Love My Body Now Series: Tame Your Hair.

In lieu of loving our bodies and appearance, and in conjunction with the LOVE MY BODY NOW SERIES-I have determined to discuss hair. It has been said that a woman's hair accounts for 50% of her beauty. And you know what? I believe that hook, line, and sinker. I am NOT a natural beauty. I have flaws just like everyone else, but I clean up well and know how to play up my best asset....my hair. I'm of the opinion that every woman's esteem would shoot up 20 more points if her tresses lived up to their potential.

How did I learn about hair? Great question. My first job was working at a salon for three years. I washed out hair color, took out perms rods, removed foils, blew out hair, sold product and observed up dos and styling in general. Furthermore I've been in theater my entire life and you learn amazing tricks for time period specific styles {Which never go out of style.} Below please find the products that I stand by and view my 2 step-by-step signature styles that are scrunchy free!

STYLING PRODUCTS:

Curl Booster:

To Bring some definition to curl/wave squirt a dime of THE BODY SHOP'S "Cottonseed Curl Boost" into your slightly damp hair. Then scrunch hair and define waves.

Pomade/Wax:

To polish look and for more definition use THE BODY SHOP'S "Beeswax Texturizing Wax." This product is also great for taming down fly- aways for up dos/pony tail and for husband's hair!

Hair Spray:

I only use hair spray for a crazy up do, or when curling my hair. When I do, I use "GARNIER FRUCTIS STYLE FULL CONTROL HAIR SPRAY"

HOT TOOLS:

Straightener:

If you have curly/wavy/processed hair settle for nothing less than a Chi. Anything else will leave you looking like a frizzy troll. When straightening hair, make certain hair is completely dry! You are begging for split ends if you disobey this law!

Wavy Giselle curl:

Use a basic 1 1/2 inch to 2 inch curling iron on the highest setting. Spritz your hair with hair spray then wrap a strand of hair around the barrel, NOT clamping it. Hold it in place for 30 Mississippis then carefully release from barrel.

*****Warning: use your hot tools sparingly. Breakage can and will occur if used over zealously. Give your hair a break by shampooing at minimum every other day. If you have colored/processed/curly hair go longer if possible!

BRUSHES/COMBS:

"Every woman should own a paddle brush,

wide tooth comb, and a round brush." -Ashley Yazzie

Wide Tooth Comb:

After towel drying, gently comb out your hair with this comb only! This avoids damage and breakage. Is your hair super tangly? Spray with a detangler or rub a small amount of conditioner on the ends. (Purchased mine at BODY SHOP.)

Paddle Brush:

Great for general brushing when dry, and for initial drying of hair.

Round Brush:

• A quality round brush from Sally's or Ulta will run you about $24-$40. Just buy it. I've had mine since high school. The investment is well worth it to blow out your own hair.
• After towel drying your hair, get the majority of the moisture out with the paddle brush. Next apply some straightening balm if you have curly hair (see my pick below) or if you have fine/thin hair massage some mousse into the crown of your head for volume. Section off your hair, and pull the brush from root to ends until the strand is straight and dry. Tedious, but well worth the reward.
• To keep your hair straight as long as possible, shower with a cap and avoid pulling your hair back in hair ties. Dents are NOT acceptable! Just because you can't see the back of your hair, doesn't mean everyone else can't!

CONDITIONERS:

My Favs:

1. ABBA MOISTURE SCENTSATION (massage product root to tip, and leave on for 3-5 minutes in the shower.)
2. Nice 'N Easy is my colorist. I color my hair every 4 weeks, so I need lots of moisture. Their conditioner they give you is awesome and always leaves my strands feeling silky
3. NouNou Conditioner/Illuminating Cream with tomato extract. (Great deep conditioner)
4. L'Oreal Vive Smooth-Intense Anti-Frizz Serum. Use this every time your blow out your hair!!

TWO HAIRSTYLES TO STEAL:

#1 SIDE BUN:

Step One: Have at least day old hair that hasn't been straightened by a flat iron!! Part an exaggerated part in your hair, swooping to the side. Rat out your hair ends as seen above.
Step Two: Pull your hair to preferred side, mocking a side pony tail. Keep the tail close to nape of you neck.
Step Three: Twist your tail around until it mocks a honey bun.
Step Four: Continue twisting into desired positioning. Then pin the entire perimeter into place. I like messy buns for day time, as to not look too prom-esque. But, if you have a swanky event, comb neater and tidier for a sleek look.
Step Five: Enjoy all the compliments you'll receive from your cronies.

#2 HEIDI BRAIDS:
I learned how to do Heidi Braids two summers ago when I was wigged for a show. It has become one of my favorite hairstyles. It's tres HAROLD AND MAUD meets STAR WARS.

Note: If you are wearing wig: do the braids then wear a wig cap underneath. This promotes a more natural look and prevents itchiness!

Step one: Please have dirty hair that has not been straightened! Part hair down the middle or choose a part to one side. Braid hair as high up above the ears as possible.
Step two: Pull braids across head in opposite directions. Then secure with hair pins at ends to keep in place. Note: some prefer to use rubber bands at ends.
Step Three: Enjoy a hassle-free, frizz free hair do. Side Note: This is a great look for the beach to avoid looking like a frizzy troll. Trust me, I've been that troll. Enjoy!