Ask a Stylist: Perming basics
By Marlena Isbell + March 20th, 2012
Q. How long should your hair be before getting a perm/body wave? I am looking to get tight curls and my hair is about 3-4 inches long. Terri Durdle; St. John’s, NL A. There are a couple of factors to consider before having a perm service. First, how would you like to style your new [...]
By Marlena Isbell + January 27th, 2012
Q. If I curl my hair and spray it with hairspray, it falls within two hours. How do I get it to stay styled for longer? Andrea Scruggs, Mabelvale, AR A. For longer lasting coils try using a product specifically designed for heat-setting curls. Redken Spray Starch 15 Heat Memory Styler is heat-activated and forms [...]
By Jen Laing + November 14th, 2011
Q. What’s the best way to trim my own bangs? Kate Graff; Seal Beach, CA A. Two major rules of thumb: Take caution and, remember, less is more. Start by using small scissors, like the ones you find in a manicure kit. Next, style your bangs like you would normally wear them and section them [...]
By Marlena Isbell + November 7th, 2011
Q. How can I style my hair on busy mornings without looking like I skipped that step in my routine? Emily Johnson; Bowling Green, KY A. A great way to fake a style is a low ponytail or bun. Sprinkle a little volumizing powder, like Big Sexy Powder Play Volumizing and Texturizing Powder, into your [...]
By Marlena Isbell + October 21st, 2011
Q. How do you work with a cowlick or widow’s peak right in the center of the hairline on your forehead? It’s really hard to get my hair to style right since the cowlick always causes my hair to pop up. Karen Bignell; Athens, GA A. When it comes to cowlicks, the old saying “If [...]
By Marlena Isbell + August 15th, 2011
Q. What’s a good hairspray with a strong hold and a nice fragrance? Shannon Westerlund; Aitkin, MN A. One of my ultimate faves is Redken Forceful 23 Super Strength Finishing Spray. It delivers all day hold and humidity resistance. Another major plus: No sticky residue. And, its new fragrance won’t leave you (or others around [...]
By Marlena Isbell + May 23rd, 2011
Q. How do I know if I can wear bangs? Mary Helser; Sarona, WI A. Virtually everyone can wear bangs, but the shape of your face will dictate what style of fringe (flirty side wisps, a strong statement bang, etc.) is right for you. If you have a long face or a prominent forehead (think [...]
By Marlena Isbell + February 10th, 2011
Q. Is it possible for people with really thin hair to have hair extensions that will not show through the natural hair? Kadie Parks; Goldsboro, NC A. There is hope! Here’s the skinny on extensions: Bonded extensions, like SoCap USA keratin bonds, last the longest (3-6 months), but the key to achieving natural looking results [...]
By Marlena Isbell + February 7th, 2011
Q. What haircut makes a face look thinner? Marlene Ramirez; Russellville, AL A. The first thing to consider when choosing your most flattering haircut is the length. If you have a strong or round jaw, you’ll want to pick a length that falls below your chin for an elongated effect. Instead of layers that frame [...]
By Marlena Isbell + December 9th, 2010
Q. As I’ve gotten older (I am 51) my hair just doesn’t seem to act like it did when I was younger. I have thick hair with a light wave to it and a smattering of gray that I use semi-permanent color on sometimes at home. Is there a version of the bob that would [...]