HAIR | Final Week Dove Colour Radiance Challenge and #giveaway

I've finished the Dove Colour Radiance Challenge. My personal favorite item from the range is the leave in conditioner, it's so light that you can use it to help refresh your hair in between washes, not to mention is has UV filters so protects from sun damage. The regular conditioner did the trick as well despite my early doubt. My personal experience with the shampoo is that it made my head itch, which is normal as I have to use 100% natural shampoo, but as this is low in sulphates it took 3 week or so before it started itching which is a miracle.

Anyway, the lovely people at Dove sent me some of the range out so that I can run a competition and give you guys the chance to try the range for yourself!

                         

a Rafflecopter giveaway ThePrizeFinder - UK Competitions

HAIR | Dove Radiance Challenge Week 3 Overview

Here are my five photos from week 3 of the Dove Radiance Challenge. My colour has only really started fading the last few days and I think it's only really noticeable to me. The lighter bits at the ends are definitely not as subtle now, but I quite like it. They are still less harsh than they were to began with.

My scalp is starting to take a dislike to the shampoo, this is common for me and to be honest I'm surprised it's taken so long to show a reaction! I'm really pleased with the condition my hair is in and how well the colour has lasted. On to the final week now!

Love Lilla xx

HAIR | Dove Radiance Challenge Week 2 Overview

OK so the top picture is my official Dove photo, you can see all the other girls on their Facebook page. I have to admit they are not the best pictures, the photographer made me over smile, but hey they would have been worse when I was bigger. As a result someone commented in Portuguese that I need to see a dentist! To be honest I was bullied about my teeth a lot at school so I'm kinda over it, it hasn't bothered me. In fact I was quite lucky as I only had two negative comments on my photos, I was really upset to see some of the awful comments on the other girls photos. Considering that the Dove brand is about real women I was very disappointed in the amount of women on women hate.  I think it is awful and pathetic that women can be so horrible and negative towards each other. We aren't models we are real women, even models aren't perfect, unless they are photoshopped. I guess the internet gives people the anonymity to say horrible things to people to make themselves feel better, but that doesn't make it right.

Anyway, about the products. When I start using shampoos that contain sulphate my scalp usually becomes a dry itchy mess, so I'm again very surprised that the Dove Radiance Shampoo* hasn't affected my scalp. Another common problem with these shampoos is that after 1 day my roots will be crazy greasy, but my hair is lasting up to 3 days which is a miracle! Conditioners are working really well, I alternate between the two and my hair is really soft. But my favorite product by fair though is the Leave In Conditioner! Its great to use to restyle my hair between washes, and because it is so light it doesn't make my hair greasy. My colour is holding well, although I am getting a major urge to make the tips more blonde as I want some crazy colour in my hair! So on to week 3!

Love Lilla xx

BEAUTY | Argan Oil - Whats the deal?

Argan oil, also known as Moroccan oil is an organic oil pressed from the seeds of fruit from Morrocco's Argan tree. Traditionally used as a cooking oil, in recent years it has been exported as a treatment for skin and hair problems such as acne, dry skin and damaged hair.

When I was doing #30daysnoheat, Argan oil seemed to be hailed as a magic cure for my damaged locks. Since completing the challenge and making a few changes (using a natural bristle brush, detergent free shampoo, heat protection spray, condition mask and using my straighteners less) my hair is in incredible condition. I don't have the problem, where my scalp would be dry, roots greasy and ends dry and frayed.
Taking all of this in to consideration, I thought it was about time I saw what all the fuss was about.

I tried two types of oil one for my hair and one for my skin (Argan oil is high in vitamin E, so I am hoping it will help improve the appearance of a scar i have on my forehead.).

The first one I tried was Rodin olio lusso Rodin by Recine Luxury Hair Oil. My main concern was that the oil would make my hair greasy so I applied a few drops to damp hair and then styled it. My hair was definitely softer and shinier. I also found that putting a few drops on to the ends of dry hair seems to bring it back to life! But be careful about how much you use, I rub it into my palms and then through my hair.

You can buy the Rodin by Recine Luxury Hair Oil on their website for $65.

For my skin I tested the Kahina-Giving Beauty's 100% Organic Kahina Argan Oil, which is described as being rich in Vitamin E and antioxidants. Again when using the oil on my skin I was worried about my skin appearing really greasy as a result, but the oil is absorbs very quickly and left my skin feeling smooth and soft. Not only did I notice my skin was more even than before, but I noticed that the spots that I sometimes get near my hairline have more or less vanished.

This product can also be used for your hair, but I found it was a tad heavy for my thin locks, my OH on the other hand found that it absorbed perfectly into his thicker mop.

This oil can be purchased from the above website and ranges in price from $36-$82 for 30ml-100ml or from Beauty Works West for £74.

The oil may seem expensive but it is well worth the investment and when you consider how little you will use each time the product will last for ages!

FOOD | New Year, new approach to dieting? Dieting FAQ

Whilst at university I lived with an amazing girl named Amy. We met at secure a home and were instantly drawn to each other because of our 'alternative style'. That night we got extremely drunk and about a month later we had moved into our first uni house.

The two of us had quite a lot in common, similar music taste, style, love of men with long hair and we were always in hysterics, almost to the point of passing out.  But the main thing we had in common was our unhealthy relationship with food. Not only did we eat unhealthy food, we ate loads of it and washed it down with high calorie alcohol.

It is common knowledge that people put on weight at university, but Amy and I weren't exactly small to start with. Neither of us felt as if we could ever actually be slim again.

So here we are at the start 2012 (uni started Sept. 2003) and my incredible friend Amy has lost over 89lbs which equates to over 6 stone in about a year.

Following her weight loss journey on Facebook has been amazing. Everyone has been asking her questions so Amy released an FAQ about how she went about losing all that weight, and i have decided to share it with you.

All this is down to my own experience, so maybe it won't work for everyone. I also had a LOT to lose.

 What made you start losing weight?

I was sick of the way it made me feel being very overweight, inferior to others, self-conscious all the time, literally taking up space. Also being tired a lot and starting to get aches and pains in my back, being very unfit, like a tub of useless lard no muscle tone etc, being detatched from my body. Also health concerns about the future such as starting a family, being a fat mum, fat bride.

What was your starting and end weight?

*Breathe* 17stone 4/110kgs/242lbs. After: 10stone 13/68.9kgs/153lbs

(I am still very ashamed of my start weight!)

How the hell did you get started?!

I started to eat what I thought was healthy (without counting calories at first), such as wholegrain only rice, pasta and bread. Chicken and fish, salads, smaller portions. I then started to exercise on my spinning bike for 15 mins 3 times a week, and also went for a walk daily. This caused me to lose 10kgs/22lbs/1stone8) fairly quickly. I started to slip back into old ways, and then had a health scare in March 2011 which made me get serious. I downloaded a calorie counter app and started to count calories, I believe I started at 1500 a day. Still no white carbs, etc.I started to work out on the bike 15-20 mins, 5 days a week, with walking still. The weight started to come off steadily. I got fitter and could go longer on the bike. I also tried some DVD'S, Jillian Micheals 30day shred (really difficult!) and pilates.

How do you keep motivated?

It differs for everyone of course, but the first thing I must stress is, you have to WANT this. Badly. Going at it half arsed will not get you far. Set your goals and work towards them. Take it one day at a time. If you mess up, accept it and move on, continue with your healthy lifestyle, don't just give in and start eating crap again because of one slip up. Read up on everything weight loss related whenever you can. Keep it on your mind.

What about all the sweets/chocolate junk food?

For me, it works to sometimes have a small (135 cals) chocolate bar. That was my main treat at first as I love chocolate! It depends on what kind of person you are. I find it easier not to have anything bad in the house. This is a lifestyle change. You must accept you cannot eat that shit regularly if you want to succeed. The good thing about calorie counting, is you can factor in a small amount of any 'bad' food if you really want to, but as time passes you probably won't want to. I allow myself one 'cheat' meal a week. Every Saturday night I have something I might have been craving, a small pizza, a light dinner and then a dessert, some chocolate or whatever. A lot of people believe this sudden intake of more calories can also kick your metabolism, I do tend to agree. But don't go mad and eat EVERYTHING you want. For me it was easier simply to not drink alcohol. I did drink on some occasions but not regularly. Yes, you do have to pass up on things at social occasions etc. It's very hard, but worth it.

What do you do now?

I have played about with the calories often and now eat approx 1350-1400 a day. I work out 30 mins on the bike or run 30 mins, 5-6 days a week and I use free weights and body weight exercises (plank, push ups, crunches,squats etc) 3-4 times week. I will lessen my cardio towards the end. I walk when I can and try and stay active. This has not been a ‘diet’, it has been a change of lifestyle, and I will have to continue to keep my weight in check for the rest of my life.

What is your end goal?

After reassessing, I plan to get down to 64-5 kilos,10stone4, 142lbs, meaning I have lost 100lbs. I also want to add more muscle and lose a little more fat.

How about loose skin/stretch marks/cellulite etc?

Stretch marks are less noticeable now, cellulite is pretty much all gone. I do have some loose stomach skin which I hope a further loss and weight training will help. Either way, it's better than being obese. Yes, my boobs have shrunk too.

So, what's the secret?

Nothing but hard work and determination, and willpower. This will not happen overnight. Keep working and working at it and you will get there.

There must be some tips? ;)

• Water, water, water. Drink a lot of it. It will keep you full and keep everything working. Plus dehydration can be mistaken for hunger.
• If you have a lot to lose especially, you will need to work out- hard. Cardio until you can go on no longer and you're sweating buckets. Add some weights in too.
• Learn what a proper portion size is, and track everything.
• Eat plenty of different fruit and vegetables.
• Eat good fat, salmon, olive oil etc
• Keep your protein up.
• Dark chocolate if you need a treat, or fun size items and promise yourself one.
• If you are eating out/drinking etc, plan ahead how much you will consume.
• Eat a good breakfast.
• Don't leave too long between meals.
• Allow yourself a little 'cheat' now and then.
• You get out what you put in, there is no magic wand.
• Work through plateaus, as frustrating as it is, they should pass.
• NO EXCUSES.

I forgot the add a bit about the psychological implications, which obviously are very important! This journey is not just about getting the weight off, it's about changing your relationship with food too. I think it also makes you delve into your past. I realised I was definitely an emotional/comfort eater, stemming from childhood. I also was always told to 'eat everything on my plate' which is a habit I still find hard to break! Also, there was always fairly large meals when I was a kid, so that stuffed to bursting feeling after eating was kind of a learned behaviour, I realised when I rarely felt it anymore, how ridiculous it is. Losing weight is tough on your mind too, when you have to abstain when everyone else is eating/drinking, when you have to cope with disappointment on the scales, guilt from eating something 'bad' etc, so it's not just a case of losing the weight, but readdressing things, and facing up to them. I always convinced myself I wasn't 'that fat', I could still make myself look quite nice, I was in denial. Getting on the scales, seeing that awful number, facing up to it and saying 'I can beat this!' and admitting I was eating too much at meals and too many sweets etc was the start of my journey :)

Lastly, some tools:

http://www.bmi-calculator.net/bmr-calculator/

you will need to work out your BMR, then create a calorie deficit.

http://www.mynetdiary.com/

The calorie counter I used!

HAIR | #30daysnoheat and beyond....

I finished my #30daysnoheat challenge on the 10th October. I know it is now the 17th but I have a lot to tell you! I was so used to not using heat on my hair that I actually carried on until the 13th without realising! Then the day after I washed my hair and as I was working from home just sprayed some leave-in condition in it and left it to dry (usually I load it with various products and give it a scrunch to help with the waves) and it was relatively straight and frizz free!


So what have I learnt from #30daysnoheat?

I actually prefer using Curlformers to curling irons.
Yes curling irons are more convenient in some situations, but I find the results aren't as good or long lasting. Where Curlformers curls will last me the whole night and are shiny bouncy curls, curling iron curls last a few hours and are a bit too loose, also the amount of hair spray I have to use to keep my curls for these few hours make the curls look dull and lifeless. I can also use Curlformers with my hair extensions without damaging them which means they last longer!
Also if you put them in the night before you go out or before you do you make up and spend 30 minutes trying on various outfits (during which I usually give my boyfriend a mini fashion show whilst he plays COD or what ever video game and pretends that he is interested) then they aren't that time consuming. Alternatively as I can now use heat I might try using a hood attachment to my blow dryer like Tanya Burr.

I don't need heat.
Yes that is right! Although I can use heat now, and I will, I don't not feel like I need to do it to all the time. I think I am going to be using my hair straighteners a lot less, I personally find that they make my hair a lot flatter than blow drying and I like the look of a good blow out!

A well suited hair cut is essential.
My hair is quite thin and frizzy, by giving myself some time dealing with my natural hair I have realised that the longer my hair is the more manageable it is I.E. straighter and frizz free. Therefore I am on a mission to grow out my layers!

Shampoo and condition properly.
When I first started this challenge, one of my major hair issues was that my roots would be greasy and my ends straw like, this has now changed! Not just because I haven't been sucking all the moisture out of my hair, but also because I have changed how I wash my hair! Firstly I now use a clarifying shampoo which has helped quite a lot (I am also going to try a sulphate free shampoo soon), I also only massage it into my scalp and just let the water take it through my tips, this means the shampoo doesn't strip away all the moisture from my hair. I only apply conditioner to my ends leaving it for a few minutes also once a week I apply a hair mask.


No Heat Survival Essentials Count Down

5. A Natural Bristle Brush

Made my hair a lot shinier and the ends less dry! Also a lot softer on my hair with tangles!





4. Gliss Liquid Silk Express Repair Leave-In Conditioner

This product is amazing, my hair is shiny and soft and you can apply to damp or dry hair so if my ends are looking a bit nasty I just give them a spray and brush (i have even caught my O/H using it too!)

3. Argan Oil For Face Body Hair Nails

Argon Oil is great for adding extra health to your hair! If you are using heat apply a little to the ends of damp hair before blow drying it or to dry hair if you are straightening it.

2.Elvive Hair Mask
Since Regan at Ruby Hair Designs recommended this product I have become obsessed. If I'm really treating my hair I will apply and then wrap my hair/head with cling-film and leave it for half an hour (you can leave it over night) before I wash it out. The cling film holds in the heat released from your head, this will help your hair take in more of the goodness!

1. Curlformers Long and Extra Wide
These have been my life saver! I have used them for every party I've needed to go to, or if I was going out with my friends. People even commented on how shiny and soft my hair looked. Some even said, I didn't know your hair was naturally like that! These have been fantastic. I also have the Long and Wide ones, but my little sister has kidnapped them and refuses to give them back because she 'neeeeeeds them' (imagine irritating child voice with sad eyes).

So there you have it! I never realised I was going to learn so much about my hair by doing this! I also thought it would be a lot harder to go without heat for 30 days and thought that by the end of it I would be gagging for my GHDs!

HAIR | Ruby Hair Design- Shiny Hair Tips #30daysnoheat

TOP TIPS FOR SHINY HAIR

My friend Regan is the brain child behind Ruby Hair Designs and has kindly written this guest blog for my #30daysnoheat blog to guide us to shiny hair!

It's not easy to get beautiful, strong, shiny hair in a world full peroxide and hair straighteners. Contrary to popular belief, you don't have to have untouched virgin hair to get brilliant shine. Here are my top tips for easy shine.

1 - Eat me, drink me

Yes, I know you've all heard it a thousand times but drinking plenty

of water and eating well really is the key to all hair and beauty tips! Your hair follicles (the base from which your hair grows) are deep in your skin and their health is governed by our diets and lifestyles. Think of it as a seed you need to nurture. A good balanced diet with the right fats and oily foods such as avocados and oily fish are great. Now go feed that seed!

2 - Cool is ... cool

This is surely the easiest tip in the world. After conditioning your hair rinse with cool water, this will help to close the cuticles on the hair shaft so that it becomes smooth. The hair cuticles are opened when it is coloured or heated and this is the most common cause for dull hair. Switch your hair dryer to its coolest setting to finish off your blow dry for a similar effect.

3 - Conditioner is key

It still amazes me that a lot of my first time clients don't

hardly condition their hair. While the shampoos job is to clean and cleanse away grease and dirt, the conditioner is there to replenish the hair. Don't forget to give the conditioner a chance to penetrate for 2 or 3 minutes and treat your hair to a good hair mask every few weeks. My favourite is L'Oreal Elvive full restore masque. Leave on for 15 minutes. Its a life changer!

4 - If you can't handle the heat...

Straightners and tongs pull out all of the moisture from your hair making it dry and brittle. Now is the time to get practising your blowdry, girls. If done properly it should last longer and give you heaps more shine. For frazzle free curls wrap freshly washed dry hair into foam or bendy rollers with a touch of hair spray, catch some ZZzzzzz's and in the morning hey presto! Not a tong in sight!

5 - Products are power

If you simply can't bare to tear yourself away from those GHD's then make sure you are using a good leave-in conditioner. Apply when your hair is damp to help it retain as much moisture as possible. Once dry a good heat protector spray is your new best friend. Last but not least use a shine serum or spray, Gliss by Schwarzkopf is a great finishing product. For a more intense shine try one of the serums from the wonderful Fantasia IC range. Careful not to over do it though, you don't want to overload your hair with products!

6 - Colour me beautiful

Using a semi permanent hair colour will give you amazing shine with no damage to you hair as it uses very little of the harmful products in more permanent colours. Try a semi with the same shade but a slightly different tone to your own hair. Reds are huge this season and will bring you a little warmth through the winter months.

For more tips on how to love your hair Ruby Hair Design

HAIR | Day 7 #30daysnoheat #curlformers and Fishtail plaits!

Here I am experimenting with different styles without heat. I have used natural clip in hair extensions, Extra-wide and Long Curlformers and Velcro rollers. I will post some pictures tomorrow :) I love the look of a fish tail plait!

HAIR | #30daysnoheat Curlformers results :)!

Here is the video of me taking the Curlformers out! I loved the curls I achieved. They also lasted ages so I've a picture of them that evening down below!

HAIR | #30daysnoheat Using Curlformers

Curlformers Short and Narrow at hair show

Here is the video of me putting in Curlformers. I found them very easy to put in and it was a lot quicker than I thought it would be!

HAIR | Day 1 #30daysnoheat Curlformers

Here is day one of 30 days of no heat. This is my first ever video blog so apologise for the ums and sos! /
You can tweet them here: @Curlformers or they have a Facebook page here.

Please fill free to leave suggestions in the comments or Tweet me @LillaJade

HAIR | Could you do #30daysnoheat?

I will start by explaining to you how badly I have abused my hair in the last 26 years.

Image:Dano 

My hair has been every colour of the rainbow... and more, which when you have dark hair means a lot of peroxide. I also have been blowdrying, straightening and curling my hair after every wash for most of my life. Consequently my hair resembles straw. The day after washing my hair the roots are greasy and my ends knotty and uncontrollable. My hair is thinning and lifeless.

I have got to the point in my life where I need to look after my hair otherwise in another 5 years I might not have any! As a response to the fear of being bald at 30 I came up with the idea of shunning heat styling for 30 days to give my hair a break. This will also give me the chance to explore different hair styles and techniques so I don't need to use heat as frequently in the future.

In the last month I have already made some changes to my hair care routine, firstly I now have a hair care routine, rather than lather rinse repeat.

Natural Bristle Brush

My first change was my hairbrush. I have gone natural, that is to say my brush has natural bristles, which  helps promote growth and shine. The natural bristles help distribute the natural oils from the roots to the tips. I also changed my shampoo to a clarifying shampoo to wash away any build up and then use moisturising conditioner. I then follow this up with an olive based hair oil on the ends.

As a result my hair last longer between washes and the ends of my hair no longer look like straw. My hair is better, but by no means healthy. I want shinny, glossy and stylish hair and hopefully #30daysnoheat will help.

So do you think you could go 30 days without your GHDs? why not join me?

Also if you have any hairstyles or tips that could help me get through these 30 days without compromising on style please either comment below or tweet me @LillaJade with #30daynoheat