Ask Karen - February 2001

February 9, 2001
When Were Perms invented?

Question

Dear Karen,

HairBoutique.com seems to have just about every little fact about hair you can find anywhere.However, I did not see anything about when Perms were invented or by whom.

Can you give me some information on this chemical hair curling process?

Donald

Answer

Dear Donald,

To the best of my knowledge it is my understanding that Karl Nessler created the first perm or permanent hair wave back in the period of 1890 - 1900.

I don't know the exact date the perm was introduced by Nessler, who went by the name of Nestle.

I do know that the perm was reported to have been very expensive and take over 12 hours to accomplish. Before the introduction of Nessler's perm women relied on rag curlers or hot curling irons to achieve curls in straight hair.

In current times perms have fallen out of favor except with a small group of the population since perms have the reputation of causing long term chemical hair damage and unless applied correctly, lose their oomph after a short period of time.

Best wishes,

Karen

February 4, 2001
Slimming Face Tips?

Question

Dear Karen,

I have been working hard to lose weight and have recently gotten a fabulous shag cut, as you recommended, to slenderize my chubby face. I had highlights added around the crown, as you also suggested, to open up my face and eyes and it worked great.

So now I am wondering if I can wear certain jewelry to add even more slenderizing to my face and overall look. Any tips you can offer would be great appreciated.

Your biggest fan,

Shirley

Answer

Dear Shirley,

Makeup can help a lot. Getting the right colors and contours will definitely enhance and slenderize. I recommend that you head to the nearest makeup counter of your choice to get some advice and possibly a makeover.

I also recommend that you couple your gorgeous new cut with the right earrings. Yes, jewelry does make a difference in your overall look. Beauty consultants have long known that you can create the illusion of a longer or more slender face with teardrop earrings. The length of the earrings will create a subliminal image of a longer face. Just as people with round faces should avoid round glass frames, avoid any type of round earrings.

Hoop earrings may or may not work depending on the overall length of your neck. People with shorter necks should definitely consider avoiding loops or hoops that may make their necks appear even shorter and therefore add roundness to the face. On the other hand, people who want to shorten the appearance of a long neck or face should consider smaller loops that are 1 - 1 1/2 in diameter. Remember, longer bigger loops add length and fullness.

While you are having your makeup consultation ask the consultant for additional jewelry suggestions. Silver is known to tone down pink and red tones and gold jewelry lightens skin tones.

Necklaces should also be selected carefully. Choker necklaces would be a bad choice if you have a short neck or round face. Instead consider a necklace that will create a V shape to slenderize your face.

Yes, there are many little tricks you can use from selecting the right color or gems and metal to the appropriate shape. Try on several earrings until you get the Eureka factor to the look. Use the right colors and styles of makeup and you are on your way to totally gorgeous.

Best wishes,

Karen

By submitting your question, you grant HairBoutique.com permission to publish it. Due to the volume of mail we receive, Karen regrets that she cannot respond to every question. To Ask Karen your questions send e-mail to askkaren@hairboutique.com