Loving It / Using It Vol. 14 - Pro Naturals Moroccan Argan Hair Repair Treatment for all hair types

Tags : Home >> Product Reviews >> Hair Oils

So, Argan is the latest fad in the beauty industry, right? Every skin care products, every anti-aging formulation, every dry hair issue has answer in argan oil. I had been long thinking about getting one bottle of myself but I had so many other products to finish off before that and voila, a products lands on my door step.

This is Pro Naturals Moroccan Argan Oil. Does Morocco not sound very exotic? In fact, long time back, I had one reader, Karima, from Morocco who was in regular touch with me. It has been long since I have heard from her but if I ever do, the only thing I would ask her is to bring me dozens of argan oil bottles from there :D She once said Moroccan Argan Oil is the best and original and amazing for everything!!

Hey Karima, if you are reading this, would love to hear from you :)  

And, so, I am here today with something hopefully almost as original as it can get. Honestly, reviewing it is a real challenge because I have no idea how authentic argan oil smells or feels. I just know that argan oil is very thick in consistency but it smells a little sweet and I am not really sure if I like it!! Anyways, lets get started.

Loving It / Using It : Using It

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Ever tried #ArganOil for #haircare? Check out #review at http://goo.gl/i55d0A via @skyiseternal @pronaturalsen #perfectskincareforyou
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• Price: 43$ for 50ml

• Availability: Online Website

• Smell: It has a faint fragrance smell which does not linger for long nor affects the nose!
  

• Packaging: Comes in a dark amber colored bottle with a dropper! Btw, real argan oil breaks down on exposure to light so real ones come in dark bottles. Dropper screws on tightly so travel-friendly as well. 

• Ingredients: Well, it does not say anything about the ingredients on the packaging but in the website, it mentions Special Ingredients -100% Argania spinosa kernel oil (Pure Argan Oil), Hydro Cordium: Vegetable based amino protein (strengthener), Purely Natural Plant Control-oil: Supplies hair nutrients and provides a protection layer, Multiple Tartaric Acid Complexes: Facilitate cell rejuvenation. So, I have no idea what to make of it. As far as I have read about real argan oil, it should have only 100% Argania spinosa kernel oil mentioned on the packaging. 

• Texture: The product is thick and does feel a bit sticky after applying the product. 

• Quantity: Just one drop is enough for a shoulder length fine hair. A bit more and hair might feel weighed down. So, the product would last reallyyyy long which makes the worth a bit justified!!

• Results. So, any leave-in should be applied on just a teensy-bit damp hair. So, same goes for this. Just the right amount makes the hair extremely tangle-free and soft. In the starting when I was using it, I thought it was making the hair a bit rough. But, later on, the results changed. So, the results also depend on what shampoo and conditioner you are using. But, yes, it would not nourish your hair or make it super shiny. Because, I felt it just sits on hair instead of nourishing it. My splits returned even after the hair cut! And, dry Hair needs something else before applying this like some aloevera gel or a drop of oil. But, it does control frizz. Now whether it ends up causing product build-up is something I can not comment on!! 

Overall Verdict

So, yes, this product is worth a try because it might work out amazing on some kinds of hair as well. Also, it should not be applied on scalp, only on hair length.

Have you heard about the product? Would you like to Argan oil on your hair? 

Related Posts:

Loving / Using It Vol. 1 - Garnier Pure Active pore unclogging wash
Loving / Using It Vol. 2 - Nivea Pure Effect Total Face Cleanup
Loving / Using It Vol. 3 - Kama Ayurveda Rose Jasmine Bath & Body Oil

My Hair Diaries - November 2012

is my hair looking rough or is it the lighting??? I washed it without using conditioner but my hair is damn soft to touch even if its not looking like that!!

Oh my gosh!! I can't really believe the year is coming to an end and yeah, I know I am gonna bore you with the countdown. I don't know why but something is in the air and its exciting and its making me happy even without me knowing what's there!!

Yeah, I am really weird!! So, lets cut the crap and proceed with my hair diary. Honestly, I am very happy with my hair this year and the way I have maintained my journal. I hope it has been of help to you as well.

What did I do in November?

• No DIY - Honestly, I have not done any DIY on my hair in terms of hair masks and I have mostly used all kinds of products on my hair but these days, its so soft and heavenly to touch. I truly love my hair with all its faults. 

• DIET - Ok, one thing which has helped my hair is DIET. Very, very important to eat properly. I am not on a weight-loss regime and I haven't started eating healthy. If you remember, I had mentioned that my diet had suffered a lot last year and it showed on my face, my body and my hair as well. Yes, it is very important to eat healthy and breakfast is important. I shall do a post separately on it.

• Hair Cuts - Another thing is I have had a lot of hair cuts this year. One very important observation I have made is that I have had a lot of split ends this year even with regular hair cuts. The only difference between this year and last year is the homemade hair masks and deep conditioning treatments I had done on my hair. So, I can positively say that JUST oiling and regularly conditioning and using an SLS free shampoo is not gonna help your hair at all. Deep conditioning and homemade hair masks do help. Since, I haven't used any professional salon range products, I can't say if they help or not.

• I have started to use Jojoba and Grapeseed oil for hair growth but its been just two or three times I have used so obviously can't say!! 

• I have been very regular this month with oiling and washing regime both in Delhi and Hyderabad. I have been using more or less many products on the hair but it hasn't suffered :) 

Products Used

• Hair Oil - Auravedic Restructuring Hair Oil + Kamini Hair Oil + Mom made + The Body Shop Polynesian Monoi Oil

• Shampoo - Kamini Shampoo

• Conditioner - L'Oreal Total Repair 5 + Liz Earle Botanical Shine Treatment + Dove Nourishing Oil Care Conditioner

I used Kamini hair oil and mom made oil at Delhi and finished Auravedic one this month and before last wash this month, I used Polynesian Monoi Oil (review coming soon). I am totally loving Kamini shampoo, in fact!!

this time I used the conditioner and leave-in as well and that's my messy side-braid night look :D

It really keeps my hair soft and prevents dryness. And, not loving the conditioner but finishing it :( I am also starting to use the Dove Nourishing Oil Care Serum from this month.

Previous Journal Entries:
My Hair Diaries - October 2012
My Hair Diaries - August + September 2012

My Hair Diaries - July 2012

My Hair Diaries - June 2012

My Hair Diaries - May 2012

My Hair Dairies - April 2012

My Hair Diaries - March 2012

My Hair Diaries - February 2012

My Hair Diaries - January 2012

The Body Shop Polynesian Monoi Oil {Product Review}

Doing product reviews in a small paragraph is awesome because it helps me get rid of products I don't have much to say about but some do deserve a proper mention.

Price: Rs 895 for 150ml

Ingredients (taken from the website)

Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Oil (Emollient), Bertholletia Excelsa Seed Oil (Emollient), Cocos Nucifera Oil (Emollient/Hair Conditioner), Sesamum Indicum Seed Oil (Skin-Conditioning Agent), Parfum (Fragrance), Tocopherol (Antioxidant), Linalool (Fragrance Ingredient), Hexyl Cinnamal (Fragrance Ingredient), Gardenia Tahitensis Flower Extract (Skin-Conditioning Agent) 

Pros

gets absorbed in winters when the skin is really dry

moisturizing for all skin types except dry

smells faintly of Jasmine

softens the hair and is a good hair oil

Cons

very expensive

is very greasy on skin if not winters!!

might not be enough for dry skin

My Experience

I have had this product for quite a long time. Its basically coconut oil, I believe!! Or, rather believed before I got this entire ingredient list!! I thought it smells of Jasmine and coconut blended but its actually Gardenia. Apparently, Gardenia smells just like Jasmine. 

Anyways, I used this a couple of months back when I found it too greasy to apply. But, in fact, it does get absorbed pretty quickly into the skin in winters and moisturize well. But, there is one issue. I don't think it will be enough for too dry skin. One has to follow with a mositurizer.

Otherwise, its a perfect companion for winters. Now, I also used it as a hair oil. It makes the hair really soft but I don't think I really saw any better shine. But, yes, it is expensive enough to discourage you to use it as a regular hair oil :D But, yup, one of the good buys from TBS. 

Have you used the product? How do you like it?

Other products from The Body Shop:

The Body Shop Spiced Vanilla Body Scrub

The Body Shop Wooden Shaving Brush

The Body Shop Detangling Comb

The Body Shop Bath Gloves

The Body Shop Olive Body Scrub

The Body Shop Aqua Lily Body Mist

The Body Shop Cactus Brush

The Body Shop Vanilla Body Butter Duo

Loving It / Using It Vol. 11 - Omved Purifying Shampoo Brahmi & Peppermint for all hair types

Sometime in between flipkart had discontinued selling my favourite Organic Surge shampoo and I was looking around to see if I could get used to something else!! And, then, Omved people sent out their product to check out.

I was excited to try it out because of the fact that they are a completely organic brand and I have loved their body oil which I had reviewed earlier. And, I have overshot the reviewing time (again!) but I have used the product so thoroughly and almost to the last drop!! Now, I am not really sure if I love the product because I have had variable results with it, honestly!

Loving It / Using It : Using It

Shampoo - Ingredient List

• Price - Really expensive!! A bottle would last 2-3 months depending on your hair length.

• Availability - Online shop

• Smells bad. Actually, I do not like it at all. It is supposed to smell of rosemary and  but it smells really weird. 

• Packaging - I like that the shampoo comes in a aluminium sort of bottle with a pump but unfortunately for me, the pump really didn't work so I had to unscrew the top and use it. It was inconvenient. The conditioner comes in a glass bottle with a pump which worked perfectly and does not give up a large amount of product. I like to think it is travel-friendly but I have not really travelled with it. 

• Has to be followed with a conditioner.  

Conditioner - Ingredient List

Usage 

Only one dollop of shampoo is really necessary for a shoulder length hair. And, I have noticed that it works best to dilute the product with water. It lathers a lot for a SLS free product and it works really well to remove the oil in the hair. 

But, if you do not dilute it with water, the shampoo dries out  the hair and makes it straw-like and frizzy and over time, the hair quality deteriorates. And, it is extremely important to follow up with the conditioner otherwise the hair is generally dry!

I use almost 10 pumps of the conditioner but so much of quantity is not really necessary. But, it softens the hair pretty much because the shampoo leaves it a lot dry and gives a bit of shine to the hair. And, one bottle will last about 20 washes for a mid-waist length hair. Even after using the conditioner, one has to use leave-in.

My Verdict

It does make the dry hair more drier so I would not say it is suited for all hair types. Oily hairs would find it better than the dry haired gals. And, don't forget your hair conditioner and the leave-in.

Have you used the product? How did you like it? Do share your experience with any other product you might have used from Omved!

Related Posts:
Loving It / Using It Vol. 9 - Le Beurre Shea Butter Body Cream Vanilla
Loving It / Using It Vol. 7 - Madara Colour and Shine Shampoo for Colored / Treated Hair
Loving / Using It Vol. 6 - Vaadi Herbals Chandan Kesar Haldi Face Pack

My Hair Diaries - October 2012

What did I do in October?

As such I have not done anything great in this month but yup, I did try to maintain my alternate day routine of oiling and washing the hair. Well, ok, skipped oiling quite a lot of times but kept up with washing part to keep the hair clean. No DIY again!! 

After using the Kamini treatment last month, my hair did become a lot softer and less dry. But, this time I changed the products except for the shampoo. Also, I did order Basil essential oil which is also supposed to be great for hair growth and jojoba and grapeseed oils which again are supposed to be amazing for hair.

One DIY which I tried was using vinegar as last rinse but I don't know if it really helped. Forgot to take the snaps that day!! Also, ordered Organic Surge finally and also got a pair of flats!! Never got footwear online....hope it fits ok!! Will share it with you when my camera gets ok :)

Products Used

• Soul Tree shampoo + Kamini Shampoo

• L'Oreal Total Repair 5 Hair Mask + Liz Earle Botanical Shine Treatment

• Rustic Art Aloevera gel (for hair length) + DIY Aloevera Scalp Gel (for scalp) + The Body Shop Polynesian Monoi Oil (a drop is enough)

• Forest Essentials Sesame Oil (for scalp) + The Body Shop Polynesian Monoi Oil (for the length)

What do you think about my hair this month?

Related Posts: 
My Hair Diaries - August + September 2012

My Hair Diaries - July 2012

My Hair Diaries - June 2012

My Hair Diaries - May 2012

My Hair Dairies - April 2012

My Hair Diaries - March 2012

My Hair Diaries - February 2012

My Hair Diaries - January 2012

Hard Water affecting Hair? {Hair Care}

A couple of days back, I received two-three queries as to how to control hair fall due to hard water. When we shift places and go to a new place, hair fall is kinda inevitable. The change in climate, water, air, everything affects the hair. But, water is the most common reason for damaged hair texture and hair fall. You can not make the water soft so what you can do is try out a few tricks which might help. 

Use mineral water or boiled water only

This is the most common way to soften the water. Using the water from the mineral water bottles. But, honestly, affording that much is not exactly easy. But, more often than not, you will definitely find aqua guards at the water taps. So, use that water and remember to have enough of aqua guard water in reserve while having shower.

This is something which you can easily do when you are staying in a hostel. More often than not, hostels have bore well water which is extremely hard and harsh on the hair. Boiled water also helps but the problem is having enough of water which has been boiled and cooled down for the reserve. You will probably need 4-5 buckets :D

Shower Filters

I have read a lot about them that they can help filter out certain chemicals right from the tap or the showers so you might use them. Apparently, there are a lot of varieties of shower filters available but the problem is availability. I don't know if they are as easily available and affordable and not overtly expensive. But, you can try going around the bathroom accessory shops. 

Use Deep Conditioning Treatments Regularly

Unfortunately, the hard water makes the hair much like straw. So, deep conditioning treatments are very important. Invest in salon range products for regular usage and go for egg and yogurt treatments once a week, if possible. Also, a monthly hair spa does help, provided you can afford it. Also, make sure, you are doing hot oil treatment regularly. 

Make sure there is No Residue

Make sure you do not use any styling tools and products because they can create a lot of residue. If you do, don't forget to use a clarifying shampoo or add a tea spoon of vinegar once a month to your shampoo and wash your hair. And, avoid chemical treatments like rebonding and coloring till you are sure your hair has accommodated to the change.

I know I have not answered the question on how to prevent the hair fall but honestly, its something which one can't do unless the hair has accommodated to the change. Using an SLS-free shampoo might help. What do you think? How do you deal with hard water? And, how do you manage your hair in hard water? Looking forward to your tips :)

Shampoo on Dry Hair {Hair Care}

This is probably one of the really good tips of hair care. Basic chemistry states that oil and water do not mix together. So, this principle applies when wahing off hair as well. If you wet the oiled hair or even non-oiled hair (it has natural oils), the shampoo doesn't react well with it and the hair more or less remains dirty. 

Since commercial shampoos are filled with surfactants, they are strong enough to clean the hair but the SLS-free shampoos generally end up not cleaning the hair properly. So, how to use the shampoo on dry hair? Take a dollop or two of your shampoo in a small container and add just a fist ful of water to it. Dilute it nicely and shampoo your hair just as you would.

Always try to shampoo twice if your hair does get exposed to lot of sun and pollution. First wash only cleans the scalp partly and the second it to make the scalp squeaky clean. And, by squeaky clean, I don't really mean that it should squeak but a clean scalp and hair is very important for healthy hair. If you tend to stay inside more, one wash is generally enough and you can do it twice in once a week.

So, don't forget this tip next time you hop into the shower. It generally happens with me that I remember this when I pour water over my head so don't make that mistake ;)

Related Posts:  
Are you shampooing your hair the right way?
How to wash your hair with soapnuts (reetha)?
Turn your regular shampoo into a homemade herbal shampoo
Upside down or normal - How to wash Hair?

My Hair Diary - September 2013

So, this month also I did not really concentrate on my hair. I got a hair cut in August and now I am just trying to prevent the split ends. I did not even oil my hair religiously. Its more of a washing your hair routine after coming from the office.

I hate sleeping with oil on my hair coz it stains the pillows and everything badly. And, most of the time, I wash my hair on the weekdays so there was no time for pampering. Also, I tried to use a shampoo which was totally not suiting me. Its not worth talking about so lets skip it but it did give me hair fall while I used it.

So, once I stopped using it, my hair was back to normal. So, if you are looking to change your shampoo be very very sure. Also, I have ordered Organic Surge shampoo back again as it had suited me so well. And, I am loving the conditioner as well. I can suggest it but I am not gonna review it anytime soon.

Yes, one treatment which I gave my hair in this last month was regularly using aloevera gel on the scalp and the body of the hair instead of using any oil. Why? Well, one is for a change and second, I think the oil was weighing my hair down the next day.

But, I would absolutely suggest this aloevera gel treatment. It gives such a beautiful definition to your curls and following with a drop of oil leaves your hair bouncy and next day the hair does not even end up weighed down. And, the hair is sooooooooo soft to touch.

What products I used?

• Shampoo - Kamini Shampoo

• Conditioner - Kamini Conditioner + Organic Surge Color Protect Conditioner

• Hair Oil - Vaadi Herbals Amla Oil

• Hair Treatment and Styling - Aloevera Gel

So, how is your hair doing now? 

Related Posts:

My Hair Diary - August 2013
My Hair Diary - July 2013
My Hair Diaries - June 2013

My Hair Diaries - August + September 2012

that's my hair after the hair spa...totally loving my curls :)

So, another month gone and we are fast approaching 2013. How time flies, right? Anyways, you might have noticed the missing hair diary of August. That was because I had completely ignored my hair in August and my hair was all rough and dry.

What I did in August?

Honestly, I am not able to recall what I did with my hair in August. But, I am pretty sure, I had completely ignored my hair. Anyway, I did go for hair cut on 31st August. And, I did finish off some left over products like Biotique Flame of the Forest and Kama Brigandi Oil. Had been using the Kamini shampoo only and finished the Dove Color Rescue Conditioner. Yup, I am not doing any DIY on my hair right now :(

What about September?

• I had to start with the Kamini treatment I was doing again because my hair was all rough and dry and I wanted it to be a little better. I had been more or less consistent with it.
• Got TWO hair spas done this month. Second one was way better than the first but still I think it was too much. But, yup, I am up for at least once a month pampering for hair. In fact, already planned a hair spa (and, the real spa) for this month :)
• No DIY again!!! But, one of the girls told me to apply egg every week on at least the scalp. So, guess, will be starting with that. 
• Oh, totally forgot to write about my another hair cut on 30th September. Got almost two inches off. My mom would be shocked :-o Had to trim coz there were a lot of splits. 

Products Used

• Kamini Treatment Oil + Tonic
• Soul Tree Shampoo (not yet decided about the product!!)
• Dove Color Rescue Conditioner
• Aloevera Hair Growth Gel DIY

Related Posts:
My Hair Diaries - July 2012

My Hair Diaries - June 2012

My Hair Diaries - May 2012

My Hair Dairies - April 2012

My Hair Diaries - March 2012

My Hair Diaries - February 2012

My Hair Diaries - January 2012

Vaadi Herbals Amla Thanda (Cool) Tail (Oil) {Product Review}

I have taken quite a good time to review this product, reason being its very difficult to make out how a hair oil will behave and also because I wanted to see if it stands tall on all its claims! I have to say it more than surpasses on one of it!!

So, let me start with the smell. It smells like the typical amla oil which we are so used to smelling. And, let me be honest when I say that how it fares on the hair growth aspect is something I would not speculate since one and half month is really less to make such inferences. 

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Pros

cools and relaxes the body

gives a subtle shine to the hair

gets washed off easily enough

Cons

its smell might not agree with everyone

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But, it is sooooo cool. I think no other cooling oil would stand in front of it and it really helps a lot! So, its best to use in summers. When you are going to have the head bath, it feels like heaven so yes, it is amazing in that aspect. It also relieves headache and relaxes the body. It quite beats navratan oil.

So, yup, do give this amazing oil a try. Have you already used the product? Do you like it?

Related Posts:

Vaadi Herbals Aromatherapy Body Oil Pure Lemongrass and Lily Oil
Nivea pure effect Total Face Cleanup
Maybelline Baby Lips Mango Pie and Berry Crush Lip Balms

Get it from flipkart:

How are Rich Feel products? {Your Opinion}

So, have you heard of the brand? Apparently, it is a herbal brand and as far as I can recall, I do think I have heard of the brand but can't recall. So, I want to ask you if you have heard any reviews of the brand or used them? Please do put in your views. 

The reason I am asking is coz I pampered myself with a hair growth hair spa today. And, they used the rich feel products. They were supposed to use L'Oreal professional but suddenly changed it to this one. I am skeptical about herbal products, no doubt!!! So, would love to hear your views :)

Soul Tree Travel Size Samples Preview

Before starting the post, I would like to state that this is just a preview post as I know many of you are waiting to hear my views on the Soul Tree shampoo. Also, these are only sample sizes which I have tried out so I am not doing a full review. So, let's start :)

Soul Tree Indian Rose with Cooling Vetiver Shower Gel

I totally liked it. It smells really nice in sort of a natural way. I don't think I really felt any cooling but it didn't leave my skin stretched or dry. The sample was small so I could get only 4-5 uses out of it. My dad also tried it once and said it was ok. Worth trying out!!

Soul Tree Triphala with Conditioning Henna Hair Repair Shampoo

I have a full size product of this so a detailed review will come sometime in first or second week of October. But, for now, I would say that it does leave the hair soft and shiny and doesn't let it frizz much. But, I think this shampoo is for oily or normal hair and not for dry. 

Soul Tree Licorice, Shikakai & Bhringraj with nourishing Coconut oil Shampoo

This I thought would be more suitable for dry hair. But, otherwise, pretty much the same. 

Now, a small point on both shampoos which I am not yet clear of - the triphala one didn't remove oil at all when I used it for the first time but the trick I found out eventually is that leave the shampoo on for 2 minutes and it cleanses really well. Since they do not have SLS/SLES, the product probably takes a little time to cleanse the oil (totally my theory!!). So, if you are a beauty who loves to oil her hair regularly, make sure you keep the shampoo on the hair for 2-3 minutes before washing off. And, don't worry, that doesn't dry out the hair at all :) 

Rest of the details, you can ask in the comments section and I shall definitely try to put more detail and experience in my detailed review. This post has been put up only because I have finished up all the samples.

My Hair Diary - August 2013

So, August was quite a lazy time for me whether in case of skin or hair. I did practically nothing for my hair except one treatment of Lush Caca Maroon. And, the tip of the month is to apply aloevera gel to contain flyaways and frizzy hair!! Works like a charm for me :) Let me put forward some of the questions I received on the last hair diary entry I had done.

Do you use any essential oils for your hair like rosemary or lavender?

Yes, actually! I have started using essential oils last year and I do very strongly believe that they have helped my hair a lot.

I love rosemary and that is my most extensively used essential oil. It has definitely helped improve the health of my hair and scalp.

Peppermint is another essential oil which is supposed to be amazing for hair growth. And, if you do get, thyme as well. I somehow have not liked any lavender essential oil till date.

Do you do the scalp treatment daily or just after every hair wash?

Well, I do believe that any scalp treatment should be done only after the hair has been freshly washed otherwise you will facilitate the hair to get even more dirtier by accumulating products on the scalp. Also, dirty scalp does not allow proper absorption of products so no point in wasting them then.

Well, there were these two questions last month! If you do have doubts, you can drop in the comments or send me mail and I shall answer them as well as post the detailed answers in the next month hair diary. And, now to the products I used.

Products Used

• Shampoo - Organic Surge

• Conditioner - Kamini Conditioner

• Hair Oil - Vaadi Herbals Amla Oil 

Related Posts:

My Hair Diary - July 2013

My Hair Diaries - June 2013

My Hair Diary - May 2013

Get from flipkart:

My Hair Diary - July 2013

So, I am again pretty late in putting up the hair diary post this month. Anyways, Suhani had a few questions for me when she read the last hair diaries. So, lemme just answer them for everyone's benefits.

Does oil not attract dirt?

Yes, it does. But, I use only 5 drops at max so I doubt it would do any harm but point taken!

How do I do the scalp treatment?

I take a few drops of oil (2-3) and rub the finger tips against each other to spread the oil and then massage the scalp and then pass the hand over the strands to spread a light film over the strands, especially on the ends!

Ok, there is one point which I wanted to discuss. Why SLS-free shampoos? Actually, I had read it long back but I think there is something in that. SLS makes the hair very dry which is something well known but apparently it also impedes hair growth. I have to say that I have definitely noticed my hair to be in better health since I have shifted my shampoos. And, I do believe my hair has dried up a bit in this one month of change of shampoo!!

Ok, a day back I also read that changing shampoos is good for hair because it keeps on changing the chemical composition of hair. Being used to one shampoo alters the composition in only way which is why you do not notice that bounce after a bit of getting used to any product. Well, honestly, I have no idea if it is true or not but if you do have 3-4 choices of great shampoos, go for it!!

When you repeatedly use one shampoo, you are altering your hair’s chemical balance and changing the results of the shampoo. Obviously we want to see results from our shampoo, but if you don’t alternate them, then your hair’s chemical balance will work against you and you will see different results with the same shampoo over time. In a sense, you are changing the effect of the shampoo by using it for too long. In certain instances, the effect can be harmful to your hair. (Source)

Products Used

• Shampoo - Clear anti-dandruff Shampoo

• Conditioner - Kamini Conditioner

• Leave-in and Scalp Treatment - Neelibrigandi Oil
  

• Hair Oil - Neelibrigandi Oil

Related Posts:

My Hair Diaries - June 2013

My Hair Diary - May 2013

My Hair Diary - April 2013

Clear Nourishing Scalp Care Anti-Dandruff Shampoo {Product Review}

As you all know that I have been using an SLS-free shampoo since like 6 months at the least, using an SLS shampoo was something I was not very comfortable with but I had received it for review so I had to do it. And, generally, anti-dandruff shampoos tend to be quite drying.

So, let me start by saying that I think this product was not very drying. I did take care of my hair by regularly massaging the scalp and using scalp and leave-in treatments but sometimes I just got too lazy and did nothing to my hair except washing.

And, suffice it to say, my hair was in a good condition though a little frizzy. But, that it is to be expected when you do not use conditioner or anything, right? I do have curly to wavy hair and nope, no increase in split ends either. The texture of the product is very creamy and it did not feel very harsh on the scalp.

My scalp also did not feel really dry or anything!! I can not really say that how it affects dandruff since I do not have any but overall, my experience with this shampoo (at least twice a week for a month) was fine only. So, yes, this can be a good choice if you are looking at over the counter shampoos.

Have you used this product? Did you like it?

PS: Product sent by brand for consideration.

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Vaseline Healthy White Lightening Visible Fairness Lotion

Hair Combs and Brushes {Reader's Query}

Hi Swati, I coundn't find an appropriate post in which to ask this question, so I'm asking here. You've written a lot about hair care, but I couldn't find any post about hair brushes/combs. I've been reading that boar bristle brushes are really good for hair. What are your thoughts on that? What brushes/ combs do you use? Do you find that good quality ones aid in maintaining good hair health or is it unnecessary? I've seriously been considering purchasing a boar bristle brush (regular brushes cause more hair fall for me compared to combs), but I couldn't find a single Indian blog that had mentioned anything about it. 

So, first of all, thanks Poohkie for pointing such a pertinent topic. And, I am so sorry it has already been a month that I have not reverted back! Now, let me get back to the topic. Long back, I had discussed a bit of history on the combs and the ones I have used subsequently! I am really sorry about the missing pics in that post but I had deleted a pics folder in picasa because of which many of my posts have missing pics!

Wooden Combs

Apparently, the Indian artisans in history used to make wooden combs which had a sort of string of holes through the base of the teeth. One could pour a drop or two of oil through the first hole which used to travel down the comb and when used on the hair, the oil gets applied to the roots and hair strands evenly, nourishing the hair!

I have come across quite a number of wooden combs by now but still the TBS one remains my fav! I think its mainly to do with the finishing of the product. I recently got one for my friend as well and she has been finding a considerable difference in her hair. So, yes to wooden combs compared to the plastic ones! But, whatever you choose, make sure they are wide-teethed.

How to choose Hair Brushes?
Ok, the first rule with brushes is that if you have curly hair, its better to avoid one! Otherwise, I have heard natural brushes or boar-bristle brushes are really good. So, I did find out a long long time back that Denman and Mason Pearson are the two best brands when it comes to hair brushes but unfortunately I have no idea where they are available online. TBS carries wooden quilled brushes as well, one of which I had bought but use it very occasionally.

A flat brush or paddle brush is great to tame the hair and distribute the natural oils from the roots to the tips of the strands. The bristles of the brush can be nylon or wooden or natural hair like boar bristle or horsehair. Also, the base of the brushes should be rubber preferably because that allows the bristles to move more flexibly and damages the hair lesser comparatively!

How much brushing is good?
Hundred brush strokes a day is said to do amazing things to hair but I think that's just overdoing it. Excess brushing can actually damage the hair. First, brush the hair only when it is dry and it is straight.

Brushing curly hair can harm its cuticles because the hair strand is uneven and the brush quills can rip it off! That is why natural hair is preferable on the brush.

Also, a few brush strokes a day does help distribute the natural oils evenly on the hair. So, make sure you do not brush your hair excessively as it flattens the hair. If you have fine hair, remember that it can look very weighed down if you brush it more often, especially when it is a day old.

How to clean the brush?
I have to say that this is the one part which stumps me completely and discourages me to use my TBS brush. But, you do not have to worry if your brush is not wooden.

After every brush stroke, make sure you remove the hair strands caught up in the bristles. Ignoring them too much can lead to lot of accumulation of hair strands.

Also, soaking them and washing them once in two weeks or a week depending on how frequently you use it or how dirty it has become is good. I use a discarded tooth brush to clean the base of the brush and even my comb and nails. 

Do you use a brush? How do you choose your hair brushes? How often do you use them and how do you clean your brush?

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My Hair Diaries - June 2013

I totally forgot to put up the hair diary post this month and half of July is already gone! Anyways, June was quite here and there for me. But, I did try out an interesting DIY which I am going to share with you all after I am really satisfied with it.

In the meantime, let's talk about all other things. It was just regular otherwise. Oh, I have been given to review the Clear anti-dandruff shampoo and I can safely say that SLS-free shampoos are a bit better but it really depends on how you take care of your hair as well.

Also, I have a very interesting observation to make. Now, we are always discussing about natural hair remedies or some such things. I have never really talked about the professional products from brands like L'Oreal or Schwarzkopf! But, are the two extremes really comparable in results? Which do you believe in? I shall leave you to ponder more about it!

Oh btw, there is one good news. I can see a lot of small hairs growing from my scalp so that makes me happy :) So, I think I should stick to all the things I have been doing for the past months, though I really have no idea what exactly is working! 

Products Used:

• Shampoo - Kamini Shampoo

• Conditioner - Kamini Conditioner

• Leave-in and Scalp Treatment - TBS Rainforest Coconut Oil + Neelibrigandi Oil
  

• Hair Oil - TBS Rainforest Coconut Oil + Neelibrigandi Oil

PS: Please write honest testimonials about my blog here and make Perfect Skin Care for you one of the winners in Indiblogger Awards. You will have my undying gratitude :)

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Update on Onion Juice for Hair Growth - Part II {Hair Care}

So, long back in February I had done a first FAQ post on onion juice method. Please refer to this post to know how to apply onion juice. That is one of the most searched posts on my website and generates a lot of redundant questions which I had thought of answering at one go. This is the second part to this post.

Does it reduce hair fall?

Yes, it does reduce hair fall. But, apply it only as instructed.

Does it help with dandruff?

Yes, it helps with dandruff because of the sulphur present in it. 

How soon does the hair grow?

Depends on your hair growth cycle. The onion juice method just provides the sulphur topically to your hair follicles. It definitely helps in regenerating the dormant hair follicles.

How long should the juice be kept on hair?

15-30 minutes is a good time. Onion juice dries off in flakes so its best to remove asap. And, of course, the stink is horrible. 

Does it stink?

Yes, it does! And, no, I have not used it with essential oils to tell you that you can use them to make the onion juice pleasant. I have a feeling that both might not mix properly because one is water and another is concentrated oil. 

Does it change the hair color?

Actually, that depends. I think it changes my hair color to copper. But, it might just make my hair shine with its natural color. I have heard some people say that it made no difference to their hair color.

Does onion really help?

Now, that is something which you have to find out for yourself. It does for most but it might not for some just like all other home remedies!!

After applying onion juice, I had more hair fall. Will it reduce?

Well, it might be coz your hair is already a lot weak. Always comb your hair before you oil it and apply any kind of hair pack. That makes easy the application process. After combing your hair thoroughly, use a cotton ball to apply the onion juice and instead of rubbing the scalp, dab the cotton ball on the scalp. That way, there should be no breakage. Yes, the hair fall should reduce over time but if applying onion juice after combing your hair is still making your hair fall, you might want to avoid it altogether. Use your best judgment in this.

Do you have any more questions? Do let me know!

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My Hair Diary - June 2014

Good Morning folks or should I say afternoon. As I ranted yesterday about the bad condition of my hair, let me say I have to restart my hair caring routines :( The volume is gone, strands are full of splits and hair is peachy and strawy in texture. But, off late, I have inculcated a few good things in my routine so let us have a look at them.

• Oiling - I hate this step!! Of course, I love to oil my hair but damn the timing. I prefer to wash my hair at night and sometimes it gets so late for me to get back from office that sometimes I do not get time to do this. And, then, hot oil massage happens probably once a month so I really miss this step. I do try to keep it up but mostly I miss it. 

• Cuts and Trims - Last hair cut was in April and that too not a good one and I need to go for it again soon enough.

• Massage - I have developed this habit of massaging my hair while I am idle. This happens especially in the office (the environment is pretty relaxed!!) when I am thinking of something or watching House of Cards or The Originals! 

• Rubbing the nails together - Do you think this helps? Well, no scientific proof but people think so let me also give it a try.

• Scalp Serum - Coming to the more practical aspects, I got this Keo Karpin scalp vitaliser. I try to apply it once a week or in two weeks, though it says it should be done everyday. And, then, I stopped using it right away so its lying in the shelf.

• Leave-in - I shifted to rosehip from grapeseed for leave-in. I have no idea how it is working but lets see!! 

• Cocoa Butter Hair Mask - So, I had a lot of cocoa butter from a long time and I have been just wishing to put it to good use. And, finally I have a chance to do it. So, let me see when I will try it!!

And, I think Organic Surge has pulled out of India (not really sure but shampoos are not available online on couple of websites) so guess I shall have to find a new shampoo :( Also, it has been ages since I have used a conditioner. 

Products Used

• Hair Oil - Dabur Olive Oil 

• Shampoo - Madara + Kamini Shampoo

So, how is your hair doing?

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From the Archives : Aloevera for Hair : a quickfix {DIY}

As you all know, I swear by aloevera anytime of the day for hair. This was a tip I had found works really great when I had been at home and was trying out aloevera gel on my hair. I realized that applying aloevera gel is really messy but the gel dries off after a little while leaving really soft and really shiny hair. 

The best part is you can use the aloevera gel on the not-freshly washed hair to give it bounce! It can be applied everyday as well and you can use essential oils as well.

Also, when removing the gel from the leaf, the yellow parts or the green sticky messy parts should be avoided and only the clear gel be removes otherwise they get tangled in the hair.  

A quick fix to make your hair beautiful and style it in a short time is to apply Aloevera gel. Take a little of Aloevera according to your hair length in the palms and apply it to the hair. Massage some of it into the scalp and apply the rest on the hair. Pay special attention to the ends. Aloevera makes the hair sticky till it gets absorbed into the hair so you can style your hair in the mean time. It takes around 5-15 minutes for aloevera to get absorbed into the hair and does not weigh your hair down. After getting absorbed, Aloevera makes your hair shiny and bouncy.

Aloevera conditions your hair, makes hair smooth and soft and protects it from sun. It also stimulates hair growth if used on a regular basis. Aloevera can be used to moisturize hair. It is a natural humectant like honey and retains moisture. It can also be used on a daily basis. The gel from the plant can be applied directly on the hair. If bought from store, ensure that aloevera is pure and does not contain artificial additives.

Have you applied aloevera gel on your hair?

PS: The italicized paragraphs are the new updates. Rest of the post is same as it was originally published. 

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