Regular Care Of Hair. Some Pieces of Useful Advices.

Taking hair care is in fact much the same as taking skin care. An effective hair care discipline involves cleansing, toning and conditioning routines carried out with religious regularity.

1.Care Of Oily Hair And Scalp Condition:
The principle of care for oily hair and scalp condition is the same as used for oily skin condition. The routine aims at removing the excess oil and to exfoliate skin cells which clogs up and suffocate the hair follicles in our scalp. The emphasis is laid on cleansing and toning routines. Since the hair has to be washed as frequently as it gets dirty and oily, a natural shampoo on a formulation of herbs such as amla, shikakai, trijla is ideal. Massaging hair and scalp is important for the well being as well as good growth of the hair. For dry hair, scalp massaging with oil is recommended. For oily hair massaging with toning lotion is suitable.

Home-made Cosmetics For Oily Hair:
A.Take some dry soap nuts(reetha) and soak them in water overnight. Mash them in the morning and strain the soapy solution. Add a tsp of shikakai powder and wash your hair.If you are unable to make the shampoo cleanser at home, use this infusion recipe.Prepare it and mix in the shampoo you use.
B.To make the infusion, boil two handful of mint leaves in one and a half glass of water for 20 minutes. Strain the solution and mix in a 300ml bottle of shampoo.

Toning Lotion For Oily Hair:
Mix a tbsp of Malt Vinegar in a glass of water.Add a pinch of salt in it.Use 2 tbsps of it on your scalp and massage it with your finger tips twice a week.Leave the lotion on for one hour.Rinse with cool water, brush and set your hair.

2.Care For Dry Hair:
Dry hair tends to be thin and rough.It is susceptible to tangles, damage, breakage and split ends.The primary aim is to replenish the oil and the moisture in the hair.

Home-made Cosmetic Care For Dry Hair:
Below are given few natural recipes that are time-tested.

The Gentle Cleanser:
Beat an egg in a cup of the skimmed milk.When the foam becomes consistent, rub it into the scalp. Leave it on for 5 minutes.Rinse the hair thoroughly with water. Carry out this routine twice a week.

The Protein Conditioner:
Beat one tbsp of castor oil, one tbsp of glycerine, one tbsp of cider vinegar and a tsp of mild herbal shampoo.Apply it on scalp and leave it on for 20 minutes.Rinse with clear water.

A Special Massage Oil Toner
Buy a bottle of castor oil or coconut oil. Add a tsp of lavender essential oil in it.Heat a little and massage it gently on your scalp at night. Rinse or shampoo it out in the morning. Follow this routine at least twice a week.

Intimate Hair-do

To shave or not to shave the genitals?

Actually, this question is not so important as many people think. If you cannot decide whether you should get rid of hair on your genitals simply ask your partner's opinion. Tastes as well as sexual preferences differ. Different people love different sex positions, different sex toys, different activities. The same is about genital's appearance. To shave or not to shave? Your partner will answer this question.
Have you find out that your partner does not want to see any hair on the area under your pants? Than shave it off, but do that properly in order to avoid injuries and unpleasant sensations.
Generally speaking intimate women's shaving does not differ much from men's one. The only difference is that men should be more careful as they are more likely to injure tender and vulnerable genital skin. Let us begin with ladies.

Intimate Women's Shaving
Step 1
Put the razor away. You do not need right now. First of all you must cut the hair with help of usual sharp scissors. Cut as much hair as you can. This must necessarily be done, otherwise your shaving will turn into a real torture. You don't want to shave for hours and suffer from pain, do you? Than first cut the hair with scissors!
Step 2
After you have cut off long hair ends, get ready for shaving. This must be done in order to soften the skin and avoid possible irritation. There are a few ways to achieve the necessary effect. The best one is to take a warm bath, because warm water perfectly steams out and softens skin and hair. Another way is to take warm shower giving a special attention to the area you are going to shave. After the bath or the shower properly rub yourself down with a towel and wait for a while to let your body dry.
Step 3
Put on your genitals a considerable amount of shaving cream. Keep in mind that man's shaving cream is not suitable for this purpose. If you did not manage to find a special woman's cream (however, this is very doubtful, because there are lots of special intimate shaving creams for different types of skin), than take the softest men's cream, but make sure it is non-perfumed! Never use soap for intimate shaving! Shave your genitals slowly and gently in the direction the hair grows. Perhaps you will need more than one shaving to make your skin completely smooth. Do not hurry and do not make too rough motions.
Step 4
Make sure you have shaven off everything you wanted and thoroughly wash your genitals with warm water in order to remove shaving cream and hairs.
Step 5
Now you have to care for your skin. Soft baby oil can work wonders! It will keep your skin smooth, tender and will prevent it from pimples.

If you have a sensitive skin, than a cream with aloe vera and vitamin E will suit you best. Indulge your pubis and inner part of lips with cream or oil after each shaving.Attention: if you are going to have sex after shaving and plan to use a condom, than wash away oil or cream before making love. The fact it that oil affects latex and thus diminishes its protective properties. By the way, for the same reason you mustn't use any oils or oil containing lubricant for the same reason.

To Perm, Or Not To Perm: A Very Important Question!

More on perming: There are many types of perming techniques involving basically all the same types of strong chemicals. There are Alkaline perms which is a strong formulation using ammominium thioglycolate which is by far the strongest, longest lasting and the smelliest. They are the best formulation for very uneasy-to-curl hair or for creating a very tightly curled do. There are acid-balanced perms which contain a far gentler chemical called glyceryl monothioglycate. It has a lower pH and is good for fine, thin hair or hair that has been previously processed. It is also your best option for a natural, softer curling effect. These must be left on longer or processed with the help of heat sources, like those over-the-head driers you see at salons.

The techniques vary as well...

• Traditional Perm: This technique involves waving or curling the entire head of hair. Rods are usually placed horizontally but there are many configurations that can be done to obtain certain looks or for certain hairstyles or if you have a severe cowlick. This also depends upon curl (rod) size.
• Body Wave Perm: This involves larger diameter rods to create a softer wave instead of a tighter curl. It is a more natural look rather than the curlier types.
• Reverse Perm: This is a form of straightening naturally tight curls to a more relaxed wavy shape. Instead of a head full of tightly wound curls with this technique you receive softer larger curls.
• Spiral Perm: The hair is rolled vertically rather than horizontally resulting in ringlets or corkscrew-like curls. A lot of women with straight long hair get spiral perms.
• Root Perm: I don't believe in these if roots are permed only for volume or lift. They grow out terribly, but if it is for maintenance of a perm, that is normal. The rods are placed only at the root area to curl or give lift to that area only.
• Spot Perm: The rods are placed in certain areas only that need or body or a slight curl to better a style or make it more manageable.

To Perm, Or Not To Perm: A Very Important Question!

Most of us have had the memory of a bad perm. It is the equivalent of a mental scar, and a deep one at that. Do you have any idea how long it takes for one of these to grow out? I was scarred emotionall for many years (OK I am exaggerating) 'cause of a bad perm and 6th grade is not the time to get experimented on by your beautician great aunt. Yes, I said beautician. Egad! Here are some tips with which to educate the masses before they go down the same road I did. Also included: tips on straightening (relaxing).

• WARNING! Don't do this yourself, period. I mean it! If you do you run the risk of losing hair, damaging your hairshaft irreversibly and otherwise suffering for months to come. Go to a professional technician, some stylists still can't pull this off.
• Perming and Haircolor: Choose to Perm or Straighten the hair BEFORE you color! Besides, most stylists refuse to color (especially bleach) after a client has a perm. It simply damages an already damaged cuticle more so. Semi-permanent coloring is suggested.
• Perming by Definition: Your hair is tightly wound (depending on the desired result) around curlers of various sizes. A harsh chemical is applied to the hair to "pen the shaft (or to rough it up) and break down the rods in your hairshaft. Then a second chemical is poured on that actually closes the rods or makes the hair retain whatever shape it is in (the curlers). It is kept in for a bit to process and then rinsed out. They carefully unwind the curlers from your hair and you don't get to wash it for days. It is best to wait for as long as you can without getting it wet. Plus even though the formulas have been improved, it still stinks! Straightening works the same way but minus the curlers. They comb your hair straight and if it starts kinking up again they comb it some more, forcing the hairshaft to straighten in addition to the weight of the water and chemicals.
• Pre-Perm: Treat your hair to a few Clarifying shampoos beforehand (especially if you use a lot of products) to strip the hair of its greasy and sticky build up from products and hard water (mineral deposits) can prevent the perm chemicals from penetrating evenly.
• Haircut/Perm: Cut AFTER you perm. That way the style and cut will be designed with the new texture and shape (curl) of the hair. However, if you are going to go dramatically shorter then the stylist should cut your hair a little longer than the desired end result and then process, cutting after the perm is complete.
• Risks: First and foremost, these are chemicals. They can burn and irritate the scalp. Do not subject your scalp to chemicals if it is scratched, sunburned or whatever. Also, your scalp (if you're a woman) is more sensitive right before your period and it can absolutely drive you nuts to have chemicals on you scalp. You will be climbing the walls, itching your head with the point of a pick or comb. you run the risk of losing clumps of hair, especially if your hair is chemically processed prior to getting a perm. You can loose hair if the solution is left on to long as well.
• Processing Time: Beware of the stylist who does not use a timer for perms or forgets how long you have the chemicals in. Ask what time and how long it will be processing for and keep track yourself. Don't hesitate to alert the stylist when your time's up.
• Re-dos: How I wish this didn't happen. There are quite a few times that a perm or coloring does not take place. If your perm does not live up to your standards you should really wait a while before getting a new one (a re-do). You could REALLY damage your hair. It simply isn't worth it.
• Perm After-care: Take care of your hair. It is bad enough you cannot wash your hair until a few days afterward, the longer the better. Use a gentle shampoo, a stronger conditioner and protect your hair chlorine, the sun and excessive heat from curling irons and blow-dryers.

below: Scarlett Johansson & Beyonce Knowles

Wedding Hair-Dos.

Bridal Hair Style and Hair Dos

In and about the other preparations for your wedding day, it may be tough to choose the perfect wedding "do," but a little careful planning will go a long way toward making sure your hair is beautiful on your happy day. When selecting a wedding hairstyle, some brides go for a dramatic, impressive up-do. Others choose to let their hair fall enhancing, naturally their style with subtle curls and waves. Whichever option suits you best, the tips and steps outlined below will help to make your hair shiny, strong, and lovely on the day of your wedding.


General Wedding Hair Opinion

Think about the season and climate in which your wedding will be taking place. Will the ceremony be indoors or outdoors? If your wedding is scheduled for a hot, humid time of year, think about an up-styled hairdo to help ward off frizz or limp locks.


Start Wedding Haircare Beforehand

Depending upon the length of your hair, you should begin to think about your hairstyle three to six months in advance of your wedding. Are you thinking about dyeing your hair or getting a perm? Now's the time to experiment. The last thing you should want is to try a brand new color the week before your wedding and have it not work out, leaving you stuck with a shade of blond normally reserved for lemon sherbet. As you begin to consider your wedding day 'do, also think about your wedding dress and the style of veil you'll be wearing. A formal gown might pair well with an up-style, whereas a more casual dress may compliment a loose and flowing hairstyle. Think about your gown's neckline, as well, as this may help to determine which hairstyle will be right for the day of your marriage. During this time period, follow your normal hair care schedule, keeping your tresses healthy and clean.

Wedding Hair Pre-Run

If you're having a stylist do your hair for your wedding day, be sure to schedule a "pre-run" about a month in advance of your marriage. If you know exactly what kind of approach you'd like to take, try to bring pictures from magazines as a reference for your hairstylist. Keep time in mind, as well - your run-through should not take more than an hour and a half, as you probably won't have more than this amount of time to set aside for hair on the day of your wedding. If you've picked one out, have your hairstylist practice with your veil or tiara. If you'll be doing your own styling, gather all the stuff and tools you'll need in a basket for easy storage, and try your hairstyle out! Use a well-lit room, preferably with a large vanity mirror. If you're going for an up-do, consider using hot curlers or rollers, just like Grandma did. Lightly blow dry your hair with the curlers still in. After you remove them, spritz with a bit of hairspray - just enough for your curls to hold their shape. Then, twist your hair up in your favorite style! The curls that rollers create will lend class and beauty to almost any up-do. And, remember that messy is in - it's ok if your wedding hair do isn't classically austere, as long as you think it's beautiful and you love the way it looks.

Wedding Hair Coloring and Trim

Schedule a hair appointment for about two weeks prior to your wedding day for a final trim and color touch up, if appropriate. About this time, you may also want to begin an intensive conditioning regimen, such that your hair will be healthy and full of shine on your wedding day.

Don't over-dry your hair the week before your wedding! Wash your hair every other day, and make sparing use of the blow dryer. If you've got some split ends, use a leave in conditioner on the days you wash your hair. If you're having your nails done, consider scheduling this appointment for the day before your wedding to save time.

Your Wedding Day

Unless you're sure of your product, do not use conditioner the day of your wedding, as it will make your hair limp when it should be full-bodied. If you're doing your own hair, think about where you'll be doing it if it's not in the place that you practiced, will there be sufficient lighting, mirrors, and power outlets for all your tools and accessories? Consider adding a power strip and extension cord to your hair care basket, just in case. If you are working with a stylist, be sure he or she has accurate directions to wherever they will be doing your hair. If a team of hairstylists is working with your bridal party, be sure you clearly communicate exactly how many people's hair they will be doing and how much time they'll have to do the 'dos. Rather than assuming that a stylist will be able to fit one extra person in, check with them beforehand - they may be able to show up a half-hour earlier, saving everyone from a hectic race to beat the clock. Whether you are going for an up-do or a down-do, doing it yourself or working with a hairstylist, planning in advance will help to make sure your wedding hair looks as it should - absolutely you and absolutely beautiful.

Having Your Hair Cut: It really isn't a nightmare!

I know most of you don't want your hair cut. But you HAVE to. Honestly, it took me many years to learn that you need a trim regularly to keep the breakage from traveling up the hair shaft. Especially if you have fine hair, prone to breakage. It just has to be done, period. Besides, damaged long hair looks downright nasty!

• Above-the-Shoulder Cuts: This is best for just about every woman of every age group, but is especially beneficial to woman who have fine, limp hair. Add layers around the face to create the illusion of more body.
• Bangs: This is a good haircut for those of you that may have a high or large forehead. It is especially beneficial to those of you that have have a long face and want long hair as well. It balances out the look.
• Long Hair: This is great if you have a heart shaped face or a round face. Make sure you get regular trims to keep breakage at bay! You should go no longer than 3 months without a trim!
• Cutting Your Long Hair Short: Tell your stylist to cut off half the length you wish to cut, ease into it. It is easier to cut off a little more than to grow a lot out. You may just shock yourself into a depression!
• Curly Hair: If your hair is long and thick - great! If it isn't - your hair is going to look straggly. Fine, limp curls should be kept above the shoulder to minimize the appearance of well - fine, limp locks!It just isn't flattering. And if you have limp or fine hair, don't over layer your hair, it does not give your style body, it looks unkempt. A few around the face with a few highlights, or lowlights will benefit you.
• Short to Long: Oh how glacial this process is! And you just hate to trim the ends to add to the fullness. But you must. Your hair needs to be trimmed to stop the damaged ends in its tracks. I know it may look short at first, but it will grow, I promise. Your hair will look fuller in the end.
• WARNING! Apply to an experienced stylist, and one who is open to YOUR desires. No matter what you and I think, A bad haircut does not justify homicide. Even if it is in the heat of passion -- with his or her own scissors! Know before you go. Also, you get what you pay for! And for goodness' sake, don't upset your stylist!

Some more details of hair care.

Shampoo

Everyone is aware of it and everyone uses it: hair shampoo. But what is their effect and from what are they made?

A hair shampoo usually consists of water, sodium laureth, sulfate, polyquaternium-10, coloring substances and aromatic compounds.

To have healthy hair, a person does not need more than a mild and careful cleaning. Of course, using mild shampoos carefully does not mean that a person does not need to daily wash his or hair. For the appropriate care of hair, the usage of shampoo must complement the type of hair.
Not every product is suitable for every kind of hair.

A good shampoo would not harm the skin, nor would it burn the eyes. Rather, it would degrease the hair, it would lend abundance and shine to the hair's surface and, most importantly, it would clean the hair. Since many people produce too much testosterone (a male hormone), which causes greasy hair, most people need to clean their hair regularly.

Water

The type water that people use also plays an important factor in the health of their hair. Sea water and water containing chlorine (such as the kind that will get into hair after a person goes for a swim) should immediately be washed out by clean water because water has a long-term hold in hair.

Drying

Another aspect of healthy hair is drying. It is important that the hair is NOT rubbed dry with a bath-towel since rubbing harms the hair and its structure. One should wrap the towel around the head by winding the towel tightly and carefully tapping the hair dry.

After washing the hair, shampoo must be rinsed out thoroughly. If this is not done, the remaining shampoo will detract from the gloss, fragrance and fluffiness of hair.

Hair combs and brushes

Wet hair should be combed or brushed as little as possible. The better thing to do would be to wait until the hair is entirely dry before beginning the smoothing process with a brush or comb.
After washing and drying, the hair is usually untangled with a brush or comb.

For the best results, hair knots should not be pulled. Instead, the tangled hair should be carefully combed out, starting from the tips and moving toward the roots (from down to up). But which is better, brushing or combing? In most cases, brushing is unfavorable, as it is more harmful to the hair. Combing can be more favorable, but using a comb can be either damaging or profitable to the hair. A horn comb would probably be the best choice when deciding what to use. It is made out of keratin, a material similar to that of hair. A horn comb reduces the electrostatic, or electrical charging in hair. Unfortunately these combs are very expensive and demonstrate sensitivity to both heat and chemicals. Remember to choose combs with blunt-edged points, as all sharp points and edges harm the hair.

Thus, in order to take good care of hair, everyone must never forget to always be aware of his or her needs, whether choosing shampoos, washing the hair, rubbing the hair dry, or combing it out...