I’ve introduced you all to a lot of products throughout CC Beauty Live, hair products in particular. We’ve done a few hair oils and what not, but I have to tell you that Free Your Mane really impressed me. I absolutely adore products that aim to be chemical free, and this company has made that its mission and keep things affordable at the same time. Haircare is something that should be one of the top priorities in your beauty routine next to skincare. Your hair needs a lot of love, and it can be difficult to keep it healthy when products are filled with sulfates and chemicals.

Free Your Mane sent me their Sulfate Free Shampoo ($16), Daily Detangling Conditioner ($16), and Baobab Brilliant Restorative Hair Oil ($25) with “ultra-moisturizing Argan Oil from Morocco, anti-oxidant rich Pomegranate Seed Oil and Sweet Almond Oil.” This hair oil is fantastic and has made my split ends almost disappear. The shampoo and conditioner are wonderful, and you can really tell a difference compared to products containing sulfates.

Watch below!

On my face: Painted Earth Pore Perfecting Primer, MAC Studiofix powder, NARS Multiple in Orgasm, Urban Decay Naked Palette in Buck, Sidecar, and Halfbaked, Maybelline One on One Mascara

On my nails: nada

In my hair: Victoria’s Secret So Sexy De-Tangler, Hana Shine Shield, Free Your Mane Baobab Brilliant Restorative Hair Oil

Got something you want me to cover? Post it in the comments below. And don’t forget to follow us on YouTube and check out my other videos right here! And for more beauty related tips, check out my website and follow me on Twitter!

As a native Minnesotan, the frigid cold of winter is nothing new to me. And while the snow might be pretty sometimes, dry skin and hair never is. Keeping your hair moisturized in the winter can be difficult, but this College Candy girl has worked at a hair salon for three years and is going to share her knowledge on the best products to help your hair weather out the winter on a college budget. (And that’s the end of my talking in third person…)

To have your best hair in the winter, experts say you have to start with the basics.

Starting with a moisturizing shampoo is crucial. And there are plenty of them out there that won’t cost you a fortune. My favorites:

Pantene has a great line called Winter Rescue Pro-V Moisture Renewal. Their shampoos and conditioners are cheap and great for all kinds of hair. And the deep conditioning treatment is on par with the kind you’d pay one month’s rent on in a salon, but costs mere dollars.

Herbal Essences also has a great moisturizing line called ‘Hydralicious’ and it has a variety of moisturizing formulas for all different kinds of hair. Whether you have crazy dry hair like I do, or fairly thin hair that needs to be conditioned but not weighed down, this line has you covered and moisturized.

Another great resource is the Moroccan Oil Restorative Hair Mask. It’s definitely on the pricier side, but works wonders, even on my crazy curls that tend to go uber dry in the wintertime. I put this on my hair and leave it on for ten minutes or so while in the shower, and then my hair regains all that coveted moisture it lost in the frozen tundra cold.

If  the winter has taken the shine and luster out of your hair, you may want to invest in John Freida’s Color Glazes. They can help keep hair looking shiny and healthy between colors. And if you’re one of those lucky gals that has a beautiful natural color (I hate you), John Frieda also makes a clear shine formula that will give you hair-commercial hair in no time.

Now, protecting your hair doesn’t stop in the shower. It’s what you do once you get out that really counts. Especially when it comes to drying that mop. And you must dry it. I repeat: you must dry your hair! Going outside with wet hair means frozen hair, which is a one-way ticket to Split-Endsville, no matter how many hair masks you use.

And since you’ll be using a hair dryer/flat iron daily (assuming you shower that often), you are going to need to protect those tresses from the heat. You definitely want to do this year round, but it’s especially important during the winter when everyone’s hair is generally drier. There are many different (and expensive) options for heat protectant products, but I really love TRESemme’s Heat Tamer spray that you can use before blow drying, flat ironing, or curling! It gets the job done and leaves your hair smelling deeeelish.

Regardless of which exact products you use, the important thing is to give your hair a bit of extra care and conditioning during the winter. Conditioned locks are not only healthier, but they’ll keep you looking classy, even on nights when you might not be acting so classy yourself!

Know of any great winter hair tips or products? Share with us!

Best. Hollywood couple. Ever?

Michael Buble is a pot-head.

Your daily delicious dose of RPatz.

The 10 worst drug store shampoos.

I knew Angelina wasn’t perfect.

Pick up a dude this Halloween weekend!

Although I have fallen in love with Lush’s unique products and packaging, it is the company’s goals and mission that keeps me coming back (and spending the extra cash).

They make it their business to use fresh ingredients, make the products by hand (how many places actually do this anymore?), not partake in animal testing, and protect the planet by making the products ‘green’ or vegetarian/vegan friendly. With minimal preservatives in their products, I have truly been refreshed by the products I have tried and I believe that using fresh products like seaweed and avocados has made a difference in the way these bath bombs and gels work.

Buying cosmetics is important to every girl, but in the current state of the economy, spending money on lavish products may seem silly. However, with a company promising to help the environment and its customers with the freshest and hand-made products, dishing out the extra few bucks is worth it… especially when it comes to these guys:

Shampoo Bars: This is probably my all-time favorite beauty invention. Instead of traditional liquid shampoos, these bars come in a circular form and all you have to do is lather the bar in between your hands and then apply it to your hair. Want direct contact? Just rub it on your scalp, and prepare for the suds to take over. Although each bar is 1.9 oz for $9.45 (a little steep, especially in this economy), I promise that they last over and over again (if you follow directions and don’t keep them submerged in water). According to Lush, these bars last “for around 80 washes, saving three plastic bottles along the way.”

My personal favorite is Karma Komba, which is supposed to help prevent tangles, but other bars work for other reasons like the Soak and Float which protects against dandruff and the Hard Solid Shampoo which is made for those that live in “hard water areas.” If you have to try one Lush product, I would recommend this more than anything else. Not into the bars? Lush also has liquid shampoos and conditioners available.

Bath Bombs: Lush is probably best known for its bath bombs, which come in two sizes (big and bigger). For example, there is the Big Blue bath bomb (6.3 oz) and the Big Big Blue bath bomb (28.2 oz). Either size is perfect to cut and divide up into a few baths, no need to use the whole bomb all at once. Once these amazing balls hit the water, your bath will explode into a sizzle of fizz and scent. Colorful and creative, each bomb has its own personality. With the Big Blue bath bomb, seaweed makes its way out of the ball and turns your bath into an instant ocean, while the Supernova bath bomb turns your bath into a party, complete with confetti.

Lush has a variety of bath bombs, so finding one that fits your mood or personality will be no problem. Unlike other bath bombs, Lush has a scent that will linger and stay long after the water is down the drain, and it will leave your skin feeling silky smooth beyond comparison to other similar products. Although these innovative bath time products make a dip in the tub extra fun, the only downside is that the seaweed, confetti, or other special ingredient may clog the drain.

Buttercreams: According to the Lush website, “Buttercreams are a luxurious blend of 15% soap – enough to get you clean but not make masses of lather – and 85% natural, skin-softening butters, glycerine, plant infusions and essential oils.” Although buttercreams can be used in the shower or the bath, it is best to use them cold. Put them in the fridge or the freezer and before getting in the shower or bath, cut a small chunk off and prepare yourself to be pampered. My only qualm with the buttercreams is that the scents like Heavenly Bodies, which is aimed at chocolate lovers, or Ring of Roses, which is covered in rose petals, doesn’t stay and the creamy, softness promised rubs off fast.

And these products are just a few of the extensive Lush product line. Want the most unforgettable bath that will actually keep its bubbles and scent an hour into it? Go for a Bubble Bar. Sick of the same old perfume? Try one of the company’s solid perfumes, which come in lip balm type pots. Guys, want to plan a special evening for your girlfriend? Get a massage bar and give her the spa treatment yourself. From body lotions to shaving creams to solid soaps, there is something for everybody. And with vibrant colors and clever names, shopping at Lush (whether in one of its stores or online)  will be a unique cosmetics shopping experience.

Move over Bath and Body Works, Lush is definitely here to stay!

Shockingly, neither of these are good looks.

But what am I supposed to do? If I let my hair go naturally, it blows up Monica-Gellar-goes-to-Hawaii-style. But if I add product, my hair becomes a slick, oily mess.  One summer problem would be enough; dealing with both of these can be tricky.  Luckily, I’ve devoted lots of time to fixing this problem before the heat sets in this summer and I’ve found some products that can help tame these heinous summer looks.

Control the Oil:

Shampoo: Oily hair is actually caused by an oily scalp.  Your scalp produces sebum (oil) and it transfers to your locks.  So when you are looking for a shampoo to combat the oil, you want one that will control the root of the problem.  Shampoos labeled “Sebo-control” are designed to remove the oil from your scalp, like this shampoo from L’Oreal. After lather/rinse/repeating with it, I’ve noticed that the grease stays away longer, especially when hair is straight.

To Condition or Not to Condition: If your hair is only mildly oily and you want to condition, make sure you don’t condition the roots of your hair.  If your hair is especially oily, condition only twice a week and just apply a small amount of conditioner to the ends.

Other Oil Control Tips: Don’t excessively brush your hair; it encourages oil.  Keep your hair pulled back from your face and away from makeup.  If you need some serious oil relief, Jonathon makes a dry shampoo powder that can be used in between washes or on-the go. I’m sure it works great…but then again, so does baby powder.

Combat summer’s other problem: Control the Frizz:

Use a small amount of hair serum on your hair when it is still wet; try Paul Mitchell’s Super Skinny Hair Serum.  It will keep the frizz to a minimum and add a healthy shine, not oil.  For colored hair try Okara Protect Color Serum.  This can be applied in a small amount to dry hair to protect your color and control the frizz.  For a cheap alternative you can also try Suave’s Anti-frizz cream which happens to smell quite delicious.

Other Tips for Frizz-Control: Mousse and Hair Spray can help control frizz but you don’t want to overload your hair and create a build-up (which would add to the summer grease problem!). The serums and cream above are light and effective and thus a better alternative to piling on other products.

Best of luck with the summer hair care qualms!

Even your lips can Go Green.

Tips for bullsh*tting an essay so you can go out and still pass that class.

Britney’s looking goooood on the cover of Rolling Stone.

Shampoo can clean more than just hair.

The most expensive college dorms (and they probably still suck).

The ins and outs of walking in heels.

Gratuitous hottie link. We couldn’t help it.

The Pink Sari Gang – standing up for women’s rights.

The best site for fashionistas on a budget. (That’s us!)

Tom and Katie have only been married for 2 years?

Angelina is looking freakishly plastic in London.

Check out Justin Bobby’s band on MySpace.

Out of the limelight and into the sunlight: Sarah Palin sunbathing.

Wacko sports traditions!

The perils of fashionable footwear.

Some really creative answers to the question, “What have you been smoking?”

Instant bug killer and other unconventional uses for your shampoo.

A cup size bigger for just $19.99?

Scarlett claws back at Lindsay.

Gag gifts for the holidays!

It happens—you’re out to dinner (most likely with someone you find attractive), you order some sweet-potato fries, and suddenly the glob of grease that was on its way to your mouth is blossoming all over your new white sweater/ blouse/ pants/ tank/ beautiful item of clothing. You might have to keep that glob around for the night (and swear to god that it is the only thing attractive boy is looking at), but you can get it out. Yes, even without mom’s help.

The first rule of thumb for getting rid of (embarassing) grease stains is more of a don’t than a do: don’t toss that sucker in the laundry basket when you get home and “deal with it later.” Detergent and water will NOT remove grease stains, so you’re going to have to get tough.

Now onto the do…

Perhaps the easiest thing to try is a stain-removal spray. You can find them in any store right by the detergents, and if you spray them on stains pre-wash and rub them in, they’re supposed to take any spots right out. I say “supposed to” because my spray is a little full of itself and doesn’t work quite as advertised.

If that doesn’t work, this page will totally bail you out. This person has compiled dozens of tips featuring numerous household items that will likely be able to save you in a pinch.

Most successful for me have been the following:

1. Dishwashing liquid. I have the foam-squirt kind of Dawn rather than the straight-up liquid form, but it still works like a charm. If you also have the squirt kind, pump the handle a couple of times and then rub the foam into the stains. If you have the liquid, pour a penny-sized amount on each stain. Press it in (it’s not necessary to rub too much), let it sit for about 15 minutes, and then wash as normal.

2. Baking soda. This won’t take out a stain by itself, but rubbing some baking soda into a glob of grease will absorb enough to make the stain manageable. You’ll probably need to couple it with something else, though, so don’t rely purely on baking soda to suck away all the grease.

3. Shampoo. I cannot figure out why this works, but it does. Pour a penny-sized amount of shampoo on each grease stain, and rub it over and into the stain. Let this sit for about 10 minutes, and then wash as normal. This can be coupled with other grease treatments, but it worked like a charm by itself for me.

A few more tips:

- Don’t wait around. You can still probably remove the stains if they’ve been there for weeks (or yikes, months), but it’ll be more of a challenge. As we all know from dropping toothpaste on our clothes and wiping it off right away, it’s easy to get a stain out immediately but hard to get it out as time goes on.

- Use hot water. Yes, it’s true that hot and cold water clean the same as far as washing your hands goes—and probably for most other things, too. But hot water kick-starts the detergent’s cleaning action, so you’ll want to use it when you’re throwing in a load that has grease stains.

- It’s not the end of the world. If you can’t get a stain out yourself, perhaps a dry cleaner or another cleaning specialist can. Or try calling up your grandmother—she’s probably full of old wives’ tales that just might work. And remember—it’s just a stain. If the piece of clothing is really a goner, maybe you can recycle it by sewing parts into a purse or using it to patch up an old pair of jeans.

All, of course, which I will teach you…

[Image courtesy of laundrylocker.com.]

Miley’s not dead!!! YAY!

Brad Pitt channeling Charlie Chaplin!

Men are taking advantage of Paris Hilton!

What’s the right bang?

What’s gonna change now that change has come?

Baby Simpson-Wentz tricks Mommy!

Wanna roll in the benjamins? Don’t become a professor!

Shampoo gone bad? It’s still useful…

The world’s youngest king…

…and hottest Prime Minister

Man eaten alive by tigers…yikes!

Jamie-Lynn Sigler hearts Turtle? Yes, it’s true.

How sick are you of Billy Mays?

But, when said peasants actually look at the Fashion Gods’ pictures, they are whole-heartedly disappointed. All too often, to these arbiters of taste, “curly” means “straight with a very slight artificial wave about half-way down.” Take, for instance, these “natural-looking curls:”

And the peasants cry.

That hair is beautiful, but realistic? Hell no.

But this year, this year, goddammit, it supposedly the year of the curl. Celebrities are donning curls, stylists are throwing away the irons and magazines are telling us to “embrace our natural texture.” Too bad, for many of us, that is far easier said than done.

For a lot of us curlies, our hair has always been the bane of our existence (unless we were around in the 80′s). The 90′ s and most of the 00′s have told us that if our hair is “big,” it’s dated, or out of fashion. Curls are okay…as long as they’re flat. Which, quite frankly, natural curls are not. So, we attempt to flatten and – bottles of gel later – we don’t look fashionable; we look like drowned rats.

But, it is the year of the curl and I am going to let my curls shine, damnit. I am going embrace my natural hair and become one with the wave. As should you.

Don’t know how to tame that mane? Here are a few easy tips for the basic hair types:

Loose, Heavy Curls:

Of the curly types (excluding wavy), this is probably the easiest to deal with. Your biggest help here is a leave-in conditioner and, on humid and rainy days, a little bit of hair creme. Keep it simple and let those lovely locks shine.

Tight Curls

I would KILL for this hair. This is my personal favorite of all the curly types. But I guess the grass is always greener.

Kinky hair (really, really tight curls) is surprisingly delicate. Spritz it through with a light-hold curly spray and then do not touch it. The more you play with it, the more you can damage it. Another tip to keeping this hair healthy: shampoo as infrequently as possible.

Ringlets

Adorable. To keep from looking like Shirley Temple, however, make sure you get a nice adult, up-to-date haircut. Use a light curling mouse to set the curl for the day and you are good to go.

Combination Curls

Most of your hair is out of control curly, but some of it is just wavy (or even straight), and all of it is wirey.

This is what I have. The miracle secret I found is a curl mousse called Got2B Kinky. Seriously. It keeps it from frizzing and it makes it all more uniform, without changing your actual texture. I also recommend cutting serious layers into your hair to avoid the evil, Triangle Head.

Fine Curls

Pump up the volume of your angel-fine curly hair with a volume-specific mousse. Scrunch a little, grabbing the hair from the bottom and gently pressing it up. And always airdry–you don’t want to scatter (and ruin!) your curls with a huge blast of air.

And remember, for all curly hair, shampoo as little as possible (once or twice a week). Condition every other day. And never, EVER try to brush it. Trust me.

[Images courtesy of www.consumer.schwarzkopf.com, www.freshlookhair.com, www.naturallycurly.com]