Product Review: OUAI Thick Hair Treatment Masque

Tried out this OUAI Thick Hair Treatment Masque for a more than a month and it seems to do a great job taming my mane. For disclosure, I have received this product for free from Influenster and OUAI in exchange for my honest review.

My hair usually gets dry and frizzy due to the nature of my job but this instantly hydrates and moisturizes my curls. This treatment masque is specially formulated with ingredients like almond, macadamia and olive oils, shea and illipe butters and hydrolyzed keratin. 

The scent profile is leaning towards fruity florals like lychee, berry, peony, freesia and jasmine but with the rose being the dominant note overall. The consistency is noticeably thicker than most hair masks I've tried but a little goes a long way! 

So far, I have noticed my hair looks shinier and healthier when I use this.
Definitely recommended for people with unruly thick hair!

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Product Review: Mac Lipglass in Nymphette

 I'm not too fond of wearing lip gloss but Mac Lipglass makes me reconsider.

What I like about it?

- Medium coverage, pigmented enough that it can be worn by itself or under a lip liner or lipstick

- Sparkly glass-shine finish

- Moisturizing jojoba oil to help soften and condition the lips

- Long lasting compared to most lip gloss

- Not overly sticky, a little tacky but glides smooth on the lips

- Angled doe-foot applicator makes it easy for precise product application

- The formula smells sweet like a delicious chocolate cupcake

For this look, I am wearing one of their best selling shades - Nymphette . This is a light medium pink with warm undertones and gold shimmers. In my opinion, universally flattering for all skin tones and quite reminiscent of the iconic Nars Orgasm Blush. Definitely worth a try for any day to night look!

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Product Review: Jozi Curls Curl Enhancing Spray

 I've been struggling to retrain my curl pattern due to hair damage so I've tried out products that could help me regain my luscious curls back. One of the products that I have tried recently is the Jozi Curls Curl Enhancing Spray. Here what I like: 

- Free from Parabens, Phthalates or Colorants. Vegan, Clean and Cruelty-Free

- Infused with sustainably sourced African Plant Extracts like Raw Shea Butter, Honeybush and Marula Oil

- Keeps my hair hydrated, shiny, smooth and frizz-free for hours. Smells great too!

- Non-greasy and prevents product build up

- Created by curly haired women for curly haired women

-Affordable, only $4.99 for a 250ml bottle!

The only thing I don't like is while I do want to love this product, it seems that my hair type does not seem to enjoy it as much. For reference, I have 2a hair with normal porosity and I did not get the same wonderful results as my fellow curly hair girls with type 3 to 4 hair. I'll probably try again and see if I get better results next time!

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Product Review: Fenty Beauty Poutsicle Hydrating Lip Stain in Zesty Bestie

Hands down, the newly launched Fenty Beauty Poutsicle Hydrating Lip Stain might be the best lip stain formula that I have tried EVER. 

What's to love about it?

- The pigmentation is top-tier for a lip stain! A little goes a long way and the coverage is buildable as well. - The innovative oil-in-water formula infused with squalene goes on glossy AND keeps the lips hydrated without the stickiness, perfect for summer.

- Definitely kiss-proof, it does not transfer on my masks at all. Feather & bleed-resistant. It lasts all-day and surprisingly waterproof too!

- Comes in 4 vibrant wearable shades that would flatter all skin tones.

- It's cruelty-free and formulated without parabens & phthalates 

For this look, I am currently wearing Zesty Bestie which is a beautiful warm red coral shade that goes so natural on morenas like me. Definitely my new favorite lip stain for this season and I'm not surprised why it's sold out everywhere! 

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Product Review: ELF-C Bright Putty Primer

 e.l.f. Cosmetics has a newly launched addition to their Putty Primer collection - the ELF-C Bright Putty Primer. With the success of their best selling Poreless Putty Primer, they have created the same smooth all-day wear formula but with 2% Vitamin C; to give you a natural radiant flawless complexion in a jar! 

I don't usually wear primers just because I find them too much to layer with on top of my skincare routine. But this one feels so velvety smooth, doesn't pill up and minimizes the appearance of my pores. Surprisingly, non-greasy and lightweight. 

However, I have not seen it do much for my dark spots. But it does a good job in gripping my makeup very well as I have noticed my blush and foundation would last longer when I have it on. Would I recommend? For $12, this one is a steal! Definitely!

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AD: Enchance Your Features with SHAPELLX!

At the start of a new month, I always look forward to positivity in my life. I'm incredibly pessimistic and it sounds so corny, but I've took a few classes on Coursera. I got to learn about Positive Psychology more about it helped me change my perspective. Just yesterday, we have celebrated International Women's Day in the US. Although there is still a long way to go in terms of gender inequalities all over the world; It's great to look back and see how far women have progressed. 

Nowadays, we have the freedom to choose to have kids or have a childless lifestyle. We can choose who we love and or marry regardless or social classes or even sexual orientation.

 One thing I like nowadays too is how people and brands are being more inclusive now. Accepting that woman can come in different shapes, sizes, ethnicity, age and sexual orientation. Some of which, embracing body positivity like SHAPELLX.

SHAPELLX official is a brand that is driven to provide a premium collection of products that helps women rediscovered their inner beauty. Instead of confining women to unrealistic body standards, they focus on providing body shaping garments that would "improve posture, boost confidence and highlight a more contoured shape and sleek physique" according to their company website. Which I completely do believe as they have sizes starting from XS that generally go up to 6XL. 

SHAPELLX is inspired to offer the best shapewear for women. They have various products for every needs, ranging from shapewear, waist trainers, bodysuits and even activewears.

For the month of March, they have a Women's Day Sale where they are offering up to 60% off - even on their best sellers! That being said, here are some of the products that are currently on sale:

AirSlim™ Firm Tummy Compression 

BodySuit Shaper with Butt Lifter

Features & Benefits:

- Smooth and seamless look without visible lines

- Compression design made out of three layers strengthens tummy control

- Non-padded butt lifter design

- Convenient for daily use, zipper crotch is great for bathroom breaks

- Plastic bones on two-sides to prevent curling

- No rolling and thigh imprints thanks to its anti-silicone strips on edge

- Sculp and lift the backside for a shapely look - keeping the muscles tight

NeoSweat™ 3 in 1 Tie Dye Workout Mix

Features & Benefits:

- Three adjustable straps around the thighs

- Extra thick latex-free neoprene material that increases thermogenic activity to sweat more

- Made to fit snug but comfortable to wear on many occasions

- Adjustable velcro closure / hand washable

- Adjustable closure for firm fit

- Burns belly & back fat

- Reduces & shrink waist size

- Spot trains stomach, waist & back

- Waist Trainer and Butt Lifter

- Increases blood circulation

- Keeps muscles nice & warm

- Supports lower back for weight lifting

- Reduces the appearance of cellulite

- Trims appearance of thighs

- Tone your thighs while losing inches

- Four unique colors to choose from

AirSlim™ Backless Thong Bodysuit

Features & Benefits:

- Adjustable shoulder strap

- The high elastic mesh is suitable for different bust types
- Convenient for daily use, hooks on the crotch area are great for bathroom breaks
- Breathable and comfortable inner layer of moisture-wicking fabric

Whether it's plus size waist trainers or postpartum recovery full body shaper, SHAPELLX have you covered. Feel best all the time and highlight your curves with SHAPELLX. 

Disclosure Statement: This is a sponsored post. All views or opinions expressed on this blog are unbiased, based on my personal experience with the product or company and might vary from others.

Check out SHAPELLX products in their website at https://www.shapellx.com/. Want to know more about them? Follow their Facebook Page at SHAPELLX, Twitter @shapellx and on Instagram @shapellxofficial.

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Updates!

As shameful as this sounds, I have not looked at my blog for eons already. I just remembered it when I got billed for my hosting and domain after a few months ago. I feel like every time I write an entry in here it always consists of apologies or excuses as to why I am not active here anymore. 

I still do think about writing new entries in here, it just seems like 2020 is not that year. This year has been incredibly overwhelming for most of us. Heck, I still don't know how to process things as I've recently changed my address while trying my best to avoid Covid-19 at my day job among many things. If anything, I hope everyone is coping well and I do wish 2021 will be an entirely different year for everyone! For the good of course! See you soon!

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I'm Back!

So it's been a year and a few months since I left the Philippines. I promised myself I'd keep this blog active so I can document the whole thing and also keep the posts more "personal". The goal was basically hitting two birds with one stone, I get to easily update everyone about my life AND maintain my blog how it was before---less ads more original content. Win-win situation. Sounds great, right? 

But lots of things happened and I wasn't able to what I wanted to do. I've been working two jobs non-stop like crazy. Picture this - I used to work 14.5 hours a day before! My only "personal time" was limited to biphasic/polyphasic sleep and dinner. It realized it was THAT bad when I had to choose between a taking a cat nap, having lunch or a quick shower. I was burned out, lack of sleep and fatigue was the norm for me. I knew I had to stop when I realize I was breathing very audibly, found it difficult to breathe and had more chest pains than usual. Really scary. 

Fast forward to now, I think I'm doing a lot better. 

Reasons Why I Was on Hiatus:

1.) Lack of time - I don't have two jobs anymore so I'm not as busy as I am now.

2.) Slow unreliable laptop - I bought a super powerful gaming laptop last year yay!

3.) No local events to attend - I figured I can make my own content without it, not a problem.

4.) Creative block - I'm in desperate need of a creative outlet right now.

Basically, I ran out of excuses as to why I'm not blogging anymore. I think it's a perfect time to come back. 

For now, I don't have much to share mainly because I have no idea where to start. Seriously. Some of the things that I'm still working at most of the time is purely adjusting here. From what I've been told, California isn't as bad as most states in the East coast. However, growing up in a tropical country... everything seems to be cold to me. Really.

Like I said in a previous post, I don't get to use the things I've accumulated in the Philippines just for the reason. So when I got back here again, I left behind a bunch of stuff there. Ended buying new things that I thought might suit the weather here better (a perfectly valid excuse to splurge lol). Here's some of the things I'm currently trying out:

Skincare Products

COSRX Low pH Good Morning Gel Cleanser

The Ordinary Buffet & The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% 

The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution

Anti Aging Peptide Eye Cream By Alana Mitchell

Organic Rosehip Seed Oil by Sky Organics

USDA Organic Vegetable Glycerin, Dead Sea Mud Mask & 100% Pure African Black Soap by Spa Organics

Foxbrim Organic Castor Oil

Contact Lenses

Hubble Contact Lenses

O-Lens Bling Some in Coral Pink & O-Lens Symphony Green

Waldo Contact Lenses

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I have more stuff I'm currently trying out but these are the ones I like so far. Someone please cancel my Amazon Prime subscription or at least hide my cards! Just kidding! Hahahahaha. Not sure if there's people still reading my blog. If you're reading this, thank you so much for the support! I'm just so happy to be back!

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Is Social Media Giving Us Unrealistic Beauty Expectations? What is the Impact?

Nowadays it’s pretty impossible to find someone who isn’t on at least one kind of social media. The unique combination of Filipino culture, where everyone knows everyone else and sharing information is as natural as breathing, meeting with smartphones and data plans means that social media connectivity thrives in the Philippines.

In fact, Hootsuite and We Are Social’s Digital 2019 report shows that Filipinos typically spend about 10 hours and 2 minutes on the internet on average every day— more than any country in the world.

All this time spent online has its effects, and not just on your phone bill. Admit it, sometimes scrolling through your Facebook and Instagram feed brings a twinge of emotion, and not always good. In between pictures of someone’s dog or birthday party, it’s likely you’ve seen your friends living lives that look more exciting than yours. Bustle quotes a study by French researchers that reveals that spending more time on social media comparing ourselves to others is more likely to make us more depressed.

According to studies compiled in this essay on Medium, only thirty minutes of media can change the way a girl perceives her body. In the Philippines, where people spend an average of 10 hours, the impact of social media on self-esteem might be even more extreme. Young girls looking at beautiful women online might feel even more insecure about themselves than ever before.

If you’re on Instagram, you’ve probably heard of the term “social media influencers.” These are people becoming celebrities online who are quickly changing the landscape of what’s hip or cool, and they’re as accessible as a quick tap on the ‘Follow’ button. This BNY Jeans post on ’50 Instagram Influencers to Follow in the Philippines in 2019’ shows just how many top influencers there are in the Philippines, and there are probably thousands more.

Looking at the perfect, glamorous lives of these influencers as they travel around the world has a definite impact. Younger and younger girls are beginning to use makeup, and more boys feel insecure about their bodies. When faced with so many ideals of beauty and wealth on your phone, it can be hard not to feel like you’re not up to par. That’s why more young people now are spending more money so they can mimic the lives they see online— whether it’s flying around the globe, buying tons of makeup, eating at expensive places, or buying the latest pair of sneakers, you can be sure that the cause is something along the lines of, “I saw it online.”

However, if social media has its downsides, it does have its silver lining as well. Due to the “democratization” of information, and how easy it is now to set up your own accounts, some influencers out there are challenging beauty standards. This Women in the World article rounds up just five influencers who are changing the idea of what it means to be beautiful, but there are sure to be many more.

What we see on our phones isn’t always the reality, and sometimes we forget that these posts are actually carefully curated to show all the ups of life without the downs. It takes hours of undocumented effort to get that perfectly made-up, stylish shot, and no one really looks that good just getting up. So with all things, take what you see on social media with a grain of salt. You might not realize it, but you’re actually doing just fine.

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Check out the rest of Pinay Buzz for more articles on beauty, lifestyle, and adventure!

Ways to Enhance Your Online Music Listening Experience

Music is one thing that all of you get to love and this is why you want to make sure that you have top quality music access on your device mobile, laptop or smart TV. With upgrades in technology, things have become easier for you as there are many online live Stream Music options that you can get to make use of in order to have the best quality of entertainment.

You just need to explore the web for a while and you will find countless options on the internet for music streaming. With the changing trends, now there are apps that are available for live streaming music that only enhances your music experience.  There are also broadcasting apps that are available for you in case you love to listen to some particular broadcasters only. To help you further on this very aspect, here is a look at some of the ways to enhance your experience if you love to listen to online music:

Keep cleaning up your library:

This is one of the first things that you shall do if you want to have the best kind of experience. It becomes quite tough for you to find your best songs and thus you need to get the better of songs that you do not find particularly well so that they do not play again when you play your library. So, you need to organize your library on a regular basis and have a better music experience.

Save your favorite broadcasters:

This is another thing that you can get to do if you love to listen to online music. Most of you tend to have particular liking to some broadcasters and you can get to save them and get notifications about new broadcasts from them. The Live Broadcast App will help you a great deal in this very aspect as you can easily personalize and customize the experience as per your choice and suitability. You can also snooze the broadcasters that you do not find interesting so that you are not able to see any updates from them thus making your experience even better.

Creating smart playlists:

This is another thing that you can get to do when you listen to music on your Smartphone. You can create a playlist of songs that are played very rarely so that you can listen to them when you are looking for different type of music. The best way you can create the playlist is by selecting a particular word of any song that you want to add to playlist. Then, you can add other songs to the playlists by easily visiting those songs and adding that particular word in the comments section. It will auto update the playlist for you but is actually a tedious task to begin with.

You can also get to make use of the Video Streaming App in case you are willing to have both video and music at the same time making your experience further joyful and cheerful.

Disclosure Statement: This is a sponsored post. All views or opinions expressed on this blog are based on my personal experience with the product or company and might vary from others.

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Softer, More Radiant Photo-Ready Skin in Two Minutes From Nu Skin

Hi guys! Sorry I haven't posted anything for a while now. I've been a bit busy juggling two jobs and adjusting to another country that I wasn't been able to update you all on what's going on. I think I owe everyone an explanation and I'll do that very soon!

For the meantime though, here's something that I'd like to share with you guys! A few days ago, my blogger friend Alice helped us score some fresh information in the beauty community. Here's her exclusive coverage of the Nu Skin ageLOC Lumispa launch, read more below!

I know it's ridiculous but there is a way now with Nu Skin's ageLOC Lumispa. A new dual-action skin care device that simultaneously delivers a skin-perfecting treatment and deep cleansing benefits to reveal a smoother, softer skin after one use.

Especially with today's ever-changing weather, constant exposure to pollution, stress and other factors, our skin does take a toll on it so taking care of our skin would also reduce the aging process.

LumiSpa - comparable to a facial massage, uses a patent-pending oscillating, pore-purifying action that cleanses away dirt, oil, makeup, pollutants and toxins while giving back seven skin benefits such as:

• Skin Renewal
• Purified skin
• Minimizes the appearance of pores
• Smoothness - radiance - a more refreshed look
• Improvement in the appearance of volume and density of the skin

I know it's too good to be true, but it's actually possible! A few days ago I was luckily invited to check it out at EDSA Shangrila along with other beauty bloggers to see how amazing and revolutionary Nu Skin's LumiSpa really is.

The ageLOC LumiSpa device is a waterproof, handheld personal skin care device that comes with its own charging base, treatment heads which moves at a precise frequency to promote deep cleansing and skin renewal for a healthier and refreshed appearance of our skin!

So I've mentioned earlier that this comes with two treatment heads - which are the normal and the firm. As they are made from silicone it's actually more hygienic and gentle than the traditional brush, unlike other devices.

Additional information about the heads is that they are embedded with an anti-microbial silver which lasts for three months in which you need to change the treatment heads with new ones. I actually asked how long is the battery life of the device and they said it will last for a whole week which is amazing since you will only use this for two minutes in the morning and at night.

The coolest thing about the device is that when there is too much force applied in the LumiSpa it actually turns off! Another cool factor is that it has its own timer set to two minutes which will be a faster way to do your cleansing routine, especially in the morning. 

The ageLOC LumiSpa starter kit includes the ageLOC LumiSpa device, treatment head, treatment cleanser, charging base, power cord, a quick start guide and a User's Manual. It will be available in the Philippines for 14, 000 pesos. If you guys are interested you can check it out along with other NuSkin products at www.nuskin.com.ph

Much Love!
xx Alice

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The Tool To Fighting Hair Loss - Naturally!

Adventorial

Every day is a challenge, whether you're going to school or work - It's always going to be a tasking routine. Tasking in a sense that you always have to look your best despite being regularly exposed to pollution and stress. First impressions lasts. Because of this, you always have to be ready and equip yourself with your trusted beauty arsenal. Sometimes, it's a bit ironic that some of these are loaded with hazardous chemicals that instead of doing good, might even cause more harm. It's either a hit or miss!

Thankfully, not all beauty products are harmful and there are always safer natural alternatives in the market. NOVUHAIR is a natural remedy when it comes to hair loss. All its natural ingredients are scientifically proven to promote hair growth. Change is great. If your routine isn't doing it for you, maybe it's time to make a change. Say goodbye to chemically-laced hair care products and say hello to NOVUHAIR.

5 Things You Need To Know Before Getting Hair Extensions

Disclosure Statement: This is a sponsored post. All views or opinions expressed on this blog are unbiased, based on my personal experience with the product or company and might vary from others.

Being the practical person that I am, I made it a priority to have all my beauty services done in the Philippines before migrating. Why? I knew for a fact that getting the most basic manicure/pedicure, haircut or facial would cost me more than what I usually pay for. Last December, I got myself an impulsive haircut (that only costs $2) at Team Sir George Salon - despite the fact that I'm trying to grow out my hair.

Having shorter hair is also practical, just imagine the time and money you get to save! However, I personally think that I look best with long bouncy curls. Mermaid locks are the bomb! In my case, waiting for my hair to grow out isn't the best option, especially if I'm indecisive with switching up my hairstyles on a regular basis.

The answer for this beauty dilemma? Hair extensions! Whether you'd like to clip them on or have a professional attach it for you, instant volume and length can always be achieved! Interested in getting your own?

My Lips But Better: Lioele Bubi Bubi Tint Balm in #01 Tropical Raspberry Review

I don't know if some of you may already know this but I just moved to California last week. I'm still adjusting now as we speak. I didn't have much of a problem with the shift from GMT to PST. However, growing up in Manila the concept of having four seasons seemed so foreign to me. It was basically "summer" all year long so imagine my surprise (and total disappointment) when I figured some of my stuff won't "work" well in winter.

The sad part, I ended up giving away and throwing out kilos of things that I can't bring with me here. Detaching myself from material things was really difficult. However, the bright side is some of the things I brought might be of good use.

One of which that I did get to keep is the Lioele's hottest lip balm the Bubi Bubi Tint Balm - a lip balm and tint in one. According to its product description: It promises to heal dried and / or chapped lips and provide nourishment for a healthy, touchable feel. Its lip tinting effect provides the lips a natural and vibrant look - turning lips to a desirable color with just one application. Protecting your lips from winter cracks and summer dryness while adding some great color. Perfect for an anemic girl with chapped lips like mine!

Paint The Town Red - Lioele Lip Color Stick in #04 Rebecca - Cherry Red Review

The thing I like about beauty is there's no "wrong" or "right" way of doing things. Thick brows, over-lined lips, drunk blush. What ever trend there is this 2018, if you could wear it and not the other way around then go for it!

Personally, the lip shades that I prefer wearing are in the range of nudes and mauves. If there's a shade that I have a hard time pulling off, it's red. Red is a powerful color. It's a striking color that turns heads which is tricky because sometimes it makes you look intimidating.

Last month, I got to try the Lioele Lip Color Stick in #04 Rebecca - Cherry Red. It's an innovative 4-in-1 lip pencil that functions as a lipstick, shines like a gloss, moisturizes like a lip balm, and stays as a tint. We love multi-tasking products so I'm not that surprised it's Lioele's best seller for October-November 2017.

NOVUHAIR Gives Back with a Holiday Bash Promo

So you've got your IG-worthy OOTDs ready and the nice gifts perfectly wrapped for your "monito" or "monita". But are you ready to flaunt your holiday-inspired hairstyle?

The heat and humidity brought by extreme weather conditions here in the Philippines though isn't really ideal for your locks making it appear flat and sweaty. Plus, our tropical climate makes it easy to dry out the hair and make it more fragile.

Surprisingly, some hair products do more harm than good depending on their chemical contents. From shampoo to conditioner and hair treatment, down to styling goods to groom it to your liking, their harsh synthetic materials jeopardise the natural oil and luster of your mane.

As they say, you are what you eat. But did you know that your could eat your way to get a fabulous crowning glory? Your diet must consist of the correct balance of vitamins and minerals to supply hair with all that it needs to become shiny and strong. Practice self discipline and avoid overindulging especially in gastronomic feasts which are widespread this time of the year. Be careful on what you take in and keep in mind that it's also what feeds your 'do.

Another tip to keep your tresses looking good is to prevent being stressed. Never put pressure on yourself just to please everyone. Just take it easy, let your hair down and party all night long.

In this time of gratitude, NOVUHAIR makes everyday "a good hair day" for its valued patrons with its Christmas and Year-End Promo. Get an extra NOVUHAIR Herbal Shampoo in 200ml worth P1,040 for FREE if you buy a NOVUHAIR 3-in-1 pack at participating WATSONS stores nationwide (DOH-FDA CCRR Permit No.: 967 s. 2017).

It's a good deal since it is packed with 19 natural ingredients -- mostly standardized herbal extracts, essential oils and co-factor nutrients --- NOVUHAIR Topical Scalp Lotion does not only help prevent the hair fall malady, but also aids in stimulating hair growth. NOVUHAIR helps prevent hair loss, improve overall appearance, promote nourishment and rejuvenation. It is clinically-tested and proven safe and effective.

Choose the best with this Christmas and Year-End promo. Whether it's a luxury gift for your loved ones, or a self-indulgent treat for you, NOVUHAIR has the perfect gift to inspire and keep you party-ready this Holiday season, while providing you with the ultimate styling result.

To know more about NOVUHAIR, you may visit their website at www.novuhair.com or follow their Facebook Page at https://www.facebook.com/NovuhairOfficial/

For other inquiries, you can call them at 413-6570 or 0922-8830575.

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