Tuesday, February 9, 2010

Natural Remedy for Hair Loss Treatment

My hair has always shed more than I like it to especially, the last few years. I am not sure what the cause is since I do not color my hair or excessively use hot styling tools. I have been taking vitamins which does make a noticeably difference but I still like to see better result. As we all know, currently there is no sure way in preventing hair loss.

A dear friend of mine have been applying fresh Aloe Vera gel to her scalp and hair the past couple months, with positive result. I saw her last week and her hair was definitely fuller and softer. Lucky for me, I have a big old tree at home. Here is my baby, he is huge.



I did some research and indeed, the Native Americans have used this method for centuries. Aloe Vera has enzyme and anti-inflammation properties that help heal and balance the pH level of the scalp while cleansing the pores. The easiest way to reap the benefit is to cut a fresh leave and apply the gel to your scalp and hair, leave it for 30 minutes and shampoo as usual. If you don’t have your own plant handy, you can also purchase Aloe Vera gel from the store, just make sure it is 100% pure or as close to it as possible. I know Jason Natural brand make Aloe Vera gel that you can purchase from Wholefoods.

You can also look for shampoo with Aloe Vera gel in it. A common preparation of Aloe Vera gel with a small amount of wheat germ oil and coconut milk is used as a shampoo and has traditionally shown great benefit. Another alternative is to mix your regular shampoo with Aloe Vera gel, a 1:1 ratio. You will not need to use conditioner afterward unless your hair is very dry or long and tangle.

I tried the treatment last night and while I don’t expect to see hair regrowth until a few months with continuous use, I did get softer and shinier hair. It is obvious that this is good not only for people who are losing hair, but even for those that just wants to have healthy and shiny hair.

Thursday, February 4, 2010

L’Oreal Paris Lash Boosting Serum

L’Oreal Paris Lash Boosting Serum is the first drugstore brand (that I known of) to jump onto the lash enhancer band wagon. It promises to give thicker and fuller lashes in 4 weeks. According to their site, this serum helps with “less lash fall-out when removing makeup. The breakthrough formula contains Centella Asiatica Extract and Arginine to reinforce, condition, and protect each lash”. It sounds like this will not make your lashes longer but it will help keep them healthier and fuller.

Instead of applying the product to your lash line like an eyeliner (like many of its predecessor), you apply this like you would with a mascara, directly onto the lashes. It is to be use underneath mascara and alone overnight. It is a lot cheaper compare to Latisse (which claims to also make your lashes longer), this is price at around $13. This would be awesome if it works and I am curious.

Monday, February 1, 2010

2010 Hair How To with Celebrity Stylist Tippi Shorter

I had the pleasure of doing a Q&A session with celebrity stylist Tippi Shorter, whose clients include Beyonce and Alicia Keys. The focus of this interview is on 2010 hair trends and professional how to tips.



1. What are 2010 hair trends and can you give us tips on how the average person can style this hairstyle in 15 mins?

Controlled volume and sleek ponytails are two of my favorite 2010 hair trends. They can easily be achieved in around 15 minutes or less, depending on your hair length and texture. If you have a limited amount of time, a ponytail is a classic that looks fabulous on almost everyone.

Here is the scoop on how to:

Big, sexy volume
- Begin this look by running volumizing mousse through hair from root to tip.
- Create soft curls by setting hair with curlers (like Advance Techniques Pillow Curlers). Spray a light mist of hair spray to ensure hair will hold curl.
- Remove the curlers from your hair. Flip hair over front of head and spray with additional hair spray to create extra volume and hold. Run fingers through hair to loosen curls for a soft finish.

Sleek ponies/bun
- To create the perfect canvas for a defined part, start with clean, smooth hair.
- Apply serum to the ends of your hair and a straight smoothing balm from root to tip. Using a brush (she recommends Advance Techniques Cushion Brush), blow dry hair straight.
- Use a comb to create a defined part on the side of the head. Pull all hair into a tight, sleek bun at the back of the neck to make the part really stand out. Spray a light mist of shine spray to create a high-sheen finish.


2. Can you give us tips on how to grow and maintain long hair?

Always make sure to nourish hair with masks and treatments that have hydrating and soothing ingredients. Each person’s hair is unique and needs special attention. Advance Techniques Moisture Sleek Collection is a universal collection from Avon that works to smooth several different hair types. Also, to maintain long, healthy hair, get trims regularly.


3. What is the trend for 2010 bridal hairstyles? Is there any new trend for bridal hair accessories?

Weddings are a time to celebrate and experiment with hair styles and accessories. Trends for 2010 include flowing, luscious waves, sleek ponytails and ballerina buns used to achieve a formal yet chic and sexy look. I love accessories; they can change the look and feel of a hairstyle! Brides have so many choices from jeweled headbands to clips to wearing fresh flowers in the hair. The accessories greatly depend on the fabric, style and build of the dress.


4. Can you give us some recommendation for both higher end and budget friendly hair care products?

Look for multi-tasking hair care products. I love Avon's Advanced Techniques Dry Ends Serum, which works to repair damaged hair and add shine (and it's only $5.00). I also love Ojon if you're looking for a splurge. The most important thing is finding products that work best for your hair type.


You might also like:
How To Achieve Beautiful Eyebrows
Asian 5 Steps Skincare Routine

Friday, January 29, 2010

Barbie Glams Up & Gives Back

Barbie in little black dress! The just-launched Barbie Basics collection gives grown-up girls permission to play and celebrates every fashionista's must-have wardrobe staple - the iconic LBD. Twelve fab dolls each sport their own distinct silhouette of the fashion classic and represent a variety of hairstyles, facial features and skin tones. The dolls can be customized to represent your own personal style with the ultra-chic accessory packs.


What I love is that not only are they super stylist and hot, they are also very diverse. You got beach blond, red head, brunnette and every range in skin color. The best part is that these twelve Barbie will also be part of a fundraising event. To celebrate the launch of the LBD-loving Barbie Basics line, twelve CFDA fashion and accessories designers, including Isaac Mizrahi, Kate Spade's Deborah Lloyd , Tory Burch, Rachel Roy and Monica Botkier, created one-of-a-kind dolls spotlighting their unique points-of-view. Starting January 28 at 10pm EST through February 7, these individually styled pieces of art will be auctioned off on eBay with the entire net proceeds directly benefiting CFDA education initiatives and scholarship program. The opening bid begins at $100.

Tuesday, January 26, 2010

New Product: Bare Escentual Spf 25 Mineral Veil

Good news for those that love BareMinerals Mineral Veil, there is now the new Spf 25 version that comes in both original and tinted. Added sun protection is always welcome yeh.


From their website: Get the ultimate flawless finish while protecting your skin from harmful UVA/UVB rays. Make the most of your makeup with Mineral Veil, a see-through but spectacular finale for any kind of complexion. Minimizing lines, absorbing oils, and softening your complexion, it gives you a flawless finish that's too good to miss. And best of all, it's utterly weightless. Just a bare veil of minerals that lock makeup in place and give your skin airbrushed perfection.

Price: $19