Natural Hair & Skin Products By AfroDeity Store

I was contacted by the lovely Alicia to review some natural hair and skin products by AfroDeity.  Before I go any further, you MUST check out their website and online store.  When it comes to new companies, I always check to see whether they have a proper, fully functioning store, rather than just a random page on a social networking site.  I was extremely impressed.  Clean lines, clear directions and even a blog!  It really is an interesting website to navigate around and lose yourself in.

AfroDeity are a small, family business in the UK, which specialises in products inspired by or containing oils, herbs and butters from the Caribbean.  While communicating with Alicia, I really got the full sense of passion she had for the business.  Products were clearly researched and possibly that whole 'secret hair recipe' that had been passed down throughout generations, has possibly been used in the products.  What I also loved and yes this is going to be slightly biased, is that the products are sourced from the Caribbean (I am half Bajan and half Guyanese for those who didn't know).  This ensures that products are NATURALLY grown and contains goodness (especially from all that sun).

Samples Sent

I was sent the following hair and skin products to test from AfroDeity:

The details of what I was sent included:

Fountain Jamaican Black Castor Oil Hair Food
Fountain Pimento Oil

Sisay Creamy Flax Shampoo
Sisay Flax Conditioner
Sisay Flax Aida Moisturiser
Sisay Okra Moisturiser

Which are all from the Sisay International range.

Joliette Hair Mud Mask( Pre Shampoo Treatment) which contains Rhassoul Clay fragranced with Chocolate Truffle.
Joliette Curl Me Soft (Leave in Conditioner) fragranced with Cranberry and Pomegranate. This contains Shea Butter and Castor Oil. Great for Twist Outs.

When I received the package and opened it up, I was hit with a smell.....It smelt like I had just walked into a spa...GORGEOUS!  I was also happy that there was an information guide on each of the products and should I have encountered any problems (which I didn't), I could have consulted the informative website.

For those of you that follow me on youtube, you would know that the main problem I have been suffering with on my hair journey, was the dryness of my hair.  I therefore headed straight to the Okra Moisturizer.  It was a nice consistency, which was easily worked into the hair and didn't leave it sticky.  My hair was moisturized and I actually put it in to do a twist out, which came out well defined.

 All the products have a smell to them but only fruity smells which leaves you feeling lush.  Ok, bar from the castor oil which smells of...castor oil.  But that's a given.  I must admit, it isn't as strong as the one I regularly use, so I was happy to have it in my hair, without fear of people giving me strange looks.  I used it around my edges and scalp.  It also came with instructions as to how many times a week I should use the oil.

I haven't been able to test all the products such as the hair mask because I wanted to get what I had tried up and over to you ladies, so you could go and try them for yourselves.  What I have tried, I have been very impressed with.  For example the Pimento Oil is great for your skin, especially if you suffer from dryness.  I put a few drops in the bath and that was it for me.  I found that I didn't have to put as much lotion on my skin when I came out.  And it smells divine!

I must say, when it comes to Shampoos, I am very fussy.  Should a shampoo strip my hair to the bone, it really upsets me.  This didn't.  My hair felt conditioned and soft.  For those of you who are particularly keen to know what may be contained within some of their products, here is an example:

Chocolate Truffle Hair Mud Mask: Aqua, cocoamidopropyl betaine, organic shea butter, avocado oil, rhassoul clay, emulsifying wax NF, jojoba wax, sweet almond oil, coconut oil, vegetable glycerin, lactic acid (buttermilk powder), keratin amino acid, phenoxyethanol, xantham gum, pomegranate extract,chocolate truffle fragrance.

Curl Me Soft: Aloe Leaf Juice, Castor Oil, Organic Shea Butter, Green Tea Extract, phenoxyethanol, caribbean berry extract, melon extract.

I honestly cannot fault these products.  Kind to both hair and skin and from the same company..bonus!  I know a lot of you have been asking me what I use on my hair, well here is it.  Why not try for yourselves and let me know what you think.

Thank you again to AfroDeity.  I love both the products and the concept.  x

 AfroDeity Blog: http://www.afrodeity.co.uk/

AfroDeity Store: http://store.afrodeity.co.uk/ 

Quick Tip - Tan Those Marks Away! (stretchmarks)

You may think I'm crazy to even suggest this but remember, every little helps!  Right, most of us have stretchmarks.  I have stretchmarks.  They are not only from putting on weight but also because of weight loss.  So, to many of us, no matter what we do, those pesky lines will appear!

But fear not!  There is a way of masking them!  I came across Jergens natural Glow, which is a sort of tanning moisturisor.  The aim is to put it on your affected areas and after about a week, it gradually creates a natural looking colour.  No, you won't be walking about like an extra from The Only Way Is Essex, you would have simply helped to fade the appearance of the lines.

This particular one is in 'medium to tan skin tones'.  I actually picked this up in the States, but you can get this from Boots or Superdrug I do believe.

Try it!  See if it works for you.

Short Hair, Don't Care??

Before I started my hair journey, I undertook A LOT of research.  From hair care to routines, to product supplies, I wanted to ensure that I was physically and mentally ready for this new beginning...a new dawn as they would say.  What inspired me the most, was seeing that actually, black women CAN grow their hair long!  I must admit, I'm not adverse to this.  My girl cousins have long hair and only because they look after it.  As a child, my hair was good in terms of health and length but as soon as I look over the reigns to care for my hair, that was it!

If I'm honest, I didn't really pay particular attention to my own hair.  If it was in a weave, it was in a weave!  I didn't like trying to navigate beyond tracks to grease my scalp, so I just left it.  The only attention my hair would get, was 3 (yes, I said 3) months later when I finally decided to take that particular weave style out!  So fast forward to 3ish months ago when I thought enough was enough and I had to look after my hair, before I started to lose it or something.

I remember watching some YouTube videos where women would talk about the frustrations of their hair journey and yup...I'm at that stage.  I am happy to say I am trying with all my might to leave the negativity behind but I feel that I could create cute styles, etc if my hair was just that little bit longer.  However, I have vowed to forget about the length and concentrate on having hair upon my head!  So many people don't!

So, short hair, don't care?  I admit I do a little.  Only because I feel that my face suits longer lengths.  Not everyone has the face for shorter dos.  However, as part of my 'love my short hair journey', I have documented it by taking pictures and sharing it on instagram.  And actually...I don't look half bad :)

My Instagram:- whatdawndidinheels

Outfit Of The Day

 

 

 

Jumper: H&M (new collection)

Wet Look Jeggings: Boohoo.com

Shoes: Ebay

Necklace: Aurora (find them on twitter and facebook)

I love casual Friday at work. Gives me a chance to see what people really wear in the outside world.  It also gives me a chance to put my fashion heel forward and express my own self.

This week, I went to look at the Lana Del Rey collection at H&M.  While browsing, I came across the jumper above.  It's short at the front and long at the back, in keeping with the trend that is currently upon us.  I dressed it up with the spiked necklace and to give it that extra edge, I paired it with the multi buckle shoe boot.  See previous blog for details.

 

The search for a great, Afro hair salon..is on!

So I'm taking time out from my busy, waiting-for-my-hairdresser-to-start-my-hair period, to write this blog. If you follow me on my YouTube channel, you will know that I expressed my opinion about going to black hair salons. The majority of the comments agreed that black hair salons needed to step up their game in the industry, when it came to customer service. There was 100% no denying that the black hair stylists within these salons were talented, it was the places and sometimes their own attitudes which let themselves down.

I used to travel all the way to Brixton to go to this one hair salon because the hairdresser/stylist was amazing. She knew how to care for my hair and knew exactly HOW I liked it styled, etc. However, the one thing that used to get on my last nerve was her attitude towards my time. She was forever late! A process that should like up to 3-4 hours, took from 10am( me waiting), to me leaving at 6pm! I kid you not. The salon had seen better days, it was a bit dodgy but she was great. We ALL knew that because she would have people queuing outside the door! Again, I kid you not!

But five years on, copious amounts spent on topping up the parking metre and eventually a car parking fine..I was done! I had to end our 'relationship' because my plans on a Saturday had to be pushed back as she didn't value my time.

Now that I'm on my natural hair journey, I look after my hair much more than I did while in the weave and therefore, I want a salon that both respects my natural hair( in terms of advising me and treating it) and my time. I no longer want a grubby salon where stylists feel the need to take a lunch break right in the middle of doing my hair, or ones that don't even write down my appointment time! I'm officially done with that!

I've found a half decent salon in my area, but I'm still not satisfied. They don't treat my hair, I always have to bring my own products and to top it off, I was told by the stylist that I should relax my hair!!! You should not be advising me of such, when I have specifically highlighted my hair journey and WHY I am now natural! So, are you a GOOD hair salon? Do you want to show me how you are breaking stereotypes in the hair industry? Get in touch. I really want to vlog a video which blows all stereotypes out of the water and show people that not all black hair salons are back-a-yard grubby get ups!

Come on! Let's start changing!!

Sleek Be Beautiful Blemish Balm

I can't tell you how excited I was when I heard Sleek was bringing out their own BB Cream.  Women of colour in the UK rejoiced, as many of us had experienced the wash of ash cloud type BB Creams, which other makeup brands had brought out.  Props to them for bringing out the colour dark, but as there are so many different shades of 'dark', their dark just didn't cut it!

The BB Cream comes in 4 shades:

 

                                                    Fair           Light            Medium            Dark

Looking at my colouring, it was clear to see that I would be more suited towards the medium shade.  Here is the actual product on my hand.

The cream itself states that it is full coverage with an SPF of 15, which is great.  As I suffer from an oily T-zone, there is nothing worse than me having to pile on a ridiculous amount of product, even before I have started to put my face on.

I want to show you how the product looked on me, with a before and after type look.  Here was me before I started the process (please don't be scared):

So that's me.  No makeup.  Nothing.  I then applied the BB Cream direct, using a foundation brush.  I didn't use much of the product because I hate the feeling of wearing too much makeup:

This is the result.  I must say, it went on so smooth and it's really, REALLY blendable!  A little really does go on a long way.  The consistency reminded me of MACs tinted moisturiser, but less sticky.  I did feel however, that the medium was a tad too dark for me.  If there was a shade for the dark skin tones which sat just before the medium, I think that would have been perfect for me.

I therefore decided to even out the colour, by using MACs Mineralize Skinfinish Natural, in colour Medium Deep.  I finished off my face using a bit of concealer and made up my eyes:

So far, I haven't had to use any of my blot powders to combat oiliness on my skin, which is great.  One of the main purposes for me buying this product, is that I shall be on holiday soon and I want a 'foundation' which can withstand the heat.  I can honestly say that I feel as though I'm wearing nothing with this product.

My next experiment will be to wear this product and set it with MACS prep and prime, as this is how I intend to use it on holiday.

So far, so good ladies.  I love it and at £8.99, it certainly beats having to spend over £20 on a foundation!

Let me know what you think if you've purchased Sleek's BB Cream.

Quick think: “Are you talking to ME?” R.E.S.P.E.C.T in the work place.

I’ll be honest….I’m not having the best of weeks at work andit’s only Tuesday!  Something which happened to me yesterday had me questioning the respect (or lack of respect) we have towards our colleagues.   Is it a case of respect should be dependent upon your job title?  For example, if I were the CEO of my company,do I have every right to talk to my employees as if they were mere peasants?  I don’t think so!  Or is it ok for that lady who has been therefor 20 years plus, to swan around the floor like she owns the place?  No, no, no!!

I personally feel respect is born out of the environment you work within.  Different companies have different ‘work cultures’, which helps gauge their employees to work in a certain way.  Of course, people are people and you’ll never be able to change their personal attitudes.  If Bob is not a cheery and welcoming person in the outside world, I doubt his disposition is going to change within stressful, working environment.  However,I do believe that companies have a responsibility to nurture working environments and that includes the people within it.  No company wants to have a reputation of having demoralised staff with high turnovers. They want to be roaming with the big shooters, sitting pretty in those ‘top100 companies’ lists and boasting about high performance levels within.

Is money a factor? Yes!  I believe that the more a company invests in their employees, the more they will get out of them.  Employees would be happy to work, morale is high,they bring in the best result and bosses are happy.  Thus, the circle of working life keeps turning.  Yes, there will always be that one person with the bad attitude but when the majority of people are happy within their working environment, watch how people will hold each other with high regard.

Money talks…and in big businesses this is evident.  Money buys their employees happiness.

Monday Morning Blues

Today I just wanted to feel super girly.  Having had a puffed up face all of last week, I was finally starting to feel half human again.  So I threw on the most girly dress I own and rocked it.

 

Dress: House of Fraser / Belt: Primark / Heels: New Look

 

I just love the navy blue colour and also, the fact that it has this beautiful pattern on the material:

 

There is something elegant and enriching about this dress.  The shape stands proud on its own and to give it more definition, I always team it up with a waist belt.

My face was kept simple today.  I used the 2True lipgloss in colour 9 (as found in Superdrug) and on top of that, I placed the ELF lipstick pen in colour coral.

And as always, I used a simple, black eyeliner and the brown colour from an H&M pallet - nothing special at all.

To finish, I wore this cross.  I bought it through the Pinky Promise website.  My reasons for wearing it, is to draw strength upon throughout the day.  Our lives are tested each day and for me, it's a reminder that everything will be ok.

Hope you all have a great week.

Dawn x

Lunchtime thought - Why I work out

Since flashing (not intentionally) my stomach in a recent outfit of the day, I received a lot of comments and questions in relation to my workout regime. I will be doing an updated fitness video, so you are welcome to take hints and tips from that once it's uploaded. Anyways...one of my followers asked me why I worked out. "To stay in shape" I told her. But after thinking about it, my reasons were so much more than that.

My main workout is Zumba. I love dancing about and I always WANT to do it, rather than feeling it's a chore to put on my clothes and participate. I started working out well over a year ago and my main reason at the time was to tone up, so I felt (and looked) a bit better. With Zumba, I noticed the results quickly and was extremely happy. However, what I also noticed was that I wasn't as susceptible to illnesses anymore. I used to find that I would pick up a cold and be wiped out for a week. Now, I may feel rough for a day or two, but that's about it (with the exception of my recent viral infection- that was a nasty bug which went round work).

I think it's also important for ladies to keep themselves in shape for their man. Sometimes when you get comfortable in a relationship, you can start to slip when it comes to appearance. It's easily done and very often, you don't even notice it. So often you'd hear a lady saying that she wants her man looking right 'n' tight but then you'd look at her and think....you need to sort yourself out first love, before letting your expectations run wild!

So for all those reasons above and of course, wanting to prolong my life, I work out! And I feel so much better for it! If you don't work out, try something that may interest you. Get the old heart ticking ;).

Sizzlin' Sunday

England has been hit with a crazy heat wave this weekend.  It's currently 84*F and I'm NOT complaining!  I can't think of anything more satisfying than being able to just chill out, with the sun beating down on me.......drink in one hand and a snack in the next....bliss!

Being Sunday, I opted for an uber casual look.  Heavy clothes are not an option in this weather:

          Boob Tube: H&M (current stock) / Shorts:Matalan /Wedges: Primark / Necklace: Aurora B


Oh...these are the wedges I mentioned in my 'Ebay Queen' post.  I absolutely love them and really wished I had purchased the black pair too.  Oh well!

My face:

With our heat, comes mugginess and it's horrible, sticky and unpleasant!  I therefore cannot wear heavy foundation, as I start to resemble melted chocolate!  What I have gone for today is Mac's tinted moisturiser and set it with Mac's Skinfinish natural.  It gives you the look of makeup, without your face feeling like you've caked it on. 

My eyes have been done using a brown pallet from H&M and lashes with Rimmel's Lash Accelerator mascara.

As you can see, I'm still rocking my fro fro.  Absolutely love the look it gives me.  To see my full review, click here.

Enjoy the sun while it still lasts!!  Don't think we'll be seeing it for the bank holiday next weekend :(

Smooth Skin... With Help From Superdrug

Superdrug is the only place I shop at when it comes to beauty products.  I simply love their Tea Tree range and normally, you can buy them on a 3 for 2 offer. 

I start my routine by using the facial scrub.  I then follow up by washing my face with the facial wash.  My problem area at the moment is my nose, so I have bought the cleansing pads and strips to help combat any blemishes.

I also use the Tea Tree facial toner, just to finish everything off. 

Ebay Queen

If you know me, you'd know that I LOVE Ebay!  Why?  Because it allows me to find bargains that are unique and best of all, kind to the old pockets.

I started Ebaying in 2004, while I was still at Uni and money was an issue (as with all students).  Not only was I buying, but selling too.  Thankfully, those days are behind me but I do like to have a little Ebay splurge now and again.

If you are familiar with my YouTube channel, I have purchased quite a bit from Ebay recently, due to the fact that I have an impending holiday.  I want to share with you a few pieces I have recently bought and all of which I shall be throwing together an OOTD to show you the full effect:

The Statement Belt  

I am in LOVE with this belt!!!!  Being able to cinch in your waist, just gives an outfit a whole other dimension.  Being able to cinch in your waist with THIS belt is just.....ohhhh!  You can purchase it here.  It comes in either the wide or thin.  I purchased the wide.  Can't wait to put it with an outfit!

The Multi Buckle Shoe/Boot 

I'm a complete sucker for these!  A few years ago, I bought a tan pair from Primark and to this day, they are still going strong.  I stupidly didn't buy the black version, until I found these on Ebay!!  They are only £10, so you really can't go wrong.  I shall be teaming these up with a pair of shorts I recently purchased from Boohoo.com.  You can buy these shoe/boots from here.

The Bodycon Dress

I have just 'discovered' mustard is the colour for me!  And pair this with a bodycon dress and it's a match made in heaven.  Yes, these are all over the high street, but not for £3.85!!  Yes, you are seeing that price correctly!  Buy yours here.

The Peplum Top  

A lot of people are still asking me about this top.  Here is the exact link to the one I bought.  They are unbelievably classy and sophisticated.  I love dressing mine up and using the Moschino belt to finish it off.

And A Blog You Shall Have!

I'm not a writer...I tend to leave the world of writing as soon as 5pm comes at work.  However, my YouTube subbies, companies and people who have come across me, keep asking whether I have a blog.  I kept thinking to myself...what with Youtube, a Facebook page AND Twitter, how am I going to have time to write on a blog?!  Well damn it!  I'll make time!  And what with me camera snapping away every 5 seconds, it makes sense for me to document my pictures somewhere.

Hope you enjoy and of course, I will link YouTube videos on here also.

Dawn x