SummerTime Tips

HELLO READERS! 

I know I've disappeared for a moment but Im back now. Sorry! Ive missed you too! Hopefully everyone is having a great summer. To help keep it great and to help keep your hair in tip-top condition, here are a few tips to get you through the summer wear and tear.

1. SWIMMERS: Always, Always, ALWAYS shampoo your hair after swimming, especially in pools. The water is full of harmful chemicals that can change how your hair looks and feels. A few companies, such as Redken offer an "after swim" shampoo that you can look into using.

2.  MOISTURIZE... I can't stress this enough. Proper moisture is the key to healthy hair. The sun rays and other factors can effect the way your hair feels. By keeping it moisturized you battle dryness which can lead to breakage and perhaps an unwanted haircut!

3.  COVER YOUR HEAD: If by chance you dont prefer to deal with your hair, you can shampoo it properly, use a great conditioner and cover your dome with a nice sunhat or ball cap. By doing this you also get added protection from the sun. Even if you aren't showing your locks you should still keep them in good condition, with our without the hat.

4.  NO WET PONYTAILS:  Ladies I know you have a habit of pulling your wet hair into ponytails. Whether its after swimming or sweating in the gym. PLEASE STOP!  By constricting your hair while its wet, you risk constant breakage. Be sure your hair is fully dry and that your hair ties/clips aren't too tight.

5.  SHY AWAY FROM BACK TO BACK CHEMICALS:  By this I mean, don't go into the salon and get a chemical service performed (ie: relaxer, color, perm) then get into a pool full of chlorine (also a chemical). By doing this you risk severe dryness and breakage. Talk with your stylist about your summer plans and schedule before getting a chemical service.

This was just a few tips to get you started. I hope everyone has a safe and fun summer! Stay posted while I add more updates and tips.

 

Mo' HAIR!

Continuing The Blog....

ATTENTION READERS:

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~FARRAH~

Weighing Your Options

In life, when seeking change, it is important to weigh your options in order to figure out if the change is worthwhile. The same rules apply when contemplating a change in hairstyle.  Sometimes people make drastic decisions based on circumstances, emotions or lifestyle, only to feel trapped in their new "do" or to find out that its not working for them. Being prepared and researching your future style is as important as having the right stylist to service you. So before you go any further, consider these tips:

1. Schedule a consultation. After you have decided on your stylist of choice, research the type of styles that you are considering. Check online for pictures as well as various hair magazines. Have many options in mind.

2. Make a list. Consider the pros and cons of your current hairstyle. Also make a list of what you would like to achieve from the future hairstyle. Be true to yourself about what you like and don’t like.

3. Ask questions. Once you have your pictures and your list, ask the stylist how each look is achieved AND maintained. Also go over the cost of the service and the future costs in order to maintain your style.

4. Don't fear rejection. Be prepared to possibly be disappointed. The reality is that every style isn’t for everybody. As a stylist, that is his/her job to make sure that the look you are considering fits your face and features, as well as your hair texture. But don’t fret, you can mix and match different styles for a custom look just for you.

5. Take your time.  Don’t make any drastic or hasty decisions. Relax and take time to think about all the information that you were given and which styles you like and don’t like. You have the final say.
 

Follow these few easy steps and I guarantee that you'll make the right decision for you. Who knows? You may even decide that your current style works the best and you end up making no changes. But its best to know these things in advance before you leave the salon as an unhappy customer.

Good luck and MO' HAIR!

Prom -Which style do I wear?

Happy MAY everybody! :)

Do you know what May brings? The only time in a girl's life (besides her wedding day) where she will do everything possible in order to make sure her hair, nails, skin and outfit is 100% up to par! Yes Ladies & Gents:   

IT'S PROM SEASON :)

These days it doesn’t seem to be as big a deal as it was back when I was growing up, but I personally think it’s a time that every young lady should experience. Yes the fellas are needed to escort the ladies, but let's be honest, just like a wedding, this day is more often steered by the prom go-er (and her mother).

So with that being said you want your hairstyle to evenly match your dress. If your dress has a lot of accents on it, you don’t want to wear an up do that is too "busy". It’s tricky when it comes to matching hairstyles to a person's face and neckline of the chosen dress.

Here are a few tips:

1.      About a month before the prom, seek a professional stylist to help you achieve your look. Bring in pictures, magazines or anything else you can find of ideas for your style. 

2.      Be sure to bring a picture of your dress or be able to accurately explain the neckline to your stylist. Is your dress a halter? Strapless? High neck? V-neck? These things matter so bring all the valuable information.  At that time your stylist can go over which styles work with your dress and face structure.

3.      Be open to options. Remember every style isn’t for everybody. By working together you can mix and match ideas to come up with something unique for you and your look. 

4.       Wear a button down shirt. There's nothing worse than having the cutest style then completely ruin it by pulling off a t-shirt while trying to get into the shower.

5.       After deciding on a look, schedule your time accordingly. If you know you have extremely long or thick hair or you are getting a style that takes some time, don’t schedule your appointment 3 hours before you need to be there. This is a special day… you don’t want to rush your style (or stylist!)

6.       Understand the cost. This isn’t your average wash and style service. Many stylists move their regular clientele to accommodate those going to prom. These courtesies sometimes go unnoticed but usually worked into the cost of your style. Time and creativity is being put into your special day and 9 times out of 10 it is a style that you wont have again and don’t usually wear, so be understanding on why the cost are a bit steeper.

7.       If extensions are needed, don’t get it done THAT day. I suggest going in a few days prior (or even a week) and then coming in on prom day for a styling. Extensions are time consuming and more than likely the stylist has other clients that day. This may cause an issue with your time schedule, so to save yourself some stress and/or hassle, just don’t do it.

Hopefully everyone will have a safe prom season. Send me a pic! :) 

How Soon Is Too Soon?

Everyone tries to get the most out of their style, usually by prolonging the time in between services. There are some instances where this is ok and times when it can work against you. Below you will find the proper amount of time to wait between your appointments. Take a look:

Permanent Color / Every 4-6 Weeks

The ideal time to wait is 4-6 weeks. If you are wearing another chemical service as well such as a relaxer or a perm make sure you wait at least 2-3 weeks between each chemical service in order to prevent massive breakage. If you have a finer texture of hair, you may also want to wait a little longer. Tip: Sticking to a shade closer to your natural color will make it easier for you. Your roots wont show as much. Not to mention the lighter you go the harsher it is on your hair.

Hair Extensions / 8weeks - 6months

There are many types of hair extensions; all in different price ranges and lasting different amounts of time. Leaving your extensions in longer than recommended can lead to tangles, hair loss, and breakage. I don't recommend you getting a service that you aren't willing to maintain properly. Know you limits. Of course every person is different and sometimes styles last longer than others as well as less time than others. But just because it still looks good to YOU 4months later, doesn't mean its good for your hair OR scalp. Extensions done with bonding glue are generally good for approx 2-3weeks MAX!  Sew-Ins 8weeks, Braids 2weeks-3months (depending on style and type of hair used, if any) and fusion anywhere from 3-6months. Ive seen some stylist advertise that they can last a year with proper maintenance. I don't doubt it, but that isn't for everyone. Use caution and seek a professional for all extension services. Tip: Be sure to shampoo your hair and scalp thoroughly. If your service was done with bonding glue it CAN NOT be shampooed.  All others please be sure to maintain healthy hair and scalp. Remember if a stylist tells you not to shampoo your hair with your extensions, (unless its bonding glue) DO IT ANYWAY... and find a new stylist.

Relaxer Touch Up / 4-8 Weeks

Every 6 weeks is the average amount of time between touch ups. Certain hair types and textures can go longer without suffering any damage. Keep in mind, if you are going to wait extended amounts of time between touch-ups, you must take EXTRA special care of your hair so that it doesn't break at the line of demarcation between new growth and previously relaxed hair. There are times when a 4week relaxer touch-up may be needed. This usually happens if a "corrective" relaxer needs to be done or for women who just need a little around the back and edges. My short haired friends can vouch for this ;) Tip: Make sure you wait the proper amount of time. Getting a relaxer too soon when there isn't enough new-growth can cause overlapping of chemicals which can weaken your hair structure and cause breakage.

Texturizer / 4weeks - 6months

You may notice the time frame on texturizers have a very wide range.  That is because it depends on the length of hair being processed. Those with shorter styles will probably get it more often... somewhere between 4-6weeks, while those with longer hair or fine textures will wait longer, only getting it done a couple times a year. See your stylist to find out what time frame is best for you.Tip: For those with shorter styles who like the curly look, if you keep hair cut regularly, it will increase the amount of curls. The longer it gets the more relaxed the curl pattern will be.

If I missed something that you have a question about, leave it in the comment section and I promise to return with an answer or advice for all :)

MO' HAIR!

Finding The Right One

Finding the right stylist or barber, is just as hard as finding the right car, job and mate. Probably more like a mate because it’s definitely a relationship that you want to keep as long as possible and you want to work out. You get to know one another; their needs, wants, likes and dislikes. Just like any relationship there is a lot of give and take on both parts. When treating each other right, you both benefit. The stylist benefits by having your business and you benefit by receiving healthy hair. It’s a win-win for all. The best thing for your hair is to get it accustomed to one pair of hands.

Constantly moving around from stylist to stylist is a quick way to end up with hair issues. Different products, skill levels and personal styles can cause your hair to suffer. I find that people move around for many reasons. Scheduling, personality conflicts, location, bad service but most of all PRICE!  I’m all about finding a deal… trust me. But as the old saying goes, sometimes you get what you pay for. And although super cheap hair isn’t a good idea, don’t assume that the more pricey places will give you glamorous service or hair. I’ve heard my fair share of places that charge ga-zillion dollars to make you look like you did it at home yourself. In that instance, you paid for atmosphere. I’ve also seen some wonderful stylists, but their downfall is they will keep you in the chair ALL day long.That may be okay with some clients but for others they may prefer to find someone just as good, but who moves a bit faster.

Of course we all know that you can spend your money any way that you want to, but just be careful. If the barber/stylist that you go to, have more positives than negatives, then I’d suggest that you stay there. No one is perfect and you cant please everyone. Find someone that you like and trust and most of all STAY LOYAL to that stylist. Being a loyal client has its perks such as discounted pricing or occasional free services or VIP scheduling. I understand that there are some situations will cause you to break up, but if all is going well 95% of the time, then you are in a good place. 

WE APPRECIATE YOU!
So hopefully you appreciate us in return :)  
MO HAIR!

Brand Of The Week

Aphogee

Aphogee specializes in repairing broken and damaged hair. There is alot of protein in the Aphogee products, which helps aid in the reconstructing of hair during brutal times. Ive been a fan of this line for many years and have witnessed first hand results! You can read more about their product line on their website

Aphogee can be found in your local beauty supply store.

WinterTime Hair Blues

If you are an avid reader of The Hair 411, then you recently read the post regarding springtime being on the way (and I can't wait)! But before we can get there, we still have to win this war with winter weather and its drying effects on our hair and scalp.

This has been a harsh winter all over the nation and people have sacrificed their hair just to stay warm! Its quick and easy to just throw a hat on and keep on steppin'. Although we are warm, that hat is doing nothing for the integrity of our hair. Most winter hats are wool or cotton, which is terrible for hair. The fabric is very drying and draws out the moisture that we need, which in turn leads to dry, brittle and broken hair. I frown at that! When possible wrap a silk or satin scarf on your head under your hat, to trap moisture and stop any possible friction.

The key to getting through these weather traumas is moisture. Its better to be over moisturized than to be under so keep a good stock of conditioner, hot oil treatments and moisturizers on hand. Also blow dry less and avoid too much cotton and/or wool items on your hair. Beware of turtlenecks because the constant friction at the base of your head (neckline) can cause damage when turning your head. I'm not saying don't wear them, just be careful. Perhaps drape a silk scarf around your neck for added protection.  You'll protect your hair and be fashionable all at the same time. :)

Brand Of The Week

 Barry Fletcher Products

I met Barry Fletcher during my first hair show in New York City many years ago. I enjoyed his products then and I enjoy them just as much now. These products are VERY moisturizing, your hair will feel and smell great!

This isnt a product you can just go and pick up anywhere, it is usually retailed in professional salons or you can contact the company direct to find out exactly how and where to purchase.

Tell him you were referred by TheHair411.blogspot.com !!!

Express Yourself

After 14 years in the business, sometimes I feel I’ve heard it all. True enough I get new lines here and there but overall, any seasoned hairstylist has heard one of these lines at one point or another in their career. 

So here are a few of my favorites …Enjoy!

“That’s not what I asked for” – Trying to describe a particular hairstyle can be difficult, especially when you aren’t using the correct terminology for the look you are trying to achieve. Hairstylists are just that… hairstylist. Meaning we aren’t mind readers. So for best results, bring a picture in or try to find something close from one of the salon hair books. Mix and match pictures if you have to. But trying to explain what you’re picturing in your head, what someone has on TV, or what you just seen in the store really don’t work. If you aren’t on the same page, keep talking until you get there.

“I want my hair like _______” - Women do it. Men do it. Going into the salon or barbershop hoping to mimic a particular style of an actor, singer, or athlete. The problem here is if your hair isn’t the same texture, density or you don’t have the same face shape, you can’t truly expect to end up looking exact. To be perfectly honest, some of your favorite styles may be wigs or weaves, so copying a style that may not be natural will definitely cause an immediate difference when you look at yourself in the mirror. Be prepared for what it may take to get that particular style. It may require a permanent relaxer, a perm, extensions, a cut or all of the above. Find out the maintenance that it takes to keep that style, it could cause you more headache than you originally bargained for. Know your hair limits and understand that every style isn’t for every body.

“Wait, its HOW much?” – Just as the saying goes “You get what you pay for”. I for one love what I do, but I do not do it as a hobby. This is my career and this is business, so it amazes me when I hear people say how much someone charged them. Yes I can agree sometimes people overcharge at times, but understand all that goes into making you look good – products, time, skill and knowledge. These things are priceless in my opinion, which is why you go to a professional in the first place, right? When you pick styles out of a book that are a bit jazzy or different from your usual, you shouldn’t be shocked when its not the same price that you paid on your previous visit. Saying you didn’t expect it or that you don’t HAVE the money after the service is complete DEFINITELY isn’t the way to go. Who knows how that stylist may react! Discuss the style and price before the stylist even gets started. He/She may be able to find ways to give you a similar look without as much detail that will fit into your budget. Remember, there are no returns in the hair business. 

Most popular hairstyles, past and present:

Rhianna       Jennifer Aniston       Nancy Grace        Halle Berry     Farrah Fawcett       Jonas Brothers     Fantasia       Victoria Beckham       Allen Iverson          Ellen       Beyonce       David Beckham      Johnny Depp       Mary J.Blige       Laura Bush      Adam Levine     Oprah

Shedding vs Breakage --Get The Facts

     Many times our hair goes through changes for many reasons. Weather, age, environment, stress, diet, medication, hereditary, products and sometimes just because that’s what hair does. The first key to combating these changes is to find out what is causing these issues and determining if your issue is shedding or breakage. If you find that nothing in your life has changed, then just assume it’s the natural shedding process that hair goes through. Whether we like it or not, hair sheds approximately 50-150 strands per day. However, breakage isn’t supposed to happen.

Houston, we have a problem.

     When your hair sheds it will come out at the full length of your hair. In other words, it’s coming out at the root. Anything shorter than your hair length is breakage. Overly dry hair and scalp is the #1 reason your hair will break. MOISTURE, MOISTURE, MOISTURE – I cant stress it enough because we all need it. You know what its like to feel thirsty, so imagine what your hair is feeling!

     In most cases breakage requires a haircut of some sort. Now exactly how much you will need to cut depends on how severe your damage is (seek a professional for consultation). In this instance you want to do moisture and/or protein treatments weekly or bi-weekly, to get your hair back in order. This can be done in the salon or go to your local beauty supply and pick up some conditioner for home. You should change your pillowcases to silk or satin, it helps in retaining moisture. Also drink plenty of water; add more protein and veggies to your diet and most of all, BE PATIENT!

     I know, I know…easier said than done. But hair grows at its own pace, regardless of what ad you see on TV or in the back of your favorite magazine. (We’ll touch on this in the future). Breakage is never a happy time; we’ve all been there. But one good thing that can come from this is a new hair-do! Possible styles depend on the location of your problem. For example, if you have breakage at the nape of your neck, then a cute bob style may come out of this. An all over super short cut isn’t always required just because you have breakage; this is where a consultation comes in. And if you are a bit hesitant about what that stylist is telling you, feel free to seek another professional. Consultations are generally free anywhere you go. Remember: The true definition of good hair is HEALTHY hair!

**Great products to try**

Please note: Some products may be available for purchase in salon only

 
Nioxin Deep Repair Hair Mask

Essations Moisture Sheen Conditioner
ApHogee Keratin 2-Minute Reconstructor 

      

Trimmed Ends - What A Good Look

      The battle continues between client and stylist when it comes to trimming ends. Consider it a necessary evil, but necessary nonetheless. That “length” that you are holding onto isn’t cute…because the people behind you can see through it - Ha!

      But seriously, your hair needs trimming approximately every 6 weeks, unless you are drying it out and damaging it more with excessive heat and styling, then you may require more (which you do NOT want to happen). African-American women are the worst at this, mainly because our hair does not grow as fast as other races. Therefore the sistas are more likely to not get it done out of fear that it wont grow back. But trust me, it does and it grows back in healthier form. When you get your ends trimmed on a regular schedule you shouldn’t lose more than ¼ of an inch. It’s when you DON’T trim it on time that you lose more than you wanted or expected.

     I understand there are many hairstylists out there who have ruined your trust when it comes to anyone coming close to your locks with anything sharp. But I promise, there are many of us who do understand the difference between a trim and a haircut. Ask your stylist to show you what they are cutting and what you need removed.  Just understand if you have 2 inches of split ends (for whatever reason) you need to cut 2 inches. Cutting 1 inch means you still have 1 inch of split ends and not getting it done completely is just like not getting it done at all, so be realistic.

A trim is off of the very ends of your hair shaft. If you came in with 700 layers you should leave with 700 layers…just layers with even ends. If you came in with layers and leave out all one length, you just got a haircut (and are probably instantly ticked off).  Now if every time you get your hair done the stylist wants to trim your ends, its one of 4 reasons:

1.    You don’t come in often enough so its that time again

2.    You didn’t cut enough off and still have split ends

3.    Damage is occurring somewhere between appointments

4.    You have a scissor happy stylist…. Run! 

If you wear a relaxed style, get your ends trimmed when you get your 6week touch-up so that you can stay on schedule. If you go natural, wear braids, weaves or only go into the salon for color touch ups, trim it during those appointments as well. So in a few of those instances, it may very well be 8 weeks, but I wouldn't suggest going any longer. Good luck and  Mo’ Hair!