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CAROL'S
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Views
& tips from your side of the counter........
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Curlie-Girlie
Wannabe's
If, unlike me, you have dead straight hair and long for those catwalk
curls, why not treat yourself ( or better still let someone else
treat you!) to one of those new temporary curl kits. Apparently
curls are back in a big way again on the catwalks and many stars
have shed the straight and shiny images for the pre-Raphaelite look.
These kits come complete with rollers, bendies, grips, styling products
etc. to suit a number of styles. They contain step-by-step instructions
on how to create the look you want and, unlike perming, if you don't
like it just wash it out! They could also be useful if you are considering
something more permanent just to give you a rough idea of if it
suits you or not. Maybe you'd just like a change for a party, wedding
or special occasion - this could be the answer.
L'oreal Professional Curl Party Kit comes
in a bit pricey at around £38 but is packed full of all the goodies
you'll need in a smart chic bag.
A more affordable and similar kit is available by Nikki Clarke for
around £15 available at Boots.
So while I'm busy cursing by badly-behaved inherited curls ( even
if they now are in vogue ) if it's the look you want give it a go!
Readers of a top hair magazine recently tried and tested a number
of products designed to keep curls looking in tip top shape.
(1) Umberto Gianni Curl Friends Quick Fix Wake Up Spray
£4.45 200 ml
Even if it does have a ridiculously long-winded name this product
definitely came out on top of those tested. The readers described
it as 'brilliant'. Apparently it performed really well, revived
yesterdays curls and smelt really nice. Easy to use and reasonably
priced this one's definitely going on my next shopping list!
(2)
Citre Shine Styler Curling Balm
£4.95 200ml
The readers described this as a 'good result' it gave shine and
defined curls quite well - but a word of warning, having tried
this one myself, do be careful not to use too much or you may
get that chip-pan look!
(3)
KMS Bounce Back Spray Curl Up
£4.95 200ml
Again thumbs up for soft, defined curls and a nice smell. Economical
for shortish hair but did need quite a lot to cover shoulder length
curls.
(4)
Wella Shock Waves Curl Boost Mousse £2.99 200ml
Like me this reader was not a fan of mousse and didn't really
change her mind with this product. It did get the thumbs up for
defining curls but lacked shine. Having used this myself I agreed
and wasn't keen on the slight stickiness it left.
(5)
Tigi Curl Jam Styling Gel
£10.50 175ml
This sounds expensive but only the tiniest amount is needed so
is fairly good value for money. The reader said that her curls
looked healthier and more defined than ever but the downside was
the common 'crispiness' which often accompanies gel. This usually
happens when left to air dry so combat this with a gentle blow
dry during the last stages of drying. Again this one's going on
my 'to be tried' list.
| Did
you know? That well known household name 'silvikrin'
still sells over 3.7million litres of hairspray per year.
That's an awful lot of beehives! |
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The
pre-Raphaelite look.
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Dying
to try -
Ready
to wear Shimmer Serum Ultra Light Glosser
£4.95 from John Frieda's range. Recommended to add
lots of shine without the grease and super for fine hair.
Frizz-ease Emergency Leave-In Conditioning Spray.
Again from John Frieda range at £3.95. As a recent
convert to leave-in conditioners I'm dying to try this one.
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Top
Tips
(1)
If it's a new look you want without having 'the chop' try changing
your fringe! Wispy fringes are flattering to most face shapes.
If you usually wear a fringe try gelling it back or wearing your
parting on a different side. You'll be amazed how much this can
change your look.
(2) Hair too thick? Get your stylist to feather or razor cut,
it will add texture + shape without drastic changes to length
or style.
(3) Long, straight hair will benefit from
using a paddle brush during blow-drying. Use the concentrator
nozzle fairly close to the brush and finish with a gloss spray
to boost shine.
(4) Remember - you don't need to loose length when having layers.
Layers give movement and interest to any style. Long hair looks
stunning with a few subtle layers, adding height, and can help
limp hair look more voluminous.
(5) If you're the modern, creative type
you'll no doubt be using gallons of products to achieve the look.
But remember, most things benefit from a rest from time to time.
So next time you've a gap in your social diary, try using one
of the de-tox products to remove product build-up, follow with
a good, conditioner and just enjoy that 'natural-look' for a while.
Who knows you may decide it suits you!
(6) Highlights are probably the best way to liven up mousy hair.
Go for lots of very fine highlights for the most subtle look and
for the choice of colour do take your stylists advice. The overall
colour will depend on several factors including original colours
& condition for example. Your stylist will have a good idea of
what's best for you.
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