Why I love Tiger Protein Reconstructor so darn much

In my Banish Breakage post, I mentioned a little known product by the name of Tiger Protein Reconstuctor.  The moment I saw the price tag, I knew I had to have it.  To me the high end price probably was related the quality of product.  Although I own dozens of hair products. The only thing missing was a super protein leave-in spray.  I had no other choice but to get it.

When my package arrived, I immediately wanted to try it.  But not before I turned the bottle to check out the details.

Product Claims:  Covalent/Permanent Bonding of Protein into hair  + Rebuilds All Hair Types + Strength + Volume + Shine + Color Lock

Directions:  For Maintenance and Repair Treatment apply & massage into clean, damp hair dry & style as usual.

For Maximum Treatment: Apply & Massage into clean, damp hair. Cover with plastic cap & heat for 5 minutes. Remove plastic cap and style as usual.

I just love the fact that a spray leave in can be used as an intensive treatment by applying heat.  The ingredient list itself contains various types of proteins including soluable keratin, hydrolized wheat protein, hydrolized keratin, wheat amino acids, betaine (we mentioned the amazing benefits this ingredient in a previous post) and much, much more.

My first experience was on dry hair.  I misted a little on "dirty" hair to see if I would experience stiff, brittle strands.  Instead of brittle strands, I experienced stronger hair but without the feeling of protein overload.  Mind you, I did layer on some moisture on top of where I misted just to make sure nothing crazy happened.  But overall, I was very pleased.

The second experience was on wash day.   I washed and conditioned as usual then, during the rollerset I sprayed the length of my hair with the leave in.  Again, I experienced none of the "heavy protein"  feeling that I fear so much.  I'm guessing the size of the proteins are small enough to penetrate the strand instead of staying mainly on top of the hair.  Hence, my hair still remained it's old self, only stronger.

I felt pretty good about using Tiger Reconstructor as a final step during the roller set but this week, I had an ever better idea.  Remember my post on using different conditioners during the pre-poo based on how strong or weak the section is?  Well, this strengthening spray is perfect for such a scenario. Currently, I have healthy sections and I have weak sections.  Weak sections are those that, when manipulated, suffer casualties (broken strands).  Strong areas I can detangle without a care in the world.

During my pre-poo, whenever I came across a weak area, I sprayed a little bit of the reconstructor into my hand and distributed throughout the section.  The reason I misted into my hand was so I can be intentional about where the product goes. I also use less product this way.  After applying the reconstructor, I layered some moisturizing Kanechom and moved on to the next section.  Once done, I steamed then jumped into the shower to rinse.  My breakage in the weak areas reduced dramatically!  I'm beyond pleased with the results.  I love Babyface Pure Protein for an all over strengthening treatment but this gives me a laser-like focus to target my weakest areas.  I also remembered how Yahya mentioned targeting her ends with protein because to aid with retention.  I tried that over the weekend and today, my ends feel stronger as a result.

This type of product was exactly what was missing from my regimen.  Someone, like me, who over manipulates their hair needs a product that can help neutralize my potentially damaging actions.   How on earth did I go so long without it?

Are you getting the most from your coconut oil on wash day?

For most of us, wash day typically, begins with the pre-poo.  The pre-poo step is invaluable for me because it helps me to easily detangle and apply product to small sections.  To keep things interesting, I usually alternate between rich conditioners and coconut oil.  Conditioners and pre-poo treatments like Philip Kingsley help keep my hair moist. But when I'm looking for a little more strength, coconut oil is my go-to.

We love coconut oil because it has the ability absorb into the strand.  But after going back and re-reading my original post on the topic, I realized that I wasn't utilizing coconut oil to it's fullest potential. "According to the article referenced in the original post, "for full beneficial effect, oil penetration throughout the hair fiber cortex is desirable because the mechanical properties of the hair fiber is determined by the cortex." We're also reminded that when coconut oil is absorbed into the strand, it helps reduce the amount of swelling that occurs in the strand from water absorption. There are two important factors that contribute to the penetration of coconut oil into the hair.  Time + Heat.

According to the documented study materials, hair treated with coconut oil and heat looked the closest to untreated hair after 24 hours passed.  I assume this meant that most of the product was absorbed into the hair.  Then I reflected back to how I use coconut oil on wash day.  For the most part, I used it to aid in detangling. Sometimes I would allow the oil to sit on the hair, sometimes I didn't.  Rarely did I use heat to aid in penetration. Was I using coconut oil wrong?  Maybe not, but I do admit to not being intentional as I could be.  Meaning, if I needed the aid of the protein strengthening power of coconut oil, I should allow it to stay on my hair much longer. If I desired partial penetration plus a nice lubricant to protect my hair from the manipulation of wash day, maybe I use a little heat before washing it out and applying conditioner.  If my hair is breaking excessively, I'll leave it in much longer.

Whatever I decide, I know to be a bit more thoughtful from now on whenever I use coconut oil from this wash day going forward.

Philip Kingsley Elasticizer Extreme Review

Ever since I wrote this post about the best pre-poo product on the market, my mind hasn't been able to escape the desire to one day try Philip Kingsley Elasticizer Extreme for myself.

Finally, when I couldn't wait any longer, I reached out to the folks at Philip Kingsley to see if they would be willing to donate to the cause of a desperate blogger itching to get her hands on their beloved product.  Luckily for me, they granted my wish for a sample to experience.

A week later my package arrived.  On the box were some words that read:

"Intensive, super-moisturizing pre-shampoo treatment for over processed, porous hair types.  Adds elasticity, bounce and shine."

Once I opened the box, I held the 5 oz jar in my hands.  I recalled the time I used a full 16 oz bottle of Hello Hydration in one single pre-poo session and thought "this isn't much product at all.  Probably won't be enough for two full pre-poo treatments."  Little did I know how wrong I was....

After twisting off the top, I was able to visually assess the product. Virtually unscented.  Elasticizer extreme has a really thick consistency which kinda reminds me of moisturizing skin creams one would apply to their face before going to bed. Finally came the moment of truth.  I dipped my fingers lightly and began applying it to my dry hair.  Within a few moments, something magical began to happen.

The cream melted into my hair and turned into THEE BEST moisturizing pre-poo my hair ever had the pleasure of experiencing.  Whenever wash day arrives, I  normally ask myself one simple question. "Should I do a hydrating pre-poo or a strengthening one?"  If my hair is feeling extra dry, I opt of a hydrating pre-poo session. When my hair is breaking, I opt for coconut oil to help strengthen my hair.  Applying a moisturizing conditioner was my old strategy whenever I needed added moisture.  That method worked for a while but soon I wanted craved more.

Elasticizer Extreme is far superior to the old "rub conditioner into dry hair method."  Let me explain.  First, it has two types of oil high in it's ingredient list.  This means that my hair is getting both moisturizing and nourishing qualities.  Elasticizer is ultra moisturizing in my hair and, yet, it's really light and nourishing. Sometimes, I wonder if over saturating my hair with conditioner caused too much swelling in my hair strand.  This cream just melts into the hair unlike when I apply a conditioner as a pre-poo.  Because it's so easily absorbed, I can pre-poo early in the morning and go to the gym, run errands without having to hide the fact that my hair is saturated with conditioner or coconut oil.  I've actually been in public and had coconut oil run down my neck jheri curl style (sorry for the visual).

After leaving Elasticizer Extreme in for about an hour, I jumped in the shower and clarified using Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo.  I also found a sample packet of a Kerastase shampoo that I also used.  Both products together were highly cleansing.  I figured that there would be no signs of the pre-poo after my wash.  Boy was I wrong.  After rinsing, my hair was still nourished and highly moisturized. Oh, I forgot to mention that since Elasticizer Extreme is so highly moisturizing, I actually used waaaay less product than I normally do.  I barely made a dent in the 5 oz jar even thought I saturated my entire head. That sealed the deal for me.  Elasticizer is now officially my most favorite pre-poo treatment.  It's perfect for this time of year when our hair is battling with drier air and harsh winter winds.  Elasticizer is more than a pre-poo it's a way of restoring the hair on weekly basis.  Your hair deserves this.


Ingredients: Aqua (Water), Castor Seed Oil, Cetearyl Alcohol, Glycerin, Propylene Glycol, Olive Husk Oil, Ethyhexyl Dimenthyl PABA, Amodimethicone, Polyquaternium-37. Silicone Quaternium-18, Propylen Glycol Dicaprylate, Trideceth-12, Diazolidinyl Urea, Thrideceth-6, Propylparaben, Sodium Benzoate, Butylparaben, Ethylparaben, Isobutylparaben

{Best of the Best} Which Pre-Poo treatment is the ultimate?

I'm thinking about adding a decadent pre-poo treatment back into the wash day rotation. I've tried it all from oils, conditioners, butters and the like.  From time to time I like to have a special product handy for those moments when I want to enjoy a more intense pre-poo experience.

I'm currently debating between two products.  One I've tried (and loved) before, and a new one which I really want to try.  Let's break it down:

Philip Kinsley Elasticizer Extreme:

Elasticizer Extreme is targeted at a very specific hair type: extremely dry, porous and very thirsty! Specifically formulated for African-Caribbean or Caucasian hair that is exceptionally processed and damaged, this product provides instant replenishment, hydration and nourishment.Elasticizer Extreme has all the moisturizing ingredients of Elasticizer, with higher active doses of the components that can really make a difference to very dry, porous and thirsty hair.

OJON Restorative Treatment:

64% improvement in the condition of dry, damaged hair after just 1 treatment*.This clinically proven cult classic is fortified with nature's powerful golden elixir, a rare powerful natural ingredient that's rich in essential lipids similar to those found in healthy hair. After just one treatment, this rich, velvety balm dramatically helps restore vibrant health and high-gloss shine to even the most damaged hair. Hair is soft, silky and manageable. Formulated without Preservatives, Water, Artificial Color and Silicones

Both products are on the pricey end and make great claims on what they can do for the hair.  One has a consistency like that of a conditioner (Elasticizer) the other is like a rich, oil-based pomade.  Honestly I want both but I have to prioritize based on what my hair needs most.

I'm leaning towards OJON because I think it could add some much needed nourishment especially now that the weather is changing & the air is dryer.  I remember the days when I'd melt some OJON into my strands at the start of my wash day routine and would finish the day with well nourished hair.  I long for that experience again.

But, at the same time, I wonder what a product with a name like "Elasticizer Extreme" would feel like as a pre-poo.


Has anyone out there tried the Elasticizer?

{The Weekly Wash Project} Pre-poo scalp stimulation ritual

This week I realized that my scalp, which was once a major concern, has been giving me almost no trouble at all.  On the one hand, this is a good thing.  On the other, I've been ignoring my scalp.  Although I'm grateful to have one less concern to worry about, I also realize that, if left alone, eventually I will experience the side effects of not caring for my scalp.

So I decided to take matters into my own hands.  I opted to proactively add a permanent  step to my wash routine to care for my scalp.  Thinking ahead to fall season, I know that two scalp related concerns may surface.

1. Shedding
2. Flaking/peeling

For me, one solution to both of these problems came in the form of essential oils.  Back when my scalp issue was at its worst, I would use essential oils almost daily.  Now, I'm going to experiment with adding an essential & carrier oil scalp massage every week as a part of my pre-poo step.

Last night, before heading to bed, I mixed a little eucalyptus oil and coconut oil together.  I parted my hair in small sections and applied the blend directly to my scalp and hair.  Then I put on a plastic cap and called it a night. I can't tell you how much I love feeling a tingling sensation on my scalp.  Makes me feel like my hair follicles are coming alive!

Adding this step as a part of my weekly wash routine will give me several benefits.  Let's discuss:

+ Scalp stimulation to help promote growth.
+ Reduction in shedding.
+Less flaking/peeling
+Eucalyptus oil helps increase ceramide levels in the hair strand.

There's no reason for me not to do this.  Back in the day, when my scalp was misbehaving, I would use essential oils several times a week. As a side effect, I would often walk around smelling medicated.  My hope is that the weekly ritual will be enough to address any issue so I don't have to resort to doing it multiple times a week. This a proactive approach. Hopefully with this weekly scalp stimulation ritual (and by drinking lots of water), I'll be able to keep my scalp healthy throughout fall and winter.