Hair Care Treatment at home

Eggs, yogurt and honey are, at first glance, all components of a tasty breakfast — but they also happen to be Hair Care Treatment ingredients, and affordable, all-natural ones at that. And they're not the only ones. Did you know, for instance, that the oils in avocados more closely resemble our own skin's oils than any product in the beauty aisle does? Or that the mild acidity in lemon is an effective — and gentler — alternative to chemical-laden products? Next time your locks need a lift, save money by using one of these kitchen fixes.

For all hair types

"The [raw] egg is really the best of all worlds," says Janice Cox, author of "Natural Beauty at Home". The yolk, rich in fats and proteins, is naturally moisturizing, while the white that contains bacteria-eating enzymes, removes unwanted oils, she explains.

To use: For normal hair, use the entire egg to condition hair; use egg whites only to treat oily hair; use egg yolks only to moisturize dry, brittle hair, Cox says. Use 1/2 cup of whichever egg mixture is appropriate for you and apply to clean, damp hair. If there isn’t enough egg to coat scalp and hair, use more as needed. Leave on for 20 minutes, rinse with cool water (to prevent egg from "cooking") and shampoo hair. Whole egg and yolks-only treatments can be applied once a month; whites-only treatment can be applied every two weeks.

For Dull Hair care Problems

Styling products (as well as air pollution) can leave a film that both saps moisture and dulls shine — but dairy products like sour cream and plain yogurt can help reverse this damage. "Lactic acid gently strips away dirt while the milk fat moisturizes," says Lisa Belkin, author of "The Cosmetics Cookbook".

To Use: Massage 1/2 cup sour cream or plain yogurt into damp hair and let sit for 20 minutes. Rinse with warm water, followed by cool water, then shampoo hair as you normally would. Treatment can be applied every other week.

For itchy scalp

To fight flakes — brought on by poor diet, stress and climate, among other factors — try a lemon juice and olive oil mixture in your hair. "The acidity in lemon juice helps rid your scalp of any loose, dry flakes of skin, while the olive oil moisturizes the [newly exposed] skin on your head," says Cox.

To Use: Mix 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, 2 tablespoons olive oil and 2 tablespoons water, and massage into damp scalp. Let mixture sit for 20 minutes, then rinse and shampoo hair. Treatment can be applied every other week.

For limp or fine hair

To add body to hair, reach for an unlikely beauty beverage: beer! The fermented drink contains generous supplies of yeast, which works to plump tired tresses, explains Cox.

To use: Mix 1/2 cup flat beer (pour beer into a container and let it sit out for a couple of hours to deplete carbonation) with 1 teaspoon light oil (sunflower or canola) and a raw egg. Apply to clean, damp hair, let sit for 15 minutes, then rinse with cool water. Or add flat beer only to a spray bottle and spritz onto dry hair. "When the liquid evaporates, the remaining protein residue (from the wheat, malt or hops) continues to strengthen and structure hair," says Belkin. Treatments can be applied every other week.

For dry or sun-damaged hair

Whatever your hair-dehydrating demon — hard water, sun overexposure, your trusty flat iron — nature's sweetener can help. "Honey is a natural humectant, which means it attracts and locks in moisture," says Cox.

To use: Massage approximately 1/2 cup honey into clean, damp hair, let sit for 20 minutes, then rinse with warm water. You can also add 1 to 2 tablespoons olive oil to loosen the honey for easier application. For extremely sun-damaged hair, trying mixing honey with 1 to 2 tablespoons of a protein-rich ingredient, like avocado or egg yolk, which will help replenish the keratin protein bonds that UV rays attack. Treatment can be applied once a month.

For oily or greasy hair

"Used properly, [cornmeal or cornstarch] is an inexpensive way to remove oil and grease," says Belkin.

To use: Pour 1 tablespoon cornmeal or cornstarch into an empty salt or pepper shaker and sprinkle onto dry hair and scalp until you’ve used it all. After 10 minutes, use a paddle hairbrush to completely brush it out. Treatment can be applied every other day.

For frizzy hair

Home beauty experts swear by avocado — and not just to repair damaged hair. Its oils (which are light and moist like our own natural skin secretions) and proteins boast the best combination of nutrients for smoothing and weighing down unruly hair, explains Cox.

To use: Mash up half an avocado and massage into clean, damp hair. Let sit for 15 minutes before rinsing with water. Amp up moisturizing power by combining mashed avocado with 1 to 2 tablespoons of a hydrating ingredient, like sour cream, egg yolks or mayonnaise. Treatment can be applied every two weeks.

For residue-ridden hair

"Nothing eats through product buildup like baking soda," Cox says. Sodium bicarbonate essentially breaks down anything acidic.

To Use: Mix 1 to 2 tablespoons baking soda with small amounts of water until a thick paste forms. Massage into damp hair and let sit for 15 minutes. Rinse with water, then shampoo hair. Treatment can be applied every two weeks.

Fall Hair colors' Trends

With many models and celebrities using different hair colors in different movies, ramp shows and performances, practically everyone around is considering changing their hair colour to fall in line with these glorious stars.

Many products are available in the market today with wide ranging colors and prices to suit every taste and purse. Besides choosing a good hair color brand, remember it is also important that you choose a hair color with a shade that best suits your hair color and skin tone. So what hair colors to you expect to see on some of our most celebrated celebrities this fall? Here are some fall hair color trend forecasts from some of the top celebrity hair color specialist. Instead of a complete hair color replacement you will see a toning down of the original color.

Trends for Brunettes - Light Highlights

Brunettes like Selena Gomez with her long soft curls just past her shoulders and medium to long layers cut through her back section has a dark chestnut shade with light highlights for an awesome flawless hairstyle. Body and volume are accomplished with side layers that also ad texture to compliment her face shape. Also her hair tone does a fantastic job of flattering her skin tone.

Trends for Blondes - Almost Platinum

One of my favorite Blondes; Christina Aguilera with her pale skin tone looks great in an almost platinum blonde tone. I am happy to see she moved on from the "ghostly white look". This is a very classy hairstyle styled into large defined curls which sit beautifully on her shoulders. The top of her hair is pulled half back to create height and volume. This is an elegant style that is perfect for any occasion.

Trends for Redheads - toned down red with Blonde Highlights

When you choose red you choose to be noticed! Marcia Cross is an incredibly beautiful and talented actress. You may know her as Bree Van De Kamp on the surprise hit "Desperate Housewives". Marcia's soft and elegant style is a sensational look for her. Her hair length falls just past her shoulders and large waves at the ends of her hair create weight.

Whatever hair color you choose, consult your hairstylist, and before you make a final decision, try out the color in small portions on your hair. If it looks good then take the plunge. And oh by the way a basic tenet is that if you have to wear more make up than before after you color your hair, then you have the wrong hair color. A proper hair color should highlight your skin tone bring it alive and glowing. On the other hand, if you have made the wrong choice you will probably look tired and washed out.

Great Hair Care Tips

If you watch the tabloids, you know that even the stars have bad hair days. It just seems that when the professional stylists are out of the picture, it is inherently human to have a less than glamorous mane. But you can do your part to stay ahead of the battle by following these great tips for hair care.

1. Use a professional conditioner that is formulated for your specific hair type.

While you can skimp a little on the shampoo, a good, professional conditioner is a must have. Look for products in salons that are customized for your hair type. For instance: If you have color or a perm, choose a conditioner that is for chemically processed hair. And stay away from those all-in-one shampoo and conditioner combos.

2. Choose a cut tailored to your face and body shape.

The number one mistake that people make when choosing a new hairstyle is to pick a style based on popularity rather than how it will enhance their features. Always choose a new cut based on how it will enhance or detract from your facial features and build. If you have broad shoulders, choose a full-bodied cut over a close cropped head hugging doo.

3. Don’t forget your UV protectants.

Just as your skin gets damaged by wind and sun, so does your hair. To combat this, look for finishing products such as mousses, gels and sprays that block UV rays.

4. Keep your appointments.

Did you know that your hair will split faster than it will grow? You need to get a trim every 6 to 8 weeks, even if it’s just a micro trim. A good hairdresser makes them good because they know what to leave on the head, not take off.

5. Leave chemicals to the professionals.

There is a reason why beauticians need to go to school to learn how to handle chemicals and hair processes. You can do irreparable damage with these products even if the package says that it’s way easy. And even if you don’t make your hair fall out, you could end up looking like a clown and paying stylist big bucks to fix your mess. (Note: Most stylists charge double the rate for corrective color than they do for normal color processes)

6. Get color for interest and body.

Every cut needs a little bit of color to make it truly breathtaking. No matter whether your taste is subtle or dramatic, you can add interest and volume to your tresses with a color process. Highlights, lowlights, all over color, gray coverage, you name it, it’s all good for your look.

7. Do weekly conditioning treatments.

Even if your hair is extremely healthy, it is constantly on the attack from wind, sun, cold and heat. During the summer months, your hair is battered even more when it absorbs chlorine and other chemicals from your pool.

8. Get an Ionic Ceramic Flat Iron

Instead of frying your hair with a conventional metal plated flat iron. Straighten your tresses, add shine and infuse moisture with one of the a negative ionic flat irons. We personally use T3 irons for all our work.

9. Choose your styling products wisely.

Avoid products that leave build-up on your hair. If you see white gunk, that means that your product is not water-soluble and may be coating your hair shaft. Build-up causes limpness, breakage and inability to curl not to mention the white flakes.

10. Don't rub the towel back and forth on your head.

Did you know that if you use a towel after your shower to dry your hair you are causing split ends and adding static electricity to your hair? Instead of rubbing the towel back and forth over your hair, scrunch the towel around your hair like you would scrunch crackers in your soup. While all of these tips won’t make you look like you’ve hired a personal hairdresser, they will help you look the very best that you can each and every day. When it comes to hair care, remember that you wear your hair everyday. Now isn’t it worth the time, effort and money that it takes to keep it looking spectacular?

Hair Care Mistakes to Avoid

When it comes to essential hair care techniques, it is important to remember that there are some mistakes that many people may be using without knowing it. With all the different styles and products you use on your hair on a daily basis, you can imagine just how much damage your hair experiences. By learning what hair care tips to avoid, you can be sure to have strong and healthy hair, no matter what you do to it!

For those of you who are planning on growing out your short hairstyle, it is important not to avoid the hairdressers for months at a time. It can be easy to not get your hair trimmed because you are trying to grow it out, but this can lead to split ends and frizzy hair over time.

Not conditioning regularly is a very common mistake. It can seem like too much of a hassle at 8am, but conditioning is something that should be done daily. This can make your hair shinier, smoother and less frizzy if you continue conditioning daily for more than a month at a time.

Preparing your hair for heat activated treatment appliances is something everyone should get into the habit of doing. You would be amazed just how much your curling iron or flatiron can damage your hair and by using a heat defense spray, you can help minimize the damage.

Choosing the wrong hairstyle for your face is a common mistake and this can easily be prevented. By researching the most flattering hairstyle for your face shape you are creating a younger and chicer look for yourself.

Avoid trying to make your hair into something that it isn't. There are always new trends and styles in your face, but this does not mean you have to try and recreate them all on yourself. Not everything fits everyone's facial shape and when you try to make your hair into something it isn't, it never works out.

Choosing the right products can be a harder thing than you may think. Avoiding using the wrong products can only be accomplished by trial and error.

Dark roots are one of the biggest mistakes to avoid! No one likes to see dark roots when their hair color of the day is blonde, take the time to touch up your roots at home or with your hairstylist to avoid this common mistake.

If you like to pull you hair back in braids or ponytails, be careful how tight you pull them as the band is literally ripping at your hair the tighter you try and pull it.

Avoid over brushing and use a detangle product if you have a lot of knots after your shower. This can not only rip your hair right out but it really damages your hair's cuticles.

Do what you can to avoid the cheap coloring systems you can use from home, they have the power to not only greatly damage your hair but you are taking a great risk that the color may or may not turn out!

It is important to take the time to make sure how you are treating your hair is correct because you can only continue damaging your hair for so long before the time comes to do something about it. Take the precautions to treat and care for your hair the way it deserves to be cared for.

Summer Hair Care

Your hair needs care!

Sunlight can be as damaging as a hot blow dryer. Here are tips to help your hair bathe in the sun and shine.

Summer is here and with it come all sorts of outdoor, fun activities to do. It is also that time of the year when girls gear up to face hair problems thanks to the heat and humidity – some of which result in hair damage beyond repair. It’s not just your skin that sweats, but also your scalp. With hair sticking together in clumps, heat also dries your hair to make it look like hay. However, don’t panic as hair-care experts have identified all these problems and are ready with hair-care tips to beat the heat and help your hair bathe in the sun and still keep oozing health and fitness.

Summers are meant for vacationing and rejoicing in the sun. But sunlight can be as damaging as a hot blow dryer. Summer sun and humidity can damage your hair cuticles and result in dry, drab, split, brittle or frizzy hair and ends. Therefore, it becomes important to wear a hat when out in the hot sun as hair can get sunburns and so can the scalp. The only way to deal with severely burnt hair is by trimming the damaged sections off. But of course, prevention is the safest plan for sure.

Use shampoos and conditioners which are gentle and have UV protection to prevent your hair from the harmful rays of the sun. It is but natural that when the body sweats due to heat so will the sweat tissues in the scalp. Shampoo your hair on a regular basis – at least 3-4 times a week, but make sure you wash it with lukewarm water because hot water will strip the moisture and proteins leaving your hair dry and fragile. Hair needs to be treated more gently during the summers. Consider switching to an overall gentle shampoo that will cleanse your hair.

Don’t forget to condition your hair each time you shampoo. Shampoos take away the natural moisture from the hair in the bargain; therefore, conditioner is a must as it coats your hair strands, and nourishes, softens and smoothens it. It also helps reduce hair breakage. There are conditioners available in the market which reduce hair fall, and make your hair thick and long, and repair damage.

There cannot be anything better than using natural ingredients like henna and egg, but these are time-consuming and messy. There are a few shampoos and conditioners available in the market that contain natural ingredients and are safe. Curd and egg, no doubt, have been known to be natural conditioners. If your hair is fine or thin, you may wish to skip the rinse out conditioning step and apply a leave-on instead. Just as conditioners nourish your hair, leave-on detangles your hair, making it manageable. There are leave-ons available in the market, which add shine and repair damage. So, whenever you need to style, leave-ons are the best. Apply leave-on before you go out in the sun as it helps give style and also protects your hair from the sun. It also helps reduce frizz in your hair. If you normally use hot hair tools (blow dryers, hot irons, electric curlers) every day, try and give your hair a break during the summer months. Consider air drying your hair.

Take a break from hot curling. For this summer season, get a more manageable hairstyle, something that can be left open or tied up. May be two lengths very short or long, but into layers, as it adds bounce to a style. Keep the strands off your face this summer. As hair strands become greasy and make your face oily by falling on your face. Accessories with clips and you are ready to go. Fringes/bands make you touch your hair often that will result in dandruff and oily skin.

Hair Care Problems

Hair Parts

Did you know that changing your hair part can actually alter the entire look of a hairstyle? For example, middle parts divide the face into two equal portions and create the illusion of length. A side-part will do the opposite: by dividing the face into unequal portions the eye is forced to focus on the larger side, creating the illusion of width. Zigzag parts give a hairstyle more height, hide bad re-growth, and take some focus away from the forehead area/bridge of the nose. Why not change your hair part and check out the difference!

Don't Blow it All Away

To create a better hold use a blow dryer first to get rid of some moisture, and then apply styling products to your slightly damp hair.

Turn Up the Volume

There's a trick to remember about volumising products: always apply them to the roots of your hair. Why? Applying them to the ends will weigh your hair down-and that means no volume.

Hair Color Hold

To maximize the hold your new hair color has on your hair, try not to wash your hair for at least 48 hours after having it colored.

Natural Curls

For a natural finish when creating curls, curl your hair in different directions.

Blow Away Your Styling Time

Ask your stylist to show you the right way to blow-dry your hair. Learning how to blow-dry correctly will cut down on your styling time.

Tangle Troubles

Avoid tangles by using a detangler or leave in conditioner after washing and gently take the knots out with a wide toothed comb, working in small sections and from the ends up.

Keep Hold Of Your Curls

The best time to curl your hair is several hours before any big event so that your hair can settle and give you a great result. A medium to strong hold product will also help to keep your look luscious and to keep the curl in your hair.

Remember To Rinse

It's very important to rinse your shampoo and conditioner extremely well so that your hair isn't left with a dull residue, which will make it harder to style.

Time Saving Color

A hair color which will enhance your natural shade or one that isn't too high maintenance is the perfect way to keep your locks looking fabulous without too much time and effort.

Fuss-Free Styling

To save time and to avoid stressing yourself out, work with your natural hair type, not against it.

Bridal Hair

When having the trial for your wedding hairstyle, be sure to take photos of your hair from every angle possible to ensure that the style is right for you and that it suits your dress.

Product Overload

Overloading your hair with too much product is one of the fastest ways to ruin a newly created hairstyle. For a simple, basic style, a small amount of product is all that is needed and it does go a long way. To avoid adding too much, apply small amounts of product until you have achieved the look and hold that you want and then stop.

Curling Tools

• Use a curling iron for formal styles and defined curls • Scrunch your hair with mousse for casual curls • Use heated rollers for big, loose curls

Worried About Going From Long To Short?

Work through the problem by: • Making the change gradual by having more and more cut off each time your visit your hairdresser • Visit a hairstylist who knows about short hair and what will work for you • Find pictures of at least three short styles that you like and have a consultation with your hairdresser beforehand

Wedding Hair

To avoid a "what was I thinking?" moment when looking at your wedding photos in the years to come, choose a hairstyle which is timeless and looks soft, touchable, glossy, healthy and feminine.

Curls

When curling your hair, remember to use a curling balm to help reduce frizz and add nourishment to your hair as you style. Curling balm will also ensure that your curls sit better. If you find that your style comes up too curly, try smoothing your hair with a paddle brush to help tame the curls.

Eye Catching Color

Adding panels of contrasting color to your hair is a great way to create interest and an eye catching look. Ask your stylist to show you which color combos will liven up your locks today!

Fly-away Control

Use a paddle brush when blow-drying short hair because the flat design will give you better control over those tiny fly-away pieces.

Styling Brushes

To straighten your hair use a large round brush. To add body and curl use a small round brush. For a super sleek look use a flat paddle brush.

Outstanding Up-dos

An up-do will hold better if you style with day old hair. Clean hair is too soft and will stop your style from staying in place.

Flirty Bob's

Bob's are one of the most popular hairstyles and can be given a summery feel by adding a soft and textured finish.

Heat Styling Break

To give your hair a break from heat styling, experiment with up-dos!

Great Cut

The most important factor in hairstyling is a great cut. A good haircut will allow your style to fall into shape naturally and will save you time with styling and product use.

Tangles

To avoid tangles and strand damage caused by elastic hair bands, twist your hair up and secure it with pins instead.

Tired and Dried Out Hair

Revitalize your hair in an instant by treating yourself to a professional treatment and blow-dry. Not only will the treatment make you feel better, it will also moisturize and recondition the hair! Try it today and feel the difference!

Love Your Hair!

Changing your hair can sometimes be a very strenuous task, and as some woman may know, a very interesting learning experience. But, instead of changing your hair, why not try to maintain your tresses to suit you? Trimming your hair on a regular basis will help to keep your hair healthy and less frizzy, while using the right products can also help by maintaining the shape and color of your style. Try it today and see the results tomorrow!

Making That Color Last

So, you've just had your hair colored and 2 weeks later it has faded down to a dull shade. This can normally happen when you color your hair with a very vibrant color like red, copper or blonde. To combat color fade, try these simple tips: 1. Use a special color shampoo and conditioner to assist in keeping your color sharper. 2. Try a color treatment once a week to stop your hair drying out. 3. Limit blow-drying to once a week to stop color from fading out.

Feel Good About Your Hair

Is your hair tired? Do you need a new a hairdo? Maybe some color to spice your hair up? Your hair plays a vital part in your life, and if you are having a bad day, chances are so is your hair. 80% of people say that their hair makes them feel fresh, beautiful and ready for each day. So, to feel good about your hair, try something new today!

Great Gifts

You can never go wrong with a nice shampoo, condition and treatment pack. Most salons stock them year round and some come already wrapped! Remember, everyone needs shampoo!

Blow Drying vs. Chemical Straightening

If you don't like your waves or curls, you can say goodbye in an instant with chemical straighteners. Creating that perfect look isn't always cheap, however, and you can pay up to $1000 to have flawless straight hair for up to 4 to 6 months. But do you really want to keep spending that amount of money every time? If you can afford it, great! But if you can't then you can easily find different ways to have perfectly straight hair. 1. Try the large range of different straightening lotions available. 2. Blow-dry your hair. It's great and easy to do. 3. Try a straightening iron. 4. Hot rollers are great if you like a slight, soft curl. You can try the above ideas, as they are temporary and less costly, but if you really don't like your natural curl, a chemical straightener might be the way to go.

Choosing The Right Shampoo and Conditioner

When choosing a shampoo and conditioner, you need to make sure that you are clear on what your requirements are. Do you have colored hair? Oily roots? Dry scalp or dandruff? Or perhaps sun bleached ends? If you use the incorrect product the results can be disastrous! Be sure to ask your stylist for advice.

Choose The Perfect Straightener

Most straightening irons are stainless steel, which do not protect the hair as well as it should and can lead to breakage, frizz and fly-away. If you are unsure on the right straightening iron for you, here are some tips on how to choose the perfect straighteners. 1. Make sure the plates are ceramic plated (the plates look either gold or white) as this will reduce static and is less drying on your hair. 2. If you don't have a lot of arm strength, buy a thin, light weight straighteners. They may not look like they work, but they are awesome. Because they are weightless you can straighten your hair a lot quicker, and you can use them to get many different styling effects. 3. Cheap is not always best with straightening irons. They will range very differently in price, but be assured that the cheaper it is, the less use you will have for it. So, shop around.

Consultation. Is It Important?

When looking for a new hairstyle, having a consultation with your hairstylist is important. Your hairstylist will look at features such as hair texture, face shape, hair type and condition. Your hairstylist will also want to know a little about yourself, including details about your lifestyle, family, work, time available for home hair styling and your hairstyle history. It has been estimated that up to 90% of hairstyles go wrong as a result of poor planning and bad communication. So, be as specific as possible!

Razor Cutting

Ask for the latest hairstyle update by using a razor cutting technique. This technique can be applied to any length of hair.

Regular Trims

Keep your mane in great shape with regular six-weekly trims.

Volume Hair

The best time to apply a volumising product is when your hair is towel dried. If you apply a product to wet hair it will dilute it.

Hair-dryers

Most hair-dryers on the market have a cool shot button which blows a blast of cold air. This will help fix your style into place.

Hair Protection

Always use a heat protection spray before you blow-dry to retain the moisture in your hair.

Straight Hair

When blow-drying hair straight, always use a concentrated nozzle in a downwards direction to keep the hair flat.

Blow-drying

Create volume and lift by drying your hair upside down on a low/cool heat setting.

Get Practical

Soften your style by asking your hairdresser for a few layers around the perimeter of your hairline.

Maximize Natural Waves

Create lots of texture by applying gel spray at your roots to achieve lift and volume.

All About Hair Colors

Choosing Right Hair Colors

Today more and more people are coloring their hair. Some choose hair color for added shine and body while others choose hair color for gray coverage. Looking for the color that is right for you can be baffling. There are so many choices. And many people are concerned of the effects of the chemicals on their bodies. Repeated exposure to certain chemicals in hair color may cause a number of symptoms including rashes, nausea, hair loss, itchy scalp and flaking scalp. Understanding the types of hair color available and their ingredients will help you understand which color is right for you. All hair colors are not created equal. Some colors contain many synthetic ingredients, and a large amount of toxic or allergenic ingredients. Look at your labels. Do the research about the ingredients. Be selective about what you expose yourself to. Many stylists become chemically sensitive because they are exposed to so many chemicals and fumes on a regular basis.

The first category of hair color is a temporary hair color. These colors usually last for 1-2 shampoos. The spray on colors for Halloween and some "rinses" are often temporary. This may not be the case for blonde hair or porous and chemically treated hair (perms). These hair types may be extremely porous and may act as a sponge, holding the color molecules for an extended period of time in random places along the hair shaft.The ingredients in these colors may often be FD& C dyes, which may or may not be food grade. A temporary hair color is usually applied to dry hair in the spray form. If the temporary color is a liquid, it can be applied to shampooed hair. Follow manufacturer’s instructions and call the manufacturer if you have questions.

The second category of hair color is semi permanent hair color. These colors usually last for only 4-6 weeks. These colors have the ability to blend gray hair without lightening the color of the other hairs. The ingredients of semi permanent hair colors vary from brand to brand. Some use strictly food grade dyes, or FD & C dyes, with an alkalizer to open the hair shaft slightly. Other semi permanent hair colors may contain oxidative dyes similar to that of permanent hair color, but use an alkalizer to allow the oxidative dyes to deposit on the outside of the hair shaft. Follow manufacturer’s instructions for application and processing times and call the manufacturer if you have questions.

Another form of semi permanent hair color is the botanical hair color henna. The henna plant, also known as the LAWSONIA plant, can be a semi permanent hair color under certain conditions or progressive. You must not have extremely porous hair in order to take advantage of the temporary quality of the plant dyes. The henna plant comes in red tones. To alter the shade of the henna, some companies use a variety of ingredients. These ingredients may vary including: metals, oxidative dyes or other plant pigments such as indigo, madder root, turmeric or walnut. Metals may be extremely toxic to the body. Henna usually comes in a powder form and is mixed with water, coffee or black tea and applied to dry hair as a paste. The processing time varies from 15 minutes to several hours with a cap and heat depending on the effect you want to achieve.

Another type of color is a progressive dye. Progressive dyes deposit more color the more often you use them. The color builds with the frequency of application. Some progressive dyes may contain lead and other toxic metals. If you use a progressive dye and then decide to get a perm or a relaxer, you may run the risk of your hair melting away as the perm might have a reaction with the metals in your hair. Read the ingredients and make an educated choice.

Always follow manufacturer’s instructions and call the manufacturer if you have questions.

Permanent hair colors come in a variety of brands with a variety of ingredients. Some permanent colors have more natural ingredients than others as well as different concentrations of oxidative dyes. Oxidative dyes are chemicals that actually go into the hair shaft to develop into a color. Permanent hair color can use ammonia to open the hair shaft or monoethanolamine. Ammonia gets a bad rap. Ammonia in small concentrations is not toxic to the body and is necessary for some colors to cover gray or lighten the hair. Monoethanolamine is a chemical that has an odorless fume. In large concentrations (similarly to ammonia) it can be toxic. Monoethanolamine does not cover gray as well as ammonia and cannot lighten the hair as much as ammonia can. If you hair fades quickly and is extremely porous or damaged, a monoethanolamine color may be better for you, but it really depends on the brand. Some ammonia colors can be extremely conditioning depending on the other ingredients present in the hair color such as natural oils. Many colors tout "no resorcinol" but still contain a 2-methyl resorcinol. Many colors may lead you to believe they are natural when in fact they may contain one natural ingredient and the rest synthetic chemicals.

Lastly, what's the difference between a home color and a professional color?

Professional colors usually come with more choices, including strength of developers, while Home Kits are usually designed for gray coverage and one to two levels of lightening. To take a brunette to a blonde usually requires about 5 levels of lightening. A stylist can apply color in highlights, low lights or creative application of hair color in different shades. The fee they charge is for their time, their expertise in application and their knowledge of style.

Best Hair Tips

Best Hair Tips

Here are some great hair tips:

One of this falls more flattering hairstyle is the asymmetry bob. With its extremely angled sides and full front this style looks good on lots of face shapes. After washing, simply use some volumizer at the roots and blow dry with a round brush and lift as you dry.

Beauty Tip: What hair product was used on Lisa Kudrow's lightened hair to keep it healthy-looking during her “Friends” days? It is Potion 9 by Sebastian, and it is in our opinion, the ultimate product for silky, shiny hair. This product contains highly concentrated conditioners and makes even damaged hair look healthy and shiny. Since it is on the cutting edge of salon technology, it doubles as a leave-in conditioner and styling product, so you can have the best of both worlds. It is found in salons nationwide and now is available in select drug and discount department stores.

Beauty Tip: Want the latest technology in your hair care for healthy, shiny hair? Try Ojon Hair Styling Cream ($25, Ojon-Haircare.com).

Beauty Tip: Be careful when using styling products. Read the instructions first and use the smallest amount called for as a test. You may need more or less, but applying too much will make your hair look oily, unwashed and even dirty. If you do apply too much and have no time for a fresh wash, pull it all back and pretend you were going for the slicked back look. Don’t try using dry shampoo, it will just clump up and look even worse. Remember, more of a “good thing” isn’t always best.

Beauty Tip: What's hot in hair color right now? Brunette hair is back, but this time around, caramel highlights are all the rage.

Beauty Tip: For hot-right-now hairstyles, you might want to try a side part. Hairstylists say that this hair style flatters any face shape. Try a diagonal side part, by parting the hair at the front of the head at the side and then dragging the comb toward the center of your head at the back. Also hot right now is a half-up-do. Part your hair in the middle of your head from side to side so that your bangs hang flat in the front. Side swept bangs look best with this look. Then tease the hair at the back of your head to give it a Bardot-esque lift. Pin the teased hair up and then let the hair in the back and the sides hang down. Curl the ends for extra retro drama and be sure to don a few coats of mascara to complete the mod-romantic effect.

Beauty Tip: If your hair is normal to course, thick, color-treated, permed or damaged, select styling aids with silicone, oils, resins, plant mucilage (often in styling lotions, shine sprays and pomades) and the words gentle or moisturizing. Use sparingly.

Beauty Tip: Here's a great beauty tip - To be rid of fly-aways, rub a wire coat hanger across your hair, gently, or for more serious cases, rub a fabric softening sheet on your brush bristles. Use moisturizing products.

Beauty Tip: To be rid of hat hair, make finger curls with the long hair on top of your head, which the hat will be sitting on, by coiling hair around the fingers and clipping. When you get to your destination, take off the hat and uncoil the curls. Your hair will not be flat but will have soft waves instead.

Beauty Tip: If you forgot to wash your hair, but have to go somewhere, and it feels oily, sprinkle a little talcum powder on the scalp and then brush through the hair, being sure that it is no longer visible on the head. This is referred to as a dry-shampoo and should be used only in emergency situations. The talcum powder will absorb the oil. Wash your hair when you come home that day. A great trick for last minute invitations!

Beauty Tip: If your hair is oily or feels oily, after shampooing give it a vinegar or lemon rinse (lemon will smell better). Combine one part vinegar or lemon juice to 4 parts warm water and pour on the scalp. Rinse it out well. If your hair is chronically oily, do this once a week

Beauty Tip: Make your last rinse a cool one. This will help seal the cuticle, so that the hair will absorb more light and will shine more.

Beauty Tip: When your hair is in rollers, before taking the rollers out, blast them with cool air from your blow-dryer. This will help the curl hold longer.

Beauty Tip: Do not brush hair that has just been curled with rollers. Instead, use a pick. Pick from underneath to make curls springier and to give hair more body.

Beauty Tip: If you run out of conditioner you may use your facial moisturizer until you get a new one (basic moisturizers only, not ones with harsh "treatment ingredients" like AHAs, retinoids or anti acne ingredients). Do not, however, use your conditioner as a facial moisturizer; it may irritate your skin. You may also use conditioner if you run out of shaving cream.

Beauty Tip: To make your hair glisten beyond what shine enhancers can do, ask your salon if they give cellophane treatments. A gloss is applied to the hair which remains on the hair shaft for up to 6 weeks, before a new treatment is needed.

Beauty Tip: If you need to apply hair color to only certain sections of the hair, there are tools available at Sally’s Beauty Supply that resemble paintbrushes, but are used to apply hair color. Visit SallyBeauty.com for a store near you or to get more information.

Caring Hair Weave

Caring Hair Weave

Wash the hair before application. This will remove any residue from processing. Wash the hair in the shower taking care to keep the hair hanging loose.

Avoid using cheap shampoos and hair products when you care for a hair weave, because these tend to dry out the weave. Also they contain more detergent than conditioners.

Avoid cheap conditioners as the conditioners tend to be watered down giving less than the needed amount of conditioning to keep the hair from drying out. Remember that this hair is not growing out of the scalp and is not being replenished with natural oils.

Apply shampoo and condioners evenly throughout the hair. Squeeze the product through the hair. Avoid scrubbing, rubbing or bunching the hair together. Condition the hair well with a good cream based conditioner. Care weaved hair by always being gentle with products and handling. Use a quality spray on conditioner that is meant to be left in. This will help keep the hair weave soft.

Pat excess water from the hair and allow the hair to dry completely before going to bed. Never sleep with the hair wet or damp. Let the hair air dry whenever possible. If you use a blow dryer, dry out the wefted part of the hairpiece first. Then finish drying the hair from the ends up. Avoid pulling the hair while wet. Avoid using excess heat.

Loosen hair every morning and before going to bed. Most tightly curled styles should never be combed. Shake out curly styles, comb through straight styles and use a wide tooth comb or fingers to loosen wavy hair.

Avoid applying direct heat to the bonded area.

Salt from perspiration, if allowed to buildup on the hair will strip the hair making it hard `and brittle. If you exercise, make a practice of rinsing and conditioning the hair after each workout. Shampooing after a workout is not always necessary.

Use a mild stringent on the scalp in between washings. Witch hazel works well.

If you use a blow dryer use one with a diffusing tool to better circulate the heat.

If you have bonded extensions, avoid applying heat to the bonded areas.

Most hair extensions have been processed. For this reason, we don't recommend you color hair extensions. If you find you must color to get a better color match, try coloring your natural hair to match the hair piece. Additional chemical treatment on hair extensions can make the hair frizzy dull and difficult to manage.

More about Braids and Weaves

Braids and weaves look great, and give you many styling and color options.

Care Tips for Braids

You don’t let your hair be pulled too tight during braiding. This can result in hair loss. When you have braids, you will have to shampoo less often than with other styles. Frequently shampooing may lead to frizzing and loosening. Moisturize your scalp daily. Cover your hair with a silk-like scarf or bonnet when you sleep. Never use cholesterol-based conditioners. Avoid human hair extensions if you swim frequently.

Care Tips for Weaves

Treat your weave like your own hair.
Comb and style your weave daily.
Avoid using gels.
Avoid weaves with glue and adhesives.

Good Hair Care

Regardless of its length or style, we all want one thing: a healthy, great looking head of hair. But the first step to having healthy, luxurious hair is to know its exact type. Is it oily, dry or normal? Is your hair naturally curly or straight? Are you troubled by dandruff? Has your hair been processed in some way? Is it brittle or strong? Knowing your true starting point will allow you to better care for your hair and keep it looking its absolute best.

6 Essential Hair Care do’s:

- Do gently brush your hair each night before going to bed as it will stimulate blood flow to your scalp and promote healthy hair growth.

- Do be sure to hold the hair dryer at least six to eight inches away from your hair and keep it moving at all times to avoid scorching the hair.

- Do gently wash your hair using a mild shampoo suitable for your type of hair with lukewarm water.

- Do use a conditioner to keep your hair manageable, healthy, and free of tangles.

- Do be sure to drink plenty of water and follow a balanced diet. Many people aren’t aware of the important role that proper nutrition plays regarding healthy hair care. Water is essential to keep your body and hair properly hydrated.

- Do try to avoid touching your hair unnecessarily as the oils from your hands can cause your hair to lose its luster and become dirtier faster.

6 Essential Hair Care Don’ts:

- Don’t brush wet hair; use a comb instead to avoid pulling and risking breakage.

- Don’t blow-dry your hair every day; the constant heat will cause it to become brittle and prone to breakage. Likewise, use your curling iron on the lowest possible setting.

- Don’t over process your hair using strong dyes and chemicals. If you do relax your hair or have it permanently waved, be sure to wait as long as possible in between treatments to avoid over processing and damage.

- Don’t change your hair color to more than three shades, in either direction, lighter or darker, to avoid excessive damage.

- Don’t wash your hair in extra hot water, instead use warm, and use cool water for the final rinse. - Don’t allow stress to adversely affect your health, including your hair.