The colorful bottles standing at attention on the shelves in the hair care aisle bristle with promise, don't they? In that they all promise you something if you'll but give them a chance. Some promise cleaner hair. Others shinier hair. Others still say they'll make your crowing glory more manageable in one way or another.
Still, given many of these bottles contain mostly water how likely is it they can seriously enhance the look of your flowing locks? Not to mention the effect the mysterious sounding ingredients listed on the label can have on your hair - good or bad.
Those selling these products, and that would include your neighborhood stylist, insist that today's hair care products are better than they ever have been. They work more reliably, do so with fewer harsh chemicals plus most do what they say they will.
Salon chatter aside, you can still get caught up in the upsell hype and pay too much for a salon product when there's a perfectly good equivalent waiting for you at the drug store. How do you avoid that costly mistake? And how can you really know for sure what you're putting on your hair?
Well, instead of downing ice cream by the quart worrying about it, let's see if we can't shed some light on the subject.
Basically you can pigeon hole most hair care products into three broad categories. There are cleansers. There are conditioners. And there are the so called after care or finishing products.
The number of products in each category has exploded over the years. In part because we've gone from washing our hair maybe once a week back in your parents' day to where most guys lather up daily. And the typical gal will shampoo her hair roughly every other day.
Combine this more frequent washing will all the coloring, perming and straightening going on and you can see why there has been a proliferation of products to counteract all the damage being inflicted on our hair. Not to mention the effect flat irons, curling irons and hair dryers are having on your mane.
Yet when you get right down to it, all conditioners and shampoos pretty much follow the same witches brew. Were you to check out the recipes, errrrr I mean formulations, you'd basically see all have got your cleaners, your lathering agents, fragrances and preservatives all mixed together in varying amounts.
Yet do you really need to be adding things like cyclopentasiloxane, glycerol stearate, cocamidopropyl, ethylparaben to your tresses?
Well the first one allegedly smoothes your hair.
The second is an emulsifier that keeps all the ingredients mixed together.
The third is a detergent.
And the fourth chemical is a preservative that deters the growth of bacteria.
Now don't you wish you had paid more attention during high school chemistry class? Suffice it to say some ingredients are critical to great looking hair and others not so much. But they do help with the marketing of the product.
Yet all this may not matter. You simply want results. You want the product to do what it promises. And to be honest I really can't help you there with specifics or recommendations. At least not in a brief overview of what hair care products do or do not contain. Besides it would be kinda silly not knowing your tresses the way you know then.
Okay so these products may not improve your love life as the ads suggest but you still want to know that others are watching. Casting admiring glances. Some envious ones too. All the while wondering what they can do to have hair that looks as great as yours. And if you can pull that off, it may not really matter what you're putting on your hair. Am I right? Of course I am.
Showing posts with label hair care. Show all posts
Showing posts with label hair care. Show all posts
Monday, September 17, 2012
Sunday, September 2, 2012
You Don't Have to Suffer From Do-It-Yourself Hair
Don't you just hate those friends of yours who seem to look effortlessly hot and sexy?
There's nothing do-it-yourself looking about them.
Hair perfect.
Makeup flawless.
Teeth blindingly white.
What's up with that? Surely there must be more to looking coolly chic and looking like there's nothing to it?
There is actually. And if you'd like to achieve the "hey, check me out" look effortlessly too, maybe some hair care secrets for doing so might be helpful so keep reading. Some very useful tips that can help you declare your independence from do-it-yourself hair are coming right up.
Tips For Hair That Is Sophisticated, Smart And Downright Gorgeous
First things first. Believe it or not, oh-so-stylish hair begins when you're sitting in the stylist's chair. No it's not what you think. There really are tips you can pick up that you can do yourself. So you want to pay attention to what's being done when and with what.
Yeah I hear you. While it can be oh so relaxing to have someone else in charge of styling your hair you won't learn much if you zone out and don't watch they are doing. You can actually learn quite a lot if you like watch which brush is used, knowing that a round brush produces a different outcome than a flat one. Or when hair spray is used as opposed to styling gel. Tidbits like this becomes all the more important when you are feverishly, or is that desperately?, working to replicate that salon look at home.
Next you'll want to see if salon quality shampoos work better with your hair than drug store brands. Some may. Some may not. Regardless, the trick here is not to be in a hurry when sudsing away. You got it. You want to lather up for a couple two three minutes just like your stylist does for you. (Or at the very least 30 seconds. Surely you aren't in THAT big of a hurry!) Taking care to massage the cleanser through your hair thoroughly. Especially the hair nearest your scalp while taking pains to attend to every strand.
Second, be sure to rinse your hair completely. 100%. Or no suds left behind. Because there is nothing worse than left over shampoo residue weighing your hair down. Robbing it of volume and oomph.
Third, water temp is key. Sure you may love to luxuriate in a hot steamy shower. But guess what? Your hair doesn't care for it so much. Let's assume that asking YOU to give up the hot shower routine is asking too much. Got it. Then you want to wash your hair in the sink using lukewarm water.
Here's why.
Hot water raises the cuticles and expands the hair shaft. This in turn aids in the escape of hair dye. Plus it doesn't do much for the shine factor either. You avoid all that unpleasantness by washing your locks in water that would be at best described as baby bottle warm.
Another point about water temp. Go cooler still when conditioning only. And keep a wide toothed comb handy for when conditioning too. The idea is to comb the conditioner through your tresses after you've toweled most of the water out. And much like the shampoo routine, you don't want to rush the product. Give it a good two or three minutes to do its job before you completely get it out of your hair.
A fifth pointer to tattoo to your forehead is that shampooing too often can dry your mane. Yet it seems like shampooing every day is in our DNA, doesn't it? It's a right we have and we do all we can to exercise it. Problem is your hair pays the price when all that sudsing up leads to dry, damaged hair.
Granted how often is not quite as simple as some simple rule you learn then apply. The bigger idea is less often is better. And whatever the frequency is that works best for you you'll likely find it holds more often than not that less is more.
Salon Pointer: Don't get lazy when it comes to maintaining your style. Fact is there is nothing worse than trying to control hair that has grown out somewhat, lost its shape, and is borderline wild and crazy. Let's be honest. It's doubtful you're up to the challenge. Besides challenging hair is the last thing we need. To avoid all this grief make regular appointments as the challenge of styling a cut that has outgrown its style is more than most of us can manage. This holds regardless if you tend to wear your hair up, down, straight or curly.
How to Use Your Blow Dryer To Get A Little Oomph
Okay now no overview of how to get the look you want would be complete without talking about your blow dryer. Sadly many of us experience an epic fail here and so our locks are doomed from the start. That might be because again we're in too big of a hurry to click on the blow dryer taking aim at our wet locks before they have been properly prepped? (I hope you're getting this that being in too much of a hurry is seldom good for our mane.)
Prepped? What does that mean? Glad you asked.
You never want to blow dry hair that hasn't been towel dried from top to bottom. Clicking on and pointing the blow dryer at hair that is still drippy wet isn't smart. Once you've accomplished that towel dry stuff, you want to focus the dryer on the roots FIRST. Yet jumping into styling too soon is another "hurry up" mistake too many make. Instead take aim at the roots and lift your hair with a round brush at the same time to blow in the volume.
You see, here's the problem with directing the hot air on the lower part of your strands first and then getting around to the roots later. You'll have a hard time avoiding flatness near the scalp. And flat roots don't do much for any style no matter how great it looks on the celeb in the photo you saw.
For even more body, shoot to dry your locks in the opposite direction you will wear them. For example if you normally wear your bangs from left to right, initially dry them going the other direction. Then flip them when the moisture is about blown away.
Also avoid the maximum power setting. You want to use only enough heated air to do the job. And if you towel off your hair first, the required setting will be well below the blast to the max setting.
Granted, to get the most from your blow drying takes practice. No doubt about it. But the results of that practice (practice makes perfect?) can be most gratifying.
And while it seems to many the magic only happens in the salon, you can make the magic happen at home if you'll but follow tips like these.
Anyway, the next time you find yourself staring at the mirror, your fingers sticky with foamy mousse, arms weary from blow drying remember what you read here. Hair freedom is possible. You don't have to be stuck with a terminal case of do-it-yourself hair. In many cases all you need do is take your time and take care with your hair to get the hot look you want.
There's nothing do-it-yourself looking about them.
Hair perfect.
Makeup flawless.
Teeth blindingly white.
What's up with that? Surely there must be more to looking coolly chic and looking like there's nothing to it?
There is actually. And if you'd like to achieve the "hey, check me out" look effortlessly too, maybe some hair care secrets for doing so might be helpful so keep reading. Some very useful tips that can help you declare your independence from do-it-yourself hair are coming right up.
Tips For Hair That Is Sophisticated, Smart And Downright Gorgeous
First things first. Believe it or not, oh-so-stylish hair begins when you're sitting in the stylist's chair. No it's not what you think. There really are tips you can pick up that you can do yourself. So you want to pay attention to what's being done when and with what.
Yeah I hear you. While it can be oh so relaxing to have someone else in charge of styling your hair you won't learn much if you zone out and don't watch they are doing. You can actually learn quite a lot if you like watch which brush is used, knowing that a round brush produces a different outcome than a flat one. Or when hair spray is used as opposed to styling gel. Tidbits like this becomes all the more important when you are feverishly, or is that desperately?, working to replicate that salon look at home.
Next you'll want to see if salon quality shampoos work better with your hair than drug store brands. Some may. Some may not. Regardless, the trick here is not to be in a hurry when sudsing away. You got it. You want to lather up for a couple two three minutes just like your stylist does for you. (Or at the very least 30 seconds. Surely you aren't in THAT big of a hurry!) Taking care to massage the cleanser through your hair thoroughly. Especially the hair nearest your scalp while taking pains to attend to every strand.
Second, be sure to rinse your hair completely. 100%. Or no suds left behind. Because there is nothing worse than left over shampoo residue weighing your hair down. Robbing it of volume and oomph.
Third, water temp is key. Sure you may love to luxuriate in a hot steamy shower. But guess what? Your hair doesn't care for it so much. Let's assume that asking YOU to give up the hot shower routine is asking too much. Got it. Then you want to wash your hair in the sink using lukewarm water.
Here's why.
Hot water raises the cuticles and expands the hair shaft. This in turn aids in the escape of hair dye. Plus it doesn't do much for the shine factor either. You avoid all that unpleasantness by washing your locks in water that would be at best described as baby bottle warm.
Another point about water temp. Go cooler still when conditioning only. And keep a wide toothed comb handy for when conditioning too. The idea is to comb the conditioner through your tresses after you've toweled most of the water out. And much like the shampoo routine, you don't want to rush the product. Give it a good two or three minutes to do its job before you completely get it out of your hair.
A fifth pointer to tattoo to your forehead is that shampooing too often can dry your mane. Yet it seems like shampooing every day is in our DNA, doesn't it? It's a right we have and we do all we can to exercise it. Problem is your hair pays the price when all that sudsing up leads to dry, damaged hair.
Granted how often is not quite as simple as some simple rule you learn then apply. The bigger idea is less often is better. And whatever the frequency is that works best for you you'll likely find it holds more often than not that less is more.
Salon Pointer: Don't get lazy when it comes to maintaining your style. Fact is there is nothing worse than trying to control hair that has grown out somewhat, lost its shape, and is borderline wild and crazy. Let's be honest. It's doubtful you're up to the challenge. Besides challenging hair is the last thing we need. To avoid all this grief make regular appointments as the challenge of styling a cut that has outgrown its style is more than most of us can manage. This holds regardless if you tend to wear your hair up, down, straight or curly.
How to Use Your Blow Dryer To Get A Little Oomph
Okay now no overview of how to get the look you want would be complete without talking about your blow dryer. Sadly many of us experience an epic fail here and so our locks are doomed from the start. That might be because again we're in too big of a hurry to click on the blow dryer taking aim at our wet locks before they have been properly prepped? (I hope you're getting this that being in too much of a hurry is seldom good for our mane.)
Prepped? What does that mean? Glad you asked.
You never want to blow dry hair that hasn't been towel dried from top to bottom. Clicking on and pointing the blow dryer at hair that is still drippy wet isn't smart. Once you've accomplished that towel dry stuff, you want to focus the dryer on the roots FIRST. Yet jumping into styling too soon is another "hurry up" mistake too many make. Instead take aim at the roots and lift your hair with a round brush at the same time to blow in the volume.
You see, here's the problem with directing the hot air on the lower part of your strands first and then getting around to the roots later. You'll have a hard time avoiding flatness near the scalp. And flat roots don't do much for any style no matter how great it looks on the celeb in the photo you saw.
For even more body, shoot to dry your locks in the opposite direction you will wear them. For example if you normally wear your bangs from left to right, initially dry them going the other direction. Then flip them when the moisture is about blown away.
Also avoid the maximum power setting. You want to use only enough heated air to do the job. And if you towel off your hair first, the required setting will be well below the blast to the max setting.
Granted, to get the most from your blow drying takes practice. No doubt about it. But the results of that practice (practice makes perfect?) can be most gratifying.
And while it seems to many the magic only happens in the salon, you can make the magic happen at home if you'll but follow tips like these.
Anyway, the next time you find yourself staring at the mirror, your fingers sticky with foamy mousse, arms weary from blow drying remember what you read here. Hair freedom is possible. You don't have to be stuck with a terminal case of do-it-yourself hair. In many cases all you need do is take your time and take care with your hair to get the hot look you want.
Monday, August 27, 2012
Keeping the Salon Look - What If Everybody's Wrong?
Do you know anyone who doesn't crave a stunning hairstyle? One that's perfectly suited for them and looks, well, amazing? This endless desire has spawned a slew of rules and styling dos and don'ts. All designed to help you know what to do to get that perfect 'do. Naturally everyone knows them. But what if everyone's wrong? Yeah, what if you're paying the equivalent of full price for half price advice?
One area rife with half truths is how to keep the just stepped out of the salon look at home. It's something we all want, that's for sure. Because we feel all hot and sexy what with all new look and all. But all too soon that look has vanished because perhaps we're following the wrong set of dos and don'ts.
For example everybody knows salon hair care products are better and may well be a better way to accomplish that salon look preservation. Sure, let's say that true. But from there is where the helpfulness usually goes astray. I mean, look, just because you get your cleanser from the salon doesn't guarantee a great outcome. It really comes down to how you use or misuse it.
You see most do not shampoo their hair like stylists tend to when your hair is flayed over a sink behind you. With these concentrated products it's truly a case of less is more. And then more is more. Meaning concentrated, yes. But fast action, no. You need to really massage it in and give it a couple of minutes of that massaging stuff to get the most out of it. Otherwise you're already on the path to the same old hair you had before your salon visit.
Everybody also knows that shampooing itself is vital. But another little known hindrance to maintaining your salon look is shampooing too much. Sure no one wants to be walking around with greasy and disgusting hair. But do you really have to wash as often as some of your friends will insist? Likely not. If you're got stick straight locks every other day may be more than frequent enough. While mop tops may be able to go two or three days between shampoo sessions. The risk is dryness. And we both know dry hair doesn't have that just stepped from the salon look.
Everybody knows about volumizing products that can add oodles of volume to your hair. And volume is something that can transform limp, lifeless hair overnight. What fewer seem to realize is that the path to lasting volume is paved with layers. As in layers cut into your hair that leaves you with locks that effortlessly hold the volume all day long.
Then too everybody knows having a good hair brush is vitally important. Unless you have curly locks and then not so much. But if we all know that why do we fall short and get some cheap, flimsy brush rather than investing in one that's up to the job.
Okay so everybody thinks they know the dos and don'ts. But as these few examples show, it turns out too many don't know and thus unwittingly sabotage their most earnest desire, to duplicate the salon look at home. Does that go for you too?
One area rife with half truths is how to keep the just stepped out of the salon look at home. It's something we all want, that's for sure. Because we feel all hot and sexy what with all new look and all. But all too soon that look has vanished because perhaps we're following the wrong set of dos and don'ts.
For example everybody knows salon hair care products are better and may well be a better way to accomplish that salon look preservation. Sure, let's say that true. But from there is where the helpfulness usually goes astray. I mean, look, just because you get your cleanser from the salon doesn't guarantee a great outcome. It really comes down to how you use or misuse it.
You see most do not shampoo their hair like stylists tend to when your hair is flayed over a sink behind you. With these concentrated products it's truly a case of less is more. And then more is more. Meaning concentrated, yes. But fast action, no. You need to really massage it in and give it a couple of minutes of that massaging stuff to get the most out of it. Otherwise you're already on the path to the same old hair you had before your salon visit.
Everybody also knows that shampooing itself is vital. But another little known hindrance to maintaining your salon look is shampooing too much. Sure no one wants to be walking around with greasy and disgusting hair. But do you really have to wash as often as some of your friends will insist? Likely not. If you're got stick straight locks every other day may be more than frequent enough. While mop tops may be able to go two or three days between shampoo sessions. The risk is dryness. And we both know dry hair doesn't have that just stepped from the salon look.
Everybody knows about volumizing products that can add oodles of volume to your hair. And volume is something that can transform limp, lifeless hair overnight. What fewer seem to realize is that the path to lasting volume is paved with layers. As in layers cut into your hair that leaves you with locks that effortlessly hold the volume all day long.
Then too everybody knows having a good hair brush is vitally important. Unless you have curly locks and then not so much. But if we all know that why do we fall short and get some cheap, flimsy brush rather than investing in one that's up to the job.
Okay so everybody thinks they know the dos and don'ts. But as these few examples show, it turns out too many don't know and thus unwittingly sabotage their most earnest desire, to duplicate the salon look at home. Does that go for you too?
Why Treat Your Hair to a Healthy Diet
Did someone call 911 because they thought you had murdered your hair?
Sorry to hear that. Too often rather than having the thick, luscious, manageable mane you were hoping for, you end up with an oily. flat, or an otherwise disappointing hair disaster. That's made all the worse (if that's even possible) when heat and humidity settle in for the summer.
But maybe instead of sudden homicide your hair suffered a death from a thousand cuts. Coming in the form of too much junk food and not enough good for you food? Could be, you know.
So rather than 911 maybe you need some 411 time. Because just because your locks have fallen flat, literally, you don't have to take that lying down. There are things you can do to fight back and bring your hair back to life.
Okay so can we agree that while a well balanced diet is good for you it's especially good for your hair? So if you want to bring it back to life kick the fast food to the curb and learn to eat healthy.
For starters, you want to spend way more time in the produce section of the grocery store making friends with fresh fruits and vegetables. Yeah, I know, just like mom used to say.
And don't forget the vegetable proteins. That would include legumes or peas, beans, peanuts and the like. These guys rate high on the good for you meter. Plus they are low fat yet loaded with B vitamins, antioxidants, zine and iron, in addition to the proteins - all of which is great for your hair.
So getting reacquainted with what's to be found in the produce section is a good first step. And a good second step. Third would be whole grain food along with fish. While cutting back on the animal fats which are often are found in abundance in fast food. That and sugar and sodium which as you know are kind of low on the good for you scale.
Oh and don't forget to stay hydrated. Knocking back lots of water is smart here too. Let's make that step four, shall we?
Stick with this plan for a measly four to six weeks and I can just about guarantee your hair will look shiner and all around healthier. And if you're not careful you'll look way better too. Not to mention feel better, sexier, with more energetic. Shiny locks and high energy girl? What's not to like?
Even better is when your friends, or those less than friends, are primed and ready to make fun of your hair and you rob them of the opportunity, well just imagine how good that will feel.
Sorry to hear that. Too often rather than having the thick, luscious, manageable mane you were hoping for, you end up with an oily. flat, or an otherwise disappointing hair disaster. That's made all the worse (if that's even possible) when heat and humidity settle in for the summer.
But maybe instead of sudden homicide your hair suffered a death from a thousand cuts. Coming in the form of too much junk food and not enough good for you food? Could be, you know.
So rather than 911 maybe you need some 411 time. Because just because your locks have fallen flat, literally, you don't have to take that lying down. There are things you can do to fight back and bring your hair back to life.
Okay so can we agree that while a well balanced diet is good for you it's especially good for your hair? So if you want to bring it back to life kick the fast food to the curb and learn to eat healthy.
For starters, you want to spend way more time in the produce section of the grocery store making friends with fresh fruits and vegetables. Yeah, I know, just like mom used to say.
And don't forget the vegetable proteins. That would include legumes or peas, beans, peanuts and the like. These guys rate high on the good for you meter. Plus they are low fat yet loaded with B vitamins, antioxidants, zine and iron, in addition to the proteins - all of which is great for your hair.
So getting reacquainted with what's to be found in the produce section is a good first step. And a good second step. Third would be whole grain food along with fish. While cutting back on the animal fats which are often are found in abundance in fast food. That and sugar and sodium which as you know are kind of low on the good for you scale.
Oh and don't forget to stay hydrated. Knocking back lots of water is smart here too. Let's make that step four, shall we?
Stick with this plan for a measly four to six weeks and I can just about guarantee your hair will look shiner and all around healthier. And if you're not careful you'll look way better too. Not to mention feel better, sexier, with more energetic. Shiny locks and high energy girl? What's not to like?
Even better is when your friends, or those less than friends, are primed and ready to make fun of your hair and you rob them of the opportunity, well just imagine how good that will feel.
Sunday, August 19, 2012
Sexy Hair Secrets Your Stylist Might Have Forgot to Mention
Mornings can be so hectic. You're in a race to get yourself ready for work or school and it's one you can't afford to lose.
Yet if you aren't careful you can easily get sidetracked by problems with your hair. Problems that can slow you down as you head for the finish line - as in out the door and on the road. Ideally leaving yourself with enough time so that you won't have to use those NASCAR-like driving skills you may or may not possess to make up for lost time as you try to touch up your eye liner in the rear view mirror. Been there. Done that.
Facing that kind of pressure in the bathroom each morning during your beauty routine leaves little room for error. Sure a routine helps. Having first rate products that do the job as intended helps even more. Understanding what you need helps most of all. Since it makes all the rest fall into place better than a first rate make up organizer that's cute besides.
Otherwise what can I say? In the midst of the chaos you'll have to learn that the screaming you hear is you. But let's not go there. To help you avoid that, here's a short list of hair care stuff you should ALWAYS find in a well-stocked bathroom. Stuff that can help you avoid a morning hair meltdown.
For starters, moisturizing shampoo should be more common than Ramen noodles are in a college dorm. I mean given how prevalent dry hair is, and that should be no surprise given the ongoing love affair we have with hot styling tools, you need something to combat dry tresses. The right moisturizing shampoo does just what the label claims. It adds badly needs moisture, most likely in the form of conditioners and oils, so you have better manageability of your locks. Good for any hair type, it's essential for those coping with damaged, colored or otherwise processed hair.
Another bit of advice crossing the lips of a decent hair styling pro would be conditioner. Be it your run of the mill product, something for deep conditioning or a member of the leave in family. Some would hasten to point out the right one of these can save you precious time too. Since it can do double duty, as in help you detangle, soften, or shine up your mane.
I think I mentioned hot styling tools or what some consider to be a Godsend, didn't I? Yet anyone who uses them regularly (and who doesn't?) should become very familiar with thermal protectants and/or serums. If not all hope is lost since what these do is shield your strands from the heat. This protects your hair from breakage, split ends and other unwanted shine stealers. Ideally you want something that is both heat activated and alcohol free. Because given how often you should be using products like these, you'll risk drying out your hair if they aren't.
Now finishing products help hold the look you achieved together. In other words volumizing mousse, hair spray, gel and the like. Just don't get carried away here. Like some heat protectors, many of these are alcohol laden and can undo in a heartbeat all the moisture adding you've been doing so faithfully.
But you know what? After a while all the finishing product application can catch up with you. This is why a good clarifying shampoo is also a must have. It strips all the built up gunk that your hair is hiding under. Scrubbing your stands clean as a whistle making them ready for another go. Again some of the these can be drying. So it's always smart to condition afterwards.
All right. then. I feel better. I've done my bit for women everywhere rushing around in the morning like their hair is on fire. Although if it really was, none of this is going to help to be honest. In that case dial 911.
Yet if you aren't careful you can easily get sidetracked by problems with your hair. Problems that can slow you down as you head for the finish line - as in out the door and on the road. Ideally leaving yourself with enough time so that you won't have to use those NASCAR-like driving skills you may or may not possess to make up for lost time as you try to touch up your eye liner in the rear view mirror. Been there. Done that.
Facing that kind of pressure in the bathroom each morning during your beauty routine leaves little room for error. Sure a routine helps. Having first rate products that do the job as intended helps even more. Understanding what you need helps most of all. Since it makes all the rest fall into place better than a first rate make up organizer that's cute besides.
Otherwise what can I say? In the midst of the chaos you'll have to learn that the screaming you hear is you. But let's not go there. To help you avoid that, here's a short list of hair care stuff you should ALWAYS find in a well-stocked bathroom. Stuff that can help you avoid a morning hair meltdown.
For starters, moisturizing shampoo should be more common than Ramen noodles are in a college dorm. I mean given how prevalent dry hair is, and that should be no surprise given the ongoing love affair we have with hot styling tools, you need something to combat dry tresses. The right moisturizing shampoo does just what the label claims. It adds badly needs moisture, most likely in the form of conditioners and oils, so you have better manageability of your locks. Good for any hair type, it's essential for those coping with damaged, colored or otherwise processed hair.
Another bit of advice crossing the lips of a decent hair styling pro would be conditioner. Be it your run of the mill product, something for deep conditioning or a member of the leave in family. Some would hasten to point out the right one of these can save you precious time too. Since it can do double duty, as in help you detangle, soften, or shine up your mane.
I think I mentioned hot styling tools or what some consider to be a Godsend, didn't I? Yet anyone who uses them regularly (and who doesn't?) should become very familiar with thermal protectants and/or serums. If not all hope is lost since what these do is shield your strands from the heat. This protects your hair from breakage, split ends and other unwanted shine stealers. Ideally you want something that is both heat activated and alcohol free. Because given how often you should be using products like these, you'll risk drying out your hair if they aren't.
Now finishing products help hold the look you achieved together. In other words volumizing mousse, hair spray, gel and the like. Just don't get carried away here. Like some heat protectors, many of these are alcohol laden and can undo in a heartbeat all the moisture adding you've been doing so faithfully.
But you know what? After a while all the finishing product application can catch up with you. This is why a good clarifying shampoo is also a must have. It strips all the built up gunk that your hair is hiding under. Scrubbing your stands clean as a whistle making them ready for another go. Again some of the these can be drying. So it's always smart to condition afterwards.
All right. then. I feel better. I've done my bit for women everywhere rushing around in the morning like their hair is on fire. Although if it really was, none of this is going to help to be honest. In that case dial 911.
Friday, August 17, 2012
Hair Care Lessons Learned the Hard Way
We've all seen the headlines while waiting in the checkout line. "Hair Advice You'd Be Crazy to Ignore" jumps out at you. Or the "7 Best Hair Tricks of All Time" or "Big Bang Theory: The Magic of Bangs" grace another magazine cover. Perhaps "How to Get Sexy Hair On Lazy Mornings" might have caught your eye.
And there's no disgrace to admit that on a particularly bad hair day you might have even thumbed through the glossy pages to get to the "11 Simple Ways To Beat Frizz, Plump up Limp Locks Or Tame Unruly Curls". Because it's only natural to want to look our best. And if there's a trick, tip or tool we can buy to easily get there so much the better. Even if you do discover it because of an article in a magazine.
Problem is when we over react to those bad hair days, now that's when we get into trouble.
Like the time you went for the second perm too soon to fix the damage inflicted by the first one. That smooth hair care move left you with hair that would make a hedgehog in heat proud. Your tresses were so dry and frizzy you just didn't know where to turn to tame them. And yet those magazine cover headlines like "The Ultimate Guide To Ravishing Hair" beckoned. Like there was some clue to be found on the inside pages that would solve THIS problem.
At panicked moments like this "What Celebrities Know About Hair Care That You Don't" matters not. I mean who can be seen out in public with hair a porcupine would be embarrassed by? It's at moments like that that we may make an ill-advised mayday call to our stylist. Tearfully begging for an appointment - like yesterday, to see if she can't cure what ails your locks.
And we silently rejoice inside when we hear the words we were hoping to hear, "Sure come in and let's see what we can do to help." Ah, blessed salvation from savaged hair is but hours away. Forgetting that she hasn't yet seen what's passing for hair on your head. Focusing instead on the hope of relief from your mane misery.
Sadly at this point you should have been asked if you wanted a blindfold or last cigarette. Since facing a firing squad might be a more appealing proposition to what was in store for you beauty wise. But in the heat of the moment, you grant permission for whatever it takes, even if whatever it takes means removing huge swaths of damaged strands.
And when you see the final product, you immediately think you've seen victims of a Texas Chainsaw Massacre that looked better. As apparently any dream of walking out of the salon sporting a sexy if shortish cut would have to wait for three inches of hair to grow to flesh out the look. Yes, it's that bad.
So while a random magazine cover may tout the "5 Hairstyles That Will Never Go Out Of Style", you are certain what you've got didn't make that list. As you'd hope the hair you're saddled with couldn't possibly have ever been in style. Unless it was in vogue by those sturdy pioneer women crossing the Oregon Trail or something. Who had more to worry about besides their hair. And had to survive without access to any sort of hotline for tormented tresses.
So the next time you see a magazine cover that teases with "How to Effortlessly Color Your Hair at Home", nod knowingly but secure in the knowledge you don't have the luxury of effortless color. Otherwise you might open yourself up to all knowing questions like...
"Is that your camping haircut?"
"Did you get that styled at the beauty college?"
"What happened? Was that haircut on sale?"
"Did you jump start your hair in the dark with jumper cables?"
"Don't worry, Dear. It will grow out. Eventually."
Certainly not words any woman longs to hear. And for sure you can bet they'll never grace the cover of the latest fashion magazine.
And there's no disgrace to admit that on a particularly bad hair day you might have even thumbed through the glossy pages to get to the "11 Simple Ways To Beat Frizz, Plump up Limp Locks Or Tame Unruly Curls". Because it's only natural to want to look our best. And if there's a trick, tip or tool we can buy to easily get there so much the better. Even if you do discover it because of an article in a magazine.
Problem is when we over react to those bad hair days, now that's when we get into trouble.
Like the time you went for the second perm too soon to fix the damage inflicted by the first one. That smooth hair care move left you with hair that would make a hedgehog in heat proud. Your tresses were so dry and frizzy you just didn't know where to turn to tame them. And yet those magazine cover headlines like "The Ultimate Guide To Ravishing Hair" beckoned. Like there was some clue to be found on the inside pages that would solve THIS problem.
At panicked moments like this "What Celebrities Know About Hair Care That You Don't" matters not. I mean who can be seen out in public with hair a porcupine would be embarrassed by? It's at moments like that that we may make an ill-advised mayday call to our stylist. Tearfully begging for an appointment - like yesterday, to see if she can't cure what ails your locks.
And we silently rejoice inside when we hear the words we were hoping to hear, "Sure come in and let's see what we can do to help." Ah, blessed salvation from savaged hair is but hours away. Forgetting that she hasn't yet seen what's passing for hair on your head. Focusing instead on the hope of relief from your mane misery.
Sadly at this point you should have been asked if you wanted a blindfold or last cigarette. Since facing a firing squad might be a more appealing proposition to what was in store for you beauty wise. But in the heat of the moment, you grant permission for whatever it takes, even if whatever it takes means removing huge swaths of damaged strands.
And when you see the final product, you immediately think you've seen victims of a Texas Chainsaw Massacre that looked better. As apparently any dream of walking out of the salon sporting a sexy if shortish cut would have to wait for three inches of hair to grow to flesh out the look. Yes, it's that bad.
So while a random magazine cover may tout the "5 Hairstyles That Will Never Go Out Of Style", you are certain what you've got didn't make that list. As you'd hope the hair you're saddled with couldn't possibly have ever been in style. Unless it was in vogue by those sturdy pioneer women crossing the Oregon Trail or something. Who had more to worry about besides their hair. And had to survive without access to any sort of hotline for tormented tresses.
So the next time you see a magazine cover that teases with "How to Effortlessly Color Your Hair at Home", nod knowingly but secure in the knowledge you don't have the luxury of effortless color. Otherwise you might open yourself up to all knowing questions like...
"Is that your camping haircut?"
"Did you get that styled at the beauty college?"
"What happened? Was that haircut on sale?"
"Did you jump start your hair in the dark with jumper cables?"
"Don't worry, Dear. It will grow out. Eventually."
Certainly not words any woman longs to hear. And for sure you can bet they'll never grace the cover of the latest fashion magazine.
Wednesday, August 15, 2012
Hair Q&A: Smart Answers To Hard Hair Questions
Imagine you had 30 minutes of uninterrupted face time with your stylist where you could get any and all of your tough hair care questions answered. Even better imagine it was time spent with Paula Abdul's ace Hollywood stylist. If either scenario were possible what questions would you ask about having a perkier, sexier, or more manageable mane? Here are three suggestions that can help you maintain the look you have when you get home from the salon.
Making Color Last
Who hasn't yearned to do this? That is make your color last longer. Because it's so disheartening to see the color circling the drain in the shower, isn't it? Knowing that means you've got color pigment leaching out of your strands. Which only shortens the length of time before you have to color again. That is if you want to keep your color looking vibrant and all.
Okay so the first line of defense suggested during your one-on-one stylist consult would obviously be to give your color time to set before washing. Any stylist worth their salt will suggest that.
Next to cut down on the dye going down the drain, you might combine shampooing and conditioning into one step. Wet your hair and then apply your color safe conditioner from the ears on down. After giving that four or five minutes to work, shampoo your scalp and only your scalp. Rinse and call it good. This smart approach to hair care might extend your color another week to 10 days if you're lucky.
Another idea would be to wear a hat of some sorts whenever your hair is at risk of sun exposure. As you know UV rays can be hard on the color. In fact this is the most preventable source of color fade. Which is to say shielding your hair from the sun just makes color sense.
Finally after the color starts to fade you might use a color depositing shampoo to add some oomph back to the color.
Finding the Best Style or Cut
Knowing that you're talking with a stylist don't be surprised if it's suggested you consult with them when it comes time to change your look. And this may not be bad advice. They can serve as a sounding board to help you sort out your needs and wants in light of your hair type.
Again they should know your hair. So should be able to offer good ideas that work with your hair's natural tendencies rather than against them.
You also want to remember to take into consideration your face shape, your lifestyle which also dictates how much bathroom time you'll have to devote to maintain a specific look, as well as your hair type. That last one keep popping up but it will most influence the style you can easily keep up with the least amount of work.
Split-end Therapy
Another common problem many of us face is split ends. You've always heard they have to be snipped off since repair isn't possible. But is that for real? Nothing else can be done for them? Or is there some magic potion that will repair the ends?
Sadly, your stylist would likely tell you that what you've heard is correct. That sealing of the splits and restoring them to their former health isn't likely. Besides when you snip them you are keeping the damage from running up the shaft. All this is why a regular trim is smart. Such an act will cut the splits off at the pass so to speak. Leaving you with shinier healthier hair all the way around.
In any case, you don't need to be a stylist to the stars to maintain that stunning, just stepped out of the salon look at home. Sure it's not always simple. But as these tips suggest it can be done. Even by you.
Making Color Last
Who hasn't yearned to do this? That is make your color last longer. Because it's so disheartening to see the color circling the drain in the shower, isn't it? Knowing that means you've got color pigment leaching out of your strands. Which only shortens the length of time before you have to color again. That is if you want to keep your color looking vibrant and all.
Okay so the first line of defense suggested during your one-on-one stylist consult would obviously be to give your color time to set before washing. Any stylist worth their salt will suggest that.
Next to cut down on the dye going down the drain, you might combine shampooing and conditioning into one step. Wet your hair and then apply your color safe conditioner from the ears on down. After giving that four or five minutes to work, shampoo your scalp and only your scalp. Rinse and call it good. This smart approach to hair care might extend your color another week to 10 days if you're lucky.
Another idea would be to wear a hat of some sorts whenever your hair is at risk of sun exposure. As you know UV rays can be hard on the color. In fact this is the most preventable source of color fade. Which is to say shielding your hair from the sun just makes color sense.
Finally after the color starts to fade you might use a color depositing shampoo to add some oomph back to the color.
Finding the Best Style or Cut
Knowing that you're talking with a stylist don't be surprised if it's suggested you consult with them when it comes time to change your look. And this may not be bad advice. They can serve as a sounding board to help you sort out your needs and wants in light of your hair type.
Again they should know your hair. So should be able to offer good ideas that work with your hair's natural tendencies rather than against them.
You also want to remember to take into consideration your face shape, your lifestyle which also dictates how much bathroom time you'll have to devote to maintain a specific look, as well as your hair type. That last one keep popping up but it will most influence the style you can easily keep up with the least amount of work.
Split-end Therapy
Another common problem many of us face is split ends. You've always heard they have to be snipped off since repair isn't possible. But is that for real? Nothing else can be done for them? Or is there some magic potion that will repair the ends?
Sadly, your stylist would likely tell you that what you've heard is correct. That sealing of the splits and restoring them to their former health isn't likely. Besides when you snip them you are keeping the damage from running up the shaft. All this is why a regular trim is smart. Such an act will cut the splits off at the pass so to speak. Leaving you with shinier healthier hair all the way around.
In any case, you don't need to be a stylist to the stars to maintain that stunning, just stepped out of the salon look at home. Sure it's not always simple. But as these tips suggest it can be done. Even by you.
Monday, August 13, 2012
Hair Hotline For Those Tired of Tormented Tresses
No doubt about it, summer sun is fun and all, but it's also hard on our hair. And while we'd like to think all that nonstop exposure to the sun, sweltering humidity, sweat, chlorinated water at the pool or wind is the primary cause of our hair woes, that ain't necessarily so. Sometimes the person most responsible is the one you see looking back at you in the mirror.
So when in doubt you might want to call the Tormented Tresses Hotline. There you will likely get an idea of how to avoid doing any more damage to your locks than you have to. Dialing 1-888-TORMENT will get you there. Just for fun let's dial it now.
Rrrrrrriiing…ring-ring….
"Hello. You've reached the Tormented Tresses Hotline. Our various hair care options have changed so please listen carefully. But if you know your party's four digit extension you may dial it at any time."
"If you're one of those who gets out of the pool and ties your hair up and then wonders why it doesn't look so great later that night please press '1' now. You'll hear a list of better things to do beforehand, like wet your hair with tap water before diving in. Or applying leave in conditioner to help keep the chlorine out. Plus get some tips as to what you can do when you're done playing beach volleyball for the day."
"If your hair is dictating your outdoor lifestyle, you know whether you go to the beach or hide out in the local art museum to stay out of the sun, then please press '2' now. At that option you'll learn more about products that contain SPF to help shield your strands from the harmful UV rays. There you'll also find a list of local retailers selling a cheap summer hair care solution - hats."
"If you've colored your hair and are worried about sun fade, press '3' now. This is truly a real and present danger alright. At this option the benefits of color specific shampoos and conditioners will be briefly explored."
"For those with parched, straw like strands, please press '4' now. That option will reveal not to mention revel in the wonders of repairing shampoo and moisturizing conditioners that work. Or worst case scenario you can arrange an appointment to have one of our trained stylists cut off the damage, even if it means a pixie cut so you can start over again. This time taking better care of your mane."
"Curly girls will want to press '5' now. You'll hear how heat protectants can keep your hair supple, shiny and strong despite how often you try to blow the curl out of your hair on those super humid days."
"Press '6' if you're thinking of doing an a DIY at home perm in the middle of the summer but are scared about the side effects. You should be very afraid because most likely your tresses are. Natural looking curls and waves may be the objective. But the outcome may be a dried out mess if you don't follow the advice this option shares. Which basically ends up with leaving such tasks to the pros when it is hot and humid out. Or better still wait until the summer has passed altogether."
"Press 0 at any time for the operator. That person will likely recommend sites like FullerHeadofHair.com. I won't say you'll find hair raising tips there because such a play on words would be kind of silly not to mention harebrained. But the info that site shares is anything but."
Hopefully YOU don't have to turn to such extreme solutions as the Tormented Tresses Hotline. But at least you can get an idea of what those who do have to can discover about living with their mane when the main activity of the day is fun in the sun.
So when in doubt you might want to call the Tormented Tresses Hotline. There you will likely get an idea of how to avoid doing any more damage to your locks than you have to. Dialing 1-888-TORMENT will get you there. Just for fun let's dial it now.
Rrrrrrriiing…ring-ring….
"Hello. You've reached the Tormented Tresses Hotline. Our various hair care options have changed so please listen carefully. But if you know your party's four digit extension you may dial it at any time."
"If you're one of those who gets out of the pool and ties your hair up and then wonders why it doesn't look so great later that night please press '1' now. You'll hear a list of better things to do beforehand, like wet your hair with tap water before diving in. Or applying leave in conditioner to help keep the chlorine out. Plus get some tips as to what you can do when you're done playing beach volleyball for the day."
"If your hair is dictating your outdoor lifestyle, you know whether you go to the beach or hide out in the local art museum to stay out of the sun, then please press '2' now. At that option you'll learn more about products that contain SPF to help shield your strands from the harmful UV rays. There you'll also find a list of local retailers selling a cheap summer hair care solution - hats."
"If you've colored your hair and are worried about sun fade, press '3' now. This is truly a real and present danger alright. At this option the benefits of color specific shampoos and conditioners will be briefly explored."
"For those with parched, straw like strands, please press '4' now. That option will reveal not to mention revel in the wonders of repairing shampoo and moisturizing conditioners that work. Or worst case scenario you can arrange an appointment to have one of our trained stylists cut off the damage, even if it means a pixie cut so you can start over again. This time taking better care of your mane."
"Curly girls will want to press '5' now. You'll hear how heat protectants can keep your hair supple, shiny and strong despite how often you try to blow the curl out of your hair on those super humid days."
"Press '6' if you're thinking of doing an a DIY at home perm in the middle of the summer but are scared about the side effects. You should be very afraid because most likely your tresses are. Natural looking curls and waves may be the objective. But the outcome may be a dried out mess if you don't follow the advice this option shares. Which basically ends up with leaving such tasks to the pros when it is hot and humid out. Or better still wait until the summer has passed altogether."
"Press 0 at any time for the operator. That person will likely recommend sites like FullerHeadofHair.com. I won't say you'll find hair raising tips there because such a play on words would be kind of silly not to mention harebrained. But the info that site shares is anything but."
Hopefully YOU don't have to turn to such extreme solutions as the Tormented Tresses Hotline. But at least you can get an idea of what those who do have to can discover about living with their mane when the main activity of the day is fun in the sun.
Wednesday, August 8, 2012
Conditioner: Yes, Virginia, You Really Do Need It
Two friends, Tiffany and Virginia were standing in the hair care aisle behind a shopping cart debating the finer points of conditioner. Because it seems Virginia had bought into some of the myths commonly heard on the street. That suggested hair conditioner was optional. Especially during summer months. When there was enough moisture in the air to float a cruise liner.
Yet Tiffany was adamant. "Yes, Virginia, you really do need conditioner. It's essential if you want healthy hair."
While Tiffany may be certain about the benefits of conditioning her hair, perhaps you are not. Perhaps you could use a brief refresher course.
For starters think of it this way. As one stylist to the stars put it, conditioning products finish what your shampoo starts. It goes a long way to making your hair more manageable. It helps fend off dryness. Healthy hair holds a style better. In other words is simply looks better.
4 Conditioning Rules to Live By
Don't Skimp on the Conditioner. You need enough to do the job. That and a quality product will actually fill the holes in the shaft itself. It helps to settle down and smooth rough cuticles or the outer layer of the strands. And it offers a degree of protection from heat or even pool chemicals.
Don't Apply Aggressively. By that I mean, you want to stay far away from the roots. That's where the oil naturally is found anyway. Which is to say the area near the scalp is the part of your hair shaft that really doesn't need conditioning. It's the older hair, generally anything past your ears, that you want to focus your conditioner on. Especially the ends. Especially during the summer.
Don't Be In A Hurry. Too many of us don't leave the conditioner on long enough for it to do its job. This isn't a 30 second process. Three, four five minutes is more like the duration you are looking for. There is no need to rush the rinsing of the conditioner down the drain. It does your naturally colored locks no good down there.
Don't Forget Deep Conditioning. If you want to put the brakes on breakage then you'll want to deep condition like once a month. Here's one way to go about it. Simply apply the conditioner, cover your head with a plastic cap and sit under a dryer for 15 to 20 minutes. A great way to add needed moisture to parched locks. All the more if those locks have been colored or highlighted.
Stylist Tip: During the hot summer months see if you can't give your blow dryer a rest. But if you insist on firing it up, note the word fire, then set it to the lowest temp to do the job. Remember the higher the setting the hotter the air your appliance blows. The hotter the air the dryer your ends will get. And fried ends split super easily.
Truth be told, everyone's hair is damaged. It simply a matter of how badly damaged it is. A way to improve the health of your hair is to properly condition it. And the key to conditioners is finding a product that works with your hair. And as the saying goes you may have to kiss a lot of frogs but once you find one that works with your locks you'll notice the difference. And so will your friends.
One more thing. Those who want more helpful info like this should check out FullerHeadofHair.com. Whether you are a hair care novice, or the one your friends turn to, like Tiffany here, you're bound to find new ideas and tips you can use at that website.
Yet Tiffany was adamant. "Yes, Virginia, you really do need conditioner. It's essential if you want healthy hair."
While Tiffany may be certain about the benefits of conditioning her hair, perhaps you are not. Perhaps you could use a brief refresher course.
For starters think of it this way. As one stylist to the stars put it, conditioning products finish what your shampoo starts. It goes a long way to making your hair more manageable. It helps fend off dryness. Healthy hair holds a style better. In other words is simply looks better.
4 Conditioning Rules to Live By
Don't Skimp on the Conditioner. You need enough to do the job. That and a quality product will actually fill the holes in the shaft itself. It helps to settle down and smooth rough cuticles or the outer layer of the strands. And it offers a degree of protection from heat or even pool chemicals.
Don't Apply Aggressively. By that I mean, you want to stay far away from the roots. That's where the oil naturally is found anyway. Which is to say the area near the scalp is the part of your hair shaft that really doesn't need conditioning. It's the older hair, generally anything past your ears, that you want to focus your conditioner on. Especially the ends. Especially during the summer.
Don't Be In A Hurry. Too many of us don't leave the conditioner on long enough for it to do its job. This isn't a 30 second process. Three, four five minutes is more like the duration you are looking for. There is no need to rush the rinsing of the conditioner down the drain. It does your naturally colored locks no good down there.
Don't Forget Deep Conditioning. If you want to put the brakes on breakage then you'll want to deep condition like once a month. Here's one way to go about it. Simply apply the conditioner, cover your head with a plastic cap and sit under a dryer for 15 to 20 minutes. A great way to add needed moisture to parched locks. All the more if those locks have been colored or highlighted.
Stylist Tip: During the hot summer months see if you can't give your blow dryer a rest. But if you insist on firing it up, note the word fire, then set it to the lowest temp to do the job. Remember the higher the setting the hotter the air your appliance blows. The hotter the air the dryer your ends will get. And fried ends split super easily.
Truth be told, everyone's hair is damaged. It simply a matter of how badly damaged it is. A way to improve the health of your hair is to properly condition it. And the key to conditioners is finding a product that works with your hair. And as the saying goes you may have to kiss a lot of frogs but once you find one that works with your locks you'll notice the difference. And so will your friends.
One more thing. Those who want more helpful info like this should check out FullerHeadofHair.com. Whether you are a hair care novice, or the one your friends turn to, like Tiffany here, you're bound to find new ideas and tips you can use at that website.
Tuesday, August 7, 2012
Don’t Ignore the Basics of Hair Care
Every now and again it's good to revisit the basics of hair care. Busy lives oftentimes dictate developing a morning routine we can follow mindlessly even if our brain isn't fully engaged yet. Or your hectic schedule in the evening with homework, or the kids and their homework and what naught may require an end of day routine you can run through despite being dead tired as you prep your hair and face for a rejuvenating and restful night's slumber.
Don't get me wrong. There's nothing wrong with routines. They can help us get thru the daily drudge without having to think too hard. But for some, routines can turn into ruts. And a rut by its very definition means we may be ignoring or excluding some useful things we should be doing but aren't because we've forgotten or feel we don't have time or whatever. Know what I mean?
So maybe it's time to think outside the hair care box you find yourself in. The one you've grown accustomed to. Let's start that process by looking at seven elements of hair care you ignore at the peril of your tresses.
For starters let me ask you, could your pillow be damaging your hair? Well your pillow case more specifically. It's a little known fact that if you want to avoid roughing up your cuticles as you sleep you want to sleep with either a satin scarf firmly in place or on a satin pillow case. In other words cotton pillow cases are out.
Tangles an issue? They aren't pleasant are they? Whatever you do don't use a brush to remove them. A wide tooth comb is best. Better still is to make use of the comb when your hair is slick with conditioner.
If your hair tends to the dry side maybe a little shea butter, or products containing shea butter, would be just what the shine doctor ordered. It can add badly needed moisture your locks are lacking naturally. Making it a worthy addition to your hair care routine, don't you think?
Mind if I ask when was your last scalp massage? If you don't know or it was long ago, well that's not good. Since a few minutes invested regularly in doing that can encourage better circulation to those all-important hair follicles and to stimulate natural oil production.
Exercise regularly? Good for you. Problem is exercise and sweaty hair often go hand in hand. The idea would be to rinse the salt out of your hair even if you aren't able to shampoo it. Then just apply a leave in conditioner and you're more or less set.
Speaking of conditioner if your routine doesn't include deep conditioning at least once a month, it should. Others find that using a leave in conditioner helps with their hair. Naturally you'll want to experiment to see if you get equally good results by doing so. But it's something to consider.
Finally you're better off working with your hair type rather than constantly fighting to get a look your hair doesn't naturally sustain. While it just makes sense too few do this. Yet the less you fight your hair to get the look you want, the less stressed both you and your hair will be. In other words calling a hair truce and going with the flow is just smart hair management.
It goes without saying but I'll say it anyway. The better you treat your hair the better it will look. This is little more than the basics of haircuts and styles for some. Yet too often we get caught up in the rush of everyday life that we take shortcuts with our hair care routine to save time and effort. Yet as these seven points show, any hair care routine can benefit from hitting the reset switch and taking a look at what you are or are not doing and why.
Don't get me wrong. There's nothing wrong with routines. They can help us get thru the daily drudge without having to think too hard. But for some, routines can turn into ruts. And a rut by its very definition means we may be ignoring or excluding some useful things we should be doing but aren't because we've forgotten or feel we don't have time or whatever. Know what I mean?
So maybe it's time to think outside the hair care box you find yourself in. The one you've grown accustomed to. Let's start that process by looking at seven elements of hair care you ignore at the peril of your tresses.
For starters let me ask you, could your pillow be damaging your hair? Well your pillow case more specifically. It's a little known fact that if you want to avoid roughing up your cuticles as you sleep you want to sleep with either a satin scarf firmly in place or on a satin pillow case. In other words cotton pillow cases are out.
Tangles an issue? They aren't pleasant are they? Whatever you do don't use a brush to remove them. A wide tooth comb is best. Better still is to make use of the comb when your hair is slick with conditioner.
If your hair tends to the dry side maybe a little shea butter, or products containing shea butter, would be just what the shine doctor ordered. It can add badly needed moisture your locks are lacking naturally. Making it a worthy addition to your hair care routine, don't you think?
Mind if I ask when was your last scalp massage? If you don't know or it was long ago, well that's not good. Since a few minutes invested regularly in doing that can encourage better circulation to those all-important hair follicles and to stimulate natural oil production.
Exercise regularly? Good for you. Problem is exercise and sweaty hair often go hand in hand. The idea would be to rinse the salt out of your hair even if you aren't able to shampoo it. Then just apply a leave in conditioner and you're more or less set.
Speaking of conditioner if your routine doesn't include deep conditioning at least once a month, it should. Others find that using a leave in conditioner helps with their hair. Naturally you'll want to experiment to see if you get equally good results by doing so. But it's something to consider.
Finally you're better off working with your hair type rather than constantly fighting to get a look your hair doesn't naturally sustain. While it just makes sense too few do this. Yet the less you fight your hair to get the look you want, the less stressed both you and your hair will be. In other words calling a hair truce and going with the flow is just smart hair management.
It goes without saying but I'll say it anyway. The better you treat your hair the better it will look. This is little more than the basics of haircuts and styles for some. Yet too often we get caught up in the rush of everyday life that we take shortcuts with our hair care routine to save time and effort. Yet as these seven points show, any hair care routine can benefit from hitting the reset switch and taking a look at what you are or are not doing and why.
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