Hair Care Products | What I Currently Use And Avoid

Tweet

Because I love experimenting and styling my hair, I always get questions on how I take care of it: what products do I use to prevent/cure damage, what products do I avoid, etc. 

Before continuing with this post, please bear in mind that I'm not a professional about this topic. I'm basing this post in my personal experience as a beauty enthusiast, so this post is just for the sake of sharing what works for me in the hopes that it will work for you too. :)

This post is long overdue, but I just wanted to test out the products at least for a month or so before vouching for them. So here it is! :)

After almost 2 years of dyeing my hair blonde, it really took a toll on my hair's health. So when I finally mustered up the courage to have it darkened, I also made a commitment to care for it religiously.

I did my research and found out which products (or ingredients) I should avoid when buying hair products.

Going Sulfate-Free

I chose to buy hair shampoo and conditioner that are sulfate-free. Sulfates can strip off the moisture from your hair, making it dull and dry. It can also lead to hair loss and scalp irritation. For color-treated hair, using sulfate-free products is a must to keep the color in tact longer.

 L'Oreal's Ever Pure Sulfate-free Shampoo and Conditioner

I'm currently using (and loving!!!) L'Oreal's Ever Pure Sulfate-free Shampoo and Conditioner for color-treated hair. I love the scent and the minty cool feeling it leaves on my scalp. The shampoo by itself is already moisturizing, but I still use the conditioner for some extra TLC for my hair.

L'Oreal Ever Sleek Sulfate-Free and Silicone-Free shampoo and Conditioner

I also use L'Oreal Ever Sleek Sulfate-Free and Silicone-Free shampoo and Conditioner for straightened/rebonded hair (alternating with the one for color-treated hair). I have yet to try the variant for overprocessed hair. So far, I love the ones for color-treated hair better. :)

Snoe Hair Heroes Intense Argan Oil and Snoe Hair Heroes Extreme

Whenever I feel like indulging my hair, I use Snoe Hair Heroes Intense Argan Oil or Snoe Hair Heroes Extreme (which has emu and acai). They're both sulfate-free so yey!!! I love the latter better because it's not too potent, so it doesn't weigh my hair down even when I apply some on my scalp.

Silicones?

In one of my posts on Instagram (@ayzeecasimiro), I said silicones are bad for our hair, especially to color-treated hair. Let me just expound on that.

What I meant was, silicones that are NOT water soluble can cause damage in the long run. How? When our hair is coated with silicone from our hair products, our hair will obviously be very behaved: shiny, smooth, tangle-free. It will be a dream! But what happens in the long run? When silicones accumulate in our hair, it will create a thick coating that will prevent (or at least affect) future hair treatments to work fully and properly. 

Honestly, I can't avoid products with silicone since most (if not all) products for color-treated hair has at least one type of silicone. What do I do to minimize the damage it could cause? I use a cleansing/clarifying shampoo every 2 weeks.

Snoe Hair Heros Drunken Master Creme Wash

I recommend Snoe Hair Heros Drunken Master Creme Wash. I don't use it regularly because it doesn't say "zero sulfates". Personally, I'd rather avoid sulfates than silicone. But that's just me.

Schwarzkopf Bona Cure Hair Therapy Color Freeze Treatment

Once a month, I use Schwarzkopf Bona Cure Hair Therapy Color Freeze Treatment. I bought this at FnH Famous Salon. The assistant stylist (I forgot her name. huhu!) recommended it to me so that I can just do it at home, and save money. It costs 1,200+, which is just around the price of the hair treatment I got that day. She said the tub should last at least 4-5 months for my hair. I've use it thrice already, and I love it! It's not the most "softening" treatment, but it sure does make my color look vibrant!

Kerastase Chroma Thermique Leave-in Treatment or Osmo Berber Oil with Argan Oil

I also apply Kerastase Chroma Thermique Leave-in Treatment or Osmo Berber Oil with Argan Oil religiously when my hair is about 80% dry to keep my hair soft and frizz-free. I also read somewhere that I should use a detangler before I comb my freshly bathed hair, but so far I think I can get away without it. :)

So that's my new new hair care routine. Did you do something different to your hair? Planning to do something new with your hair? I would love to know! :)

By the way, if you want a more in-depth review of any of the products mentioned above, just let me know by leaving a comment here or by messaging me via my Facebook Page (hopefully you're already a fan. Hihi!) You can also just tweet me. ;)

My next hair post is about the styling products that I'm currently using. Please watch out for that. :)

Proactiv Skin Care Advisors | Ms. Jean Tamayo of TriNoma Branch

Tweet

As a self-confessed shopaholic, I've encountered all types or at least most types of sales people. 

The annoyingly clingy who won't give you your space as a shopper, the one who will "hard sell" everything even when you already know what you want/need, the one who doesn't give a fudge because he/she is too tired or preoccupied with something else, the flirt who'll shower you with compliments and sometimes ask for your name and/or number and the perfect one; the one who'll answer all your questions with sincerity, wouldn't push you in buying anything and would make you want to come back because you trust him/her.

The latter one is very hard to come by. I always try to commend sales people like that because I think they're such gems that their employers should take good care of them.

Last January of this year, Proactiv launched the Proactiv Skin Care Advisor Program. What that means is that their Skin Care Advisors at selected Watson's counters and Proaciv kiosks should be able to handle queries about the products proficiently, accommodate customers even those who aren't necessarily buying anything, with the hopes of possibly go back because of the rapport they've built with the customer. That's a tough job to do especially when you're selling skincare products that are a bit expensive. 

I went to their TriNoma branch a few nights back. I just came off from work and decided to have a consultation around that time. Why? I notice that that's a critical time for people in the service industry. That's the time wherein most of them are already tired and exhausted. Some are even no longer accommodating during those hour. I think that's the perfect scenario to see how they'll take care of their customers. :)



I was able to consult with Ms. Jean Tamayo. I also intentionally wore a casual outfit because I notice I get special treatments whenever I'm in my usual corporate attire. (When people think you're a boss, they're extra nice to you. LOL) I casually passed by the counter, walking slowly. I approached the counter, and Ms. Jean greeted me with a smile. I asked a few questions, specifically about my acne scars. I tend to have cystic acne on my jawline, which always leave a nasty pigment.

Knowing Proactiv doesn't have an "acne scar treatment", I thought she'll pitch a product that I know wouldn't work. Surprisingly, she didn't. But she did mention that the toner in the complete kit would help in lightening the spots but that won't totally remove it. Honesty? Passed!

She also suggested their refining mask, for my cystic acne problems. She taught me how to use it in 2 ways: on my face for a few minutes or leave it overnight on the pimple itself. Proactive-ness? Passed!

I also asked her what she could recommend to my sister who gets body acne every now and then. She said my sister can use their deep cleansing wash. It can be used for both face and body. It will last a long time so it's definitely worth every Peso. Proficiency? Passed!

But what is the most important factor for me? Even though she can tell that I won't be buying right at that moment, she still took her time to explain everything to me. She didn't even "sell" anything to me! She just answered my questions and made suggestions on my problems. THAT'S A BIG DEAL. I really don't like the feeling of being "persuaded" or "enforced" to buy something. It seems a little too manipulative for me, so I really appreciate her just being a good listener and gave suggestions that could work. I like the feeling of being valued without having to buy anything. I think that's what the sales industry is doing wrong nowadays: most of them are only nice when they know or think the customer will shell out money.

So what is my verdict to Ms. Jean Tamayo?

5 out of 5!

I actually already know some of the stuff she discussed, especially about the products since I've reviewed them already, which is good because I know she didn't hype anything. She was very accommodating, sincere and made me feel like we're friends. She's someone you'd want to talk to because you'll know she just wants to help you out.

If you're in the area and need help with acne, swing by Proactiv Kiosk at TriNoma. It's in front of Reebok. :)

Vikings SM Megamall Opens on March 2014

Tweet

Great news to my fellow foodies who are always in the Ortigas area!

Vikings, the largest buffet restaurant in the Philippines, is coming to SM Megamall this March 2014!

As a special treat to all their fans, Vikings SM Megamall will offer a 20% discount on their opening week!

1) Guests will receive 20% discount on his/her individual bill if he/she "Likes" their official Vikings SM Megamall Facebook page.

2) The "fan" may only avail this discount once during the promo period.

3) The "fan" will be asked to prove that he/she has "Like"d our page through their own smartphone or through an iPad available at Vikings.

4) This promo can't be used in conjunction with other in-house promotions or discounts.

5) This promo period is available only on the week of opening* (TO BE ANNOUNCED).

6) This promo is only valid at Vikings SM Megamall.

For news and updates, Like and Follow them!

Vikings SM Megamall

4th Level, Mega Fashion Hall

Facebook: Vikings SM Megamall

Twitter: @vikingsbuffet

Instagram: @vikingsluxurybuffet

Network for Enterprising Women (NEW) - 7th Annual Women Entrepreneurs Conference

Tweet

Living up to the organization's mission, the Network for Enterprising Women(NEW) in cooperation with RCBC is organizing the 7th Annual Women Entrepreneurs Conference from 8:00am to 12:30pm on March 15, 2014 (Saturday) at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel, Makati Avenue, Makati City.  

The Conference will include topics on Ins and Outs of Franchising, Digital Marketing and Women Empowerment through Entrepreneurship. Our last six conferences had over 200 participants to include women from top corporations, entrepreneurs of small and medium sized businesses, teachers, students and graduates of entrepreneurship courses, officers, and middle managers of government agencies and local government units, overseas Filipino workers and their families and also gender advocates in NGO’s and government.  We also expect men from the private and public sectors to attend this program. 

This conference aims to be a venue for facilitating opportunities for trade and development between existing and aspiring entrepreneurs, business oriented organizations and the potential market. Through this project, NEW, hopes to promote the values of social responsibility, youth collaboration and leadership.

Participant Fee (inclusive of breakfast):

1) Early bird rate if paid on or before February 28, 2014: Php 1,000

2) Regular Rate / Walk-in Rate :  Php 1,500

3) NEW members:  Php 1,000

4) Special Student rate:  Php 700

Each participant will also be given a  FREE GIFT PACK from our sponsors. 

Payments can be made through Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) under Network for Enterprising Women, Manila Assn, Inc., Checking Account # 4481-0051-46. Please bring your deposit slips on the day of the event for re-validation.

If you want to become a member of NEW, you can apply on this day. 

We have an annual membership fee of Php 2500.  

For inquiries and reservations, please call 908-2558 / 0917-5408697 or email info@new.com.ph.  

To register online, log on to www.facebook.com/networkforenterprisingwomen.

SM City Sta. Mesa 3-Day SALE - Feb 14, 15 and 16

Tweet

February is no longer reserved just for celebrating Valentine's Day. 

This year, February 14 also marks the first day of SM City Sta. Mesa's 3-Day SALE!

It's actually a triple celebration for a lot of us: Valentine's weekend, 3-Day SALE and Payday weekend! So come on over at SM City Sta. Mesa and enjoy huge discounts on your favorite brands!

Don't forget to bring your SM Advantage Card and SM Eco bags as well! See you there!

Proactiv Solution - Win Patron Tickets to Avril Lavigne’s Concert on February 17

Tweet

White tank top, necktie, low-rise oversized pants, chains and I think gloves; these were what Avril Lavigne wore when she debuted in the music scene more than a decade ago.

I distinctly remember her because she was the "odd" female pop star back then. She was dubbed as the "rock princess" but for me she's more of a pop rock princess. While Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera was battling it out, Avril did her own thing. That's probably the reason why she earned a good following: she was the breath of fresh air among all the blonde bombshells in the music scene.

My favorite song from her was "Why". It felt the most personal and genuine for me. Also, that song really showcased her vocal talent the best (at least for me). She released several albums since then, but her first album would still be my favorite. Her music never really matured, and she celebrates that fact..

But what do I like most about her? It seems like the girl never aged. AT ALL. She actually gets prettier and prettier through the years, and her skin looks just as good (or even better!) compared to 10 years ago. What could be her secret? ;)

She did a concert several years back. I heard it was pretty good, so I'm actually looking forward to seeing her next concert. Speaking of her next concert, she is having her next concert in Manila this February! BETTER news? Proactiv is giving away Patron tickets to her concert!

“Buy Proactiv Kit Now and Get a chance to Win Patron Tickets to Avril Lavigne’s Concert!” 

per DOH–FDA CDRR Promo Permit No. 221 series of 2013.

source: http://bit.ly/1bcnEwF

Who can join this raffle?

All customers who purchase Proactiv 30 day or 60 day kits from participating outlets from Sept December 5, 2013 to February 4, 2014 will get a chance to join the electronic raffle to Win Patron Tickets to Avril Lavigne’s Concert on February 17, 2014 in Smart Araneta Coliseum. 

Participating Outlets:

1.     Proactiv Online Shopping Site: http://my.proactiv.com.ph

2.     Proactiv Door-to-Door Delivery Phone Hotlines: (729-2222, 1-800-8-729-8888, 1-800-10-889-4444, 0917-801-8888)

3.     Proactiv Mall Kiosks:

a.     Trinoma, 2nd Floor (Telephone: 380-3801)

b.     Glorietta, Ground Floor (Telephone 388-2848)

c.     Marquee Mall, Ground Floor (Telephone: 0935-8341523)

What are the prizes?

One (1) Grand Prize Winner of 2 Patron Tickets worth Php 5, 885 each

One (1) Winner of 2 Lower Box B Tickets worth Php4,825each                

Three (3) Winners of 2 Upper Box B Tickets worth Php1,645 each 

Just so you know: The prizes are directly purchased from Ticketnet, official ticketing agent of the event. Proactiv Solution is not a sponsor of the said event and is not endorsing the event. Concert organizers are not connected to Proactiv Solution.

The raffle date is on February 6, 2014. Winners will be contacted directly with instructions on how to claim the prize

How to Join?

1.         Buy a Proactiv Solution 30-day kit (Php 2,495) or 60-day (Php 3,995) kit from any of the participating outlets within promo period. Purchase of 30-day kit is equivalent to 1 raffle entry, while purchase of 60-day kit is equivalent to 2 raffle entries.

2.         For customers ordering from my.proactiv.com.ph, there is no special instruction or forms to be filled out. The system automatically tags eligible customers and the Account Name will be used as official entry. The promo can be viewed at: http://my.proactiv.com.ph/win-patron-tickets-avril-lavigne-concert.htm#.UrJKN9IW1EI

3.         For customers ordering via phone hotlines, our Customer Service Representatives shall automatically tag all eligible customers and your Account Name in our database will be used as official entry.

4.         For customers ordering from Proactiv Mall Kiosks our friendly Sales Personnel will assist you and help you fill-out Official Raffle Entry Forms available on site.

Terms and Conditions:

1.         Purchases outside the promo period or from non-participating outlets are not eligible to join the raffle.

2.         If a customer avails of the Proactiv Money back Guarantee that comes with every Proactiv 30-day or 60-day kit, this forfeits the subsequent activation of the raffle entry. If the customer won and subsequently availed of the Money Back Guarantee after claiming the prize, the actual cost of ticket will be deducted to the refund value.

So what are you waiting for? Buy a Proactiv Solution 30-day kit or 60-day kit from any of the participating outlets mentioned above until February 4, 2014! Enjoy an acne-free skin AND get a chance to watch Avril Lavigne's concert! 

New Year, New Hair | From Blonde to Blue Violet

Tweet

Hi sweethearts!
(I must come up with a name I can call my dear readers. Chilipinees? Hahaha! Leave your suggestion on the comment box, pretty please.)

If you've been following me on Instagram (@ayzeecasimiro), you'd know how much I can obsess about my hair. 

I've been dying it blonde for almost 2 years and I really loved it. But sadly, my hair didn't. Due to the regular exposure to bleach, styling tools and wrong products, my long hair became extremely dry and frizzy. I also noticed how blonde hair (without the proper hair products) can become brassy over time. I knew I had to do something about it, so I went to my neighbor and had it darkened. I chose "blue violet".

From Goldilocks to Ultra Violet. ;p

Depending on the lighting, it comes off as red, burgundy or violet. It was a drastic change for me, and I thought I couldn't pull it off. I wanted a professional to do my haircut, so I went to Folded n Hung Famous Salon at Glorietta 5. My stylist was Brian. I asked him to keep the length as long as possible, and that I wanted bangs. He said he'll give me layers and a side-swept "C" bangs. He'll give me a beautiful haircut that'll make me look younger, he said. (I'm only 27! Hahaha!) But in fairness to the man, he really did a good job with my hair. I rarely get bad hair days since the haircut, and I don'g even have to style it daily. All I do is dry my hair with a fan, and when it's about 80% dry, I twist it up in a bun then I'm off to work. When I reach the office, I let my hair down in all it's sexy and glorious waves. (Hahaha! Indulge me, please.)

styled with curling iron

styled with curling iron

My hair without using any styling tools. :)
(not my angle. siopao face ftw! hahaha!)

By the way, I availed their Total Repair Treatment for colored hair (Php1400 for my hair). They didn't charge me for the haircut since I had a hair treatment. ;) I will definitely go back for my regular trims and treatment. I love the place, the people and the prices! #HappyToBeFamous



Want to know what products I use (and AVOID) to keep my hair healthy and hair color in tact? My next post is going to be about that! It'll be up soon, I promise. :)