Tag: Product Reviews

Lotus Essentials Review | Natural Hair

Published on by KadiLeave a 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 KadiLeave a comment

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?

Blogmas Day 18 | My Clean Beauty Skincare Routine

Published on by KadiLeave a comment

Hello Passionista-

I was recently selected by Influenster to receive a Vox Box from the Biossance Clean Academy to kick start a new routine with these clean and sustainable goodies. Now that I have developed my clean routine I’m ready to share it with you.

First a little about Biossance.

Biossance developed a patented technology that allows them to create a accessible cure for malaria. This innovative biotechnology makes it possible for them to impact the world with clean beauty options. Using the rich history of science and sustainability, Biossance is able to create skincare that is effective and safe without harming the environment or animals. The company strives to make clean beauty the new standard.

I am a huge supporter of plant based consumer goods with non toxic or harmful chemicals and added ingredients. I’m elated to be able to share with you my new clean beauty skincare routine that has kept my skin feeling and looking well polished and hydrated.

Watch how I used each product here.

Squalane + Vitamin C Rose Mask

This gel to cream mask really transform your skin from look dull to radiant glow in 5 minutes. I like to use this mask in the morning time to start my day with a fresh clean face. 3 to 4 times a week I will apply the mask before getting in the shower then wash it away after my shower and follow up with the rose oil. The best fresh face you can curate at home.

Squalene + Peptide Eye Gel

I’m not a big fan of eye gels and never really used them before. But I’ve learned that you should take preventative measure to control puffy eyes and sagging before it actually starts. So I use this eye gel twice a week for my under eye area. Lord knows I don’t want all of my late nights and early mornings to catch up with me in the form of permanent sagging eye bags in the future.

Squalane +Omega Repair Cream

This whipped moisturizer really soothes the skin and leaves your face looking all dewy and fresh. It’s hard to accomplish a dewy look with a fresh face and no make up. So I love using this product before bed after I’ve cleaned and toned my face but also throughout the day as needed.

Squalane + Vitamin C Rose Oil

I love a good oil product for my face and body. This rose oil is meant to brighten and hydrate the skin for that natural glowing look. Not only does it hydrate the skin but it protects the skin from moisture loss. And a little bit goes a long way. I used this product at night before bed and in the morning before starting my day. It truly lasts all day and night. It give you that picture perfect rose glow.

Rose Vegan Lip Balm

This vegan lip balm packed with ceramides and hyaluronic acid. Y’all know I am big fan of anything with hyaluronic acid in it. That means that the product is water based and works to give your skin the overload of hydration it needs. I apply the lip balm before bed so I don’t wake up with crusty lips, but I also use it throughout the day when I’m not wearing lipstick.

Disclaimer: I received these products complimentary in exchange for my honest review.

Tell me, what clean beauty products are you using?

Blogmas Day 17 | My Holy Grail Feminine Products

Published on by Kadi2 Comments

Hello Passionista !

Ladies it’s time we talk about our periods…

So (any) guys reading this, you can stop right here and come back tomorrow. lol

For years we have been focused to purchase hygiene products that are made up of harmful materials that should be used on our bodies. We finally have products on the market for our periods that are safe and made with our vagina’s in mind. Just last week I went into Target and was so proud to see that the organic section of tampons and pads are growing. It was like half of the aisle. I still have an issue with the fact that Target is about the only retail store that sells organic tampons and pads, but we are slowly getting there.

I want to share with you the organic hygiene products I use and my experience with them.

I’ve covered a review on the L. brand before… click here to read. I have been using these pads in tampons for about 2 years, since I stumbled upon them in target one day. and for a while they were the only organic brand on the shelf in stores. I’m proud to see that more organic brands are taking up space on the shelf with harmless feminine hygiene products for out vaginas.

I noticed a few new things about this brand when I was last in target. Not only do they have more shelf facings in store but they have expanded their product line. There is a new variety pack of tampons that offer light, regular, and super tampons. Which is great for a girl like me who has unpredictable cycles. Every brand offers regular and super tampons but I’ve never seen light ones. Of course I tried them last month and LOVED them. Same experience as the others, no leakage and fully protected. I would say the lights are great to use on that last day or when spotting. Also, I see that the brand has launch new packaging. I was already in love with the clear pale and sustainable resealable bag but now they offer a box for different variety packs.

The Honey Pot makes herbal- infused pads with wings. They are made by humans with vaginas for humans with vaginas. I started using them about a month ago and feel in love with them. I’m not a “pads” girl. I normally use tampons but its not good to sleep with tampons, so of course I wear pads to bed. When I first put on a Honey Pot pad the feeling was unexplainable. At first I didn’t like it. I am not used to any tingling feelings down there like that. But as did some research on the company and learned more about herbal infused pads I started to understand what was going on. The pesticide free cotton is infused with essential oils that creates a cooling effect that soothes your vagina and helps with cramps and discomfort. I don’t experience cramps much, they only come that first day while I’m trying to sleep of course. Normally, I would treat a cramp with a stick on heating pad while I sleep so that I can get some good rest. But when I wore these pads I didn’t have to use my heating pad. After I got used to the cooling feeling down there I noticed I didn’t cramp at all. These pads are made up of lavender, rose, aloe vera, and mint to soothe, refresh, and reduce irriration.

I also started using the Normal Wash by The Honey Pot. This foam wash is great for washing away odor-causing bacteria and balancing your pH for long-lasting freshness and protection. We all know how important it is to maintain a normal pH balance. This formula is 100% natural and made with herbal ingredients made just for your vagina. The foaming wash is made up of coconut oil, lavender, grapefruit seed extract, apple cider vinegar and colloidal silver. And made without artificial fragrances, parabens, and sulfates. The OBGYN tells us that we should not wash with our vaginas with soaps and cleansers with fragrance, yet just about every body wash and soap has some type of scent. I use the Aveeno body wash that is fragrance free, but its not sold in all stores for some reason. I still use my regular body wash to cleanse the rest of my body. But I now use the foaming wash to cleanse my vagina. I recommend this wash to any women who doesn’t typically experience irritation or dryness and can use new products without any inflammation or sensitivity.

Goodwives are cool, convenient, and eco-friendly disposable wipes perfect for on the go use during that time on the month and others. I have been using them for a few months now. They are really good for clean up and refreshing through out the day when are on or off of your cycle. Not only do they offer feminine hygiene wipes but they offer personal care body wipes as well.

Rael Organics makes period and skincare products that are better for you and the environment. This month was my first time discovering this brand (in target) so I decided to try their panty liners. They are so small and compact yet thick enough to absorb a lot. I gave away all my always liners so I could start using and continue to use these.

Tell me, What feminine hygiene brands are you using?

Blogmas Day 15 |Beauty Products I’ll be leaving in 2019

Published on by KadiLeave a comment

Hello Passionista-

It is no secret that I am a product junkie. Most of you come here just to see what products I am using on my face and hair, or to read my reviews before purchasing a product. First things first, thank you for using me as your beauty resource. But, today I want to keep it real about a few products that just haven’t been working for me.

Often times I buy products to try based off go industry trends and not so much of a personal need or desire. And I always get samples and products from brands to try and review. Not everything makes it to the blog but I try my best to give my honest opinion and review to most of all the products I try. One of my goals next year is to do more social media post of product reviews and leave blog post for most creative content. So Stay Tuned, Girl!

As I was doing some end of year cleaning, I created a basket of products that I need to just let go of. Not because they didn’t work or wasn’t good for me but for various reasons. As a influencer I try so many products and not all of them can be apart of my everyday/ weekly line up. So some of them I really do only try once or for a week or 2 to give a review and then they get pushed in a closet somewhere, lol.

Body Products

Face Products

I thought about doing a giveaway, but then I thought it would be weird to send a stranger product that I have already opened and used. But don’t worry, I’m not throwing these products away. I actually send out a text to my family and friends letting them know what I’m getting rid of and let them come shop for things they may want to try.

One day, a brand is going to add me to their PR list and I’m going to get sooooo much product that I’ll have enough to do a giveaway (of unopened product) for y’all. GOALSSSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!

Blogmas Day 7 | Product Empties & Shopping 4 Hair Products Online

Published on by KadiLeave a comment

Hello Passionista!

I’m back with another basket of empty products I have been collecting to share with you the good, the bad and the ugly.

Let’s start with…

The Shea Moisture sugarcane extract & meadowfoam seed silicone free miracle masque has been a game changer for me. I received this product in a SheaBassador box and before using this product I didn’t use a masque after every wash. Since using this product I see the difference in using a masque or deep conditioner vs when just conditioning the hair and using a leave in conditioner. My hair is a lot softer and not as tangled after the final rinsing. This is a product for all types of hair. If you’re looking for a hair masque to give your softer hydrated curls, I recommend you type this product.

Now, I’ve been using rice water for a year and never seen a product on shelf with rice water. The Shea Moisture purple rice water strength + color care conditioner (which I received in a SheaBassador Box) is the first hair product I’ve seen marketing on self with rice water as a ingredient. I don’t have any color in my hair, but I like how the conditioner nourishes hair with the ability to protect even colored hair. If you are a natural girl with color in your hair, I highly recommend you try this conditioner with the shampoo to nourish and balance your hair.

Not only does Camille Rose have great hair products, they have amazing skin and body care products. I used the Camille Rose Orange Honey Bath Elixir during my self care bubble bath sessions. It foams up really easy and creates the perfect bubble bath experience for a long hot self care night or it can set the mood for a night romantic shared bath.

I’m not big on taking vitamins, I honestly need to better with taking vitamins. So when I had the opportunity to try the Camille Rose Super Foods vitamins, I thought it would be a great opportunity to get me started on a daily vitamin. One thing I wanted to achieve with the Super Food vitamin is stronger nails and of course thicker, longer hair. I can honestly share that I saw results with stronger nails (fingernails and toenails). I have a history of having my nails break really easy. Taking 2 pills a day really helped my nails grow out naturally longer than they have ever been before without acrylic. I plan to continue to take the Super Food vitamins.

I’m not a Clinique customers. I see a lot of YouTuber using Clinique products but I never had a need for any of their skincare products. Someone gifted me a perfume samples that included the Clinique Happy scent. I must admit I like the scent. It’s not something I would pick for myself on my own but now that I’ve tried it, it’s a scent I would love to have in my collection. To me it smells slightly sweet but very mature.

Village Naturals Therapy Aches + Pains Cold & Allergy Relief Mineral Bath Soak-Everytime I take a bath I use epsom salt. It helps keep the water hot longer and it soothing to the body’s natural aches and pains.

I normally don’t use gels on my hair because I alway experience flaking. But the Chasing Curlz Instacurls Defining Gelle worked really well with my hair. I used in it combination with a curl cream to do twist outs. The belle gave my curls a nice hold that help my twist outs last a day or two longer than normal. I would love to re-purchase this product but its a online only product and I’m not eagered to purchase one hair product online that I could buy in store.

The Emilia Pro- Therapy Keratin Hair Mask is another great product that works really well for my hair but can only be purchased online.

There are a lot of things that I will order online to be delivered to my front door. Hair products are just not one of those products yet. I would rather go in store to purchase my hair products so that I can use it right then. I miss the hype of some products cause I’m just not shopping online for hair products. TELL ME, do you shop online for hair products?