Ask Karen - July 2005 

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July 2005

July 20, 2005 
Wavy Hair Not Like Jessica Simpson?

Dear Karen,
 

I have very thick, wavy hair that was a few inches below shoulders.  I went to a new salon that just opened and asked for it to be cut into one of the cut new chin-length bobs like Jessica Simpson has.  The hairdresser told me that because my hair was so thick and naturally wavy that a bob style was not ideal for me.  She suggested that I go with longer layers instead.  I was upset that she didn't want to cut my hair like Jessica so I wouldn't let her cut my hair and left the salon instead.

Now I am confused.  Did I do the right thing?  Why is my hair not good for a short chin length bob?  Does that mean with my hair type that I can only wear long styles?  Help!

Tiffany

Answer

Dear Tiffany,

Thank your lucky stars that you encountered a hairdresser that was willing to be completely honest with you in sharing their professional opinion about what would be the best style for you.  Keep in mind that other hairdressers might have a different opinion about what would work for your hair type, texture and current hairstyle goals.   Other hairdressers might disagree with your wishes but go ahead and create a style that you might live to regret because it wasn't right for you.

When it comes to bobs and similar hairstyles, it is important to note that one size definitely does not fit all.  While Jessica Simpson looks fabulous in her hot new chin length bob, please keep in mind that Jessica has baby fine hair that is mostly straight textured.  She also has a very talented celebrity stylist - Ken Paves - working constantly with her tresses to craft the absolute perfect style designed for Jessica.

Of course I can not speak directly for the hairdresser that you visited.  Generally speaking though, it is true that super thick tresses that are naturally wavy might not be best suited for a shorter bob. Keep in mind that wave patterns will generally be softened by longer hair which provides extra weight.  When you remove length, the waves may tend to become more prominent. 

A style designed with longer layers that control your waves might be more ideal for your hair type, texture, face shape and lifestyle requirements.

Did you make a mistake by walking out?  When it comes to your personal comfort level, it is always important that you take your feelings about your hair into serious consideration and act accordingly.  If you are not comfortable with what a hairdresser suggests you do with your tresses, by all means, leave immediately with as much politeness as possible. Of course you should always offer to pay for any time that the hairdresser spent with you. 

For future reference, you may wish to book a few "consultations" with a couple of hairdressers.  Be sure to explain when you book your appointment that you wish to pay for a consultation but are not sure that you will want to go ahead with any additional services.  That provides the hairdresser with clear information about your goals and they can schedule accordingly. 

Take four or five clear photos of styles that you admire.  Discuss your goals and then let the hairdresser share their expert opinions with you.  Ask them if the style will kick up your waves or if there are other hidden considerations to evaluate.

When you find a hairdresser that you trust will create a style that is close to your goals but that will enhance your own assets, then make a follow up appointment for a cut.

Remember to watch the stylist closely while they are cutting and styling your hair so that you can recreate the same look when you get home.  Be sure to ask for product recommendations that will also help you achieve a successful recreation.

Best wishes,

Karen
 


July 10, 2005 
Hair Long Enough For Hair Extensions?

Dear Karen,
 

Hi, I recently just bleached my hair and the stylist left it on too long, now whenever I wash my hair I find difficulty in combing it. My hair feels terrible!  What can I do to have my old sleek and shiny hair back?

Rashied

Answer

Dear Rashied,

The good news is that with some time, patience and tender loving care you can eventually have sleek and shiny hair again.  The bad news is that it will not happen overnight unless you are willing to have most of the length removed that has been bleached and start with super short strands.

When hair is bleached, either at home or by a colorist, the process of removing natural color in your hair requires a lifting agent such as hydrogen peroxide or similar that removes most of the natural pigment or color from you hair.  The opening of the cuticle to lift and remove color is very damaging and removes natural moisture in the cuticle.

Consider adopting some of these suggestions to help add back moisture

  • Shampoo only as often as necessary.  If possible, shampoo only 1-2x a week.
  • Use a moisture enhancing shampoo such as Phytojoba or a shampoo designed for chemically treated hair such as Phytocitrus.
  • Give yourself a deep-conditioning treatment at least once a week.
  • Comb your hair gently (especially when it’s wet – that’s when it’s at its weakest point) and keep any heat-styling tools on a low setting.
  • Use a tiny bit of silicone serum like Frizz Ease or Phytolisse to temporarily coat and smooth the hair cuticle and add a bit of shine.

Best wishes,

Karen


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