Hair & Now

Treat Your Hair Like Fine Silk
How would you care for a silk blouse? I like to think hair is like a silk blouse you must wear every day—a garment you’re going to wash every day or two, dry, and wear over and over again over four to six weeks. The right color, cut, and ease of care are all factors. So will you buy your shirt quickly at a discount store or at a high-end boutique after trying on several?

I don’t mean to imply that paying a higher price guarantees happiness, but when you find the stylist that makes you look and feel great, he or she is worth holding onto.

A good cut to the “fabric” is the base of style. A great haircut makes your morning routine a breeze, rather than a nightmare. Your stylist should help you find the best style for your hair texture, face, shape, and lifestyle.

Now imagine your blouse is a different texture or color, something that adds interest and enhances the look of your skin, eyes, and face shape. Fullness can be added with a body wave or curling iron, and a straightness or flat iron can create a sleeker look. A textured silk will reflect light differently than a smooth silk. When it comes to color, light pieces draw the eye to the area and reflect more light. Dark colors absorb light and add depth and richness.

Once you have the right quality, cut, texture, and color, it’s time to find the right products to wash and maintain it. You wouldn’t use a harsh detergent on your beautiful garment; you’d dry clean or use the recommended luxury hand washing liquid. The same goes for shampoos and conditioners. The professional products contain less of the harsh ingredients and detergents that can dry out and strip color from hair. Professional brands offer many different formulas, so your stylist can prescribe the right combination to keep your hair at its best. To create the salon look at home, you’ll need styling products. The finish on your hair affects light reflection. There are great shine products to make hair look healthy and luxurious—to reflect light like shiny silk.

The best thing about your particular “silk blouse” is that it grows and gives you new material to work with. So don’t be afraid to try new things and find the right stylist for you.  tpw

Source URL: http://ww2.peoriamagazines.com/tpw/2006/jul/hair-now