The Road to Healthy Hair

Posted on: January 12th, 2011

Top signs that your hair is in need of major TLC.

1. Damaged hair has an overall dry, brittle texture, looks coarse and frizzy and in general cannot hold colour well. Your hair has a life of about 2 to 6 years, which is a long time to keep hair healthy. What you do today has ramifications that can last up to 6 years. For example, though it may be months since you’ve highlighted your hair, the chemical mess left behind is still present in the hair strands.

2. Healthy hair has elasticity. If you take a strand of hair and pull it, it should stretch slightly. Damaged hair does not do this. It becomes very fragile and can break off in simple everyday styling or in severe weather. Weak and brittle hair will break in your hands rather than stretch. This is a clear sign that you need to improve the condition of your hair.

3. Lack of shine.There is an unmistakable shine to healthy hair. If your hair has lost its sheen it may be a sign of damage.

PREVENTION

Your hair combats many enemies on a daily basis; sun, chlorinated water, dry indoor heating, dry winter air, among others. If you add extra chemical treatments to the mix you need to be prepared for some extra care as well. Here are some tips:

• Try not to wash your hair every day. It will strip away the natural oils from your scalp which are needed to keep the entire hair strand moisturized. Use a product like 2nd Day Revitalizer, which is a gentle mist that lets you recreate your style without washing your hair, plus adds moisture and nutrients. If you need even more hydration, use a daily leave-in like Strictly Curls Leave-In Detangling Conditioner.

• Wet your hair completely before swimming in salt or chlorinated water. By ‘filling’ hair with water it is less likely to absorb salt or chlorine.

• Protect from the elements. Environmental stress, including the sun can give your hair and scalp a beating. When possible keep your hair away from stress like harsh sun and wind; hats, scarves and caps help.

• Filter hard water. Hard water can not only suck the shine out of hair, it can damage it. Chemicals in hard water can keep the cuticle open exacerbating damage by allowing everyday pollutants to get in. Using a filter for hard water can make a huge difference.

• Do not over dry your hair with the blow dryer as it will strip your hair of moisture. Leave your hair slightly damp instead of blow drying it 100%.

• Be sure to use quality products for your specific hair type and/or problem.

• When in doubt, talk to a professional to help create a program to get your hair on the road to recovery.

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Perfect Hair to Ring in the New Year

Posted on: December 28th, 2010

The countdown is on. The perfect outfit demands perfect hair. Here are some tips for a fashion-ready 2011.

BEFORE YOU BEGIN…

No matter the occasion, a good blow out is a must for full on New Year’s hair. Before you begin you style, apply stylers to clean, damp hair. Use Instantly Thick Hair Thickening Cream for fine hair or Style Straight Blow Straight Potion for wavy to curly hair. Blow your hair out using a round brush. Now, on to styling.

QUIET EVENING WITH FRIENDS…

With our busy lives an evening at home with friends becomes more popular each year. For this we love soft waves ala ‘Carrie Bradshaw’.

Once your hair is blown out add Moisture Gloss Daily Drops from roots to ends for high voltage shine.

Take large sections of hair and twist them around a large barrel curling iron, switching directions for each section. Keep the size of sections random so that your finished look will appear natural.

Once finished add a bit more Daily Drops to your finger tips and gently break up your wave so that it doesn’t look too contrived. A light spray with Pro Finish Ultimate Hold Hairspray and you are ready to greet your guests in style.

NIGHT ON THE TOWN…

Dancing the night away takes some preparation to deliver well. Think of Fergie’s fabulously famous high full ponytail. This can give you a runway look that stays in place for as long as you want to stay awake.

Once your hair is blown out you are now ready to set your tresses with Velcro rollers. We like to use large rollers to achieve a bit of wave with our volume. The larger the rollers the smoother the finished look. Take smooth sections of hair and pull them tight around the rollers. Spray each section with a bit of Pro Finish Ultimate Hold Hairspray. Leave the rollers in your hair for 20-30 minutes as you finish getting ready. Once your hair is set, remove the rollers and section out a portion of hair the size of a fringe at the front. Leave it be for now as you will need to work with this piece later

(Elastic with bobby pins)

With a firm brush pull the rest of your hair into a high ponytail. Take your time as this has to be smooth and tight to work well. Use a bit of hairspray as you brush it up to help keep it orderly. Once your hair is all smooth secure it with an elastic band. (PRO TIP – take the small elastic and add two bobby pins to each end for a do-it-yourself bungee hook. Take one of the bobby pins and anchor it to hair at the base of the ponytail. Pull the elastic tight and begin to wrap it around the pony. With the other hand hold the first pin in place. Once you have a good hold and the elastic is taught, take the other end with the pin and anchor it into hair. You now have a fool proof pony that will stay in place all night.)

Now, take the bit of hair you have left out at the front and gently add a bit of volume by back brushing (teasing) from the underneath; keep the top smooth. Move it back towards the pony keeping it a bit loose so that it gives you a bit of height. Wrap the rest of hair around the pony and pin in place. Now you are ready to dance all night long.

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Fabulous Hair is All You Need for the Holidays

Posted on: December 15th, 2010

This holiday season, put down your bling and opt for a sexy updo instead. When your hair makes a statement, there’s no need to accessorize. Try this look with a nude ear and neckline.

Prep

If your natural hair has a wave or curl, wash and condition with Style Straight™ Unwind Shampoo and Frizz Away Conditioner, followed by Instant Straightening Cream which will help to relax any kink. If your hair is fine prepare for more volume by washing and conditioning with Instantly Thick™ Hair Thickening Shampoo and Weightless Volumizing Conditioner, followed by Hair Thickening Cream for added lift.

Dry

This holiday look should have shine and movement so take your time when drying (it is, after all, for a special occasion and not to be rushed). Blow dry with a large round brush so that your hair is pulled straight and smooth.

Set

Once hair is dry it’s time for old school hot rollers. Yes, dust those babies off – they work best for this look. If hot rollers are not part of your fashionista kit then a large barrel curling iron is a nice alternative.  Have hair clips laid out on standby as each section of hair needs to be set securely to get a good large curl.

This look should have a polished finish so a neat set is a must. Make clean sections and comb each one out all the way to the ends before winding it around the rollers or iron. Clip each roller in place. If you are using a curling iron clip each section up immediately after removing the iron and while the hair is still warm – you want to mimic the shape of a roller. Spray each section with Pro Finish Ultimate Hold Hairspray to give it substantial hold.  Once finished give it a once over spray and leave it to set until well cooled. About 30 minutes while you finish getting ready.

Style

Remove the rollers and/or clips carefully trying not to disturb the curls. Do not brush it out. Instead, add a touch of Moisture Gloss™ Daily Drops to your fingertips and gently gather the curls to the centre-back of your head, keeping the front fairly loose. The Moisture Gloss will add shine and allow your fingers to glide without catching on the hair. Hold it with one hand and gently bobby pin around to get the gathered shape to hold. Once it feels firm take a mirror (any makeup mirror will do) and check the back to ensure the shape is to your liking. Tweak it if you have to. Once you are satisfied with the shape, take a few extra pins to ensure it will hold all night.

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The Waltz! Rhythmically Inspired Holiday Hair

Posted on: December 7th, 2010

Every girl needs at least one good Waltz in her life. This look is perfect, with the high society feel that has become synonymous with the Waltz. The beauty of this timeless classic is its ability to stay modern while maintaining an underlying structure of clean, elegant distinction.

1. Wash: Set the mood by shampooing and conditioning with Style Straight™ Unwind Shampoo and Frizz Away Conditioner. This will set the foundation for a smooth, clean finish.

2. Dry: Add a touch of Style Straight™ Blow Straight Potion and blow dry with the help of a large round brush which will get the hair straight while keeping a bit of fullness.

3. Section: Once hair is dry, separate it from ear to ear, leaving the front free for the moment.

4. Twist: Pull hair back as though you were going to make a loose ponytail. From the nape, begin to twist your hair up toward the crown, keeping it tight to the scalp. Pin as you go and once you reach the crown tuck in any extra bits of hair, securing them with bobby pins.

5. Part: Place your part wherever you like. Take the smaller section (unless you have chosen a centre part, in which case you can take either section) and twist it up pinning it to the back. Take the second front panel and sweep it so it lies where you like. Twist the rest toward the back and pin it neatly.

6. Finish: Complete with a good spray of Pro Finish Ultimate Hold Hairspray and a dab of Moisture Gloss™ Daily Drops for a lustrous finish. You are now beautiful and ready to fill your holiday dance card.

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The Salsa! Rhythmically Inspired Holiday Hair

Posted on: December 1st, 2010

This sexy number will keep you cool no matter how late you go. Notorious for synchronizing contrasting beats and movements, this Salsa gives you the best of both refinement and ruffle. With windswept waves gathered in union to form a low, sophisticated chignon, this look gives you a sexy type of elegance that only a Salsa can.

1. Wash: Begin your warm-up by washing and conditioning with Strictly Curls™ Curl Defining Shampoo and Frizz Sealing Conditioner.

2. Scrunch: On damp hair, apply Strictly Curls™ Curl Enhancing Foam, and gently scrunch to get a bit of texture going.

3. Dry: Allow to dry naturally or if time is an issue, use a diffuser.

4. Curl: Use a medium to large barrel curling iron and twist random bits of hair around it. Do not curl all of your hair as you do not want the look to end up overly finished. Instead you want to keep a natural sort of messy vibe. Add a small amount of Moisture Gloss™ Daily Drops for a high shine.

5. Bun: Use your fingers to loosely pull hair back to the crown forming a low ponytail, and then use your fingers to make a low, loose bun while pinning it in place. Feel free to leave a few pieces out as the mood suits you; after all, sexy is as sexy does.

6. Finish: Complete with a spray of Pro Finish Ultimate Hold Hairspray to hold the look in place as you shimmy on the dance floor.

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The Rumba! Rhythmically Inspired Holiday Hair

Posted on: November 25th, 2010

Stay on the dance floor all night long with this flirty number. Much like the dance, curvaceous lines, strong attitude and fast, free-flowing movement are the only way to pull this look off well. Naturally straight or giftedly curled, this look works with all hair types. Carefree, Rumba-worthy waves are just a click-of-your-heels away.

1. Wash: Set the stage by washing and conditioning with Strictly Curls™ Curl Defining Shampoo and Frizz Sealing Conditioner.

2. Prep: If your hair is straight add a bit of Strictly Curls™ Curl Defining Lotion to shake up some extra wave.

3. Dry: Quickly rough-dry your hair with a blow dryer. If you want to slightly loosen your natural curls blow dry with the assistance of your fingers, stretching out the curls as you dry.

4. Spray: Once hair is dry lightly spray all over with a bit of Pro Finish Ultimate Hold Hairspray and section the hair in 1 ½ inch panels.

5. Curl: Next you will need the help of a large barrel curling iron to curl each section from mid-shaft to ends. The best way to work this look is by switching the direction of the curl, which will give it a more natural feel. One section will be curled left-to-right while the other is right-to-left, and so on.

6. Tousle: Once your hair has been curled apply some Moisture Gloss™ Daily Drops to your fingertips and give it a quick tousle to break up the waves, which will give you a slightly messy finish with a bit of extra sparkle on the dance floor. Perfect for late-night Rumba mayhem.

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Curly Girl Fave – Rachelle Lefevre

Posted on: November 24th, 2010

Fabulous curls and a lot of it! Our Celebrity Stylist Team was on it at this year’s TIFF. She’s one of our celeb favorites and has been blessed with a wonderful abundance of curly tendrils that last for days. Now, how does one tame these fiery locks? With the power of Strictly Curls Curl Defining Lotion – that’s how.

For those of you who don’t know what to do with your full figured body of curls, the trick is to apply the Lotion to wet hair, which will tame and define your curls while they still have their best shape. Next, gently wrap your hair up in a towel to remove some of the extra moisture. Remove the towel and apply a good amount of Foam. Now that much of the water has been removed from your hair, it won’t dilute the hold of the Lotion, letting your curls last well until the camera’s fade to black. Finish with a touch of Moisture Gloss Daily Drops to reflect high shine off those curvaceous curls.

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Get Ahead of the Curve – Free Yourself from Frizz

Posted on: November 9th, 2010

Curly hair is notorious for chaotic frizz, dryness and disarray. It is the number concern of curly haired women, especially when autumn’s cool breeze begins to dry hair out – which is only the starting point for the moisture barren winter. Get ahead of the curve and follow helpful tips, tricks and secrets to tame frizz before the winter months begin.

WASH LESS

1. Curly hair tends to become dehydrated which can cause hair to be frizzy. Over-washing hair can worsen the problem by stripping the hair and scalp of its natural moisture. Read more…

CAREFUL HANDLING

2. Many curl wearers don’t realize that controlling frizz is also about the preparation and handling. During your condition and style it is essential to create as little movement as possible in the hair. Read more…

COLD WATER

3. Since curly hair tends to have a problem keeping the cuticle closed, you should do everything possible to close it and keep it that way. Read more…

DELICATE TOWEL DRYING

4. Do not rub vigorously with a towel. Instead, wrapping your hair in a towel during the styling process will help to scrunch the curl, minimize curl disturbance and speed up the drying process without adding frizz. Read more…

Hydrate Daily

5. To ensure you hair has sufficient moisture, we recommend using a daily leave-in conditioner. Read more…

Shield Humidity

6. Since excess moisture can also cause your hair to swell and become frizzy, you should always use a hair care regimen that is formulated to repel humidity. Read more…

Frizz Free Drying

7. It is best to dry using a method that works with your hair’s natural movement instead of against it. After your styling product has been applied, nothing dries curls quite as frizz-free as leaving them to dry on their own. Read more…

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Extend your summer cool into fall, with a fabulous hairstyle and the right sunglasses

Posted on: November 5th, 2010

You too can become a shady lady. Choosing the perfect pair of sunglasses is not always about the shape of your face. The way you wear your hair can make those shades bang or bust; maintaining a cool autumn do to frame those frames is key.

Your hair not only frames your face, it is also the framework for your sunglasses. So consider these important tips when picking those all important shades of fall.

BIG HAIR:

Keep in mind that big hair needs sunglasses that can deliver a statement. You do not want tiny aviators if your hair is full-on glamour.

THE CURL REALM:

Curly hair has its own domain and one must be careful not to oversize the sunglasses. Sexy is cool, silly is not. Large shades can work well but keep the color neutral and think about rimless.  The shades will do less while your hair remains the only star.

LONG LOCKS:

If your hair is long it’s important to pull your hair back before making the final purchase. What works with hair framing your face may be all wrong when your hair is out of the way.

SHADES FOR STRAIGHT:

Straight hair works well with sunglasses. You can work it with big and full or sleek and narrow. A fringe is even better because you can use even more ostentatious pieces. However, make sure the sunglasses are not wider than your hair.

MAKE IT MODERN:

For a modern look try tone-on-tone. There is nothing sexier than dark hair and dark shades.

SEMI-FORMAL:

For semi-formal occasions the idea is not to deter from your look but to enhance it. If it’s a semi-formal event you can use your everyday shades and dress up your hair. This works well with your hair up or down.

FORMAL & FANCY:

For a more formal occasion it’s much more about the hair. Keeping the glasses sleek and tight to the face is the best way to wear them.  Tone-on-tone to match your hair works well, or simply follow the color of the dress for a stronger image.

BEAUTY vs. BUSY:

Some shades come with built-in accessories, crystals and logos. This can make your face a bit busy so remember to keep your hair simple and minimize the jewelry.

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Overnight Curl

Posted on: November 2nd, 2010

OVERNIGHT WAVES

You can prepare your hair overnight to get a relaxed wave with mega movement in the morning. Simply spray a small amount of Strictly Curls™ Curl Booster evenly through your hair. Split your hair down the middle all the way down to your nape. Gather each of the 2 sections into high ponytails at the crown and twist each ponytail into a bun, holding it in place with bobby pins. It may look a bit Mickey Mouse, but in the morning you will have beautiful relaxed waves.

TAME CURLS

If you have curly hair that just won’t settle down, you can tame those curls into place while you slumber. You will wake up with easy to manage, beautiful coils. Before going to sleep add a small amount of Style Straight™ Instant Straightening Cream evenly throughout your hair. Gather your hair at the crown and loosely braid it. Fasten the end with a fabric covered elastic. In the morning, when you release the braid, your curls will be glorious waves.

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