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Beauty Lifestyle Motherhood

What did Postpartum do to my hair?

Posted on 06/20/2019

As I see the hair falling out in chunks in the shower I can’t help but wonder if there is a bald spot somewhere invisible to my eyes. There is no way that I am losing so much hair and my scalp is looking full and healthy. These are some of the thoughts that cross my stressful and sleepless mind that has been dealing with postpartum hair loss at exactly four months after my C-section. I have gone through this process before but for some odd reason this time around seems like it’s a lot more than the last time. The panic has set in and searching for the cause of postpartum hair loss on google has once again started as if this is my first rodeo.

Thankfully I have found some answers and some rituals that I have been trying now for almost one month and I am happy to announce that IT WORKS. But first, let me start by saying that postpartum hair loss is very real and it can be scary. The good news is that it is not permanent and the hair will grow back.

I have to admit that it can be scary watching all the hair fall out, after each stroke of brush and each shower and I know that this is something a lot of us moms go through and it can be different with each pregnancy. But after my research I found out that it is normal to lose hair especially around the hairlines and temples. I was starting to feel like my forehead was getting bigger every day and not in a cute way.

I have very long hair and with that comes the hair bands and the hair clips. I used to pull my hair back to either a ponytail or a tight up-do, which I later found out can be very stressful to my hair.

Throughout my research I learned to be gentle to my hair especially during the process of shedding which I will get into more detail later. First and foremost stop putting hair in a ponytail or pulling it back or up. Be gentle with your hair and don’t put stress on your hair by pulling it up or to a side. I started braiding my hair more to relax the roots and my scalp. Doing a soft braid was life changing in this journey to a healthier hair.  

Let’s talk about why we go through postpartum hair loss and what causes this process to moms a few months after we give birth. I found out that it is normal to lose hair after birth, and the shedding can continue up to six to 12 months… yikes!

It is due to our body’s estragon levels. Did you know that 80 to 95% of our hair is in the growing phase? Which means the rest of our hair is in the resting phase. After hair is in the resting phase for some time it falls out. On a regular day we lose about 80 to 100 strands of hair a day. That seems a bit much but that’s normal.

But, when we are pregnant our estrogen levels rise and it prolongs the growing phase of our hair, which means fuller, thicker, shinier locks, and less hair falling out. My hair was fierce during pregnancy. It had a body of its own and I loved it. So what happens to those beautiful luxurious locks of hair after giving birth? Well, I hate to break it to you but our estrogen levels drop and that causes more of our hair going into the resting phase which means losing a lot more hair and since we had not lost much hair in the last nine months it is more noticeable to us.

No need to panic, this will only last six to 12 months. During this time try to play with a new hair-do and use different texturizing hair products. I talk about different hair products on my feed @Shibyshila a lot and a couple of my favorites are:

The One by Fredrick Fekkai

Oribe Maxmista Thickening Spray (My fave)

Oribe Texturizing hair spray

Paul Mitchell Extra-body sculpting foam

It’s A 10 Miracle Blowdry Volumizer

In order to maintain the health of your hair, make sure you are taking your daily multi-vitamins and I also recommend adding Biotin to your daily supplement intake.

I have also gone back to my roots and brought back a few tricks to help my hair relax and grow healthier, and I am so excited to share it with you.

Postpartum hair loss is something that can be mitigated with a little bit of a ritual that you can follow and stimulate more hair growth and help more hair follicles hold on to hair. It’s made with three simple ingredients that you can get from any health food store or order from Amazon like I did.

  • First ingredient: Caster Oil. It has been known for having amazing skin and hair benefits. Use it as your hair oil to stimulate hair growth. (5 tablespoons)
  • Second ingredient: Avocado or coconut oil (5 tablespoons)
  • Third ingredients: Rosemary oil (20 drops)

Mix all three and heat it in the microwave for 15-20 seconds and massage it into your hair. Massage your scalp all over. By massaging the oil into your hair you are stimulating the hair follicles. Once you are done massaging it into the scalp, massage the rest of the oil into the rest of your hair. Braid your hair or put your hair in a soft bun and let it stay overnight. Make sure you leave a towel on your pillow to protect your pillow from all of the oil. Do this once or twice a week and you will see the results of healthier, shiner and thicker hair within a few weeks.

Your hair represents you. Be gentle to it and give it the hydration it needs to grow healthy and beautiful as it is meant to be.

Beauty Lifestyle

Cooluli made me do it

Posted on 06/04/2019

As a child, I remember seeing random skincare in the fridge next to a fruit bar or juice box. I remember one time I opened one thinking t was some kind of fancy whip-cream because it said “made in Paris” so I tried eating it. Sure enough, it was not that buttery sugary cream my tastebuds were screaming for.

I asked my Grandmother what is this tasteless cream and why are you eating this chemical tasting thing. She replied “it keeps me looking young from inside out so I can keep up with you” with a big beautiful smile and started running after me. At the time, of course, I took it as a joke and didn’t pay much attention to it until I got older.

Breast Milk: I came across Cooluli after the birth of my second lad. I was desperate to find something to keep my breastmilk cold without having to go up and down the stairs. Trust me it can get tiring especially during those early morning hours when you feel like a zombie, and walking two steps can feel like an out-of-body experience and not in a good way.

Skincare: I was instantly drawn to Cooluli not only because it served a purpose but also because it looked aesthetically perfect. There are a variety of sizes with different color combinations. I fell in love with Cooluli Infinity 10L white and gold accent colors. I had to have two. In my head, I was already organizing my breastmilk in one and my skincare in the other. At this point, it’s the little things that bring joy to my life after my kids and hubby of course.

I got both white and gold and couldn’t be happier. It saves me so much energy. Having it at arm’s reach in the middle of the night to put the breastmilk pumped from this exhausted organic milk maker is a great success.

I used the second Cooluli Infinity 10L for my favorite skincare and jade roller. If you have not tried using cold skincare on your face first thing in the morning or right before bedtime, you are missing out. There is no other feeling like it. What my grandmother said to me when I was a child, now totally makes sense.

If you are using Natural Skincare Products, it is been recommended by dermatologists to keep them refrigerated. Preservative-free, natural skincare products will have great benefits if stored in a fridge as it can help ward off bacteria and prolong the shelf life.

Keeping your skincare refrigerated can also deliver a cooling effect that can help constrict blood vessels which can help with reducing under eye bags, calming inflammation and tightening the look of the pores. It is especially beneficial for those with blotchy, sensitive or red skin (rosacea or erythema) as it can work wonders in calming the inflamed skin almost instantly.

A refrigerated eye cream can also take away the puffiness and boost circulation to the skin! The cool temperature can typically help in reducing puffiness under the eyes and even enhance the potency and effectiveness of the product.

It’s not necessary to store your skincare products in the fridge unless you’ve been directed on the label. However, if you want that cooling sensation and spa treatment feeling I would recommend it. Just remember as a rule of thumb to keep all of your skincare products away from direct sunlight and in a cool dry area.

Hope this article was helpful. If you have any questions feel free to message me.

xoxo

Beauty Lifestyle

Taïla

Posted on 05/17/2019

Three months postpartum and I can feel my skin is in need of serious help. I keep hoping for that radiant glow of pregnancy to reappear while looking into the mirror. But there is no sign of it coming back unless I am ready to have another baby and at this point that is NOT an option my friends. I started my research about skincare and how to get at least a semi- glow back to my skin. After much research and lots of trial and error, I came across Taïla.

Taïla is known to use vital nutrient to revive and restore skin radiance. I tried three of their products and started seeing the results within weeks. The results were so great that I did a giveaway and shared the love with other mommies who were going through the same skin drama.

Here are the three products I used by Taïla

One of the products is MUHKA Botanical Cleanser. A double-cleansing clarifying oil that restores skin’s natural moisture barrier while effectively removing all traces of makeup and impurities. I love that it is a non-greasy oil, filled with active nutrients. It turns into a milky cleanser when you add water. There is no need to use additional products such as an eye makeup remover or exfoliator to clean the skin afterward.

INGREDIENTS: Sesame Seed Oil, Castor Oil, Papaya Seed Oil, Polyglyceryl4 Laurate, Oleic/Linoleic/Linolenic Polyglycerides, Lavender Oil, Turmeric
Oil*, Vitamin E Oil
*Ingredients from Organic Farming

My next favorite is Taïla PRANA Face Oil. A multi-correctional serum that delivers immediate hydration to help minimize fine lines,
visibly firm skin and diminish dark spots. This is a magic potion that is made of all natural products such as powerful plant extracts to accelerate the skin’s renewal process and also to help add moisture and strengthen the skin

INGREDIENTS: Argan Oil, Sweet Almond Oil Sesame Seed Oil, Brahmi Extract, Rose Hip Seed Oil, Sandalwood Oil, Amla Extract, Tulsi Oil, Neem
Oil, Ylang Ylang Oil, Vitamin E, Geranium Oil
*Ingredients from Organic Farming

Last but not least the Taïla VAYU Illuminating Toning Mist. It is a must-have. An all-natural, lightweight moisturizing mist, that immerses skin with
hydrating nutrients to balance, restore, and soothe. A precious and powerful hydrosol, it provides a protective barrier to fend off free radicals and help restore environmental damage. It makes the skin feeling refreshed and instantly energized. I keep mine in a Cooluli fridge to stay cool and use it before bedtime and first thing in the morning.

INGREDIENTS : Tulsi Water, Rosa Water, Glycerine, Cucumber Fruit extract*, Water,
Leuconostoc, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf, Sorbus Aucuparia Fruit Ferment Filtrate

Lifestyle Motherhood Product Review

NUNA COVE Aire

Posted on 04/27/2019

Finding the right crib can be challenging especially if looking for something that you can easily travel with. Nuna Cove Aire, is a beautifully designed travel crib with child safety in mind.

I love the napper feature of Aire. The napper features a three-point harness and customizable recline for heightened comfort, and a zip-off top provides easy access to the playspace. The reclining feature is very helpful if your baby has reflux. I put my baby in for his nap after his feed, which helps with his reflux.

I feel safe knowing that the material and the mattress are breathable and baby will be sleeping in a safe environment. The crib sheet that comes with the cove is also organic which gives them a brownie point and I did not expect any less from Nuna. The advanced designed material allows air flow from every angle, while the ventilated mesh mattress alleviates both heat and humidity. I am planning on using the Nuna Cove as my baby’s crib until he is ready to transition into his bed.

One last thing I want to point out is how easy it is to set up. The last thing you want to do after a long day in the car or plane is fighting with your crib or hubby/wifey to get it set up. Trust me…It only takes two minutes to assemble and disassemble.

We absolutely love our NUNA Cove Aire, and highly recommend it for your new bundle of joy.

Product info:

Ages 0–3 years Napper and bassinet for use up to 15 lb.; playspace for use up to 30 lb. or 35″30″ x 40″ x 24.5″; 34.5″ x 14.5″ x 10″ folded17.2 lb. Includes quilted mattress, organic-cotton fitted sheet and carry bag. Water-resistant, durable fabric resists stains, drips and tearsFabric/mesh/aluminium.

Beauty Lifestyle

BirchBox in bloom

Posted on 04/26/2019

I have been a member of Birchbox for years. I used to have mixed feeling about my subscription because I used to really get mad when the box was filled with very small sized items and a lot of small perfume samples. But times have changed so has Birchbox.

The limited edition Birchbox bloom has truly become my favorite box ever! The bloom box is filled with full-size beauty items as promised to help aid me perfectly into spring.

From Benefit cosmetics, I received one of my favorite highlighters “dandelion twinkle powder highlighter” ($30 retail) which goes on smooth and makes my cheeks shine like a diamond.

One of my other favorite products in the bloom box is the FULL size rejuvenating face oil by one and only BABOR ($69 retail). You have to try this oil, it’s an experience you do not want to miss. It restores the lipid balance (skin’s natural fat that keeps everything up and looking young) with rose extract and macadamia nut oil that leaves my skin more radiant than ever.

The one product that had me jumping in joy right after I put down my BABOR oil was the full-size Wanderess eyeshadow pallet by Wander Beauty ($25 retail). The pallet holds six beautifully saturated shades that are crease-proof! The colors are so beautiful, they are a reminder of the garden I visited in the Amalfi Coast of Italy. Simply breathtaking.

Birchbox even surprised me with a BONUS product. The desert cactus by Votivo which smells divine. As a candle hoarder, this will go right by my nightstand.

I love everything in this box and I have already started using them all. Kiehl’s cleansing face wash ($30 retail) is one I am very familiar with and use religiously. Stila Cosmetic’s convertible color in Petunia ($25 retail) is such a pretty color for spring and summer. I use it on my cheeks and lips. Herbivore Botanicals Jasmine body oil ($44 retail), and Derma-E Rose cleansing oil ($17.99 retail) were the items I was not familiar with but I am so glad they were in my box. Last but not least, Georgette Klinger Primrose eye cream ($32 retail)… I can not say enough about this creamy hydrating eye cream. It is made from evening primrose oil. It is perfection.

Overall, I am very happy with my Birchbox bloom as you can tell, and would recommend it to all you, my friends. You will not regret. This would also make a perfect mother’s day gift to your beloved or best friend.

xoxo

Beauty Lifestyle Motherhood

Belli Beauty Skincare

Posted on 04/15/2019

Throughout my second pregnancy I’ve tried the same skin regiment to prevent stretch marks with the same body oils & lotions as my first pregnancy because they worked for me. I have zero stretch-marks from the first pregnancy (Thank goodness).

But during my second pregnancy I came across Belli Beauty Skincare at my OB’s office. It came highly recommended, so I gave it a try. I tried the “Lavender infused Elasticity Belly Oil” and it was love at first sight. It’s a thick oil that goes on smoothly but does not leave any oily traces behind leaving my shirts clean looking not oily and worn out. But it’s the scent of lavender that has me even more hooked on this oil. Imagine you are running in the field of freshly bloomed lavender farm in the french country. It’s amazing… It’s very calming and I feel like the oil in combination with the lavender also calms the baby down during those belly kickboxing nights. Ya’ll know what I mean.

I used the “Elasticity Oil” in combinations with the “Stretch Mark Cream” to keep my skin hydrated and moist during the cold, and dry weather of fall. So far it has worked with the elasticity of my every-growing belly with zero stretch-marks.

I am totally hooked on Belli Beauty Skincare everything. From the oil to the eye serum, face wash and everything else they make. I will continue using them pregnant or not.

Lifestyle Product Review

DockaTot

Posted on 04/04/2019

I remember the first time I saw DockATot, it was love at first sight. I wasn’t sure if it was a bed or a lounger I just knew that I wanted it for my baby. Mind you I wasn’t even pregnant yet. But I did have a friend whose baby shower was approaching fast. If it was good enough for me, it definitely was good enough for my good friend’s baby. I purchased it right away, and couldn’t wait to hear her thoughts on the DockATot once she started using it.

My friend was grateful and couldn’t stop thanking me for getting such an amazing gift. It turns out the DockATot can be used as a bed to cuddle my baby while lying down in my bed, also a baby lounger, and a play-bundle. This incredible multi-functional product can be used for all those activities and more. In addition, I get to choose from dozens of beautiful pattern to match my home decor.

When we were expecting my second son, towards the end of pregnancy I made sure there is a DockATot ready for the baby when we got home. My little one and I loved it from day one, as did my toddler who at times would lie in it lounging and refusing to share. I think I may need to get a Delux for him.

I have learned that DockATot is a perfect lounger, it creates a snug and soothing environment for my little one and apparently my toddler too. It makes me want to ask DockATot to make it in adult size too, please!

Wearing: Nested Bean

I have tried a couple of other loungers including Mumbelli, Snuggle Me Organics, and Smilo. They each are beautiful in their own way and offer different needs for a baby and mom.

Hudson in Snuggle Me Organics
Matching clothes: KyteBaby
Mat: Yay Mats

It all depends on what you are looking for in a lounger. You may find something helpful in each one depending on the climate, comfort level, and the reason for use.

Top: MomBellie
Bottom: Smilo Lounger

Here are a couple of reasons why I would choose DockATot for everyday use and travel. It is designed to reinvent the comfort level of the mommy’s womb for the baby. It provides a comfortable microclimate. It facilitates co-sleeping. It helps with early-stage tummy time. It can be used as a play area by adding the arch and a few cute hanging toys made by DockATot. And lastly, it looks great. I have also heard that it can help with crib transition Once I am at that stage I will update my blog with my experience of transitioning him to the crib.

Lifestyle Product Review

mamaRoo by 4moms

Posted on 03/23/2019

Let me start by saying that I am a big fan of everything 4moms. I was attracted to the look and design of mamaRoo at first glance not knowing what exactly it offered my little one. 28 months ago I purchased my first 4moms product and that happened to be the mamaRoo. I purchased the basic one first, didn’t have the bells and whistles it offers now with mamaRoo4 and yet my now toddler loved it and enjoyed being in it from day one when we got home from the hospital.

There was no question in my mind two and half years later, that I needed another mamaRoo4 for my now two months old baby. He has been enjoying his mamaRoo4since he was released from the NICU. It makes me so happy to see that there is a product made perfectly for babies who are in need of different motions, sound, and posture.

Now that I told you a little bit of why I chose mamaRoo4, let me tell you why you need this advanced bouncer if you are expecting or have a newborn at home.

mamaRoo4 is basically a bouncer that can either sway side to side or up and down to soothe your baby to mimic the movements you would do to comfort your baby while he/she is crying hysterically. Sound familiar? Well, now we have the mamaRoo doing it for us. Leaving us plenty of time to do other things, like maybe take a shower! haha if you are a new mom you know what I mean. We are very limited on time to take care of ourselves when there is a new little one at home. Whether you believe it or not you are going to be exhausted, sleep deprived and in love all at once. Having this beautiful bouncer help with providing a little “me time” is pretty ah-mazing.

The new mamaRoo4 has five unique motions and five-speed options for a total of 25 different combinations. Trust me when I say, you will find a motion that will soothe your baby. It also comes with four different soothing sounds and if your baby doesn’t like any of them you can connect your phone or any MP3 player and play whatever you like. I even play dance songs for both boys and have my toddler teach my little one how to dance.

My little one loves the mobile as my first child did. He stares at it and coo’s and smiles, I have even caught him reaching for them. I use the black and white side of the mobile accessories for the first three months because babies only see in black and white for those months and flip them over to the colorful side right after. He gets so excited when I put him in there, kicking his cute legs and smiling endlessly and when he gets tired he falls asleep like an angel. (Happy baby = Happy mama)

Kyte baby footie in mustard

There are three different fabric choices, I chose the grey classic seats because it matches my home decor. I already know it is going to help my baby, why not choose a color that matches the interior. It also comes with a dark grey, multi, and classic black. Don’t forgot, for your newborn you need the newborn inset to keep them more snuggled up.

As for the assembly, it is pretty easy to assemble. I am not great at putting things together, but it took me 7 minutes to assemble this beauty.

Hope this helps you with your decision on making your choice for your baby bouncer. This will make a great gift for a loved one who is expecting. They will be forever in your debt for giving them such an amazing gift that will provide a little time for the mama to get some much-needed rest.

If you have any questions please feel free to drop me a comment or email me. I will be happy to answer.

xoxo


4moms mamaRoo Grey Classic baby swing

The 4moms mamaRoo infant seat bounces up and down and sways from side to side, just lik… [More]

Price: $239.99
Buy Now

Lifestyle Motherhood

Halo DreamNest

Posted on 03/09/2019

HALO™ DreamNest™ open air sleep system

If you are looking for a safe sleeping gear for your baby, I highly recommend Halo DreamNest.

I love this DreamNest, the great thing about it is that you can use it in three different modes: a rocking bassinet, a portable crib or a playard for the little one, and a standalone cot. The feature of having mesh construction for breathability, is superb. I also love that I can rock my baby gently to sleep while I am seating on the sofa or the dinning table. It is light enough that I can move it from one side of the room to another without any fuss but at the same time secure enough to be able to leave the baby seat or sleep while I am doing other things around the house.

Personally I love everything about HALO because of the story behind the creation of HALO. If you are not familiar with the story I highly reccomend you giving it a read by cliking the link.

This DreamNest, is a great bang for your bucks as well. I highly recommend any mommy with a child under one year old and looking to purchase a Bassinet to consider this. Let me tell you why….

Robe: PinkBlush Maternity

DreamNest: Rocking Stage

The fact that I can use the DreamNest in three stages is priceless. I myself was looking for a bassinet that I can easily rock my baby back to sleep and this Halo provides a very smooth rocking feature which makes it very easy especially in the middle of the night when I am half asleep. For this stage baby must be less than 15 pounds. If the baby can pull himself up to crawling position or roll over, the bassinet is a not a good idea.

Hudson is wearing his HALO Sleepsac and loving it

The Mattress/Cot

The mattress is made of 100% cotton muslin breathable mesh with a cotton border. It is comfortable for the baby and very supportive. It is easily removal and washable. The mattress turns into a cot by attaching the four legs to the bottom of it and you can set it outside of the bassinet serving as a cot.

DreamNest: Sway/Rocking Bassinet

I love this feature on the DreamNest. I can easily rock the bassinet swaying my baby gently to sleep via the foot pedals while tackling other things with my toddler.

Portable Playard that can easily turn into a crib

At this stage, I can use the Halo as a portable crib or a playard (Pack N Play). It’s easily foldable therefore portable (wink wink) it also comes with a set of wheels which makes it very easy to haul from one side to another side of the house. The mesh mattress can be lowered and used as a breathable mattress. Baby will be safe and sound in this playard until they are 30lbs and 35 inches tall.

That same mattress turns into a cot after taking it out and attaching the legs (included). This breathable mesh can hold a baby up to 30lbs. This makes the cot a great camping bed.

Traveling with Halo DreamNest

The Halo DreamNest is so smart, I love that they have made it so it all and I mean ALL fits in one portable carrying case that can hold this 27 lbs beast of DreamNest.

Robe: PinkBlush Maternity
SleepSac: Halo 100% Cotton Muslin Sleepsack Swaddle

If you have any questions feel free to drop me a line.

xoxo

@shibyshila

Lifestyle Product Review

Micuna Ovo

Posted on 02/17/2019

Micuna Ovo Max Le High Chair

The OVO chair has become one of my favorite pieces in our home. The chair is beautifully designed and built to last. It is practical and makes eating together as a family more enjoyable by providing safety for our child and style for our home. It is very easy to assemble: it took us less than 20 minutes.

I have made a short Youtube video with a couple of important pointers that I hopes will help you assemble even faster than we did (wink wink).

This beautiful chair was packaged in a cute protective drum, that I am going to re-use for toy storage. (see picture)

I had originally planned to use the OVO chair for my newborn, but after we assembled it my toddler wanted to sit in it and “Have it” as he dictates to us! I have to admit it is a bit small for my two and half year old who is off the growth charts.

There is a lot I admire about the OVO chair but one thing I love most is that it is an everlasting piece. As the kids grow, I can effortlessly convert this piece from a high chair to an elegant desk chair for their study corner by removing the bottom part of the feet. This feature is priceless.

The OVO chair is recommended for use from 6 months up to 3 years or 40 pounds. Made of solid beech wood, ABS plastic and PE plastic. Removable and washable round tray. It also has a machine washable and removable padded seat cover available in 5 different colors (sold separately). There is a safety harness to avoid risk of falling. 

Dimensions: 33.46″ H x 20.86″ D 

A little background on Micuna:

Valencia, Spain-based Micuna is a global leader in the manufacturing of furniture and accessories for babies and children.  Recognized for their commitment to  design, quality and safety of its products, Micuna was one of the first Spanish companies to comply with the high standards of European quality and safety.  Micuna products are crafted with eco-friendly practices and materials including wood obtained from sustainable forests.  The Micuna U.S. collection includes the OVO high chair, SMART bassinet, LIFE crib collection and HARMONY evolutive crib.    For more information visit www.micunausa.com.


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