple times a week. we all know pool water can be damaging to natural hair, but this conditioner help protect my hair from breaking during pool session. Just like the other product I mentioned, I hate the packaging. There is a corner of product left in the bottle that I’m just over trying to get out of the bottle to use. I feel like I’m throwing product away but I’m sick of trying to force it out.

Shea Moisture Coconut Custard Make it Last Wash N’ Go Shampoo and Conditioner

Aside from my HATING the packaging of this duo, I love love love the Make it last/ Wash n Go line. The I feel you, you couldn’t tell me my wash n’ go styles weren’t popping’ this summer, honey! I can’t wait for this heat to heat so I can start back rocking my wash n’ go style. I think the plant peptides in the formula really works to coat every curl on your head for the best results you’ve experienced in a wash n’ go. I literally hated doing a wash n’ go style before being introduced to this product, Now, I can’t get enough of this entire product line.

Each of these products were sent to me by Shea Moisture in my SheaBassador monthly boxes.

Aunt Jackie’s Curls & Coils Coco Repair Deep Conditioner

Curl friend, you should be using s deep conditioner every time you wash your hair. You don’t have to let it set for hours, but at least 5 to 10 minutes overtime you wash your hair. This repair creme not only smells amazing but really nourishes my curls from roots to ends. It’s very affordable and effective. I think I purchased this from Walmart for $5 or $6 and I was able to use it at least 5 wash days.

Pantene Gold Series Hydrating Butter- Creme

Honestly, I loved this butter creme formula when I first bought it. But after using it maybe 2 times I was then introduced to other curls creams and this one got kind of pushed to the back of my product shelve until I was out of all the other stuff again and needed a curl cream to style my hair. I was actually surprised that Pantene had a natural hair product txt I actually enjoyed using on my hair to do a protective style. I purchased it in Kroger for less than $10. I would re-purchase this product eventually.

Carol’s Daughter Wash Day Delight Water-to-Foam Shampoo

This is a natural hair game changer! if you have not tried this shampoo, please go buy it and try it. I was a little concerned about trying it when I first received the product but after using it the first time I fell in love with it. The packaging is perfect. the screw top lid really helps your apply the product direct to your scalp so that you are able to really cleanser your scalp from all the product residue and build up. I received this product free in a Voxbox from Influenster.

Camille Rose Lavender Shaken Hair Spirtzer

This spritzer is a hair refresher and detangling spray. It became apart of my daily rotation of products to refresh my curls. I love the bottle design, the spray trigger is super easy to use with 1 hand to spray directly onto your hair. I purchased this product during the World’s Natural Hair show last year and it lasted a fairly long time considering how often I used it.

Victoria’s Secret Tease Parfum

I’m not a big fan of expensive perfume. Honestly, I’ve never owned a expensive perfume. All of my scents come from Victoria’s Secret and Tease is my favorite scent. I love that they have these roll on sticks. I literally keep this thing in my purse for on the go moments.

Biossance Rose Vegan Lip Balm

This lip balm is extremely hydrating and leave my lips feeling like satin and looking luscious and kissable. I apply lip balm like every hour of the day, so this little tube of product didn’t really last a complete month. I received it from a VoxBox from Influenster, but I don’t think I could afford to purchase it at regular costs.

The Honey Pot Company Normal Foaming Wash

I’m so glad the honey pot is now a part of my life. This feminine wash the perfect wash for me. I’ve been needing this all my life and didn’t even know it. The formula is foam and plant based. It has allowed me have a well balanced pH level all month long. I love the label and packaging, its great for travel and the pump is easy to handle with one hand in the shower. I think 1 bottle lasts me at least a month and a half, sometimes 2 months. I have re-purchsed this several times, just so I have stock of it so I never run out when I need it most. the first time I purchased it, I was in Target for $8.99 but when I went back a month later to purchase it again, it was sold out. So I started ordering all my honey pot essential directly from their website.

Aveeno Positively Radient Micellar Gel Cleanser Makeup Remover

I’m a sucker for micellar water and gels. So this cleanser has been my go to cleanser for a while now. When talking about skincare and what I use on my face, I am always telling people about this product. I have been in love with Aveeno skincare products for a while now. I plan on re-purchasing this after I use my other Aveeno cleanser. The brand actually gifted me this product to try and review back before the summer.

Shea Moisture Coconut & Cactus Water Quench & Refresh Body Scrub

If you can remember, my February blog posts were all about exfoliation. It is super important to exfoliate your skin. The refresh body scrub is gentle and made with your skin in mind. I use this scrub before and after I shave or wax to keep my skin feeling smooth and free of ingrown hairs. This product will be a essential in my body scrub rotation.

Shea Moisture Tranquility Candle

I received this candle in a SheaBassador box and it has become a key player in my weekly self care routine, It smells amazing and I’m sad it’s all burnt out because I don’t think you can buy it anywhere.

White Barn Black Tie Candle

Hands down my favorite candle scent ever. Every year when Bath and Body Works hosts it’s annual candle sale, I’m sure to get as many of this scent as I can. It’s a seasonal scent but I love to burn it all year around.

Skincare| Exfoliate For What?

Published on by KadiLeave a comment

Hey Passionista!

I am on a mission to share the importance of exfoliating your face and body. Everyone should exfoliate their skin weekly. Women and Men. So ladies, share your body scrubs with your bae.

Exfoliating evens your skin tone.

Exfoliating helps remove dead skin cells.

Exfoliating prevents breakouts.

Exfoliating improves skin texture.

Exfoliating gives you smoother skin.

Practice exfoliating your face and body at least once a week. Body scrubs are beauty products that are every inexpensive. You don’t even have to buy them. For christmas, I made body scrubs for my whole family and they loved them. I use a body scrub weekly in my skincare routine. Most importantly, I make sure I scrub my skin before and after getting waxed and shaving.

How to make your own body scrub?

Ingredients you will need: Pure Sugar Cane, Coconut Oil, and your choice of essential oils.

In a mixing bowl or jar, pour 1 cup of pure cane sugar. In a smaller bowl melt 1/2 cup coconut oil. Then mix the coconut oil and sugar together. Lastly, add a few drops of your favorite essential oils. Package in a glass jar and you at your leisure.

If you like a more liquid based scrub, add more coconut oil or olive oil.

Here are my top 5 favorite scrubs to use on my skin:

Formula 10.0.06 One Smooth Operator Pore Clearing Face Scrub

I think I’ve had this product for at least a year and it’s almost time to repurchase. If you’ve been following for a while then you’ve seen me blog about this product before. I use it at least once a week to clear my pores and get rid go that thin layer of dead skin just relaxing on the surface on my face, I love how gentle the formula is. It has jojoba seed oil in it so it leaves my skin feelings clean and soft. I still use a cleaner after scrubbing my face- but I like that the scrub doesn’t leave a dry harsh feeling to my skin. You can purchase this product at Ulta Beauty for about $6.99.

Shea Moisture Coconut & Cactus Water Quench & Refresh Body Scrub

This product is targeted for people with dehydrated skin. I like to use it in the summer time after being in the pool or ocean water when my skin feels really stressed out. The cactus water is a super food that really keeps skin moisturized. Primarily, I use this product to exfoliate the outside of my vagina before getting waxed. Ladies, if you get waxed (down there) you should be exfoliating a few days before and after. Trust me ingrown hairs on the vagina are not fun. This a product that fragrance free and gentle enough for the most sensitive areas.

Shea Moisture Coconut & Hibiscus Illuminating Hand and Body Scrub

I love the smell of this coconut and hibiscus blend. I promise you the smell along will make you want to eat the product, but please don’t. Now, I do you this scrub as a lip scrub because it feels really sandy. For some reason my lips have been drier than ever this season. So I use this on my lips a couple times a week cause I hate dry crusty lips. But I also use this product on my legs and feet after I shave.

IWI Fresh Squash Georgia Peach Ginger Body Scrub and Camille Rose Caramelized Cane and Sugar Balm

So, tell me what’s your favorite product to exfoliate your skin with?

Girl’s Spa Night with Make It Classy DIY Beauty

Published on by Kadi5 Comments

Hello Passionista!

Have you ever just needed a at home spa night? Well, I’m about to put you on to something that will change your beauty routines and turn up your self care practices.

Make It Classy delivers plant-based ingredients and step-by-step instructions needed to craft
your own chemical-free DIY beauty creations. Think of it like Hello Fresh, except it is a beauty box. The best thing about these kits is that you learn how to make your very own clean beauty products. Most of the kits makes enough product for you to use the product more than once. You also have a recipe card to keep and remake your beauty product over and over again with the purchase of the ingredients needed.

I hosted a spa night for a couples of girlfriends to enjoy. We each picked a Make It Classy kit that we wanted to make. As we sipped on Rose and talked about our week, we made some clean beauty products to care for our skin and hair. We decided to each do a clay mask from the Loyal Leah DIY Kit to deep condition with Rhassoul clay and moisturize our face.

For our spa night we made the following beauty products.

Majestic Maya – DIY Body Scrub. Each kit makes one 8oz body scrub

Loyal Leah – DIY Clay Hair + Face Mask. Each kits makes 1 hair mask or 15+ face masks.

Herbal Ebony – DIY Herbal Hair Rinse. Each kit makes 2 bottles of hair rinse.

I’ve been in love with the Make It Classy brand since I discovered them nearly a year ago. So far, I have made about 4 different kits from the brand. I love their branding and how everything is made to create a simple yet satisfying experience for the user. My favorite kit is the Rose Water toner kit. Rose water is a beauty jewel that I always wanted to try to make myself. But, I was skeptical about using store bought roses to make a beauty product because of all the peptides put on flowers through the manufacturing and distribution process. When I discover Make It Classy and the DIY Lavender Rose Water kit, I knew I would have to try it. Just to my expectation it was simple to make once you have the right ingredients.

How it works

1. Choose your DIY beauty box based on the recipe you’d like to create.

2. Add to cart and checkout

3. You’ll receive your box in the mail along with a recipe card and ingredients to create that DIY beauty product.

Thank you Make It Classy for sponsoring this blog post. Book a party and host your next girl’s night with a at home spa twist.

Lotus Essentials Review | Natural Hair

Published on by Kadi1 Comment

Hello Passionista!

Once a year I blow dry my hair and wear wand curls or something of blow dried hair style. So during the entire holiday season I did not wash my hair. I blow dried it maybe a week before Christmas and wore wand curls and flexi rod sets until after the new year. On New Year’s Day I was to excite to wash and deep condition my hair. I’m the happiest when I rock my natural curls!

To condition and style my hair, I used some new products sent to me by Lotus Essentials. Lotus Essentials is a multi-use hair and skincare company that caters to those who want healthier and hydrated hair and skin. 

My First Impression

I am big on cute packaging and at first glance I was not impressed with the Lotus Essentials brand packaging. Also, the products were not completely full when I received them. So, at first glance I was not impressed by the presentation and branding. But I was interested in trying the products.

Aloe Conditioner for Hair and Skin Review

The Aloe Conditioner can be used as a deep conditioner or as a co wash. The first time I used the product I used it as a deep conditioner. I can be a little heavy on the product when it comes to applying it to my hair. So I thought I was going to end up using the whole bottle on the first time using it. But I actually only ended up only using about half the bottle. Which was great but later in the week, I used it as a co-wash to remove some product build up and re-twist my hair for refreshed curls. I used less product when co-washing my hair because I only focused on cleaning my scalp. I still have enough product left to do one more co -wash.

Rose Milk Review

The Rose Milk provided my twist out with the bounce back it needed. Before washing my hair was really dry and my end looked harshly brittle from applying heat. So the conditioner and rose milk help restore with moisture. I used the rose milk in place of a curl creme to 2 strand twist my hair. The rose milk made the detangling and twisting process easy. Next wash day I want to try using the rose milk to do my wash n’ go styling.

These products are meant to work on hair and skin. I only tried them on my hair. I have sensitive skin and I don’t know about using them on my face. For this review only reflects my hair wash day experience.

xoxo

SheaBassador | The Final Box and Gifts

Published on by Kadi2 Comments

Hello Passionista!

Well, the time has come… the end of the SheaBassador program. I received my last box right before christmas. I’m so grateful I had this opportunity and hope for more great brand ambassador programs with Shea Moisture and other brands this year.

Because this was the last package of the year, they actually sent me 2 boxes. One was this month’s featured products and the other was a gift of random product received in previous packages. So I had the chance to stock up on some of my favorites.

Today, I decided I wanted to pamper myself and have a self care day. This is the first time this year (2020) I have actually did any self care activities. Just my luck, I have some new favorite skincare products this month’s Shea Moisture box to enjoy during my self care day.

What’s in the Box?

Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore Leave- In Conditioner

This is not my favorite leave in conditioner. But I do like that the formula is not to thick and heavy on your hair. I can’t pin point exactly what I don’t like about this conditioner. I just know it make my hair feel a way that I don’t like after washing it out. It’s not a horrible leave in conditioner but just not the one for m

Manuka Honey & Yogurt Skin renewal Recipe Body Yogurt Moisturizer

This body yogurt smells so heavenly to me. I like using it after I shave and exfoliate my skin. I feel like it really helps renew my skin with hella moisture. The formula is thick but not hard to rub in. You don’t need a lot of the product, just apply a little to each part of your body and rub it swiftly. Also, I appreciate the form of packaging this product has, very accessible.

Cannabis Sativa (Hemp) Seed Oil & Witch Hazel Skin Rescue Moisturizer

This is the first product I have used with hemp seed oil in it. I love that the formula also contains witch hazel. It doesn’t really have a smell. I wish it had some type of scent to it. It feels very light on the skin and gives me a restored glow.

100% Virgin Coconut Oil Shimmering Body Lotion

I’m not a big fan of body lotion. I prefer body oils or body butters. But I can’t stay away from the 100% virgin coconut oil scent. This product line smells amazing to me. I think this is a summer time body product. But right now I have it sitting on my desk and I used it to moisture my hands after washing them. I love to just inhale the scent after applying this product cause it smells so good.

Sugarcane Extract & Meadowfoam Seed Silicone free miracle Styler Leave in Treatment

I received this product 3 times now. The first one was a sample size, then I got a full sized one and now I have another one. Y’all know this is my favorite leave in treatment. I highly recommend this product.

Coconut & Hibiscus Illuminating Hand & Body Scrub

This is my first time using this body scrub… and baby !!!! it smells sooooo heavenly. I like to use a body scrub in the shower once a week to exfoliate my skin. Today was my first time using it and I scrubbed my body twice. The product not only smells good but it also feels really good on the skin.

Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie

This is a great product. But it is hella greasy. Luckily it’s not heavy on the hair, but it’s super greasy. I think the coconut and hibiscus line of hair products are all greasy. And maybe my texture of hair doesn’t hold or need the amount of moisture it provides. I do like my curl results when I use this product, I just don’t like the greasy stains left on my head rest and pillows. LOL

These are some more products that I received in previous boxes:

Manuka Honey & Yogurt Hydrate + Repair Shampoo

100% Virgin Coconut Oil Daily Hydration Face Lotion

100% Virgin Coconut Oil Daily Glow Priming Moisturizer

Coconut & Cactus Water Pick Me Up Lite Masque

Coconut & Cactus Water Quench & Fresh Bar Soap

Tell me, what’s your favorite Shea Moisture product?

Wine Me Down | Winc

Published on by Kadi5 Comments

Happy 2020, Passionista!

I don’t know about y’all but I’m finding it hard to get back into my daily routine after this holiday season. I don’t know what it is but by 3pm everyday I am fighting to stay awake. It’s like my energy is just completely drained mid-afternoon. So around 5 or 6pm I’m ready to wine down and call it a night. My new subscription wine box has come in handy with helping me wine down from a long exhausting day of adulting.

Winc is a wine delivery service that allows you to select 4 of your favorite types of wine and ships it to you for only $39 + complimentary shipping.

How it works?

Visit Winc.com to take the palette profile 6 question quiz. You will be given recommendations specifically to match your palette. Then, you are able to shop and select 4 bottles of wine to be shipped to you with complimentary shipping.

My 1st box shipped directly to my front door within a week of ordering. I love a Red Blend just as much as I love a Rose. Which is why I selected a red blend, a white blend, a Rose, and a Chardonnay to have a variety to fit any mood I may be in each day.

2018 Pacificana Chardonnay

2018 Passarola White Blend

2017 Rosa Obscura Red Blend

2018 Pretty Young Thing Rose

The best snack combination is red wine and kettle popcorn. If you’re a spicy girl like myself add hot cheetos in with you popcorn. Thank me later!

Tell me, What’s your favorite type of wine?