I made an appointment with Meg and I was not disappointed. I had been cutting my own hair and it was a hot mess but Meg listened, cut and fixed my hair with such grace and confidence. Thanks Meg. I will be back read more

Meg is a gem! At first I was anxious about my appointment but Meg made me feel welcome and she put me at ease taking the time to explain what I could expect. It went great and with each step I could see the transformation taking place with my natural curls. I was not disappointed and I look forward to going back!!! If you have curly hair GO see her you'll be glad you did! read more

I went in with my silver, wavy hair just hoping for it to look better. I know my hair is not the most exciting or challenging curly hair but Meg proved that even wavy gals can benefit from a proper cut. She showed me that I actually have plenty of hair and I don't need a gazillion products to style it. Her simplified styling on me was notable the next day when my family actually noticed my wavy curls were still intact. In the following wash days, I noticed that the cut continued to deliver each time I styled it. I cannot even describe how this cut differs from others I have gotten from traditional hairstylists that say they can cut my wavy hair. I just know this cut makes my hair look better which is what I wanted. read more

Meg is a phenomenal person, who cares about helping you see the beauty and strength of your curls. I have been working with Meg for almost ten years (!!) and she is the first person who helped me feel confident about being a curly haired gal. Every time I'm there, whether I'm close cropped or long haired, I learn something new about caring for my hair - from how to keep it wrapped at night, to finding a hooded dryer for winter to avoid wet hair and damage. Meg listens to you during the appointment, looks at your hair and sees its potential, and then makes it happen. She is a visionary, an educator, and a pragmatist about hair. I recommend Meg to every curly girl I know because of how impactful she's been on my journey to loving my hair. read more

Curly Hair Alchemist - Short hair, don't care. - Hair Salons Near Me - Valrico, Florida

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This was my first time ever going to someone who specialized in curly hair. I was so tired of my undefined, dry curls and I felt hopeless. My hair has always been dry and no amount of oil or hair product could do it for me. I came across Curly Hair Alchemist and figured I'd give it a shot since it's close by. I was definitely skeptical because I felt like my hair was incurable... like nothing and no one in the world can make my hair make sense.. So I came to Meg to get my hair done and she went into detail about the hair I have. She detoxed my hair, explained what products my hair needed and what the detox consisted of, and trimmed so little off the ends of my hair and the results made me so happy. My hair finally had defined curls all throughout my head. My hair looked moisturized and so different than before. I'm super happy with what she did and I'm hoping I can keep my hair looking like this on my own. Below is a before photo of my hair and 2 after photos. read more

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Where do I begin? I'd been following Meg for months, scoping out whether I should try a different place for my curls. I was convinced Meg was incredibly talented and boy is that the truth. I've been to the salon twice now - once for cut, which was fab, and once for color, which was over the top amazing. I was blonde over summer (done at another salon) and I HATED it (it was exactly what I asked for I just didn't like it on me), and I reached out to Meg and asked her if she could help me. Meg squeezed me in the schedule as I was traveling for work. When I arrived, I let her take the wheel. The result was absolutely incredible and I will not be going to any other salon for any other service. Hands down. The thing that really sets Meg apart is that she is a curl consultant. She is interested in what is going to keep your hair happy, even if it's not necessarily what you expected to hear. She's not in the game of selling you extra unneeded services, and she's invested in caring for your hair. Plain and simple. read more

Curly Hair Alchemist - Color and shape by Meg :) - Hair Salons Near Me - Valrico, Florida

I stubbled upon Meg through social media & also google. I looked up Curly Hair specialist & her business along with others came up, but she stood out to me the most. I followed her on her instagram, looked/tried some of her hairstyles on her youtube & even asked someone who followed her their thoughts, and it turned out we had a mutual friend. One thing I loved most about Meg was the intimacy in her salon. It is very cute, clean & super comfortable, her attention is solely on you. I loved her honesty about your hair and the questions she asks during her consult. She educated me on products, product lines, ingredients and my hair. I loved my cut! She heard my requests/concerns and executed beautifully. She truly is passionate about curly hair and is amazing at her craft. I can't wait to see her again and I just got my cut! She's amazing! Highly recommend! read more

Curly Hair Alchemist - After my cut with Meg!! - Hair Salons Near Me - Valrico, Florida

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After having total traumas with my hair in the hands of other stylists I 100% trust Meg to cut my curly wavy hair. I always feel like a new person as she's able to see the style that is hiding out in my mane. She takes her time to perfect the look. Recently Meg also painted my hair. She looked at pictures of nature to see what combination would look good with my coloring which I had never seen a stylist do before. Im so happy with my new look! Curly hair ladies - Meg will rock your cut and color! And her salon is so easy to get to by MetroNorth- literally a 3 minute walk from the Dobbs Ferry Station. read more

Curly Hair Alchemist - Hair Salons Near Me - Valrico, Florida

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Meg has cut my hair for the past 7 or 8 years. She knows my curls and my preferred style well, and she can "get" the look I am going for even if I don't have the vocabulary to say what's on my mind. If you have curls and want to share your curly flair, I highly recommend treating yourself to a curly cut with Meg! I cringe when I look back at old photos where I let my hair plop down or put it up just to keep it out of my way because stylists didn't know how to cut it. The price point might be a little high, but I would much rather pay a little more for an expert than save money on a so-so cut. read more

Meg gave me the best haircut ever...3 years ago. I saved money every year to go with her. Last time she was occupied greeting a friend from out of country and didn't even care to finished my haircut. I love her style and I truly believe she is gifted for curly hair but in my personal experience, if I'm going to pay 250 I think I deserve attention on what my needs are. I'm looking for a curly hair specialist in the area. And if I have to go to the city (NYC) I will do it. Meg is awesome! Nothing personal I just felt not cared as much. read more

I had to cancel my appointment due to illness. I had booked the most expensive treatment the salon offered for $550. I told the salon that I'm happy to pay a portion for the late cancellation as I value her time but she refused to give me any credit or refund at all even though her email clearly states that the salon will work with you if it's an emergency. I assume a portion of that price goes to product which was not used. She said I should have let her know I was sick 48 hours in advance. I let her know that I would have if I had symptoms at that time. This salon would rather you come in with Covid and infect everyone than work with you when something truly outside of your control comes up. This makes me question their health and safety practices in general. This is a very challenging time in the world and businesses who have no regard for human health are very worrisome. read more

I have never posted a review on Yelp before, but I am still recovering from the horrific haircut I received from Meg Conkling over 2 months ago. Meg Conkling's haircut left the front, top and left side of my hair very short (like 2 inches) and the back and right side long (think lopsided mullet), causing the top of my hair to stand straight up! She tried to "calm the hair down" by placing me under a drier, but the damage was done, and I left the salon in tears (after paying over $200 for the visit). Since the lopsided mullet I received from Meg Conkling, I have visited 2 other hairstylists for consultation as to how to repair the damage she caused to my hair. Both stylists told me it was the "worst haircut" they had ever seen and that I needed to grow the hair out for 6 months because the front, top and left side were cut so short. I now have to live with a lopsided mullet for the remaining 4 months until someone can repair the damage caused by Meg Conkling. Meg Conkling is not an expert at cutting any hair, let alone curly hair. There is nothing magical and no "alchemy" about her haircuts, but only shock and disappointment. She lacks a basic understanding of how to cut curly hair, having cut part of my hair 2 inches short (basic no-no for curly hair). She lacks any skill and demonstrated no technique in cutting my hair, leaving me with an amorphous, lopsided mess. The only expertise Meg Conkling possesses is how to dupe people into visiting her salon, using a carefully crafted website and a few testimonials (most likely prepared by her friends). As i said initially, I have never written a Yelp review before, but the catastrophic effect of a visit with Meg Conkling necessitated that I alert others, to help avoid the same horrific outcome of a haircut with Meg Conkling. read more

I had been wanting a DevaCut for a long time but never went through with it and I finally came across this salon. I was immediately impressed with the before and after pictures I saw and made my appointment without problem. The day of my appointment, Meg was very nice and informative. She was able to answer all the doubts I had and educate me about how to style my hair. I could not have been more happy with the end result! I feel so much more confidence and happiness now that my hair is bouncy and full of life. I highly recommend Curly Hair Alchemist for anyone that is looking to make an investment in themselves because it is worth it! read more

Curious why my review from December is no longer listed? Meg gave me the worst haircut ever....... I cried. I went back within a week and asked her to fix it. She told me "that would be a service", I was charged $140, plus tip and some products and she can't make sure a client is happy? I don't think her ego can take criticism. My haircut was in December and my "bangs" are STILL too short. I thought Yelp didn't take down reviews? read more

After visiting countless hair salons I finally found a place that is both healthy for me and my curly hair! Meg is the bomb .com! After finding her on Instagram, I can finally say I found myself a curly hair expert! She is well versed in her craft and knows how to simply teach others how to maintain their curly hair. I am one of those girls that never fully accepted my curls until two years ago. Viva La Curly Revolution! I have been going to Meg for the past year I have learned how to keep my hair healthy and looking beautiful. I am happy to say I am loving my curly hair cuts and it's all thanks to Meg! Thank you Meg! I can't wait to see you in December! Life changing indeed! read more

Coming for a haircut with Meg is a game changer! Every time I leave her salon I feel like a new person, I feel lighter and love my style and my curls! You can tell she loves to help people and really has a passion for hair and is so knowledgeable. I learn something new about my hair every time I visit and really feel like it's not just an appointment but an experience! read more

Meg has been cutting my hair for about 2 years. She is extremely knowledgeable about curly hair. Visits with Highly recommend. Her salon is extremely calm and relaxing just like her vibe!!! read more

Meg is truly a delight. She has such a warm and sparkly energy about her that's makes everyone around her feel happy. Are you sick of that frizzy mess? Do you want to really understand how to make your curly hair look incredible? Meg has lots of tips and tricks. Go! Your curls will thank you. read more

I love my hair again! THANK YOU Meg! I have been searching for a new stylist since my stylist of eight years moved. I have a combination of curly and wavy hair which I grew to love with my prior stylist because she cut it in a way that embraced the textures and encouraged them to do their thing without me having to work for it. THAT is a good curly hair artist (and THAT is Meg!). Before finding Meg, I went to another local salon that advertised specializing in curly hair, but was not happy with the results. I did not feel like the stylist listened to me or what I knew about my own hair and look. They told me I had too many layers and needed to grow out my bangs (I need layers and love my bangs!) I did what they said because I thought, OK, give change a try, but the result was heavy shelf hair and a bizzare chunk in the front that I didn't know what to do with. Enter Meg. Meg was everything I've been looking for since that poor experience, and I finally feel like I can trust someone with my hair again. She listened to me beforehand, and also explained her technique so I understood it, and then carefully cut my hair, letting its natural state tell her what to do (which is what my prior stylist did, magic!) She also spent time with me explaining and practicing with me how to style my hair. She has great products too! Get the curly hair towel, it's amazing. I'm excited about my hair again and feel like myself again when I look in the mirror. It's hard to explain what a relief this is, but I suspect a lot of curly girls reading will get this. I got my bangs back too! I have a low maintenance, fun, "me" curly haircut. I can already tell this haircut is going to look awesome as it grows out too, so I'm excited to see how it evolves and how it wants to play with me in the coming weeks. BUT, I also can't wait for my next visit; I'm finally going to get highlights then, too, because I trust Meg to do it and am excited at the prospect. Meg is intuitive, skilled at her craft, and you will feel at ease in her hands. Beautiful, peaceful salon, too. Thank you!!! read more

From the reviews, I decided to give her a shot. She had great knowledge in my curls but definitely not worth the price. The total was around 220.00 for style and cut. She made me feel inferior and acted as if she was better than me, but knowing that she had knowledge in my curls, i just brushed it off. While styling my hair, she mentioned she chooses who she works with and if your energy is off, she wont work with you. I also mentioned to her im on a budget, she commented by saying oh "the B word" as if being on budget was an issue for her. I thought her aura would be sweet as mentioned in the comments but i was wrong. She also said you would have to spend over 300 in order for her to "kiss your ass" I felt very uncomfortable and looking back i wish i just walked out. Save your money. Plenty of other places that will treat you kindly. read more

I don't usually write reviews but I know how important it is for curly haired people to rely on each others experiences.I had a great experience with Meg. She's kind and respects your thoughts and really does listen to you and try to guide you.I have tried a ouidad haircut and Deva haircut, and what I have realized is that having a certificate does not make you a great haircutter. Cutting curly hair is an art and Meg certainly has the artistic ability to design your hair. As far as the cost,if you divide the amount per day, it's worth it so you can look in the mirror every morning without saying "ahhh!!" Working with Meg was fun!! read more

Meg is great, she really listens and knows her way around a head of curly hair. Have gotten 3 cuts now and always very happy with the results. read more

My 12 year old daughter was scheduled for a trim, she showed up for her appointment.. with my husband and our other children (6 month old baby and 8 year old daughter) Meg proceeds to tell my family that the appointment is for a trim and not a cut. That she cannot and WILL NOT cut her hair if she wants a full hair cut as she does not have enough time. My family reached out to me... and Meg reiterated how she cannot cut her hair since what my daughter is asking for requires additional time. I explained no need to style wash or do any extra work, just cut her hair i'll pay whatever it costs. She said as much as she is proud of her skills she is unable to do so. My entire family leaves the salon. She then calls me directly to say that she is going to charge me a $105 cancellation fee. However, she never mentioned such a fee while we were on the phone discussing the problem.. Moving forward, I tell Meg on the phone my daughter will go back if that's the case, let her get the trim she was due. SHE REFUSED HER as a client, as another client was already sitting in the chair. Meanwhile this is all still within my daughters allotted time. She goes on to tell me that my daughter looked like she was embarrassed and going to cry while at the salon. Yet, she did nothing to try to console or help her. She also made very clear to me that her cancellation policy is noted on her website and there was no need for her to mention to me while we were initially on the phone that there was such a policy in place. She explained its on 3 different platforms she should not have to reiterate the policy to me. All the while my poor daughter was in the middle of the salon just sitting there waiting for a haircut that never happened and she did absolutely nothing to remedy the situation. My 8 yr old daughter was so disturbed as well. 2 children in her presence and she displayed the worse customer service I've ever encountered around my kids! In her own words my 12 year old looked like she was going to cry! I WILL NEVER RETURN here and will continue to visit my preferred salon which is DevaCurl in NYC. read more

"Curly Hair Alchemist" is Meg Conkling. I say this first because I've noticed a recurring theme when reading certain online salon reviews, which is a theme of people wandering the desert of Southern Westchester in a panic with frizzy curls, asking "what happened to Meg from Devachan?" Curly-haired people have it tough - it's easy for us to look like a hot mess, wishing we were born with straight hair. That won't happen with Meg. Meg has curls for days and she knows how to cut them, so she'll make yours look the way they were intended to look. She'll also teach you how to keep them that way. There's a little bit of magic in alchemy, but there's also a science to it and Meg knows what that science is. Meg pays attention to detail, she pays attention to your hair, and she pays attention to you, which is nice because you'll be in a session with her for quite some time. Go make your appointment and sit in a chair with an inquisitive soul that radiates positivity. You'll leave not only with a great cut, but with a good feeling about your curls and about yourself. Perhaps you'll even feel inspired, like you've just taken some amazing drug that makes you feel wonderful and is somehow perfectly legal, like pure chocolate. But at the same time you'll be worried that the government is going to find out about that drug - the "Meg Drug" - and ban it so that we all have to meet in underground speakeasies and get secret illegal haircuts from Meg while we gossip about the times when we used to trek to Deva in White Plains and reminisce about the good ol 'days prior to "Meg Era Prohibition" - don't let that happen. She currently works out of Embrace U salon which is both cozy and unpretentious and has a gorgeous view of the Hudson River through a rear wall of glass. It's located in historic Dobbs Ferry, and like so many gems in life you could easily drive by it and not even realize it's there. So please stop reading this and go schedule an appointment. You heard me, go! read more

I first found the Curly Hair Alchemist, aka Meg, at Deva Chan Salon in White Plains, NY. I have been a client for over 5 years and have always been happy with the cut and style from Meg. The cut is always so excellent that my hair looks good the next day until months later when I go back for a shaping. It never gets raggy or too heavy. I say months later - because Meg is so exceptional I now travel from Tennessee to her salon. It is worth it! I have not cried due to a poor cut in over 5 years, I have had nary a bad hair day (except when I haven't showered for days and it is up in a bun). Other curly haired girls will understand what I mean when I mention crying, it happens at salons where they wet cut your hair. The CHA cuts your hair dry so you can see the immediate reaction of the curl. It makes all the difference. You can watch your hair transform as Meg is cutting it. Additionally, before even taking a scissor to your head Meg will ask what look you want. Even after all these years (and admittedly very little change on my part to my look) she asks me what are you looking for. And being heard by your stylist is so very important. Even when the request is to go back to the 90's look :) The space is so relaxing. You walk in and immediately feel like you can breathe. The beauty of the river, and the warmth of the room is very inviting and just adds to the experience. It matches Meg's warm personality. I do not use the word experience lightly - as every time it is an experience - it is not just a super cuts moment. If you have curly hair -- give this gift to yourself. You will never look back. You will feel relaxed during, beautiful at the first look in the mirror and confident for months after knowing that you look your best. If you have any questions feel free to PM me. read more

After taking a few days reflecting on my first visit with Meg at Curly Hair Alchemist, I have to say it was honestly a very disappointing curly cut experience. I have had curly cuts before by different stylists, but after getting a recommendation, I decided to make an appointment with Meg. For me, Meg's chairside manner was lacking. Although Meg had curl knowledge, her attitude and approach was off-putting. Ultimately, there was a real absence of presence. Unfortunately the vibe was one of self-importance that had little room for my hair concerns. The three best things that came from this experience are: (a) the lovely, kind, and friendly woman who washed and conditioned my hair, (b) the Trepadora hair products, and (c) the wisdom of relearning to listen to my intuition (gut) when it tells me to leave. I will not be returning. read more

She gave me the best curly cut I have ever had. In the past I have had other cuts but I was never fully satisfied so I would go back to straightening my hair weekly. For the first time, I have been able to maintain and love my curls ever since she cut my hair 6 months ago- I haven't been tempted to blow it out once. She is very kind, thoughtful and shares a lot of knowledge that is helpful. read more

Truly the best hair stylist ive been to! If you want to receive honest advice from a stylist who really cares about her customers and is knowledgeable about what she does then Meg is who you have been looking for. My sister and I had booked appointments back to back with intentions of what we thought we needed for our hair. Meg sat us down and told us what our hair really needed and was honest and didnt have us do unnecessary treatments. Most hair stylists you go to they will recommend everything under the sun just to get more money. Meg literally gives you a real consultation looks at what your hair needs and walks you through the whole process as a team. I have tight spiral curls so whenever I used to go get my haircut I would have to straighten it because any hair stylist I went to either used to chop off all my hair or they said they couldn't cut it curly. She is such a caring person and so down to earth. I will no longer let anybody touch my curls again! My curls are so much healthier i kept my length. I get compliments all the time, especially from people that I see everyday because they noticed that my curls look so much more moisturized and are not frizzy anymore. Visiting her Salon is like visiting one of your girlfriends. My sister and i really enjoyed our appointments and will definitely be back! ;) read more

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Meg is amazing!! I haven't gotten a haircut in forever and Meg nailed it. My hair got amped up, and Meg was a delight. I can tell this is more than just a job, its her passion and I'm committed to having my hair cut by her forever! read more

Best haircuts I've ever had. If you're a guy with curly hair and can't seem to get anyone to shape your curls the way they will look, when you style them yourself, this is the spot. I don't care if it's a long drive, make the trip. You won't regret it. Her wealth of knowledge will blow your mind. She will talk to you about products that make sense for you, not try to push and sell crap like everywhere else. What I appreciate most is the style always looks current, while at the same time, authentically me. Us curly hair dudes don't get much attention in the world of hairstyles and products, and that's fine (hair pun), however you need a cut by someone like Meg to help navigate the curl ship. So raise the sails, and ride the winds to Curly Hair Alchemist, sit for a consultation and let her work with you to unveil the treasure of being curly headed. ~ :) It's that kind of experience. Trust me read more

I don't recommend going here for a haircut. She made me feel uncomfortable and did not listen to what I wanted. It was the worst haircut and not worth how much money she charged. She didn't care that I was unhappy and was only interested in promoting herself. Stay away. She is really weird. read more

We love Meg! Her hour consultation was more than my daughter or I could ever imagine. Not only did she teach us about my daughter's hair and what it needs, she gave hands on training on how to care for her hair. The best part is that she demonstrated technique then had my ten year old perform the technique on her own hair. This was invaluable! My daughter left feeling confident that she could care and style her hair independently. We are so grateful that we found Meg. read more

I met Meg years ago at Devachan and no one else has cut my hair since that day. She is exceedingly knowledgeable about curly hair and has a true passion for helping women look and feel their best. Her new location is great - spotless and overlooking the Hudson in Dobbs Ferry. If you have curly hair and are looking for someone who will be thoughtful about your cut and style, make an appointment with Meg. read more

I've been doing the curly hair thing for about six years. I bounced from salon to salon but had a hard time finding someone who truly knew how to cut curly hair, despite their training in this area. I ended up a Deva Chan at one point. They obviously know curly hair there, but it felt like a factory. My stylist (well known) didn't know me from Eve after two years, she saw so many clients. And deva products never really were great on my hair, so she wasn't able to solve any issues I was having, like frizz. So I looked around again and found Meg! She was (is) a breath of fresh air. From the initial consultation, she was focused and attentive, and made sure she understood me as well as my hair. She provided me with a regimen that was simple and made the most of my curls. She used new products instinctively (she has very strong instincts and intuition) and any issues I was having disappeared. I also felt a connection to Meg - she is very welcoming and warm, and you feel pretty quickly a closeness, as if you've known her already. At my last appointment I said goodbye to Meg since I was moving to another state. When I got to my new home I discovered that I now have soft water. My regimen wasn't working, my curls was sagging and droopy, and my hair looked perpetually dirty and frizzy. I tried doing research, tried a few things, but nothing I tried worked. I was getting ready to give up my curls. I emailed Meg, and despite the fact that I am no longer a client, she responded with a list of products and techniques to use. Honestly my curls look even better than before! Lots of compliments, too. So Meg is a true artist, and dedicated to her craft. I cannot recommend her enough. UPDATE: After moving away, I tried a new stylist where I'm currently living. I did extensive research and found someone with a 5 star rating in the deva website. It was a disaster. She nearly ruined my curls. So I'm heading back to Meg - I'm going to drive 2 hours each way because she's that good. read more

I've struggled with my wavy/curly hair for my whole life. I really wanted to get a cut and color that complimented me and allowed me to wear it more natural. Meg is awesome. Full of knowledge and gave me a great cut and beautiful pintura highlights. She gave me great tips on taking care of my hair. I can't say enough good things. Studio is beautiful too. read more

I LOVE MEG!! Never have I ever had such a beautiful cut I'm the only one in my family with curly hair so I was never taught the proper way to take care of it. Meg is super patient and super knowledgeable and put me at ease instantly. I will follow her to the end of the earth. For the customer that posted her bad review, thank you. Less of Meg for you means more of Meg for us. Thanks for the solid. #MoreMeg read more

Meg is amazing! Thanks to her my hair looks fabulous. She's educated me on how to fully hydrate my curls. I can't believe I spent so many years struggling with my hair. Wish I met Meg years earlier. read more

Gave this 3 stars because although she did a nice job and explained things well the service/cut I received was simply not worth $130 price tag. I recommend going to her if your hair is in need of some serious damage control but if all you're looking for is a nice trim and a bit of shaping it really isn't worth it. read more

Meg is very polite, easy to talk to, informative and really knows her stuff. One of the best parts about the experience is she makes it easy. She has you apply the products yourself, after showing you of course on one side and sends you home with a step-by-step routine based on your hair type/needs. She has made this new experience for me very simple and made me feel extremely comfortable now caring for and styling my hair myself. Leaving her salon I felt much more educated and confident that I could achieve the same results at home. HIGHLY recommend. read more

I have been on this curly hair journey since February 2017 and been searching for a stylist for a couple months. I read reviews and came across Meg I could not be more happier!! The salon is so relaxing the place is by appointment only so your not sitting in a place with a bunch of people waiting around. She was very informative on how to achieve better curls and how to style my hair. What I enjoyed the most was styling my own hair so I can achieve the curls at home. She walked me through every step and emailed me the steps as well. She also showed me what to look for when testing my current products as well as new ones. I will be back thanks Meg!! read more