Oh how I have missed blogging so much!!
Well, I intended on blogging a lot more over the winter break, but someone broke my camera and the flash has not been the same since. So sorry for the delay! However, I managed to snap a few pictures in between time on my Iamminglee hair and to give you all my final review! Just to refresh you, I purchased the Indian hair from Ming Lee which was on sale for Black Friday. She no longer carries this hair, but she does have Brazilian hair. To see prices you can visit her website. Remember, this review is my personal experience with the hair as well as my personal maintenance. Your experience may vary. Any direct questions about the Brazilian hair and prices can be directed to Ming Lee.
Shedding:
I think this was the most asked question I've had about the hair. I purchased two 16 inches and one 18 inch. Because hair is hair, it would be a lie to say that it didn't shed. The 18" shed in the neck area and would get tangled occassionally. To combat this, I always keep a paddle brush in my purse. I also noticed that Ming posted a picture on Instagram of "Fray Check" which is sold at Walgreens which I will be picking up for my next install. I didn't seal the hair before and I wish I would have. Lesson learned, when purchasing virgin hair from any company, always seal the wefts, even if they are already sealed. Protect your investment from the environment as much as you can.
Texture:
The hair in its natural state is still wavy. To maintain the texture and feel of the hair, I used Organix deep conditioner as well as the Argan oil which make the hair come back to life EVERY time! There is no substitute available to consumers that make it feel smooth and silky. I promise you, I have tried everything from high end Design Essentials to low end Motions. Nothing works better. The Argan oil revitalizes the hair and make it extremely easy to style. I suggest applying it directly after you dry it from cleaning as well as before styling.
How it felt after applying heat:
This was a frequent question as well. I had to issues with the hair when I would flat iron or curl it. I ALWAYS protect the hair with a heat protectant. I sprayed Tresemme's heat protectant all over the hair, let it dry for a few minutes then I would style it. Combining it with the Argan oil will allow the hair to glide through the iron nice and smooth. Another protective styling technique is to use flexirods. You can save the hair from heat damage and shedding this way as well.
How the hair dealt with color:
I recently decided to lighten the hair (gradually) for spring. I bleached the hair and added a golden blonde dye to it. I am not a professional but I have ombred hair before and it turned out fine. This was the case with this hair as well. I followed the steps on the box accordingly, but I deep conditioned the hair after to bring life back to it. I can't lie though, I loved the natural hair color. It was a very dark brown, almost black. I'm going to dye it back to its original color(professionally this time). Here are a few pictures of my new hair color:
Blendability:
Good hair should blend effortlessly. I had no issues blending the hair at all. I used a Chi flat iron to blend my natural hair with the weave. Here's a picture:
Overall Opinion
I have had all types of hair, from Sassy Mitchell to Indian Hair Company and this is my favorite. I have received the most compliments on this hair for it looking so "natural", and to me, that's how weave should look. It should blend in with your hair, be able to stand unprofessionally coloring (lol), and last a long time! Over the past 3 months I have done just about every ungodly thing you could do to this hair. I've slept without a bonnet, I've gone to sleep with wet hair, and I put way to much heat on it at one point. It still bounces back and was worth every penny. Below is a compilation of different looks that I have worn with the hair. I hope you enjoyed the review and it was informative. If you have any questions regarding my experience, feel free to comment below.
XOXO,
Breezy