HAIR OSH

What is it about blonde hair that gets more attention, more appeal, more of everything? We’re not sure, but we do know nine blondes that have it all and are blessed with the golden locks. Let’s take a look at the top nine blondes in music.

1. Taylor Swift - this country starlet is on fire. Fresh off the Country Music Awards circuit, where she sang a beautiful rendition of Back To December, her latest single she wows the crowd everywhere she makes an appearance and is popular among the teen set for her gorgeous (sometime curly) sometimes straight hair.

2. Carrie Underwood - another Country music sensation, Carrie got her start on the wildly successful American Idol when she was crowned the winner on Season 5 of the hit TV series. Since then there’s no magazine cover she hasn’t been on and no music award she hasn’t won. Absolute mind blowing success has followed since 2005 when she wore her hair curly and wavy. She now has nothing but the top stylists tending to her mane and as such has never looked better.

3. Eminem - we can’t give all the attention to the ladies, right. The mouth from Detroit is worthy of making it on our list of hot blonds in music for 2010. Eminem has been around more than ten years now, making him a bona fide icon in his own right and a gifted musician as well. A self taught rapper since he was a wee bit boy, Eminem made it big after his self titled debut album hit the scene over ten years ago, since then teen white boys across America have flocked to see him in arena after arena. He wears his hair super tight and with plenty of attitude.

4. Mariah Carey - one of my all time fave Christmas songs is by the multi-talented and multi-award winning dynamite known as Mariah Carey. All I Want For Christmas which she first sprang to the world in 1994 has gone on to become one of the most sought after and best selling Christmas singles of all time. It’s a spirited, fun and jolly good song. As for Mariah’s golden locks, she tends to wear it on the honey blond side.

5. Madonna - the queen of blond ambition. Madonna has worn it blond since way back in the 80’s when she first came out with her debut album. Although it has taken on several shades since then and many different cuts, she’s kept it sexy and light till 2010. We love Madonna because she has survived the limelight for decades with awesome style, fierce dedication and great hair.

6. Christina Aguilera - fresh off a hot movie with Cher, this Latina beauty is no slacker in the music business. She came out at a similar time as Britney Spears and at first drew comparisons to her, yet came out victorious with her sultry charm and over the top powerful vocals. Unlike Britney she’s known more for her music ability, than tabloid fodder. Since her debut, she’s had a string of big hits and has appeared on numerous magazine covers and won much acclaim with critics. However she’s nowhere near her pinnacle, she’s just getting started on what we hope is a long and lustrous career. As for her hair? She wears it many times old school 40’s style - wavy, long and very sleek.

7. Mary J Blige - aside from having excellent hair, Mary is as usual on top of her game. Ever since she graced us with her presence in the music scene, she’s been able to hold her own in the tough, highly competitive and mostly male dominated R&B niche. Many dub her the queen of R&B and we have to agree with hit after hit and numerous music awards to her credit. We have nothing but “Real Love” for Ms. Blige and her sexy hot golden locks too.

8. Shakira - a free spirit by nature, this Columbian born songstress has taken the US by storm. She started her musical career in Latin America with soulful ballads and charismatic performances that led to her American arrival and ascension. Originally a brunette (sshh!! - like many on our list) and Spanish song bird, she has catapulted herself into a major international diva with her own hair and makeup entourage. Her hair is magnificent long or short, but we heart it long and apparently she does as well, since she tends to wear it practically down to her knees.

9. Your pick? - Did we miss your fave blonde in music today? Tell us below in the comment area. Male or female doesn’t matter, let us know who we missed and why.

Holidays bring upon us a festive mood and a need for “looking our best” while we entertain and enjoy the festivities. Hair straightening can help you manage those holiday stresses by creating a look that can vary in many ways, giving you different styles beginning with one technique. Not only is it something that helps you look your best but it keeps your hair from being unruly and wild.

The last thing you need as your putting on the finishing touches going out the door to that holiday event is hair that just goes wild! Note: ALWAYS tell your stylist if you have treated hair (coloring, perms, etc.) as these require special techniques and products to get the best and safest results!

Having your hair straightened can truly help make your holidays less stressful and here’s how:

1. A Simple Sleek Look that lays flat, sleek and shiny throughout the holiday season

2. The ability to place added festive hair accessories can turn your simple plain look from daytime business to evening savvy in no time – and it’s no longer hidden by frizzies or unruly curls

3. Proper techniques give your hair a shine and glow that is unmatched by other simple techniques such as hot oil treatments, constant trimming of split ends or using conditioners that can build up

4. Hair is no longer unruly – getting caught in a snow storm, rain storm, high winds and horrible weather no longer end up causing a frizz attack on your head! You can go out without worry looking glamorous from head to toe. Don’t forget to use the proper product though!

5. When your hair looks good you look and feel good! Taking the time and effort to have your hair straightened not only will make you feel beautiful as you enter those office parties and family gatherings this holiday season but it’s going to last well into the New Year…. making that resolution of a “new you” seem even more realistic!

6. Sometimes a “gift” to yourself is just needed! You’re important and making yourself feel good with the treat of a good, quality hair straightening can truly bring you into the holiday spirit all through the season! Of course you can always put a complete spa and hair straightening treatment on your list for someone to gift you!

Common Hair Straightening Terms:

* Japanese Straightening – (One of the best, probably most expensive but also best quality techniques out there when done by a properly trained hair technician)
* Thermal Reconditioning – (An excellent conditioning technique that leaves your hair in great condition AND beautifully straight)
* Straight Perm – (Be careful here, using the improper chemicals and an untrained staff can give horrible results of damaging hair extensively! Use a professional!)
* Japanese Straight Perm – (One of the best, probably most expensive but also best quality techniques out there when done by a properly trained hair technician)
* Keratin Treatments – (Less expensive & slightly less time intense technique, also available by many salons and a lot less exclusive to special training)

Hair straightening is known as many things but one of the most recently popular and well known versions is called Japanese Hair Straightening. This technique is offered at many salons and is a long, drawn out process; but the results are just short of miraculous and in most cases last for a lengthy period of time.

It is HIGHLY recommended you have your Japanese Hair Straightening done in an experienced salon.

What to expect:

Cost: $80 - $100 per hour (Japanese Straightening is a 5 to 8 Hour Process ) this does not include tip or extras such as special shampoos you may wish to purchase to get the most out of your new “do”. Don’t skimp, get the proper shampoos, conditioners and products for your hair

Time: On average the entire Japanese Straightening process runs about Six Hours (less for shorter hair, longer for much longer hair – and it’s also dependent upon which type of straightening you are going for)

Other processes, such as the Keratin treatments take much less time but are still time consuming.

Benefits: While some may consider the process costly (running anywhere from $500 - $800 total after you add in tips, special shampoos and conditioners) this technique generally lasts up to 6 months or more before you need a “touch up”. Japanese Straightening techniques are the crème de la crème and will generally last longest (6 months or even longer when treated properly)

Cons: The biggest deterrent would have to be the cost and time involved in getting your hair professionally straightened. Other cons include the fact that treated hair is very touchy and must be done with an experienced hair technician can all be factors you must consider. You can find less expensive techniques but they won’t last as long as the more expensive techniques and may be slightly more damaging to your hair, especially if done improperly or the wrong chemicals are used. Special product is recommended to maintain your hair (shampoo, conditioner, etc.)

Things like beach days, pool water and windy days can make your hair unmanageably tangled or damaged. Don’t worry though, there are plenty of products on the market today to help de-tangle your hair, that will leave you pain free, worry free and make your hair great. We decided to seek some of the best products for de-tangling your hair and we have it narrowed down to the best three which we profile briefly below.

Paul Mitchell The Detangler

Paul Mitchell is a well known brand known for some of the best hair care products, so rest assure that they have put tons of research into bringing you the best formula around. This product comes in a variety of sizes from 10.14 oz to 33.8 oz. The detangler is designed with people cursed with dry and damaged hair in mind. If you have tried every other product out there and still have problems with tangled hair then this is the product for you. This Detangler instantly detangles your hair and when used daily can revitalize your hair to be as silky and healthy as ever.

Circle of Friends Abebi’s Safari Detangler

Circle of Friends is well known for its safe and gentle formulas. This Product only comes in one size (8 oz) but at eight dollars it is also one of the least expensive on the market. Abebi’s Safari, like many other products under the Circle of Friends brand smells amazing this detangler has a sweet pineapple smell. Their products are originally intended for children but work just as well on adults with any type of hair. Definitely give this a look if your kid has the same problem with damaged or tangled hair as you do, or if you have a sensitive scalp.

Sexy Hair Concepts Big Sexy Hair Volumizing Detangler

Definitely the best smelling of all the detanglers we’ve tried. The Volumizing Detangler is great for any length of hair - long or short and can be sprayed in your hair anytime but works best after a shower. The effects of this detangler are pretty long lasting but with most detangling products works best when used daily. The Big Sexy Hair Volumizing Detangler comes in a 8.5 oz spray bottle. Sexy hair has possibly the largest selection of hair care products ranging from hair gel to frizz control product so they do know hair. This detangler has an eight dollar price tag, maybe the biggest bang for your buck.

That completes our round up of three good hair detangler products found on the web. As usual, let us know what you think and feel free to share your own good finds below in the comment area.

We love to hear about your favorite hair products, so chime in below.

Japanese straightening is the permanent way to transform your curly and wavy hair into smooth, straight and shinny hair. The entire process can take up to 5 hours, but it’s well worth the time if done right.

It’s a delicate transformation that requires a stylist who invests himself into the process. This is why it can only be done properly by a professional hair stylist. So don’t try this at home or at the first hair salon you bump into. Take your time. Find a professional hair stylist with experience and everything will work just fine.

Here’s why the Japanese straightening method is better than anything else out there:

#1: It’s lets your feminine side shine naturally.
Countless studies have shown that strong, confident and successful men are attracted to the most feminine women. It happens every single time! The soft, silky nature of this hair gives you a more feminine appeal. Men will notice this unconsciously. They can not help themselves.

Bottom line: appearing more feminine never hurt any girl. Of course, this may not be the main reason for making your hair shinny, soft and silky. Yet, it’s still hard not to count this as a bonus point.

#2: It’s a conversation starter.
I lost count of how many times I saw men approaching women with this line: “I like your hair. I’m Johnny. Nice to meet you!” It’s a neutral, innocent line. It may not be the best one out there and I assure you: it’s better than nothing.

When you have good looking hair, you become like a magnet for everyone around you. People have something to say right away. New relationships will form as a result. Everyone will remember you as the girl with amazing locks.

#3: It skyrockets your social circle to an entirely new level.
Imagine having to stay 5 hours in the company of one or even more professional stylists. Be smart and use this time to your own advantage. It’s the right time to start new high quality relationships and friendships. Professional hair stylists are at the edge of what’s new and cool. They are the real social hubs.

#4: Your hair will feel like it’s brand new, smooth and shinny.
Your hair will have again the just-out-of-the-box feel with a minimum of effort. You will have no choice but to love your hair even more.

#5: You will not need to use that much conditioner anymore.
Your new hair will be easy to maintain. You will need to use very little conditioner. Every day for 2 minutes dry the hair’s extremities and your hair will maintain its smoothness during the entire day.

#6: It’s not for everyone.
Not every girl next door can afford this high quality hair. The price varies from $350 to $1000 depending on the salon. It follows the mantra of “you get what you pay for” . The more expensive services are usually the more professional and the higher quality.

Using the Japanese straightening is like having your brand new assistant working full time for you. It does so many things that no other method can match. It helps you expand your social life. It maintains your gorgeous hair for you. It frees up more of your time. And you can not help but be at your best every minute of every day.

If you have straight hair and want some curls, loose curls – a digital perm might work for you. As usual hair type, hair length and hair product will determine results. As for how a digital perm works it’s a combination of heat rods set to a certain temperature, along with certain chemicals that give you a loose curl hot perm.

This type of hair technique is good for Asian hair, Latin hair, frizzy hair and any hair that is straight and in need of some bounce, some curl and or some waves. Many Asian woman enjoy a digital perm since it gives hair much needed volume as well.

Next time you’re in need of a hair salon service that will give your untamed and unruly straight hair some body and curls, consider a hot perm. Ask your stylist for a consult and see if your hair type and hair length will benefit from a digital perm.

A digital perm is a perm which uses hot rods with the temperature regulated by a machine, which has a digital display, hence the name. However, the process of the perm is quite analogous. The name Digital Perm is also copyrighted by a Japanese company, PAIMORE Co., Ltd. Hair stylists usually call it a hot perm? but it is commonly known as a digital perm?

A normal perm basically requires only the perm solution. A digital perm requires a (different) solution plus heat. This type of perm was developed in Korea, and now popular in both South Korea and Japan and other countries.

Difference between a normal perm and a digital perm

The biggest difference between other perms and a digital perm is the shape and the texture of the wave created by the digital process.

A normal perm, or a cold perm? makes the wave most prominent when the hair is wet, and loose when it is dry. The hair tends to look moist and as locks.

A digital perm makes the wave most prominent when the hair is dry, and loose when it is wet. Therefore you can create the dry and curly look of the curl iron or the hot curler. The digital perm requires heat, so it is also called a hot perm?in comparison to the cold perm?
Digital perms thermally recondition the hair, though the chemicals and processing are similar to a straight perm. One’s hair often feels softer, smoother, and shinier after a digital perm than before it.

 Cost and time of a digital perm

The price depends on the hair salon, but a digital perm is usually a little more expensive than a cold perm. Also, some hair salons have systems where they can use the machine one at a time, in which case the price could be a lot higher.

The time it takes to perm the hair also depends on the hair salon and the hair type, but it usually takes longer than a cold perm. In some cases, it takes about the same time, but different salons use different solutions and machines, so the time varies.

 Styling

A cold perm makes the hair most wavy when it is wet, so to put the styling gel/foam when it is wet and air-drying it makes the wave most prominent. A digital perm makes the hair wavy when it is dry, so you just need to dry it with a blow dryer, and use your hand to make the curl. Styling is very easy, and if you set the curl in the morning, at the end of the day when the wave loosens, you can revive the curl just by curling it with your finger.

 Recommendation

A cold perm does not work well with fine hair or coarse hair. A digital perm, on the other hand, can work well with coarse hair, but not well with fine and straight hair. However, most of the problems can be covered by the right selection of the perm solution and the hair stylist’s technique.

A digital perm won’t get easily straightened with blow-drying. If you like to enjoy both wavy and straight hair, a cold perm would be better for you. Because a digital perm requires heat, it cannot be used close to your scalp. If you want volume and want to have the perm close to the roots, a digital perm is not for you. Also, a digital perm cannot create tight waves.

Because a digital-perm is so easy to style, it is recommended for people who have a hard time styling at home. It also works well with coarse hair. A digital perm can create loose waves and curls, which is difficult with a cold perm.

Q: I have been surfing some Asian websites today and I saw the term digital perm?often. What is a digital perm?
 
A: The digital perm is a renovation of an old idea. One of the earliest methods of permanent waving?used metal rods through which electric current was run to heat them, with chemical solutions applied in order to create permanent waves?in the hair. The process was cumbersome, and often severely damaging to the hair.
 
      However, modern technology has revisited the idea in light of the advances made in chemical texture services with Japanese Thermal Restructuring techniques. The new digital Perms?use specially devised equipment that are combined with specially formulated waving solutions to combine chemical and thermal waving techniques to give smoother, healthier waves. The heat application is controlled and more productive, and the results are smooth, clean waves and curls in the hair.
 
      The look is especially popular among women with long hair and traditionally straight hair types. This has made the process extremely popular in Asia and other regions where straight hair is the ethnic norm. Most digital perm machines come with a wide range of rod sizes, so virtually any permed look is possible.
 
      As with the Japanese Restructuring and Straightening service, you should look for salons that have specially trained technicians before booking this type of appointment. Be sure to do your homework and check out the technician’s experience level with Digital Perms and ask to see a portfolio and references.

It is the process of permanently straightening human hair. It will turn hair that is curly, wavy or frizzy into completely smooth straight hair. Compared with other chemical straighteners, thermal reconditioning is milder and is safer for your hair. It is also known as Japanese straightening, Japanese perm, Ionic Retexturizing and re-bonding.

The procedure of thermal reconditioning requires a few steps that will take frizzy, curly or wavy hair to appearing smooth and straight. The first step is to apply a special mixture through wet hair, then a special type of iron is run over each section of the hair to lock in the style. Once the iron has been run over each section of the hair, a neutralizing solution is added to keep it from having a “fried look.” In the end, your hair will have a sheen glossy look that will not require blow-drying.

If you are considering thermal reconditioning to straighten your hair, there are a few facts that you should know and consider before going ahead with the treatment.

•How much does Thermal reconditioning cost?

The cost of the treatment will depend on the length of your hair, thickness, the presence of any other harsh chemicals that are already in your hair ad the stylist’s experience. Cost of thermal reconditioning typically starts at $350 and above.

•How long does the process take?

On average, if the procedure is done correctly, it can take between three to six hours to complete. It is possible, that it could even take longer if necessary.

•What types of hair does Thermal Reconditioning work best on?

Caucasian hair, Asian, Latin, Middle Eastern, Norwegian and almost any other type of hair. Thermal Reconditioning can work on almost every type of hair that is available.

•How long does it last?

While some may report that Thermal Reconditioning is supposed to last forever, it typically lasts nine months to one year. When your hair grows out, the new growth must be treated as well.

•Who are some well-known actresses or public figures who have tried Thermal Reconditioning?

Sarah Jessica Parker, Chelsea Clinton, Nicole Kidman, Cher, Julianne Moore, Jennifer Aniston

If you are someone with frizzy, curly, or wavy hair who would be interested in having glossy straight hair, then you can apply these facts to see if thermal reconditioning could be the answer for you.

If you’re looking to get thermal reconditioning done, you’re probably wondering how long it lasts. Let’s take a look.

Thermal reconditioning is a process by which your hair is made straight, silky and shiny. This takes time and your stylist will let you know from the get go how long the entire process takes, as it varies by stylist. Some take 3 hours, others up to 5 hours. It depends on several things including length of hair, type of hair, the chemical used and the stylist’s experience.

Once it’s done and you’re flowing with beautiful locks, how long does it last? Usually the treatment last up to several months, as it is a permanent solution. However you have to keep in mind that new hair re-growth will come out in natural state, meaning if you’re hair is naturally curly this is how new growth will come out. So a touch up will be needed to maintain the straight look.

It’s best practice to develop a relationship with your stylist, so he or she can keep you in the loop as to what works for your specific situation. Your friendly and helpful stylist will take a good look at your locks and determine a plan of action. Feel free to ask questions and know what it is you’re getting into, as far as before, during and after thermal treatment.

To recap, keep in mind that hair length, type of hair and the specific chemical used - will determine how long the thermal reconditioning treatment takes and how long it will last after. But most treatments last for several months.

Winter may have descended upon us, but Leonor Greyl has just introduced a secret weapon against the threat of dry, damaged hair. It’s called Masque Quintessence.
The deeply hydrating mask was formulated with two nourishing and repairing oils: cupuacu oil from the Amazon and manketti oil from Namibia. It can either be used sparingly on dry hair before shampooing or on damp hair after shampooing. If you use it on damp hair, leave the product on for 10 to 20 minutes, then rinse it off.
Voila! Hair is revitalized, repaired, shiny, soft and manageable. Check out leonorgreyl.com for more info. Winter may have descended upon us, but Leonor Greyl has just introduced a secret weapon against the threat of dry, damaged hair. It’s called Masque Quintessence. The deeply hydrating mask was formulated with two nourishing and repairing oils: cupuacu oil from the Amazon and manketti oil from Namibia. It can either be used sparingly on dry hair before shampooing or on damp hair after shampooing. If you use it on damp hair, leave the product on for 10 to 20 minutes, then rinse it off. Voila! Hair is revitalized, repaired, shiny, soft and manageable. Check out leonorgreyl.com for more info.

—Lotus Abrams, managing editor

Winter may have descended upon us, but Leonor Greyl has just introduced a secret weapon against the threat of dry, damaged hair. It’s called Masque Quintessence.
The deeply hydrating mask was formulated with two nourishing and repairing oils: cupuacu oil from the Amazon and manketti oil from Namibia. It can either be used sparingly on dry hair before shampooing or on damp hair after shampooing. If you use it on damp hair, leave the product on for 10 to 20 minutes, then rinse it off.
Voila! Hair is revitalized, repaired, shiny, soft and manageable. Check out leonorgreyl.com for more info. Winter may have descended upon us, but Leonor Greyl has just introduced a secret weapon against the threat of dry, damaged hair. It’s called Masque Quintessence. The deeply hydrating mask was formulated with two nourishing and repairing oils: cupuacu oil from the Amazon and manketti oil from Namibia. It can either be used sparingly on dry hair before shampooing or on damp hair after shampooing. If you use it on damp hair, leave the product on for 10 to 20 minutes, then rinse it off. Voila! Hair is revitalized, repaired, shiny, soft and manageable. Check out leonorgreyl.com for more info.

—Lotus Abrams, managing editor