Last year, I was sent a brand package of hair care products with a shower gel for review and because it's a range of products, it took me awhile to test them all out properly to write my experience with it.

Now, I'm glad to announce that I'm ready to share!

The brand  is KA’FEN, established in 2010 with the aim to deliver the best haircare product to all, is very popular in Taiwan.

With more than 3 decades in the salon industry, KA'FEN has been through the changes in the industry and still continues to strive and produce haircare products of the highest quality standards. KA’FEN's research and development have created a haircare product that revives the hair's vitality, locks-in the moisture and nourishes the hair to fight against environmental damages.

KA’FEN’s shampoo and treatment does not contain dimethicone which will clog up the hair pores if it is not washed away throughly. KA’FEN’s Impression series unique hyaluronic acid moisturising factor has a softening effect to balance the scalp oil secretion, reduce scalp discomfort, effectively relieve and improve dry scalp. These help to maintain the scalp in a healthy state and at the same time increase hair softness.

Sounds really wonderful, doesn't it?

Continue reading for my review!

KA'FEN Shower Gel

A new improved cleansing formula that cleanses the skin gently and provides a sensational feel after wash. This shower gel nourishes the skin with nutrients to give the best care you deserve, improves the condition of dryness increasing skin moisture retention and smoothness, and cleanses effectively which helps to revitalize the elasticity and radiance of the skin.

To Use:

Pump an appropriate amount onto hand, wash cloth or sponge. 

Gently lather, then rinse off.

VERDICT

Texture: Gel, forms a light lather

Smell: Scent of rose and jasmine

Benefits:

1. Improves dry skin that lack moisture
2. Increases skin moisture retention and smoothness
3. Open up the pores on skin and remove dead skin cells
4. Revitalize the skin’s elasticity
5. Increase the radiancy of the skin.

Ingredients:

Water, Glycerin, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Sodium Hydroxypropyl Starch Phosphate, Hydrogenated Soybean Oil, Lauric Acid, Sodium Cocoyl Glycinate, Sodium Chloride, Stearic Acid, Sodium Lauroyl Isethionate, Citric Acid, Fragrance, Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Tallow Acid, Palmitic Acid, Sodium Isethionate, Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate, Etidronic Acid, Titanium Dioxide.

Cost: SG$23 for 250ml, SG$59 for 760ml

Product Rating: 10/10

I've got nothing negative to write about this shower gel. I love how it leaves skin scented and cleansed without drying out my skin, it's free from SLS so that's good. Overall, the ingredients are friendly and I have no negative experience from using this. It smells great to the point where I walked out of the shower and my mum asked, "what's that smell? So nice" and I told her that it's my shower gel and she ended using it too~ Haha!

KA’FEN Absolute Hair Care Series 

To Use:

Pump an appropriate amount onto palm. Lather the shampoo and apply it to the wet hair and rinse off completely.

* For optimal result, best use with One-Minute Treatment.

Avoid contact with eyes.

Repairing Shampoo 

This shampoo contains essential essences that awakens the absorption power of the scalp to keep hair invariably hydrated and soft, stabilizes and control scalp oil secretion to improves the condition of dry scalp, and moisturize to eliminate tangling and smooth out the hair. It also has added sheen and softness, while minimizing breakage and controlling frizz. 

Highly recommended for people with damaged hair.

VERDICT

Texture: Lightest consistency of a milky gel than the other 2 shampoos that lathers up very well without over cleansing scalp and hair.

Smell: Similar scent to the shower gel but I can't pinpoint the scent. 

Benefits:

1. Repair dry and damaged hair
2. Revitalize the health of the hair
3. Nourish and hydrate the hair
4. Smooth out and soften the hair making it more manageable

Ingredients:
De-Ionized Water, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate, Coco-Glucoside,
Cocamidopropyl, Betaine, Glycerin, Polyquaternium-10, Quaternium-80, Parfum, Sodium Isostearoyl Lactylate, Sodium Lauroyl Hydrolized Silk, Carbomer, Hyaluronic Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Behentrimonium Chloride, Citric Acid, Pottasium Hydroxide.

Cost: SG$22 for 250ml, SG$38 for 760ml

Product Rating: 9/10
It does work as claimed, my hair is more manageable after use. I find that it helps to keep split ends at bay and my hair appears stronger after use. The scent of this is nice, as with all KA'FEN products but the scent doesn't last long. 

Refresh Shampoo 

The Refresh shampoo helps to eliminate dandruff to maintain a clean and healthy scalp, contains botanical extracts that helps reduce bacteria growth, keep the hair less oily and retards the aging of hair. This shampoo is suitable for people with oily or dandruff hair.

VERDICT

Texture: Milky gel that lathers up very well without over cleansing scalp and hair 

Smell: Same scent as the other shampoos, with a hint of tea tree oil

Benefits:

1. Reduce dandruff
2. Control and balance the oil secretion on hair scalp
3. Repair damaged hair
4. Revitalize the health of the hair
5. Nourish and hydrate the hair
6. Smooth and soften the hair making it more manageable

Ingredients:
De-Ionized Water, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Sodium Lauroyl Glutamate, Coco-Glucoside,
Cocamidopropyl, Betaine, Glycerin, Polyquaternium-10, Quaternium-80, Parfum, Sodium Isostearoyl Lactylate, Sodium Lauroyl Hydrolized Silk, Carbomer, Hyaluronic Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Behentrimonium Chloride, Humulus Lupulus (Hops) Extract, Tea Tree Extract, Citric Acid, Pottasium Hydroxide.

Cost: SG$22 for 250ml, SG$38 for 760ml

Product Rating: 7/10
As a shampoo, this works well at cleansing without the squeaky sensation. However, as with the other shampoos, I find that it leaves the hair scented for a short duration only. I have a pretty oily scalp (who doesn't in a climate like Singapore) and I find that while it does remove the oiliness after washing, it doesn't help to make a significant improvement at reducing sebum production on my scalp.

Permed/Colored Hair Shampoo 

This shampoo helps to repair cuticles that were damaged by chemicals, and balance the pH level of the scalp in-order to amplify the new hair color, and leaves a protective coating to prevent color fading, and keep hair silky, smooth and soft texture after perming. It is also formulated to rejuvenate the inner hair structure so that it feels light on the root and nourished at the ends for a sumptuously soft and wavy hair; and contains active wheat protein, amino acid, and anti-UV mask and pigment motes to prevent ultraviolet radiation from harming the color of the hair and slow down the fading of the color. 

Suitable for people with coloured and permed hair.

VERDICT

Texture: Thickest consistency of milky gel from the other 2 shampoos that lathers up very well without over cleansing scalp and hair 

Smell: Similar scent as the other shampoos, but with a sharper scent note.

Benefits:

1. Amplify and enhance the vibrancy of the hair colour
2. Repair the hair cuticles that were damaged by the chemicals when perming and dyeing of hair
3. Revitalize the health of the hair
4. Nourish and hydrate the hair
5. Smooth and soften the hair making it more manageable

Ingredients:
De-Ionized Water, Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Methyl Cocoyl Taurate, Glycol Distearate, Lactamide MEA, Fragrance/Parfum, Creatine, PEG-200 Hydrogenated Glyceryl Palmate, Laureth-23, Tetrasodium EDTA, Polyquaternium-22, Polyquaternium-47, Behenyl Alcohol, PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, Laureth-4, PEG-150 Pentaerythrityl Tetrasterate, PEG-6 Caprylic/Capric Glycerides, Limonene, Hexyl Cinnamal, Linalool, Ciotronellol.

Cost: SG$22 for 250ml, SG$38 for 760ml

Product Rating: 8/10
I saw no difference in the vibrancy of my hair colour after use, but I have to note that it helps to maintain the condition and health of my hair despite being bleached in certain parts. The scent doesn't seem to last for long too.

Deep Recovery Treatment 

A protective mask formulated to put a stop to external factors that were causing the hair and scalp to lose their individual good traits. This treatment mask reconstructs the inner hair structure and awakens the absorption power of the scalp to restore and rejuvenate the cuticles for a more voluminous, denser and manageable hair. Enriched with Vitamin C and Ketoconazole, this mask effectively cleanse away scurf germs and eliminates dandruff completely.

Suitable for all hair type, and recommended to be use with its similar series shampoo to achieve optimal result.

To Use:

After shampoo, work through lengths and tips. Leave on for 1 minute, then rinse off thoroughly. (Avoid the scalp)

* For best results, use it with Absolute Hair Care Series shampoo.

VERDICT

Texture: Light creamy texture

Smell: Scent of rose and jasmine

Benefits: 

1. Reconstructs the inner hair structure
2. Awakens the absorption power of the scalp
3. Restore and rejuvenate the hair cuticles
4. Amplify a denser and manageable hair
5. Revitalize the health of the hair
6. Nourish and hydrate the hair
7. Smooth out and soften the hair making it more manageable

Ingredients:
De-Ionized Water, Cetearyl Alcohol, Octafluoropentyl Methacrylate, Behentrimonium Chloride, Fragrance/Parfum, Quaternium-87, Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Sebacic ACid Copolymer, Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Hydrolized Wheat Protein, Ceteareth-25, Citric Acid, Limonene, Hexyl Cinnamal, Linalool, Citronellol, Butylphenyl Methylpropional.

Cost: SG$22 for 250ml, SG$38 for 760ml

Product Rating: 10/10
This really works well at untangling knots and always leaves my hair feeling soft after use despite how light this treatment feels. I had hairspray and my hair was backcombed for a shoot recently, and I was surprised to note how easy I managed to untangle the knots with the use of this. I love this treatment!

Desire Argan Oil

This oil enhances the repair effect of the hair, restores the hair’s elasticity and locks-in hair moisture. After application, it does not feel greasy on the hair and hand.

To achieve optimal result, use with KA’FEN series haircare product as it will intensify your hair’s condition to achieve an even smoother and more manageable hair.

To Use:

Warm a few drops of serum on your palms and distribute evenly throughout clean, towel-dried hair, concentrating on the ends. Comb through, style, and have a grogeous day!

Use when hair is wet:

It will form a protective layer over the hair to prevent the hair from getting further damages from the external environment.

Use when hair is dry:

Prevent hair breakages, split ends and making the hair smoother and manageable.

VERDICT

Texture: Oil, but doesn't feel greasy or leaves hair/skin feeling oily

Smell: Sweet scent of the oil blends

Benefits:

1. Repair dry and damaged hair
2. Enhance the hair glow
3. Nourish and lock-in the moisturize of the hair
4. Strengthen the protection to hair damages

Ingredients: Argan Oil, Jojoba Oil, Avacado Oil, Vitamin E, Phenyl Trimethicone, Organic Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis Seed oil, Persea Gratissima Oil, Vitis Vinifera Seed Oil, Olea Europaea Fruit Oil, Cirtus Aurantium Bergamia Fruit Oil, Geranium Maculatum Oil, Ethylhexylglycerin, Caprylyl Glycol.

Cost: SG$25 for 100ml

Product Rating: 10/10
I love this! It really helps to keep my hair tangle free, and trust me... that's a challenging thing to accomplish with the amount of hair I have.

This oil helps to freshen up the scent of my hair too after a long hot day, if you know what I mean... without leaving the hair greasy. I like the smell of this! I find that this also helps to tame my frizz and nourish the bleached parts of my hair to prevent tangles too!

The best part is that it doesn't leave the hands feeling oily or sticky after applying it to the hair, this oil gets absorbed really quickly!

Where to get these products?

Head over to this online shop here to get them now!

Hi, peeps!

If you have been following me on Instagram, you would have known that I went purple!

Under harsh lights

It was a bold decision for me because I have a dad who is very strict when it comes to the colour of my hair. I was brought up with the notion that as an asian, I should be proud of my natural hair colour... and my dad always make comments like "If you ever come home with this kind of hair colour (especially blond), be prepared to wake up to a bald head".

So I had a very specific request to Jesly, the Creative Director of Picasso, I want colour but it has to look refined with a kick of character.

THE PROCESS

Picasso’s Welcome

Choose your drink from a selection of drinks and receive a warm hand towel with hand cream. I always stick to Ice Lemon Tea~ 

Understand your scalp and hair

Picasso's hair designers will do a quick diagnosis of your scalp and hair.

I was told that my hair is quite healthy but I needed to dedicate some effort in keeping them hydrated.

Understand your skin tone for the most appropriate hair color

Picasso's hair designers will analyze your skin tone to determine what shades of color will fit your skin tone. I have a neutral skin tone, meaning that my veins have both green and blue shades.

Design your hairstyle with Picasso's stylist

Picasso's hair designers will discuss and design a hairstyle for your according to you preference and lifestyle. So, I told Jesly my preference and she made a sketch of her plan.

Here's the plan of my new purple hairdo!

Transformation At Work

Work in Progress

Duration: 4 hours 46 mins

Sitting on the chair for hours made me feel like an evil minion. Haha!

Service: 

With this being my second time at Picasso, I've got to say that their service standard is constant and even the female hair dresser that I wrote about in my first post (here) has improved. In fact, despite not being her client, she noticed a blob of hair dye on the side of my face and pointed it out to get it wiped off before it stains my skin purple. So~ Thumbs up for being so aware of my situation even though she was busy with her own client.

Estimated Price Range: $60 for Hair cut, $129 for highlights, $129 for colour, $89 for bleaching

Love how sublime the colour is!

Results: I had a trim and layers that removed most of the perm I had previously, by Jesly. For colour, I went with a deep purple and highlights that was more purplish than the rest of the colour.

OVERALL

I love how sublime the colour is in general, it is only when I'm under the sunlight or if there is  bright light source that the colours will reveal itself. In fact, my family didn't notice a change to my hair colour until they saw me in daylight! Hahahaha~ 

It took me 2 tries to get this colour because the first time round, it didn''t turn out the way Jesly wanted because my hair wasn't absorbing the colour. But I'm glad that she got it right on the second session.

A thing to take note if you are new to colours, is that the colour will fade over time and it will stain everything and anything if the hair isn't completely dry. Rain was my worst nightmare when I'm in a light colour top!

Before: Dark brown with perm
After: Deep purple with hints of red-purple and copper

Current Promotion:

Colour + Intensive Hair Treatment - $199

Cut + Intensive Hair Treatment - $149

Valid til the end of Feb 2016.

Location & Contact No.

39 Haji Lane

Tel: 6291 0691

Opening Hours

Mon-Sun, 11am to 9pm

For more information, head to Picasso Hair Salon!

2 weeks ago, I had the opportunity to get my hair done by the up and coming Hair Salon in Haji Lane, Picasso Hair Studio.

Since its inception late last year, Picasso Hair Studio have been gaining a reputation for its hair perming and hair colouring art services. SO like a true beauty blogger, I had to try their service out!

Location & Contact No.

39 Haji Lane

Tel: 6291 0691

Opening Hours

Mon-Sun, 11am to 9pm

Before: It was a perfect timing for a new haircut/hairstyle because my hairstyle has lost its shape and was starting to look dull.

THE PROCESS

Picasso’s Welcome

Choose your drink from a selection of drinks and receive a warm hand towel with hand cream!

Understand your scalp and hair

Picasso's hair designers will do a through diagnosis of your scalp and hair.

Understand your face shape for the best hairstyle

Picasso's hair designers will analyze your face shape to determine the best haircut/perm/rebond to complement your face shape.

Design your hairstyle with Picasso's stylist

Picasso's hair designers will discuss and design a hairstyle for your according to you preference and lifestyle.

Transformation At Work

Work in Progress

We got started with a wash first before I got my haircut.

Then it was the application of a pre-chemical lotion (a protein spray) to protect and strengthen hair before the softening process that preps the hair for curling. I had the curling rollers on for roughly 22 minutes before the curls were shaped and styled with a flat iron. Then it was time to set the curls with a solution for another 20 minutes before it was washed it off and ended with a hair treatment to seal things off.

Aftercare Tips & Photo Time

Picasso's hair designer will take some time to share some basic aftercare requirements for your hairstyle. Once done, hop over to their photo area in front of their wall mural for a quick photoshoot to be part of Picasso's collection of hairstyles.

VERDICT

Duration: A little more than 4 hours for a haircut and a combination of styling and rebounding perm.

Ambiance: It has a very clean artsy feel to the whole salon because that is their concept! I like how the mirror is set on an easel-inspired table and our finished look is the "Art Piece".

Service: I was very pleased with the greeting I got from the moment I stepped into the salon. I was warmly greeted, given a drink menu to choose a beverage of my choice that was served in a very interesting "cup", and served with a warm hand towel tray with a hand cream.

Once I was seated and ready to start on my transformation, Jeremy, the hair designer that was assigned to me start the process by finding out what I wanted for my new look and gave his recommendation based on my face shape, condition of my hair and scalp and drew it out on the consultation slip. 

He was very meticulous in explaining to me the process, and in ensuring me that it was not the final look of the perm until we were really done. Plus, he even checked if I was hungry and served me milo and some snacks to munch on.

I love the extra step taken by Picasso to ensure that once their customer walks out of the door, they can always return if they have any issues with their new hairstyle, and how they educate their customer on how to care for their new hairdo. I was taught how to blow dry and style my hair to maintain my curls, which was a first experience for me.

Price Range: $45 for my hair cut, and $299 for the perm

Results:  I got rid of my dry ends and coloured portion so now, I'm down to my shoulder with an almost virgin hair once again! Yup, I grew out all my coloured portion! And I had a gentle perm towards the ends to mimic my usual waviness but in an more organised/styled manner.

OVERALL

I am very pleased with the results, in fact, I'm totally comfortable with the results and have no issues adjusting to my new look despite the fact that this is the first time getting perms! I love how they are very through with their consultation, even taking the step to draw the concept out. 

The only negative feedback I have is with one of their hair designer that I find her hair washing skills and hair care mannerism a little off-putting. She did my hair wash towards the end and the issues I had with her was firstly she started washing my hair immediately with slightly hot water without testing the temperature (only to realise later that it was quite hot and asked me how I feel about the temperature before lowering it) and she had her fingernails scratching my scalp as she washed... which to me is a novice mistake. The other portion that caught my attention was when she was serving another customer, she used a hair brush to comb out the customer's wet hair and the customer was horrified at the way she was combing out. I feel the customer's horror because I thought that we shouldn't comb hair like that when it's wet because it will break... which was the customer's concern but that hair designer denied it, saying that it's alright until Jeremy voiced out to use a wide tooth comb to comb the hair out instead. But if you ask me, it made no difference because I saw her yanking the customer's hair out with that comb...

That being said, this is the first encounter I have with a hair salon that takes their aftercare services seriously, to the point of letting the customers have a hand at styling their own new hairdo at the end to allow them to know how to care for it on their own. They were very precise in their instructions too, and here's my aftercare notes:

Aftercare How To Style Guide:

1. Apply sculpting lotion to wet hair
2. Blow dry hair as per normal until it's 80% dry (Heat: hot, full blast)
3. Split hair to 2 sections, more if I want more curls
4. Loosely twist hair (twice or once) outwards and cup it with hand while directing the blowdryer down into them (Heat: medium, full/ medium blast)
5. Run fingers through once done to loosen up the curls for a more natural finish

So based on my overall experience, I definitely highly recommend having Jeremy as your hair designer if you are looking for a new hairdo and Picasso as the salon for natural looking perms!

Special Promotion for Mefitters!

 Be a Mefitters today and receive a 20% discount off Ala Carte services, excluding promotion packages! Simply flash your Mefitted profile to claim for your discount. 

*Valid for First-timer Mefitters only.

This post has been brought to you by Mefitted.com, the world's first interactive directory for grooming, beauty and style.

Hi Ladies!

As a Mefitter of Mefitted.com, I was invited to review the service of Prep.

So what is Prep?

 PREP is Singapore's first Blowout only hair salon.

Wash, massage, blow-dry and you're prepped to go.

Their blowout style ranges from the classic blowout to intricate up-dos to customized styles.

Opening Hours

Mon-Thu: 10-9 / Fri-Sat: 10-8 / Sun: 11:30-7:30

Location

333A Orchard Road, #03-34 Mandarin Gallery, Singapore 238897

VERDICT

Disclaimer: Ok, before I dive into my verdict~ I need to declare that I didn't do the full service. Reason being is that I had a confusion with my booking and the venue, so I ended up being late and only had my hair styled. 

Duration: Just for the styling, close to 45mins but I figured it really depends on individual too. Your hair length, thickness and blowout style will make a difference.

Ambiance: It has quite a clean modern organic ambiance. The chair is comfy to sit in too, which is very important!

Service: I received a call from them when I was making my way to the salon, the lady who called me was very rude and she just ended the phone mid way when she asked me to be on hold while she was supposed to check with her colleague to see if they can still fit me into their schedule. 

After I reached and we got over the little hiccup of clashed appointments due to my late arrival~ Things got back on track, and the hairstylist that was doing my hair was helpful in recommending different aspects of the hairstyle I wanted to suit my features, and work on my hair until I was satisfied.

I would have loved if they did a confirmation of my booking a few days in advance, as a standard practice, because the booking wasn't done by me personally... hence the confusion but it's a minor thing. Overall, I had a good experience with their service because it was saved by the one who did my hair.

Price: Ranges from $45 to $220 (Click here to view services and price)

Results: I wanted a 1920s hairdo to match the theme of "Time Travel" for #OMYSBA2015 Event Night and here's the outcome:

OVERALL

If given that I have done the full service, perhaps I would be able to provide more feedback on the benefits of the wash and perhaps it would make a difference in how my hair would be blown-dried (my style was achieved with a hot iron). I could tell that the results weren't long lasting because some of my hair was losing its curls before the event even ended and I had quite a lot of frizz but I'm satisfied with the look achieved and will consider trying Prep out again for other events!

This post has been brought to you by Mefitted.com, the world's first interactive directory for grooming, beauty and style.

In a climate like Singapore, it is very common to find yourself having oily scalp... and at the same if you dye your hair quite a lot, it's common to find yourself having dry damaged ends.

And apparently, there is a new term to describe a hair condition like that, yup~ It's called "combination hair" that is pretty much the same as "combination skin"!

With that being said, Essential claims to have found the perfect solution to Combination Hair with their Light Finish Volumizing and Deep Cleansing Care Hair care! With the optimum combination of Smart Cuticle Care & Sebum Cleansing Technology, you can now achieve moisturized hair ends while maintaining a refreshed breathable scalp!

And now, for a limited time only, Essential is also giving out a massage shampoo brush with purchase of their shampoo and conditioner!

A massage shampoo brush is a common hair care tool in Japan and is used to help remove dirt and sebum more effectively from the scalp. The massaging action on the scalp is said to improve blood circulation and promote relaxation.

To Use:

Shampoo

Massage onto wet hair to lather. Hold brush handle between index and third finger and rub the bristles onto scalp gently from side to side with small movements. Do not move the brush in circular motions as this will cause tangles.

Rinse off completely.

Conditioner

After shampooing, gently massage conditioner onto hair. Rinse off completely. 

Suitable for daily use.

VERDICT

Texture: Both shampoo varies differently from each other, and so does their conditioner... but that being said, they both feels the same to me.

Smell:  Both have floral scents

Ingredients:

Shampoo- Water (Aqua), Ammonium Laureth Sulfate, Alcohol, Laureth-4 Carboxylic Acid, Lauryl Hydroxysultaine, Isodecyl Glyceryl Ether, Fragrance (Parfum), PPG-3 Caprylyl Ether, Polyquaternium-10, Benzyl Alcohol, Sodium Hydroxide, PPG-7, Citric Acid, Lauramidopropyl Betaine, Malic Acid, Laureth-16, Polyquaternium-52, Lanolin Acid, BHT, Sodium Benzoate, Phenoxyethanol, CI 42090

Conditioner- Water (Aqua), Stearyl Alcohol, Cetyl Alcohol, Dimethicone, Dipropylene Glycol, Behentrimonium Chloride, Alcohol, Fragrance (Parfum), Isopropyl Palmitate, Lactic Acid, Steartrimonium Chloride, Di-C12-18 Alkyl Dimonium Chloride, Amodimethicone, Benzyl Alcohol, Isopropyl Alcohol, Stearoxypropyl Dimethy

Cost: $19.60 for Shampoo 750ml + Conditioner 750ml with free Massage Shampoo Brush (hot pink or mint green) from mid-May 2015

Product Rating: 6/10
I found the massage shampoo brush very intriguing because I have heard and seen it before but I have never tried and put it to the test. So, I decided to test the effectiveness of using the massage shampoo brush compared to normal fingers.

To represent sebum and "clogged pores" on the scalp, I used a semi-waterproof kajal eyeliner because it's oil-based, hard to budge and dark & visible enough to see.

So one on side, I used the pads of my finger with Essential's Deep Cleansing Care shampoo to attempt to wash the eyeliner away; on the other side, I used the massage shampoo brush.

The result? Yes, the brush does make a difference in removal and it does boost circulation to the area (as seen by the redness of my skin).

As for the shampoos, I am very skeptic of them because I read ingredients. Ammonium Laureth Sulfate is a better alternative to SLS, so I will close an eye on it... but what's Alcohol doing so high up in the list?!

So for conditioner, a glance at the ingredient lists the top few are all mostly hydrating/moisturizing ingredients... but there is also alcohol in it.. which is weird, isn't it? Can anybody explain the use of it in such products? Does it help to preserve or stabilize the mixture?

That being said, I do find my hair to be smoother and softer after use.. just that it hasn't proven effective in helping me with my oily scalp issues. In fact, my hair feels weighed down and looks limp at the roots, only the ends are airy and light! Hahaha!



So no, I don't think they are the perfect solution to combination hair, because it made my oily scalp worse.

Have you tried them before?

Am I the only one who isn't seeing the results?

Do feel free to let me know!

Essentials Light Finish Volumizing and Deep Cleansing Care Hair care with their limited edition massage shampoo brush can be found at leading supermarkets and personal care stores (NTUC and Sheng Siong stores) now!

If you want to test them out first before buying, head over to Essentials Facebook Page here to redeem Free Samples!

Hey hey! I'm just going to jump straight into topic (pun intended) of how to achieve Shiny Straight Hair, especially if your hair's condition is far from shiny and straight.

So, if you are like me...

You hair tends to have a life of its own, is wavy or curly, has been dyed way~ too many times and you heaps of baby hairs...

Continue reading to find out how I keep my hair looking neat, tame and healthy.

First off, I always recommend using a product to protect your hair from any type of heat. Here, I am using TRESemme Thermal Creations Heat Tamer Leave-In Spray. I chanced upon this baby since I was 17 and I have been using this product ever since.

That being said, I could actually skip this step with GlamPalm's 501 Hair Styler because its plates are infused with crystal technology that heals hair with heat! So no harm done *wink*

The second product you need is a comb or a brush, here~ I am using an all-natural boar bristles brush. Why? Because it helps reduce frizz and static, improves the overall condition of your hair, and helps to grip the hairs securely later with the use of the flat iron.

The third product is a flat hair straighter!

Read this post here to learn more about my Glampalm's 501 hair styler and on how I create curls with it!

STEPS

1) Prep your hair by misting it with a heat protectant, 6-8 inches away from mid-shaft to ends.

2) Brush to distribute the product evenly. You may use your fingers for this step.

3) Then, start by parting your hair into sections. Work with small sections, I have quite a lot of hair... so I broke mine into 12 sections.

4) Turn on your flat iron beforehand if it takes time to heat up. My Glampalm 501 takes roughly 15 seconds to heat up to 150°C, which is roughly the time I take to pick my hair section and prep it for the styling.

5) Start by taking your first section, brush through it to ensure that there are no knots. Then, with the brush gripping onto the section of the hair, place it between the flat iron, clamp down and glide down with the brush leading the way. Before the flat iron reaches 1/3 of the end, bring your brush back up to the roots and repeat the steps again. I usually go through the sections 2 times, more if the section is bigger.

6) Repeat for the rest of the sections.

7) You may end once you managed to straighten you hair out, but if you are like me with baby hairs and damaged hair ends~ You may want to use a hair serum of your choice and to fix flyaways down with hairspray.

For me, I'm using Origins Crystal Serum. I was introduced to this serum by my mum, and have been using it for 4 years now. Ideally, look for a hair serum that is nourishing and one that doesn't weigh your hair down, because (especially) with this straight hairstyle, as it may end up making your hair look limp.

I usually use 2 pumps of this serum, and warm it up between my palms before applying it from the hair ends, and slowly working my way up to the roots.

I generally try to avoid hairspray because its bad for the hair and the environment, so I stick to my hair serum only and ignore any flyaways that are too stubborn.

And we are done!

Overall, the whole process took me only 10 minutes because of the fast heat-up and the smart crystal technology of GlamPalm's plates, that helps to smooth out the cuticle layer of the hair for that soft shiny result!

Here's the before, mid-way and after look, on the left I did a slight curl inwards. While on the right, I simply drag the styler down.

You can choose to end of with either, I generally do a slight curl inwards because a straight down look actually makes me look fiercer than I really am. Haha!

To achieve that curl towards the end, just twist your flat iron inwards and up a little for a softer look!

Thats~ all!

Thanks for stopping by and reading this post!

Special Promotion

Apply the code of "JODY15" after Paypal Billing Information page to get $15 OFF your very own GlamPalm Hair Styler purchase!

This tutorial has been brought to you by GlamPalm.com.sg, the pioneer in hair styling industry, with the sponsorship of this GP501 Hair Styler used in this post.

Hey hey,

I've got an interesting product to share with all of you today!

Are you like me, a noob at styling your hair, and yet you want to be able to learn and style-it-yourself? Well~ Recently, I was introduced to a hair styler iron that claims to utilise the technology of healing stone ores to not only protect the hair from damage, but it also emits molecules found in nature that provides exceptional therapeutic benefits to its users!

Want to know more?

Just continue reading!

So, the process of finding out which GlamPalm Hair Styler is for you is really easy.
Simply head over to their Styler Guide to figure out which model of their Hair Styler is suitable for you based on your hair type, length and styling preference! 

Personally, my hair is normal and long, and I wanted something that can curl and straighten my hair with. So, the model GP501 suits my criteria the best and that's what I got!

The GP501 Hair Styler comes in a pretty black box, along with a luxury travel pouch (that can also be used a as clutch) and 2 sectioning clips. 

And here's a close up image of my GP501:

So what are the Unique Features of GlamPalm Hair Styler?

• It comes with a protector cover that can be used to keep the iron clamped shut to store aside after use without burning the cover or its surrounding.

• It has groves at its tip for users to grab onto, especially during the process of curling that hair.

• Its ceramic plates are infused with the technology of Healing Stone Ores that emits therapeutic molecules that are also found in nature and prevents hair damage while making the hair softer and glossier.

• It has a 360 degree swivel cord that prevents users from being tangled up in wires and damage to the cord from prolong usage as the cord rotates as users twist and turn the styler around.

How does GP501 operate?

• It has a simple straight forward On/Off switch.

• It has 11 different heat settings ranging from 100°C to 200°C.

• It takes a maximum of 15 seconds for the iron to heat up.

Note: Under the Styler Guide page, there is also a guide to advice upon the heat setting for different type of hairstyles for different type of hair.

Personally, I stick between 150°C to 180°C to style my hair. I find that it's more manageable to work between these heat setting as I tend to go over the same section twice or more (because I'm still getting a hang on this). Anything higher and the style is harder to correct after.

How to use GP501 to create curls?

Watch this quick video of mine:

Tips

• Be mindful of how you part your hair and the overall direction of how you curl as this will determine the end result. 

• I found that it is easier to curl and manage the hair when working with smaller section, it also helps to run the iron down the section of the hair slowly for better result.

• I will admit now that it takes a few trials to get used to the steps and the movements, so practice makes perfect!

Special Promotion

Apply the code of "JODY15" after Paypal Billing Information page to get $15 OFF your very own GlamPalm Hair Styler purchase!

This tutorial has been brought to you by GlamPalm.com.sg, the pioneer in hair styling industry, with the sponsorship of this GP501 Hair Styler used in this post.

You've seen my advert on Luxe Herbal, here's my review on their service and treatment!

I used to have hip-long hair length, my scalp tends to be quite oily while my hair ends were dry.

I had a haircut a week plus prior to my visit and treatment at Luxe Herbal (making dry ends no longer a concern) so, my main issue was my oily scalp.

Before treatment, a consultant will sit down with you in a neat warm room to go through some general questions in regards to history of your mane issues, followed up by a scan of your scalp and hair conditions.

Overall, the salon has a neat elegant look with comfy chairs to seat on and iPads with quite a nice mix of movies available to watch while you get your treatment done.

Here is the breakdown of my treatment for my oily scalp:

1) High Frequency Therapy

- Used to stimulate scalp and kill off any germs or bacteria

Do not be alarm if it makes a slight zapping or buzzing sound.

I was told that it may sting a little but it didn't for me, so just something to be aware of.

2) Comb Massage with wooden comb

- Used to stimulate scalp

I felt like a child having my mum comb through my hair, and I found it quite relaxing~ haha!

3) Wash

 They used a minty shampoo that left my scalp feeling refreshing and I also note that the shampoo chair angle was just right, and I didn't need to strain neck or engage my entire core muscles to lift my head up.

4) Scalp Massage with Ginger Wine Tonic & Lemongrass Oil on ends

- Ginger Wine Tonic is massaged into scalp to prepare the pores on your scalp for the absorption of the herbal remedy

- Lemongrass Oil is applied to the ends to moisturize hair ends while steaming

I was told that this Ginger Wine Tonic was specially formulated here, so you cant get it anywhere else. It has a warm-heating sensation. Do note to inform them if it drips onto your face, because it will feel absolutely uncomfortable on your face. But it was pleasant and refreshing on the scalp.

5) Herbal Mask Treatment

- Contains ginseng, amla, he shou wu, fenugreek, dangui and brahmi

- Has the effect of boosting blood circulation and detoxifying the blood

- Supports hair growth and reverse premature graying of hair

- Combat dandruff, scalp irritation

- Toughen the hair at the roots to prevent detaching and promote stronger and healthier hair growth

- Helps the body adjusts to and diminishes stress

This herbal mask is left on and steamed for 30mins. It felt cooling on my head, and it does smell quite herbal. I was also told that Luxe Herbal formulated their very own recipe for this mask that is specially concocted with premium Chinese and Ayurvedic herbs.

6) Wash and Blow & Dry

After 30 minutes, the mask is rinsed off  with the same shampoo. This time round, my scalp was massaged during the wash. This was followed by a conditioner and further rinsing. 

Then once I was back at my seat, a warm shoulder beanie was placed before my hair was blown semi-dry.

7) Intense Scalp Massage with Hair Fall Rescue Tonic

- Helps blood circulation

The scalp and shoulder massage was really good! And after that, my hair was blown dry and styled.

8) Infer Red Therapy

- Assist penetration of tonic and improve blood circulation

The therapy was for a duration of 10mins and it felt slightly warm.

Overall Thoughts & Results:

The entire treatment lasted about 2 hours for me and cost $150 for my treatment.

That being said, the cost of the treatment is based on individual requirements and needs.

So, just how well did the treatment went for me?

Taking a look at my scalp scan before and after the treatment, there are some significant improvement!

Before, my pores were covered with dead skin cells and sebum (Top left-hand corner) and I had a huge clog in one of them (so gross! yuck!)!!!

After the treatment, you can clearly see that the dead skin cells and sebum are gone and the clog has shrank! I was told that I will require a few more session to get it cleared completely. I can now see what Luxe Herbal dare to claim that they are efficient in delivering results with just 3 treatments. 

As for the scent, there was hardly any herbal smell left after it was washed off. There was a hint of it with the scent of shampoo and conditioner used. Personally, I am ok with the herbal scent. If you wash your hair regularly with a fragrant shampoo, the smell will fade away faster. I use a mild natural shampoo so the herbal smell lasted 3 days for me.

If you are keen to give Luxe Herbal a try, I got a special promotion for you!

Instead of paying the full price of $150 for one treatment, Luxe Herbal is offering:

$15 for first-time customer + free Fibre Plus* worth $15
* Helps to improve hair ends and protect them

Simply quote "Jody" when you are making your appointment or when you walk in!