Lifestyle

Using This Type of Brush May Be Making You Lose Your Hair

March 9, 2022 by Noelle Sim Leave a Comment

A HAIRSTYLIST REVEALS THE BRUSH THAT COULD BE MAKING YOUR THINNING HAIR WORSE

It’s a fact: Hair thinning comes with aging. While your twenties and thirties may have been defined by thick, voluminous strands, some of that density may decrease as you blow out the birthday candles. Of course, this isn’t the worst thing in the world—it’s just one of the many ways our bodies change as we enter our golden years. But our hair can be a part of how we see ourselves, and losing it may be harder for some than others. Luckily, there are ways to minimize hair thinning, including using the proper tools to care for it. Read on to find out what you should avoid doing in your beauty routine if you’re concerned about thinning hair.

If your hair is thinning, don’t use a tightly bristled brush.

Not all hairbrushes are created equal—especially when you’re trying to be gentle with your strands. Tightly bristled brushes can pull on the hair due to rough edges and cause additional breakage, especially when the hair is wet. “It’s very important to use a good wet brush after cleansing the hair,” says Gina Rivera, celebrity stylist and founder of Phenix Salon Suites. Wet brushes—which can be used on dry hair as well—typically have more widely spread teeth that are less likely to snag on your strands.

While you’re editing down your hairbrush collection, this goes for boar bristle brushes as well. These tightly bristled brushes are best reserved for thick or coarse hair textures, as they can damage thin strands.

Consider that there could be health factors at play.

Not all hair thinning is the result of a haircare mistake. According to Andrea Claire, a licensed hairstylist, there could be other issues at play. When one of her clients mentions hair loss, she asks them to consider the following common culprits: new hair products or chemical services, big life changes or stress, medications, changes in diet, and simply, age.

She also asks them to assess the volume of hair loss. Losing between 50 to 100 strands throughout the day is totally normal, according to the American Academy of Dermatologists (AAD). But Claires says “if you glide your fingers through your hair and 20-plus strands of hair come out, then further investigation may be required.” In other words, you’ll want to consult your GP or a dermatologist.

You already know that using heat on your hair can lead to damage. But did you know the temperature of that heat also has an impact? “Make sure that when using styling tools the settings are on low or cool heat to avoid doing damage to the hair that would cause it to break off,” says Rivera. A quality heat protectant can also work wonders.

Skip a wash day.

Once you rule out a medical issue, you can make other modifications to your hair care routine to prevent thinning. One of the most effective ones? Skipping a wash day. “Avoid shampooing daily which can cause stress onto your follicles,” says Claire.

To make sure each wash packs a punch, invest in quality shampoos and conditioners that your stylist recommends for your specific hair type. You can also coat strands with a leave-in conditioner to help moisturize and strengthen the hair shaft. “Iles Formula Finishing Serum and Color Wow’s Dream Cocktail are my new jams,” says Claire.

Turn down the heat.

If that’s not possible with your current ‘do, try opting for a cut that minimizes your need for hot tools. “A textured bob can often be styled by simply towel drying and using product to emphasize waves and curls,” says Rivera. “This omits additional heat exposure that is often required for styling many looks.”

Even if you’re not open to a dramatic chop, a hairstylist can guide you in building a hair care routine that will give you the strands of your dreams.

Credit to: Juliana LaBianca for bestlifeonline.com

Parade-Worthy Mardi Gras Hair and Makeup Ideas

March 9, 2022 by Noelle Sim Leave a Comment

In New Orleans, parade season isn’t so much a season as a way of life. It reaches its pinnacle every year on the most famous Tuesday of all: Mardi Gras.

Over a million people travel to the Big Easy for Fat Tuesday festivities, each more adorned than the next. In an event where more is more, the goal is to stand out among the costumed crowd.

Whether you’re planning to camp out on Bourbon Street all day and night or have your own at-home festivities, you’re going to need to look the part. Try these Mardi Gras makeup looks and hairstyles to bring in all the beads!

Colors of Mardi Gras

Since 1892, purple, gold, and green have been the festival’s official colors. But what are the Mardi Gras color meanings? According to Booksy, “purple was chosen to represent justice, green to represent faith, and gold to represent power.”

You’re by no means limited to these three. You can really incorporate any color under the sun or choose to deck yourself out in a single color (purple body paint, anyone?)

Need some inspiration? These Mardi Gras makeup looks and Mardi Gras hairstyles are sure to laissez les bon temps rouler!

Mardi gras makeup ideas

Some years you want to pull out all the stops. Others, it may just be you, a bowl of gumbo and some king cake. These looks can help you achieve either.

For going all out:

Unless you’re wearing a mask, full face paint is the way to go. Some parade-goers even choose to paint their entire body.

To ensure your masterpiece stays in place, start with a quality primer. Make sure to sponge it over your eyelids and lips, too. You can either start with white as your base, adding color on top, or layer your purples, golds, and greens. Whatever you do, don’t forget the glitter. You can use loose glitter while the rest of your facepaint is still wet, or buy glitter that’s been pressed into a gel.

For a more subtle Mardi Gras:

(Photo courtesy of @mayrismakeup Instagram)

If you don’t want to spend hours scrubbing face or body paint off you in the shower, go for something a little more subdued. Just doing your eyes or lips can be a good compromise. This is a great example of just how far a little eyeshadow and sparkly eyeliner can go.

Mardi gras hair

The same goes for hair. You may want to book with a hairstylist well in advance of the big parade to step up your ‘do. Other times, a “Get it Girl” ponytail is just what your Krewe ordered.

For going all out:

Why not wig out?! It’s the perfect time to be someone else (or at least a more extreme version of yourself). The more outlandish your coiff, the more you’ll fit in.

Dana C. Johnson, a veteran hairdresser with more than 20 years of experience, recently told Allure, “The most unique hairstyle I have seen for Mardi Gras was a bob cut, layered in Mardi Gras colors and finished with sparkling glitter. That style won my favorite unique hairstyle of past Mardi Gras.” Something worth considering if you want to showcase your own tresses in a big way.

For a more subtle Mardi Gras:

Ponytails never fail at Mardi Gras. And braids are even better. Whether you choose to weave in one of the three Mardi Gras colors or finish the look with some glitter hairspray, they’re a flawless way to celebrate without worrying about your hair smelling after the parade.

Mardi Gras FAQ

What to wear to a mardi gras themed party?

There’s no such thing as too much. Masks are common additions, as are head dresses, umbrellas, feathers, beads, and glitter. So long as you’re larger than life and with at least one of the preferred colors, you’re ready to celebrate!

How do you do eye shadow for Mardi Gras?

Smokey eyes, glitter eyes, and traditional, multi-color purple, green, and gold are always on point for mardi gras makeup. Start by applying a primer. New Orleans is a humid place, so you’ll need it to keep everything in place. Next, apply the base color to your lids. Usually that’s the lightest one. The darkest color should go on next, at the crease of your lid. Don’t be afraid to do a pop of color along your bottom lid and be sure to finish the look off with some over the top false eye lashes!

What to wear to mardi gras?

What to bring to mardi gras?

Whatever you do, don’t forget to pack water. The streets will be packed and so will the bodegas. Snacks, umbrellas, hand sanitizer, cash, a portable phone charger, and bag for your beads are also highly recommended.

Intimidated at the thought of doing your own Mardi Gras hair or makeup? Let the professionals step in. So long as you come in with a vision and a picture, they can make it parade-worthy!

Gina Rivera

Beauty Icon and Expert

Gina Rivera skyrocketed to success when the company she founded in 2007, Phenix Salon Suites, became the fastest-growing salon suite company in the beauty industry. With more than 300 locations nationally and international expansion occurring in the UK, Entrepreneur Magazine named Phenix Salon Suites a Top 500 Franchise list seven years running.

Should You Get Balayage or Foil Highlights?

March 7, 2022 by Noelle Sim Leave a Comment

When it’s time to get a few highlights in your hair, you have a choice between traditional foil highlights and balayage (also known as hair painting). There’s a difference between the two techniques and each has its advantages, depending on the look you’re going for. But you’re in luck, as many stylists and colorists are skilled in both techniques and can help you decide which will achieve your desired look. Still need help deciding between the two? We’re breaking down the details on foil highlights versus balayage, with tips from the experts.

MEET THE EXPERT

Gina Rivera is the founder of Phenix Salon Suites. She is also the creator of Colours by Gina and the By Gina hair product line.
Reece Walker is a bicoastal colorist, stylist, and hair extension expert for his celebrity clientele like Victoria Beckham, Miranda Kerr, and Caroline Vreeland.

What is Balayage?

Balayage Blonde Seamless — @STEPHENGARRISON

Originating from the French word meaning “to sweep,” balayage is a hair color technique where a lightening solution is hand-painted on the surface of random portions of hair. According to Walker, balayage is a freehand technique, not a look. “Typically, balayage colors are shades that are slightly lighter than your base color and the color is applied to create a more natural look,” adds Rivera. “The end goal is to provide a lightened look while creating depth and dimension in a way that appears to be natural.

What Are Highlights?

30 Ideas for Brown Hair With Blonde Highlights From Celebs — GETTY IMAGES

Highlights, on the other hand, are more traditional and generally done using foil. “Hair highlighting is changing the hair color, using a lightener or hair color to lift the level or brightness of the hair strands,” says Rivera, noting that there are four basic types of highlight application, which include foil highlights, hair painting, frosting, and chunking.

What Are Babylights?

Babylights are very subtle and lightly applied highlights that are meant to look natural much like a child’s hair, hence the name. Since they are done so delicately, babylights tend to look best on those with finer hair.

Highlights vs. Balayage: What’s the Difference?

It’s very likely that your colorist will recommend highlight foils if you want a big color shift. Foils tend to work best when taking dark hair four or more shades lighter. The same is true if you want hair that has a lot of contrast with both highlights and lowlights or prefer an even distribution of color.

“Highlights are often placed much closer to the scalp and applied in specific sections while the balayage process includes a graduated painting the color onto the hair in random sections,” says Rivera.

If you are looking to add non-uniform chunks or sweeps of color, balayage is a better option. The method offers your stylist more freedom to add color that fits and flatters your cut, face shape, and, of course, your personal style. So, if you have more of a carefree attitude, you can give your colorist the opportunity to stretch their artistic muscles with balayage.

Balayage is also great for face-framing highlights. Where foils often target the full shaft of the hair, including the roots, balayage is frequently used to highlight from mid-length to ends, leaving a more natural root.

Which Is Better For Your Hair?

While the method of color application will largely rely on the results that a person is attempting to achieve, there are some thoughts to take into consideration. “How dramatic you want the look to be, the hair texture, and the length of the hair are some things to consider,’ says Rivera. “Those with longer hair may opt more towards balayage as the length will allow for easier sweeping on of the color. While those with shorter hair may opt for a highlight as the process allows for the color to be applied much closer to the scalp.”

Balayage is also a gentle, subtle way to cover grays because the stylist can paint just the gray strands rather than having to color your entire head. Likewise, if you’re in a transition phase and want to grow out your roots without making it obvious, balayage can be a natural-looking and temporary solution. For instance, they may suggest giving you just as many highlights as they would with foils, or they may suggest a gentle sun-kissed look with just a few natural streaks here and there.

“Balayage is great for people wanting a soft grow out and warmer tones,” says Walker.

Some stylists, Walker included, even use a combination of balayage and foils. One technique known as “American tailoring” begins with foils after which balayage highlights are painted in between the new highlights to soften and blend the color. Another popular approach is “foilyage,” and it’s just the opposite: Starting with painted color and finishing up with foil accents.

Maintaining Balayage

If you prefer to avoid the maintenance of getting your hair colored every six to eight weeks, balayage may be a better match for your lifestyle. The technique is less obvious and allows you to go longer between salon visits—even just three to four times a year—and it grows out beautifully.

“Because balayage is freehand, it’s not for someone who likes to have their roots touched up every week,” says Walker. “I like to have enough regrowth to work with ideally four months-worth. Anything sooner than three months, in my opinion, causes too much breakage from the overlapping of color.”

To maintain balayage, Rivera recommends using a sulfate-free wet line of shampoo and conditioner. “I recommend Pure BioGen Complex ($16) because it’s packed with biotin, collagen, and B Vitamins, which are designed to improve hair and scalp health,” she says.

Prevent your balayage from looking brassy by using a purple or blue shampoo once or twice a week.

Maintaining Highlights

Foil highlights have an obvious demarcation, so new growth is also more noticeable. Again, Rivera recommends using a sulfate-free wet-line of shampoo and conditioner, and to reduce the heat slightly when washing to extend color. “Keep the color fresh by periodically doing a clarifying treatment,” she recommends.

For his blonde clients, Walker uses foil highlights as he “has more control and can lift the hair to that creamy very light blonde that girls want without overlapping.”

“To freshen up the blonde ends that have gotten a little dull over time, I like to balayage/tip-out the ends while my foils are processing,”

Consider the Look You’re Going For

All in all, each highlighting method creates a different look. For a natural, sun-swept look, balayage highlights are the perfect option. If you prefer uniform highlighted strands from root to ends throughout your hair, foils are your best bet. That being said, you do have the option to get both at the same time.

“Balayage is great for a low maintenance highlight, adding beautiful rich and warmer tones to the hair,” says Walker. “Foils are for the girls who love to have very little regrowth and like their hair nice and light.”

Go With More Than One Color

You’ve probably noticed that natural hair colors aren’t a single shade and that each strand is a different color. You can achieve similar diversity when getting either balayage or foils by asking your stylist to use more than one color for highlights that look even more natural.

You can also consider getting lowlights—a color that’s about two shades darker than your highlights. When lowlights are woven into the hair, they add dimension and depth for some fabulous-looking locks.

Refrain from washing your hair daily to maintain the color for longer, and wear a hat to protect from the sun fading the color.

The Final Takeaway

While some stylists use the two techniques together, determining if you are best suited for highlights or balayage is up to you. However, taking into account your hair color, length, texture, and lifestyle could help make your decision a bit easier before you hop in the chair.

Credit to: Julyne Derrick for BYRDIE

Microneedling: Benefits, Facts and FAQs

March 2, 2022 by Noelle Sim Leave a Comment

The benefits of microneedling are more than just skin deep. This collagen boosting, wrinkle reducing needle facial treatment is a favorite among dermatologists and skin enthusiasts alike.

The multi-purpose skin saver has been around since the mid-90s, but lately, it’s all anyone is talking about. If you follow any beauty bloggers or social media (sk)influencers, you’ve probably seen some posts about the (mostly) painless procedure.

Today, we’re here to needle you with questions and answers about what microneedling is and what microneedling does for your skin.

How Does Microneedling Work?

So what is microneedling anyway? The procedure, also known as collagen induction therapy, is the process of using a small mechanical device or handheld dermaroller filled with very fine needles to create micro punctures in the skin.

Still wondering how microneedling works to keep you looking younger? The tiny “injuries” created from the needles are nothing more than pinpricks on the skin’s surface. Yet they suggest your skin produce more collagen and elastin to heal the “wound”. Thus, more youthful bouncy skin.

Microneedling side effects are practically non-existent, the process can be used all over the body, results start appearing overnight and things just keep getting better overtime.

So what’s the catch? Is microneedling safe? Does microneedling work? And, most importantly, does it hurt?!

Rapid fire: yes, yes, and no! Microneedling is totally safe, it works wonders, and is virtually painless (despite the blood you may see in YouTube videos). If you can handle lightly pressing your nails into the backs of your hands, you can definitely handle microneedling.

The price of these face needling treatments depends on your esthetician. At $100-700 per appointment, the range is wide with most people paying in the $250-300 region.

Benefits of Microneedling

Microneedling treatments can target a number of areas from forehead “elevens” and smile lines to balding or scarred areas of the body.

It’s easier to talk about what microneedling doesn’t do than to answer what is microneedling good for. Microneedling benefits include:

Scar fading
Hair regrowth
Diminished acne marks
Less lines and wrinkles
Cellulite reduction
Tightened skin

Is microneedling effective? You bet it is. The results speak for themselves. In a microneedling before and after study performed in 2008, participants showed an impressive 400% jump in collagen and elastin after just four sessions completed every other month for six months.

Side Effects and Risks of Microneedling

The side effects of microneedling are few and far between. However, you know what they say about too much of a good thing.

Skin treatment with needles requires time to heal between sessions. Engage in the practice too frequently and you risk busted capillaries and a fake plasticy texture. Best to keep treatments to about once a month and give your skin a complete recovery between needle treatments for your face.

If you have a serious skin condition like eczema, severe acne, or rosacea, best to tread lightly and only engage in microneedling facials after you’ve consulted with a trained professional. Women who are pregnant or who are breastfeeding are also discouraged from microneedling as your body’s healing processes are usually slower during this special time.

Frequently Asked Questions About Microneedling

Before you let a trained professional take something small and sharp to your face, you probably want to be certain about the process. During your consultation, leave no needle unturned. The more questions you ask, the more comfortable you’ll be going into it.

Here are some microneedling FAQs we hear a lot:

Can microneedling ruin your skin?

Minor swelling and mild irritation are semi-common after a microneedling session, but you’re very unlikely to permanently damage your skin so long as you’re working with a trained professional.

Is microneedling better than Botox? Or can it replace Botox?

Many people like to use these two in tandem. Where microneedling focuses on skin’s surface and deeper layers beneath, Botox has longer term effects that can work to prevent wrinkles before they occur. Talk to your dermatologist or esthetician to find out what’s right for your skin.

Does microneedling make you age faster?

So long as you’re not engaging in treatments too frequently or putting too much pressure on your dermaroller, the collagen and elastin produced from microneedling will actually make you appear as though you’re aging in reverse!

Are microneedling results permanent?

Results increase steadily for a few weeks after your treatment, but you’ll need to have regular sessions to experience the full benefits over a long period of time.

Don’t have a microneedling estheticianpicked out yet? Sign up for Gina’s Platform to find the best-rated skin experts in your area.

If a needle procedure for your face sounds slightly intimidating, you’re not alone. Once you understand what microneedling does, how painless it can be, and the unbelievable benefits of microneedling, all that’s left is to experience it for your self. Ready to see firsthand what microneedling can help with? Find a vetted, microneedling professional from our extensive network right here!

Gina Rivera

Beauty Icon and Expert

Cute Hairstyles for Women Over 40 – 2022 Guide for Women

March 1, 2022 by Noelle Sim Leave a Comment

Finding a good haircut is like finding the fountain of youth. That’s especially true of hair over 40. Few features have more transformative power than your locks. The right style is an essential part of your look, and let’s face it, a lot cheaper than plastic surgery!

Don’t worry though. There are plenty of youthful haircuts for those over 40 to choose from. Whether you’re after something edgy or sophisticated, the best hairdressers can help you pick the best age 40 hairstyles for your face shape and lifestyle.

A few minutes in the chair can change your life and even a decision as simple as whether or not to get bangs can make you look 10 years younger (or older if you’re not careful). With that in mind, we’ve amassed the best hairstyles for women over 40 based on hair trends in 2022.

The Classic Bob

Consider this one of the go-to hairstyles for women over 40. No matter your face shape, a classic bob or lob (long bob) is a safe, flattering bet. The trick here is to make sure your hairdresser incorporates some longer layers. It’s the best way to pump up the volume. Since harsh, blunt hairstyles in your 40s can make your locks look limp, you want to make sure they remove the weight for a light, airy, youthful feel.

Bangs

Not all bangs work when talking about hair for women over 40. In fact, some can actually make you look :: whispers :: older. If the bangs are too blunt across the brow, they can often draw attention to your eyes – and more specifically, your eye wrinkles. Instead, a feathery curtain bang or set of swoopy side bangs can frame and soften your face in a sweet and sophisticated way. They’re also a great example of stylish hair for over 40 that universally works for most face shapes. They’re also easy to care for and grow out (bonus!).

The Pixie

Definitively one of the cutest hairstyles for women over 40, the pixie cut has long been a favorite of chic ladies entering the best years of their lives. If you’re looking for a way to highlight your eyes, cheekbones, or any other favorite facial features, this is it! It’s the ideal choice when trying to diffuse fine lines as it draws the attention up to your trendy tresses. It really is a must-try at some point in your life. You don’t even know the meaning of easy and freeing until you’ve tried a pixie cut.

The Short Shag

You’ve heard us rave about shag haircuts before. Well, that wasn’t just the quarantine talking. The volume you get from a short shag alone offers unbeatable fullness and movement, even if your hair is thin or thinning. (Don’t worry. That happens naturally as hair ages.) It’s the queen of the hair trends for women over 40, and not just because most of us are going out less. This tousled, multi-dimensional favorite has a carefree, chic feel that will make you feel proud of your age.

Asymmetrical Cuts

Yes, edgy hairstyles for women in their 40s definitely exist. Case in point: the asymmetrical cut. We love it for its charisma and uniqueness. It’s also super versatile. Go with layers at varied lengths and add some extra interest or you can go the classic route and sport pure sophistication. Either way you slice it (pun intended) longer on one side and shorter on the other look is trendy in the best way possible. The cut also has all the hallmarks of a pixie (read: feature popping and line softening).

Hairstyle Tips For Women Over 40

In general, make sure you always consult with your stylist to determine the best cut or style for face shape and lifestyle. ⁠You don’t want to get a chop that makes your face look worn or that’s more upkeep than you’re ready to commit to.

You’ll also want to make sure you have a quality, light-weight mousse or gel on hand. Applying it to the crown of your head and fluffing with a blowdryer creates a youthful, tousled look, everytime. ⁠

Cute Hairstyles Over 40 FAQ

We get these a lot, so let’s set the record right once and for all.

Does long hair make you look older?

Texture more than length can make you appear slightly older. When searching for hairstyles for ladies over 40, look for ones that are textured or wavy for a youthful feel.

Should you go darker or lighter with hair color as you age?

If you want to appear younger, stay away from shades that can look grey. Platinum blondes count, too! However, if you are going grey, be aware it could be more difficult to cover over. But not impossible! Talk to your hairdresser to see about color correction or grey coverage color options and pricing.

At what age should a woman stop wearing long hair?

To that we say, your hair, your choice. There are cute hairstyles for women over 40 at all lengths. If you’re unsure, schedule a consultation with your hair stylist.

At what age should a woman cut her long hair?

Again, that’s really a personal choice. In general, we say if you’re ready to make a change in your life, short hair is often the gateway.

Picking a signature hairstyle when you’re over 40 doesn’t have to be a guessing game. Find a professional to help you choose the one that will make you look and feel young at heart!

Gina Rivera

Beauty Icon and Expert

Stylists Agree: These Are The Sexiest Short Haircuts For Women Over 40

February 15, 2022 by Noelle Sim Leave a Comment

As we age, many of us think we have to stick to a mature, short haircut, but turning 40 does not have to mean playing it safe! Rocking your ageless beauty is possible with experimentation and adventure, and what better way to mix things up than hitting the salon for a new haircut?

We spoke with Gina Rivera, celebrity hairstylist and Founder of Phenix Salon Suites for three sexy haircuts you can definitely pull off at any age, and that women over 40 can always rely on for timeless, chic and effortless energy.

Flat, lifeless hair be gone— read on for stylist tips for each kind of cut, and why short hair doesn’t have to be boring (and definitely isn’t with these styles!)

1. Textured Bob

Fun, flirty and full of movement, this hairstyle centers around layers and texture to prevent a dull and flat look. It’s timeless and as seen here on Emma Stone, effortlessly glamorous and can be parted in the middle or side depending on your face shape and what works for you.

“A textured bob is always a terrific youthful look,” says Rivera. Texturizing, she says, provides a fuller look with more volume, “which tends to be youthful.” In addition, removing weight and creating movement “always increases the appearance of youthfulness,” she adds.

2. Trendy Pixie Cut

This haircut allows full, undivided attention to your beautiful face! With lots of layers, this style also provides its wearer with skyrocketing volume and its youthful exuberance never goes out of style, as seen here on Halle Berry, who often rocks this look as her iconic go-to.

“A pixie is such a fun look for aging beauties,” Rivera says. “The pixie is very stylish and trendy which can create a youthful feel in itself.”

3. Layered Shag

This cut is the best of both worlds— it’s not *too* short if you’re not quite ready for a big chop, but it still provides volume and a punky edge from the collarbone length and up. Paired with sultry, eyebrow-grazing fringe like here on Alexa Chung, the shag has been a cool and signature look for many rock stars and beyond since its debut in the 1970s.

“Face-framing cuts like the shag also work well for taking years off,” adds Rivera. “The shag is a great style for softening features because it frames and highlights your face.”

Overall, there are so many great haircuts for women over 40 that prove sexiness and beauty are truly ageless and that getting older (despite what anyone or society says) means you can still experiment and mix things up for as long as you wish to! These cuts are undeniably classic, and your stylist can help shape them for your face and hair type.

To read the full article, please click here.

Credit to: Marissa Matozzo