Q & A with Bella Stylist Boy, Part III (Graying and/or Aging)

Q:  What is the best solution or recommendation to combat each sign of aging hair?  Why do each of these occur?

A:

1. Texture: Change in texture to either wiry or fine and wispy can be caused by either health or hormonal factors.  For wiry textures, it is important to provide a more refined moisture base so it is able to penetrate the coarser texture.  For fine, wispy textures, it is imperative to keep the scalp as healthy as possible.  Introduce lighter moisture to the hair while still adding fullness through the use of styling products.
2. Thinning: Diminished density should be addressed similarly to the fine, wispy change in texture mentioned above.  Your stylist can also camouflage lack of density by using color to create the optical illusion of fullness.
3. Dullness: Surface dullness tends to occur more with a wiry change in texture.  It can be caused by two things: the coarser texture makes it more difficult for moisture to penetrate the hair and since it is no longer a smooth surface, the reflective quality is lost.  Blow-drying hair more smoothly and adding a shine product to your regimen can help solve this issue.
4. Dryness: Increased dryness is caused by the changes occurring on the scalp and hair due to the body’s decreased ability to produce moisture.  A change in diet, such as increasing your intake of omega acids, and the use of a hydrating shampoo, conditioner and treatment based on your particular hair type can alleviate this issue.
5. Brittleness: Fragility and breakage occur as aging reduces the integrity of the hair structure.  Unfortunately, this problem is unavoidable, but can be eased through the use of products that will strengthen the hair.
6. Graying: Gray hair occurs as the body quits producing melanin, which gives hair its color.  Be sure your stylist alters your color formula as your natural color and texture change.

Q:  What is the difference between chronic and temporary hair loss?  What are the causes of each?

A:  Chronic hair loss is the result of a variety of ongoing problems that render the body incapable of efficiently absorbing nutrients.  Temporary hair loss is attributed to illness, thyroid, seasonal changes, medication, stress, pregnancy or menopause.  A third category of hair loss is hereditary; although this is not preventable, it can be slowed with the proper diet, lifestyle and products.

Q & A with Bella Stylist Boy, Part II (Graying and/or Aging)

Q:  What hair style trends are best for making you look 10 years younger?

A:  Two silhouettes should be taken into consideration – the outer shape of the hairstyle and the shape created around the face.  Don’t be misled into thinking you need to go shorter as you age – this is not always true!  The overall rule should be to avoid accentuating any problem areas you may have.

Q:  What is your most important recommendation to mature clients for keeping their hair in good condition?

A:  Always see a professional for your color services.  They will know which colors to use to create shine, dimension and to accentuate hair quality.  Also, be aware of how your hair is changing and make adjustments based upon its needs.

Q:  What regimen do you recommend for clients with thinning hair?

A:  I highly recommend Phyto products because I use them myself and see results.  The important thing is to address the needs of both the hair AND the scalp.  Phytolium Shampoo and Treatment will address both of these by removing excess DHT from the scalp and boosting circulation and hair growth.

Q & A with Bella Stylist Boy, Part I (Graying and/or Aging)

Q:  What are your hair/hair product “dos” and "don'ts"?

A:  Hair typically takes one of two routes when aging – wiry texture or thinning out.  Do change your styling products as these changes occur.  While all aging hair needs moisture, thinning textures also benefit from styling products that add volume.  Don’t think one product will do the job; there is no single product that effectively moisturizes and creates volume!

Q:  Which anti-aging hair products can you not live without and why?

A:  For starters, Phytodensium Shampoo and Phytobaume Volume because they give hair a healthier, fuller texture without that “product” feel.  For moisture and shine, I love to supplement this duo with Phytokeratine Shampoo and Phytobaume Repair.

Q:  Which ingredients should you look for to maintain aging hair?

A:  This is a tricky question.  I recommend focusing on decreasing the quantity of damaging ingredients you use.  One major way to accomplish this is to use a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner.  Don’t be concerned if a product contains alcohol; some alcohols are necessary to prevent the formation of bacteria and to dry certain styling products.

6th Annual Cut It For a Cause

Don’t miss Bella Bethesda Salon’s 6th annual Cut It for a Cause campaign benefiting Locks of Love! This year’s event will run from Sunday, February 9th through Saturday, February 15th and offers a complimentary haircut and blow dry to any guest willing to donate at least 10 inches of hair.

We are so thankful to everyone who has participated in years past and to those participating this year. Such a simple gift will provide a child with restored confidence and normalcy. Thank you from the Bella Bethesda staff for your kindness.

It's not too late to help us top last year's total of 753 inches! Call 301.718.9111 today to make your reservation!