Wedding Wednesday...WorkOut Hair Maintenance

Many of you are actively trying to keep your bodies together, whether it be for life or for your wedding day.
If you are trying to get 'Snatched' for the wedding day or for life then you need to be conscience of the way you are maintaining your natural hair.
Those that have fine hair are probably shampooing their hair regularly, whereas those that have normal to coarse hair are probably shampooing 1-0 times a week.
No matter what texture your hair is, if you are working out multiple times a week then you should be shampooing your hair at least once a week.
The reason being is because if you are "really" working out then you are sweating.
Sweat (Perspiration) has salt in it along with many other minerals, which is dependent upon what the individual produces. It could be sodium (salt), magnesium, calcium, etc.
Imagine if you didn't take a shower after a workout, how would you smell after a week?!
That should put things into perspective on the importance of shampooing your hair.
If you can't smell your own hair, then others can and chances are you're being talked about. Just saying!
I'm not saying you have to shampoo everyday but at least once a week.
Leaving salt in your hair can be damaging as well. It can cause breakage because salt is drying, think about it. Salt absorbs.
I like sea breeze.
You can mix it in while you are shampooing your hair. Make sure you are also using a hydrating conditioner to ensure that you are restoring moisture into your hair.

Even if you are wearing braids, run some water through that scalp to rinse the salt out.
Even when I'm shampooing extensions, I can smell it when people have been sweating alot, it's not the most pleasant smell.
Again I stress, maintain good hair hygiene, no matter if you have extensions or natural hair.
I really like Paul Mitchell "shampoo three" because it's does an amazing job in cutting any impurities from the hair. It's the best that I've seen on the market. You can literally feel the difference on your hair.  Trust me, you'll be amazed!

"Hairfinity" through my eyes

I'm sure most of you have heard of this new supplement on the market called "Hairfinity".

I heard about this product a few months ago and I decided to wait and see how "real consumers" were taking to this new supplement. I am pretty knowledgeable in trichology (study of the health of hair and scalp), so I know that it takes more than a pill to grow hair.
I know that hair growth is based upon the way you eat and how well you take care of your body. This is in addition to how well you take care of your hair. The fact of the matter is that you can't expect to continuously abuse your hair and expect it to grow overnight. Just think, If you destroyed your hair for 10 years, what makes you think it can be repaired overnight?
Your hair has to be nursed, and that takes time. More often than not people put way too much stress on their natural hair. Between braiding, extensions, color, keratin treatments, blowouts and chemical straighteners, you damage the hair follicle and the shaft.
I'm not saying that everything is damaging to your hair. You can wear protective styles, you just need to be mindful that your hair is getting the natural nutrients that it needs.
As well as realizing that too much of anything isn't good. If you are wearing braids or even ponytails everyday, then your hair will thin over time.
More women are wearing their hair in it's natural state and not putting chemicals in it. I think that is a great way to go, if you you want to see the best results in rapid hair growth.
I have read a lot of the reviews and some people think it's a great product and others have experienced some side effects from using.
Some people have specified that growth has occurred after use. Others have complained about skin breakouts from use.
I have never heard of a vitamin causing skin breakouts before, however there is a first for everything.
As you can see I am not a believer in this product. I think that it has been marketed very well. I also feel as though the celebrity endorsements have given this product an advantage. Many celebrities are endorsing this supplement from the Kardashians, Moncia, Keisha Knight-Pullium, Emily B and more.
All I say is make sure you thoroughly research this product if you are thinking about using it.
If you want to take a vitamin, I recommend Biotin or Pre-natal vitamins.
I also highly recommend eating healthier as well.

Wedding Wednesday... A Barn-Style Wedding

A few weeks ago I had the pleasure of styling hair for a beautiful bride named Alix. After months of trial appointments, she decided to wear a classic and sleek bun. We went through 6 variations of bun styles and decided on a simple look.
Her wedding dress had alot of detail and she didn't want her hair to be a distraction.
Again this is why trial appointments are extremely important. It really takes the stress away, at least when it comes to hair. That day is already emotionally draining, you want to have as many things in place as possible.
Something else that's really important is, when you seek out vendors, make sure you get people who are professional and accommodating to your needs. Everyone is not going to be as nice as you would like, everyone isn't going to go above and beyond to make sure that your needs are met. This is when having great vendors really matter. It makes all the difference in making sure things go smoothly on your wedding day.
I'm pretty patient and I make sure that I do my best to accommodate my clients. It's not always easy but it's worth it. You don't let anyone disrespect you however  you want to make people comfortable.

Alix had a barn-style wedding, which had a rustic feel. Her guest ate BBQ and had the opportunity to take-in beautiful country views.
Congratulations to the Mr. and Mrs.!

Below are the looks from the Wedding Day. Styled by Me

Wedding Wednesday! Eat your way to Healthy Hair

 

Most brides to are trying to eat their way into a smaller dress size for their big day. However, did you know that the foods you eat not only have an effect on your waistline but also on the way your hair grows? As I did research for this post, I learned so much about different foods that have a beneficial effect on hair growth and overall health. Everyone wants healthy hair and in turn healthy hair that is growing. I'm going to share some ways that you can achieve both with changing or incorporating certain foods in your daily diet.
I happen to eat salmon (Wild caught of course, which has more nutrients than farm-raised salmon) on a weekly basis, so imagine how happy I was to find out that it also has essential omega 3 fatty acids in it.  Salmon is also a great source of Protein and Vitamin D. If you aren't a salmon lover, don't worry, there are other fish that are great substitutes. They are herring, sardines, trout, or mackerel.
Cinnamon which is a spice I often use in my oatmeal or on french toast, happens to be rich in antioxidants and stimulates blood circulation.
Sweet Potatoes are a good source of beta carotene. Your body turns beta carotene into vitamin A, which produces oil that sustains your scalp.
Cantaloupe is great for hydration, vitamin C, as well as a source of beta carotene.
If you happen to be a nut lover, Walnuts are the only nut that has a significant amount of omega 3 fatty acids. Walnuts are rich in biotin and vitamin E, which helps to protect cells from DNA damage. Not enough biotin can lead to hair loss. Walnuts have copper in them, which keeps your natural hair color rich and lustrous. Another nut that is great for your hair are pistachios which have high levels of monounsaturated and polysaturated fat which helps nourish hair/scalp.
If your hair is dry and flaky, try eating Oysters which are rich in zinc. Only 3 ounces has 493% of your daily value. You can also eat zinc fortified cereals or whole grain breads.
Eggs is a food that many of us have heard is good for you because of the protein that it stores. What most of us didn't know was that eggs have 4 key minerals in them. They are zinc, sulfur, selenium, and iron. These minerals are important because they help cells carry oxygen to the hair follicle.
Now let's get into the Mean Greens!!! I love my greens!
Spinach keeps hair follicles healthy and scalp oils circulating. Spinach has iron, vitamin C, folate, and beta carotene in it, which is what keeps your follicles healthy. You can also substitute spinach for broccoli, kale, or swiss chard.
I'm not the biggest fan of lentils, but they aren't bad in soups. They are a great source of protein, iron, zinc, and biotin. It's also a staple for vegans and vegetarians. You could also substitute lentils for soybeans, edamame, or kidney beans.
Greek Yogurt is high in hair-friendly protein, Vitamin B-5, Vitamin D, and pantothenic acid (ingredient often found in haircare products).
Blueberries are a great source of vitamin C, which is critical for blood circulation to the scalp. It supports blood vessels that feed your hair follicles.
Other great substitutes for blueberries are kiwi, tomatoes, and strawberries.
Lastly we have something for the carnivores. Meat is also beneficial to hair health.
Poultry has not only protein, but also zinc, iron and B vitamins, which keep hair strands strong and plentiful. For those who aren't aware, your hair is made up of 97% protein and 3% keratin. It's essential to eat foods rich in protein because it gives you the building blocks for your hair.




Source- www.webmd.com
Lisa Drayer. NA, RD, Nutritionist. New York
Cybele Fishman. MD, Dermatologist. New York

Rising S.T.A.R.S Pampering Day with the Tress Artist

Over the past weekend I was blessed to be able to use my talents for a great cause. A good friend of mine started a non-profit organization for troubled teen girls who are struggling with their self-esteem. Low self-esteem is a huge problem amongst teens and even some adults. I know how I feel when my hair is freshly done. I feel beautiful and like I can conquer the world. “When you look good, you feel good”.  I saw an area where I could be of some service and I dived in. It was so rewarding to donate my services to these girls. Just to see the smiles on their faces after they had an evening of pampering was incredible.
We totally transformed them into the Cinderella’s that they really are. Often kids with self esteem issues, develop them because of emotional, verbal, sexual, and physical abuse that happens right in their own homes. It’s programs like Rising S.T.A.R.S that gives these girls hope that no matter what their circumstance is, that they can be successful.

I remember vividly how I was as a teen and those were some of the most difficult times of my life because I battled with acceptance and individuality. As a teen you want to be accepted by your peers, you want to be apart of the "popular" social circles. I'm so grateful that I had a amazing support system at home that allowed me to be Serena. I had structure at home and even though at the time I didn't see the benefits, as an adult I do. The type of people you hang around as a teen has a huge effect on your outcome, so it's important to choose them wisely. Kids will be kids, but some of the choices you make as a kid can have a lifelong effect.
This is why Rising S.T.A.R.S is so necessary for the community. It's not only beneficial for girls but also for their families. The program broadens their perspective so that they know, that someone believes in them and they have the ability to be anything that they sought out to be. It takes education, determination, and focus.

At-Home HairCare. Natural Hair maintence

I've noticed that more and more people think they can manage proper hair care on their own. Before I moved to the DMV area, clients came weekly or on a bi-weekly basis for hair appointments. However the reality is that people are stretching out their appointments a bit longer. Some are protesting because of a bad salon experience, some are on a budget and consider hair a "luxury", others "think" they are hairstylist because they watched a few "How to..." YouTube videos. Whatever the reason may be I want to make sure that you accomplish great results without damaging your hair. It's a few factors that go into a successful blowout, press and curl, or ceramic straightening. I will walk you through steps that should be factored in when you are maintaining your hair at home. I Do Not recommend that this become a regular occurrence for you, rather a "Rare" one. I highly recommend seeing a "Licensed Professional" for your hair care needs.

Blowout-

Shampoo your hair with a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner. I like Joico smoothing cure line. I also like Wella Enrich line. It specifies it's for coarse, curly, and frizzy hair, however I use it for medium and normal hair as well.
People with fine hair should use Joico Body Luxe or Kerastase Bain Volumactive. It's very important that you use good products because that determines how well the outcome of your hair will be. If your foundation is solid then the final result will reflect a healthy sheen, and voluminous body.
After you have shampooed and conditioned your hair, you will apply a heat protectant. I use Design Essentials HCO Leave-in treatment as well as Moroccan oil. After I apply the product, I then blow-dry the hair with a ceramic blow dryer (Babylyss Pro). A ceramic blow-dryer not only gets hot but it also gives your hair a noticeable sheen.  While blow-drying, use a paddle brush, if you want straight sleek/silky hair (http://www.denmanbrushus.com/ ) and a round brush
( http://www.beautystoponline.com/Rusk-Brushes-and-Hair-Combs-s/181138.htm ) if you want your hair to have volume and curls. The brushes give your hair body. You want to make sure you don't over-use product as it will weigh your hair down and compromise the outcome.

Press and Curl-

 

 

 

 This process takes a bit more skill. Pressing hair is an art in my opinion. You have to have the right pressing comb. It has to be "broken" in (meaning the wax coating has to be burned off), and you have to know the technique of silking the hair properly. I only use Kentucky made pressing combs. The teeth have to be pretty close together, if you have a wide-tooth pressing comb, you won't get your hair as straight. One of the keys to using a pressing comb properly is knowing that the back of the comb is what gets your hair straight. You still use the teeth to comb through the hair then you turn it slightly to the back almost like you are flipping the hair upward. Divide the hair in 4 large sections and press hair in 1/2" sections.

Ceramic Straightening (Flat-iron) -

 

 This step is easier than Pressing the hair. The key to using a ceramic straightener is having a good one. There are so many on the market today. In order to get a good iron, you should definitely do your research. I only use irons which I can control the temperature. The irons that only have an on and off switch often fluctuate in temperature. You want the heat to be consistent so that you get great results. I use a couple different ceramic straighteners, FHI and Babylyss Pro. I have different sizes as well. These tools are not to be used on your hair daily. It is safe to use once a week following a shampoo and conditioning. If you use this tool on a daily basis, expect to see breakage. No ones hair can tolerate that amount of heat daily. Most people rush when they do their own hair and that's why you don't get the same results as a professional. Flat-ironing in small sections is key to getting a salon finish, as well as gliding down the hair shaft slowly. Consistency is key, you want the same amount of heat to be distributed evenly throughout the hair.

Even though I gave you tips on at-home hair care maintenance, it's not to encourage you to be your own stylist rather educate you on the proper why to do it in case of an emergency.

 

 

Holiday Hair Ideas

It's that time of year again, which might I add came up really fast.  I'm sure many of you are finalizing travel plans, or trying to figure out what plans should be made. Of course the even bigger question is "What should I do with my hair?" I'm here to help you figure it out. Whether it's an simple up-do, color, silk press, extensions, braids, etc... I'll give you a few looks that may help you with your decision. Some of you will be in the kitchen cooking, socializing with friends/family, traveling, or maybe just relaxing. If you will be in the kitchen, a simple, heat resistant hairstyle would be the most practical. A great solution would be a sleek ponytail or an low maintenance up-do.
As for those of you who will be entertaining friends/family, a statement hairstyle would work best. You'll be doing a lot of talking, playing games, possibly even dancing, so you want that hair to have movement.
Even if you will be traveling or relaxing, you want versatility but also something you can maintain on your own. Braids, natural (heatless) style, or even extensions could be the route you want to go.
Whichever holiday plans that you settle on, make sure that your  hairstyle is easy for you to maintain.

Happy Holidays from Serena Hampton the Tress Artist

Credit: Triplemaxtons.com

Credit: Theybf.com

Credit: More.com

Credit: Makeupforlife.net

Credit: Soulfulbeauty.com

Credit: Juxtapost.com

Change (Fall Color change and color care)

Fall is a great time for change. It's important when you are seeking a change for the season that you do it responsibly. It's important to make sure that you aren't compromising the health of your hair for a color change. Hair should be healthy before applying color to it. I usually apply 2-3 protein treatments before I will even consider a client for color. I always use a little protein while conditioning my clients every visit. Too much protein is not good, however 1-2 times a month is a great way to strengthen the hair.
After color has been done if you are someone who wears their hair naturally curly, it's important to co-wash your hair. Shampoo strips vital oils out of your hair so co-washing is best if you wet your hair often. Conditioner does actually have cleansing agents in it so your hair will get a cleansing as well as retain the oils.
If you don't wear your hair curly then it's important to not use excessive amounts of heat and make sure your hair is hydrated and not dry. After leaving a professional after a color service, it's up to you (the client) to maintain healthy habits. If you aren't good at hair maintenance then you probably shouldn't have gotten color to began with. However if you did, make sure that you are wrapping your hair daily with a satin scarf or bonnet. If you are really lazy then make sure you at least have a satin pillowcase.
The main thing to remember when you have color is that you have to get it hydrated. The hair has been broken down/stripped so it needs to be built back up. That's why after any color service a neutralizer should be used to bring the ph back to normal. As well as a protein treatment, followed by a deep conditioning.



First look: Natural hair, Partial Highlight (toned), Base change, Pressed and Ceramic curled
     


                                                                             Before

After

Second Look:   Natural hair (Virgin hair), Partial Highlight (toned)(slice technique), Pressed and Ceramic curled


                                                                          Before

                                                                   
                                                                           After