Hair and Make-up Q&A

How can I lighten the color of my body hair?

There are many products on the market that are designed to lighten and bleach facial and body hair in women. I recommend you visit your local beauty supply store and look for products from companies, such as VEET and NAIR, which are well-known and well-reputed companies. There may be other products available, and you can probably as the management of the store about any product you don’t recognize. What you want is a hair bleaching cream for use on the skin. Be sure to test a spot on your skin in an inconspicuous place before using the product, just to ensure that you don’t have a bad reaction to the chemicals. Always follow the package instructions carefully as some of these products come unmixed and need to be mixed carefully for full effectiveness.

As for the “home remedies” route, lemon juice and brown-bottle peroxide will work to some extent, but these are generally not strong enough to give the kind of results you may be looking for. As for using almond paste or cucumber juice, I can say that these will definitely give you soft skin (cucumber juice makes a great anti-oxidant hydrator and anti-inflammatory), but I don’t know that they will do much of anything to lighten body hair’s color.

How do I go about removing hairline hairs? Is there a specialist that can do this?

The removal of unwanted hairs is managed in similar ways, regardless of their placement. It all depends on the level of permanency you desire. Clipping and shaving, depilatory creams, and waxing methods will all allow you to remove unwanted hair from targeted areas, but these are only temporary solutions. Hair removed with these methods can begin to become visible again in days or weeks depending on the method chosen and the depth at which the hair is removed. For more permanent hair removal, you would need to resort to electrolysis or laser hair removal, which while claiming “permanent” hair removal, often require multiple applications before the effects become “permanent”. These methods require the services of trained and licensed technicians, and I would recommend going through your doctor or dermatologist for a referral to ensure you get serviced by a qualified individual.The aim with these “permanent” methods is to destroy the follicle that produces the hair in the unwanted area. Electrolysis uses an electrical charge conducted along the hair shaft to burn the follicle, while the laser hair removal accomplishes the same goal using pulses of laser light. The methods can be expensive, not only in their per session cost, but also in the fact that multiple sessions are often required for lasting results. These services are also unlikely to be covered by any insurance plan, since they are primarily elective, cosmetic procedures. You are going to want to review your personal situation and evaluate what is the best option for you. Speak with a doctor for information on the costs involved in the permanent services, and ask for a frank estimate on the likely overall cost before you commit to anything.

Why do I find black coarse, thick hair among my brown strands?

It is possible that these hairs are simply part of your genetic makeup. In this case, you have a few options. One is to be sure to condition the hair deeply to make sure the hair is a soft as possible, and help these hairs blend more readily with the other hair of your head. In some cases, you may want to use a chemical texture service (perm, body wave, or thio-straightening) to reconfigure the hair into a uniform wave pattern and texture. If the color becomes an issue, you can always use a color process to re-color your hair to an approximation of your natural color or perhaps a shade lighter. Hormonal imbalance, endocrine imbalance, medications and birth control pills all can contribute to the development of unusual hair formations. I suggest examining your scalp closely for signs of moles or freckling that would indicate skin abnormalities that would affect the follicles in your scalp. If you think any of these possible causes apply to you, please see your doctor immediately to make sure there is no medical cause for the hair growth.

If I remove white hairs with tweezers, will they re-grow again?

When plucking hairs, you have to pull the hair out and remove the entire root, or enough of it to sufficiently damage the follicle to prevent it from being able to produce hair. This is true regardless of the pigmentation of the hair in question: black, blonde, or white. If you pluck the hair and it doesn’t sufficiently damage the follicle/root then it will re-grow at the normal growth rate for your hair. The average person’s hair grows at a rate of ½ per month, so you would probably begin to see a reemergence of the hair after about a week.

Is hair growth something that is influences by your genes?

Hair growth can be hard to diagnose as “abnormal” when it concerns members of certain races and ethnic backgrounds. Generally, individuals of Mediterranean, South and Central American, and Indonesian descent (among others) sometimes show more body hair (and thicker occurrences of such) than their Eastern European and Nordic counterparts. It is genetic, so it is related to both your ancestry and your immediate parentage.

Is there a way to remove a widows peak?

The first thing I would recommend for dealing with an unwanted widow’s peak is to try a hairstyle that has bangs. A triangular fringe area, or in consideration of your widow’s peak diamond-shaped, should work well for you. A fringe (or bangs) can be incorporated into any style, and would eliminate the need to use a method for removal of the hair in the widow’s peak.

I hesitate to advice removing a widow’s peak, because unless you use electrolysis or laser hair removal (which can take several repetitions of the procedures for complete success) you are looking at starting a process that will need to be maintained. If you’re intent on removing the widow’s peak, you might want to consider getting an edger or beard trimmer which will allow you to clipper the hair off to a very short length and use a bleaching cream on the stubble to make it less visible. The edger/beard trimmer gives you much better control for reshaping the hairline to the way you want it. There’s more likelihood of mishap and removing more hair than intended if you use shaving, waxing or depilatory creams. The bleaching cream used after clippering the hair to scalp length allows you to have extra time in between clippering because the stubble will be less noticeable.

I heard of hair removal spray and was wondering if it is 100% safe?

Hair removal sprays are called depilatories. Depilatories can be found as creams, lotions, gels, foams or sprays and work by dissolving the hair to which it is applied. For many women it is the easiest and most comfortable method for removing unwanted hair. However, depilatories work with varying levels of effectiveness depending on the texture of the hair to be removed. Some women find that the hair on their legs (and other areas) is too thick or coarse to be dissolved easily and that the depilatories don’t work as well for them. There is also the fact that some people have very sensitive skin and these depilatories can be irritating, since they are effectively caustic formulas. For some women, even the mildest depilatory is like applying acid directly to the skin. The choice to use a method of hair removal is based entirely on the person’s preferences and the effectiveness of the method on their hair type. Since depilatory sprays don’t work equally well for all women, there are still women who will need to have some other means to remove unwanted hair.

What can I do with my hairline when my hair is pulled back?

The best way to deal with these hairs is to use a strong hold styling gel or pomade (wax-based hair product) and a fine tooth comb or brush to smooth them back with the rest of the hair. In some cases, you can use a bit of hairspray on the hair when it’s dry to smooth them into place as well. If the hairs are long enough to be smoothed into the rest of your hair, this is usually the preferable option. You may need to use extra style product to smooth them or keep product with you for touch-ups during the day. Pomade is exceptionally portable for this purpose.

How can I avoid getting a rash when I shave under my chin?

Typically, treating razor bumps and barber’s rash involves letting the hair grow for 3-4 weeks without shaving to allow the hair to grow enough to spring out of the follicle, and allow the follicle to heal. Some people find that a mild, topical corticosteroid cream helps with inflammation and pain. Washing the area with antibacterial cleanser can also help to reduce bacteria. In severe cases, your doctor may prescribe medication or antibiotics. Razor bumps tend to be more commonly caused by attempts to achieve a much closer shave, such as using multi-bladed razors, pulling the skin taut and shaving against the growth direction of the hair. Some tips for preventing these reactions include: use warm water to soften the skin and hairs before shaving, or shave right after you shower, apply your shaving cream in the opposite direction of hair growth, moisturizing your skin as well as hair, shave the easier areas first – jaw line, cheeks, and neck, shave in the direction of hair growth and do not stretch the skin while shaving, use a single-bladed razor and rinse it thoroughly after each pass, then replace the blade (or disposable razor) at least once a week or as often as necessary, use an electric razor to help prevent razor bumps. Take care to treat the razor bumps you have already while avoiding others to prevent infection and a worsening of the skin’s condition. If the skin seems to become more irritated see your doctor for additional treatment. One of the things all young men (and women) must learn is how to care for “their skin’s” particular needs in hair removal and shaving.

Color fades quickly.

Hair color fading too quickly is a huge hair challenge for many women.  Especially brilliant brunettes and fiery red heads.  To ensure that great hair color stays vibrant until your next salon visit you must invest in some professional hair care products.  Your stylist should suggest the ones that are right for your hair type and safe on color.  Consider products like the insurance policy on your hair color…

Dandruff or dry hair and scalp.

If you suffer from dandruff you must use a medicated shampoo and conditioner that is meant to treat dandruff.  You may not have to use it every day, but definitely incorporate it into your styling regime several times a week.  It would be good to alternate a dandruff shampoo with one that replenishes hair with moisture.  Also remember to massage the scalp with your fingertips for several minutes when shampooing and conditioning.  This will release dry skin, dirt, or anything directly on the scalp.

Unmanageable, unruly, fizzy hair.

On humid days you know your hair is going to get frizzy choose to style it up or in a ponytail. Use products such as smoothing serums, pomades, etc when blow-drying. Take extra time to blow dry the hair straight because it will really seal the cuticle and keep the hair shaft smoother longer. Use a nozzle on your blow dryer, which will direct the heat more specifically to the section of hair.

Oily hair and scalp

It may be a bummer, but you must wash the hair everyday to control the over excessive oil glands in the scalp. If you can’t and you are desperate, you can sprinkle a little bit of baby powder on the roots to absorb the moisture. And you may hate the oiliness of your hair but take advantage of it because these are essential oils from the body that are actually good for the hair.

Lifeless, fine, and flat hair

Choose products that promote volume and thickness. A mousse, thickening gels or a root lifter sprayed at the root before blow-drying the hair is key. Blow drying the hair upside down and waiting till it has cooled down to flip up will make lifeless hair look full of volume.  Choose parting the hair to the side rather than in the middle because this makes the illusion of fuller hair. Multi-highlighted hair will create dimension and make the hair look fuller. Round brushing the hair promote volume and thickness. And one of my favorite tricks is using Velcro rollers around the crown to add volume.

What do you do when you get a bad hair cut/color?

I had a bad haircut/color… what do I do???
This is an unfortunate situation.  You could let it grow out and just be patient. You could cut it shorter to remove some of the unwanted color.  A bad color will be considered a corrective color in a salon and may be costly, but it may be worth it.  A bad cut may just need to be grown out.  You may have to take it a little shorter than you wish to fix the haircut.  Or you could always change the color or texture to take away from the bad haircut.  Bottom line is before you go into the salon make sure you do a complete consultation and great communication.

Time management.

If you are not the kind of person that has a lot of extra time in the morning communication is key! You need to let your stylist know this before you began a new haircut or color. There are specific styles out there that don’t require much to maintain and still look like you took all day.

Damaged hair.

For the most part, damaged hair happens through bleaching the hair and over processing the hair. However, those of you that are blonde know it is an addiction that will never be tamed! In this case products are very important. The hair needs food and water, which is stripped out of the hair during the chemical process. The hair and food that hair need are proteins and moisture which many shampoo and conditioners out on the market have. Also take about 30 minutes several days a week to apply a deep conditioning hair mask. If the hair is that damaged it is worth the extra loving care so slap it on during your favorite TV show.

Can’t recreate the style after she leaves the salon.

This is a common problem heard from women. My best advice is once you find a stylist you are happy and comfortable with simply ask them to go through the step by step process of styling your hair. If they are worth keeping, they will not mind at all!

Products and regular appointments can get expensive... What to do? Maybe at home remedies...  avocado, beer, mayonnaise?

There are many at home remedies to cure hair problems! For example adding lemon juice to the hair before going out in the sun can lighten up hair. You can also smash up avocados, whip up eggs, or soak the hair in beer to replenish moisture and add shine to the hair.

I've had so many bad experiences at salons, how do I go about finding a good stylist?

Talk to people. This is the best way to find someone who’s really great!  So, next time you are at the store and you see a hairstyle you love, don’t be shy and ask!

Unfamiliar with what hair type they have and how to deal with it.

There are different ways to identify hair type. For example there is straight, wavy, curly, or frizzy. There is fine, medium, and coarse hair.  There is dry, oily or normal hair. In general normal or medium hair doesn’t have too many challenges. For coarse hair you may have to deal with dryness or heaviness. Fine hair may need more moisture or volume to make you happy. No matter what don’t worry!  There is always a solution to any kind of problem!

Unfamiliar with hair products or how to use hot tools that could improve their hair challenges.

In order to become familiar with a certain product you must first identify what would be best for your hair type. For example, there are products that promote body for thin or fine hair. Products that have a smoothing effect for curly or frizzy hair. Moisture products for dry hair, etc, etc.  Then determine how you like to wear your hair on a daily basis. This will help with the choice of styling products and hot tools. Do you need hairspray or shine serums? Do you need a flat iron or a diffuser? Once these questions are answered you should be a step closer to being a hair guru. If you still have questions on how to style hair call around to different salons and see if a stylist will offer lessons.

How do I choose a haircut and color that is right for me?

A good hair cut should compliment your face shape. There are 7 face shapes that we acknowledge and a haircut should help accentuate the good parts and conceal other parts. Becoming aware of what looks good on you is great so you are prepared when a stylist asks what you are looking for.  Hair color should compliment your skin tone. You don’t want it to wash you out or be too overwhelming. All colors have warm and cool tones, including your skin color. Identify what that is and go with the same palette.

I've run out of ideas and don't want to be boring, what can I do that is quick and creative?

Accessories are my best tips for this problem! A cool scarf, cute headband, or elegant clip will really transform your look!

How do I make sure that when I am getting a hairstyle for a formal event it comes out exactly as I hope?

My best advice is to find a picture of what you want your hair to look like for your specific event. Then bring it in to your stylist the day of the appointment and have her go over expectations. For example your hair maybe way to thin to create that exact look you want but you can get it close. If you are really paranoid schedule an appointment for a trail run a couple weeks before your big event.

Tips to keep hair healthy in the summer/winter?

During the summer, the hot sun can really do a number on the hair.  Whenever possible protect it by throwing on a hat. There are also products out on the market that contain sunscreen. Your hair needs it too so use it as religiously as you do on your face and body. And in the winter often times the hair and skin loose moisture and can become very dry and brittle. Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize! Schedule weekly deep conditioning treatments with your stylist or do it yourself at home.  Start to work in products with moisture into your beauty routine. Start to use a couple times a week or replace your other stuff all together.

Tips on how to deal with humidity or dryness.

Sometimes, the weather really dictates what you will be able to accomplish with your hair that day. If it is 50% humidity or you’re in the middle of the desert you may just have to accept that you will not be able to achieve big sexy hair that day. Keep a reasonable expectation.  There are cute alternatives however… opt for a cute up do or put it up with a stylish clip. You can still make yourself look really pretty this way. If the weather is really killing your good hair day play up your makeup or put on a special outfit.

Whenever I curl my hair it immediately drops and looses all curl.

The key to this problem is you must let the hair cool before you drop it!  Heat changes the hydrogen bonds in the hair, which convert it from straight to curly. However, if it is still warm it means the bonds haven’t fully reformed and you will lose that curl pattern. After curling the hair stand with the hot tool clip it up with a hairpin, finish curling the entire head, and then release the pin curls. This may take a little bit more time but the end result would definitely be worth it.

If you have a question that you'd like answered, please email me at questions@hollywoodhairguy.com