Hair

There are those telling us that it’s great to be grey. Sporting a head of grey hair is what I’m talking about. Not so sure I’m buying it. I don’t “feel” my age and I think going grey would make me appear much older than I “feel”.

Supposedly ditching the dye doesn’t mean loosing your looks or sabotaging being sexy. Admittedly, I have seen women who’s grey hair looks great, but I have seen far more women who’s all natural grey look does not look so great.

While some women say that going grey is liberating and saves a ton of time and money; it can still feel like a risky option for many women who feel that grey will age their appearance and cause career or relationship problems. Sometimes it’s perceived that they have just given up.

Going grey is quite a controversial choice, because we tend to associate grey hair with old age. Some stylists will argue that the right grey color can take years off a woman’s age. Give them a trendy haircut and it makes them look younger as well as being liberating.

Jamie Lee Curtis, at age 49 was one who decided to go grey. She is probably the only Hollywood star under 60 boasting grey hair. Jamie says it has not had a negative effect on her career. In one case, she offered to wear a wig for a part and the director chose to go with her natural hair color.

Meryl Streep went grey last year to play Miranda Priestly, the icy, cold Vogue editor in the blockbuster movie, The Devil Wears Prada, showing women everywhere that grey could be both sexy and powerful. There are other famous women sporting the grey look these days such as Vanessa Redgrave and Emmylou Harris.

While some have proven you can be glamorous with grey hair, it takes courage to make this move. And short hair looks best grey, a classic haircut like a bob or wedge, something which makes the most of your features. Long grey hair just does not look that great, typically.

Men are fortunate, their grey hair can be a positive attraction, they are considered distinguished or a “silver fox”. For men grey hair can signify wealth, power and sophistication.

My personal philosophy? I believe there is a reason God gave us hair color. Enough said!

Almost every woman is concerned about the look of her hair. To have great hair, you need great hair care products to keep your hair looking its absolute best all of the time. There was a time when I was ignorant and thought professional salon products were the same thing you could pick up at the drug store, only the price was much higher. Well, having used the drug store products and now having used the professional products for many years, I can tell you there is a vast difference and I would never go back to using the drug store variety!

So, with many products on the market designed for different hair types and styles, how do you choose which ones are perfect for your hair? You must have a good idea what will work best with your hair type. Your hair stylist can help you select what’s best for your hair. When she/he is working with your hair, ask about everything she/he is using, thet will be happy to share that information with you. A good stylist will tell you, this is what I have used for this purpose. Then she/he should ask if you have these items at home for proper maintenance. Obviously different types of hair and styles will call for different products.

First, find the right combination of shampoo and conditioner. Choose those that improve your hair type. This is just the beginning! Again, get your stylist imput on this. There are other products to meet your hair care needs such as hairsprays, gels and mousse, a good quality bush, a wide-toothed comb, shine serums, a blow dryer, curling iron, etc.

Today, there has been a big change in the choice for hair care products. The majority of people avoid synthetic products and are choosing natural solutions , free of harmful chemicals. Pureology is a great example of a line of salon products that are effective with out harmful chemicals.

You should stay away from products that contain high levels of alcohol which is very drying to the hair. Watch what you put on your hair, get safe products for good results.

Whatever your hairstyle, experiment with new products to find new hairstyling possibilities. You may be amazed with the results and surprised by the simplicity of hair styling thanks to some of todays great products.

Because of the internet, comparing hair care products is easier than ever. You can do your research in the comfort of your own home!

If time is a factor and you can’t do the research, again, talk with your professional stylist, she/he will have been trained on all of the product lines their salon is carrying. It is possible to have great hair, today and everyday!

There is a lot of buzz in the industry and on the street about hair extensions. This is a general overview of hair extensions, why you may want them, how to care for them, and where to get them.

Hair extensions can be used for several reasons. Perhaps you have never been able to have long, luxurious hair because your hair is thin and only grows to a point before breaking off. Maybe you just want long hair and you want it now. Sometimes the time and effort of growing out your hair is just too overwhelming. If you just want your hair long for an evening or special occasion, there are inexpensive clip on hair extensions available in retail stores.

If, on the other hand, you want beautiful, permanent human hair extensions, which will not harm your own hair, have a professional from the salon put your extensions in for you. Extensions are not cheap but are well worth the cost because they are just like your own hair! Some salons such as Fantasia, use Great Lengths Extensions, which are used in Hollywood. They are known as the Rolls Royce of Extensions for many reasons, but one for certain is that they don’t harm your hair.

There are actually many types of hair extensions. Some are made from 100% human hair such as the Great Lengths. Others are 100% synthetics and still others are a mixture of human and synthetic. Also, extensions are applied differently. Some are attached to a hand tied weft and sewn in. Some such as Great Lengths are bonded to your hair with a special tool and hot adhesives which come bonded to the extensions. Then there are the Accents which are cyberhair and are secured with a minuscule clamp. All of these types of hair extensions must be attached by a professional hair dresser or hair extension specialist.

The life expectancy of the extensions is typically from three to four months. Longer than this and the extensions may begin to loosen and fall off or, the hair can become matted. Really, how long the extensions are kept in is a matter of personal preference.

Your hair dresser will talk with you regarding caring for your extensions. There are some key things you must do for proper maintenance:

• Wash your hair twice weekly and follow with conditioner. A good deep conditioner is recommended.
• Care for your extensions as if they were your own hair. They will not grow back if yanked with a brush, don’t burn them with the blow dryer or kill them with chemicals.
• If you hair is long, try to always sleep with a ponytail to prevent knotting and tangling issues.
• Brush out all knots before you wash your hair or swim. Start at the bottom and work your way up, slowly, using a loop brush. Never force a knot or tangle out unless you are willing to part with that extension.
• Make sure you wash in between the bond to keep your scalp clean and free of bacteria.

Monthly, your hair grows about an inch. The extensions will still be connected to your hair but will have grown out from your scalp. At this point you should return to the salon to have the extensions checked to make sure all is well.
How long can extensions be? You can have any length you want up to about 18-24 inches. Anything longer puts extra weight on your scalp which could lead to uneven pressure and damage to your own hair. the best looking hair extensions for most women are usually around 18″.

You can wear your hair up with extensions if you allow a one inch “buffer zone”. This will assure the extensions are completely undetectable which would be what you would want. You don’t ever want anyone to complement you on your hair extensions.

Do your research when locating a salon for hair extensions. Ask questions as to the type of extensions they are using and how they are attached. Ask to see before and after photos. Make sure their cosmetology license is current. Ask how often the average client is replacing their extensions. It pays to do your due diligence as its an investment but something you will enjoy immensely if you have a good experience.

Beware if a salon is giving you extension prices over the phone. Most salon professionals will ask you to come in for a consultation so they can see exactly what you are looking to accomplish before quoting you a price. There are many variables which will determine the price for your extensions. How long is your natural hair, does your hair need to be colored, what length/style are you looking for etc.

So, if you want the long, lush hair you have been dreaming of, think hair extensions. Who says you have to wait for your hair to grow out?

Remember shivering in winter’s cold and praying for heat? Well, it’s finally here! Heat is a good thing. It induces sweating and is said to increase circulation, cleanse our pores, soothe and relaxes, make muscles more supple and provides pain relief. Here are things you can do for your hair, your skin and yourself as you enjoy the summer heat.

Deep condition your hair. When your hair cuticles becomes dry and damaged, the result is a dry, frizzy look. Deep conditioning allows the cuticles to lay flat, restoring shine and youth. If you don’t want to take the time and effort this requires, make an appointment at the salon and enjoy yourself by reading a good book or magazine while your treatment is processing.

Enjoy a facial mask. A facial masks will draw out impurities from beneath the top layer of the skin. Also it helps to unclog pores and exfoliate the dead skin cells from your face. It helps stimulate circulation and, will hydrate and protect your skin. Again, if you don’t want to go through the trouble of doing this at home, make an appointment at the salon to have a wonderful, relaxing facial. You could really indulge and have your deep conditioning hair treatment and your facial done on the same day. Some salons such as Fantasia, have special summer prices on facial packages.

Get your vitamin D, our bodies need vitamin D for optimal calcium absorption. Of course the best way to get your vitamin D is from the sun., Experts say 10-15 minutes per day in direct sunlight will keep your vitamin D levels optimal. Nowhere, however, does it say to expose your face, neck, chest and hands, which are the areas that can show age the most.  Use sunscreen or keep them covered.

Exercise outdoors! In the winter we are forced to exercise indoors for months on end. With summer comes the opportunity to enjoy the fresh air and warmth while exercising. Take a walk! Do your workout in the morning or evening and avoid the hottest part of the day. Be sure to keep your body well hydrated, drink water.

Be a kid again! Take a walk just to see what there is to see! For half an hour or so on a beautiful summer day, go exploring! Notice the sights, the sounds and the smells! Observe the kids laughing and playing, watch for birds and butterflies. Just take it all in. Remember you won’t be able to do this in a few months!

Enjoy the warmth and slower pace of the season. It’s good for the soul.

Heat and humidity can be tough on the hair, especially if your hair is dry and has been colored. Here are some tips which can help to prevent brittleness, split ends and faded color.

• Start the season off with healthy hair. Get a good cut now to remove any split ends. If your hair is dry, consider having a deep conditioning treatment. This will be a small but worth while investment.
• Stay conditioned by using moisturizing shampoos and conditioners several times per week to fight the dryness caused by the sun. Leave-in conditioners are good choices for days you know you will be hanging out at the beach or the pool.
• Be protective by selecting and using shampoos, creams and other products that contain sunscreens. Hats and bathing caps can also safeguard your hair.
• Skip the heat. In the summer season, when styling your hair, try to avoidthe use of blow dryers, hot rollers and curling irons as much as possible. If you must use one of these, apply a heat-activated styling product to guard against too much drying.
• Don’t be tight. Pulling your hair back, especially when wet, into tight ponytails on a regular basis causes breakage. Try looser styles using headbands and clips.
• Wash you hair after swimming. At the very least, rinse your hair after getting out of the pool. If you are a frequent swimmer, try an anti-chlorine shampoo.
• Put off coloring. Color treated hair often fades and dries quickly when exposed to direct sunlight. Consider waiting until Fall for your new color. Otherwise, wear hats or wraps and shop for shampoos and styling products containing vitamins such as A, C and E to protect colored hair.

Some of these things may seem simple. But, several simple things, if practiced regularly, can yield dramatic results! Enjoy your summer!

Want to make some exciting changes to your hair color? Here are some things you should know before taking the plunge.

If you are a brunette, you may want to stay with a similar color or add other dimensions of dark color if you are a low-maintenance kind of gal. Stay away from hairspray if possible and try some of the hair serums to add a wonderful sheen.

If Lindsay Lohan’s flaming red hair excites you, check your skin tone first before trying a similar color. Women who get away with this attention getting color are either fair skinned or dark, never in between.

If you are paying for red color, avoid sun exposure and harsh shampoos and you will lengthen the radiance of your color. Hot oil treatments are good and blow drying should be minimal or not at all to help preserve color.

Are you thinking about blond or blond highlights? Get ready to spend some time at the salon. Blond is a very high maintenance color and the darker your natural color, the greater the upkeep.

If your hair is naturally dark and you go blond; think of having three shades added instead of just one. This will add dimension to your hair and not give you the look of wearing a wig.

Another thing to think about. If you change your hair color you may need to change your makeup. Brunettes should pile on black mascara. And don’t be afraid of using fun jewel tones on your eyes. If you are feeling brave you could try some of the new neon colors. Balance with a natural color blush and a barely there lip color.

For redheads, light shades with no eye shadow are best. This way the attention is not diverted from the beautiful hair. A pink light lip gloss would be good; again to keep all the attention on the hair. Blondes should go easy on the eyes with the exception of the mascara. Red lipstick is good for for that extra sex appeal look for the blonde’s.

No matter what shade of color you chose, it’s important to have fun with your hair. Change is good, with today’s wide range of colors, it’s never been easier. There are hair experts just waiting to help you make this change, it’s just a salon appointment away!

Let’s talk about another trend in the beauty industry. This time it’s hair and big bountiful “Barbie” hair to be exact. This is THE look for this summer. This can be terrifying for those with less than impressive locks.

Hair extensions to the rescue! If you are going to go the route of hair extensions, due your research, all are not created equal and some can actually damage your hair! Who’s wearing extensions these days? Probably lots of women in Hollywood–think Jennifer Aniston, Elle Macpherson, Britney Spears, Naomi Campbell to name a few.

With hair extensions, it’s kind of like plastic surgery, you are not supposed to notice them. A great set of extensions can do as much for you as lipo or Botox according to one of the celebrity stylists. They make you look younger, sexier and even thinner.

Today’s trend is to use subtle extensions to add color or volume rather than unrealistic lengths. The look you don’t want is theatrical waist long hair that looks cheap and dated. The cool thing about extensions is that they are versatile: you can instantly add a fringe, double the thickness of your real hair and correct a bad haircut.

Since extensions can damage your hair if not done right, it’s important that you have them done by a professional. You can get traction alopecia if too much extension is put on too little hair. Also, it’s not good to leave them in too long. They may last for six months but it’s best to take them out in three. From personal experience I can tell you this is important unless you want major “mats” in your hair!

Go for the best you can afford, extensions are pricey. They are made from human hair so that they blend with your real hair. Great Lengths are the Rolls-Royce of hair extensions, these would be my recommendation. They are less likely to shed when brushing as other brands will. However there are tons of extensions on the market today. If you want to do it yourself, there are even clip on extensions on the market.

So, if you have short hair and you want the “Barbie Hair” think about hair extensions. Today, the possibilities are limitless. Go ahead, flaunt your new crop of extensions, only your hairdresser will know they are not the real deal!

Long hair, short hair. What’s cool, what’s not? Earlier this year, the runways predicted darling haircuts for summer and fall and now we are starting to see it.

This season, hairstyles will incorporate a variety of textures, from curly to crimped. Rodney Cutler, celebrity hairstylist, is excited about this. It’s all about blending evening elegance with a casual sensibility, he says. It should look like something a woman could create herself, at home. He says ” the beauty of fashion these days is that it really is attainable, it is quite manageable at home, with simple styling techniques and the right products.”

By fall, according to Cutler, think “deconstructed glam” -brushed out, disheveled waves and curls, high ponytails, messy buns, all with a 1970’s airy, matte texture. He says the hairstyling world is undergoing a significant change.

International Hair stylist Rick Lee, feels that short hair is the best style statement for a woman. “Short hair shows a woman’s full face and makes her look more beautiful and confident. People have a perception that short hair looks boyish on women. I think nothing can be more feminine than short hair.

Cutler, mentioned above, talks about some of his favorite celebrity hairstyles. “Demi Moore gets it. Her hair is long and heavy on her face but it looks amazing. Donald Trump knows how ridiculous his hair is but he likes it. Culter would love to dig his shears in to Cameron Diaz’s hair. He says, with really short hair, she’d be fantastic!

The everyday woman shouldn’t be a slave to fashion. She doesn’t have to be trendy, she just has to look amazing!