Spring Hair – Shiny & Healthy

As we come out of winter, and think about spring time, everything is new and fresh.  Bulbs that you planted in the fall are popping up in bright, colorful flowers.  People are thinking about their summer garden. Are you thinking about how to refresh your hair from the cold dry air of winter?

We’re lucky in California that we don’t have those harsh winters like the East Coast that cause your hair to become dry and brittle. But, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be thinking about how to bring shine and moisture back to your hair.

Whether you’re adding moisture through your NaturalTech shampoo and conditioner, and a treatment afterwards, it’s a great time to get your hair ready for Spring.  Because, doesn’t everyone want clean, shiny hair?

Here is a trio of tips to get your hair prepared:

• While you were putting lotions and potions on your hair to protect it from the cold dry winters of California, it was weighing down your hair and clogs up your scalp. Schedule a deep cleansing hair and scalp treatment with me. I can help you figure what your hair needs most.
• A clarifying shampoo helps remove mineral deposits from hard water and chlorine from swimming pool chemicals. This step is particularly helpful for color-treated or chemically-damaged hair. TIP: Use a clarifying shampoo one or two days before you get your hair colored so it has a better chance of depositing well onto your hair
• Hydrate & Restore. Now it’s time to replace the missing moisture with a leave-in hair treatment. If you are concerned about a dry scalp, use products with Hyaluronic Acid (a natural lubricant) and Sodium PCA (protein).

 You can always schedule an appointment with me to discuss it.  Just Book It Here.  Now that you’re going to have beautiful hair, where are you going to take yourself?

Bangs – The Long and Short of Them

Bangs – You either love them or hate them. Maybe you have bad memories from when you were a child and your bangs were only one inch long.  You could hardly call them bangs, they were barely a “fringe” (as they’re known across the Pond.) Or, maybe you’re like my friend whose Mom found her with scissors, wisps of hair on the ground and jagged hair across her forehead. She was 5, what did she know! Now she gets nervous when someone comes at her bangs with scissors – No jagged bangs!

Nowadays you can wear them short, long, in between or swept to the side.  Let’s start with the Short bangs  (Katy) AKA “Baby” bangs look.  This is also called the Betty Page look. Before you ask your stylist to cut your bangs, you could fake it if you aren’t sure you want to make that commitment. As noted, this style of bangs is not for every face; this would not be your best look if you have a long slender face.

Med. Hold Pliable Paste

If you decide to make the cut, know that this will take a while to grow out…if you don’t like it.  Actually, it’s the same amount of time if you do like it! You will need to allow more time in the morning to get ready – this is not a wash and wear hair style, especially if you hair is not bone straight. Make sure you have these 3 items on hand: Davines Medium Hold Pliable Paste, hairspray and a mini flat iron. Or, you could try the old-fashioned way – raise your hand if your Mom went to bed with scotch tape on her bangs.

Long Bangs work well with straight hair or wavy hair. One variation covers the eyebrows (Jessica), and the other tickles your eye lashes (Zoey). This style can be worn with a center part or slightly off center. It also means you need to trim your bangs more often, just so you can see while driving, eating or walking. Can’t have them covering your eyes completely!

Side-swept Bangs are so versatile.  You can wear them to the left, to the right and even down the middle.  They can be delicate and wispy or heavy. They can sit up high (Rhianna), braided out of your eyes (Carey), or long and parted on the left (Reese) Side-swept bangs also work great if you are growing your bangs out!

One more thing, with short bangs, you can also sweep them completely off your face like they’re not even bangs.  What do you think? Is this sleek style too severe or very stylish?

Now that you’ve considered Bangs or “Fringe” variations, which style is right for you? You can always schedule an appointment with me to discuss it.  Just Book It Here.

February Fun Hair Ideas

It’s February, the time of year of chocolates, cupids and hearts.  Now you can not only find hearts full of chocolate, but heart designs for hair.  Below are some samples of how to get in the spirit!

Women are not the only ones with Hair He(art) designs.  Check out this video from Cute Girls Hairstyles on how to style your daughter’s hair this Valentine’s Day.

It’s important that your hair is in good condition so that it’s at its shiny, smooth best. This is especially true during cold dry weather. Here are 3 tips to help keep your hair smooth with anti-frizz products and techniques.

1. Deep Condition: Use a deep conditioner, at least once per week. Dry conditions lead to frizz. Massage a good conditioner into your hair and keep on for at least 10 minutes. (This is a good time to treat your face to a facial.) NaturalTech Nourishing Hair Building Pak restructures and nourishes the hair shaft; it prevents your hair from trying to take in the moisture from the surrounding air which leads to frizz.
2. Be Wise When Drying: Instead of rubbing your hair vigorously with your towel, which damages your hair shaft, squeeze the excess moisture of out your hair. And, if you use a hair blower, aim the barrel down the hair shaft. Finish with the cool air button to help lay your cuticle down.
3. Rejoice with Oi: With just 2-3 drops of OI/ Absolute Beautifying Potion, gently massaged into dry hair, from top of your head to ends of your hair, you’re ready to dry your hair. It doesn’t hurt to add a few more drops to your palms and then smooth over hair for added shine and smoothness.

If you want something special, something soft and romantic, you can always schedule an appointment with me!  Just Book It Here.

Are Your Ready for Christmas?

Ideas for Christmas Presents: Products and Gift Cards for Everyone

Well, we’re halfway through the holiday season – with Halloween and Thanksgiving in the past and looking forward to Christmas and the New Year.  Christmas is just 25 days away – eek! But you’re not worried – you have your “list” and you’re checking it twice. Plus, you’re looking for gifts that won’t be put away in a closet after the holidays because they’ll be using them every day!

We know how important good-looking hair is to us…and that having a good cut (from Donna Rolls Hair) can help us love our hair. So, when you’re thinking of what to get your friends and family, so they can love their hair too, here are some great gifts you can pick up when you get your hair cut for the holidays. Of course, you want to recommend that your friend start with a good cut, and she can Book It Here.

Davines Wellbeing De-Stressing Lotion is perfect for not only the holidays, but everyday life. It has a UV filter that protects your hair from sun exposure whether your snow skiing or working outdoors when you may not be wearing a hat for protection. Plus, there’s the added bonus of soft and silky hair and a nourished scalp.

And, you can wrap it up with some paper and a bow, or just slip it in her stocking!

If you’re looking for the gift of extraordinary hair shine and softness, give OI/ Absolute Beautifying Potion.  Potion – it sounds magical, doesn’t it? It also aids in detangling and anti-frizz.  Whether you’re living in a humid area or high desert, products with anti-frizz effect help your hair look and feel smoother.

Authentic Replenishing Butter is one of those products that are multi-purpose.  You can use it as a pre-shampooing conditioner, which will leave your hair soft, shiny, silky and easy to control. Rubbing it on your face and body will nourish your body and leave it feeling velvety smooth.

Now, if you’re looking for the best gift cards or gift certificates for presents, there are a few tips to be aware of so they won’t want to re-gift it.

• Know what they like or are interested in.
• Pick a category: food or restaurants, drink (think Starbucks), anything/everything (think Visa), clothing, home improvement, and of course, hair care.
• Don’t buy it last minute – they’ll know it. (Remember that saying…it’s the thought that counts…)

You can always purchase a gift certificate from me!

And, finally, don’t stress. Plan ahead, stick to the plan and enjoy yourself!

Keeping Your Guy Cut and Clean for the Holidays

The Holidays season has started, and I know you’ve got your beauty appointments scheduled for the next 12 weeks.  But your guy, he’s probably more spontaneous!  So, how do you keep your guy trimmed and looking clean? Well of course, make his hair appointment with Donna Rolls Hair and Book it Here!

To help him keep his style, put some Davines Medium Hold Finishing Gum. It allows him to add shape his style without adding grease to his hair. It’s just the right size for his stocking, and you’re supporting environmental charities.

But also, how about being pampered with a straight-edge shave? Doesn’t sound relaxing?  The way these guys do it is. Some places you feel like you’ve gone back in time, others not so much.  There’s no Floyd the Barber here. And, I think your guy will enjoy these choices – as long as his beard doesn’t look like any of these.

Let’s start with The Art of Shaving at Arden Mall. The Royal Shave includes a consultation so you can discuss what you’re looking for, a nice hot towel to open up your pores, and pre-shave oil. Next comes the shaving cream applied with a brush – a little goes a long way.  Close your eyes because out comes the straight razor – but, no worries, you’re in good hands! Follow it up with a facial mask that will soothe any skin irritation. And, who doesn’t de-stress with rose petals on your eyelids? They shave beards and heads – both silky smooth for longer than with a safety razor.

If you’re looking for something a little more fun or hip, check out Jimmy’s Barber Garage.  Jimmy’s is a full-service shop with local talent.  You can get a hot shave/hot towel for less than 4 Starbucks drinks, and the partial shave is even less.

Barber Blues is a place where you can not only get a hot shave with pre and post shave treatments, but they also give straight razor shaves keeping you clean-looking longer.  Stop by early and enjoy their pool table, TV, dominoes, cards, drink cooler, and music.

Wherever your guy gets his “hot” shave, you’ll enjoy his cool style and smooth face!

Winter Wedding Hair

Up Do or Down Do – What’s the Perfect Look For You?

You’re special day is coming closer and you’ve figured out everything else. You’ve booked the caterer, hall, photographer, band, and officiant.  You’ve got the dress and the shoes and the nails nailed.  But, what about your hair? Should it be up – because it’s a special occasion and you’ve never worn it that way or long and flowing – because you want to look ravishing?  Either way, it’s decision time.

Is your wedding day “do” predicated on what the weather will be like or what your hair will be like in that weather? If you’re looking for a stay-put, weather-proof hairstyle, below are some examples of elegant looks that you won’t have to worry about during YOUR BIG DAY.

Three UpDo Styles

The Wet Look Bun is easy to do, wind-proof, and gives you silky waves at the end of the evening. Dress it up with some pearl pins or your “something borrowed” broach. The Twisted Bun is both dressy and simple. The Rolled Hair look starts with hair parted won the middle (very dramatic!) and then rolled towards your head (need lots of Bobbie pins) and joined at the back. Plus, they all look great from the back!

If you’re looking for a fuller hairstyle, wearing it wavy and long is an excellent choice. (Here’s a hairdresser’s tip; don’t wash your hair the morning of; its easier to style slightly dirty hair.)

Long and Lovely Hairstyles

Almost Braided is accomplished with hair curled with a large barrel curling iron or in large rollers to get that full curly look. You can have a slightly off-center part, with two wisps of hair on each side brought back. Then start loosely gathering the curly hair so that you’re almost braiding it, being careful to not pull out the curl. Dress it up with either a spray that matches your bouquet, a glittery clasp  or a small faux flower. The Side Part Curls look starts with hair parted on the side (of course) and long soft curls. Hair can be drawn back, just at the ear with a Bobbie pin to secure it and a blingy Facinator on the side. The Half Braid/Half Curly combines a little teasing, semi-French braiding the top and curling the bottom in long loose curls. With the side clasp, you look great while saying your vows!

With all of these styles, spritz with a firm-hold hairspray, and add a little shine spray for a glossy look. Your hair will look great in your photographs!

 

 

 

 

 

Cold Weather is Just Around the Corner!

What products are you using to keep your hair moisturized and frizz-free?

Early mornings now require a sweater or light jacket to enjoy. Well, the same goes for your hair. You need a protective layer as the weather gets cooler. Cooler equals drier (hair and weather.) Who enjoys dry frizzy hair? Not me!

Lush, Ripe Avocado

If you go for natural/homemade products, here are 12 Natural Hair Moisturizers that you can make at home with ingredients in your cupboard or your refrigerator. The best part is, you can make more than one application at a time. And, what you don’t use externally (on your hair), you use internally (in your tummy.) Did you know aloe is not just for burns anymore? There are two different recipes that use aloe; another place to double your benefit – moisturizing hair and skin. I love Tip #5 for silky smooth hair; mash those frizzies!

Now, it’s not just cooler weather that dries out and damages your hair. Your hair is damaged in other ways: extensive sun exposure, use of curling irons and hair dryers, not to mention the color we apply strictly to tame the frizzies…

Davines OI

I highly recommend that you ask your hair professional which products are best for your hair. I can, however, recommend the Davines product line. All of their products are great for dry and damaged hair . Start with the shampoo and end with just a smidge of Davines OI Absolute Beautifying Potion. It helps prevent hair aging and breakage. (And, who doesn’t want their hair to make them look younger?) Worth the prices and it lasts a long time. Davines Oi makes a full line of shampoo and conditioners. (See below.)

Davines Melu

Davines Melu is another product line that repairs long or damaged hair. It repairs your split ends, hydrates your hair and hinders futures split ends. Davines Melu product line includes shampoo, conditioner, serum and shield (for protecting your hair from curling irons, flat irons and hair dryers.) (See below.)

Finally, if you’re venturing out to really cold parts, you can protect your head, and your scalp, with a beanie or other appropriate winter headgear. When you’re massaging your hair treatments into your hair, don’t forget to massage your scalp as well. If your scalp is dry and flaky, it won’t matter how shiny and smooth your hair is!

So, whether you try the home-made versions or the store-bought ones, let me know which one you preferred. Did you tweak one of the recipes or add something to the ready-to-use products?

Davines OI

Davines Melu

Are You Ready for Retro Glam Hair?

According to Wiki, “Retro” means any fashion, trends, attitudes or hairstyles of generally fifteen to twenty years prior. But, I’m not talking about the hairstyle you had in fifth grade.

Victory Rolls

I’m thinking farther back, when glamour was in style. Remember pin curls? They took a lot of work to do your whole head, but, wow, it was worth the effort!   Nowadays, we can skip the pin curl step.  On the right, our model has large victory rolls on top. All you need are 3 tools: comb, hair spray and Bobbie pins. First, divide your hair into 1 inch sections.  Curl your hair from the end toward your scalp. Pin your hair, keeping its round shape, with a flat pin through the middle of your curl.  This keeps it from crushing.

When all of your hair is rolled, spray well with hairspray. (Not the kind that will make your hair feel crunchy.)  Once it’s set, remove the pins and run your fingers through with an aim to loosen and combine.  Now, add more hairspray (I promise, you won’t use the whole can for this hairstyle!)

Part your hair on your most flattering side – you know what I’m talking about.  Start on the side with the most hair. Grab a section and pull upward with your thumb starting at your ear. Keeping the top smooth, tease underneath and spritz more spray. Finish rolling all the way down to your scalp. Smooth and shape until you’re satisfied with it. Now, start again on the other side; repeat until finished. Spritz just once more all over…see, you still have hair spray left!

Samples of Victory Rolls

Finger Waves

If you’re looking for something easier, grab some of the clips like your hairdresser uses. With clean, slightly damp hair parted on the side, put the first clip up on your forehead to keep it out of your face. Add the next one with a slight curve of your hair. The third one will point the opposite way, pushing hair forward (see photo.) The fourth and fifth will pull hair back. Let dry, remove clips and spray in place. You’re ready for a night on the town!

Demi Moore and Michelle Williams

If you’re looking for a shorter, faster style, look no further than the bob. The wedge bob was first made famous by Vidal Sassoon.  He wanted something that did not require lacquer to look shiny, and would be low maintenance.  Vidal was all about angles and geometric shapes. The photo on the right shows two different ways to wear it – full bangs or swept to the side. This cut requires more frequent trimming, but it is low maintenance, wash and go hair the rest of the time. This is the best cut to show off your favorite earrings!

Whether your hair is long or short, start practicing with it now so you’re ready for those holiday parties!

How Do You Keep Your Short Hair Looking Great?

So, you’ve made the decision to wear your hair short. It’s freshly cut and styled, and you want to keep it looking salon-perfect from here on out.  But, how do you do that? It looked so easy when they did it!

Here are some tips on styles and products:

1.  Bob haircuts can be both very feminine and tomboyish. Do you go for the long bang,

Long Bangs, Asymetrical cut picture

Emma Watson’s pixie

windswept look that can be stick straight or tousled?  Or, the very short, pixie-like look of Emma Watson’s style? With a Bob, you can work in some texturizer like Hyrating Argan Oil Hair Mask by Arvazallia and scrunch with your fingers for a height and some body. Or, you can use a heat protecting hair care cream, mousse or spray before using a flat iron to tamp down that flyaway hair.

2.  Curls can be “well-defined and frizz-free with non-greasy Ouidad’s Curl Quencher Hydrafusion Intense Curl Cream. Using both hands, distribute a small amount thorough damp hair and style using a diffuser (see Tip #3 in my last Blog post.)  You’ll get a strong hold with soft bouncy curls.  And, it gets high marks for not drying your hair out!

3.  Chin length, or even a little longer, you can add a side braid that will pull the hair off your forehead and give you some height (Again with the height, you say!  Do I have a complex? No! Adding height to your hair lengthens your face and makes it appear narrower. Just sayin’.)  First, spritz your hair with a little hairspray to help it set a little.  Then just part your hair over the middle of your eyebrow and start braiding. Use some more hairspray once you’re finished.  This is a great “do” on a windy day.

Head Wrap

4.  And, that’s a Wrap!  I mean, use a wrap, or a silk scarf.  Once you’ve got your bangs just so and the rest of your hair gathered high, grab your square scarf. Fold corner to corner so you have a triangle. Fold the tip in about 2 inches, and then fold it another two inches. Wrap (See, you knew I’d “tie” it in there) the scarf around your head with the folds on the inside. Tie it in a knot, then again, and tuck the ends into the scarf. Voila!

I hope these tips have helped you love your short hair even more. Share some of your tips with me!

Curly Hair? 5 Tips to Solve the tame down without losing the volume

With curly hair, you have the best of both worlds – you can straighten it or leave it curly.  So, how do you tame it without flattening it?

1. If you shampoo your hair every day, you are drying out your hair.  That tends to add frizz.  Have a plan. Wash your hair every other day (or even once or twice per week) and condition the other times you wet it.
2. Don’t just put conditioner on your hair, comb it through. And, your mother was wrong – don’t start at the top of your head. Ouch! Start at the bottom and work your way up! Leave conditioner in for required amount of time and then rinse out with cool water.
3. Use but diffuse. If you’re going to use a hair dryer, use a diffuser. This will help you keep your style without adding frizz to it.  But first apply a gel or mousse for use with heat-styled hair.
4. Hair products can either flatten your hair or add volume. Decide which of these works better for your hair – mousse or gel. Try using a leave-in conditioner to reduce the damage to your hair; pick one for either dry hair or damp toweled-dry hair.
5. Let’s talk haircuts. Curly hair works well when it’s layered; one length tends to drag down your hair because of the weight. Having layers allows your curly hair to be bouncy and full of life!