Product Review: it’s a 10 miracle leave-in product

Reviewer: Suziesaurus

Brand: it’s a 10 
Name: miracle leave-in product
Size: 4 fl. oz. / 120 mL
Price: $20 CAD

What it says on the bottle:

“Does 10 things instantly:
- Repairs dry, damaged hair
- Adds shine
- Detangles
- Control frizz
- Seals & protects hair colour
- Prevents split ends
- Stops hair breakage
- Creates silkiness
- Flat iron spray
- thermal protector”


To Purr About:

- easy to use
- pleasant subtle scent
- very light and does not weigh hair down
- hair feels soft and silky after applying product
- helps detangle hair
- helps control frizz
- a little product goes a long way


Claws Out:

- a little expensive
- didn’t drastically change the look/feel of my hair


Final Comments:

So being the pushover that I am, I’m easily swayed to buy products, so when the hairdresser started pushing products on me I ended up picking up a leave-in product by a brand I’ve never heard of called “it’s a 10”.

This product is actually a lotion consistency, but still sprays out for an easy application. I liked that this leave-in product is simple to use and doesn’t add too many extra steps to my normal routine. Just spray it in after you towel dry your hair and you’re ready to go. I love how this product makes my hair feel while I wait for it to air dry. It helps detangle my hair and leaves it feeling soft and silky. It was light and didn’t add any extra weight to my hair which was also nice. After my hair is dry I do notice a bit less frizz.

I’ve been using this leave-in conditioner for a few weeks now and I don’t see any major change in the way my hair looks. I do however like the way this product makes my hair feel and like that it helped control the frizz when my hair is dry. And although a little product goes a long way, I’m still debating whether this product is worth the cost or if I should look for another alternative.


Rating (out of 5):







Disclosure: This product was purchased by Suziesaurus
image: cinnamonkitten.blogspot.com

Product Review: Herbal Essences Touchably Smooth Shampoo & Conditioner

Reviewer: Suziesaurus

Brand: Herbal Essences
Name: Touchably Smooth Shampoo & Conditioner
Size: 300 ml
Price: approx. $4.99 CAD each

What it says on their web site:
Wild hair? We’ll help you tame it. Our formula, a fusion of pink lily and Asian silk, leaves you smooth, silky hair in one shower. guaranteed. Use our shampoo, conditioner, or 2-in-1 with built-in soothing serum to enjoy sleek, smooth hair

- leaves hair feeling clean
- hair is smooth
- pleasant floral scent that isn’t too overpowering
- lathered up well
- affordable price
- isn’t too heavy/oily
- comes in a 2-in-1 version
- bottles can be stood on their tops or bottoms and are easily distinguishable

To Purr About:
- convenient pump dispenser
- nice clean scent that isn’t too strong
- leaves skin feeling clean and refreshed
- doesn’t dry out skin
- doesn’t irritate my super sensitive skin
- affordable

Claws Out:
- hair isn’t as smooth as other smoothing shampoos/conditioners have left it

Final Comments:
I’ve been using a smoothing shampoo and conditioner for the last couple of years now and although I’m pretty happy with it, I’m always on the look-out for other alternatives for variety and to save some money. I’ve used Herbal Essences products in the past before and enjoyed them, so I was interested in trying their smoothing line to see if it would be a good substitute for my current favorite when I have to tighten my purse strings.

Firstly, I love the bottles which can be stood up on their bottoms or tops. They are easily distinguished between each other making it easy to tell which one is the shampoo and which one is the conditioner when you go to reach for them in the shower. This may seem silly to most people, but seeing as my eyesight is quite horrible it is definitely a plus for me.

On to the product – I am really enjoying the pleasant (but not too strong) floral scent. It is really nice and doesn’t linger too long after my hair wash. Both shampoo and conditioner lather up well and wash out easily leaving my hair feeling clean and fresh. They don’t leave my hair feeling as smooth or as soft as I’ve expereinced with other smoothing products, but on the positive side of that - they aren’t too heavy or oily, which is nice as my hair doesn’t feel as oily the next day. My hair is acceptably smooth and controlled after using this product.

In conclusion, I definitely think this is a great product for the price. I’m happy with the way it makes my hair looks and I’m looking forward to trying the 2-in-1 version of this product (anything to save time, right?)

Rating (out of 5):

Disclosure: A free sample of this product was received by Cinnamon Kitten
image: cinnamonkitten.blogspot.com

Product Review: Batiste Dry Shampoo Tropical

Reviewer: Suziesaurus

Brand: Batiste
Name: Dry Shampoo Tropical
Size: 50 mL / 30 g / 1.6 fl oz
Price: approx. $4.99 CAD

What it says on their website:
"Caribbean heat, coconut aromas and party vibes are locked into this Tropical edition. It’s the instant, deliciously exotic way to get clean, fresh hair full of body and texture. And there’s no need for water!"

To Purr About:
- quick and easy to apply and works fast
- reduces greasy/oily look and feel of unwashed hair
- leaves hair feeling soft
- makes hair feel cleaner
- eliminates itchy scalp from unwashed hair
- doesn’t leave any residue or white stuff in my hair
- “on the go size” is convenient for travelling on taking with you on the go
- product is available in 2 other sizes: normal and extra value size
- comes in 3 scents: original, blush, tropical

Claws Out:
- tropical coconut scent is a bit strong
- since it’s a spray, it is harder to control where product is going

Final Comments:
I’m really into products that make my life easier nowadays and I’ve been really interested in dry shampoos. So far, this is the second dry shampoo I’ve tried. Like the first dry shampoo I tried, Batiste’s Dry Shampoo is the aerosol type (not the powder type).

I’ve used this product a few times now and I’m pretty impressed with the results. I follow the easy instructions and spray it in to my hair, wait a bit and then brush my hair. Instantly my hair is less greasy, less itchy and looks much softer which is great. It doesn’t leave any residue in my hair that I’ve noticed.

One of the huge pros of this product is that it comes in a convenient travel size, in addition to a normal size and a extra value size.

The only major drawback I’ve found to Batiste’s Tropical dry shampoo is that I’m not a huge fan of the sweet scent. The scent lingers for the whole day, and while that may be a good thing for people that enjoy the scent, it is a drawback if you don’t. Also if you are a usual wearer of perfume or other scented products it might cause a weird mix of scents. I wish it had a more neutralizing scent – maybe I should try the “original”.

All in all I’m pretty happy with this product. I can’t wait to use it to freshen up after workouts, etc.

Rating (out of 5):

Disclosure: A free sample of this product was received by Cinnamon Kitten
image: cinnamonkitten.blogspot.com

Product Review: TRESemmé Fresh Start Smoothing Dry Shampoo

Reviewer: Suziesaurus

Brand: TRESemmé
Name: : Fresh Start Smoothing Dry Shampoo
Size: 161 g
Price: approx. $5.49 CAD

What it says on their website:
"Hold on to smooth, salon-silky style even between washes. Rich with Vitamin H and Silk Proteins, the uniquely formulated dry shampoo revives hair; leaving it with a salon-freshness you can see and feel."

To Purr About:
- affordable price
- left hair looking softer and less greasy
- made scalp less itchy
- did not streak or leave any white residue

Claws Out:
- hair still looked a tiny bit greasy at the end of the day
- since it’s a spray, it’s harder to control where product is going
- not convenient for travelling

Final Comments:
It seems like the latest hair product to hit the shelves are dry shampoos – either a hair spray or powder that you apply to your less than clean hair to give it a quick refresh without having to wash it. I think this product would be perfect to help wean me off of washing my hair every day, which I know isn’t the best thing to do.

There were a lot of products to choose from, but one choose this 1 because it was cheap. I figured for my first foray in to using dry shampoos I’d go the economical route in case I didn’t end up using it as much as I planned.

The first time I used TRESemme’s Fresh Start Dry Shampoo I hadn’t washed my hair for 3 days (washed on Thursday and now it’s Sunday). It’s a bit tricky to get used to because I haven’t used a aerosol spray type product in my hair in a long time, so I just had to be careful not to get product in my eyes. I followed the directions (I’ve heard that if you don’t follow them, it may leave white streaks in your hair) after brushing my hair I saw an immediate difference. My hair looked instantly less greasy and softer (less stringy). It was much softer to the touch too and felt a bit cleaner!

I didn`t find the product streaked in my black hair (again, make sure you follow the directions).

I think this product is quite effective for the price. I don’t know if I’d use it multiple times/days in a row, but if you know you`re going to wash your hair after afterwards, it`s a good way to make your hair look and feel better until you can get to washing it.

I only wish this product wasn’t aerosol or came in a smaller bottle to make it convenient for travelling.

Rating (out of 5):

Disclosure: This product was purchased by Suziesaurus
image: cinnamonkitten.blogspot.com

Contest: WIN a Infiniti Pro by Conair Volume Boost Styling Tool

Now that the Infiniti Pro by Conair Volume Boost 1875-Watt AC Motor 2-in-1 Styling Tool has replaced my old hair dryer (see my review here), I'd love to give one of my readers one as well! With all the holiday spending happening, why not try to get something for free? :)

To enter (mandatory):
- Comment below on which setting(s) on your hair dryer you use most often (hot, cool, combination). Don't forget to leave an email address where I can reach you if you win!

For extra entries - please leave a separate comment for each entry (and include your username so I can verify if you're chosen as the winner!)
- "Like" the Cinnamon Kitten Facebook Page
- Follow Cinnamon Kitten on Twitter

Notes:
- The contest is open to the USA only.
- Contest ends Wednesday, December 7, 2011
- Winner will be contacted via e-mail and announced on this blog shortly after.

Product Review: Infiniti Pro by Conair Volume Boost 1875-Watt AC Motor 2-in-1 Styling Tool

Reviewer: Cinnamon Kitten

Brand: Conair
Name: Infiniti Pro Volume Boost 2-in-1 Styling Tool
Price: approx. $39.99 USD

Where to buy:
mass market and drug store retailers and www.conairdryer.com

What it says in the press release:
This quiet, lightweight AC motor dryer lifts your hair for fullness and volume with the innovative volumizing attachment. It features an AC motor typically favored by professional stylists to provide a powerful air velocity for faster drying and up to a 3X longer life span as compared to typical (DC motor) consumer hair dryers. It utilizes ionic ceramic technology that controls frizz and promotes healthy, shiny looking hair. Additional features include:
- 3-heat/2-speed rotary switches
- True cold shot button
- Removable filter to prevent lint build-up and further extend the life of the motor


To Purr About:
- smaller than my normal hair dryer, making it easier to manage
- has 2 speed settings and 3 temperature settings so you have lots of combinations to work with
- the volumizing attachment is easy to use and much nicer than having to wield a hairbrush and dryer at the same time to try to get some volume in my hair
- attachments are easy to attach and remove
- removable filter is something new for me and makes cleaning the dryer (something I rarely EVER do) really easy
- has ionic ceramic technology which I use a lot because my hair gets really frizzy and static-y in the winter

Claws Out:
- none really

Final Comments:
Ok, first off, let me say that I'm not that picky about my hair dryers. I've been using the same one for years. I have really thick hair so I like to have a powerful one to really make hair-drying as fast as possible (I HATE drying my hair). The current one I use only has two settings (one is warm air and one is hot air) and does have ion ceramic technology. It may have come with attacments, but it's been so long I can't remember and if it did have attachments, I've obviously lost them a while ago.

So I was excited to try this new hair dryer, if only for the multiple settings. The toggle switches give you high and low speed settings and cool, warm and hot temperature settings. I really like the cool air option as I tend to switch back and forth between hot and cool so that I don't damage my hair too much with the heat.

The attachments were easy to use and the volumizer definitely made my life easier. With my old hair dryer, I had to have a big round brush in one hand and my dryer in the other, but the volumizing attachment gave my hair some lift without the use of the brush.

Since I haven't bought a dryer in a while, I'm not sure if the price is too high. I'm assuming that most people are like me and don't replace their dryers too often, so $40 doesn't seem like a lot to spend on a dryer that will last a long time.

Rating (out of 5):



Disclosure: A free sample of this product was received by Cinnamon Kitten
image: press release

Product Review: John Frieda Full Repair Touch-Up Flyaway Tamer

Reviewer: Cinnamon Kitten

Brand: John Frieda
Name: : Full Repair Touch-Up Flyaway Tamer
Size: 14 ml
Price: approx. $14.99 CAD

As soon as I heard about this product, I knew I had to try it. How amazing does this idea sound???

Whenever I wash my hair, it always looks really great the next day - shiny, soft, fragrant...the only thing is that I have what seems like a million flyaway hairs that last until I either put some product in it to tame it or a my hair gets oily and weighs down the flyaways.

Well, this product promises to banish flyaways...and all in a convenient little tube too!


The product info states: "This portable wand polishes broken strands, smoothing flyaways and frayed ends with Inca Inchi oil to keep hair sleek and smooth. This must-have item for any woman’s hair styling arsenal has a crystal-clear formula that weightlessly smoothes flyaways without diminishing hair’s volume. The Touch-up Flyaway Tamer is small enough to fit in your purse making it ideal for touch-ups on the go. To use, simply brush the wand over dry, styled hair to touch-up and give a boost
of shine.

The first test run that I did was last month. I was going to a baptism and washed my hair about an two hours before the event. Immediately after I finished blow-drying my hair, I had to get dressed, get made up and dash out the door. So my fair was definitely doing the whole flyaway thing. In the car, I took the wand out and lightly ran it over the top of my head over the flyaway hairs. Instantly, they were smoothed away. I had used a little too much product, so smoothed down my hair with my hand - big mistake! I ended up some product on my hand where it instantly became sticky. Luckily, I had some wet-wipes with me, otherwise I would have been in trouble since I had nothing to wipe my hand on.

To Purr About:
- easy to use mascara-style wand makes it easy to apply the product to a few hairs
- instantly smoothed down flyaway hair
- compact tube packaging makes it easy to toss into a bag/purse

Claws Out:
- if you touch it right after application, it's sticky, which can be annoying if you're not at home or have any tissue handy


Final Comments:
I love this product. Except for the stickiness if you touch it with your hand, it really does get rid of flyaway hairs instantly without leaving your hair greasy or oily. I'm not sure how shiny it makes your hair since I didn't notice my hair being any shinier than usual, but I'm so happy with the flyaway fix that I don't really care if the product does anything else!

The convenience of the packaging and the applicator makes this a great on-the-go product and something I wish I've had for years!

Rating (out of 5):




Disclosure: A free sample of this product was received by Cinnamon Kitten
image: cinnamonkitten.blogspot.com

Product Review: Herbal Essences Hello Hydration Shampoo & Conditioner

Reviewer: Cinnamon Kitten

Brand: Herbal Essences
Name: : Hello Hydration Shampoo & Conditioner
Size: 300 ml
Price: approx. $7 CAD each

Part of the new Herbal Essences line, the Hello Hydration pair promises to "deeply condition hair with essential moisturizers to help leave hair vibrant looking, silky and manageable."

This pair is infused with extracts of Hawaiian coconut and orchid.

To Purr About:
- I LOVE the scent of light coconut and orchi - very tropical
- shampoo left my hair squeaky clean, but it didn't feel like it was stripped
- conditioner left my hair very soft
- hair styled easily after drying
- bottles are designed so that they have flat bottoms at both ends - great for standing the bottles up so that all the product goes to one end

Claws Out:
- none really

Final Comments:
Let's start this off by saying that I'm NOT a fan of the Herbal Essences commercials - the ones where the women have fantasies of being actresses or rock stars and ends with the tag line "Someone's been doing the herbal". I just found it kind of silly.

But I used to use Herbal Essences so was definitely game on giving the new line a try. I chose Hello Hydration because winter definitely leaves my hair drier than normal and I was hoping this shampoo/conditioner combination would give me some added hydration.

First off, I LOVE the scent of this shampoo. It's a light coconut, mixed with orchid, and it's a very tropical without being too sweet.

The shampoo left my hair feeling very clean, almost squeaky clean, but without feeling like it had been stripped. The conditioner afterwards made my hair feel very moisturized and hydrated. After drying, my hair felt really soft and was easily styled.

The best part was the next day after I first used the shampoo/conditioner, it was really windy and I kept getting whiffs of the tropical coconut smell - a lovely, uplifiting scent on a cold, wintery day. :)

Rating (out of 5):




Disclosure: A free sample of this product was received by Cinnamon Kitten

image: well.ca

Product Review: Honey'do Shampoo & Conditioner

Reviewer: Cinnamon Kitten

Brand: Honey'do
Name: : Shampoo & Conditioner
Size: 8 oz each
Price: $16 USD each (or $30 USD for a set of shampoo & conditioner together)

How adorable is this? As soon as I saw the photo of this shampoo and conditioner set, I knew I had to try it! Who hasn't drizzled delicious, golden honey out of a plastic bear? :)

I love honey in all its forms and I know that it's very healthy for you. It's one of nature's most perfect foods, so it's not surprising that many beauty companies have been looking for ways to take advantage of honey's many spectacular properties.

The Honey'do shampoo is formulated with organic honey and promises to gently clean without stripping your hair, so it's perfect for everyday use.

The Honey'do conditioner is lightweight and made with organic honey that leaves hair full of body and manageability.

Both products are paraben and sulfate free.

To Purr About:
- super sweet honey smell
- shampoo left hair squeaky clean
- conditioner left hair soft
- conditioner has a silky texture to it

Claws Out:
- smell may be too sweet for some
- shampoo doesn't lather up a lot, which I prefer

Final Comments:
After I got past the adorable packaging, I was a little blown away by the sweet smell. It smells exactly like honey, but that may be off-putting for some as it's super sweet. I didn't mind it too much, but would have preferred something a little more subtle.

I prefer shampoos that lather up, which this shampoo doesn't do, but it definitely left my hair squeaky clean. Literally. My hair felt really clean and I was concerned that it was a little harsh on my hair, but after finishing off with the conditioner, my hair felt great. It was soft and manageble.

For those that like sweet things, adorable packaging and light-lathering shampoo, this would be a great treat. It's also good for those that prefer a more natural shampoo and conditioner.

Rating (out of 5):




Disclosure: A free sample of this product was received by Cinnamon Kitten

image: abeautifullife.com

Product News: Finesse Clean + Simple

Brand: Finesse
Name: Clean + Simple


For those with sensitive skin, (or lips, like Suziesaurus), finding products that don't irritate their bodies can be a challenge. Many beauty brands now offer a lot of products specifically for this problem, but there haven't been many that offer this in the hair care field.

Finesse has just launched a new affordable, hypoallergenic hair care line - Finesse Clean + Simple - that is dermatologist tested to be non-irritating and free of allergens.

What Clean + Simple DOESN'T have:
- sulfates, a cleansing and foaming agent common in shampoos that's harsh to skin and hair, and can strip colour from hair
- parabens, a preservative believed to have properties similar to the hormone estrogen
- gluten, a protein often functioning as a conditioning agent, and a concern for those who suffer from gluten intolerance or dermatitis herpetiformis
- dyes, in personal products simply to improve appearance, and a frequent source of skin irritation.

What Clean + Simple does have:
- an extra gentle surfactant to cleanse hair without scalp irritation or excessive drying
- a light fragrance, certified hypoallergenic
- specially selected conditioning agents to leave hair soft and shiny without build up
- an advanced hairspray resin in a low alcohol hairspray formula.

Available in this collection:
- Clean + Simple Shampoo for Normal Hair, 10 oz
- Clean + Simple Conditioner for Normal Hair, 10 oz
- Clean + Simple Shampoo for Dry/Color Treated Hair, 10 oz
- Clean + Simple Conditioner for Dry/Color Treated Hair, 10 oz
- Clean + Simple Flexible Hold Hairspray, Non-Aerosol, 8.5 oz

image: press release

NEW Product: Hotheads 3D Bristle Pattern Brush

Brand: Hotheads
Name: 3D Bristle Pattern Brush
Price:
- small: $18 USD
- medium: $24.50 USD
- large: $29.50

The new Hotheads’ 3D Bristle Pattern Brush claims to dry your hair faster by 50-60%!

The ultra light 3D Bristle Pattern Brush is made with 3 types of bristles that not only help decrease dry time, but improve the overall health of your hair. The patented-shaped barrel gives ultimate control and cuts drying time in half whether adding volume, curls or an amazing flat iron-finish.

Other features include:
- White boar bristles control frizz and add shine;
- Black boar bristles grip for great smoothing, volume or curl;
- Single pinned firm nylon with round tips is designed to handle all hair types;
- Easily detangles hair and is gentle on the scalp;
- Available in 3 sizes: S, M, L.

image: press release

Product Review: John Frieda Frizz-Ease Smooth Start Shampoo & Conditioner

Reviewer: Suziesaurus

Brand: John Frieda
Name: Frizz-Ease Smooth Start Shampoo & Conditioner
Size: 250 ml
Price: approx. $17 CAD

I recently fell in love with John Frieda’s Frizz-Ease WeatherWorks Shampoo & Conditioner combo, but since I just ran out of both I decided it was time for a change and what better way to try something new, but stick with what I know works
than to try John Frieda’s Frizz-Ease Smooth Start Shampoo & Conditioner?

John Frieda’s website advertises that the Smooth Start Shampoo & Conditioner:
- starts blocking frizz in the shower for easy styling
- with Frizz-Mending Complex, it smoothes strands, hydrates to replenish vital moisture and restores hairs natural defense against frizz
- leaves parched tresses silky, shiny and highly manageable
- helps create sleek, supple, shimmering and frizz-resistant strands
- safe for colour-treated hair

To Purr About:
- makes hair feel silky-smooth and healthy
- helps tame my unruly hair
- makes my hair very shiny looking

Claws Out:
- scent is a little stronger than I usually like

Final Comments:
Similarly to the Weather Works product from the same Frizz-Ease line, I definitely enjoy using this product and give it 2 thumbs up. As a result of continued use, my hair is definitely super moisturized and healthy feeling and super smooth. I wish this line had come out sooner! I love it and it definitely has stopped any frizzing & flyaways! I’ve even recently noticed that some days I don’t even need to use any styling products on my hair which is quite amazing for the cut that I have.

If I had to name one con about this product is that it is slightly strong scented compared to its counterparts in the same product family. Still, I got used to the scent very quickly, but I thought it was worth mentioning.

Rating (out of 5):




Disclosure: A free sample of this product was received by Cinnamon Kitten

image: johnfrieda.ca

Product Review: Head & Shoulders Ocean Lift Shampoo & Conditioner

Reviewer: Cinnamon Kitten

Brand: Head & Shoulders
Name: : Ocean Lift Shampoo & Conditioner
Size & Price:
- shampoo: 420 ml, approx. $13 CAD
- conditioner: 400 ml, approx. $8 CAD

(from the website): "Shampoo, conditioner and 2-in-1 –with a sea mineral essence. The shampoo cleanses while the conditioner cares for the hair. The result is soft, supple hair and a scalp free from flakes and relieved itchiness."

I generally cycle Head & Shoulders into my regular hair routine whenever I notice some flakes starting to show and was happy when H&S re-vamped most of their products to become more than just a "dandruff" shampoo. With very dark brown hair, flakes tend to show up immediately.

I usually use the "Smooth and Silky" line from H&S but was definitely willing to try the Ocean Lift collection because in the summer I tend to opt for more light and "fresh" scents.

To Purr About:
- fair felt extra clean after just one wash
- my scalp had started to itch lately, with the hot and humid weather and after two washes, all the itchiness disappeared
- afterwards, hair was shiny and manageable
- very light, fresh scent smelled really nice in the shower (actually was kind of invigorating) and was just as fresh aftewards

Claws Out:
- hair was not as soft as with my usual shampoo/conditioner combination

Final Comments:
Another great H&S product that delivers instant dandruff and itch relief. I really liked the fresh, invigorating scent and my hair felt super clean after just one use. The flakes were definitely gone. I still prefer the Smooth and Silky collection from H&S thought because I did notice that Ocean Lift didn't leave my hair as soft as Smooth and Silky does. But I have really thick, long hair so I need extra conditioning help.

My husband uses this product as well and he loves it - it's fresh, clean and works really well.


Rating (out of 5):

Disclosure: A free sample of this product was received by Cinnamon Kitten

image: headandshoulders.com

Product Review: De Fabulous Mini Twister Curling Iron

Reviewer: Cinnamon Kitten

Brand: De Fabulous
Name: : Mini Twister Curling Iron
Size: n/a
Price: approx. $70.00 USD

I don't travel a lot (although I'd like to) but when I do, I always pack my straigh iron, so I was excited to try out the De Fabulous Mini Twister - a travel-size curling iron. How convenient!

From the packaging:
- spin the barrel with the touch of your fingers and no more wrist and hand fatigue
- ceramic/tourmaline barrel creates ultra-high negative ionic charge
- preserves moisture and eliminates frizz
- comfort handle with non-slip and heat-resistant grip
- travel size with non-tangle swivel cord
- instant heat up to 410 F (210 C)

To Purr About:
- heats up super quick (it was already too hot to touch in 5 seconds after I turned it on)
- swivel base for cord keeps cord from tangling up
- swivel iron part lets you turn the iron part with your thumb makes it super easy to curl your hair. I just clamped the end of my hair into the curler and then used my thumb to spin the iron around my hair
- small size is very convenient for travel
- comes with a nice, soft case makes it even more convenient for travel

Claws Out:
- no other indicator light other than the tiny red "on" light
- no stand so you have to be careful about where you place it

Final Comments:
I love the size and ease of use that this little mini curler provides. It heats up super quick and the swivel base and swivel iron make it very easy to use with no cord tangling. I didn't have to twist my wrist at all to get my hair curled.

I love the soft case that the iron comes in - this is definitely a travel curling iron! The only thing I would like to see is a bigger light or some indicator when the iron reaches a certain temperature.

Since I don't curl my hair very often, I'd love to get the mini straight iron from this company.

Rating (out of 5):

Disclosure: A free sample of this product was received by Cinnamon Kitten

To learn more about this product, or to find a salon near you that carries the Mini Twister, please visit www.defabulous.com

image: www.defabulous.com

Product Review: John Frieda Frizz-Ease Weather Works Shampoo & Conditioner

Reviewer: Suziesaurus

Brand: John Frieda
Name: : Frizz Ease Weather Works Shampoo & Conditioner
Size: 250 ml
Price: $10.49 CAD

Ever since cutting my hair into a shorter style I have been using John Frieda’s Frizz-Ease Secret Weapon Finishing Cream product to style my hair. I love it, which led me to wanting to try the shampoo & conditioner that is part of the same line.

The Weather Works Shampoo & Conditioner is (from their website):
- Created for all hair types, Weather-Proofing Shampoo creates a barrier that blocks out heat and humidity providing essential preparation for weather-resistant hair.
- Contains a special ‘Shielding Technology’ that creates a barrier for humidity resistance, static control and UV protection.
- Formulated to provide silky-smooth texture and to control frizz year round.
Removes dirt and oil and rehydrates hair.
- Improves manageability.
- Helps tame frizz and flyaways and lays the foundation for blockage of style-ruining weather.
- Nourishes and softens for flawless style and silky shine in all weather conditions.
- Safe for natural or colour treated hair.

To Purr About:
- made my hair feel silky-smooth and healthy
- helped tame my unruly hair
- made my hair very shiny
- no major scent

Claws Out:
- none really

Final Comments:
To put my review in context – I have thick, un-coloured, cut into a bob, not too damaged (that I know of) hair. I don`t usually blow-dry, straight iron or brush my hair and I wash my hair once every day or every-other day. I use styling products daily.

I never was one to buy anything but the cheapest shampoo & conditioners available, but after trying many different products I have to say that the right shampoo and conditioner really set the stage for nice hair and easy styling.

At an acceptable price (for me) this product really delivers.

Only after the first use I noticed a huge difference. I usually wash my hair in the evenings and the next day have to style the crap out of it, but when I awoke I found my hair to be in need of less styling to get it to look the way I wanted it. Granted I don’t have a very complicated style (just a simple bob), but still – it was a definite improvement. Usually if I don’t wash my hair daily it means that I will have a hard time styling it the next day since I have 2 days worth of product and 2 nights worth of bed head to contend with, but the Frizz-Ease Shampoo and conditioner left my hair so soft and manageable that even after the second night I didn’t have to fight with my hair too much.

If that wasn’t enough, by the third use I noticed a definite reduction in flyaways. This product is awesome!

Rating (out of 5):

Disclosure: A free sample of this product was received by Cinnamon Kitten

image: johnfrieda.ca

NEW Product: Infiniti by Conair You Curl

Brand: Conair You Curl
Name: Infiniti
Size: n/a
Price: $49.99 USD

(from the press release) "Soft, sexy curls are now easy to create with the new Infiniti by Conair You Curl. The You Curl has a unique, clamp-free design and a cone-shaped barrel that creates a softer, less structured curl. Simply wrap hair around the barrel, hold for a few seconds and then release. The conical design allows the curls to start closer to the root, allowing more volume through the middle (large portion of the barrel) and the bottom will have a tighter curl (small section of the barrel). The effect is trendy, free-flowing spirals with no "clamp kinks."

The powerful ceramic heater features Tourmaline Ceramic technology which provides more protection, reduces frizz, helps eliminate static and does not have damaging hot spots. The ultra-high heat levels are instantly restored during use, and the 5 LED settings provide the ideal temperatures for all hair types. The stay-cool safety tip protects fingers during use."

image: press release

NEW Product: Salon Grafix Invisible Dry Spray Shampoo

Brand: Salon Grafix
Name: Invisible Dry Spray Shampoo
Size: n/a
Price: $7.99 USD

Sometimes life gets so busy and your hair NEEDS to have a wash, but you just don't have the time - ever have that experience? Well, many of us have had that at least once and the solution was to either go with limp or dirty hair (in my case, oily) or reach for the "powder" shampoos that were a quick fix to hold you over until you could find time to hop in the shower.

Now there's another option - a "spray shampoo".

From the press kit: "Ideal for all hair types and styles, Salon Grafix Invisible Dry Spray Shampoo goes on clean and clear, with no visible powder left behind. When applied, the new invisible formula quickly absorbs the oily buildup on your scalp and neutralizes any odors, giving you a refreshed look in a fraction of the time of a traditional shampooing. By simply spraying it in your hair and brushing it out, your hair will look and feel rejuvenated. Clearly not your mother’s dry shampoo from the 70’s, Salon Grafix Invisible Dry Spray Shampoo is currently the ONLY invisible dry shampoo available."

image:press release

NEW Product: Remington Frizz Therapy Iron

Brand:Remington
Name: Frizz Therapy Iron
Size: n/a
Price: approx. $50.00 USD

For all my curly-haired friends out there who complain about the frizzies - Remington has launched a flat iron has already received rave reviews as one of Good Housekeeping Research Institute’s prestigious V.I.P. (Very Innovative Product) Award winners (the only beauty product of the bunch) – and was recently featured in the New York Daily News as one of the "9 Smartest Buys in 2010".

The Frizz Therapy Iron dramatically reduces frizz (the claim is 65% less than a traditional iron) and helps your hair resist humidity for up to 15 hours to maintain a silky smooth style.

The iron features next generation ceramic plates with special porous properties infused with a blend of frizz-resistant micro-conditioners that are emitted during styling. Complete with digital heat settings that range from 300°-430°F and a one-hour auto-safety shut off.

NEW Product Line: Aveeno positively nourishing Hair Care Collection

I love Aveeno because it offers my favourite body lotion of all time so I'm always keen on trying out new Aveeno products. Now, Aveeno has launched a new hair care line.

The Aveeno positively nourishing hair care collection was developed with a team of experts, including a leading dermatologist and hair stylist, in order to create products that help to make hair healthy looking and beautiful, naturally.

Aveeno has captured the natural benefits of Wheat Protein and combined it with advanced science to create the newest Active Naturals technology, Nourishing Wheat Complex, which targets and strengthens damaged hair to make hair less prone to breakage and resistant to future damage.

The Nourishing Wheat Complex formula contains an effective blend of Wheat Germ Oil plus Wheat Protein, which helps replenish lost moisture. While Wheat Protein can readily be found in many hair care products, this cutting-edge complex uses one large, non-hydrolyzed protein polymer, which is by definition not soluble in water and won’t break down with use in water. In scientific testing, the Nourishing Wheat Complex shampoo and conditioner systems showed significantly greater conditioning efficacy versus a non-conditioning shampoo.

positively nourishing MOISTURIZE Shampoo and Conditioner, 310 mL, $8.99 USD
Goes beyond cleansing and conditioning to moisturize dry, damaged hair. Combines the Nourishing Wheat Complex and Hydrating Oat Protein to quickly quench the hair, replenishing vital moisture. Gentle enough for color-treated hair.

positively nourishing REVITALIZE Shampoo and Conditioner, 310 mL, $8.99 USD
Specifically formulated to help protect hair’s moisture balance and repair everyday damage. Infused with the Nourishing Wheat Complex, the formula intuitively feeds hair with moisture. Gentle enough for colour-treated hair.

positively nourishing VOLUMIZE Shampoo and Conditioner, 310 mL, $8.99 USD
Uses a unique blend of lightweight conditioners to infuse hair with lush, rich body. This exclusive formula, infused with the Nourishing Wheat Complex, plus Anti-Oxidant Blue Lotus Flower, is designed to replenish moisture and amp-up body in fine, hair by replenishing essential moisture and protecting fragile hair from everyday damage. Gentle enough for color-treated hair.

positively nourishing SHINE Shampoo and Conditioner, 310 mL, $8.99 USD
Specifically formulated to replenish moisture and promote shine. Infused with the Nourishing Wheat Complex and shine-enhancing Palm Extract, the SHINE formula smoothes and hydrates to illuminate the dullest hair, giving it shiny, vibrant life. Gentle enough for colour-treated hair.

positively nourishing SOOTHE Shampoo, 310 mL, $8.99 USD
Helps to soothe dry, itchy scalp by calming and soothing the scalp with a combination of the Nourishing Wheat Complex, soothing Lavender and cooling Peppermint. Gentle enough for color-treated hair, the formula addresses the weakest part of hair, fortifying it with protein where it needs it most while soothing the scalp.

positively nourishing CONDITIONING Leave-In Treatment, 153 mL, $8.99 USD
Formulated for intensely dry and extra damaged hair, this Leave-In Treatment works to quench overly-dry hair by giving it an infusion of moisture. Gentle enough for color-treated hair, it contains the Nourishing Wheat Complex, to instantly revitalize and repair severely ravaged hair. The treatment works quickly to intensely replenish moisture.

NEW Product Line: Baléa

Shoppers Drug Mart is expanding it's list of exclusive brands by unveiling Baléa, a new line of health and beauty lifestyle products. Canadians may have already started to notice Baléa products on SDM shelves (I know I have).

Baléa offers shoppers a range of products including hair care and skin care and has 7 sub-brands: Baléa Kids, Baléa Hair, Baléa Face, Baléa Hand, Baléa Body, Baléa Bath and Baléa Shave.

Baléa Hair

Baléa Deep Moisture Hair Mask, 150 ml, $3.99 CAD
A luxurious weekly treatment that moisturizes the scalp and promotes a healthy, smooth texture, this deep conditioning mask also protects from damage caused by sun exposure.

Baléa Moisturizing Shampoo, 710 ml, $4.99 CAD
In addition to smelling delicious, this shampoo is infused with vanilla and coconut milk to replenish your hair with essential moisturizers, leaving it silky and manageable.
- Vanilla and Coconut Milk

Baléa Volumizing Shampoo & Conditioner, 710 ml, $4.99 CAD
Infused with the beautiful scents of white nectarine and coral flower, this shampoo will give your hair an ultra boost in volume.
- White Nectarine & Coral Flower

Baléa Heat Protection Thermal Styling Serum, 150 ml, $4.99 CAD
Specially formulated for all types of hair, this styling serum will protect hair from intense heat damage from thermal styling tools. Spray on towel dried hair before applying heat or for maximum heat protection spray lightly onto sections of dry hair before using a thermal styling tool.

Baléa Body

Baléa Goat’s Milk Soap, 150 g, $4.99 CAD
Unlike cow’s milk, goat’s milk is naturally homogenized, offering the full moisturizing effect of everything nature puts into the milk. Therefore goat’s milk is extraordinarily gentle and tender even to the driest of skin. Baléa’s Goat’s Milk Soap will absorb natural enzymes, proteins, vitamins and minerals into the skin and increase moisture levels for healthy, beautiful skin.
- Fresh Meadow
- Fragrance Free

Baléa Exfoliating Body Wash, 400 ml, $4.99 CAD
With natural based moisturizers, this exfoliating body wash is the ultimate body wash for healthy, younger looking skin. Gently exfoliates dull, dry skin. While you lather, the micro encapsulated vitamin technology releases Vitamin E to your skin to help improve skin’s elasticity. For superior emollient and moisturizing benefits, this body wash is enriched with Aloe Vera and Mandarin extracts.
- Mandarin

Baléa Invisible Antiperspirant Stick, 45 g, $3.79 CAD
Balea antiperspirant goes on clear and stays that way, so you don’t have to worry about visible marks on your clothing.
- White Ginger & Nectarine
- Moisturizing
- Unscented

Baléa Clinical Care Antiperspirant, 75 ml, $8.99 CAD
This clinical strength liquid antiperspirant can be used daily for extra effective protection from underarm perspiration. It's both hypoallergenic and dermatologist tested.

Baléa Kids

Baléa 2-in-1 Tear Free Shampoo, 300 ml, $3.99 CAD
Specifically formulated to provide improved conditioning for children’s hair, this 2-in-1 shampoo cleanses and conditions dry hair and split ends, leaving hair extra soft and manageable while being gentle on the eyes. Also great for detangling, this ph-balanced kid-friendly shampoo helps to prevent knots and fly-aways. And kids will love the fruity fragrance!
- Rainbow Sherbert

Baléa Shave

Baléa Moisturizing Shave Cream, 150 ml, $5.49 CAD
Designed for women, these sumptuous and moisturizing shave creams promote smooth and touchable skin all year long. Three dermatologist-tested formulas include Nectarine & Yogurt, enriched with nectarine and yogurt extracts, as well as Vitamin A & E and Sensitive (unscented) options.

Baléa Solara Triple Blade Razors , package of 4, $6.49 CAD
Pivoting triple-blade disposable razors feature built-in aloe and shea butter for a smooth and close shave every time

Baléa Face

Baléa Facial Cleansing Cloths, package of 30, $8.99 CAD
Oil and alcohol free, these gentle dual use cleansing cloths are equipped with exfoliating microbeads on one side, while the other side is super soft and perfect for removing make-up.

Baléa 3-in-1 Cleansing Cloths, package of 60, $8.49 CAD
Suitable for all skin types, these convenient 3-in-1 facial cleansing cloths are both dermatologist tested and ophthalmologist tested. Easy to use, require no rinsing and provide the skin with cleansing toning and moisturizing actions, these cloths can be used in the morning and evening to cleanse the face and remove all impurities.

Baléa Wax Strips for Face & Bikini, $5.99 CAD
Designed for the delicate skin around the face and bikini area and dermatologist tested, these quick and easy wax strips ensure your skin stays smooth, soft and hair-free for up to four weeks. Post depilatory wipes moisturize the skin while removing any wax residue.
- Regular
- Sensitive


Baléa Lip Balm, $2.99 CAD
Soothe, protect and soften dry lips with this moisture-rich lip balm containing shea butter, cocoa butter and Vitamin E to moisturize and condition.
- Marionberry & Honey
- Cara Cara & Guava
- Acai & Mango

Baléa Lip Balm SPF 30, $2.99 CAD
Moisturize and reinvigorate your dry chapped lips with this moisturizing lip balm that contains Aloe and Vitamin E and helps to protect against exposure to the sun, wind and cold. This lush PABA-free balm provides UVA & UVB broad spectrum SPF 30 protection.