Taking care of natural hair is a task that requires dedication, attention, and money. I can’t even begin to tell you how many products I have owned or how much money I’ve gone through by constantly trying new products. If you’ve ever stepped foot in a beauty supply store (or any hair care aisle) you know how tempting and overwhelming the vast array of selection can be. Here are a few of my current go to products next time you’re looking to keep your curls on point without breaking the bank!
Product 1: Camille Rose Deep Algae Renew Conditioner ($20) I came across this product in my mom’s bathroom and decided to give it a try. Out of all Camille Rose products I have tried, this is not one of my favorites. The consistency of this product is sort of thick and pasty making it hard to distribute evenly. After using this product, I always feel as though it’s still in my hair, giving it a heavy feel. I had hopes that this product would make my hair soft while still controlling curls but it left them looking stringy and weighed down as if the product was just sitting on my hair as opposed to being absorbed by it. I am also not a very big fan of the smell of this product. Overall I give this product a 5/10 and would not consider it worth the $20.
Product 2: Shea Moisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen, Grow & Restore Edge Treatment ($8-$10) I give this product a 10/10. I previously used an edge product from Creme of Nature which I felt left them looking a little too slicked down. This product has a much lighter consistency and also acts a strengthening and growth treatment. While using this product I noticed that my edges have grown and now look a lot more full and healthy. This product is also very well worth the cost, if you’re using a small brush or toothbrush to apply, it will easily last a year or more. With that being said, I have absolutely no complaints on this product.
Product 3: Jamaican Mango & Lime Vitamin A,D & E Black Castor Oil ($7) I love this stuff! Considering the benefits that this product has, it is priced exceptionally well. I added this into my routine after washing and before I knew it, my hair was glowing and looking much more healthy. This is a heavy oil but it very easily absorbed allowing my curls to still feel soft and weightless even when used in addition to the other products in my routine. This product also left my hair with a nice light and fruity scent. I first found this product in Sally’s where the selection is limited, however, it can also be found on the Jamaican Mango & Lime brand’s website where you can find variations such as lemongrass, lavender, and mango papaya. I give this product a 10/10 and will definitely be buying again.
Product 4: Creme of Nature Acai Berry Keratin Strengthening Hair Masque ($2) This masque is my favorite on the list. Not only is it super cheap but even with long, thick curls like mine you can get at least 2 uses out of the packet. The Creme of Nature brand currently only sells the product in small packets at places such as Walmart and beauty supply stores so I am patiently waiting for the day that I can actually buy a jar of this stuff because it is amazing! I’m seriously considering buying in bulk next time I come across it. I’ve never come across a product that made my curls look as good as they do when I use this product. The product has a soft and creamy texture so it easily spreads through curls and leaves them looking tight and shiny. The smell is also amazing and lingers on your hair until the next wash. I give this product a 10/10, it is without a doubt my #1 favorite hair masque.