Hairstylists Near Me

Pleasant Hill CA Hair Colorist Hair and Makeup Artist,Hairstylist,Bridal Hair Stylist,Mobile Hair Stylist
Caitlin Pavia

Caitlin Pavia

Hair Colorist
Offers virtual services

English

I am a creative individual with an eye for fashion, style, and color. I started my career as a stylist at a young age. When I decided to pursue my passion as a career, I formally trained at the Gina Khan Salon in San Francisco. You can work with me at my hair studio in Pleasant Hill or I occasiona…


FAQs:

What is a Hairstylist?

Hair stylists are beauty service professionals who specialize in the fashioning and treatment of hair. Hair stylist responsibilities include cleaning and cutting hair, offering hair care and hair styling consultations, and recommending hair styling products, among other duties.

What Does a Hairstylist Do?

A hairstylist provides full salon services, including cutting, coloring, shampooing, blow-drying, and styling hair. They stay up to date on the latest trends in haircuts and styles and make recommendations for what style and color will look best on a client. Other responsibilities include: 

- Showing the use of and selling hair care products

- Building relationships with clients to increase retention

- Proactively seeking new clients

- Engaging in ongoing education to maintain knowledge of trends

- Providing outstanding customer service

Where Does a Hairstylist Work?

Hairstylists typically have jobs in free-standing hair salons, but some are employed in spas and hotels. Some stylists lease a chair or booth from a salon owner, and later in their careers manage a shop or open up their shop. Surroundings are typically pleasant, although hair stylists spend most of their shift on their feet. They're also exposed to various chemicals and dyes, which often makes wearing aprons and disposable gloves a necessity.

Is it Worth Going to a Hairstylist?

Whether you have synthetic hair or natural hair, it’s important to have a good hairstylist in your corner to help you maintain it. Professional hairstylists are trained to provide you with exactly what you ask for, whether you want to change up your entire look or just maintain the style you already have. 

What is the Professional Attitude of a Hairstylist?

The hairstylist you choose must be passionate about his work. Passion is something that injects enthusiasm into the work. He must possess a lot of patience, dedication, and hard work. Most importantly, he must enjoy doing his work.

Professionalism is something that should not be overlooked in a hairstylist. If you want a tough haircut just like the one in the picture or want to emulate the latest celebrity trend, the stylist must be such that he can serve you in the best possible manner. Ensure that he acquires the working experience of at least 2-3 years.

What’s the Difference Between a Hairdresser and a Hairstylist?

Although both terms are used interchangeably, hairdressers and hairstylists do not share the same profession. Both work with hair, but they don’t have to do the same thing. Besides having separate professional training, they also do completely different types of work and even handle different tools when they do it! If someone knows how to cut hair perfectly, that doesn’t mean they will know how to create the perfect updo!

A hairdresser is a trained professional who cuts, processes, and styles hair. Whenever you go to a hairdresser, they will talk about what kind of cut and style you want. They will recommend different haircuts that look better with your face shape and hair type. They may also recommend products or services that will help you.

Hairdressers perform services such as washing, shampooing, cutting, coloring, curling, straightening, and treating hair. The latest haircuts and style trends are usually updated by hairdressers.

While the hairstylists work on styles – curls, perms, updos, etc. A hairstylist can help you decide on the look you want and create the perfect hairdo for a special occasion. Hairstylists, however, have a more established craft and knowledge of specific services.

What Does Hair Type Mean?

Your hair type is primarily based on your hair’s curl pattern. The amount of curl in your hair is determined by your hair follicle. The shape of your follicle determines whether your hair is:

- straight

- wavy

- curly

- coily

The more oval or asymmetrical your follicle is, the curlier your hair will be. Your hair type is determined by genetics. You can alter your curl pattern with heat or chemicals, and your curl pattern can be changed somewhat by hormones or medications you’re taking, but your basic curl pattern is in your DNA. Every time your hair goes through its growth cycle, those genetic characteristics are reasserted.

What are the Different Hairstyling Techniques?

The world of hair styling is always evolving, with new trends and techniques emerging each season. This year is no exception, as we see a delightful mix of classic styles with a modern twist. Whether you're looking for a fresh look for a special occasion or just want to upgrade your everyday style, these hottest hair styling techniques of the season will surely inspire you. The best part? You can easily achieve these stunning looks from the comfort of your own home!

1. Sleek Low Ponytail with a Twist:

The low ponytail has been a timeless go-to style, but this season it's getting a chic twist. To achieve this look, start by brushing your hair back and securing it into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck. Use a strand of hair to wrap around the hair tie for a polished finish.

2. Sunkissed Beach Waves:

Beach waves is a hot quotient for summers, and they are here to stay this season as well. To get that effortless, beachy vibe at home, start by applying a volumizer to damp hair.

3. Half-Up Messy Bun:

The half-up messy bun is the perfect balance of casual and chic. To achieve this look, take the top half of your hair and secure it into a loose bun at the crown of your head. Don't worry about making it perfect – the messier, the better! Allow some face-framing strands to fall naturally for a relaxed and effortless feel. To achieve a dreamy look, try soft curls for the hair that’s left loose.

4. Volumed Pixie Cut:

Short hair has been gaining popularity, and the volume pixie style is one of the trendiest styles for those with shorter locks. This cut adds dimension and movement to your hair, making it look fuller and more stylish.

5. Slicked Back Look:

If you hate to feel hair on your face, the best way to avoid flyaways and draw attention to the sharp features of your face is a slicked-back style.

6. Hair Accessories Galore:

Hair accessories have made a grand comeback, and they're an easy way to elevate any hairstyle. From stylish hair clips to elegant headbands, you can experiment with a wide range of accessories to suit your personality and outfit. Simply straighten your hair or curl and add the accessories for an instant and fashionable upgrade.

What are the Different Hairstyling Tools?

Major hair styling tools are:

Hair dryer − A tool used to dry hair and style it. It blows hot air onto the hair to speed up the drying process.

Straightening iron − a tool used to straighten hair by applying heat to it. It can also be used to create curls or waves.

Curling iron − A tool used to create curls or waves in hair by applying heat to it.

Hot rollers − A set of heated rollers used to create curls or waves in hair

Hairbrush − A tool used to detangle hair and distribute natural oils throughout it.

Comb − A tool used to detangle hair and create precise parts.

Hair clips − Clips are used to section off hair while styling.

Hair pins − Bobby pins are hair pins used to keep hair in place.

Hair ties − Hair ties are elastic bands used to secure hair in a ponytail or other hairstyle.

Hair bands are fabric bands that are used to hold hair in a ponytail or other hairstyle.

The Importance of Hairstyling

The most noticeable part of a woman’s beauty is her hair, it certainly enhances her personality. This makes your hair become the most crucial yet important part of your entire look. A nasty hair day is simply a nasty day. Following are some of the reasons why and how a hairstyle can complete your entire look:

1. Beauty Enhancement

A beautiful hairdo can elevate your sense of grace and joy, as it definitely adds to your natural beauty.

2. Makes your Presence Count

A good hairdo has the power to make you appear more knowledgeable or a bum. In further explanation, if your hair does not go with your clothing, it can simply ruin your day and even make you appear homeless who had stolen someone else’s clothes which they can’t fit in. However, a hairstyle that complements your entire look and personality can make a mark of your presence in whichever gathering you step in. A nasty haircut may reflect that you are either a lazy person or someone with low self-esteem and confidence.

3. Boosts Your Confidence

An honest hair-do can have the power to make you feel the top of yourself and induce remarkable confidence in your personality. It makes you accept your real self with more love and happiness and flaunt it flawlessly in public.

4. Complements Your Features

Picking the proper hairdo and color that matches the form of your face and complements your complexion and features can make an individual go from normal to highly aesthetic. This helps you in flaunting your personality and making a mark.

5. Feel More Smart and Comfortable

It is a common human psyche that when you feel confident in yourself, you just become a more smart and version of yourself. And this confidence can come from a proper hairdo or styling which can come from any professional or salon who knows what complements your personality, go for it!

6. Get Rid of Nasty Hairdo

A wrong hairdo can shatter your confidence and turn you to self-doubt and misery, therefore, make sure that an honest hairdo complements the dress to make you appear glamorous and celebrated. In all honesty, just get rid of the messy haircut or styling that be a negative impact on your personality.

7. You will be Remembered for Your Hairdo

It is generally considered a healthy trait to stay conscious of your outlook, and this goes for an honest hairdo as well. Taking care of yourself and being ambitious about it, shows what kind of a person are you and it counts. Keep in mind that you will be remembered for the personality that comes in when you enter a meeting or an event and it is on you how gracefully you carry your hairstyle because it will be remembered as a part of your personality and be cherished for it.

Hairstylist Duties and Responsibilities

Here are the duties and responsibilities of a hairstylist:

- Provide haircut and blow-dry services, keratin smoothing, formal styles for events, and any other services you are trained for

- Braid and weave hair

- Provide bleach, dye, and hair tinting services

- Demonstrate and sell hair care products and cosmetics

- Proactively develop new customers

- Consistently increase guest retention by building relationships and pre-booking appointments

- Develop strong professional presentation, technical ability, and relationship-building skills

- Provide excellent customer service skills and a strong work ethic

- Demonstrate a commitment to providing outstanding client service

- Show willingness to grow and continue education to maintain knowledge of the current trends

- Have flexibility regarding work hours; ability to work nights, weekends, and some holidays

Hairstylist Skills and Competencies

Here are certain soft skills that a hairstylist should possess:

1. Active Listening: It is essential to be able to understand your client's wants, needs, and concerns.

2. Customer Service: Your customers should be satisfied when they walk out the door. That will be due not only to the service you provide but to how they feel you treat them.

3. Interpersonal Skills: Providing excellent customer service requires the ability to listen to your clients and understand their body language.

4. Critical Thinking: Your clients will want to help make decisions about their hairstyles. You will need strong critical thinking skills that allow you to weigh alternative solutions to choose the one that will work out best.

5. Time Management: Managing your time well is essential since your clients don't want to be kept waiting.

Qualities of a Good Hairstylist

Hair, nails, and skincare are personal services, so how you treat clients and the atmosphere you create in the salon matters. It’s your soft skills that make you an engaging hairstylist, a supportive coworker, and a valuable employee. A successful hairstylist is:

Quality #1: Friendly

A friendly approach is key to making customers feel welcome. The relationship between clients and their hairstylists is a uniquely personal one, and the fastest way to ruin it is to make the customer feel like a nuisance. Greeting clients like they’re the friend you’ve been waiting all day to see make a winning first impression. A warm smile and a hospitable demeanor make them feel appreciated and open the door for communication. It’s a win for both you and your customers when you get off on the right foot.

Quality #2: Punctual

Part of being a professional is getting to work on time. Your employer, colleagues, and clients are counting on you. It may not seem like a big deal to punch in a few minutes late, but that puts the burden of opening the salon or managing your shift on others. Coworkers must extend hospitality to their clients while managing their responsibilities to protect the salon’s reputation. It doesn’t look good to customers when you arrive frazzled. They may wonder if you’re cutting corners by not sanitizing your workstation or equipment before they sit in your chair. And they’ll worry you’re not focused enough to give them your full attention. Punctuality is at the heart of doing good business.

Quality #3: Courteous

Lack of courtesy is among customers’ greatest pet peeves. They feel neglected when the staff is distracted. If the salon is busy and you need to leave the workstation, ask their permission. When the telephone rings, put the customer first by asking “Do you mind if I answer that?” Chances are they won’t, and they’ll feel like you’re respectful of their time. Avoid distractions whenever possible. If you’re chit-chatting with colleagues about your weekend plans, clients know your mind isn’t on your job. Be considerate and focus the conversation on them.

Quality #4: Honest

Telling someone the cut they want won’t complement their appearance isn’t easy. Everyone wants the latest Hollywood look, but it’s your professional duty to offer honest feedback when a client requests a style that isn’t a good fit for their features. A gentle approach offering more suitable alternatives is usually well-received if you explain why. It’s also critical to be upfront about fees. People don’t mind paying for services, but getting a surprise bill at checkout is frustrating, and it can be embarrassing if they don’t have enough money to pay. Why damage a good professional relationship? If you offer additional or upgraded services, be clear about the costs.

Quality #5: Positive

Giving a bride runway hair on a budget is unrealistic, but there are usually similar options that are both gratifying and affordable. She just wants to be beautiful, and it’s your job to make her look and feel her best. Don’t concentrate on what you can’t do, focus on what you can by offering alternative styles with a similar effect. Successful hairstylists troubleshoot requests and find ways to say yes. Being positive is also appreciated by coworkers and supervisors, spending the day without your colleagues isn’t much fun. There’s no easier way to reduce workplace stress than by staying upbeat and having fun.

Quality #6: Patient

A client who says “Do whatever” is a hairstylist’s worst nightmare. It sounds like a carte blanche to be creative, but it’s a set-up for failure if you get it wrong. They don’t do it to put you on the spot. For most, it’s their way of saying they want something fresh, but they don’t have the knowledge or confidence to ask for it. Perhaps they’ve insisted on styles in the past that didn’t look good, or they’re not familiar with hair care terminology. But most genuinely believe you have a better idea than they do, and they want your recommendation. Asking questions is the best way to find out more about what they like. Be patient and go with the flow but be prepared with a script for handling it.

Quality #7: Team-oriented

Whether you work for the salon or are an independent contractor, your relationship with your coworkers can make or break your success. Some services, for example, require two hairstylists to complete. Others benefit from the creative input of more than one mind, everyone has strengths and weaknesses. When everyone works together to satisfy customers, salons run like clockwork and earn an excellent reputation which brings more customers through the door. Everyone benefits.

Quality #8: Creative

Tomorrow’s hottest hairstyles are created today. Hairstylists are trained in the most popular techniques but being creative is what sets them apart. You don’t have to reinvent the wheel. Take whatever skill you have and build on it. If you have a knack for updos, develop new special occasion styles. Or turn your eye for hair color into blending specialty shades. Experimenting cautiously with cuts and color is great for your branding. People with unique styles get noticed and asked which hairstylist did the work. Filling a niche by doing something others can’t is an ideal way to build a client base.

Quality #9: Perceptive

There are many reasons a person could be self-conscious, insecure, or sensitive about their appearance. Why people like or dislike the way they look is personal. To a hairstylist, thinning hair is just another styling challenge, but to clients, it can be devastating to their self-esteem. While there’s no way to accurately predict how someone feels about their appearance, it helps to look for clues. Listen to what they say about themselves and observe their body language. Do they make self-deprecating comments about themselves? Do they hesitate to make eye contact? Observation helps you be more perceptive and in tune with what your client is thinking.

Quality #10: Knowledgeable

Part of a hairstylist’s revenue comes from services, but even more, can come from product sales. Profit margins on salon-quality shampoos and conditioners are often higher than on cuts and colors, and no one is better qualified to promote them than a trusted hairstylist who knows and understands their benefits. Most clients want recommendations for the most appropriate products and are willing to pay a premium price for better brands and your advice. Selling is a skill that isn’t easy for everyone, but if you’re knowledgeable, the right products sell themselves. It’s an income booster for a hairstylist willing to go the extra mile to provide comprehensive service.

Quality #11: Well-Groomed

A hairstylist’s appearance is an audition, clients will assume you’ll put as much effort into making them look good as you do yourself. Sloppy clothing and unkempt hair don’t inspire confidence, and hygiene is a safety issue. Always come to work clean and well-dressed. A professional appearance is also the perfect way to market products and services. Sharing photos of your work is always impressive, but nothing promotes the latest hair color better than sporting it in the salon.

Quality #12: Compassionate

Fewer qualities matter more in cosmetology than compassion. You’ll see clients every day with personal care challenges, from medical conditions, like hair loss, to limited budgets. It will be up to you to help them make the most of their situation with dignity. Serving people with all needs and of all means is not only rewarding, but it helps cement your reputation in the community. If you want to reach out in a way that benefits others, consider donating time to under-served seniors and children. Nursing facilities are always looking for hairstylists willing to travel.

Quality #13: Trustworthy

Being trustworthy is among the qualities clients look for most in a hairstylist. Personal appearance is a sensitive topic for most clients, they need to trust you before sharing how they feel about their looks. It takes time to build trust by keeping their confidence and your promises, but the reward is a loyal customer base. Trust also improves teamwork and efficiency between coworkers. Employees who trust one another are willing to work harder because they aren’t worried about who’s pulling their weight. The lesson is, to be there for your colleagues, and they’ll return the favor.

Quality #14: Skilled

Practice makes perfect, but no client wants to think you’re practicing on them. There’s an expectation that you’ll be competent in your craft. Be a master of any service you offer. Since most states require continuing education to renew your cosmetology license, it won’t be hard to keep up with the latest techniques. But the more services you can offer, the more clients you’ll have. Stay on top of changes in the field and seek certifications when you can.

Quality #15: Productive

Salons depend on productivity for revenue. But maintaining productivity can be tough depending on how much attention individual clients need and your working speed. You can’t control who comes through the door and when, but supervisors will expect you to serve your share when it’s busy. You can stay ahead by maximizing efficiency and staying flexible about breaks and lunch hours.

Quality #16: Committed

What employers and coworkers want most in a hairstylist is commitment. Defined as a sense of responsibility and enthusiasm for a business’s mission, it encompasses most other qualities and encourages mutual support among colleagues.

Benefits of Hiring a Professional Hairstylist

Whether or not you’re making ready for a particular occasion or just looking to refresh your look, hiring a professional hair stylist could be a game-changer. Not only can they create lovely and personalized types that suit your unique needs, but they can additionally provide valuable advice on learning how to maintain healthy and delightful hair. Listed below are some of the benefits of hiring a professional hair stylist:

1. Experience and Experience

One of the main benefits of hiring a professional hair stylist is their expertise and experience. They have spent years training and perfecting their craft, and they’re continuously learning about the latest trends and techniques. This means they have a deep understanding of hair types, textures, and styles and may offer expert advice on how you can achieve the look you want.

Additionally, professional hair stylists have worked with a wide range of purchasers, which means they have expertise with different hair types, kinds, and preferences. They know tips on how to work with curly hair, fine hair, thick hair, and everything in between. This experience allows them to create personalized styles that might be tailored to your distinctive wants and preferences.

2. Customized Hair Providers

Once you hire a professional hair stylist, you might be getting customized expertise that is tailored to your distinctive needs. They will take the time to listen to your considerations and preferences and work with you to create a mode that makes you look and feel your best. This can contain everything from an easy trim to a complete hair transformation.

A professional hair stylist also can provide personalized advice on the way to care for your hair between appointments. They can recommend products and treatments that will keep your hair healthy, shiny, and beautiful. This personalized approach ensures that you are getting the very best care for your hair.

3. Access to High-Quality Products

Professional hair stylists have access to a wide range of high-quality hair care products that are not available to the final public. These products are formulated with high-quality ingredients that can help to improve the health and look of your hair. They will also provide custom-made deals with menus and providers which are designed to address your specific hair concerns.

For instance, a professional hair stylist could recommend a deep conditioning deal withment to help restore moisture to dry, damaged hair. They could additionally recommend a selected shampoo and conditioner that’s formulated to reinforce the color and texture of your hair. Through the use of high-quality products and deal withments, a professional hair stylist can assist in keeping your hair healthy and beautiful.

4. Stress-Free Experience

One of the biggest benefits of hiring a professional hair stylist is the stress-free experience that it provides. When you go to a professional salon, you may sit back and calm down while the stylist takes care of your hair. You do not have to worry about making mistakes or damaging your hair, because the stylist has the skills and experience to create lovely styles without causing damage.

In addition, a professional hair stylist can assist you to avoid wasting time and effort. They will create a stupendous fashion quickly and efficiently, which means you possibly can spend more time enjoying your new look and less time worrying about styling your hair at home.

5. Boosts Confidence

Finally, hiring a professional hair stylist generally is a great way to boost your confidence and self-esteem. If you look good, you are feeling good, and a professional hair stylist can assist you in achieving a mode that makes you are feeling your best. Whether you’re getting ready for a particular event or just want to feel more assured in your day-to-day life, a professional hair stylist may also help you achieve your goals.

In conclusion, hiring a professional hair stylist can provide a wide range of benefits, from expertise and experience to personalized services and high-quality products. By working with a professional, you’ll be able to achieve a fantastic and personalized model that makes you look and feel your best.

Types of Hair and Hair Texture

Hair type and texture are determined by several factors including genetics. Straight hair is one of the most common hair types across the world. Each person has a unique texture.

Type 1 is straight hair that doesn't curl. This hair type also has the most sheen, is the most resilient, and is hard to damage. It is also immensely difficult to curl this type of hair because the scalp sebum spreads easily from the scalp to the ends, making it the most oily type of hair and difficult to style.

Type 2 is wavy hair that is in between straight and curly. The sheen is in between wavy and curly. Wavy hair is also more likely to become frizzy than straight hair. Certain types of wavy hair are easy to style, whereas others are more resistant to styling.

Type 3 is curly hair that looks like the letter “S” or “Z.” This hair type is usually voluminous. It is highly climate-dependent and can become frizzy and get damaged easily. Proper care is required to maintain healthy, well-defined curls.

Type 4 is the hair that is coiled very tightly. It is often fragile with a very high density. This type of hair shrinks when wet because it has fewer cuticle layers than other hair types. It is more susceptible to damage than other hair types.

Long-Lasting Treatments to Change Hair Type

The following are the long-lasting treatments to change hair type

1. Professional permanent perming or straightening: This is a chemical process that permanently alters hair. It changes the protein bonds in the hair. The results can last for several years depending on the chemicals used. The new hair that grows would be of the person’s original hair type.

2. At-home treatments: Several chemical kits can be used to straighten or curl the hair. Some products may provide results that last a few months, whereas others may last longer.

3. Semi-permanent hair straightening: Keratin hair treatment, Brazilian blowouts and other semi-permanent hair straightening treatments can help straighten hair. They are usually done at salons. The results last three to five months.

Temporary Ways to Change Hair Type

The results typically last until the next hair wash. Temporary methods include:

1. Blow drying: Blow drying is done by blasting hot or cold air on the hair using a round or flat brush to curl or straighten hair.

2. Using hair care products: Shampoos, conditioners, leave-in conditioning products, hair serums, and hairsprays are used to coat the hair strands, reduce frizz and curls and improve hydration.

3. Applying essential oils: Using natural oils such as coconut oil, almond oil, argan oil, or a combination of oils can help improve hair texture. They can be applied all over the scalp and hair and washed after 30 to 60 minutes with shampoo and conditioner. This may be done multiple times a week.

4. Hairstyling tools: Hairstyling tools such as hair straighteners or curlers use heated plates powered by electricity that can quickly straighten or curl hair. These are easy and quick to use.

The Best Hair Styling Tips from Professional Salon Stylists

From the best hair products and styling tools to how-tos, we've got you covered with tips that will make your locks turn heads. Read more below to get the breakdown on everything you need to know about styling your own hair at home, including haircut basics, combatting frizz, finding the best styling products, and more so you can better achieve whatever look you desire.

1. Know your hair type

Getting to know your hair can prevent you from wreaking havoc on innocent strands. So, before you pick up a heating tool or brush, learn to distinguish your hair type. Hair typically falls under two categories: Fine and thick. Your hair is fine if a single strand is hard to see; you struggle with maintaining volume; and locks never feel heavy. You have fewer strands, which are super skinny. Your hair is thick if it feels coarser; bobby pins can’t hold styles in place; and your biggest problem is taming frizz. You seem to have an infinite amount of strands and they weigh a ton.

2. Start with a good haircut

Regular haircuts aren't just for removing dead ends — they can also make your hair appear thicker and full of life. A good haircut also provides a good foundation for executing any hairstyle you desire. Have flat hair that could use a little more bounce? "Try face-framing layers and short, soft layers to boost volume," says Jenny Cho, Suave Professionals celebrity stylist. When it comes to thick hair, Edward Tricomi, master stylist and co-owner of Warren-Tricomi Salons, recommends growing your hair long with density-lessening layers or lopping it off. Just avoid shoulder-length cuts — those can look too boxy and chunky, he says.

3. Choose hair products based on hair thickness

The foundation for healthy, luscious hair begins with a shampoo and conditioner formulated for your hair type, along with a deep-conditioning treatment for weekly blasts of moisture. One important takeaway when it comes to products: Different hair types have various needs. "Someone with fine, straight hair might want more lightweight formulas like mists and sprays because heavy conditioners might weigh hair down," says Danusia Wnek, chemist at the GH Beauty Lab. Someone with thick, curly hair, on the opposite end, might want richer oils and thick creams to lubricate strands and might not worry about weight down. "Selecting products specific to your hair type ensures that formulators and product developers have kept your hair type in mind when creating products," Wnek adds.

4. Become styling product-savvy

Styling products may be different in nature, but one thing remains the same: A little goes a long way. Always start with an itty-bitty amount and add more if needed.

- Hair gels are more liquid to the touch, but they dry quickly into a shiny (almost “wet”-like) hard shell. They’re best for creating spikes on short hair, slicking hair down, and defining curls.

- Hair mousse is a lighter styling foam that gives a crunch-free, voluminous look. Our Beauty Lab experts recommend the John Frieda Volume Lift Air Whipped Foam because it showed superior performance when tested in increased humidity over a period of time.

- Other finishing products, like creams and serums, are the lightest of the bunch and perfect for last-minute touch-ups. Lastly, Cho says she always has a bottle of hair oil in her makeup bag. Described as an all-in-one miracle product, it penetrates the cuticle, heals damage, calms frizz, and adds luster.

5. Get the right hair tools and accessories

Customize your arsenal to address your texture and hair type, but stock up on these fundamentals: A lightweight hair dryer that won’t elicit damage, the right hairbrushes, and Tricomi suggests getting hair ties and bobby pins that color-match your strands.

6. Learn the hairbrush basics

For everyday grooming, choose paddle brushes. When you blow-dry, use a round brush to grab every strand easily. But watch out for round brushes with metal frames — when combined with hot air from a dryer, it can heat up way too fast and burn your tresses. Your safest bet is to stick with a wooden one. But not all brushes are made equal, and when you factor in bristle types and hair texture, a brush could make or break your hair:

- For fine hair, brushes that exclusively house natural boar bristles are the best. They smooth and enhance shine without pulling or tugging.

- For normal to thick hair, try a boar-and-nylon combo to detangle; plus, you’ll get the added benefits of smoothing and creating a healthy sheen.

- Got really thick hair? A brush with nylon bristles is strong enough to help detangle gnarly knots.

7. Learn to embrace your natural texture

More and more women are starting to embrace their natural hair texture. But, after years of using hot styling tools, it might take time to understand what your hair wants and needs to look its best. For curly girls, “It’s all about using products that are curly girl friendly,” says Michelle Sultan, Creative Director for Imbue Curls. That means not using any products that might dehydrate the hair, like sulfates, mineral oils, waxes, or drying alcohols, she adds. Those with wavy hair can also use similar products to help with definition.

8. Style according to your hair type

If you have fine hair you've got some versatility when it comes to styling options. You can play with messy 'dos, experiment with chignons and low buns, and straighten or curl with ease. Ultimately, how you wear your hair depends on your personal style. For women with thick hair, on days when it tends to get heavy and want to put it up, try braids, side ponytails, or high buns. The upside to a dense 'do? “A blowout can last longer,” says Renato Campora, celebrity hairstylist for The Wall Group. “And there isn’t much of an issue with using products because hair won’t get weighed down the way fine hair would.”

9. Battle frizz for good

In a GH tester panel, 95% of testers reported dealing with frizz. There are several ways to help tame frizz, such as getting a good haircut, using cooler water, and sleeping on silk. and finding moisturizing shampoos and conditioners that work for you. "Products with high alcohol content tend to dehydrate the hair causing the hair to search for moisture," says Stephen Thevenot, a New York-based hairstylist at David Mallett Le Salon. Instead, use shampoos with hydrating ingredients or cleansing conditioners if you suffer from dry scalp.

10. Boost volume by teasing

If you have fine hair, a lasting boost can require some time commitment and skill. Enter: Teasing. The wrong way to tease hair is starting at the end, and moving the comb up and down. It’ll tangle the hair, and it’s a nightmare to comb it out. Here's how to do it right:

- Before you begin, make sure your hair is completely dry and de-knotted.

- Use a fine-tooth comb, or a tail comb, to separate a section of hair at the front; clip it to the side.

- Take a section at the crown area and hold it straight up. To avoid damage, start at the mid-shaft and push the comb down to the roots. Pull the comb out and start from the mid-shaft and backcomb again.

- Finally, comb the swept-aside section over the teased bump for a voluminous lift.

11. Learn how to curl hair like a pro

Curling your hair is a nice way to add volume if your stick-straight mane is craving some oomph. First, find a curling rod with a barrel of 1 ½ inches that has a heat setting gauge (the smaller the barrel, the tighter the curls). Fine hair doesn’t require as much heat compared with coarse hair. If you have a heat setting that spans between 1 and 10, set it to 6 for fine hair and 8 for coarse hair.

- Prep dry hair by spraying a heat thermal protector and detangling knots.

- Mist a 1 ½ -inch section near the nape of your neck with a lightweight hair spray because it defines, maintains curls and keeps them really shiny.

- Wind the section around the wand, leaving the ends untouched, for roughly five seconds. When it comes to styling the sides of your hair, tilt your head to keep a safe distance between your skin and the rod to avoid burns.

- Repeat, misting, and curling section by section until your whole head is complete.

- Once hair is cooled completely, gently pull and finger-comb the curls for a natural finish. Optional: Lightly mist hairspray all over to set.

12. Know the right way to straighten hair

Sometimes, we still want to smooth out rough ends. Pick a high-quality flat iron. If you have fine or damaged hair, set the temperature to 300 degrees or less. Average hair should be ironed at around 300-380ºF. Crank it up to 400ºF for thick, coarse strands, and always use a heat protectant. Speed matters: If you’re going too fast, your hair won’t straighten. And if you go too slow, that’s when your hair burns and damage occurs. Pass through methodically, section by section, from roots to tips until hair is pressed sleek and straight. Finish with a hydrating serum from mid-length to ends for shine, and a light hairspray at the crown to curb flyaways and frizz.

How to Choose a New Hairstylist

Choosing a new hairstylist can be nerve-wracking because you are trusting someone with a big part of your overall identity. Whether you wish for a new color or a bold haircut, you need to find the right hairstylist to execute your vision. Continue reading for easy ways to choose a new hairstylist.

1. Get Recommendations

If you love a cut or color on your friend or coworker, then ask for the name of their hairstylist. There is no better way to find a hairstylist than by looking at their work firsthand, and many stylists gain their clients through word of mouth. Many stylists and beauty salons also offer a future discount for your friend who gave the recommendation. Be sure to mention who gave you the recommendation to ensure the stylist and salon know they have happy customers.

2. Look at Pictures

If you are still looking for a hairstylist, or you are choosing between a couple of potential stylists, then look at their work online. Many stylists and hair salons will post pictures on their business websites or social media accounts. You can look at past and current pictures that show clients’ transformative haircuts. These pictures are a good indication of what you can expect from a prospective hairstylist. If there are few pictures available online, then ask the hairstylist if they have a physical collection of pictures.

3. Book an Appointment

Even if you are deciding between different hairstylists, it is important to book an appointment. This session can be for a simple hair trimming or blowout. These are easy services that do not require a lot of commitment on your part. By booking a simple service, you can get a sense of the hairstylist and beauty salon to decide if it is the right fit for you.

 

Sources:

Betterteam

Indeed

Liveabout

Meridian

Addis Agents

Garbos Salon

Hes Studios

Suede Salon

Salon De Nouveau

MedicineNet

Healthline

Good Housekeeping

Blink Lash Club

VEGA

Tutorials Point

 

The content herein is provided for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Medical information changes constantly, and therefore the content on this website should not be assumed to be current, complete or exhaustive. Always seek the advice of your doctor before starting or changing treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, please call your doctor or 9-1-1 (in the United States) immediately.