Hair secret #1: What to do when you don't want to shampoo or don't have time...

One of the huge frustrations in my life, dating back to around 5Th grade, is my hair. I have fine, straight, thin, limp hair. Now for all you thick, curly haired people, don't hate. It is much better to have thick hair, you can always thin it out. For curly hair, you can always straighten it, yes it may take a while, but at least it will stay that way. OK, I've had my pity party. Everyone has frustrations with their own hair, and I know everyone wishes for what they don't have. My hope is that some of my little tips will help alleviate some of your frustrations.

Baby Powder...yes, regular old baby powder. This is my secret to achieving perfect "second day hair". If you are one of those people who shampoo your hair every day, try this trick. (Side note:Shampooing and styling every day can cause color to fade faster and too much heat styling can damage your hair.) Instead of shampooing every day sprinkle a small amount of baby powder in your hands, rub together, flip your head over, and then rub your hands through the top and sides of your scalp. The baby powder will soak up any excess oils and give your hair an instant lift. Now, for those of you that shampoo every couple days, baby powder can still refresh your hair and give you lift and ease when styling.

A few things to be conscience of,

1. Baby powder can "matte" out your hair. You might want to add a little shine spray to your finished style. I recommend S Factor Shiny Happy People Shine Spray .
2. If you have brown to dark brown hair you might want to try a hair powder that is tinted. The white baby powder does not blend as well in darker hair. I recommend Bumble and Bumble Hair Powder in blondish. I know what you are thinking, 'blondish, that will be too light'. Trust me, it is darker than you think.
   
3. Remember to give yourself a thorough shampoo the next time you wash your hair. Build up can occur if any powder is left on your scalp.

Let me know how it works for you. Now you are in the know...I mean in the glow.

Go Blonde!

Try something different this spring and go lighter. Blonde hues are all the rage right now and there is a perfect blonde shade for every skin tone. From caramel to platimun let me help you find your match. There are a few rules to follow when you want to go lighter.

1. Stay within 3 shades of your natural hair color. Trying to go too light can damage your hair and put a squeeze on your wallet. The closer you stay to your natural color the more it will blend in as it grows out.
2. Bring a picture of the color you want. Find a picture in a magazine or online and bring it to your hair appointment. When one of my clients says 'blonde' to me, I think of 20 different possibilities. A picture helps to communicate exactly what you are thinking so that you and your stylist are on the same page.
3. Listen to your Hair Stylist! If your stylist tells you that what you are thinking is not such a great idea then consider what he or she suggests. Your hair may not be healthy enough to handle a lightening process. Or the color that you desire may not be best for your skin tone.
4. Take baby steps. If your not sure, try a few high lights at first and see how you like it. You can always add more the next visit or easily go back to a darker color by toning over the lighter shades.

Anytime you lighten your hair you want to make sure you add moisture back into it by using a cream or leave-in conditioner. If cream conditioners weigh your hair down, just get a light leave-in spray and comb through before you blow dry. I recommend S Factor Papaya Leave-in Moisture Spray ($26). Ask me about this product next time you're at the salon and we can try it on your hair.
Of course, I could use the age old cliche and say 'blondes have more fun', but I have been a blonde, brunette, and even a red head and have always had an equal amount no matter what. So embrace what you have and don't be afraid to try something new.
Now you are in the know...I mean in the glow.