The Natural Hair Products That Will Turn Your Curl Game Up A Notch

Published on August 30, 2020May 1, 2024 by Lee3 Comments

As Black women, we take our crowns seriously, no matter the style of the crown. Our natural hair is a means of showcasing the beauty of our roots. Whether you’re a 3A, 2B or 4C, your curls matter.

Being a naturalista is no easy feat. You have to be up to the minute on all of the latest natural hair products to ensure you’re giving your curls the love they deserve. Our curls comes in all different shapes, sizes and textures so we have to meet them where they are but not leave them there. With humidity coming for all the hard work we put into maintaining the perfect curl and avoiding frizz, we gotta stay ready so we don’t have to get ready.

Keep reading for some natural hair products that will have your curls screaming, “Yasssss!”

*This list is specially curated by the BeautyLeeBar team and some links are affiliate links. If you purchase an item from an affiliate link, BeautyLeeBar might earn a small commission.

Aveeno Oat Milk Blend Shampoo

Did you know that oat milk is great for soothing your scalp? Because it is rich in protein and lipids, it adds a smoothness and shine that your curls will thank you for. Depending on your scent preference, you may love or hate the fragrance but we guarantee you’ll love how your hair feels after a good shampoo. $7 Buy Now

Oyin Handmade Hair Natural Moisture Dew

Celebrated as the leave-in to believe in, this Oyin product will kick dryness in the ass. The castor oil and squalane provide hydration and moisture for your coils and kinks. $20 Buy Now

SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore Treatment Masque

SheaMoisture is an illustrious collection of products perfect for repairing damaged hair. If you’ve been using heat and/or coloring your hair more than you should, this Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore Treatment Masque will reduce shedding and allow your hair to grow free of harsh chemicals. $12 Buy Now

DevaCurl Deep Sea Repair Seaweed Strengthening Mask

DevaCurl created a treatment ideal for defining your curls while also improving elasticity. Try using this product once a week to power-pack your curls with the strength it needs for any style. Word on the street is that this DevaCurl option is a great option for transitioning curls. $51.20 Buy Now

KareCo Tangle Buster Brush

Your coils need a brush that is gentle and efficient. The Tangle Buster has your back from its flexible paddle to the easy glide bristles. Whether using it on wet or dry hair, you can flawlessly detangle your hair in one hour, giving you more time to style your hair. $10.96 Buy Now

SOULTANICALS Fluffalicious Nutricious

With a name like Fluff-a-licious, how can you go wrong? A little goes a long way as you style your bantu knots or twist out. You can depend on this product to keep your hair supple for days on end. Not to mention, the wheat germ oil and blue malva herb gives thick curly strands maximum nourishment. $16 Buy Now

Afro Sheen Crown Defining Curl Cream

Sometimes our curls need a little help – think of this curl defining cream as the curl support system. It lacks grease, is full of fatty acids and reduces split ends. When lathering the cream, you are sure to notice an instant softness. $21 Buy Now

R+Co Cassette Curl Shampoo

Everyone hates frizz so, when we find a product that tames frizz, we are sold. Between the flaxseed and rice oil, you’ll want to treat this product like your favorite album that you can play and walk away. It will strengthen your hair from the follicle to the ends. $29 Buy Now

Ask Lee: How To Know If You’re Ready for the Chop

Published on October 15, 2018December 5, 2019 by Lee2 Comments

As all of you know, I keep shaving off my hair. It was my first real haircut in years, so it was a big change. But I’ve got to say, I’m loving my short haircut so far! I’ve received a lot of compliments on my hair from followers, family members, and strangers. There have been a few messages on my Instagram asking me why I did it and how I felt before and after the chop. Today I wanted to address those questions in my latest Ask Lee post. Here are the things to consider before getting a major haircut…

Is everything else in your life stable?

I understand the instinct to chop your hair off right after a breakup or other major life change. But as nice as it is to start fresh, you’re also more likely to make a rash decision you’ll regret. So if you’re considering making a big change to your look, try to do it when everything else in your life is status quo.

To some, it might seem I woke up one morning and just shaved off my head but, in reality, I thought about it for a least 2 weeks. Sometimes I do things without thinking and with my hair, I put a lot of thought into it. If you know me, you know growing up I hated getting trims. Always felt like they cut off too much. It was never a good time until now. I still don’t trust anyone with my hair but my aunt Jillie who went to cosmetology school and her specialty was haircuts shaved my head for me. After looking into my mirror, I knew I made the best decision for me.

Can you take it slow?

When I told my hairstylist Jillie that I wanted a shave, she kept asking me am I sure. The reasons I wanted to shave off my hair was because I had dead ends and because I wanted to be free.

But I would suggest you cut a little bit off first and get used to playing with your new texture and length before really going for it. It will make the transition a lot easier and also gives you a chance to change your mind.

Are you prepared for high maintenance?

It’s a big misconception that shorter hair is easier to care for. Yes, you might save a little time shampooing. But it takes more time to style shorter hair, and you will also have to get more frequent trims (every 4-6 weeks) to maintain your shortcut. I now wear wigs whenever I just want to switch it up or don’t feel like dealing with my short hair.

But I will say, I’ve been using Curls, Elasta QP and Orshaircare for months now, maybe even for a year and my short hair has been easier to handle and to take care of especially when my hair is under those wigs. I now shave my own hair with Wahl Corded Color Pro Color Kit. The kit has everything I need and more, I feel like a real barber.

If you answered yes to all three questions, then you are ready for a short haircut!

I know it seems silly to put so much thought into getting a haircut, but as anyone who has ever had a bad haircut knows, it’s best to really be sure about these things! Plus, if you anything like me, then you will want to make sure you have the best barber and tools for your hair. Also, make sure you in the right frame of mind to make this type of big decision that can change your life forever.

Are you considering cutting your hair?

I hope my advice helped!

XO Lee

Gift Guide: For the Beauty Buff

Published on August 6, 2018May 1, 2024 by LeeLeave a comment

Let’s face it, we all have a self-proclaimed beauty buff on our friend list. You know, the one that’s a VIB member at Sephora or at Ulta Beauty, can name all the eyeshadow palettes that dropped this year, and can recommend the best moisturizer before you can even say the word. It can be difficult to shop for someone who’s makeup bag is already filled to the brim, which brings me to today’s post. I have compile a list of gift ideas for the beauty fanatic in your life. From top-rated face masks, to beauty blenders and makeup organizers, this list will make holiday/celebration shopping a breeze. The best part of it all? Everything in this gift guide is under $100! Keep scrolling to do a little holiday shopping for your favorite beauty obsessed babe…

1. Glossier Balm Dotcom Trio, $30
One of my favorite cult beauty brands has to be Glossier. This Balm Dotcom trio is the perfect gift for the girl who’s always reaching for a moisturizing lip balm. Plus they smell and look amazing!

2. Caboodles Le Sophistique 10pc Bag Set Black & White Stripe, $29.99
Every beauty babe needs a trusty cosmetic case. You can head over to target and see what affordable choices they have to offer. They have many popular name brand cosmetic bags, so you won’t be disappointed.

3. Sorbus Cosmetic Makeup and Jewelry Storage Case Display – Spacious Design (4 Large – 2 Small Drawers), $33.99
This sturdy, clear acrylic makeup organizer set includes four drawers on the bottom unit and two top drawers are great for holding smaller items. The 16 slots on the top portion let you place a variety of items like makeup brushes, lipsticks and more, making this display a must-have on your vanity. Talk about a chic and functional way to keep your sink nice and organized!

4. BRWNGRLMGC Set, $44
These classic elegant hues are mani/pedi worthy if you ask me. If you have a gal in your life that nails the at-home mani, this is the gift that keeps on giving.

5. The Little Market Lavender Spa Gift Box, $76
Give the gift of rest and relaxation with this luxurious lavender gift set for any celebration. This box has their incredible Bath Bomb, Lavender & Honey Soap, Soaking Salt and Candle, all in a yummy lavender scent. Treat the beauty buff in your life while giving back to female artisans at the same time.

6. Philosophy 4-step hydrate & glow set, $34
This next gift is a beauty must. I’m kinda obsessed with everything that Philosophy has to offer, and this gift kit is the perfect way to introduce your loved ones to some of the best skincare.

7. Moon Juice Moon Dust Sachet Sampler Box, $35
Have your beauty buff feeling beautiful from the inside out with this blend of Moon Dust sachets. Add them to your favorite beverage to help combat the effects of stress to nourish body, beauty and consciousness from the inside out.

Bigelow Benefits, $19.95
All of us know how important it is to put good things in our bodies to help us stay strong. That desire was the inspiration for the Bigelow Benefits line, everyday teas that fuel your body with good for you ingredients. And of course, the flavor is everything! The Bigelow family designed this tea collection to taste fabulous and help support your well-being. They Benefits teas can be used as part of your everyday routine and can help you define the life you want to live! This boxed set of six includes 18 tea bags each of Cinnamon Blackberry Herbal Tea, Lemon & Echinacea Herbal Tea, Turmeric, Chili Matcha Green Tea, Chamomile & Lavender Herbal Tea, Ginger & Peach Herbal Tea and Blueberry & Aloe Herbal Tea …108 Tea bags in all.

8. Taking Care Of Your Hair Under There Kit, $45
Have you heard? CURLS came out with these ultra-chic gift boxes with the best CURListas haircare line has to offer. Now you can have the freedom to rock your protective styles fearlessly. Take care of your “hair under there” before, after and throughout the duration of your protective style, using CURLS Blueberry Bliss Curl Collection! Enriched with certified organic blueberry extract to PURIFY – PROTECT, PRESERVE & GROW your hair while rocking your braids, wigs, clip ins or extension styles.

9. White with Style Sparkle White Professional Home Teeth Whitening Kit, $~~269.99~~
On the go? Use White with Style Teeth Whitening kits to get your teeth whiter than a pearl. Use code: CRYSTALEE to get Sparkle White Professional Home Teeth Whitening Kit for ONLY $28. Click here for more info!

10. MyMakeupBrushSet 10 Piece Black and Gold Oval Brush Set, $34.99
Last but not least, I have the Black and Gold Oval Brush Set for all of the makeup lovers out there. Blend that makeup look into perfection with the beauty world’s favorite tool.

BH Cosmetics Crystal Quartz – 12 Piece Brush Set, $15.60
Enchant your beauty routine with our Crystal Quartz 12 Piece Brush Set, a collection of top-quality face and eye brushes. The set comes in an ethereal, iridescent zip-top case for convenient storage and travel.

Do you have any gift ideas for the beauty buff in your life?

Let me know your suggestions in the comments!

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Published on December 3, 2017June 24, 2018 by LeeLeave a comment

8 Tips on how to be beautiful without makeup

Many of us can’t even imagine our life without makeup. Today’s topic might sound strange and even scary for many girls, thanks to media popularization of unrealistic beauty standards. To be beautiful without makeup?! Is it even possible?!

It became our daily ritual to wake up early and put on our “beautiful” makeup mask.
For many of us it would be a big nonsense even to go to a supermarket with no makeup on. Media often forces us to believe that a woman with no makeup on can’t actually look somewhat attractive or beautiful.

In this article, I don’t suggest that you completely let go and forget about taking care of yourself; on the contrary, if you want to live a makeup-free life, or at least be able to have makeup-free days, then it makes sense to put a little bit more effort into caring about the natural beauty of your face, hair and body.

1) Feel beautiful (even without makeup)
Yes, first step to natural, makeup-free beauty is connected with your inner perception of yourself – your self-image. How do you feel about yourself inside? It all depends on you. Try to feel beautiful. Yes. Right now, in this very moment… Know that you are pretty!

If a girl considers herself beautiful and is able to accept herself totally and unconditionally, then the whole world will feel the same about her. Yes, it’s that simple!

But if you don’t feel comfortable and confident about yourself with no makeup on, try to adapt the new ‘natural’ image gradually. For example, while on vacation, give your face a “vacation” as well, by using a minimal amount of cosmetics; use only mascara and a touch of lip gloss.

2) Your skin is your everything!
If you decide to live a makeup-free life, it doesn’t mean that you need to completely let go of all skin care products. Nobody abolished daily cleansing and moisturizer; these are necessary ingredients to the beauty and health of our skin.

If you used to deal with pimples by covering them up with tones of makeup – now, your main concern is the health and beauty of your skin.

Many skin problems are actually related to the excessive use of makeup; skin tone becomes uneven because of the reaction of your body on a foundation, concealer or blush. If you stop using foundation (at least for a while), after some time, you’ll notice that your skin tone will improve and there will be no need of that thick makeup mask any more. If skin problems persist, get a professional advice from a dermatologist; it’s better to treat the problem straight away, than to put it on hold into a waiting box.

Some other tips for the beauty of your skin include: use facial masks 2 or 3 times a week (choose masks according to your skin type), and exfoliate your skin regularly (we are not only talking about exfoliating your facial skin, but also exfoliate your whole body.)
Here is one of my favorite skin care tips: splash your face with cold water in the morning and in the evening for about 10 seconds. This helps to tone your skin naturally and will also help close pores.

3) Your beautiful natural eyebrows
Usually, when we apply makeup, we often try to change the proportions of our face and adapt it to world’s beauty standards, so that sometimes, we even forget how pretty and unique we look naturally.
If you want to minimize your daily makeup routine, then try to emphasize your natural features. Let’s start with your beautiful eyebrows. Look in the mirror and notice natural shape of your eyebrows, if you over-plucked them, then try to grow them back (apply natural oils on your eyebrows every evening; use castor oil, olive oil, coconut oil or burdock root oil) and then, shape your brows once and for all with the help of a professional, or with the help of YouTube. 🙂 If your eyebrows are too light and you usually draw them with a pencil, try a semi-permanent brow coloration in a salon instead. This will look more natural, so that your makeup-free face with well defined and beautiful eyebrows will instantly look more attractive.
Here is another tip on how to make your natural eyebrows grow: apply Jamaican Black Castor Oil (will help your eyelash and eyebrows to grow thicker and longer, and keep from breaking. It also helps promote new growth in bare areas caused by over-tweezing.) or Almond Oil on the brows every evening before going to sleep; do it for one or two months and see wonderful results! ( However, the growth period might vary based on the health and age of each individual.) Messaging your eyebrows with warm olive oil for 5 minutes before bed can also help. Just make sure you rinse it off with warm water the next morning. Try to avoid any temptation to pluck and exfoliate the eyebrow area daily to help stimulate hair growth.

4) Be transparent
When we are talking about beauty without makeup, it doesn’t mean that we should completely ignore all the beauty industry and forget about all cosmetic products. There are some great products on the market that can help you emphasize your natural beauty, such as eyebrow gels and transparent mascaras for your eyelashes, chap sticks, lip balms and lip glosses with no or a little bit of color; these nourish your lips and make you look fresh, natural and beautiful. Here is another beauty tip: I use The Queen Pegasus to help grow my eyelashes full and thicker. I also brush my eyelashes every day and every night to prevent clumps. Did you know that Vaseline helps grow eyelashes longer, thicker, and stronger It also claims that moisturizing around the eyelid will help the skin stay smooth and supple. The best way to get results from this is to use a cleaned mascara wand to apply the Vaseline to your eyelashes before bed.

5) Healthy eating and water
Good food is important not only for the beauty of our skin, but also for the overall health of our body. We are what we eat, therefore healthy and balanced diet should be our faithful, lifelong friend.
Make sure you eat fresh fruits and vegetables every day, as well as healthy fats and proteins; these are so important for our beauty. And, of course, our best friend is water! Try to drink about 8 glasses of water a day and also treat yourself with a green or white tea from time to time, because these are rich in antioxidants and will help your skin look fresh and young for a very long time, even without makeup.

Shhh… Come here I’m not the healthiest eater but when I make rice, I put vegetables into the rice and it will be mixed in so there is no way around it. Also, I love to fill up my Brita Pitcher with water then add slices of lemon to it. Lemon promotes hydration, it’s a good source of vitamin c, it improves your skin quality, it supports weight loss, it aids digestion, it freshens breath and it helps prevent kidney stones. I sometimes like to suck on limes. The health benefits of lime include weight loss, improved digestion, reduced respiratory and urinary disorders, relief from constipation, and treatment of scurvy, piles, peptic ulcer, gout, and gums. It also aids in skin care and eye care.

6) Kissable Lips
Here is a very simple tip on how to make your lips kissable and soft: gently massage your lips every evening (or every other evening) with your toothbrush for a couple of minutes (or use a ‘sugar+honey’ scrub instead); then rinse and apply Shea butter/pure coconut oil(your natural moisturizer) on your lips. Now, feel how tender, soft and kissable your lips feel; your prince charming won’t be able to stop kissing you!

SHOP:

7) Smile and love yourself
Smile will instantly help you to feel and look pretty, even if you don’t have any makeup on!

As Audrey Hepburn once said: “Happy girls are the prettiest!” Smile every time you look in the mirror, smile to people you see on the street and, in general, let smile be your favorite accessory – you will see how the whole world will start smiling back at you!

Love yourself. Accept yourself fully and completely. Love the way you look with or without makeup, because you are truly unique and beautiful! Remember it!

8) What about your hair?

If you want to look pretty with no makeup on – it’s important to take good care of your hair and keep your hair color close to natural.

If you use certain “extreme” hair colors, such as blue, pink or green, it can emphasise all little “imperfections” on your face and draw attention to them.

Try to keep your hair in great condition by using right hair care products that are suitable for your hair type, and do hair masks and oil treatments regularly. Nothing can be more beautiful than silky and shiny locks!

Hair Tip: Try Curls – Organic Hair Products