And so the summer begins – the “wave” of flip flops and sunglasses, tank tops and suntans. And so thus begins the frizzy hair, the flat hair. But alas, every magazine lining the shelves will exhibit models lounging along the seashore, with their perfectly placed “beachy” tresses, looking effortless, windblown, and simple. Yet every year this gives us a glint of hope that our hair will miraculously curl and sweep across our face as we step into the heat and humidity – beach side or not. How soon this illusion is crushed. And as we struggle with “fluffy” fly-aways, and stringy limp strands; we give up.
As a victim of this very situation, I started my hunt, my research, and a summer of trial and errors. Watching commercials and flipping through magazines, I witnessed half naked, flawless figures basking in the water, climbing cliffs, barefoot, along a rocky coast, or standing on the pier of yacht as it blasts through the ocean waves; all with luscious, tamed, creamy curls that hung sensually over their shoulders, dipped into the curves of their bony stances, and laid perfectly off their sun kissed faces. This is NOT reality. But in a juvenile state of mind: beach elements = beach hair. So many a summer days I spent bulking my hair up with salt and sand, scrunching it continuously with my hands. More, salt, more sand, scrunch, scrunch, scrunch. And yet, my thin hair, fell flat. Each day, I turned away from the ocean, head hung in disappointment. But with age, I came to realize, as unrealistic it was for rail thin models to be rock climbing in bikinis and espadrilles, it was just as unrealistic for their hair to naturally fall into a cascade of curled bliss. It DID take time, effort, and products. My project took a turn: finding the right combination of tools/techniques to replicate this “beachy hair look.”
For myself, keeper of fine, thin, color treated, COMPLETELY straight hair without an ounce of curl or volume, recipe for disaster right? I was able, with the aid of a few stylists, to concoct a mixture of curling products, techniques, and hair tools that would finally create a curly coif to be reckoned with, alas, I had tamed, coiled, beach-blown hair! And thus, here is my personal recipe for the perfect “Sea Swept Hair”:
Ingredients:
Pureology Hydrate Shampoo and Conditioner
Redken Soft Spin 05
Salon Professional Sedu TGR 4000 hair dryer with diffuser*
Salon Professional Hot Tools curling iron* (size varies depending on length of hair- consult with a stylist)
Depending on your finished look/feel preference, choose either:
Redken Quick Dry 18 finishing spray* (hairspray), for a flexible/light hold.
Redken Workforce 09 finishing spray (hairspray), for a flexible/medium hold.
Redken Forceful 23 finishing spray (hairspray), for a stronger, stiffer hold.
The step by step recipe:
After washing and lightly conditioning your hair, towel-dry*, DO NOT COMB
Use roughly a dime size amount of Redken soft spin gel, rub between both hands and spread through hair (for even distribution, flip head/hair upside down to ensure product is spread beneath the top layers of hair) and SCRUNCH*
Use blow-dryer with diffuser* attached to diffuse hair -low setting/speed, high heat- (ask your stylist for diffusing techniques or even what a diffuser is, if unsure, like myself at one point)
After you have accomplished the desired curl and finish to your hair, use either of the suggested “finishing sprays” to lock in your look!
If needed, use the appropriately sized curling iron to curl uncooperative strands (which I always have J)
Salon Jargon Explained!
Finishing spray = a fancy way of saying hairspray
Scrunch = a way of cupping your hand, grasping a clump of hair from the ends, squeezing the hair and lifting to your roots. Yes, you can try at home, but if confused, consult with a stylist or look online!
Diffuser = an attachment for your hair dryer (some hair dryers come with them), but if not, make sure the attachment fits your dryer before buying. This acts as a “scrunching” device with the help of heat which will create the soft curls.
Towel dry = damp/dry hair, OPPOSITE of slippery, dripping wet hair, which will only water down the products. For thin hair, leave towel on for a few minutes, for thick hair leave towel for 10-15 minutes or longer if needed. Warning: DO NOT rub towel around hair, this will only cause frizz!
Various Curling Iron Sizes = different curls/looks are created with different sized curling irons. For example, to achieve a tighter curl, use smaller sizes, for a wavy/larger curl, use larger sizes. For assistance in purchasing the right curling iron for yourself, consult with a stylist
Footnote: Different textures/densities/thickness of hair types will require different tools, techniques, and products to create this look.
Yes, it is that time of year again. The heat comes on, the humidity drops and we feel the affects in every aspect of our lives and especially in our hair, nails and skin. For those of us with fine hair, somewhere between late December and January, we start with the static fly-away. The brush that usually smoothes and detangles our tresses becomes the menace for static. To relieve this problem, try Redken’s Clear Moisture Shampoo and conditioner and Instant polishing Prep leave-in conditioner. The Clear Moisture line will add just the right amount of moisture without the weight. And before styling your hair, add a little Outshine for frizz and static control while blow drying.
For those that have medium to coarse hair, a weekly treatment of Redken’s All Soft Line. The Shampoo and Conditioner provide intense softness, movement and shine. The Heavy Crème treatment provides rich, deep conditioning for intense softness and frizz control on extremely dry, brittle hair. And Velvet Whip instantly restores softness, improves texture and helps provide heat protection for a shiny, luxurious finish. Finish off with a little Gold Glimmer which provides intense shine with lasting softness and frizz control.
If you love your curls but find that winter takes the bounce out of the style, try Fresh Curls Shampoo and Conditioner which provides moisture and definition for all types of curls. All curls are not created equal and in winter curl can become lazy, fragile and lack definition. Fresh Curls addresses the specific needs of different types of curly hair with new technologies and products specifically formulated for each type of curl. Winter curls can most benefit from Fresh Curls Curl Refiner. It tames, detangles and helps control frizz for lasting memory, manageability and shine. And for styling use Fresh curls Spring Mousse as it strengthens boosts and re-energizes limp, lazy curls when the moisture in the air is dry during the winter months.
Winter can be rough on our looks but Redken has just the right line for your specific needs. Ask your hair care professional which product is right for you.
Once again the seasons are changing and we are finding ourselves wanting to do something different. A great place to start is with your style and color. Layers are huge this fall. If you have shoulder length hair, try bouncy layers. They will add a sexy, fuller look to your long tresses. You can also try chunky waves. Style with Urban Experiment Wool Shake or Redken Hot Sets 22/ Spray Starch 15 if you choose to use a curling iron.
If your hair is shorter than chin length, try short layers. They give any style a modern, edgy look and can be blown out to look professional. To get the “choppy” look use Redken Rewind 06 or Rough Paste 12. If you do not prefer this look, try a one length bob. Use Guts 10 for star volume.
If you are looking for a simple style that will look fabulous during the day and great during the night try a deep side part. Take the majority of hair from one side of the scalp and blow-dry to style on the other side. A great blow-dry gel is the new Redken Sheer Straight 06 or the new Redken Aerate 08 Bodifying Cream Mousse that gives you extra volume. Lock in the style with a little Redken hairspray. Try Workforce 09 or Quick Dry 18.
Super straight hair is once again the popular look for fall. If you want a really sleek and sexy style, blow-dry the hair and then flat iron to make it super straight. Don’t forget to ask your stylist what blowdryer, flat iron and brushes they use because it will make a huge difference in the amount of effort and time it takes to straighten your hair. To blow-dry we recommend using Super Smooth by Pureology or Redken Power Tame 16.
Trends in color this fall are reds, browns, caramels, and strawberry blondes: they will all look great against the autumn sun and leaves. If you are new to changing your color and are hesistant, you don’t have to be. Brunettes, try fewer, lighter hilities this fall, or try a shade cooler than your base color. You can even change the base to a honey brown to give it some warmth. For blondes, try going strawberry. It will add a nice warm hue and you won’t feel too washed out. For those of you with dark hair, talk to your stylist about adding a shimmery red to your base that will really sparkle in the sun. A change of color is all you may need to make you feel ready for the autumn season!
Dry cuticles are caused by lack of moisture in the cuticle and surrounding skin causing hang nails, cracked or torn cuticles, and plain old dry skin J
While hand lotion is a great topical solution, it acts more as a glove of protection to shield your hands and nails from the elements. I like to think of it as the outer layer of protection.
Cuticle or nail oil is the fastest carrier to condition your cuticles quick!! Oil carries faster than lotion, penetrating deep into the skin and healing dryness from the inside out. Oils that have jojoba oil, like OPI Avoplex and Creative Nail Solar Oil, carries and delivers moisture even faster, b/c jojoba oil is a great carrier oil!!
So the next time your cuticles are crying for some TLC, reach for the cuticle oil before the lotion and you’ll see a world of difference!!
The change of seasons is rapidly approaching and as the leaves change so do our wardrobes. While the classics and basics never change, it’s always fun to spice up our looks with a few fashion forward new items. I’ve put together a brief summery of some of my favorite fall ’09 trends to help you get started…
Asymmetry
Take advantage of the remaining days of warm weather by experimenting with tops that feature a ‘one-shoulder’ design. The result is a slightly edgy look that shows just the right amount of skin. The single bare shoulder is also the perfect balance for a great, statement making pair of earrings.
You can test drive the look with this casual ruffled cotton top from Old Navy (psst… hurry, its on sale!).
If you’re looking for something bolder or more polished, check out this silk number by Diane Von Furstenburg at Nordstrom. www.nordstrom.com
Blazers
When you feel the cool breeze of autumn reach for a menswear inspired blazer to keep the chill away and stay looking chic. On a recent trip to Target, I spotted two stylish and affordable options that are perfectly suited for varying body types.
The first was a classic look with a modern twist. The blazer had a straight, lean cut which is great for a taller girl or a leaner body type. The sleeves had a detailed, striped lining that was exposed when the wearer rolls them up.
The seconded blazer featured a more feminine cut with a tie belt at the waist. This is a great option for a curvier lady. The accentuated waist line allows a girl with more bust or hips to get in on the menswear trend without looking frumpy or shapeless.
Fur Details
When the temperatures begin to drop you can indulge in one of my favorite fall trends… Fur! This luxurious look is popping up in both embellishments and larger pieces such as vests and cropped jackets.
I encourage the bolder ladies of the world to slip on a fun faux vest like this one from A Common Thread.
While the vest may be too much for some, there are many fun fall trends that can be used to update your most classic, reliable pieces and put you in the right mood for a brisk autumn night!
In today’s economy there is a lot of cutting back and sacrificing in order to stay ahead. Everyone wants to look and feel beautiful but how do you do that in today’s economy. First you should figure out how much you can afford to spend on your beauty in a month. This is what is called your beauty budget. Once you know your beauty budget then your stylist should be able to work out a plan that works with your beauty budget. There are many solutions if you find that your current style is outside of your beauty budget. Options that have been working well are as follows: extending services a few weeks further, trying a lower priced designer, splitting your services with lower priced designers, changing our guests look so there is less upkeep, alternating every other appointment between highlights and single process color, or using the Hair Color Extender in order to stretch a few more weeks between color appointments.
Sometimes the best solution to fit your beauty regimen within your beauty budget is to switch to a lower priced designer. Some salons are now offering level pricing. Each level has different pricing so you can choose someone within your beauty budget. Usually stylists with lower prices are still growing their client base and are at bargain prices. Before choosing a salon do your research and try to find a salon that has a solid training program. Well trained teams will be able to offer you better services at their lower price points. Do not expect your lower level stylists to be as perfect as a master but you should be able to expect them to do an amazing job. Ask about mentorship and whether there is a master stylist on staff to assist if help is needed.
Another option would be to have your current stylist do half of your service and see if there is a lower priced designer that would do the other half. If you salon offers level pricing ask them about their policy on splitting services. They should be open to splitting services if they think you may need to leave in order to afford your services. As long as your salon has level pricing this option has the potential to save you a lot of money and still look fabulous!
If your salon is not open to splitting your service or they just don’t have level pricing then you can just change your look. Changing your look to a color and style that requires less upkeep will make it possible to come in less often and therefore saving you money. Keep in mind that this will require you to change your color to be close to your natural color; this is not an option unless you are willing to do so. Speak with your designer and see what new look you could try that will fit into your beauty budget.
So you get highlights and you don’t want to change your look. You can find out if it is possible to get your highlights done every other visit and just touch up your new growth in between. This works well because you can receive their dimensional color service during one visit, and then four to six weeks later receive the single process color service and so on. This means your dimensional service now has eight to twelve weeks between, your hair still looks amazing, and you save money!
Tell your salon about Hair Color Extender’s or HCE. You can read about HCE on the website www.Omorphia.com. HCE is a way for you to touch up your new growth color from home. It only hold about a half and ounce of color; just enough for your hair line and part line. What is unique is that your stylist uses your actual color so it will match perfectly. You can read more about HCE at http://www.omorphia.com/. Their website contains an instructional video displaying a step-by-step application process. Select color services can use this product to extend the length of time between their in salon color applications. Ask your designer if HCE is right for you. HCE will allow you to extend your time between color visits up to 4 weeks. The HCE is only available for professional salons to purchase and retail to you; so let your salon know you want HCE!
So if you are having trouble fitting your hair appointment into your current beauty budget please speak with your designer to work out a plan of action to make your service fit into your beauty budget. You should not have to sacrifice your beauty or your hair to live in today’s world.
As the hot summer days begin to dwindle and the economy remains lackluster, many of us will turn our focus toward the mall, dreaming of one big bold word….SALE!
Everywhere we look stores are trying to move merchandise which means prices will be slashed in ways that are sure to excite any shopaholic.
In an attempt to keep my readers out of financial ruin, I have put together some road tested, consumer-approved tips for navigating the clearance racks and getting the most for your money…
One of the most frightening effects of a down economy is the large number of businesses that are permanently closing their doors. While no one enjoys the misfortune of others, there are silver linings to be found by shoppers hoping to find a bargain. In the rush to get the best of a diminishing inventory it can be easy for a consumer to make a poor choice or even be taken advantage of. http://www.Smartmoney.com warns “Not only will the selection be limited, but remaining items will most likely be of lesser quality” and occasionally liquidators will mark up the original prices of an item before marking it down because “50% off looks a lot more attractive than 20% off.” When taking advantage of these sales remember the old adage, Buyer Beware!
Planning a weekend in NYC anytime soon? Dreaming of scoring a luxurious designer item at a steep discount? You should be battling it out with all the other stylish ladies at a sample sale. Websites like http://www.thebudgetfashionista.com are spilling the secrets of these once exclusive events. The website’s creator Kathryn Finney says “There are definitely better deals on more luxury pieces and better selection. It used to be at sample sales that unless you went first day, all that was left was the stuff you didn’t want”. She goes on to say that “I think toward the end of the year, we won’t see that many crazy, wacky sales – not at the level we’re seeing now”. In other words, get in on the sample sale revolution before it’s too late!
As summer draws to a close, retailers are hoping you will spend your holiday weekend on a shopping spree. Big name stores will be trying to lure you in with savings on everything from apparel and shoes to linens and furniture. I have personally found these sales to be amazing but only if you have specific purchases in mind and those specific items are included in the sale. As with all sales, try not to be seduced by big savings because a deal is only a deal if the item is one that you love and will use/wear frequently.
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