Product Review: Goody Updo Maker

A few weeks ago, I posted that I found a replacement for my claw clips.  Well, that didn't last very long.

I've been using the Updo Maker daily since then, but now the coating on it is peeling.  I'm not sure whether the problem is the coarseness of my hair, or the oils I use that is causing it to peel. But now when I insert the Updo Maker, it no longer glides in smoothly and it feels like it will break or cut my hair in the process.  So now I have to find another way to pin my hair up while at home.

Did this happen to anyone else? Any other suggestions?

Product Review: Curlformers

I washed my hair on Tuesday and decided to try out the Curlformers.  It was an impromptu decision, so I didn't record this time, but I'll use them again and do a tutorial.  I used 16 Curlfomers in the Long and Extra Wide size.  I bought them from Sally's a few weeks ago. 

How I used this product:

1. Washed, deep conditioned and lightly blow dried to about 95% dry (I was tired, so I didn't blowdry completely)
2. Using the 8 sections I wash in, I split each section into 2 sections, and applied a Curlformer for a total of 16 Curlformers used.   I alternate the colors, so the curls weren't going in the same direction. 

Curlformers

As you can see in the picture, I didn't apply the Curlformers close to my scalp.  There are two reasons for this: 1) I only wanted the ends to be curled, and 2) My hair is so long that if I start at my roots, the ends would stick out the bottom of the Curlfomers.

Having the Curlformers on the ends of my hair, also allowed me to pin up my hair so I could sleep comfortably. 

Hair pinned up in the back

Front pinned up

Covered with my silk bonnet

Removed Curlformers

Curl

My Experience
The Curlformers were very easy to use and I was able to apply all 16 in about 30 minutes.  Since my hair was only lightly blow dried, the thickness of my hair posed a challenge to pull through the roller.  I can definitely see how not taking your time can cause damage and leave you with broken pieces.  I had minimal breakage which would easily be avoided if my hair was flat ironed or blow dried straighter.  I certainly would not be able to use the smaller width on lightly blow dried hair, because the opening is smaller, and would cause damage when I pull my thick hair through.  So I plan to use the Long and Wide on flat ironed hair only.

I really liked the Curlformers and I'm looking forward to using them on flat ironed hair.  The curls didn't last very long (maybe a couple hours), but I think that's because I lightly blow dried.  My hair tends to hold curls better when I use higher heat.  So after I flat iron, my hair is more receptive to holding curls without using additional heat. 

Test period - First time used.

Like/Dislike? - Like.

 

Reader Mail: How to find products outside the US?

I received an email today from a reader that is having difficulty finding the products I use in the UK.  I want to share my response, because I believe it might be helpful to anyone who is having the same issue whether you live in the US or not. 

"My suggestion is that you try to find products that have comparable ingredients in the UK.  I strongly believe that any well made product that is tailored to your hair needs (ex. moisturizing, if you need extra moisture; protein, if you need extra strength) will help you retain length.  The next time you see a woman with long hair where you live, ask her what products she uses.  You don't necessarily need products for type 4 hair in order to get good results.  In fact, the majority of products I use are not marketed for women with type 4 hair.  But hair is hair.  So as long as a product offers what you need, then it may work for you."

If you still have difficulty finding comparable products or you are determined to find an exact product then try the internet. 

The internet is a fantastic resource when looking for products.  Here are some things I've done in the past when looking for products:

1. Search for the name of product you want.  This will likely find an online store that sells the product.  View their shipping info to see if they ship to your country.  If it doesn't state whether they do, then ask them.
2. Search for the ingredients of the product you want.  Most products list their ingredients on the manufacturer's website.  So copy and paste the first 5 ingredients and run a search to find other products with the same ingredients. 
3. Contact the manufacturer and ask them if they have distributors in your country. 

I hope this helps.