Month: January 2021

I Tried Shea Moisture’s New Wig & Weave Line—Here Are My Honest Thoughts

As obsessive as it may sound, one of my favorite pastimes is scrolling through my Instagram feed and basting in the sheer amazement of wig applications. There’s something so satisfying about watching a wig go from packaging to seamless application that leaves you wondering if it’s really a wig—or if it’s magic. Over the years, innovative products and tools have launched to help wig wearers apply and style wigs at home. The newest contender to enter the wig and weave haircare arena is Shea Moisture’s Wig & Weave Collection for human and synthetic hair. The line gives wig enthusiasts gentle yet effective options to style, install and care for wigs at home without compromising the health of their hair, scalp, or wallet.

While reaching for your everyday hair products to care for your wigs may seem like the easiest thing to do, these products tend to cause build-up in hair extensions, which may require you to wash your wigs more frequently, shortening the life span in the process. Products designed especially for wigs help you care for them without compromising the fibers, whether the wig is human hair or synthetic.

You’re probably most familiar with Shea Moisture’s wide range of products catering to natural hair, particularly for curly and coily hair types. Now your beloved units and extensions have a range of products to call their own. Contrary to popular belief, hair extensions need lots of love and attention to look great. With this new line, Shea Moisture is helping folks keep their wigs in tip-top shape for their best looks ever.

 

shea moisture wig collection I Tried Shea Moisture’s New Wig & Weave Line—Here Are My Honest Thoughts

I tried Shea Moisture’s new Wig & Weave collection on my wig at home and here are my super-honest thoughts about all seven products.

Our mission at STYLECASTER is to bring style to the people, and we only feature products we think you’ll love as much as we do. Please note that if you purchase something by clicking on a link within this story, we may receive a small commission of the sale.

SheaMoisture Wig Weave Residue Remover Shampoo I Tried Shea Moisture’s New Wig & Weave Line—Here Are My Honest Thoughts

Wig & Weave Residue Remover Shampoo

The wrong shampoo can compromise a good wig in an instant. I’m happy to report that unlike some shampoos I’ve tried on my wigs in this past, this one got my wig clean without leaving the hair feeling dry or brittle. It did wonders for getting rid of residue that built up in the lace from customizing it with makeup, glue and styling products from previous installs. Instead of massaging the wig with shampoo to get rid of build-up, I prefer to use the ‘bubble bath’ method, dunking the wig in a bath in the sink or bucket with diluted shampoo. This method does an amazing job of cleaning extensions without tangling them in the process.

SheaMoisture Wig Weave 2 in 1 Conditioner and Detangler for Human and Synthetic Hair I Tried Shea Moisture’s New Wig & Weave Line—Here Are My Honest Thoughts

Wig & Weave 2-in-1 Conditioner and Detangler

When I condition my wigs, I also use the bubble bath method and allow my wig to sit in the diluted conditioner for up to 30 minutes. I was reluctant to try this conditioner/detangler combo because it’s merely a spray, but the proof is in the pudding. This concoction effortlessly detangled my wig, especially on the lace, which is more prone to knots and breakage. After using it, my wig was soft and defined without a tangle in sight.

SheaMoisture Wig Weave Scalp Soother I Tried Shea Moisture’s New Wig & Weave Line—Here Are My Honest Thoughts

Wig & Weave Scalp Soother

I had a small area on my scalp that was itchy before my wig application. I applied a few drops of this oil onto my scalp, put on my wig, and tied it down with my scarf and it was already relieved. If you have an itchy scalp from time to time, this may be a good solution to soothe your scalp in a matter of minutes. On the other hand, if you suffer from a chronically dry or irritated scalp, you may want to seek expert advice as this may not be an appropriate long-term solution.

wig after washing I Tried Shea Moisture’s New Wig & Weave Line—Here Are My Honest Thoughts

 I Tried Shea Moisture’s New Wig & Weave Line—Here Are My Honest Thoughts

Wig & Weave Flyaway and Wrap Mousse

Mousse is another one of those products that I often give a side-eye. While I love the definition that a good hair mousse can offer, I’m always nervous that it will leave my hair feeling dry and crunchy. Though I somewhat felt my hair harden from the mousse, it combated flyaways, too. My recommendation is to apply the mousse while your hair is wet to avoid using too much product.

 I Tried Shea Moisture’s New Wig & Weave Line—Here Are My Honest Thoughts

Wig & Weave Oil Shine Spray

I’m usually skeptical of using oil-based products on my wigs, however, this shine spray may be an exception. It’s lightweight and doesn’t leave the hair weighed down. Instead, it adds a healthy shine. While it’s suggested to spray the product directly onto the hair, I prefer to spray it into my hands and gently massage it through my hair. This keeps you from applying too much by mistake.

 I Tried Shea Moisture’s New Wig & Weave Line—Here Are My Honest Thoughts

Wig & Weave Bonding Glue

The first thing that you’ll notice about this Bonding Glue is that it feels nothing like glue at all. It has a somewhat slimy texture like a defining hair gel without that tackiness you’d expect. The label suggests applying the adhesive in thin layers and blow-drying on cool between applications to make the glue tacky. This didn’t work well for me. Not only did the bond take forever to get sticky, but my wig didn’t stick at all. I gave it another shot, but this time I applied a thin layer of adhesive, put on my wig, and tied down my hair with a scarf. This helped my wig adhere. Though it’s not as strong as other adhesives I’ve used, it’s a good option for someone who plans to remove their wig by the end of the day.

SheaMoisture Wig Weave Bond Release Spray I Tried Shea Moisture’s New Wig & Weave Line—Here Are My Honest Thoughts

Wig & Weave Bond Release Spray

This alcohol-free spray got rid of the glue residue left on my wig, forehead and edges. I sprayed it onto a cotton pad and massaged where needed. In addition to removing the glue, it left my edges feeling incredibly soft.

STYLECASTER | Ashley Benson Interview

Read More

Never Be Invisible Again! 3 Secrets to Being Seen After 60

Senior woman reinventing yourself

There’s a rumor circulating that after a certain age women disappear. Not literally, of course, but for all practical purposes many older women feel overlooked, dismissed and ignored. Curiosity drove me to investigate why some of us fade out while others continue to be noticed.

But before I divulge the secrets to banishing the cloak of invisibility forever, I think it’s important to validate what happens to women as we leave menopause behind.

Portrait of a Disappearing Woman

First of all, everything changes. Our metabolism slows. Sexy curves redistribute. The waist thickens, the butt flattens, and the breasts sag. Simultaneously our once tight skin develops the elasticity of an old bra strap, and our thinning hair goes gray.

Nobody can really prepare for these changes and when they come, depression often comes too. Low-grade, nagging unhappiness weakens our immune system. Health deteriorates, and the earmarks of aging: pill boxes, supplements, and laxative milk shakes, are our new companions.

Mentally, our focus shifts from outer interests to an unhealthy obsession with the latest trip to the doctor, what medications we’re taking, and the procedures that might be required. We’re eager to acquaint anyone who will listen with a detailed litany of our maladies, real or imagined. Fascinating stuff, right? Wait. There’s more.

Accompanying the fixation on body betrayal, the way we carry ourselves morphs. A slower gait develops with no spring in our step. Shoulders hunch forward, the back curves, the stomach pooches and frown lines wrinkle the face.

The Disappearing Woman Explained

That’s a portrait of the woman who disappears. Why?

Because somewhere in the deep recesses of the brain everyone knows that they, too, will get old, and they’re terrified. So, it’s easier not to look at the mature shopper shuffling through the grocery aisles, leaning on the cart, with a mouth drooping downward at the corners. It reminds the younger set of its own mortality.

And those same Gen-X, Gen-Y, and Millennial people don’t engage the blue-haired neighbor down the hall because they might be roped into listening to her medical history before she even knows their names. I wish I were exaggerating.

The sad truth is that we’ve largely done it to ourselves. The cloak of invisibility is the dubious reward for small choices along the way that changed us from interesting “outties” to self-absorbed “innies.”

Redrawing the Portrait

But you can turn this around. Here are the secrets told to me by older women who claim they have never been overlooked for a single moment of their lives.

Secret Number One

Fill your lungs with air, lift your chin, throw your shoulders back, and sit and stand tall. Good posture shaves off 30 pounds and 20 years.

Secret Number Two

Walk like you’re going somewhere. Talk like you know what’s happening in the world. Ask questions like you’re interested in someone other than yourself.

Secret Number Three

Look in the mirror and practice a pleasant face. An impish smile that says, “I know the secret to long life and happiness and if you’re very, very good I just might share it with you!” is practically irresistible.

That’s it. Really. My saucy sources guarantee if you make those simple adjustments that cost nothing, you will not go unnoticed. People will seek you out. But be careful. I tried it and their prescription has serious side effects. You’ll immediately look and feel younger, and over time this behavior could make you a healthier, happier person.

Do you sometimes feel invisible and ignored in today’s world? What techniques do you use to remove that invisibility cloak and look and feel younger and more vibrant? Do you agree with these secrets to avoid feeling overlooked? Share your comments – and secrets – in the comments.

Read More

I Tried Shea Moisture’s New Wig & Weave Line—Here Are My Honest Thoughts

As obsessive as it may sound, one of my favorite pastimes is scrolling through my Instagram feed and basting in the sheer amazement of wig applications. There’s something so satisfying about watching a wig go from packaging to seamless application that leaves you wondering if it’s really a wig—or if it’s magic. Over the years, innovative products and tools have launched to help wig wearers apply and style wigs at home. The newest contender to enter the wig and weave haircare arena is Shea Moisture’s Wig & Weave Collection for human and synthetic hair. The line gives wig enthusiasts gentle yet effective options to style, install and care for wigs at home without compromising the health of their hair, scalp, or wallet.

While reaching for your everyday hair products to care for your wigs may seem like the easiest thing to do, these products tend to cause build-up in hair extensions, which may require you to wash your wigs more frequently, shortening the life span in the process. Products designed especially for wigs help you care for them without compromising the fibers, whether the wig is human hair or synthetic.

You’re probably most familiar with Shea Moisture’s wide range of products catering to natural hair, particularly for curly and coily hair types. Now your beloved units and extensions have a range of products to call their own. Contrary to popular belief, hair extensions need lots of love and attention to look great. With this new line, Shea Moisture is helping folks keep their wigs in tip-top shape for their best looks ever.

 

shea moisture wig collection I Tried Shea Moisture’s New Wig & Weave Line—Here Are My Honest Thoughts

I tried Shea Moisture’s new Wig & Weave collection on my wig at home and here are my super-honest thoughts about all seven products.

Our mission at STYLECASTER is to bring style to the people, and we only feature products we think you’ll love as much as we do. Please note that if you purchase something by clicking on a link within this story, we may receive a small commission of the sale.

SheaMoisture Wig Weave Residue Remover Shampoo I Tried Shea Moisture’s New Wig & Weave Line—Here Are My Honest Thoughts

Wig & Weave Residue Remover Shampoo

The wrong shampoo can compromise a good wig in an instant. I’m happy to report that unlike some shampoos I’ve tried on my wigs in this past, this one got my wig clean without leaving the hair feeling dry or brittle. It did wonders for getting rid of residue that built up in the lace from customizing it with makeup, glue and styling products from previous installs. Instead of massaging the wig with shampoo to get rid of build-up, I prefer to use the ‘bubble bath’ method, dunking the wig in a bath in the sink or bucket with diluted shampoo. This method does an amazing job of cleaning extensions without tangling them in the process.

SheaMoisture Wig Weave 2 in 1 Conditioner and Detangler for Human and Synthetic Hair I Tried Shea Moisture’s New Wig & Weave Line—Here Are My Honest Thoughts

Wig & Weave 2-in-1 Conditioner and Detangler

When I condition my wigs, I also use the bubble bath method and allow my wig to sit in the diluted conditioner for up to 30 minutes. I was reluctant to try this conditioner/detangler combo because it’s merely a spray, but the proof is in the pudding. This concoction effortlessly detangled my wig, especially on the lace, which is more prone to knots and breakage. After using it, my wig was soft and defined without a tangle in sight.

SheaMoisture Wig Weave Scalp Soother I Tried Shea Moisture’s New Wig & Weave Line—Here Are My Honest Thoughts

Wig & Weave Scalp Soother

I had a small area on my scalp that was itchy before my wig application. I applied a few drops of this oil onto my scalp, put on my wig, and tied it down with my scarf and it was already relieved. If you have an itchy scalp from time to time, this may be a good solution to soothe your scalp in a matter of minutes. On the other hand, if you suffer from a chronically dry or irritated scalp, you may want to seek expert advice as this may not be an appropriate long-term solution.

wig after washing I Tried Shea Moisture’s New Wig & Weave Line—Here Are My Honest Thoughts

 I Tried Shea Moisture’s New Wig & Weave Line—Here Are My Honest Thoughts

Wig & Weave Flyaway and Wrap Mousse

Mousse is another one of those products that I often give a side-eye. While I love the definition that a good hair mousse can offer, I’m always nervous that it will leave my hair feeling dry and crunchy. Though I somewhat felt my hair harden from the mousse, it combated flyaways, too. My recommendation is to apply the mousse while your hair is wet to avoid using too much product.

 I Tried Shea Moisture’s New Wig & Weave Line—Here Are My Honest Thoughts

Wig & Weave Oil Shine Spray

I’m usually skeptical of using oil-based products on my wigs, however, this shine spray may be an exception. It’s lightweight and doesn’t leave the hair weighed down. Instead, it adds a healthy shine. While it’s suggested to spray the product directly onto the hair, I prefer to spray it into my hands and gently massage it through my hair. This keeps you from applying too much by mistake.

 I Tried Shea Moisture’s New Wig & Weave Line—Here Are My Honest Thoughts

Wig & Weave Bonding Glue

The first thing that you’ll notice about this Bonding Glue is that it feels nothing like glue at all. It has a somewhat slimy texture like a defining hair gel without that tackiness you’d expect. The label suggests applying the adhesive in thin layers and blow-drying on cool between applications to make the glue tacky. This didn’t work well for me. Not only did the bond take forever to get sticky, but my wig didn’t stick at all. I gave it another shot, but this time I applied a thin layer of adhesive, put on my wig, and tied down my hair with a scarf. This helped my wig adhere. Though it’s not as strong as other adhesives I’ve used, it’s a good option for someone who plans to remove their wig by the end of the day.

SheaMoisture Wig Weave Bond Release Spray I Tried Shea Moisture’s New Wig & Weave Line—Here Are My Honest Thoughts

Wig & Weave Bond Release Spray

This alcohol-free spray got rid of the glue residue left on my wig, forehead and edges. I sprayed it onto a cotton pad and massaged where needed. In addition to removing the glue, it left my edges feeling incredibly soft.

STYLECASTER | Ashley Benson Interview

Read More

I Tried Shea Moisture’s New Wig & Weave Line—Here Are My Honest Thoughts

As obsessive as it may sound, one of my favorite pastimes is scrolling through my Instagram feed and basting in the sheer amazement of wig applications. There’s something so satisfying about watching a wig go from packaging to seamless application that leaves you wondering if it’s really a wig—or if it’s magic. Over the years, innovative products and tools have launched to help wig wearers apply and style wigs at home. The newest contender to enter the wig and weave haircare arena is Shea Moisture’s Wig & Weave Collection for human and synthetic hair. The line gives wig enthusiasts gentle yet effective options to style, install and care for wigs at home without compromising the health of their hair, scalp, or wallet.

While reaching for your everyday hair products to care for your wigs may seem like the easiest thing to do, these products tend to cause build-up in hair extensions, which may require you to wash your wigs more frequently, shortening the life span in the process. Products designed especially for wigs help you care for them without compromising the fibers, whether the wig is human hair or synthetic.

You’re probably most familiar with Shea Moisture’s wide range of products catering to natural hair, particularly for curly and coily hair types. Now your beloved units and extensions have a range of products to call their own. Contrary to popular belief, hair extensions need lots of love and attention to look great. With this new line, Shea Moisture is helping folks keep their wigs in tip-top shape for their best looks ever.

 

shea moisture wig collection I Tried Shea Moisture’s New Wig & Weave Line—Here Are My Honest Thoughts

I tried Shea Moisture’s new Wig & Weave collection on my wig at home and here are my super-honest thoughts about all seven products.

Our mission at STYLECASTER is to bring style to the people, and we only feature products we think you’ll love as much as we do. Please note that if you purchase something by clicking on a link within this story, we may receive a small commission of the sale.

SheaMoisture Wig Weave Residue Remover Shampoo I Tried Shea Moisture’s New Wig & Weave Line—Here Are My Honest Thoughts

Wig & Weave Residue Remover Shampoo

The wrong shampoo can compromise a good wig in an instant. I’m happy to report that unlike some shampoos I’ve tried on my wigs in this past, this one got my wig clean without leaving the hair feeling dry or brittle. It did wonders for getting rid of residue that built up in the lace from customizing it with makeup, glue and styling products from previous installs. Instead of massaging the wig with shampoo to get rid of build-up, I prefer to use the ‘bubble bath’ method, dunking the wig in a bath in the sink or bucket with diluted shampoo. This method does an amazing job of cleaning extensions without tangling them in the process.

SheaMoisture Wig Weave 2 in 1 Conditioner and Detangler for Human and Synthetic Hair I Tried Shea Moisture’s New Wig & Weave Line—Here Are My Honest Thoughts

Wig & Weave 2-in-1 Conditioner and Detangler

When I condition my wigs, I also use the bubble bath method and allow my wig to sit in the diluted conditioner for up to 30 minutes. I was reluctant to try this conditioner/detangler combo because it’s merely a spray, but the proof is in the pudding. This concoction effortlessly detangled my wig, especially on the lace, which is more prone to knots and breakage. After using it, my wig was soft and defined without a tangle in sight.

SheaMoisture Wig Weave Scalp Soother I Tried Shea Moisture’s New Wig & Weave Line—Here Are My Honest Thoughts

Wig & Weave Scalp Soother

I had a small area on my scalp that was itchy before my wig application. I applied a few drops of this oil onto my scalp, put on my wig, and tied it down with my scarf and it was already relieved. If you have an itchy scalp from time to time, this may be a good solution to soothe your scalp in a matter of minutes. On the other hand, if you suffer from a chronically dry or irritated scalp, you may want to seek expert advice as this may not be an appropriate long-term solution.

wig after washing I Tried Shea Moisture’s New Wig & Weave Line—Here Are My Honest Thoughts

 I Tried Shea Moisture’s New Wig & Weave Line—Here Are My Honest Thoughts

Wig & Weave Flyaway and Wrap Mousse

Mousse is another one of those products that I often give a side-eye. While I love the definition that a good hair mousse can offer, I’m always nervous that it will leave my hair feeling dry and crunchy. Though I somewhat felt my hair harden from the mousse, it combated flyaways, too. My recommendation is to apply the mousse while your hair is wet to avoid using too much product.

 I Tried Shea Moisture’s New Wig & Weave Line—Here Are My Honest Thoughts

Wig & Weave Oil Shine Spray

I’m usually skeptical of using oil-based products on my wigs, however, this shine spray may be an exception. It’s lightweight and doesn’t leave the hair weighed down. Instead, it adds a healthy shine. While it’s suggested to spray the product directly onto the hair, I prefer to spray it into my hands and gently massage it through my hair. This keeps you from applying too much by mistake.

 I Tried Shea Moisture’s New Wig & Weave Line—Here Are My Honest Thoughts

Wig & Weave Bonding Glue

The first thing that you’ll notice about this Bonding Glue is that it feels nothing like glue at all. It has a somewhat slimy texture like a defining hair gel without that tackiness you’d expect. The label suggests applying the adhesive in thin layers and blow-drying on cool between applications to make the glue tacky. This didn’t work well for me. Not only did the bond take forever to get sticky, but my wig didn’t stick at all. I gave it another shot, but this time I applied a thin layer of adhesive, put on my wig, and tied down my hair with a scarf. This helped my wig adhere. Though it’s not as strong as other adhesives I’ve used, it’s a good option for someone who plans to remove their wig by the end of the day.

SheaMoisture Wig Weave Bond Release Spray I Tried Shea Moisture’s New Wig & Weave Line—Here Are My Honest Thoughts

Wig & Weave Bond Release Spray

This alcohol-free spray got rid of the glue residue left on my wig, forehead and edges. I sprayed it onto a cotton pad and massaged where needed. In addition to removing the glue, it left my edges feeling incredibly soft.

STYLECASTER | Ashley Benson Interview

Read More

Channel VP Kamala Harris’ Iconic ‘I’m Speaking’ Energy With This New Lipstick

It feels like about 100 years ago that Vice President Kamala Harris sat down to debate then-VP Mike Pence but it was only in October. To say she won would be an understatement. (Plus, well, she ended up literally winning.) Her side-eyes and witty comebacks inspired a million memes. And now, lipstick brand SheSpoke launched a Kamala Harris lipstick inspired by the iconic moment she told Pence, “I’m speaking.” It was a quote heard around the world as millions of women remembered a time or two when a man interrupted them.

If you’re not familiar with SheSpoke, it’s a custom lipstick brand started by Stephanie March of “Law and Order: SVU” fame and her makeup artist on set, Rebecca Perkins. The “I’m Speaking” Limited Edition Collection, first reported on by Popsugar, is their newest launch not only inspired by Vice President Harris but also other female trailblazers including Stacey Abrams and the late Ruth Bader Ginsburg. The line features three creamy lipsticks and a sparkly clear topper. You can grab them all in a set or each separately to channel your inner badass.

As much as we’re loving these shades and the messaging, we’re hoping the brand donates some of the proceeds to an organization such as Abrams’ FairFight, which helped Democrats win big in Georgia and take back the Senate.

Our mission at STYLECASTER is to bring style to the people, and we only feature products we think you’ll love as much as we do. Please note that if you purchase something by clicking on a link within this story, we may receive a small commission of the sale.

shespoke im speaking bundle Channel VP Kamala Harris Iconic Im Speaking Energy With This New Lipstick

“I’m Speaking” Limited Edition Collection

Get Stacey (a shimmery plum-red), Kamala (a sheer warm tan), Ruth (a creamy pink-coral with sparkles) and I’m Speaking (a sparkly clear gloss).

stacey limited edition lipstick Channel VP Kamala Harris Iconic Im Speaking Energy With This New Lipstick

Stacey Limited Edition Lipstick

A plum-red with shimmer.

Screen Shot 2021 01 27 at 4.23.06 PM Channel VP Kamala Harris Iconic Im Speaking Energy With This New Lipstick

Kamala Limited Edition Lipstick

A sheer warm tan.

ruth limited edition lipstick Channel VP Kamala Harris Iconic Im Speaking Energy With This New Lipstick

Ruth Limited Edition Lipstick

A creamy pink-coral with sparkles.

gloss 20 7 high shine sparkly clear Channel VP Kamala Harris Iconic Im Speaking Energy With This New Lipstick

I’m Speaking High Shine Sparkly Clear Topper

A sparkly clear gloss.

STYLECASTER | Ashley Benson Interview

Read More