Just Grow Already Product Review: Kurlee Belle Banana Nut & Avocado Deep Treatment

Price: $16 for 8 oz jar

Purchased From: Kurleebelle.com 

Promises: "Banana Nut & Avocado Deep Treatment is just what the doctor ordered for dry, damaged hair. Bring those tresses back to life with our smooth concoction of Banana, Avocado, Honey and Coconut. Banana is rich in potassium and hailed for its moisturizing properties. Avocado contains fatty acids that nourish, smooth and soften hair. Honey provides shine while conditioning to make hair soft and supple. Coconut hydrates, conditions and softens. The No List: No parabens. No sulfates. No Animal Ingredients. No Gluten. No Paraffin. No Phthalates. No Mineral Oil. No PABA. No DEA. No Synthetic Color. No Propylene Glycol. No Petroleum."

Directions: Apply a generous amount to wet hair. Gently massage into scalp and comb through with fingers or wide tooth comb. Cover with a plastic cap. Sit under hooded dryer for 5-20 minutes. Rinse with cool water. 

Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetyl Alcohol, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Stearic Acid, Potassium Sorbate, Musa Sapientum (Banana) Fruit Basil Oil, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Honey Extract, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Tocopheryl Acetate, Disodium EDTA, Sodium Hydroxide, Fragrance (Parfum). 

My Assessment: The first time I used this conditioner, it honestly confused me haha. When it's first scooped out it's on the thin side and has a gel-like feel, but after rubbing my palms together it quickly thickens to a creamy texture. Also, because of the consistency a little goes a long way.

On application it sinks into my hair, defines my new growth nicely (instantly triggering my hand-in-hair syndrome) and provides lots of slip, which I absolutely appreciate with all this new growth! Because of the slip it provides (and I do this with all conditioners), applying it first to my ends made it super easy to part my hair into smaller sections to get to my new growth.

I have deep conditioned with this conditioner both overnight and with heat from either my Hot Head heat cap or my Gold N' Hot conditioning cap, but it works best for me with heat (penetrates into my hair more effectively). It also has a pleasant fragrance that does not linger and rinses out well (does not cling to my hair or scalp).

After deep conditioning my hair feels so soft, smooth, and detangled. My bone straight ends clump together more than my new growth or texlaxed hair, but that's now the norm with my hair. Best thing about this conditioner is that the moisture it provides lasts. I used this conditioner to deep condition over night when I did my recent flexi rod set and was able to go 5 days without moisturizing my hair. Here's my day 4 hair from that flexi rod set.

For my wash days posts where this deep conditioner is used, check out this post, this post, aaannnnd this post.

Have you used this deep conditioner? Like it? Love it? Left it?

Disclosure of Material Connection: Items in this post were purchased with my own funds. I have not received any compensation for writing this post. I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” - See more at: http://www.justgrowalready.com/2014/03/product-review-kurlee-belle-banana-nut.html#sthash.j1rqaYMR.dpuf

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What's causing your dry, itchy, scabby scalp?

Itching, flaking and scabbing are signs that your scalp has stopped producing natural oils (sebum). This can be caused by chemical irritants in products, changes in weather, or diet.

Some products contain chemicals that may irritate the scalp causing excessive itching and scabbing. If you've changed shampoos, conditioners or styling aids this may be the cause of your discomfort. You should immediately stop using the products and find a product that is less irritable on your scalp.

You may not be getting enough sun. Exposure to the sun helps in killing bad bacteria that live on the scalp. If you are limiting your sun exposure, the bacteria can be multiply rapidly causing the scalp to itch.

Water is an essential part of life. If you are not drinking enough water, your body tends to channel the water that you are drinking to the parts of the body that need it most. Your scalp being lower on the totem pole doesn't receive adequate water to produce natural oils (sebum).

Natural home remedies that can restore your scalp back to normal: 

Aloe Vera is a herbal medication used in many products to relieve and soothe the skin. Aloe Vera acts as a deep conditioner to moisturize dry hair and has anti-fungal properties.  To relieve the scalp and heal the scabbed area, place the aloe vera gel directly on the scalp.  For this reason, Aloe Vera is one of the main ingredients in our Kurlee Belle's Thirsty Kurls Leave-In Conditioner.

Apple Cider Vinegar is a home remedy treatment with a variety of healing properties. You can find ACV in its pure form at any herbal store. Rinsing the scalp with a solution of a half a cup of water and a half a cup of ACV helps eliminate dryness by releasing bacteria that clog pores.  Warning: Be very careful not to get this solution in the eyes. Kurlee Belle's Almond & Shea Butter Moisturizing Shampoo contains apple cider vinegar.

Extra virgin olive oil can be used to moisturize the scalp and treat scabs. Warming the olive oil and then massaging into the scalp can help soothe itchy, irritated scalp. You can leave the oil for a few minutes or sit under a hooded dryer then rinse as usual. Kurlee Belle's Tropical Oils Blends has a ton of essential oils that soothe the scalp.

Is your scalp constantly itching, flaking or scabbing? Will you try any of the above home remedies? 

Deep Treatments & Oil Treatments

What's the difference between a deep conditioner and oil treatment?

Deep treatments help to smooth the cuticle, giving your hair a healthier appearance. Before using a deep treatment, you should always shampoo the hair to remove any dirt or build up. To be effective, deep treatments should be applied to the hair, particularly the ends the hair, and left on for a few minutes (15 to 20 minutes). The best deep treatments or conditioners are water based.

Each strand of hair has 3 layers: medulla, cortex, and cuticle. Deep conditioning affects the outer layer of the hair (cuticle). Think of the cuticle of your hair like you would the shingles on a roof. When shingles are in place on a roof, they overlap and lay down flat. The same is true of healthy hair. With damaged hair the cuticles stand up and away from the hair shaft giving your hair a dry frizzy look. Deep treatments help to smooth the cuticles by filling the gaps with nutrients that help the shingles to lay flat.

In addition to a deep treatment, a hot oil treatment can be done. Hot oil treatments are applied to dry hair before shampooing. Left to sit on the hair for a few minutes and rinsed out. Oil treatments are in the form of a liquid. Hot oil treatments minimize damage from styling by sealing in moisture and preventing frizz. Hot oil treatments soak into the hair.

When should I use a deep treatment or oil treatment?

If your hair is dry, frizzy, brittle or unmanageable, you need a deep treatment.

If you have dry scalp, dandruff, split ends, breakage, dry hair or seriously damaged hair a hot oil treatment should be used regularly.

Should I apply the treatment to wet or dry hair?

Deep treatments should be applied to damp hair.

Hot oil treatments should be applied to dry hair.

Should I shampoo my hair before or after?

There is no need to shampoo your hair after a deep treatment as you would like to retain moisture from the deep treatment. You may shampoo your hair after a hot oil treatment to rid your hair of excess oils.

Why use heat i.e. sit under a dryer?

Heat makes the hair shaft expand so that the treatment is absorbed. Example..when it's hot and humid your hair becomes frizzy because it is expanding to suck up the moisture out of the air.

Why should I rinse out my conditioner with cool water?

Cool water makes the hair shaft contract sealing in the nutrients from the deep or oil treatment.

What are the best hair oils?

Coconut oil, Castor oil, Avocado oil, Moringa oil, Argan oil, Vitamin E oil, Jojoba oil, Olive oil and Rosemary oil.

Kurlee Belle Banana Nut & Avocado Deep Treatment

Banana Nut & Avocado Deep Treatment is just what the doctor ordered for dry, damaged hair. Bring those tresses back to life with our smooth concoction of Banana, Avocado, Honey and Coconut. Banana is rich in potassium and hailed for its moisturizing properties. Avocado contains fatty acids that nourish, smooth and soften hair. Honey provides shine while conditioning to make hair soft and supple. Coconut hydrates, conditions and softens.

Kurlee Belle Tropical Oils Blend

Kurlee Tropical Oils Blend is a lubricating blend of essential tropical oils that is formulated to restore dry, damaged hair. Castor Oil is an emollient that contains fatty acids and encourages hair growth. Coconut oil strengthens and deeply moisturizes. Jojoba oil moisturizes and softens. Avocado oil contains essential nutrients that promote hair growth and nourishment. Argan oil hydrates and strengthens for enhanced growth. Moringa Oil leaves hair feeling silky.

Send questions/inquires to info@kurleebelle.com. We love hearing from you.

Follow our CEO on Instagram @terrinique

5 ways to keep your hair moisturized during the summer!

The summer isn't fully here, but the heat sure is. When it comes to natural hair, more heat means less moisture. So it is super important to protect your tresses from being fried. Overexposure to the sun can break down the protein in your hair, leaving it dry and brittle. Here are 5 helpful tips to help combat 90+ degree weather: 

1. Lots of Leave- In Conditioner- leave in conditioners coat and protect the hair giving your hair a boost of nourishment and shine. Fine hair use lightweight conditioners. Thick hair use a creamy rich conditioner. Kurlee Belle's Thirsty Kurls Leave-In conditioner provides lots of slip for de tangling and contains a ton of nutrients for dry damaged hair. 
2. Deep Treatments- Conditioning treatments add protein and nutrients to the hair. To retain moisture balance, aim to deep condition at least once a week or twice a week. Your hair will love the extra TLC and you may see some length retention. Kurlee Belle's Banana Nut & Avocado Deep Treatment is a smooth concoction that strengthens, conditions and enhances growth.
3. Oils- Oils help to lock in moisture by forming a protective layer over the hair shaft. After applying conditioner to wet hair, coat with oil to lock in moisture. Lightly spray the hair with water and apply oil each day. This will do wonders for your tresses. Pay close attention to the ends for length retention. Jojoba, coconut or extra virgin olive oil are my favourite picks. Kurlee Belle Tropical Oils Blend contains a special mix of essential oils to keep hair strong and moisturized. 
4. Cool water- rinsing your hair with cool water closes up the hair cuticle and seals in moisture from conditioning products. You can shampoo with warm water to remove dirt and build up but always rinse out conditioner with cool water. Kurlee Belle's Almond & Shea Butter Moisturizing Shampoo contains the right balance of cleansing and mositurizing agents. 
5. Wet hair before swimming- Dry hair absorbs everything. Ever wonder why your hair expands when it is humid out? It is because it is dry. Before jumping in the pool, completely wet your hair with water to avoid it soaking up unwanted chemicals like chlorine.

Extra tip: If you will  be spending extra time in the sun, invest in a straw hat. It works wonders in protecting your hair from UV rays. 

Follow us on Instagram @terrinique

So good it taste like CAKE! Conditioners & Deep Conditioners.

If you've just started your natural hair journey or a veteran in this game, you know that giving your hair extra TLC is key. I've said it numerous times, daily moisturizing and weekly conditioning is MUST. We know that water is the one true moisturizing agent and oils are the sealants....but what about conditioners? How important are they and what should I look for based on my hair needs?

An essential in any conditioner for curly, kinky, or coily hair is its detangling abilities but what should I use if I have thin, dry or damaged hair?

Is this you? "When I take pictures the flash shows all the gaps in my afro"--->You have thin hair. 
Solution: Volumizing Conditioners coat the hair and act as a thickening agent. In essence building up volume in the hair shaft. 


Is this you?  "My hair feels like straw and looks really dull"---> You have dry hair. 
Solution: Moisturizing Conditioners replenish the moisture lacking in dry, brittle hair and adds body and sheen. Evenly coat the strands before washing away. You don't have to see the product to know that it's working. If you can see it sitting on top of your hair. You know you've applied to much. 

Is this you?  "I flat iron and color my hair a lot. It's not as healthy as it used to be"---> You need protein. 

Solution: Protein Conditioners feed the hair and help strengthen the hair shaft by replenishing nutrients taken out by chemical processing. 

Is this you?  "I just got the bomb-A$$ color but now it's starting to look dull. "---> You need a color pick me up. 

Solution: Color-Safe Conditioners don't strip the hair of its color but add a little boost to your already glowing locks. 

No matter what condition your hair is in, every girl needs a good leave in and deep conditioner. 

Leave-in Conditioners should be used in addition to your regular conditioner for extra moisture. If you use a regular conditioner and wash it out, your hair isn't getting the moisture it requires and that's where a good leave in conditioner comes in. 

Deep Conditioners are essential no matter your hair condition. Dry or healthy, you can always use a good conditioning. Deep conditioners restore the pH balance in your hair, replenishing any nutrients lost from too much coloring and over processing. DC's should be done every six to eight weeks or as much as possible. 

Here is the recipe to my Banana & Avocado Deep Conditioner that I created. 

1 Banana--(use a rotten banana---(black skin ensures that its rotten)

1 Egg

1/2 cup Mayo

1 teaspoon avocado oil

1 teaspoon vitamin e oil

1 teaspoon jojoba oil

1 teaspoon castor oil

Blend all ingredients together with a blender. It is very important that the banana is blended smooth. If not you may have chunks of banana residue left over after your wash. 

Coat strands evenly.

Apply a plastic cap.

Sit under hooded dryer for 15 to 20 mins. 

Rinse with shampoo.

Apply regular conditioner and leave in.

Style as usual. 

My hair was really soft after using this combination. 

This batch makes a lot of conditioner. Refrigerate the rest and reapply in one week. 

Which hair problem do you identify with?

Natural Hair Spa: 6 ways to tame dry frizzy hair

The best things in life are free....for those that are not free...the best things in life serve multiple purposes. Like the pair of black pointed toe heels that go with a suit or skinny legs. Or your favorite blazer that adds that extra 'umph' to any outfit. Lucky for us hair fanatics our kitchen serves a multiple purpose in nourishing our body's and hair!

Here are some delicious recipes to help tame naturally dry and frizzy hair:

1. Castor Oil and Olive Oil

Prepare a deep-conditioning mixture for your lifeless locks. In a bowl mix 2 tsp of Castor Oil with 1 tbs of olive oil and 1 egg yolk. After you've obtained a fine paste apply to your locks. 

Then cover your strands with a plastic wrap. Leave the treatment overnight or at least an hour for quick and amazing results. Rinse off the mixture with a tiny amount of shampoo and tepid water.

2. Nut Oil and Lemon Oil 

Restore the fine and glossy texture of your hair with this simple treatment. In a bowl mix 2 egg yolks with 1 tbs of nut oil and 1 drop of lemon essential oil. 

Massage this hair pack in your locks and scalp then cover your hair with a warm towel. Leave the mixture on for 40 minutes then wash it off with lukewarm water and a few drops of shampoo.

3. Avocado and Wheatgerm Oil

Massage deep-conditioning treatments in your locks to have strong and healthy strands. Use a blender to mix 1 egg with ½ peeled avocado and 2 tsp of wheatgerm oil. Spread the treatment uniformly all over your tresses and leave it on for 30 minutes. Remove the traces of the nourishing mask with a few drops of shampoo and tepid water.

4. Corn Flour and Tomato Juice

Pamper your frizzy locks with an efficient and nourishing treatment. In a bowl mix 1 tbs of corn flour and 1 glass of organic tomato juice. Apply the hair pack on your damp locks and cover your head with a towel. After 30 minutes rinse off the treatment with tepid water and a tiny amount of shampoo. Repeat this hair care ritual twice a week for quick results.

5. Pear and Apple Cider Vinegar

The following hair treatment recipe guarantees the soft and silky texture of your locks. Use a blender to mix a medium sized pear chopped into tiny pieces with 2 tbs of apple cider vinegar and a tiny amount of water to prepare an easy-to-apply paste. Spread the mixture all over your locks and leave the treatment on for 20 minutes. The last step is to wash off the hair pack with lukewarm water.

6. Soy and Water

Mix 7 tsp of soy with 1 glass of warm water and apply the mixture on your wet locks. Leave the hair pack on for 10 minutes then rinse it off with tepid water. Soy is rich in protein a nutrient which can restore the voluminous and healthy texture of your locks.

*tepid water- moderately warm or lukewarm water

Enjoy!