Shea Moisture Repair & Transition Kit Review

Hey Guys,

<--CurlyKeila :)

So, this past September I was the winner for the Naturally Curly 'Grow Out Challenge'  and won free Shea Moisture products!!! Yay!!! So, of course I had to test it out last night. Here are the results:

Shea Moisture Retention Shampoo: I like how thick this shampoo is it's like a conditioner; very sudsy; didn't have an odor; didn't strip my hair and left some moisture. I would recommend this shampoo.

Shea Moisture Restorative Conditioner: This is moisturizing however I had to use a lot of product, I hate that its not as thick as the shampoo. This conditioner to me was too light for my taste; I prefer As I Am Coconut Co Wash. This may work on curlies who use lighter products.

Shea Moisture Deep Treatment Masque: I really like this, it left my hair so soft! I left it in for like 40 minutes, the jar says 5-30 minutes but I was eating gumbo lol. The smell isn't that bad, it smells at first but I had completely forgot about the odor once I started applying it. I would definitely recommend this!

Shea Moisture Reconstructive Elixir: This smells sooo good! I applied this after putting the Tresemme Naturals as a leave in. I think I put a tad bit too much so I would advise to go easy on it.

As far as the next day, my hair doesn't feel as moisturized I know part of it is due to the weather. Also, I should have put the Shea Moisture Enhancing Smoothie in then sprayed the elixir. Not sure, but I will give this a go again and make a video blog next time.

Naturally Curly is still doing the Grow Out contest so go sign up and start blogging and win some free products!!! Check it out here: http://www.naturallycurly.com/curlynikki/grow-out-challenge?utm_source=nc_newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=20121227_grow_out_challenge

Until next time y'all,

XOXO Keila

UPDATE: I recently did a hair tutorial on a few of Shea Moisture products reviewed here, so you can check that out here: http://youtu.be/dB-oH-MxbGI

FASHION 2012 FALL

I love Fashion, it is a great way to express yourself and create. BUT, I am very disappointed in the trends that became popular this Fall/Winter. The industry has ABUSED the Cross symbol by making it "fashionable" and DISRESPECTING it by associating it with Skulls. The Cross is OUR, and by our I mean us Christians, way of remembering that Jesus died for our sins. It is positive, it gives us hope, it shows GOD's love for us by allowing his son to die to save us from our sins. It is not a trend or a fad it is a way of life! Then to associate it with skulls which represents death, darkness is Blasphemy in my opinion! I have also witnessed clothes with the cross and UPSIDE down cross. The upside down cross is the sign of the DEVIL, do NOT be fooled! They are promoting evil right now, if you didn't believe that we are in the end of times the proof is in the pudding! I just had to acknowledge what is going on and I hope you all do not fall victim of this evil doing. Moving along...

SEQUIN SWEATERS

It's cold, it's raining so pull out those sweaters girls! I've been noticing the sequin sweaters and I love them! I just purchased two and have gotten many compliments.

First up, is Nordstroms Tasha Topper in Gold:

I just purchased this and can't wait to wear it! These will pair great with a pair of leggings or skinnies. Cute flats, pumps, or combat boots if you want to spice it up! I'm thinking of wearing my Joe Jeans black jeggings with my gold studded Steve Madden boots and my gold/black shimmer headband. I'll take pics and update on this page.

Next up, is the Chole K sequin sweater in Burgundy:

I love and have this! I adore plums, burgundies and maroons it really compliments dark skinned ladies like myself ;p! I wear black jeggings with this or my burgundy pants. You can dress this up or down and I love the pocket detail.

Check this sequin dress out by Stella McCartney: 

AND this daring sequin sweater by TopShop:

Talk about hitting gold! This will definitely turn heads! No need to over accessorize with this one because it is the accessory. A simple bracelet or earrings will do. Leggings or a long skirt and Flats or pumps!

Ladies stock up on your sequin sweater and take advantage of the cold weather! Stay warm and cute! XOXO Keila

NATURAL THIS, NATURAL THAT

Sooo, I recently purchased some products from www.butters-n-bars.com and I purchased the Organic Aloe and Green Tea Facial Toner and Australian Olive Green Facial Masque.

Review: The Facial Toner is AWESOME! It really helps when I have breakouts, I just apply the toner all over morning and night and my pimples start to go down the next morning. I'm washing my face with African Black Soap and moisturizing with Organic Unrefined African Shea Butter from Butters N Bars. My blemishes are starting to clear up as well. Next purchase will be their Raw African Black Soap, I love this site!

The Facial Masque works great as well but my skin feels very dry, sometimes a little irritated when rinsing it off. I think maybe the Australian Pastel Pink Masque may suit me better because I have very sensitive skin. Nonetheless, the Olive Green Masque is great but if you have very sensitive skin like I do I suggest trying the Pastel Pink Masque.
*SURPRISE* When checking out your items put in the coupon code: STRAWBERRICURLS for a 10 percent off!

NATURALLY CURLY

So I won the Naturally Curly Grow-Out Challenge sponsored by Shea Moisture for the month of September!!!! WOO HOO!  I won the Shea Moisture Repair and Transition Kit, I am awaiting my package and will update you all on the products!

MY CURRENT STATE OF HAIR

My hair is growing like crazy and I am happy but no so happy with the tangles and knots! My hair has been feeling a little dry, most likely from the weather, and the not so fun tangles are annoying! I have to admit I have not been taking care of my hair like I should be. I need a much needed DT of just plain ol Trader Joe's Raw Honey. I def might need a strengthening treatment and I think I'll use the products I won from Naturally Curly.

I hope all of you are doing better than me in the moisture department and keeping those tresses healthy! Happy Holidays y'all! XOXO Keila

BEFORE I GO INTO 2013...

Hey y'all, it's been a minute since my last post so I have some updates for y'all!

I have officially launched my fundraiser campaign for "I Beez In This Trap"!!!! I am starting a series of web comedy sketches, similar to In Living Color, MadTV etc., so let's bring variety shows back! Please donate to this project and tell all your friends and relatives to donate as well! Here is the link: http://igg.me/p/292690 DONATE TODAY, TOMORROW!!!

I was recently interviewed by the popular hair blog site Curly Nikki! Mrs. Nikki is so cool for this and I am grateful she gave me the opportunity to tell my story! Check out her site NOW as well as my interview: http://www.curlynikki.com/2012/12/on-couch-with-actress-keila-hamilton.html#comment-form

I was recently on "Key and Peele" season finale for their second season as the Bikini Girl, check out the hilarious sketch: http://youtu.be/4SUoi_9asBU

So, "Wassup En LA" was shy 15k from our fundraising goal. However, the producers are working on another way to get extra funding for the project. This show is amazing and we will get this project going so continue to have faith and patience! Please stay connected with us at our FB page https://www.facebook.com/wassupenla?fref=ts and LIKE us!

The project "Release" that I've been cast in is also working on a fundraiser campaign so I will keep you all updated on it once it is launched.

You all remember the superhero project I did called "Real Heroes LA," right? Well, our fundraising campaign was not successful so the film's release date will be pushed back to 2014. On a brighter note, we were invited to speak at "Bent-Con 2012" and it was a great turnout! The audience were receptive to the webisodes of my amazing sidekicks! Check them out here: http://youtu.be/18j1BPvMtwQ

BENT-CON 2012 "REAL HEROES LA" CAST WITH COSTUME DESIGNER ANDREA

Thank you all for tuning in, keep checking back for more updates! Happy Holidays everyone, XOXO Keila!

A Natural Curly Girl's Journey...Part DEUCE

Okay so in continuation of my hair care routine... I know it seems like a lot but it's really not! LOL

Protein Treatment: This is essential for have "strong" hair. I do this every 3 weeks but if you feel like your hair is getting brittle and breaking easily then you might want to do this more often.

1 Egg (I use the egg whites)
About 6 Tablespoons of Mayo (This ish STANK)
About 6 Tablespoons of yogurt ( I use Greek plain)

I stir this stank pot and apply evenly from root to ends. Cover with a plastic bag, then wrap with a towel and leave on for about 30 minutes.
Then, I rinse with COOL water (don't rinse with warm or hot water or you'll have an omelette on your head) and I do a co-wash.

Deep Conditioning Treatment: I follow up with this after my protein treatment but I also do this once a week (when I'm not slacking :/ )

2 Tablespoons of Trader Joe's Raw Honey
2 Tablespoons of Trader Joe's Organic Virgin Coconut Oil

I first warm up the honey then add the oil and stir. I apply it evenly from root to ends, then I cover with a plastic bag and wrap with a towel. I let it sit for 30 minutes, try using warm heat if you can.
I rinse with cool water and VOILA, trust when I say your tresses will feel amazing!

HAIR LOSS: I have a small bottle of Rosemary oil I usually add two drops in my conditioner or my Pre-Poo treatment. Rosemary is suppose to stimulate hair growth. When using an essential oil like Rosemary make sure to use a carrier oil ie. Coconut oil, Sweet almond oil, since Rosemary is highly concentrated.

Here is a recipe that I got from CURLY NIKKI : Check the site for more info on this remedy
3 drops cedarwood essential oil
3 drops lavender essential oil
3 drops lemon essential oil
3 drops rosemary essential oil
3 drops thyme essential oil
1/8 cup grapeseed oil
1/8 cup jojoba oil

A Natural Curly Girl's Journey...

Yerooooo ( In my Scooby Doo voice)!!!! I hope everyone had a wonderful (HOT) summer so far and I see the heat is starting to cool down. Well October 5th will mark my SIX MONTH BIG CHOP ANNIVERSARY....wow, it's already half a year! Any who, I wanted to share some pics of my hair growth as well as my hair maintenance routine for you curlies and future curlies. Enjoy :)

 This is from April when I BC'd.

 This was in June, when I use to do the Tightly Curly Method (More on that below)

 This was the beginning of September, I did a twist out.

Again September, I did a twist out and tried my take on the "fro-hawk."

This is my current hairstyle as of right now, maybe I'll discover a new one.

Here is the front view, so much growth :). Yes I did a twist out; my FAV.

HAIR CARE
Pre-Poo: I detangle my hair with water and Trader Joe's Organic Virgin Coconut Oil; takes almost an hour :/

Co-Wash: I don't shampoo because of the harmful sulfates. However, to clarify my scalp/hair I use a cup of AGUA aka water and TWO(2) Tablespoons of Apple Cider Vinegar. I do this "rinse" once every two weeks or when my hair feels like it has a lot of product.

CO-WASH I wash my hair with conditioner only! YES, you heard right ladies you can wash your hair with conditioner by itself. I like Trader Joe's Tea Tree Tingle conditioner but I just discovered Tresemme Naturals and GAWD it's amazing! Super moisturizing and lots of slip, curly girls dream!

LEAVE-IN: I use giovanni 50/50 weightless and it smells soooo freakin good! But I will be searching around to see what else is out there.

Stylers: After the Leave-In, I use Shea Moisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie(the smell, YUM) then Eco Styler Gel and then seal with Shea butter. VOILA, there's my routine lol!

I mentioned the Tightly curly method, here is the site to get more info: Tightly Curly Method

I think I ran my mouth LOL, so I'm gonna do a PART 2....

WHAT'S GOING ON???

Hello people! I hope everyone is enjoying their hot summer so far, well I decided to do a new post to fill you all in on what I've been up to. I did an internet clip for an inspirational website called, Spirit Clips. The title of the project is, Move In Day and I play Bethany the peppy character. I am waiting for the project to be completed but I encourage all of you to check out the site, www.spiritclips.com . This June, I finished filming for the indie comedy, Real Heroes LA!

I had a BLAST with the cast and crew. This was my first full feature film and I couldn't have been any happier nor blessed. It'll be due out next year and I will update you on the movie.

I have recently been cast in a short film titled, Release and I play the strong-willed character Monica. The film is about a young college student suffering from depression and self-mutilation due to a childhood of mental and sexual abuse. Currently, we are raising funds and it is greatly appreciated if you can donate and tell your friends and family. Remember anything counts! http://igg.me/p/159046 DONATE here.

In regards to the status of Wassup En LA, we are aiming to shoot this Fall however, we are seeking funding for the project as well. Your donation means a lot and we would love for you to pass the good word around! Here is the site where you can donate: http://kck.st/T1rLUq

Thank you guys for reading my blog I appreciate it and stay tuned for more info and great news! Have a blessed day! XOXO, Keila

INEXPENSIVE BEAUTY TIPS 101

I usually don't do this but I wanted to be normal for a second and talk about normal daily life lol! If that makes sense, well us women are always spending unnecessary money on products that NEVER work! I am a VICTIM, yes victim of the "waste your money" help group. Until now, I recently have been an avid fan of the all natural website www.curlynikki.com and I freaking LOVE it! I've gotten so many tips on my hair and skin care as well. Please check it out ladies it is soooo worth it!

Now, I pride myself in having pretty good skin but every now and then I would suffer from breakouts. It was starting to get out of control. After immersing in Curly Nikki's website for natural hair maintenance, I discovered homemade skin care remedies on the site as well as www.livestrong.com (<--- THEE ISH!!!)

One remedy that caught my eye was the Brown Sugar Facial Scrub. I am an AVID fan of brown sugar I use it on EVERYTHING! I haven't touched regular sugar in YEARS! Brown sugar is the truth y'all! Anywho, here is the recipe for it: (Note: This is the measurements I use, your skin may be different so measure accordingly to your problem.)

1 TBSP of Brown Sugar
1 TBSP of honey (I suggest raw honey)
Several drops of  Lemon Juice
Few drops of Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO)

Apply in a upward circular motion, let it sit for 15 minutes, massage with the tip of your fingers very GENTLY, rinse, then apply a steaming hot towel on your face until it cools, then moisturize.

*Brown Sugar exfoliates dead skin cells, tighten pores, evens skin tone.
*Honey is a humectant that retains moisture in the air.
*Lemon Juice is a skin brightener, lightening dark spots and blemishes
*EVOO softens and moisturizes the skin without clogging the pores.

I have sensitive/dry skin so its a must I add EVOO, I have a few blemishes so the lemon juice def helps. I added these two but you don't have to. I also moisturize with Unrefined African Shea butter after.

Proof that this stuff works here are two before and after pics. (NOTE: I am wearing make up but its very light, Bare Minerals).

BEFORE

                                                                         AFTER
If you zoom in on the pics my pores are tighter in the 2nd pic. This stuff works! So try it out and let me know what you think!
XOXO, Keila

Big Things Poppin', no T.I!

Hey everyone, hope all is well with ya! I'm overdue for a post plus there are a lot taking place. First, I just relaunched my website, www.keilahamilton.com and I love it! So, after reading this please take a look at it and see all the new up dates! Plus, I just launched my website for my production company, 3XEntertainment www.3xentertainment.com take a look at that as well!

My new web comedy sketch show, KO.TV is officially launched as well, http://www.youtube.com/user/OFFICIAL1KOTV?feature=guide this is the preview teaser until the first sketch drops so check it out and laugh!

I am also working on a pitch for a short film I wrote that I plan on filming in the summer. This is a very important pitch because I am seeking funding and pushing for it to be turned into a feature film!

Other projects I am working on: I just signed a contract for the indie film I will be shooting in June and I had my first fitting for it, super exciting!

"Wassup En LA" will be filming in the summer, I know a lot of you have been inquiring about it and thank you for your interest! The original scheduled shoot was in April but has been pushed to summer, so it's still going down y'all and I can't wait! Please check out our site, www.wassupenla.com and LIKE us on www.facebook.com/wassupenla !

In addition to all of that, I am currently rehearsing for a short film that will be shooting in the summer as well! More details soon but I will be playing a teacher!

It's a lot going on and I'm just trying to keep the creative juices flowing and stay productive! There are other projects that I'm not ready to reveal yet but please keep checking back! I really do appreciate your support it means so much to me and I want to thank all of you for rooting for me. I am humbled. Until next time y'all, XOXO Keila.

THE BC!!!

So, about two weeks ago I was feeling really stressed and overwhelmed it was so much to do and not enough funding. I know people say hair is not important but I think it symbolizes things taking place in your life meaning making drastic changes to your hair. Well I was so tired of straightening my hair and I continued to damage it by not properly taking care of it. I decided I was done straightening it and I was going to wear it natural. Well my hair had lost some of it's natural curl pattern because I was straightening way too much. So I decided to "man" up lol and cut it off! Since then I haven't felt a single ounce of stress. I feel so renewed and refreshed; I really feel like a weight has been lifted off my shoulders. It's such a liberating feeling! I just love my hair and I'm really taking the time to care for it so that it can grow back healthier than before (this is my second time cutting my hair). I just think as African American woman we condition ourselves to have that European look i.e straight long weaves, lightening of skin. It's sad that we don't embrace our natural hair. I know plenty of women who would NEVER wear their natural hair out because they are insecure about the appearance. Men scream they want a "natural" woman yet they chase after the girls with the longest weaves, fakest nails, eyes, eyelashes, and unnatural body parts. I'm not trying to bash us I'm just saying take it back to our roots. Don't be afraid to embrace everything that is natural about you, flaws and all! I write this with my best intentions and hope you all feel inspired. Below are my hair pics over the years lol, enjoy. XOXO Keila

This was the longest my hair grew back in 2007. ;( lol

Me after I cut it in 2008. I cut it shorter after this pic.

Me in my process of still growing out my hair to its natural length, 2011.

Me wearing it natural, as you can see the ends are stringy no curls at all, 2012.

Me now after chopping it off! The curls!!!!

March MADNESS!!!

Hellloooo everyone!!! I hope all is well with all of you as it is with me! So, it's been about two months since I last blogged so I decided to check in with you guys to give you an update on what's taking place! "Wassup En LA" will be filming NEXT MONTH!!!! Woo Hoo!!! I am excited and giddy about the whole process and can't wait for the outcome of it all. Also, check out www.actorsinfobooth.com we were featured and interviewed! The indie film that I will be filming in the summer will have our first rehearsals probably next month. I can't wait to meet all the other cast members and get to working on that project. All I can say is it involves costumes and superheroes, fun right??! Also, I just wrote a short film and I am working on getting that project launched as well. There is so much happening and I'm just trying to stay focus and calm, which is completely difficult for me lol! But I can't wait to share everything with you guys so you can understand my vision and passion. So just stay tuned, I know I say that a lot but perfection takes time. Thank you guys so much for reading...TTYS!!! XOXO Keila

It's 2012...2011 is officially OVER!!!!

But before we continue on with 2012 let's take a look at 2011, shall we? 2011 was a great year for me with some minor ups and downs; nonetheless it was great professionally and personally. Here's a brief look at my own 2011! Enjoy :)

JANUARY 2011
I traveled to New York City for the first time ever and it was an AMAZING, UNFORGETTABLE experience! I was also able to see one of my biggest musical influences, PRINCE!

FEBRUARY 2011
I received my FIRST principal role as a dancer on NBC's Parenthood! Although, I was edited out it was my first major credit and I am grateful for the experience. P.S. Don't laugh at my sloppy attempt to black out legal information! I love y'all but I don't know ya like that! :)

MAY 2011
After several months of THREE callbacks, I was finally chosen to play the outgoing, funny character Tawana for the new sitcom comedy, Wassup En LA! It was a warm and sunny day at King Taco...and yes I tore those tacos up!

Make sure you check us out at www.wassupenla.com, twitter.com/wassupenla, facebook.com/wassupenla.

JUNE 2011
I participated in the AFTRA Radio Plays at the Wells Fargo Theater located at the Gene Autry National Center. Please if you're ever in the area or just want to check out some cool historic stuff, GO THERE! The AFTRA Radio Plays pays tribute to the golden age of radio. Our segment was from the hit radio and television show, Father Knows Best, I voiced the role of Betty. This was my first voice over project and I had so much fun. Our director, Clyde Sacks, was amazing as well as the cast.

EARLY TO LATE SUMMER 2011
I worked regularly on the hit Disney show, Ant Farm, as a student and cheerleader. I had a great time with the crew and cast; very nice people. My best friend on the show was Wacky the Wolf, we would always get into trouble at school! :)

JULY 2011
There is a special organization called, MOCITI, which stands for Men of Color in the Industry. The ambassador of this great organization is Obba Babatunde who spoke at a master class that I attended. It was a very inspirational workshop not only did I get to perform a scene in front of him but meet him as well. I am honored to hear this talented man's wisdom and story of surviving Hollywood. Check out his work, he's done some great things in his career and is still going on strong!

Obba Babatunde is pictured right, sitting down.

AUGUST 2011
One of the funniest female actresses is no doubt Jane Lynch! So when I was set to work the 2011 Do Something Awards and found out that she was hosting I was excited. She is very sweet, nice and extremely funny. I had a great time working the show and watching her.

OCTOBER 2011
I love fashion I believe it is another way of expressing yourself. So I was invited to L.A. Fashion Weekend 2011 and was able to see some great fashion and modeling as well!

My gorgeous friend Elle Drane, she ripped the runway! Check out her work, beautiful!

DECEMBER 2011
We approach the holidays and the end of an amazing year but wait there's more! I auditioned for an independent film and was considered for one of the lead roles! As I said before it is a comedy spoof and I am very excited about this project. More information will be given soon!

Well, I had a great time making this post it definitely brought back memories and the realization of the goals that I've accomplished so far. I hope 2011 was inspirational and worthwhile for you ALL and if not make this year YOUR YEAR! Thanks again so much for checking out the blog I hope you enjoyed it. Happy New Year! XOXO Keila.