Manetabolism Results & Update 1/29/15

Hey Beauties!!

I wanted to do the recap on my Manetabolism use/results for a few reasons: 1) I never posted about it at the end of my time frame in 2014, 2) I sort of fell off of using it towards the end of 2014, and 3) I've decided to sort of re-dedicate myself and try again.

If you weren't following FFF last year, you can see my original 2014 Hair Growth Challenge post here.

Right before starting supplements in 2014

As a quick recap, here were my goals while using Manetabolism:

• Thicker hair--I know. From the pictures I've shared my hair probably appears thick. IT IS. But it used to be thicker (circa 2.5-3 years ago), and I miss it.
• Stronger Edges/Nape --Not sure what it is lately, but definitely one of my "problem areas." They thrive for a while then break.
• Length! --Yes I have achieved significant growth in the last 2 years (with no supplements) just by taking care of my hair. However (I want more!), the pace of my growth seems to have tapered off a good deal.

In 2015, I have the same goals.

Now, you are probably wondering, "does Manetabolism work?"

• Yes it definitely does. And it did for me. HOWEVER (isn't there always a however?), as good as I was taking care of my hair 95% of the time, most of the time I would go to sleep without a headscarf/bonnet (and no I do not have silk pillow cases). I know I know. I broke a sacred afro-texture hair rule. As a result, despite gaining ~2-2 1/2 inches of growth, my hair was breaking at the same damn time. Ugh. So much for progress right? But I learned the hard way I guess. I'm doing better in 2015 though!!
• I also found myself with THICKER and FULLER hair, which is always a plus!
• I did also find myself skipping days every now and again (just forgetting to take them), I am not sure how or if this affected my results.

Are there side effects?

• I remember when I first started using Manetabolism I got light headed once or twice. It is recommended that you drink a lot of water while using those pills and on those instances I was simply dehydrated. Outside of that, I have experienced no side effects. I have heard some women having breakouts when taking in higher levels of biotin (not just with Manetabolism, any similar product with a lot of biotin), but again I did not experience that.

  More important facts

• Similar to last year, I just got my hair colored and trimmed (1/26/2015)
• Started Supplements January 19, 2015
• Again, I love a sale, so I usually purchase when the company has a discount going which is most holidays. (anywhere from 20-40% off)
• Still drinking a gallon of water a day (not specifically for the supplements, but overall good health)
• Continued Clean Eating

Hair Regimen (A few changes from last year)

• Shampoo once a week, deep condition once a week (due to color, moisture retention is key)
• Limited heat -- I did well with this in 2014. Rarely applied heat (only to straighten every once in a while)
• Again moisture, moisture, moisture-- Every 2-3 days applying moisture and sealing 
• Protective styling--simply because I need a break from her! 
• Consistent edges TLC (JBCO)

More Pictures from 2014 & early 2015:

5/16/14

6/6/14

6/13/14

6/26/14

6/26/14

6/28/14

July 2014 (clean, naked hair)

July 2014

After highlights/straighten/trim 7/2014

8/2014

9/17/14

Blow out before sew in 11/2014

 

Flat twistout on blown out hair 12/2014

Curlformer set 12/31/14

Color/Straighten/Trim 1/16/2015

 

After color/straighten/trim 1/19/15

 Have you used Manetabolism or any other hair growth supplements? Did you see results? Comment Below & Share!




Disclosure of Material Connection: Items in this post were purchased with my own funds. I have not received any compensation for writing this post. I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255:"Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

SheaMoisture BOGO Walgreens Sale

 

 Hi Beauties!

I have to apologize because I know this post is late (as in the sale is probably over), but I am sharing anyway! Also, from what I have noticed these BOGO sales on SheaMoisture products happen quite frequently and alternate between Walgreens and CVS, so check back on the blog frequently for a heads up!

I know how this looks. Product Junkie like. But I swear I'm not! It should be more accurately described as I like to save money. I am really at the point where I only use what works, even though every now and again I'll try a new product. Since I've gone back to wearing my hair out SheaMoisture products have been a staple in my hair care. I regularly use products from the moisture retention line (Shampoo & Deep Conditioner) as well as Curl Enhancing Smoothie (must have). So because I use their products so regularly, I like to stock up whenever there is a sale--because I'm all about saving them COINS. Yaaasss hunny. I also get additional savings by purchasing in Delaware, tax free. It is all about strategy.

As you may or may not know, I have be hunting relentlessly for the JBCO SheaMoisture line since it came out (-_-) and most places either didn't carry it at all, or it was sold out. Well, I have finally been DELIVERT! Many of the local Walgreens in Delaware are now carrying the line (even though many of the products were missing when I went). You will notice there is no Curl Enhancing Smoothie in this picture...because neither of the TWO Walgreens stores I visited had any -_________- (but no worries I still have a raincheck for CVS BOGO *grins*). I stocked up on mostly new products (well new to me). Check out the list below with a few comments & initial impressions:

• JBCO Strengthen, Grow & Restore Shampoo (2): Was a bit shocked by the thinner consistency of this formulation. Curious to see how it will perform.
• JBCO Strengthen, Grow & Restore Leave-in Conditioner (2): Have never tried any of their leave ins, curious!
• JBCO Strengthen, Grow & Restore Treatment Masque (3)
• Moisture Retention Deep Treatment Masque (1): Definitely a staple deep conditioner for me, does an excellent job of bringing moisture to my hair.
• Travel Size Moisture Retention Shampoo (1)
• Travel Size Curl and Shine Shampoo (1)
• Superfruit Complex 10-in-1 Renewal System Shampoo (2): Smells like Rihanna's first perfume.
• Superfruit Complex 10-in-1 Renewal System Hair Masque (2): Have heard great things about this line.

I will definitely be doing product reviews on the JBCO and Superfruit Complex products as I try them so stay tuned for that. Have you tried any of these products before? What did you think of them? Sound off in the comment section!!

Summertime Hair..

My favorite season of the year is the SUMMER.  A lot of wonderful things happen in the summer... My birthday, no snow, concerts, picnics/cookouts, my birthday, roadtrips, beaches, vacation, and MY BIRTHDAY! 

I think the hardest part of the summer for me is deciding what to do with my hair.  Right now my hair is in a transition state or should I say states.  I am currently sporting three different textures: natural, texlaxed, and relaxed.  Trust me it is a struggle handling all three states.  I am always dealing with breakage at the demarcation line of where the textures meet; however, I refuse to do a big chop.  I have transitioned to natural before without a big chop and I am determined to do it again.  Although I am transitioning to natural right now, this is not necessarily a permanent thing.  For now I am just trying to get one texture in my hair, and then I will decide if I want to go back to being relaxed.  So back to the problem at hand….3 textures and summer time humidity.

My current options: braids, wigs, flat iron, and natural state

Here are MY pros and cons for each

Braids/Twists

Pros:        minimal work for upkeep

                Protective style

               

Cons:       can cause damage if not proper care isn’t taken

                Heavy

                Hard on edges

Wigs

Pros:        Easy to wear

                Easy access to my hair

                Protective Style

                Minimal work for upkeep

Cons:       Feels like a winter hat

                Double hair duty (Hair has to be taken care of while maintaining your own hair regimen)

Flat Iron

Pros:        new style

                Length checks

                Smooth cuticles

Quick styling

Quick night time routine

Cons:       Heat damage is a possibility

                Durability is slim due to humidity and workouts

Natural State

Pros:        no heat styles

                Durable in humidity and workouts

                Easy on edges

Cons:       longer night time routine

                Daily maintenance

                         

Does anyone else have any suggestions on what I should do with my hair?

What are you guys doing with your hair this summer?

3 Month Hair Challenge

As of today I am starting a 3-month hair challenge.  I have these hair nails and vitamin pills that have been sitting in my closet for months not being used.  I think I may have taken them once.  The reason why I haven't taken them is because they smell horrible.  I literally felt nauseous trying to get them down my throat and you have to take 3 of them.  So I'm determined to give these pills another shot and find something that I can drink to help make it easier for them to go down.

To help me measure how much growth I have in three months I have bleached two small pieces of hair (one in my nape and one close to the middle).  My nape is the hardest place for my hair to maintain length and my hair seems to grow faster in the middle so this will be my test.

Here are the pills in case anyone wants to join in on the fun.

2014 Hair Growth Challenge: Manetabolism

Happy Friday Beauties!! *cues music: Never would have made it* That Mon-Thurs struggle is real especially now that we are having such beautiful weather!


If you follow my personal IG account (@kingteeuhh) it's no surprise, I've Joined The Mane Choice's Manetabolism Hair Growth Challenge!

Everyone's intentions are different when using these types of products but here are mine:

• Thicker hair--I know. From the pictures I've shared my hair probably appears thick. IT IS. But it used to be thicker (circa 2.5-3 years ago), and I miss it.
• Stronger Edges/Nape --Not sure what it is lately, but definitely one of my "problem areas." They thrive for a while then break.
• Length! --Yes I have achieved significant growth in the last 2 years (with no supplements) just by taking care of my hair. However (I want more!), the pace of my growth seems to have tapered off a good deal.

Just a few important notes:

• I just got color and a much needed trim May 3, 2014
• Started Supplements May 6, 2014
• I purchased a two month supply--Will do a 1 Month Check in/Length Check and 2-Month Check in
• Continue drinking at least a gallon of water day
• Continue clean eating

 Planned Hair Regimen:

• Co-wash once a week (heavy gyming) and shampoo once, deep condition 2x a week
• Limited heat (I plan to straighten once in the next two months)
• Moisture, moisture, moisture!

I will be taking some more length (curly) photos this afternoon.

Will you join the challenge?

 
Have you used Manetabolism or any other hair growth supplements? Did you see results? Comment Below & Share!



Disclosure of Material Connection: Items in this post were purchased with my own funds. I have not received any compensation for writing this post. I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255:"Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Product Review- ORS Edge Control

Product: ORS  Olive Oil Edge Control

Price: 5.49 at CVS

Promises: Perfect Control for your edges.  Olive Oil Edge Control slicks and holds down edges while adding shine and moisture to the hair.  This non-sticky, non-greasy formula provides excellent hold without hardening the hair.  Ideal for maintaining slick styles.  Contains no alcohol! Gives superior hold! No flaking!

Directions: Apply to desired area and smooth with fingertips for desired hold.

Ingredients: Aqua (Water), Cetereth-25, PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, Propylene Glycol, PEG-7 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Glycerin, Cocodimonium Hydroxypropyl Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Parfum (Fragrance), Benzyl Benzoate, Citronellol, d-Limonene, Eugenol, Geraniol, Hexyl Cinnamal, Lilial, Linalool, Methyl Ionone, Diazolidinyl Urea, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, DMDM Hydantoin.

My Review: I first started using this when I got my first weave last September.  I was new to the edge control craze.  My weave lady used edge control so I went and got some to maintain the look she gave me.  At first I thought it was a decent product BUT that was because I didn't know any better.  I slowly started noticing that it would flake and produce white buildup.  It wasn't until my second weave that my weave lady introduced me to a better edge control product.  This new product was superior and showed my edges control like no other.  Overall I don't like this product mainly because it doesn't live up to its' promises.  Additionally, for a little bit more money you can get a superior product. 


Staple?: Most DEFINITELY NOT!

What are your thoughts on this edge control? Comment Below!



 








Disclosure of Material Connection: Items in this post were purchased with my own funds. I have not received any compensation for writing this post. I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255:"Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

#TransformationTuesday -- Tee's Hair Journey

After two major cuts (the first to shoulder length, the second a short cut w/shaved back) in the summer of 2011, I decided I missed my hair and wanted to not only grow it back, but grow it out as long as possible. My hair grows quickest when I just leave it alone--which I typically achieve with braids aka 'protective styling.' I should also add that at this time I had a relaxer (last one was Sept 2011 I believe). Now I will say that I didn't really decide to go natural or anything--I just know my hair--I had a length goal, my hair grows fastest when I leave it alone, and leaving it alone meant I didn't need to spend money on a relaxer. *** I personally have nothing against creamy crack, my hair was healthy with it, and once I reach my length goal I might just decide to go back. **Kanye shrug

June 2011

July 2011

I started with a sew in September 2011, which was achievable despite my brush cut in the nape area.

By the time this style was ready to be taken down, my nape area was long enough to 'catch' for braids and for roughly the next two years I went through a rotation of micro braids, senagalese twists, and sew ins.

                                                      

These styles served several purposes:

1. Again, my hair grows best and quickest when left alone and in protective styles
2. During this time I was in a job at a corporate headquarters with a office politics  'dressy'/no jeans or casual wear type setting
3. Grow out past that awkward length that isn't exactly long or short
4. Gym/workout friendly

By March 2013 I was out of this position and was really free to do anything I wanted with my hair so I experimented with Marley Twists, tried box braids (by myself), and other styles with no hair added.

Marley Twists -- May 2013

Twist out - April 2013

By August 2013 my 'curly' length was around my ears. 

This is the in between length I dislike

Then I decided to get color for my birthday, along with a much needed trim, and discovered that my straight length was to my shoulders (*praise dance*) which was longer than my hair was before my first cut in summer 2011. Yay for progress! 

September 2013--Color, Trim, Blow Dry, and Flat Iron

By December 2013 my curly length was good bit longer than August 

Wash N' Go

End of January 2014

And fast forward to early March 2014

Wash/Blow Dry/Flat Iron

and my straight length is even longer!

It's hard to believe it has been two years since I decided to grow my hair out but it has grown so much in that time frame. I am most excited for my 'curly' length to reach shoulder length next!



What are your hair goals and how are you working to achieve them? Comment below and tag us in your journey pics!