Some Notes on Wedding Hair

On May 26, 2016 By Christine RinehartIn beauty, hair, lifestyle, weddingLeave a comment

So it’s wedding season once again!

Don’t let wedding stress happen to you!

For hairstylists and brides alike this can be a stressful time so I’ve put together a list of things that can make all those hair interactions a little less crazed.

~8-12 weeks before the wedding: find a stylist and book the wedding date, your trial, possibly 2 trials, and map out color appointments and trims.

~4-6 weeks before the wedding: have your trial (with tiara, pins, veil, etc) and take final reference photos, make sure you have confirmed timing and number of people for services on day of.

~2-3 weeks before the wedding: do your color (if you normally color your hair) so that it has a little room to settle before the wedding, do your last trim before the wedding. Do NOT experiment with new color or cut this close to the wedding!

A few other notes:

-you want to look like yourself in photos, if you normally wear your hair a certain way use it as inspiration for your wedding hair, if you never wear it up in even a ponytail then maybe you don’t really want it all up for your wedding

-your hairstylist is likely to make more money at the salon than at your wedding so unless you’ve got the world’s biggest bridal party please bear in mind they are missing an entire 8 hour day to do 3 hours with you, often plus travel expenses, we love what we do, but please don’t assume tip is included in your total unless specifically stated

-typically it’s best for the bride to get her hair done second to last, you want to spend the morning “relaxing” as much as possible so make everyone else go first

-EXCEPT mother of the bride should be last, or in some cases the soon to be mother in law, these are people you want available to help run errands and be bullies to get things fixed, if they’re in a chair or already have their hair done they won’t be able to run around as much

Facial Scrubs for Body Scrubs

On March 28, 2016 By Christine RinehartIn beauty, lifestyle, skin careLeave a comment

While I was at the New York International Beauty Show (#IBSNY2016 if you want to search the Instagram tags), I made several interesting purchases, along with things from my Sephora haul last month.

I’ve already got combination skin so I know that heavily moisturizing facial scrubs tend to trigger acne for me. Since I still wanted to try stuff out I decided I’d use them as body scrubs instead. This is actually one of my favorite uses when I buy or receive products that aren’t quite a perfect fit for me.

First up was Rebels Refinery Advanced Clear Skin Facial Scrub which was absolutely awesome and comes from a very cool company with the most amazing smelling Moisturizing Beard Oil that I’ve ever smelled. This scrub had a really nice gritty texture and made me feel super clean, but it’s definitely designed for men’s skin and to pair with a lighter moisturizer than what I use (and probably not use make-up with either). I did notice that my skin was super smooth, and when used as a body scrub all over I had no ingrown hair issues, razor burn, or even a need to use body lotion. For someone with dryer skin, or as a body scrub I rate this as one of the best I’ve used, but for my face it’s a waste.

Second I tried my luck with Ole Henriksen Walnut Complexion Scrub which had similar issues. Absolutely wonderful as a combination body scrub body wash but not really working for my face. Great texture, and decent lather when mixed with water, nice smell.

Hopefully the next set of things I get my hands on prove to be a better fit for my skin type as we approach warmer weather again. Get stoked!

Got any recommendations you think I should check out? Leave them in the comments section and I’ll be sure to take a look.

Not Always a Win

On March 16, 2016 By Christine RinehartIn beauty, lifestyle, skin careLeave a comment

Not everything I buy to try is a product I’m destined to love forever.

Screen Shot 2016-03-15 at 9.43.06 PM

Recently, in my Sephora haul, I purchased Glam Glow Super Mud to try. My good friend and former assistant, Vanessa who works at the Springfield Town Center Sephora location, assured me I would love it. While I acknowledge it is a beauty junkie favorite, and it did great things for my skin, I just can’t get past the scent.

It contains several herbal extracts, like licorice, which give it a distinct smell that ends up being extremely reminiscent of Jagermeister. I just can’t handle it.

This is a bit of a loss because my skin does feel incredibly refreshed and clean. The goal of using it tonight was to make up for three days of chain-smoking in my car traveling to teach hair extension classes out of town. It worked amazingly so I’m disappointed a bit, but I’m planning on gifting it to a current staff member who really enjoys Jager.

Cold Weather Hair Tips

On January 6, 2014 By Christine RinehartIn beauty, hairLeave a comment

The weather changes with each season, why would you expect the same routine to work year round? You may need to add, remove, or completely change the products and tools you use. Here’s some points to get you started:

Use More Leave-Ins

The weather is harsh and the cold can be detrimental by hiding how humid or dry the air is. Trust me, you need the extra love, especially if you’re blowdrying more often to avoid leaving with wet hair.

Use Softer Hold Products

Gels and mouses that hold firmly will dry feeling too stiff in cold weather, so go for a lighter hold when choosing products for fall and winter months. You can always tease or add a finishing spray.

Be Wary of Protein Heavy Products

Yes, usually it’s thought of as a good thing, but it may not be necessary to add extra proteins to the hair. Normally a product that is protein rich will protect damaged hair, but if there is no damage they can build-up and may make hair dull and brittle. Avoid these unless your hair is actually damaged. Cold weather is not forgiving to brittle hair.

Use More Conditioner

Get into the routine of using extra conditioner to counteract damaging cold weather. Simple. Use more, rinse thoroughly.

Seal With Oil or Silicone

Jojoba and almond oils will add shine, and coconut oil and shea butter are perfect for coarser hair types. Silicone also works well as a moisture barrier to keep your hair soft.

Notes On Hair Loss and Shedding

On July 22, 2013February 11, 2018 By Christine RinehartIn hair, lifestyle5 Comments

Clients come in for hair extensions for all sorts of reasons, but one of the most common requests for hair extensions is as a result of recently increased shedding of the clients own hair and the desire to immediately thicken it back up. The following is a quick list of some common temporary hair loss triggers and whether or not they tend to be compatible with the addition of hair extensions.

~~ Certain prescription medicines can increase hair loss and susceptibility to shedding. These include, but are by no means limited to: blood thinners, vitamin A supplements, some arthritis medications, antidepressants, gout medications, medications for certain heart problems, blood pressure medications, and birth control pills. If a medication is causing your hair loss, your doctor may be able to prescribe an alternative medication.

— For hair extensions it is important to know if the medicine causes the loss is a temporary medication or not, so that extensions are not attached while the hair is still shedding. It’s prohibitively expensive to purchase a hair extension service, have them continue to fall out, and have to keep replacing them. If you’re only on it for a little while, wait until you’re off it. If it is a long term medication and it cannot be switched to anything else, wait until you’ve reached a kind of equilibrium level, and pay close attention to maintenance schedules with your hair extension specialist to prevent weakening already sensitive hair.

~~ If you had major surgery and experienced excessive hair loss anywhere from one week to about three months later (depending upon metabolism), the anesthesia combined with the surgery itself may be to blame for your hair falling out. General anesthesia and major surgery are some intense physical stress, which can mess with the growing phases of the hairs on your head, and cause excessive hair shedding that shows up later. Hair loss related to major surgery, however, is temporary, and your hair will grow back over time.

— For hair extensions with this type of loss, all you have to do is wait it out, usually the shedding takes place all in about a two week span, so go in for a consultation as soon as you notice so the hair extension specialist can have everything prepped for you when your hair reaches balance. Usually by the time your set grows out your real hair is thickened up enough to not require extensions. (Of course, you may get used to the look and ease of your new chosen hair.)

— I actually recently experienced this type of hair loss after having my tonsils out. Unfortunately I had gotten my hair extensions put in about a month prior to my unexpected surgery and I shed quite a bit of my hair extensions since they were attached to my real hair. If you are a current hair extensions wearer and have an upcoming surgery, try to plan your maintenance and replacement visits around your surgery to accommodate a waiting period after surgery before replacing extensions.

~~ Diet and exercise! When you dramatically reduce calorie intake, or increase calorie usage via exercise you might not be getting all the vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that your body needs. This can cause your hair to fall out. Since hair is made of keratin protein, not enough protein in your diet can be detrimental to your hair after only about two to three months of a protein-deficient diet. Very strict weight-loss diets or exercise plans can also cause noticeable hair loss, which commonly occurs about three months after losing 15 pounds or more of body weight.

— When looking to get hair extensions related to this type of hair loss and shedding I typically recommend wearing a clip-in option until the client has reached their goal weight. Otherwise they are just paying for hair that they are going to keep shedding. One they’ve reached their goal weight, or adjusted to a less strict regimen for maintenance, any type of hair extension becomes an option. Over time all their shed hair should come back if they stay balanced so the hair extensions should not need to be a permanent option unless the client maintains fitness competition levels of body fat.

Current Obsession: Hippie Hair

On April 24, 2013 By Christine RinehartIn beauty, hair, lifestyleLeave a comment

Big, beautiful, beachy hair is what I’m into right now.

I’m loving this mid-tone look, it’s got a slight ombre feel to it, and the head band really accentuates the texture.

To get a look like this I recommend braiding your hair overnight if your hair isn’t already textured. Once it’s fully dried you can finger comb through it to rough it up. To get a really messy feeling you can even run a spray wax or salt spray through it as well.

If your hair isn’t long enough for this then hair extensions may be a great option for you. If you’re considering wearing a look like this only occasionally then clip-in hair extensions would be a wonderful option. If you’re like me though, and want to do as little work as possible each morning, then something more long term might work better. Fusion hair extensions or tape-in hair extensions have more staying power and allow you to sleep with your long hair in. This means waking up ready to go.

If you’re going to be rocking a hairstyle like this then i suggest leaving your make-up more minimal. Big hair shouldn’t be competing with bright lipstick, or overly dramatic eyes. Balance is the key to looking like a fashion plate and not like an overzealous clown.

Is Eye Shadow Primer Worth It?

On April 6, 2013 By Christine RinehartIn beautyLeave a comment

The short answer? Yes, it is!

The long answer? Definitely yes. Primer allows colored eyeshadows to really pop without having to layer on (read: waste) tons of product. It usually goes on smoother and stays on better as a result. End result? Totally worth it.

If you want you insanely too bright, covers way too much to be reasonable, really red eye shadow to stay bright over an extended photo shoot then you definitely need primer. (I’m allowed to say this is crazy, it’s my own work.)

Primer prevents darkness under eyes or on eyelids from interfering with the pigment of the eye shadow. This can be enough of a benefit on it’s own, but it gets better. Some companies are starting to work on eye shadow primers with ingredients that work like eye creams and actually make your skin healthier. Fantastic! Minimizes my routine and I love it.

Talking Points With Your Stylist: Fusion Hair Extensions

On March 12, 2013 By Christine RinehartIn beauty, hairLeave a comment

Are fusion hair extensions the right choice for you?

Fusion hair extensions use heat-bonded protein to fuse small sections of hair extensions to your existing hair. The result is seamless blending of extensions into your current hair.

Fusion extensions are great for both thick and fine hair, adding just color, thickening, lengthening, and chemical-free highlights.

Fusions extensions aren’t encouraged for heavily processed hair, very short hair, or un-relaxed ethnic hair.

There are a lot of different companies out there, so stylists have a lot to choose from to ensure a good texture match.

Taking Care of Your Hair Extensions

On February 11, 2013February 11, 2018 By Christine RinehartIn beauty, hairLeave a comment

Cleansing/Conditioning

Brush your hair with a detangling brush. Use the shampoo recommended by your stylist. Gently, from the scalp to the ends, massage the shampoo in a downward motion and repeat if necessary. Only use sulfate free conditioner and apply from mid length to ends.

Styling/Drying

Always dry your hair using a low to moderate heat setting on your hair dryer. Style as desired using the recommended hair products from your stylist. Remember to keep all heated styling tools away from the bonds. When using blow dryers, flat irons or curling irons, use the appropriate protective serum to protect against thermal damage and add control and shine.

Sleeping

Never sleep when your hair is still wet. Gently gather your hair on top of your head with a scrunchie. A loose braid will also help prevent tangling and matting at night.

Swimming

Before swimming, mist hair with a leave in conditioner or apply a shine serum from the ends of your hair to mid-length. Do not apply directly to the scalp. Loosely braid your hair since chemicals and salt water may compromise the integrity of the bonds. Follow the advise of your stylist for post-swimming hair care.

Removal

Do not remove your hair extensions by yourself! You might damage your real hair. Your extensions stylist is trained in the steps to properly remove your hair as to best preserve the best condition of your natural hair, and not impede the next extension process.

Seasonal Style Rules

On February 5, 2013 By Christine RinehartIn beauty, hair, lifestyle1 Comment

Often as seasons change, my clients ask me what’s trending in with the new weather pattern. While there’s always a fair amount of unexpected fashion, there are also a lot of style rules that don’t really change. Hope these help you stay on point.

Spring.

-Makeup returns to peach tones and colorful pastels, think “playful” and “innocent.”

-Clothing is shorter, of course, as few items as possible, kind of the anti-layering, usually lace or other “open” fabrics.

-Hair gets lighter though don’t go too light too quickly, but more natural sun-kissed, typically on the ash/beige end of the color spectrum.

Summer.

-Makeup is typically dewy with soft, brown-rimmed eyes, not black, and nothing too deep for lip colors. Sometimes bright eyeshadows for extreme color trend, but that can be hit or miss.

-Let’s address the clothing trends: Denim! It’s always denim. I don’t know why, it’s a terrible fabric, but summer brings is denim skirts, shorts, vests, oh gosh, everything!

-Hair this season views lots of blondes, golds, caramels for darker hair with beachy, worn-in scrunchy wavy softness.

Autumn.

-Lots of natural soft looks with makeup, sometimes just a bit of color to keep it interesting. Since it’s just starting to get cooler people seem to start cutting down their beauty routine. Possibly to spend a few extra minutes in a warm bed each morning?

-Autumnal clothing is pretty well understood by most already. Unlike spring, despite similar temperature ranges, there is almost an obsession with layering as though you aren’t dressed without three outfits at the same time. Also wear lots of brown, since Autumn is the season to celebrate brown everything.

-Personally it’s my favorite hair season because I love all the gold, red and copper. Emulate the local foliage as much as you reasonably can.

Winter.

-Makeup settles in with bold, jewel tones with a soft neutral lip, or goes the other direction with a Snow White look and red lips.

-Clothing gets puffy. As the temperature decreases, the level of mass required by clothing increases exponentially. 40=jacket. 30=puffy jacket. 20=strap on a polar bear and hide it with an even puffier jacket.

-Hair trends darker, more intense, and often straighter, my guess is that since this is the coldest season it’s the only one where the hair is chosen based on ease. If you cannot leave with wet hair, straight is usually the fastest.