While listening to Sade...

New Music Video: Sade - Baby Father
- Watch more Music Videos at Vodpod.

Hey Bellas,

I'm back! Finals are O-V-E-R! And thus ends the most taxing, infuriating, and challenging semester of my college career! Hallelujah! I had two weeks between the end of my Spring Semester, and the beginning of my Summer semester. One down, one to go. Last week I spent my time decompressing! I didn't go anywhere for 6 days straight! I've spent my time reading, online shopping, baking for my family, spoiling Max, listening to Sade, and watching DVD's of The Big Bang Theory & the last 6 new episodes of LOST on my DVR! I've had a BLAST!

My hair is a MESS, and I don't care! I haven't even thought about putting on my wig. I literally look like a wild women. But after all the weeks of studying I had to do in order to pass my statistics class, my appearance is the LAST thing I'm worried about. So, far be it for me to do any product reviews, when my hair is obviously in need of help and prayer. LOL

However, I can make some other recommendations. For those of you who like history and/or romance novels, allow me to introduce you to the author Beverly Jenkins. I have been devouring her novels for the past week (I have 5 more on the way), and let me tell you, she is the TRUTH! So interesting, so romantic, so exciting! You will not be disappointed! Here's a link to her Amazon Page. I started off with Indigo. I own and have read HUNDREDS of African American Fiction, however Indigo, by Beverly Jenkins is the BEST book I've ever read. PERIOD!

Let's see.....I think that's all I wanted to share....so, if you've been wondering what Southern Bella's been up to, I've been vegging out.....doing absolutely nothing....and loving every minute of it! LOL

So, I hope all is well with you and yours. And I'll be back soon with some product reviews when I decide to stop looking like a crazy woman, and actually do something with my hair! :)

RANT: The Great Penny Debate

These past three weeks I've been noticing a new trend that has really started to tick me off. Cashiers keeping my change. Granted, I'm not talking about quarters or dimes, but still.....since when did the penny stop being considered money??

Twice a week I'm pressed for time and starving, so I find myself sitting in a drive through line grabbing something quick to eat. Every time, I order the same thing. Every time, my total is $4.97. Every time, I pass the cashier (whomever they may be) a $5 bill. Every time, they pass me my receipt WITHOUT my 3 cents in change! (As I type this, I know that I sound like a crazy woman, ranting over 3 cents.....I'm actually debating whether I should even post this rant at all because the more I write, the dumber it sounds........nope......I'm still pissed.....I'm posting it! On with the rant.....)

I know there are far bigger issues for me to take a stand over. I know that my time would be more useful if I channeled it into studying for my finals, or if I reminded my neighbors to fill out their census forms, or if I taught my new puppy how to come when I call his name. However, this penny thing has me pissed.

And this hasn't just happened to me at my favorite burger joint either. It happened at a discount store last Tuesday. My total was $9.98, I passed the cashier a $10 bill, and he passed me my receipt. The End. What the hell??

My friends and family are sick of hearing about me and my stolen pennies. They've all told me to leave it alone and start paying with my debit card to eliminate confusion. They say nobody uses cash anymore, and after all, its just a few pennies, and what am I gonna do with a purse full of pennies anyway? I say, that's not the damn point. My point is, money is money. If we start letting cashiers keep our pennies, what's next? Quarters? Dollars? Letting them write checks to themselves? ( I know....too far.)

So, my few dedicated readers, what should I do? Take a stand, and demand my pennies from now on? Or, should I just shut up and take my receipt....after all, it's just a penny.

Time for a New Style!

Well, I realized today that I will NOT be able to make it through the rest of the Spring and the coming Summer, wearing a wig! Nope, not gonna happen! Louisiana is far too hot and humid, and I am far too hot-natured, to wear my natural hair braided underneath a stocking cap, underneath a wig! Talk about sweltering! I got a taste of the heat today, it was about 80 degrees, and I was MISERABLE! So, I realized that I need a new protective style for the upcoming heat, as I continue my transition. So, I am considering getting micro-braids.

The hair that I have chosen is the same hair that SongBirdDiva4Life did a review on a few weeks ago. (Click the link to see the hair in all its big, curly, GLORY!! It is BEAUTIFUL!) This is how the hair looks straight out of the pack, freshly installed.

It will curl up more after it's spritzed with some H2O. I'm still unsure though, so it's time for a Pro's and Con's List!

***Pro's for Micro-Braids***

• Somewhat low maintenance.
• I will still be able to shampoo my scalp without disturbing the style too much.
• Instead of having to get my whole head re-braided, I'll just have to get my edges touched-up when they start looking frizzy.
• They are LONG lasting! I am planning to wear this protective style from May-September(Labor Day), so around 4 months. I'd probably get them touched up once a month to keep them looking fresh.
• Most importantly, my scalp will be able to breath!!

***Con's for Micro-Braids***

• The install time could be extensive! I have a big head, and a lot of thick hair. The last time I got micro's it took 24 hours! Granted, a non-professional installed them,and we had to keep stopping because of........... various interruptions (*side-eye*) but still......when I think about getting those micro's installed, my butt starts to hurt all over again! If it weren't for my best-friend keeping me company (thanks, Carlos!), I would have left with half my head braided and NEVER come back!
• I will have to find a Professional braider.....in my neck of the woods this will be a mission! ( I refuse to sit in someone's kitchen getting my hair braided!.....Been there, done that!)
• Since I have been transitioning for a year, I have 6+ inches of new growth, in addition to the rest of my hair, which is relaxed, and is now Bra Strap Length. So, I'm not sure how well my hair will blend with the "wet & wavy" hair.......I'd have to ask a professional. But 3 different textures of hair may pose a problem.
• Since not all of my hair will be braided, a substantial amount will be free within the braids.......therefore, it is really a "protective style?"

Decisions, Decisions........I'll have to make my mind up within the next two weeks so I can order the hair, locate a braider, and schedule an appointment for the first weekend in May. So.....what do you think? What are your experiences with micro's? And what are your plans for your hair this spring and summer?

BTW- The hair is "Janet Collection: Remy Legacy Super French Bulk" in 18 inches. I'm still shopping around for prices. The lowest I've found is $85 a pack. And I'd need 3 packs just to be safe.

Just Plain Ol' Lazy!

(This pic is how I feel about deep conditioning my hair....)

Wig wearing has really made me lazy! I have gone from deep conditioning twice a week, to ONCE a month (maybe)! Gone are the days of steaming in conditioners, jumping in and out of the shower to rinse and repeat, and sitting under my hooded dryer. I'm even too lazy to wear my cordless heat cap! Wow.....how times have changed!

Thankfully, the cowashing and moisturizing that I do once a week has kept my hair in great shape. Surprisingly, my hair hasn't suffered at all from the lack of attention. This got me thinking about whether deep conditioning, is even necessary. Also, the term "healthy hair" has started to spark my interest. We all know that hair is dead, therefore, how can something that's dead be healthy? Just pondering......

I can't really say that my revelation of being "hair lazy" will prompt me to change my ways. I really just don't have the time to devote to the process of deep conditioning as often as I once could. To make me feel better about abandoning my weekly deep conditioning sessions, I found this article, that backs up my laziness. It's from the wonderful website http://www.longhairdontcare.net/ and the article is titled, "There's no such thing as Deep Conditioning???" Very interesting.....and worth the read!

Puppy Love

Been wondering where I've been?

Quite simply, I've been taking care of the new addition to my life. His name is Max. He is 3 months old, and a handful! He flew in from Florida last week, and we've been bonding ever since. I just can't get over how adorable he is! So, please excuse the lack of content. I'll get back to business soon. But for now, I'll be teaching Max how to pee-pee on puppy pads, and not my carpet. LOL

Product Review- ELF Natural & Dramatic Lashes

Hey Bellas,

I've been wearing these lashes for about a month. The Natural lashes are shorter, but more defined. The Dramatic lashes are longer, and more.......dramatic! LOL Before I continue with this review, I first must say that the glue that is included with these lashes is CRAP! Use this glue only if you love being frustrated and have a lot of time to waste. Now....on with the review:

*How much are they? & Where did you get them?- They are $1 a pack, and I buy them in bulk (14 pairs at a time) at Dollar General stores.
*Are they easy to apply?- With the help of a Lash Applicator, these lashes are fairly easy to apply. It takes practice, patience, and a steady hand, but the payoff is worth it. Instead of using the ELF glue, I use Ardell Lash Glue, it dries clear and is easy to apply.
*How do you apply the lashes?

****Before you apply your lashes, make sure that they fit your eye properly. If they are too long, cut them. Also, line your eyes with a black liner before and after you apply the lashes. This will allow the lash band to be unnoticeable.**********

1. Place the lash inside a lash applicator/holder.
2. Distribute a very small amount of the lash glue on a clean surface (I use a small mirror). Dip a clean toothpick in the glue, and apply a thin line of the glue to the lash band.
3. While holding the lash in the applicator, allow the glue to dry for 30 seconds to 1 minute in order for the glue to get tacky. Pay special attention to the ends of the lashes, because this is where lifting occurs.
4. Close your eye, and starting at the inside corner of your upper lash, tilt the applicator until it is parallel with your upper lash. Apply the lash carefully as close to your lash line as possible.
5. After the lashes have dried for 5 minutes, I curl them with a heated eyelash curler, and apply an obscene amount of  black mascara. I find that the mascara allows my natural lashes and the false lashes to blend easier.
6. And lastly, I use my NYX felt tip black eyeliner to fill in any spots on my lash line where the lash band is noticeable.

And there you have it, these lashes are affordable enough to be worn everyday, and with practice, applying them can be done very quickly! I love them! As always, I hope this review was informative and helpful. If you have any questions, just leave me a comment.

Be Well,
Southern Bella

Wig Maintenance

I got an email from a reader a few days ago asking how I washed and took care of my wigs. So, instead of just responding to her, I decided to write a post about my wig maintenance routine. Since I only wear curly, synthetic wigs, my routine may be different from how others would instruct you to wash a straight, or human hair wig. So, let me preface this by saying this is how I wash MY wigs. I am by no means saying this is how you should wash yours. I am simply sharing my routine. Get it? (I had to put that disclaimer in before someone leaves a comment talking about how I made her mess her wig up! LOL)

Ok...Here Goes:

1. I make sure that my wig is as detangled as possible.
2. I fill my bathroom sink with lukewarm water and squeeze a teaspoon of wig shampoo in the water stream.
3. I take the wig and submerge it in the water and swish it around for a few minutes.
4. I transfer the wig to the shower and rinse the shampoo out with lukewarm water.

**Repeat steps 3& 4 twice**

5. I apply I palm size amount of a cheapie conditioner ( usually V05) to the wig with my hands and distribute evenly. I leave the conditioner on the wig for about 5-10 minutes.
6. I transfer the wig to the shower again, and rinse the conditioner out with lukewarm water.
7. I wrap the wig in a towel, being careful not to disturb the curls. (messing with the curls while the hair is dripping wet may alter the curl pattern.)
8. I place the wig on a flat surface, on top of a towel to dry. (hanging a wet wig up to drip-dry may elongate the curls, and alter the original curl pattern.)
9. After the wig is about 90% dry, I spray it with lightly with distilled water, brush through it with a paddle brush, (or detangle with my fingers), cover wig with a net cap, and lay the wig on a flat surface to dry.

Throughout the week, after I take my wig off at night I repeat step 9, spray with distilled water, detangle, cover with net, lay flat to dry. No special wig sprays, no special products, just distilled water. I find that using actual  "wig maintenance products" on my wigs limits how long they last. Distilled water does the trick for me.

As always, I hope this information was helpful. If you have any questions, just leave me a comment below.

Happy V-Day! & Small Drug Store Haul

Hey Bellas,

Hope your V-day was lovely, and that all is well in your world. I started off the day, as I do most Sundays, hitting my local Drug Stores (Rite Aid, CVS, Freds, & Walgreens) armed with my brand new sales fliers from the Sunday paper, and my debit card. My dad alerted me about a year ago about all of the BOGO's, and 50% off sales that drug stores have on Sundays. I've been hooked ever since! Also, I like how quiet and peaceful the stores are at 8AM. Just me, (and sometimes my father) and the workers stocking the shelves. My dad stocking up on toothpaste, dryer sheets, and air freshener (don't ask me why......LOL....he loves a bargain!), and me stocking up on conditioner, eyeshadow, and boxes of tissue for my perpetual runny nose! Today, CVS had a great sale on cheapie conditioner and also a 72 color eyeshadow palette. I've never tried the Freesia version of V05, since they were $0.77 each I bought 4 of them, and the eyeshadow palette was $4.99.

  

Also, Rite Aid had an awesome sale. 40% off ALL Wet N Wild Cosmetics! Who knew that Wet N Wild had started making quality products?!? Not me! I always thought of Wet N Wild as the cheap brand that made that God awful cherry red, hooker lipstick! Lord knows I hate red lipstick!! But I digress.......long story short, Wet N Wild has started producing quality products for the same inexpensive price. I took advantage of the 40% off sale. I got a Intense Mascara in Very Black ($2.99), an eyeshadow palette in Sand Castle ($2.99), a Brow Kit in Brown ($2.39), and a blush ($1.79)

I haven't used any of the products yet. However, if anyone would like a review of one or more of these products, just let me know. Oh, I'll have an Ulta Haul sometime this week. My local Ulta has just started carrying NYX cosmetics, so you know I'll have some goodies to review!

Random Musings....

Hey Bellas,

I know my posting has been sporadic lately. Mainly because I haven't done or tried anything new. I've been using the same products, following the same regimen, and wearing the same wig (my beloved Tammy) since January. I realized this morning, that next month will be my one year anniversary! It will have been a year since my last relaxer! Wow....time flies! I am so proud of myself. My decision to "go natural" was more of an experiment on my part than anything else. In all honesty, I'm surprised I lasted this long. I talked a good game....trying to sound confident in my decision.  But in reality, I wasn't 100% convinced I could leave relaxers behind. So, just like my friends and family, I've been in "wait & see" mode this past year. Waiting to see what my natural hair looks and feels like. I have almost 7 inches of new growth! It's AMAZING!

Thankfully, the more my hair grows, the more comfortable I am with my decision. This year, I'll continue on my transitioning journey. I'll continue protecting my hair under wigs until I end my transition sometime in May 2011. Hopefully, the way that I'm choosing to transition will help someone else as they consider transitioning. I am by no means trying to convert anyone, however, choosing to transition, and sticking with it, has been one of the best decisions I've ever made for myself.

Be Well Bellas,
More Content Coming Soon....

GEAUX SAINTS!

I can't express how proud I am to be from Louisiana! I'll never leave. This Southern Belle is overjoyed for our home team victory.I still don't think it's hit me yet.....The Saints actually won the Superbowl!! I'm BEAMING! Saints, you did us proud! I know my Grandmother in Heaven is literally on Cloud Nine right now!! WHO DAT?!?!  Geaux Saints!!

Hairsisters.com, You Just Lost One....

Hello Bellas!

Last month I bought 4 wigs at Hairsister.com's after Christmas sale. They were a wonderful price, and they arrived in 7 days.....HOWEVER, I had to call EVERY day to ensure that my items were in stock, that my order had been processed, and that my order was on its way. It was time consuming and tedious. But for the price, I put up with the incompetent service.

Two weeks ago, I placed another order with Hairsisters. I called the next day to make sure my items were in stock, and that my order had been processed. PROBLEM.....one of my items, even though it was advertised on their site, was NOT in stock. So, of course I asked how long it would take them to get the piece from the manufacturer. Their response? 3 to 6 WEEKS!!!!! Nope! Nada! Not Gonna Happen!! So, I canceled the back ordered item, requested a refund for the price of the item, and asked them to ship the other piece that they had in stock. After a few days of checking my bank account and checking my Hairsisters account, I noticed that the other half of my order had NOT been shipped, nor had my money for the canceled item been refunded. By this point, I am beyond inconvenienced, and have moved on to being majorly pissed!

So, I called Hairsisters AGAIN (I have their number memorized by this point.) After I called 10 times finally someone answers and tells me my refund request had not been properly processed and that it would take an additional 3-5 days before it would be credited back to my account. In addition to that, she told me that the other half of my order had been "delayed" (ie- forgotten) and that she would make sure that it would be shipped out today. (9 days after placing my initial order!!!)

It shouldn't take this much aggravation to order some dang hair! So now Bellas, I am officially DONE with Hairsisters.com. Businesses only have one time to mess with my money before I drop them like a bad habit. One strike and you’re OUT!!

The good news is that I've found a NEW Hair/Beauty Supply website that I LOVE!!!! Golden Mart Beauty Supply. I ordered a piece from them on 1/29/10 (a Friday night),  Monday I received a shipping confirmation email, along with a tracking number (something I NEVER got from Hairsisters.) And my package arrived Wednesday!! THREE BUSINESS DAYS!! Also, their site has a 99.9% in stock rate, which means if you see it on their site, in your color, THEY HAVE IT!!! No waiting for it to be ordered from the manufacturer!! Also, none of that choosing a 2nd color nonsense! An added bonus is that their selection is MUCH larger than Hairsisters, and their customer service is a DREAM! If you have a question, all you have to do is email them (during business hours), they wrote me back in less than 5 minutes!! Oh, and they also included a nice comb as a free gift!

Now.....the downside......their prices are, in some cases, a little more expensive than Hairsisters, and their shipping is kinda steep. I ordered a $12.95 ponytail, and the shipping was $7.95. But, their shipping is FAST, and I don't have to babysit my order! So, for me, it's well worth it!

Sorry for the rant, but hopefully you'll benefit from my experience. Due to their poor customer service, Hairsisters.com has just lost one.....

Transitioning Update

Hello Bellas,

Last week, after cowashing my hair I took of picture of my new growth. If you are new to my blog you may not know that I am transitioning from relaxed hair, to natural hair. If you would like to know how I reached this decision click here. My last relaxer was in March 2009, so that means I'm 10 months post relaxer! I am AMAZED I was able to transition this long, and with the help of half wigs, the rest of my journey should be a breeze!  I'm planning to transition for a total of 2 1/2 years. So, that means I have about 20 more months until I'm 100% natural. However, I may end my transition at 24 months. It really just depends on how long my unstretched natural hair is. So, here are my comparison pictures. The first picture was taken September 2009, and the second picture was taken January 2010. I'm happy with the progress I'm making, and I look forward to the journey ahead.

I know I'm not the only one on a journey towards healthy hair. What journey are you on?

Are you transitioning? Or thinking about transitioning? Or happily relaxed? Or happily natural?

Let me know in the comment section.

Until Next Time,

Southern Bella

Help Haiti Now!

Granted, this is a somewhat superficial blog that centers around makeup, wigs, and products, but when something this catastrophic happens, I feel obligated to do something. And I'm sure you do as well. This morning I participated in Wyclef Jean's charity to aid in the relief for Haiti. (100% of funds go to aid!) All you have to do is:

Text “Yele” to 501501 on your cell phone and it will automatically charge $5 to your phone bill, and will donate to it to this organization that will serve as a relief org for this disaster. If you don't feel comfortable going this route, consider donating to your local The Red Cross. Every little bit helps.

And if nothing else, keep Haiti in your prayers.
-Southern Bella

Wig Review: Outre Quickweave "Yasmine"

Hello Bella's,

Today, I gave my beloved Tammy wig a break, and tried out one of the other wigs I bought during my Hairsisters.com After Christmas Haul. After about 30 minutes of finger combing and fluffing her out, I can finally say that I love her too! She is soft, wavy, and full of body! This is her model photo:

And this is how she looks on Moi (with a black headband):

Your Frequently Asked Questions:

*How Much Was It? Where Did You Buy It?- $14.39 @ Hairsister's after Christmas Sale.

*What Does the Inside of the Cap Look Like?- She has a long comb in the front, a short comb in the back, and two adjustable straps on either side of the back comb (which I cut out).

*Does She Tangle?- A little bit, but nothing excessive. I just spray her with a little water, finger comb the tangles, and she's brand new again!

*Is She Comfortable?- Since I cut the straps out of her she fits very nicely. Snug, but not too tight. For me, adjustable straps in wigs just get in the way. The hair gets tangled around them, and unless the wig is baggy and loose (which none of my wigs are), I really don't see the need for them.

*My Personal Review: I was reluctant to wear this wig at first because I thought she looked too flat. I'm a "Big Hair" kinda chick, and at first this wig was just too.......bashful. But after fluffing, and finger-combing the heck out of her, finally she started looking more like....me. LOL! Now, I love her! She is very natural looking and soft to the touch. This unit is very thick, with soft, yet strong synthetic fibers. I bought her in color 2, and she is a neutral, medium brown. The best part about this wig is how versatile she is. If you take the time to properly blend your hair with this unit, you will be able to rock her in various ways: half up/half down, ponytail, swept to the side, etc.....You can also accessorize the heck out of her with colorful scarves, headbands, clips, and barrettes. I would HIGHLY recommend this wig to anyone who is thinking about getting started wearing half-wigs. She is easy to wear, and very easy to care for. I am very pleased with this purchase, and as far as I'm concerned, Outre is the leader of the pack when it comes to half wigs! Both the Tammy and Yasmine units are BANGERS!!

*Final Thoughts- I don't know what more I can say about Yasmine that I haven't already said. You can dress her up, or you can through her into a pony tail and go to a football game. She’s great! If you are a veteran wig-wearer who loves the big, highly textured styles (like I do), give Yasmine a try, she's tame, but gorgeous nonetheless. And for all of the wig-wearing newbie's, Yasmine would be the perfect starter unit for you!

As always, I hope this review was informative and helpful.

 Stay on the lookout for my very first GIVEAWAY! It starts next week! Information and Rules will be posted soon!

Also, if you have any questions about Yasmine, or anything else for that matter, just leave a comment below.
Until Next Time,
Southern Bella

Product Review: E.L.F Super Glossy Lip Shine

I've gotten a lot of requests for a review of the E.L.F. glosses that I picked up during my Dollar Store Haul. You asked for it, you got it! This is the product review for E.L.F's Super Glossy Lip Shine Set of 5 (in Berry Yummy)

(Colors from Left to Right: Watermelon, Juiced Berry, Honey Do, Pink Kiss, Angel)

Your Frequently Asked Questions:

*How Much Was It? $5 @ Big Lots (I also bought some individuals at Holiday's Fashion's for $1 each)

*What Does it Claim To Do? (from the website) "This Super Glossy SPF 15 formula fights environmental damage while leaving your lips with a healthy glossy glow. The delicious flavor and sweet scent will leave you licking your lips in delight! The perfect on the go tube that is mess proof for anywhere and anytime! "

*Where Can I Find It? On the E.L.F website of course (just click one of links on the right--->), or you can try your luck at your local Dollar General Store, or Big Lots (where I found my set.)

*My Personal Review: I must confess, I am a lip gloss maniac!! It's a weakness. So, to say that I am knowledgeable about lip glosses is an understatement. Therefore, I think that I am fairly competent to review this line of glosses from an educated perspective. LOL Ok, let's get down to business. The smell? Kind of a grape fruit roll up smell, if that helps you. The taste? A very, mild grape taste. The consistency? Thick, smooth, and no stickier than any other lip gloss. Yes, on a breezy day, your hair will get stuck to your lips with this gloss, but it's not stringy or overly sticky at all. For instance, when I press my lips together, I don't get any of that stringy, gross residue happening. Also, even after wearing this gloss for hours, I got NO white, filmy stuff on the inside of my mouth. (I HATE WHEN THAT HAPPENS!!)Are they true to color? Yes, the matte glosses in the set (Watermelon and Pink Kiss) are glossy but they are not shimmery in the least. These two colors would be great for work because they appear to have more pigment than glitter. However, the remaining colors are all about the glitter!! How long does one application last? In all honesty, no lip gloss I've ever tried has lasted more than 4 hours or so on my lips. Between talking, drinking, and eating, reapplication always is a must. However, my one gripe with these glosses is the design. The size of the hole on the applicator tip is TOO big! Way too much gloss comes out with the slightest amount of pressure on the tube. Therefore, I suggest the use of a lip brush when applying this gloss.

*My Final Thoughts: For a buck a piece, these glosses are totally worth the effort to find or order! They are wonderful! Even the too large applicator tip isn't a deal breaker! You'll find many other lip gloss sets, as well as individual color choices on the E.L.F. website; I just reviewed the set that I purchased since it contained some matte colors as well as some glittery colors. I must confess, I was a lip gloss snob. I would have never dreamed of wearing lip gloss that cost a Buck a tube! My, my, how times have changed! I am putting aside my Lancome glosses ($39.50/for 8 glosses), my Clinique glosses ($25/for 5 glosses), and my beloved MAC Lipglass ($14/ per tube!). I'm an E.L.F. girl from this point on!

If you have any other questions, just ask them in the comments section. As always, I hope this review was informative and helpful.

-Southern Bella

Product Review-Skin MD Natural Shielding Lotion

Disclaimer: I was sent this lotion to review by a representative for Skin MD Natural. However, this review is not in anyway influenced by the makers of this product or thier representatives.

Bellas, this lotion is very interesting. It works by locking in moisture and keeping out contaminants. It has a white appearance with a somewhat milky consistency. It has a light, baby powdery scent (at least to me) and is very pleasant to my senses. (You all know how I am about strong scents. LOL) Now, let's get on with the review for Skin MD Natural Shielding Lotion:

Your Frequently Asked Questions:

*How Much Was It? Where Can I Find It?-  This lotion retails for $18 for 4 oz HERE/ However, it also seems to be available at some Walgreens & Kroger Stores. If you are looking for it at a store near you, visit the Skin MD website. Or, you can stay tuned, because I will be posting a GIVEAWAY for a FREE bottle of this lotion, VERY SOON!!!!

*What Does It Claim To Do? (from the website) "Skin MD Natural uses only the finest natural ingredients, and is focused on urging the skin to be active, and to use its own moisture to effectively heal itself. It is not oily or sticky, doesn't sit on top of your skin leaving a greasy residue on everything you touch, it doesn't rub or wash off easily, is hypoallergenic, fragrance, colorant and paraben free and dermatology tested."

*My Personal Review:

I have to admit, I was skeptical about this lotion, but after trying it out on my constantly dry skin I have no doubts about recommending this lotion to you. I suffer from a mild case of eczema that rears its ugly head on various parts of my body 2 or 3 times a year. Most of the time it flares up in times of extreme stress and leaves after about a month or so of me itching and scratching like a fool. I was right in the middle of an eczema outbreak when this lotion arrived in my mailbox. I've been using it for a few days now, and I can see my rash gradually fading and the itching has completely gone!! However, this lotion isn't just for the sensitive skinned. It's great for everyone! I been sharing it with my family, and they all love how light, yet moisturizing it is. Also, it's not greasy or slimy in any way, and it absorbs into my skin almost instantly. No more rubbing, and rubbing, trying to get a lotion to absorb in my skin (don't you just hate that?) Honestly, this lotion lived up to its word in my case, by locking in the moisture.

*My Final Thoughts:

I am recommending this lotion to anyone who suffers with dry skin, anyone who suffers with sensitive skin or eczema, and anyone who is interested in using natural products on their body. This lotion is for you! I am very pleased with the effects it's having on my skin. Finding a reliable lotion is difficult, I am so happy that I finally found something that works, and leaves my body feeling and looking brand new!

As always I hope you found this review to be informative and helpful.

Stay Tuned for The Black Southern Belle's 1st Giveaway Announcement and Rules!

Until Next Time,

Southern Bella

Makeup Haul- Dollar Store Edition!

Hello Bellas,

If you're looking for some inexpensive makeup, that will allow you to experiment with color without breaking the bank, this post is for you! This week I went to almost every Family Dollar, Dollar General, Dollar Tree, Freds, Big Lots, drug store, and beauty supply store within a 30 mile radius.I was on the look-out for ELF and LA Colors products. And this is what I found:

(BTW- As you can see, I don't know how to set the date on my camera! LOL)

Eyeshadows Up-Close

Lip Gloss Up-Close

***Haul Details***

Face Stuff:

-Cover Girl Queen Collection Pressed Powder in "Brown Bronze 2"

-Maybelline Dream Mouse Bronzer in "Dark"

-L.A. Colors Mystic Foundation Concealer Stick in "Warm Beige"

-L.A. Colors Blush in "Toast"

-L.A. Colors Trio with Blush, LipGloss, and Shimmer

L.A. Colors Eyeshadow Palettes:

-Tease

-Darling

-Wine and Roses

-Truffles

-Eye Candy

-Cool Girl

E.L.F. Lip Gloss:

-Honey Do (2 of those)

-Groovy Grape Swirl

-Juiced Berry

-Pink Kiss

-Watermelon

-Fuchsia Swirl

-Angel

OTHER STUFF:

-N.Y.C. Liquid Lip Shine in # 548

-E.L.F. Smoky Eye Series Kit

-Cuticle Nippers

-3 Piece Cotton Swab Set

-Two sets of Kiss Nails

-2 L.A. Colors Eyeliner in Brown

-2 L.A. Colors Eyeliner in Black

-Revlon Fantasy Lengths Eyelashes

-E.L.F. Dramatic Lash Kit

-E.L.F. Eyelash Curlers

-Clean and Clear Dual Action Moisturizer

If you have any questions about my haul, or if you would like me to review one of the products listed above, just let me know in the comments section. So far, of the products that I've used, I like them a lot! But it's gonna take me a while to try them all! By the way, the entire haul came in under $50!! Discount Stores Rock!

How about you? When was the last time you raided the Dollar Store?

Wig Review: Outre "Tammy" Half Wig

Hello Bellas,

This is the wig review for the much talked-about "Tammy" by Outre. I LOVE HER!!! She is soft, light, and utterly lovely!

                                                            

Here are some of your F.A.Q:

*How much was it? Where did you buy it?   $14.39 @ Hairsisters.com after Christmas Sale.

*What's the inside of the cap like?   This half wig has a drawstring, a comb in the front, and a short comb in the back.

*Does it tangle a lot?   No! Not at all! Especially if you finger comb it a few times throughout the day.

*How long do you think it will last?   Since I don't put ANY products on her whatsoever, I believe that she is capable of lasting for months at a time.

*Is it comfortable?   She is very comfortable to wear. Keep in mind that I am a member of the "Big Head Club" and she fits my dome like a glove. The presence of the drawstring allows me to wear her without having to use bobby pins on the sides for extra security.

*My Personal Review:

Since I started wearing this wig 3 days ago I have been overwhelmed with compliments from friends, family, and even more so, strangers! This wig looks so natural....pictures really don't do it justice! I don't even bother to blend my real hair in with her. I just slide her on, and slide on a head band. At night, I take her off, spray her with a little water, finger comb, and put a net cap on her. In the morning, she is wavy, and looks brand new!! I got her in a color 2, and she is a medium brown, with hints of golden highlights in sunlight. She is the perfect length for me as well (bra strap.) She has a few layers framing the face, but they are subtle. As for her thickness.......Bellas, she is BIG, but thankfully I love big hair so I am not overwhelmed by her "divaness." However, some of you more down to earth Bellas may want to thin her out, or just consider a different wig altogether. I'm telling you, she is not for the faint of heart. But in my humble opinion, all ladies need at least one wild wig in their stash. You never know when you might need it! (wink, wink)

In closing, even though I love all of the wigs I purchased during my haul, I like Tammy the best! I am ordering 3 more of her, just in case Hairsisters decides to jack up the prices, or Outre decides to stop making her all together. I think Tammy is going to be my Signature Hair for 2010!

*Pictures:

 

So Bellas, what do you think? Have you been thinking about getting into the wig game? Tell me what you think about "Tammy" and/or half wigs period, in the comment section. As always, I hope this review was informative and helpful.

Until Next Time,
Southern Bella

Hairsisters.com Review & WIG HAUL!!!

Happy New Year, Bellas!

2010 is here, and I started it off by receiving the four half-wigs I ordered from Hairsisters.com's After Christmas sale. Each half wig was $14.36 (I believe.) I ordered the wigs on 12/26/09 (Saturday) and received them this morning, 1/2/10 (Saturday). Even though there was a holiday in between (New Year's Day), it still only took a week for my order to arrive! On top of that, my order was complete and correct. I couldn't be more pleased! 

MY ADVICE--> If you are thinking about ordering from Hairsisters.com, I STRONGLY advise you to call them regularly! Call to make sure your items are in stock, call to make sure your order has shipped with the correct items in the box, call to get your tracking number, CALL, CALL, CALL! Hairsisters has a reputation for having bad customer service, losing orders, and taking FORVER to ship, so since this was my first time ordering from them, I took no chances with this order. I called constantly, and it paid off! Their prices are great, but you have to stay on top of your order.

Now, on to my haul....Here are the demo pics and the unit names:

OUTRE QUICK WEAVE SYNTHETIC HALF WIG YASMINE (color 2)

OUTRE QUICK WEAVE SYNTHETIC HALF WIG TAMMY (color 2)

SENSATIONNEL INSTANT WEAVE SYNTHETIC HALF WIG HZ-7055 (color 2)

SENSATIONNEL INSTANT WEAVE SYNTHETIC HALF WIG HZ-7047 (color 2)

I will be posting pictures and reviews of the half-wigs as I wear them, so keep on the look-out for those! I think I'm going to start off wearing Tammy next week.

Be Blessed Bellas, & Happy New Year!

-Southern Bella