Hair colour | Grey hair

Even though I make an arduous effort to hide it, I'm going to reveal it here: I'm going grey. And no, it's not a recent event. In fact, my first grey hair made an appearance when I was eleven. Soon after, the rest of the crew followed. At the moment, besides those scattered strands, I have a full-on Stacy London-esque grey section of hair, on the front.

I thought that having blunt bangs would help to prolong the interval between colourings, and it did at first, but as the grey section expanded it's territory, it managed to conquer the top hairs in my fringe, becoming perfectly visible.
Having dry hair and being sensitive to dyes — and yes, I do use products like INOA — the four-week period between camouflage jobs was short enough for my capillary health, so I was determined to find temporary solutions to continue to mask my secret until the next root touch-up.

I found quite a number of solutions for this issue: sprays, powders, creams... Some perform better than others, but I didn't find the perfect formula just yet.
When it comes to sprays/coloured dry shampoos and powders, they're not ideal unless you benefit from the matte effect they provide. In my case, they make my hair look dull and the coverage is way too sheer for my dark brunette mane.

The creamy formulas that come in a tube form and usually carry a spooly or a doe foot applicator, provide a better finish compared to powders. The one I'm using at the moment is L'Action Cosmetique Bye Bye Grey Hair in Dark Brown. Apply it directly to grey roots and wait a few minutes to dry. I like to brush it carefully afterwards, so it looks more natural (less crispy). FYI, it only lasts until your next shower and not 3 to 10 days, as stated in the label. The coverage is medium to full, depending on the shade.

I'm hoping to find a better formula in the the near future — I'll keep you posted.
Until then, will continue to use this cover-up during the last couple of weeks that precede the next colouring.

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Styling a fringe | bangs

You see all of these great icons sporting an effortless fringe — Zooey Deschanel, Katy Perry, Lily Allen, Audrey Hepburn... — and you think "all I need to impart that sort of look is cutting a bit of hair across the forehead". The question is: can you actually manage it at home?

This question seems to cross our minds every time we consider a new haircut, and sometimes it stops us from getting the style we always wanted. Well, don't let that happen. If you really want something, learn how to get on with it.

Let's start with something simple today: fringe (a.k.a. bangs). Most people do struggle with this particular style, because of it's common issues: it parts in the middle or it's not laying flat (or maybe it's laying too flat?). One lesson well learnt, for me, was: put down the flat iron! A hair dryer is the right tool for this job, but bare in mind, timing is everything.

Before we get to the styling bit, let's analyze the cut, shall we? Make sure you let the stylist know if you want straight across bangs or rounded ones, a long fringe that completely covers the brows or a short vintage-looking one. Also, decide beforehand if you like the longer bits on the sides. And, with thick hair, make sure there's some thinning out action.

Right, now that the cut is sorted, let's get on with it. Get used to blow-drying your fringe right after the shower. This is especially important if your hair isn't naturally pin-straight or if you have any whorls (cowlicks) at the front.

To get right into the roots, dismiss that rounded brush. Pick up a fine tooth comb — making sure it has soft rounded edges, to avoid any damage on the scalp — and comb the hair from side to side, with the nozzle of the dryer on top. Not too close, though!
Drying in different directions "disorients" the hair parting (or the whorl), making it fall straight down to the front.

Before drying the hair, if you usually apply any sort of styling cream, do apply a tiny bit on the fringe (avoiding the roots) in order to get a polished result. And don't forget to spritz some heat protecting spray!
If you find that your cowlick is very persistent, and it tends to lift back up when the hair cools down, wear a hairband right after styling it, for about 10 to 20 minutes, until the hair sets.
And, when you just don't have the time or the patience to manage it, simply braid it or pin it back!

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Review | ghd IV Styler hair straightener

Heat styling... If there's one major addiction I can't live without, it's a hair straightener. I know, I know, it's very unhealthy and brings high levels of damage to your locks, but I truly dislike my hair without any sort of heat styling.

Now, if you're familiar with my previous posts, you might have learnt that my hair is very frizzy and unruly. And there's a lot of it! I don't really mind the shape itself — straight, curly, wavy, it's all good — but the texture bothers me. The shaft is quite thick and unmanageable, so I find that a little heat application makes it look softer and healthier, actually.

For those who have a lot of hair, you know how great it is to be able to control the volume. I like it on the roots, not on the lengths. Triangle mane, anyone?
Of course, I do my best to protect it and to prevent any future damage, especially since I'd rather keep my locks on the longer side. Always use heat protecting products that are especially conceived to use with high temperatures. There's a few good ones, but I found myself really hooked to the ghd's own Heat Protect Spray. Also, do treat your hair to a weekly (or twice-weekly) intense nourishing treatment. This will actually help to repair some of the damage and provide further protection.

Until 2012, I've had multiple models of BaByliss heat tools, but having read such good recommendations, I caved and got a ghd IV Styler. From what I understand, the temperature in this particular tool is 210º C, which made me a bit skeptical in terms of results — I was used to the very high 230º C temperature! But, let me tell you, even with a lower heat it didn't disappoint! If it's possible to achieve the same sleek, straight and long lasting results with fewer degrees, why not? Plus, the appliance has rounded edges that allow you to create impeccable curls.
Of course, I was intrigued when, after a few months, ghd released a new model, Eclipse, featuring an even lower temperature (185º C) and promising to "deliver the best and fastest results yet". Does it actually deliver? I'll stick to my IV Styler, for now, but I am curious to try it...

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Empties #4 | Hair care edition

Another empties edition, this time featuring solely hair care products.
Starting with the most basic — washing — let me introduce a scalp saviour that I discovered last summer: Redken Scalp Relief Soothing Balance Shampoo. The Scalp Relief range offers different solutions for specific scalp concerns, like excess oil production, dandruff or sensitivity. The latter was a condition I had to deal with ASAP.
Often during summer months, my skin (including scalp) becomes more sensitive. So, I carefully choose delicate formulas to wash and condition, avoiding strong fragrances. This gentle shampoo cleanses effectively, while soothing and relaxing the scalp. The creamy blend of eucalyptus and liquorice extracts has a soft and relaxing scent.

I haven't used TIGI S-Factor Smoothing Conditioner for a while, and forgot how great it was. The texture is incredibly creamy and thick. In fact, it is so thick that if you have the regular 250ml pumpless bottle, you know how hard it is to push the product out near the end.
What I really appreciate in the S-Factor range, compared to Bed Head, is the use of more grown-up and delicate fragrances. They're not subtle by any means, just more refined. In this case, it's supposed to have an asian pear and papaya aroma, but it reminds me of strawberry sweets, for some reason. The result is instantly conditioned and smoothed down locks, with increased shine levels. It's very effective in calming frizzy hair, like mine, and helps to reduce fly-aways. The formula with avocado and jojoba oils nourishes hair and provides manageability.

Again from TIGI S-Factor, I used up these Health Factor Extreme Moisture Therapy 10ml bottles. I believe this product is discontinued now, but I managed to find it here and here. It was a gift with purchase with another S-Factor item, so I didn't know what to expect.
Haven't used it long enough to notice long term benefits, though I did notice that it helped increasing hydration levels, making it a good primer for other conditioning products.
The quantity applied depends on the texture, density and length of hair. I used half a bootle at a time, on towel-dried hair, and combed it through. This leave-in spray treatment repairs and nourishes damaged hair, while improving it's elasticity and protecting hair from future damage.

Obviously, I finished another bottle of hair oil. I believe this was the second bottle of L'Oréal Professionnel Mythic Oil I've used up. A lightweight formula that absorbs quickly and it's suited for all hair types, making it ideal to use on dry hair.
I apply a few pumps starting from the ends — where I want the most product — and work it through the lengths as well. This formula with avocado and grape seed oils provides a shiny and softer result, adding a healthy look. Depending on your hair type and density, you can apply a few pumps before and after blow-drying and whenever your locks are feeling a bit lackluster.

Finally, a product that you can't neglect, especially if you're addicted to heat styling. If you are, welcome to the club. We have tea on Thursdays.
Last December, when I purchased my first ghd straighteners, I thought I'd give ghd Heat Protect Spray a go. And I'm really glad I did.
The packaging is sleek and beautiful — I can't hide the fact that I do fall for packaging — and it sprays such a fine, light mist that feels like you have absolutely nothing on your hair. Doesn't weigh down or leave any sort of residue or build-up. Perfect. Smells really good, too. Not a strong, lingering scent, which is ideal in my eyes, since at that stage in my routine I already applied a cocktail of different products with distinct fragrances.
This spray protects against the heat from dryers, curling wands and straighteners and can be used in damp or dry hair. Do comb it through afterwards, to distribute the product evenly. I miss having this spray, but I really need to finish two other thermal protectors before repurchasing this. I'm really trying to resist...

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The chosen ones | Kérastase Elixir Ultime Moringa Immortel

Another day, another moringa-based formula. I'm surprised by the fact that I don't hear a lot of buzz about this range of oils, by Kérastase, in the blogosphere. The Elixir Ultime Grand Crus line up comprises four different oils, that meet specific hair needs. As someone who tried and tested quite the variety of hair oils, I wasn't expecting to be this surprised by the performance of Elixir Ultime Moringa Immortel.
If you're a carrier of a dry, frizzy and rebellious mane like myself, or just need some TLC due to some chemical processing, this is the version for you. A blend enriched with the Oléo-Complexe and Immortal Moringa extract — known as the "Tree of Life" — enclosed in an elegant bottle.

The woody oriental fragrance combined with the lightweight texture of the oil, make the application very pleasurable. It actually shows a long-lasting result, providing nourishment, shine and a healthy feel.
Being a multitasking product, it will perform throughout the whole hair care routine. Pre-cleanse or use as an intensive conditioning treatment before washing; apply to towel-dried hair before styling; finish using a few drops to add a polished look; and retouch whenever needed.
Aside from its conditioning properties, this oil strengthens damaged hair, delivers essential nutrients and promotes cellular renewal with its antioxidant active ingredients.
To keep my coloured, heat styled hair in shape, I'll be holding on to this product for dear life.

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Review | Philip Kingsley Elasticizer Extreme

Background story time. So, despite being very strong, my hair has always been very, very dry. It has a lot of natural texture and I have a lot of it. To tame it, I need two weapons: softening products and heat styling. Yes, yes, heat styling is very damaging, but I need to look minimally presentable. Without some sort of heat, I look like a mad lion. I like a messy-grungy look as much as the next person, but this is a whole other level of messy. Trust me.

A few years back, I had perfect curls — big and bouncy ones —, so I could easily get away with some styling products and no heat. That's not the case anymore. Let's just say that my hair is in a quest to find it's natural shape. It's very confused at the moment and needs some sort of direction — that's when the flat iron comes to the rescue!

Anyway, between being dry, frizzy, untamable and with all that heat styling and colouring, it needs some extra TLC.
After a few clicks on the feelunique website, I stumble upon Philip Kingsley's Elasticizer Extreme — there's a regular Elasticizer version, as well. Considering that Kingsley "is the world's most respected authority on hair and scalp health" and all of those awards, the choice was more than obvious.

This is one of those pre-shampoo treatments that you apply directly onto key sections of damp hair, work it in and leave for 10 to 20 minutes. I usually like to apply a face mask and watch a YouTube video, during this time. Then, rinse it and just wash and condition as usual. You're supposed to proceed with a scalp toner afterwards, but I don't use one.

Now, you should use this regularly, but I have to admit that I do forget sometimes. Nevertheless, I did notice some amazing results: my hair has a softer feel, it's easier to style and there's a definite improvement on nourishment. Before, I had to apply a bit of oil one or two times per day, or else my hair would look very dry and lackluster. Now, I apply it just after washing it and it looks fine — I guess this is due to the Castor and Olive oils in the treatment's formula. Very, very pleased with the results.
Oh, and an important note: you're not supposed to use it three days before or after chemical processing. That is all.

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Empties #3

Okay, time for another empties post. Because I want to throw away some stuff. Hah!
This time, I have a couple of hair products, some skincare bits and a mascara — I'm pretty sure you know which one. Yep, it's the Clinique High Impact Extreme Volume Mascara. You can read a proper review here, though, I should add that when it gets to the point where it starts to dry out a bit, the formula gets a bit gloopy. Considering that the bristles are so small, it's not ideal. But, it's still a good mascara nonetheless.

Since said mascara is a bit hard to cleanse away, a pretty nice product to take it off with is MAC Gently Off Eye & Lip Makeup Remover. It's dual-phased — formulated with both water and oil —, so you have to shake it in order to combine the two. Removes every trace of make-up, whether it's oil-based or water-based, including stubborn mascaras (case in point) and lip stains. It's gentle and suitable for all skin types. Formulated with Cucumber extract and Damascus Rose water to soothe and refresh. If you prefer this type of cleanser that you pour into a cotton pad and wipe away, opposed to a balm or cream cleanser and a warm cloth, this is a good option, for sure. It's quick and easy. Just hold the cotton pads in place for a few seconds and then gently swipe the make-up off and rinse. Easy-peasy.

If your skin is oily or combination, and you know just how frustrating a shiny nose can be, I totally feel you. My skin is combination, but whenever I'm out and about, especially in the sun or somewhere with a powerful AC, my nose gets shiny in a few hours. Powders just don't do it for more than that period of time. Obviously, blotting tissue is my friend, but I also need some sort of primer to extend the need to blot and powder during the day. I have tried many, many of them, and still haven't found an amazing one that lasts all day. The best I've tried so far, was this Clinique Pore Minimizer T-Zone Shine Control. I can't find it on the Clinique site/counters anymore, but I found it on Amazon (click here). It keeps shine at bay until mid-afternoon, which is pretty good, and it's very lightweight and colourless. Comes in a gel texture and goes on smoothly, leaving pores minimized and a velvety feel. Acts as a great primer under make-up and can be used over make-up, as well. Contains Salicydic Acid (which exfoliates the pores from the inside), Silica (to absorb shine), Witch Hazel (to tighten pores) and Clove Flower extract (to reduce oil production). Has quite a strong alcohol smell when you first squeeze it out, but goes away almost instantly, so it doesn't really bother me.
I was going to repurchase this, but since it has been discontinued, I got the Pore Refining Solutions Instant Perfector in Invisible Bright, instead. So far, so good. Goes on very smoothly, kinda like silicone.

Moving on to the hair department, I finished another bottle of Kérastase Nutritive Bain Satin 2. This shampoo is so rich and luxurious. If you have dry hair, you'll love this. The smell is incredible (redundant information, since it's Kérastase, duh!) and the formula is very, very creamy. I always let it stay for a couple of minutes before rinsing, to let the ingredients do their job. It's very moisturizing and provides a great level of nutrition, so the hair doesn't feel dry or dehydrated, even when you use harsh styling tools (ghd Styler, I'm looking at you!). Contains glucose, proteins and lipids to protect and repair the hair fiber. Just try it.

To close up, I'll end with a hair treatment — Goldwell DualSenses Rich Repair 60 Second Treatment. I was both skeptical and excited about the "60 Second" mention on the label. I don't have the patience to wait 15 minutes for a hair mask to work every time I wash my hair, especially on weekdays. Leaves hair feeling very soft and, most importantly, acts fast. The formula balances the lipid levels in the hair, making it supple and healthy looking. Definitely will repurchase.

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Empties #2

My second post on products I've used up features some haircare, a bit of skincare and, of course, make-up. For some reason, I now have a lot of products that are almost empty. That's what happens when you use a lot of different things...

I'm on my second bottle of Schwarzkopf Professional BC Oil Miracle Finishing Treatment. It's an amber coloured oil with a thick texture and a nice fragrance. By the way, there's a light version for fine hair – you can find it here.
I usually distribute a small amount of product onto the lenghts and ends of towel-dried hair, then blow-dry it. I use it on dry hair too, particularly in the winter – it absorbs quickly, thanks to an "evaporating formula". The argan oil leaves the hair nourished and really shiny. Just healthy looking hair that smells really good – although I prefer the scent of the light version, which is very soft and delicate. A great product to camouflage split ends, as well.

Soap and Glory Hand Food. Is there anything else to say, after this rave post? Needless to say, I'll repurchase it – when I finish my Caudalie one.

The next item, belongs to my essentials list, meaning, I need this at all times. La Roche-Posay Hydraphase Intense Eyes, or, the puffiness killer? A great option for dehydrated and uncomfortable skin around the eye. A refreshing gel that smoothes and refines the texture, providing a rested appearance, thanks to hyaluronic acid fragments, sodium hyaluronate and glycerin in the formula. I like to use this as a hydrating mask for the under-eye area, when I feel more dehydrated. Bonus: works well under make-up and is suited for sensitive skin.

In the highlighting department, I (unfortunately) finished my Guerlain Precious Light in the colour 2. This might be the best formula when it comes to highlighting pens – no visible glitter or shimmer whatsoever. Neutralizes any darkness with it's light reflecting properties. Just use it in key areas, like the inner corner of the eyes, on top of the cheekbones, bridge of the nose and cupid's bow. If you have a recession on the under-eye area, use just a tiny bit of this on the dark shadow – face down and look straight ahead on the mirror, you'll see it. Do not use it in puffy areas, it's going to make it worse.

Lastly, a mascara: Helena Rubinstein Lash Queen Sexy Blacks. I like everything about this: the packaging, the scent, the wand and the formula. And, it's inspired by feminine curves and lace.
I like this brand since I was a kid. I loved playing with my mum's mascara and lipsticks. My head was swooning over that gold and luxurious packaging. When I learned that she actually used all Helena Rubinstein products, I was convinced that it was the high-end brand.
Anyways, the formula is elongating and volumizing, while the hourglass shaped brush really catches all the lashes, curling them. Holds well throughout the day and it's easy to remove. I find that it doesn't clump and feels natural and soft to the touch.

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Hair routine | Straight & sleek

If you know me, you'll know that I only wear my hair straight or with loose curls/waves. But if it's winter, than it's probably pin straight.
Now, my hair is not straight and sleek naturally, in fact I have large curls, a lot of volume and a lot of hair. But it's really frizzy in texture and, having a dry scalp, I also have dry hair. So, yeah... it takes a few hours to tame this unruly head of hair. Here's how I do it.

If my scalp is extra dry or sensitive, I start by applying a few drops of the Shu Uemura Art of Hair Essential Drops Relaxing Blend directly on my scalp, with the help of the pipette embedded in the lid (there's a purifying one for normal to oily scalps, as well). I gently massage it with my fingers, distributing the oil evenly, and let it process for at least 10 minutes.
After that time, I wash my hair with Kérastase Nutritive Bain Oléo-Relax Smoothing Shampoo or Redken Scalp Relief Soothing Balance Shampoo, depending on what needs more TLC that day – the hair or the scalp.
For moisture and nourishment, I apply a mask like Goldwell DualSenses Rich Repair 60 Sec Treatment – when I'm a hurry, usually on week days – or Redken All Soft Heavy Cream – when I'm more relaxed, specially since this one takes longer to process (from 5 to 15 minutes), but it's one of my all time faves. I always comb it through, with a wide tooth comb, before rinsing – makes detangling easier afterwards.
After absorbing the excess moisture with a towel, I spray TIGI Catwalk Sleek Mystique Fast Fixx Style Prep to help with the detangling process. Although, the Tangle Teezer has made my life easier – I'd always cry when I was little, during the long sessions of unknotting my hair...
Anyway, after that, it's time to add some nourishment into the hair, with a few pumps of oil. Right now, I'm back on the Redken All Soft Argan-6 Oil, since it's a bit more heavy duty than the others I have laying around. Ideal for this dry, cold weather.
I then spritz some ghd Style Heat Protectant Spray and wrap the hair on one of those super-absorbing turbans (otherwise, I would end up with a soaked top). During this time, I lay out my outfit for the next day or do a mini facial. *Watching videos on YouTube with face mask on*
Now, the boring part, drying the hair. I always hated this part, because it takes so long and, did I mention it's so boring? Anyway, the process is faster and more efficient now that I have a new hairdryer – the air flow is so strong, it actually breaks down the curls into waves. Pretty cool. But I still look like a frizzy lioness after. To turn that into sleek and silky, my weapons of choice are the ghd IV Styler and a rat tail comb.
To finish, I apply a few pumps of the L'Oréal Professionnel tecni.art Hairmix Sublime Shine, from the ends going upwards, to provide some extra shine and reduce static. And... done. Phew!

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Review | Kérastase Nutritive Oléo-Relax Nuit Treatment

Today, I wanted to post another review. This time, on a nighttime treatment for hair, the Kérastase Nutritive Oléo-Relax Nuit Treatment.
This is a leave-in cream that nourishes and treats the hair, while you sleep. An ideal product for me, seeing that my hair is very rebellious, frizzy and dry. Being quite long and thick, it also requires more care. I usually apply this product on the weekends, because that's the only time I actually remember to use it.
The formula has a new generation of controlling silicone, that provides control and anti-frizz protection, while restoring the surface of the hair fibre; and Camelina Oil to nourish and make the straightening process easier, while treating the sensitised areas of the hair. So basically, everything I need in one.
Most of the time, I apply it on dry hair, from mid-lengths to ends, working it in until it absorbs a little. You'll get a sticky feeling on your hands, but it goes away afterwards. The smell of this cream is amazing – just like most Kérastase products. I never felt the need to wash the hair, the next morning. It doesn't look "crispy" or wet looking, so you can just style it as usual. I don't think you're supposed to wash it so soon, anyway.
The result is smooth, repaired and manageable hair, the next morning. The natural (excessive) volume is reduced and stays that way, even during rainy weather. Who wouldn't want to wake up with sleek and healthier hair?

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