Scandinavian Biolabs Hair Growth Routine 30-day Review

Who here has issues with their scalp and hair? I definitely do, especially in the last few years. So, when Scandinavian Biolabs asked me to give their products a try, I was excited to give it a try even though I did hesitate for a bit.

I’m very wary of hair products and their misleading & empty promises, but after researching and talking to their rep for more information, I decided to accept their kind offer & provide my own Scandinavian Biolabs Hair Growth Routine 30-day review in return.

scandinavian biolabs hair growth serum, shampoo and conditioner set
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Irresistible Me Hair Extension Review

Today’s post is an Irresistible Me Hair Extension review! This is my first encounter with a hair extension on myself, so it was an interesting experience. I have had to put hair extension on clients, mostly brides, but never on myself, so I was looking forward to giving this extension a try. Have you guys try any hair extension before? What are your thoughts? Leave your comments below!

Anyways, back to this hair extension review. So, I was contacted by a rep from Irresistible Me to give their product a try. A big shout-out and thank you to Irresistible Me for sending me this hair extension. I was recommended by them to give their 22 inch Royal Remy hair extension a try.

 

Irresistible Me hair extension review

The hair extension comes in a nice black box, and inside you’ll receive 2 pieces of hair extension – the big one (on the left) is the hair extension itself, the smaller one (on the right) is actually a sample for you to try on before opening the bigger one. If you try the sample and the color doesn’t match, you can return the hair extension and ask for an exchange. For their exchange policy, please refer to their website.

Anyways, so I received the 22inch Royal Remy hair extension, and as soon as I took it out of the box, I can see right away that this hair extension is of a pretty good quality. The hair was full and thick, and there was very little shedding. I’m very impressed with the quality.

 

Irresistible Me hair extension review

To be honest, since I’m growing out my hair, I have a bit of color at the tips of my hair. The ends of my hair are more on the lighter brown side, but since I didn’t feel like coloring my hair anytime soon, I decided to go with Natural Black for when the hair all grown out and I trim the ends off in the future. Anyways, the color Natural Black matches my natural hair color perfectly. If you guys need help with finding the right shade for you, please check out their Youtube channel or Pinterest page. On their youtube channel, you can also find the video on how to wear your extension.

I’m very happy with this hair extension, and I can’t wait to give it a try after my hair grows out, and I can trim my ends. Funny story, just on Saturday when I was doing makeup on my Bridal client, she took out the same Irresistible Me hair extensions for the hair stylist to use! It looked really amazing, so if you are looking for a great quality hair extension, definitely check out Irresistible Me. Irresistible Me hair extension Natural Black

 

Left – current hair length (just slightly below collar bone); Right – with 22″ Irresistible Me Royal Remy hair extension

Disclaimer:

 

  • This product was sent to me by Irresistible Me Hair Extensions.
  • This review is based on my personal experience.
  • I do not gain any monetary profit from writing this review.
  • Links to Q-depot are NOT affiliated links.
  • I am not liable for any damage occurred to you while using this product.

 

Highlights for Brunette

Howdy, everyone?! As you all know, I’ve recently went to the salon to get a trim, and a little bit of highlights on my hair. A lot of people have messaged me requesting for a post on these highlights for Brunette. So, here goes the full detail on how I get these highlights!

First of all, I get my hair done by a professional. I think highlights, color and trim should be left to the professionals whenever possible. I do not recommend you doing this at home with a DIY kit. I went to The Hairem Salon at Locke Street, Hamilton, Canada. My hairstylist is Vera, and I recommend her for anyone who is interested in getting their hair done.

I went to Vera and showed her a few pics from Pinterest showing I wanted to put in some highlights. Now, if you have been following me for a while, you’d have known that I’ve had very subtle caramel brown highlights back in 2011 (e.g. Fresh Look post), which was also done by Vera. I was very happy with the result back then, and I’m pretty comfortable with her handling my hair. I’ve been going to her since 2011, so she knows what I like.

Anyways, I told her this time I was willing to go lighter and bolder than before. She loved the ideas, and told me that she’d have to bleach a few pieces of my hair, and for the bottom layers she was going to put in my fav. caramel highlights. I said no problem, go ahead! In addition, she also mentioned she was going to give me the ombre look.

 

 

Blonde highlight on Asian

As far as I know, Vera added caramel highlights on the bottom layers, and she bleached some part of my hair, esp. the front and top layers. Then, after a quick wash, she added 3 different toners on my hair – dark (for the top section), medium and light (for the bottom section).

After about 3-hour on the chair, my hair was colored, trimmed and blow-dried! The damage was pretty intense on my wallet (ard $200), but it was all worth it! I was worried that the bleach might turned my hair brassy and dry, but not at all! It was soft, and to my surprise, very blonde! I can never imagine my hair that light, since I’ve had bad experience in the past with bleach. Usually my hair just turned orange if bleached, you would know if your hair is as dark as mine. Usually, us Asians don’t get that lucky with bleach. However, I’m so glad it turns up blonde! Vera said she had to use the 40% (developer) on my hair.

I was quite surprised when a lot of my followers on Instagram, friends, and fellow bloggers mentioned how good my hair looks! Yay! Feel free to use my pictures and be brought to your hairstylist if you want similar highlights.

I simply love how different my hair look when I’m out in the sun! It’s super gorgeous, and golden! I do miss my old dark hair, but I’m ecstatic to have these highlights in! I love how the blonde pieces are peeking through everywhere. Since there aren’t too many blonde streaks, the whole look isn’t tacky, you know what I mean? It’s still different, and chic at the same time. I love my caramel highlights and the ombre effect it gives.

It has been 3 weeks since I had it done, and it still looks amazing! If you want to see more pictures of my hair straight with the highlights, go over to my Instagram! I’ve posted several pics of my hair there, as well as a picture with Vera.

ombre hair

If you want to go to Vera, below is her contact info:

The Hairem Salon

144 Locke Street South
Hamilton, ON
Canada

Phone no: (905) 296-7493

 

Disclaimer: I am not affiliated nor endorsed by The Hairem Salon. All services are paid by me using my own money. All review on this blog is based on my honest opinion.

In Trend: Hair Do 2014 [Guest Post]

Karlie Kloss, a model for Vogue recently got a new haircut that has really captured the imagination of the people. The hype has been so surreal regarding her hairstyle that New York Times did an article about it and Vogue themselves detailed her cut.

The hair cut falls perfectly between the shoulders and the chin and people have been raving about it claiming that the hairstyle is irresistibly casual and chic, a wash and wear hairstyle. Of course, not everyone looks like Karlie Kloss hence the appeal of the hairstyle in the daily street may not be as high, even so, Karlie has prompted interest in debate over hair dos so here’s a list of a few prominent hairstyles of 2014.

  • The Gatsby Do

Baz Luhrman’s The Great Gatsby sparked a revival of the hairstyles of yesteryears, specifically, the 1920s. People all over the world have been inspired to opt for vintage hair pieces, feathers, pinned curls and red bow lips. A retrograde look which is still chic and relevant and still causes many a passerby to stare involuntarily.

  • Blunt Bangs

Naomi Campbell may not be liked by all quarters, but no one will disagree with her great hair. Sporting blunt bangs and long hair, Campbell’s style has prompted many to emulate her. Upkeep is an issue though with frequent trips required to the salon. However, one could maintain them on their own by purchasing  professional scissors such as those found on www.coolblades.co.uk.

  • Le Pompadour

Miley Cyrus sparked a rage when she removed her tresses to sport a pompadour. A lot of people went bonkers over it and now there are various instances of the pompadour around. The ‘faux hawk’ has now become a trendy hair cut and the King, Elvis himself would’ve been proud of his legacy.

  • Ombre Coloring

Highlights highlight. Well they do. They can raise the oomph factor tremendously and if that is not the desired result, then they can simply add to the fun factor and the zest of a haircut. Women’s highlights add to the feminity of a woman while adding some youthful flavor and creativity to the hair cut. The ombre hair cut has a double toned appearance which has a lovely layered appearance.

  • Medium Bedhead

The Bedhead is the epitome of cool, the carefully careless look with just the right amount of shape and messiness. Medium length hair is the best for such ambitions and the best part of said length is that it can be grown when one gets sick of the hairstyle, which happens to everyone.

  • The Sleek Bun

The sleek bun is too severe a look for one but when carried off successfully, it is more graceful and pleasing than a lot of other more complicated hairstyles. Parted in the middle, this hairstyle does require cheekbones and facial features to be symmetric else one can end up looking like a very strict German teacher, though some German teacher’s do look quite fetching.

  • Braid Away

The braid will never go away, it’s a symbol of woman hood, of simple beauty and elegance, girls with braids always have an innocent allure to them which added by their features, makes them all the more beautiful.

Hairstyles have defined fashion since the days of Audrey Hepburn and Greta Garbo, and the modern hairstyle resemble the advancement and evolution of fashion while also harkening back to an era which made fashion come to the fore of culture. Maintaining such hair styles is always difficult but getting equipment such as professional scissors from www.coolblades.co.uk will help in keeping hair in shape. Tresses are modes of expression, they should be styled and exploited and made with creativity and imagination.

Bio:

Victoria H is a senior Fashion Buyer for some of the UK’s largest brands. She works for Cool Blades who offer specialist hairdressing & beauty salon supplies. She has worked with leading salons across the country and has garnered experience which she uses to provide solutions related to tresses.

NailPolishCanada is giving away 3 Babyliss Miracurls

It’s a Christmas Miracurl! – NailPolishCanada.com is giving away 3 Babyliss Miracurl’s ($600 value)

Every holiday season millions experience a sense of sadness at the flatness in their life. In an effort to cope some find themselves straining important relationships.

“I know my husband loves me, but another day where I’m running late trying to curl my hair in a mad dash is just a fight waiting to happen”  – Katie B

Could people go without curled hair? They could, but experts agree such a lack of regard and care is sure to result in a coal filled stocking.

“After the economic downturn Santa has had limited resources and he too has to make cuts, it’s not only naughty or nice anymore, but how you present yourself.” noted Mrs. Claus

Today Nail Polish Canada has announced their plans to take a stand and solve this important issue with the Babyliss Miracurl. In just seconds the Miracurl literally sucks your hair right in, curls it, then beeps letting you know it’s done.

Babyliss Miracurl Giveaway

In order to raise awareness Nail Polish Canada is giving away 3 Babyliss Miracurls, to whoever can convince us they are the most “in need” of one.

“This will impact people’s lives. Together we can make a Christmas Miracurl”  
– Nikki Smith, VP Glitter * This is our favorite pun ever and we’ve been using it around the office for weeks

Simply describe why you or a loved one is in need of a Christmas Babyliss Miracurl at: http://www.nailpolishcanada.com/products/miracurl-by-babyliss.html

In the spirit of a true Christmas Miracurl the winners will be announced Christmas Day!

Notes about nominations: Feel free to stretch the truth a bit and most importantly have fun.

For further info please contact tiffany@nailpolishcanada.com

Unboxing Beauty Treats Indonesia!

After a long wait for my first Beauty Treats package to arrive, I finally got my hands on it! Today’s box was quite late because apparently they were changing their courier service, so there was a delay. Also, just to let you guys know, if you did not input the special code given to you for payment confirmation, they will not notify you that there’s something wrong with your payment. You do have to contact them if you have issues with payment and subscription, don’t expect them to contact you.

Anyhooow, let’s get to the good stuffs! The package arrived safely. I love the little “sshh…it’s a secret!” slogan. I think it’s cute. Inside the package, there’s a little “thank-you” note, and I find it very lovely that they handwritten my name. I think it’s a nice personal touch.

Beautytreats indonesia

You will find a booklet explaining which brands and products are inside this month’s box. The booklet also contain the full description of each item and their original price should you be interested in buying the original size. I heard that they will be releasing a new section on their website where you can buy the full-size products online. On the last 2 pages, they included makeup tutorials, which you can also find on their Facebook page and website.

The beautytreats package comes in a pretty pink box, with black ribbon tied around it. I’m keeping the box, and probably will use it as an organizer or to keep my stuffs inside. It’s pretty sturdy! Inside the box you’ll find vouchers and booklets from the different brands that are partnered with beautytreats. Beautytreats indonesia

So, what’s inside this month’s box?

1. Make Up For Ever Rouge Artist Natural lipstick – test set.

2. Rudy Hadisuwarno Hair Intense Repair Serum – real size!

3. Hada Labo Gokujyun Alpha Ultimate Anti-aging, Shirojyun and Gokujyun Ultimate Whitening – 15ml/bottle.

4. Travel-size Skin Aqua moisturizers (super cute!) – 15ml/bottle.

5. Face on Face Nourishing Blush on Blooming Rose – real size! (as big as an eyeshadow..so adorable).

6. Acne Pore Strip – 1 sachet.

7. Masami Shouko White Puff with Black Fabric – real size.

8. Koji Eyeliner Pencil – sample size.

9. D’eyeko lashes – real size.

Other subscribers might receive the following products instead of the Masami Shouko White Puff:

  • Biokos Derma Bright Set, or
  • Caring Colors BB Cream Fair White, or
  • Caring Colours BB Cream Everlast, or
  • Caring Colours BB Cream Luminizing, or
  • Lioele 3D Lifting Mask.make up for ever indonesia

Update: as of July 2, 2013, I’m very disappointed with Beauty Treats Indonesia. The June box arrived in July 2, the products as well as the amount of products inside the box were not up to standard. 

Salon of The Week: Do Hair Salon

Just to change up a little, this week’s installment of Product of the Week is changed to Salon of the Week! First of all, just to clear things of, I paid for all the services in the salon out of my own pocket. This is not an advertisement or endorsement. I do not gain anything from the salon or the stylist by reviewing about this salon.

As you guys know from my Twitter and Instagram, I went to a salon to get my hair colored and trimmed. I’ve been wanting to go ombre for a while, but last year when I did it in another salon in Jakarta, my ombre highlights ended up in a disaster. I decided that it’s time to give it another try, but was concerned as to which salon I should go.

In Canada, I usually go to Hairem salon with Vera, who is an amazing hairstylist. She knows how to cut my hair and colored it the way I love. I’ve high expectations for the next stylist who’ll touch my mane. Being away from Jakarta for way too long, I was unsure if anyone could live up to the standard that I have. I’m actually not that picky with salons and stylists, but since the ombre disaster I’m more wary about which stylists/salons I picked.

Now, 10-13 years a go, I went to this home salon, Do Hair Salon, yearly to get my hair trimmed and colored whenever I returned to Jakarta for the Summer. I tried to relocate the salon, but since I couldn’t remember the way to get there, and I thought all hope was lost. Until, I found out that the salon has moved to a commercial area.

I was so excited and decided that it was time to give the salon a visit. To my surprise, all the staff was still working there. It was great to see familiar faces. Not to mention, the Owner/Master Hairstylist still remembered me! Ko Harry was very pleasant and he knew what I wanted.

Back in my teens, I had my hair dyed purple and red with him, and he managed to do it without having the need to bleach my hair. However, now I like my hair colors to be subtle, much like my daily makeup. I think as I get older, I preferred subtle colors now. Not to mention, in my non-makeup job, I have to present myself to look professional. Nevertheless, I still wanted to bring a little bit of “oomph” into my hair.

Anyhow, I wanted a brown ombre for my hair, since blonde might look harsh and damaging. As soon as I said I wanted an Ombre hair, he immediately whipped out his special recipe and gave me the colors that I wanted. Ko Harry knew exactly what I want. He gave me a beautiful reddish-brown color for the base that gradually gets lighter at the ends. He mixed a little bit of orange on the tips and the end result was awesome!

He also gave me a warranty – if the ends weren’t light enough I could return to get it lightened for free. I used it. I returned and get the ends lightened a bit more so that it showed up even more. I loooove the result and I think my hair looks a little bit more shiny than usual.

Price for trim, color, wash, blow-dry: Rp. 1,300,000 (around USD$130).

Do Hair Salon is located at Centro Metro Broadway Blok A-16 Pantai Indah Kapuk (PIK). Their phone number is: 021-30010337

For a front-look photo, please head over to my Instagram 🙂

Brown Ombre hair

Caruso Hair Steam Setter

I think that heat tools pretty much suck the moisture out of the hair, since the heat evaporates the water in your hair. Obviously there’s lots of heat-protectant spray and such, but I believe that it’s better to prevent it from happening than having to try to “heal” it after the damage has occurred.

I tried the whole “sleep-with-your-hair-wet-in buns” but really, my fine hair loses any type of volume and it just becomes super flat and limp. One of my favorite fashion bloggers, Wendy Nguyen (from Wendy’s Lookbook), had a video where she used Caruso Hair Steam Setter to create curls.

Caruso Hair Steamer

(image is courtesy of Amazon)

I got really curious and I was able to get my hands on the Caruso Hair Steamer from Amazon for a very good price: cad$35.44 (tax included) for the Professional 30 rollers set. I think it’s more expensive now, but still, pretty cheap :)

So, the rollers are made from foam and you heat it up using water. How it works is that the heated water evaporates, causing hot steam that seep through the foam rollers. You put your hair on these rollers, wait for 3-minute (or leave it on when you do your makeup), and voila! Volume and curls!

Hair Rollers

These rollers don’t give much volume. It gives just enough and I love how the curls end up. I also feel that since it uses steam, it does less damage to the hair. It actually gives the hair more moisture instead of sucking the moisture out of it.

Curling asian hair

The rollers are also waaay cheaper than the Babyliss hot rollers or The O velcro hot rollers. If you’re just starting or want to give rollers a try, you should keep this roller set in mind. I love the big bouncy curls and how I don’t have to put extra styling product on my hair.

Please keep in mind that I purchased this using my own money and I’m not sponsored by Caruso.