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Hair Care

November 2020 – Tip of the Week

November 4, 2020 by Noelle Sim Leave a Comment

Tip 1

Want to make sure your hair color last longer? Here are a few steps that I recommend:

  • Make sure to always select a professional wetline. 
  • Check to ensure that the line you select is sulfate free. 
  • Healthy hair absorbs color more easily so make sure to pick a line that promotes hair health. (Hint: Look for the following ingredients: biotin, collagen, and B vitamins).
  • Prior to coloring your hair, make sure to use a clarifying shampoo on the hair to remove excess build up that may reduce the effects of the color application.
  • When discoloration of shampoo takes place and it no longer performs as it once did, it is time to remove it from your shelves.
  • Keep an eye on the expiration dates and know they are there for a reason.
  • If your scalp becomes itchy or irritated after using a shampoo, it has likely gone bad and it’s time to get rid of it.

Filed Under: Hair Care, Lifestyle, Tip Of The Week Tagged With: hair color, lifesytle, tip of the week

Must Do’s: Blow Drying Techniques

June 23, 2020 by Mia Torti Leave a Comment

Help your hair by implementing our must do’s into your blow drying routine! With these simple and effective techniques, you will be able to eliminate damage and accentuate the beauty of your tresses in no time.

Towel Dry Your Hair, First

Consider towel drying your hair (in a microfiber towel), then allow your hair to dry naturally. If you can, the sweet spot is getting your hair to be about 55-60% dry before using a blow dryer. 

Use a Heat Protectant

While a heat protectant can’t fully eliminate damage, it really helps. Apply the product and use your fingers or a comb to distribute evenly. 

Utilize the Diffuser

Using the diffuser attachment on your blow dryer helps to distribute the heat to reduce direct heat damage. 

Switch to Infrared Technology

My By Gina Productions line utilizes infrared technology that steams the hair rather than applying direct heat. It provides natural shine and locks in moisture. Click here to shop.

Filed Under: Hair Care, Lifestyle, Uncategorized Tagged With: blowdry, hair, haircare, howto, techniques, tips

7 Tips To Rid Your Hair of Split Ends

May 18, 2020 by Mia Torti Leave a Comment

Split ends can be such a drag. Here are our 7 tips to preventing and getting rid of your split ends for healthier, beautiful tresses!

Regular Trims

Get a trim every 4-6 weeks to minimize split ends.

When small white bulbs appear on the tips of your hair strands, the cuticle has been damaged.

That means it is time to take action and trim them off before they turn into split ends

Vitamin Packed Wet Line

Use a good daily wet line consisting of biotin, collagen and B Vitamins that will strengthen the hair reducing breakage.

We recommend the By Gina Pure BioGen Complex. Click here to shop!

Serum & Oils

If you can’t get a trim right away, use a serum or shine product to reduce the look of split ends.

Silk Pillowcases

Normal pillowcases are rough on the hair when you sleep as the fabric can create friction. This results in damaging your tresses and creating split ends. Say bye bye to your typical pillowcase and treat yourself to a silk one. Visit here to shop Celebrity’s favorite pillowcase line.

Microfiber Towel

Microfiber towels are superior to Terry when used around your household, the same is true for your hair. These specific towels are very gentle on the hair and have a better drying technology. Visit here to shop Gina’s top pick.

Avoid Hot Showers

Extremely hot water doesn’t allow the hair cuticles to work against the buildup that causes split ends. Turn that temperature down to let your hair do its job.

Infrared Technology

Infrared tools utilize steam rather than applying direct heat to the hair. Gina’s advanced technology will reduce the damage and provide natural shine and locks in moisture. Visit here to shop all of By Gina’s infrared tools.

Filed Under: Hair Care, Lifestyle Tagged With: beauty, hair, haircare, haircut, healthyhair, infrared, microfiber, splitends, technology, towel, trims, vitamins

Prevention.com – 12 Best Curling Irons for Perfect Waves, According to Hair Stylists featuring Gina Rivera

September 29, 2019 by coloursbygina Leave a Comment

Picking a curling iron can be slightly more complex than choosing a hair straightener. “Depending on the curl or wave you’re working with, you’ll need a different iron for each,” says celebrity hairstylist Paul Labrecque. “Barrel size and the iron’s shape are important to curl style, and the curling iron must have a thermostat control.” Whether you’re creating beachy waves, an unbraided look, or a marcel curl for your upcoming Halloween costume, here are the best curling irons to buy right now, according to hair stylists.

1 – BEST OVERALL – Curve Iron Curl

$199.00 SHOP NOW

Multiple hairstylists that I spoke with recommended this curling iron by GHD, which is why we ranked it as our best overall. Its ultra-zone technology guarantees even heat throughout the entire barrel, which produces curls in just 5-8 seconds. “The tool has an optimum curling temperature of 365 ºF which can create a great style,” says celebrity hair artist and CEO of Phenix Salons Gina Rivera. Even heat distribution is maintained for tri-zone heat regulation. The spring-activated level makes for ergonomic comfort and ease of styling.”

2 – BEST VALUE – INFINITIPRO Nano Tourmaline Ceramic Curling Iron

$19.99 (20% off) SHOP NOW

You read that correctly: This curling iron costs only $20, and you can get it at the drugstore! “This iron has been in my kit for years, and has held up to a ton of abuse,” says Hope Russo, a hairstylist in Mobile, Alabama. “I love the variable heat settings and the 30 second warm-up time. It’s a steal at the price.”

3 – EDITOR’S PICK – BodyWaver 1.75” Styling Iron for Waves and Loose Curls

$160.00 SHOP NOW

If you’re looking for thick, bouncy curves, this curling iron delivers thanks to its wide barrel. “I love this iron because I do not need to run it through several times to deliver just the right level of hold,” says Colour Collective Salon owner and hairstylist Cris Baadsgard. “I can also pass it through the hair quickly to help smooth down the frizzy bits while delivering nice volume and lift.” He says that the iron is well-priced for both professionals and his clients for at-home use. Plus, it heats up fast!

4 – BEST FOR BEGINNERS – Beachwaver Pro Curling Iron

$199.00 SHOP NOW

If you find yourself struggling to give yourself salon-style curls at home, then find an iron that curls your hair for you, like the Beachwaver Pro. “There is a tiny clip to put your hair in, then hit the button and it twists your hair around the barrel for you,” says Yasmeen Osman, a hair stylist and colorist on Newbury Street in Boston. “It lets you pick the left and right side of your face, so that your curls go in the right direction.”

5 – BEST FOR FINE HAIR – Excel Infrared Curling Iron

$104.00 SHOP NOW

This hair protectant curling iron features tourmaline and a rotating 1-in. barrel to produce curls without the damage. “It’s amazing because it utilizes nano smart infrared technology which acts to lock the moisture in,” Rivera says. “It’s basically like treating your hair to a spa treatment while you style it.”

6 – BEST FOR TRAVEL – Travel Curling Iron 1.25 Inch

$90.00 SHOP NOW

If you’re looking to produce tighter curls, this curling iron is for you. “The smaller barrel (1.25 inches) allows me to create tighter curls and the design does a brilliant job to control the iron so I can create cylindrical curls or just pretty curly waves,” Baadsgard says. “The tourmaline plates act similar to ceramic, but I notice a better shine on the hair when I use this tool.”

7 – Professional 24k Gold Curlbar

$99.99 SHOP NOW

Yes, some curling irons like this Hot Tools model are actually built like this, and yes, this design can help you create beautiful curls and waves. “The ergonomic design makes for a tool that works with you to create great curly and wavy styles, and the vibrating timer takes out the guesswork,” Russo says. “Hot Tools has been a hairdresser’s secret for years, loved for their durability and price point.”

8 – The Wrap Party Curling & Styling Wand

$165.00 SHOP NOW

Hot tools can be damaging to fine hair, but this styling wand by Drybar helps minimize breakage with infrared technology that heats hair from the inside out. The wand’s ionic technology seals the cuticle for less frizz, and it’s been Osman’s go-to for years. “I love that the barrel rotates and the clasp firmly grips at the hair, but is smooth and provides less damage to strands,” she says. “It clips onto fine hair and thick hair, it works on everyone!”

9 – Nano Titanium Spring Curling Iron

$49.99 SHOP NOW

Not only is this curling iron small and light enough to pack away for travel, but it also gives you lasting curls, says Ramona Villanueva, stylist at Boss Hair Group. “This iron heats up to 450 ºF, has an 8-foot long cord, and offers a mix of titanium and ceramic in the barrel for heat protection,” she says. “In addition, it has a booster heat button for hair that needs a bit more heat!”

10 – Pro Tools Express Gold Curl 1 Inch Barrel Curling Iron

$60.00 SHOP NOW

Another lightweight curling iron, the Pro Tools Express Gold Curl iron is great for bringing on trips because though small, it’s pretty powerful. “This rapidly-heating iron has gold plates to lock in moisture, creating shine,” Russo says. “Retailing at a mid-range price point, this is a solid option for every day home use.”

11 – BEST CURLING IRON FOR THICK HAIR – StyleCraft Style Stix XL Spring Curling Iron

$54.95 SHOP NOW

The extra-long barrel in this curling iron by StyleCraft Beauty is perfect for those with long, thick hair or wigs, says hairstylist Nicole Martinez. “As women are wearing their hair longer, this is the perfect iron because I can fit all the hair in it,” she says. “With other irons, I sometimes run out of space, but this iron can curl the longest of tresses.” It also has a tri-plex fusion that reduces frizz and enhances shine.

12 – Ion Titanium Platinum Pro Curling Iron

$45.64 SHOP NOW

Sometimes curling irons can get sticky with residue from hairspray and heat protectants, but the Ion Titanium Platinum Pro stays smooth, says Thom. “This iron delivers great heat and shine, and the curls last,” she says. “Also, it leaves neither residue from products, nor does its cord, incidentally, get tangled.”

Credit: https://www.prevention.com/beauty/g29236593/best-curling-irons/

Filed Under: Barber, Hair Care, Lifestyle, Stylist

The Fashion Spot: Seamlessly Transition Back to Your Natural Hair Color featuring Gina Rivera

August 21, 2019 by coloursbygina Leave a Comment

There are lots of breathtaking hair colors to have on your hair color bucket list, from blorange to milk tea. But balayage and bleaching can take their toll on our locks and our wallets. And even the best nourishing hair masks can only do so much. So there may come a time when you decide to go back to your roots in an effort to save your strands.

Growing out your hair color is easier said than done, even though some people are cool with embracing the rock ‘n’ roll vibes of visible roots. Truth is transitioning to your natural hair color is a process and it takes time. But that doesn’t mean you can’t have a little fun and experiment with new shades while growing out your hair color. So we asked hair care experts how to make the process as safe and painless as possible.

Do It The Right Way

You’ve been loving hair dye up to this point so don’t turn your back on it completely, especially when there are some clever and less damaging options. Larisa Love for Joico says transitioning back to your natural color all depends on your natural shade and current color. That’s where the pros come in. “There are different routes for everyone and it’s best to consult your colorist,” says Color Wow Global Creative Director Chris Appleton. “You want a look that can grow out well and you need to create that color while letting your natural [hair] grow out.”

Think Semi and Demi

L’Oréal Matrix Artistic Director Nick Stenson recommends trading in permanent color for semi- or demi-permanent options. Both formulations fade over time. (The difference is demi-permanent dyes require some kind of developing agent to make the color oxidize, whereas semi-permanent colors are “direct dyes” that can be used straight from the tube.) While permanent color grows out and leaves a telltale line of demarcation. Moroccanoil Artistic Director Kevin Hughes adds that true semi-permanent hair colors contain no ammonia and very low peroxide so they often make your hair feel healthier.

Another bonus is that you don’t have to match your natural color to your semi-permanent pick. Hughes says that it’s possible to choose a hair color that’s one shade lighter than your original color or one with a warmer tone. That way you can tone down the color you’re growing out, but the result isn’t one solid shade.

Hair glosses are another low-maintenance option. They add shine and bring life back to excessively dyed strands. Don’t know what semi-permanent color to pick? Manic Panic co-founders Tish and Snooky Bellomo suggest consulting a color wheel. Choose a hair color on the opposite side of the wheel from your present hue to neutralize said shade. For example, if your hair is dyed green, use a reddish-brown color, like auburn or chestnut, to help revert your tresses back to a natural brown tone. This concept may be more difficult, however, if you’re a natural blonde.

Highlights, Lowlights, and Ombre Are Your Friends

If your hair is dyed one shade, highlights can soften the line between your natural hair color and your dye of choice. Gina Rivera, founder and president of Phenix Salons, Inc., believes that balayage and ombre hair can be “extremely helpful” when transitioning colored locks back to their natural state. A stylist can strategically place highlights and lowlights so the color blends in a more natural way. And highlights can be toned to match new growth. Highlights can also give your tresses an all-over lighter look so the contrast of new growth and remaining colored hair is not as obvious. Stenson likes babylights (delicate, very fine highlights) for a natural, polished look.

But both Appleton and Love warn highlights and ombre aren’t the best options because they can grow out in an unnatural way. Still want something edgy? Shadow roots are a good option during the transitional phase.

Avoid Mistakes

Beware of box hair dye. Hughes cautions that box dyes might say that they are “semi-permanent,” but they usually contain more ammonia and tend to change your natural hair color. That means you’d have to continue dyeing your strands because it will always appear like they have roots (argh).

Rivera warns over-the-counter color removers can have disastrous results. They can damage your hair just like box dyes, making it take longer for you to achieve your regrowth goal.

Another mistake? Avoiding the salon. Rivera recommends visiting a professional stylist when going back to your roots. Professional colorists can blend your hair using the aforementioned color techniques, like highlights and ombre. Hughes points out that pros can create tone-on-tone lightening, leading to subtler results. Colorists can use weave and teasing techniques during the highlighting process to create a diffused effect with no hard lines. And salon color typically has an expensive-looking finish.

In terms of colors, Appleton warns picking the right tone and not going too dark on your ends is crucial. Professional colorists can help alleviate these issues and set up a strategy for the entire growing out phase.

Remember patience is a virtue. Justin Woods, color director at Shin Salon in Santa Monica, says trying to rush the transition process could potentially damage your hair beyond repair. Rivera agrees. “The biggest mistake people make is losing their patience and giving up too soon,” she says. “Going back to your natural color takes time and is a commitment. It’s important to remain focused on the end goal.”

Consider The Cut

Growing out dyed tresses can be awkward for all hair lengths. Appleton says short hair will begin to look blotchy and long hair can look too disconnected from its natural color. Making hair look intentional is key reports Stenson. That applies to both cut and color. He says that no matter your hair length, texture is good. Creating texture with layering and dimensional color makes the transition easy and produces the best-looking finish.

Those open to a total makeover can consider a chop. Rivera says the hardest but best way to return to your roots is to let your strands grow out and fade on their own. When your locks reach a certain point, go ahead and cut off the dyed sections. Think about it this way: it’s the perfect excuse to try that pixie cut or bob you’ve been admiring on Instagram.

Keep Your Hair Healthy

It’s not just about what your hair looks like. “Using good professional products is also imperative,” says Rivera. “It’s important that the hair is in optimal condition.” Look for shine-enhancing, vitamin-rich products and star ingredients like collagen and biotin. She recommends her own By Gina BioGen Complex range she describes as a “multivitamin for hair.”

Nourish your hair from the inside out with beauty supplements and from the outside in with leave-in treatments and masks, like Joico’s Defy Damage Protective Masque ($21.50). Hair products that strengthen the bonds broken during color services can also be game changers, like Color Wow Dream Cocktail ($18.75).

The Bellomo sisters recommend using a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner to maintain your hair color. And there are at-home color products that keep shades true and prevent brassy or orange tones, like Matrix Total Results Keep Me Vivid collection and Redken Color Extend Care range.

We know that color is the focus, but don’t forget to get regular trims to keep your lengths in tip-top shape. Woods says hair maintenance rules should still be followed, including any instructions from your hairstylist or colorist. And don’t forget to add a heat protectant spray to your arsenal so you can use hot tools or stay out in the sun without worrying about your locks getting damaged. You also want to make sure to rinse away any chlorine or salt water after a dip.

Credit: https://www.thefashionspot.com/beauty/841689-seamlessly-transition-back-to-your-natural-hair-color/#OVur16AB4RRLWuaY.99

Filed Under: Hair Care, Lifestyle

What’s The Rush? Take a Gradual Approach to Gray Hair, by Gina Rivera

August 15, 2019 by coloursbygina Leave a Comment

Our first gray hair is more a cause for curiosity than dread. We’re still pretty young and, after all, it’s just one gray hair. Twist it around a finger and “bye, bye!”

Finding several, though, evenly distributed among our roots is more than just a sign that it’s time to color our hair again. Suddenly, anxiety swoops and we’re on the watch. This obsession rarely produces good news, but most of us successfully fight the tide for decades.

Some women do gray hair beautifully, and maybe that’s a good place to start: Gray hair can be very, very attractive, especially when it is healthy, full and soft with a lovely sheen. Paired with a beautiful smile, healthy skin and confidence, that silvery-platinum hair becomes more about self-determination and sophistication than fading youth. We choose this color, like we choose anything.

“You can do this gradually, and that allows you some options, including the decision to turn back.”

Youth is wonderful, but as the saying goes, it is wasted on the young, because kids usually don’t know how best to live ‘the gift.’ Silver hair on the right woman can be about illumination, an understanding of what she wants and the ability to get it.

Having said that, most of us don’t feel comfortable with ‘graying’ hair, especially when we look and feel so young otherwise. Also, in the early stages of graying hair, it is incredibly easy to cover and so many of us color our hair regardless. “We’re just coloring our hair, right?” – rich, deep reds in the winter, warm, lighter shades in the summer, endless variations, streaks and feathers of fuchsia and blue which, by the way, can look just great in silver hair!

Then a day comes when we ask ourselves whether we should let our hair go gray. We wonder what we’d look like. We’re tired of the treatments and the cost. The color looks fantastic when it’s fresh but then the roots begin to show again. What to do?

Here is my advice: take it slowly. You can do this gradually, and that allows you some options, including the decision to turn back. To summarize: gradually ‘color’ your hair gray. Transition with shades of blond, light brown and highlights of bronze or platinum. This can easily take a year or more, and that’s fine.

If you’re the one behind the chair and your client raises the possibility, suggest the gradual change, reach for magazine pictures of women with variations of beautiful gray hair. As always, support your client, be a great listener. Be cautious of your own resistance. You may look at your client and think, “are you crazy?” But don’t say it – that’s probably more about you.

On the other hand, she may want you to say, “no, you’re beautiful this way.” Maybe your client is afraid that she’s about to fall off a cliff, and it’s not that way at all. Or maybe her decision is hinged entirely on something else in her life – so much of our self-image is expressed in our hair.

I say this often: a tremendous part of our business is about relationships. As always, be open to change.

Filed Under: Hair Care, Lifestyle

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