Monday, January 26, 2009

Black Hair Dye Removal

Of all the colors we could apply to our hair, black hair dye has got to be the most difficult to remove.
The ingredients that produce a black hair dye are extremely potent. The color gets deep into the core of the hair strands.
There’re a few steps to removing black hair dye. It’s not just a matter of slapping on a different color, there’s a bit more to it if you want to do it right that is.
Unfortunately, there’s always a risk that your hair will weaken from the process of removing black hair dye from your hair.
The process usually starts with bleaching out the black dye.
• It’s critical that the black hair dye is removed evenly otherwise you’ll get different shades as the bleach works on your hair.
• To reduce the discoloring of your hair, use a toner after bleaching your hair.
Your hair will eventually reach a light shade after the bleaching process. After this happens, you can then add a color that is closer to your natural color, if that’s what you are going for.

Now, the above tips are for the daring ones that will tackle such a task at home. However, it is probably wise to visit your hair stylist to remove the black dye from your hair.
Most likely, they’ve done this process once or twice and they have the right tools for the job. They’re probably using professional strength bleaches and color removers, as well as conditioners that will most likely be needed throughout the process.

There are a number of leading product manufacturers that are producing excellent hair color removers. So if you are considering the at home method, consider using one of professional hair color remover products, but make sure to thoroughly follow the instructions.

Whether you are one of the brave souls who tackle such a task at home or rely on a professional hair stylist to do the trick, coloring your hair is never a walk in the park. Be patient and I’m sure you’ll end up with a beautiful new sexy color.

Monday, January 19, 2009

Hair Brush Secrets

The key to any successful result is starting out with the proper tools, no matter what the task at hand is. The hair industry definitely has its fair share of tools and the hairbrush is at the top of the list. There’s a reason why all the pro stylists have a variety of hairbrushes at their disposal. Whether you have long hair or short hair, there’s a hairbrush made just for you.
Now there’re a number of different types of hairbrushes to choose from. Each one serves it’s own purpose. Getting the right hairstyle has a lot to do with choosing the right hairbrush. Even though you may be using the proper hairbrush, you may still be damaging your hair if you’re not careful. Always remember, your hair is fragile and can break easily. So when using any hairbrush, take your time and be gentle, your hair will thank you for it.
Below you’ll find a few tips when it comes to your hairbrushes...

• Size does matter; when it comes to brushes that is. The length of your hair will determine which brush will work best.
• Usually wooden brushes that have a bit of weight to them tend to be easier to straighten your hair with.
• Hairbrushes and combs should always have rounded bristles for the most protection.
• If you are lucky enough to have thick frizzy hair, try and avoid brushing your hair to style it. Using a pick comb to get those finishing touches should give you the results you want.
• Smaller brushes should be used if you have fine hair. Smaller brushes will give you the ability to lift the hair at the root for more fullness.
• Avoid using any kind of brush on your wet hair. It’s a sure way to damage your and break your hair. Instead, going from the ends to just before the root with a wide-toothed comb will get the job done.
• Paddington brushes are best suitable for short hair. Make sure the brush has soft bristles so you won’t damage the hair.
• Those of us with hair that is of medium length should use a paddle brush with soft protective bristles.
• An extra large round brush should be used to blow out the curls of medium length hair that has a bit of a wave to it
• For that smooth-silky look use a larger paddle brush.
• A paddle brush is also good to straighten long thick hair.
• Mason Pearson hairbrushes are renowned for use on long hair. They are nice and thick, with loose-toothed bristles.
Any professional hair stylist will tell you, that having the right tools to create their masterpieces is half the battle. Whatever you do in life, proper preparation prevents poor performance. With the right tools, you could do anything you set your mind to.

Monday, January 12, 2009

Flat Iron Tips

Who doesn’t love that sleek, smooth look that only a flat iron can achieve?
Don’t be fooled, there are some drawbacks to that silky-smooth straight look.
One of the most important drawbacks is damaging the hair follicles. Over-use and inappropriate use is a sure way to keep your hair from looking its best.
Whether you’re using a ceramic, thermal, metal or ionic flat iron, excessive or miss-use will result in damaging your beautiful locks. The heat that flat irons produce keeps your hair dry and brittle and may damage the ends of your hair over time.

There are ways you can still use these essential hair tools and keep your hair healthy.
Below, you’ll find a few tips that may assist you in your journey in the flat iron world.

• Cleanliness is next to Godliness. If you keep your flat iron as clean as possible, it will not only last longer, but will do less damage as well. After all, the last thing we want is straight damaged hair.
• Before you dry and touch a flat iron to your hair, apply a small amount of product. All of the leading product manufacturers offer hair care products just for this purpose. Utilizing these styling products will help reduce the look of frizzy hair.
• When it comes to sectioning out your hair, use small sections. The smaller the section the flatter and more weightless your hair will be.
• Always thoroughly comb each section just before you flat iron it. This will give you an even result.
• A smooth even stroke from the root to the tips of your hair is suggested when using any flat iron.
• Even pressure is recommended throughout the entire process in order to produce optimal results.
• After flat ironing your hair apply a small amount of lightweight serum to smooth away any frizz that remains.
• If preferred, a wide bristle brush is recommended to finish off your desired results.
• Remember to clean your flat iron after each use. When cooled, just wipe it down with a clean cloth.

Last but not least, practice makes perfect. Don’t get discouraged if your results aren’t what you’re looking for the first time. The more you practice the better the end result. Keep these tips in mind and you’ll be on your way to that sexy, smooth, sleek hair we all desire.

Monday, January 5, 2009

Trimming Your Own Bangs

Definitely not for the faint at heart.
Those who can’t take the heat, step away from the shears.
Trimming bangs should be left to the professional hair stylists that created them in the first place, however, there are some of us out there who like to take things into our own hands whenever possible.
It’s been two weeks since you’ve seen your hairstylist and it’s already time to trim up those sexy bangs they gave you. What do you do?
Make another appointment just to have them clean up your bangs, or do you have the guts to give it a go? Trimming your own bangs will definitely give your haircut a fresh look in between visits to the hair salon.
So for those who have a certain je ne sais quoi, below you’ll find some steps that might aid in your quest for getting your bangs just the way you like them, at home that is.

Take a deep breath...

• Shears, obviously if you have professional hair shears, they’d probably be your best choice. But for those who don’t you’ll want to use a pair of straightedge cuticle or mustache scissors.
• Completely dry your bangs.
• Go ahead and style your bangs as you normally would and pin back the rest of your hair.
• You’ll want to start at the center of your bangs and work your way out.
• Using your index and middle fingers, take a very small section of hair and bring it straight down against your forehead. * Remember not to pull the hair too tight; you’ll end up cutting too much.
• Take the shears and slowly cut the hairs below your fingers. * To be safe, trim less so there’s room for correction just in case you made a mistake.
• When you are done trimming each section of one side, run a comb through it and into the rest of your bangs to check length and for any mistakes. Make any corrections before moving onto the other side.
• When you’re satisfied, repeat the same steps for the opposite side of your bangs.

Now, symmetry may be crucial for some but not others. If it is for you, then after trimming both sides of your bangs, comb together and make any correction that may be needed. Otherwise, don’t be afraid to get creative with how your bangs will lay. After all, they’re yours.