So, I was contacted by the Design Essentials team to try their new hair are line that is specifically designed for curly hair (especially 2a-4c). Last night I decided to wash my hair and give one of the Design Essentials products a try - the Curl Lengthening Creme - which is designed for Type 4 hair.
In my effort to use the hairdryer less I've been exploring products that promise lengthening and non-shrinking capabilities. My 4a-4b hair shrinks up to 75% when wet. Using a blow dryer helps me to keep the appearance of length but it can also damage your hair.
I've had this creme used on me when I visited Kaneesha Martin at Mahogany Suites. She used a combination of Design Essentials products on me in order to achieve a specific look. I did the same. I used the Design Essentials Natural Shampoo & Conditioner. Both were so-so. I still love my One n' Only Argan Oil Restorative Mask as my conditioner, but Design Essentials conditioner is nice with a slight slip.
After washing and conditioning my hair I towel dried and started applying the Curl Lengthening Creme. The product has a great smell - kinda like cupcakes. The consistency is thick like pudding. It makes your hair real slippery. The directions say to do a two strand twist and sit under the dryer. Since I waited so late to do my hair, I applied the twists and used my hand dryer to set my hair. I didn't want to go to sleep with wet hair.
The next morning I was surprised to see that my twists were still hanging long. Usually when I do a wet-set my hair shrinks up to 50% of the length. I probably on had 10% shrinkage with the Curl Lengthening creme! SCORE! The picture above shows my hair after I removed my twists and manipulated my situtation. The product kinda hardens the hair so it's my advice that you use a little EVOO on your fingertips when removing your twists.
Here's a texture shot. The product kinda adds a silkiness to your hair. But there is also a RESIDUE on the hair - you can't see it but you can feel it. I don't know what it is - but whatever it is, the residue annoys me. However, I remember on the second day, the residue feeling goes away.
ABOUT THE PRODUCT: Infused with the highest quality natural butters and oils to maintain and style loose wavy to tightly coiled hair textures. For all curl types, from Wavy to Coily, 2A to 4C. For intense curl definition, excellent moisture with lasting sheen and hold. Now available at Sally Beauty, select Walgreen’s, salons and select beauty and barber supply stores - purchase HERE
