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Changed Your Hair Color? Better Change Your Makeup!

3/30/2016

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By Lora Brown
applying makeup

If you have recently updated your hair color, you might think you’ve given yourself a whole new style. However, you may have forgotten one important element: changing your makeup.

When you make a big change with your hair color, it’s likely your makeup isn’t exactly fitting the bill. After all, hair color has a big effect on the way your skin looks, and how you should enhance specific features on your face.

Don’t fret though, we’ve got you covered with a few simple tips and tricks.
​
Blondes
If you’ve gone blonde recently, you’ll want to choose makeups that make your face pop. Experts explain that golden locks, because of their fair nature, do very little to frame the face naturally, so highlighter and bronzer or blush are needed. More yellow blondes should stick with peach or pink blush, while golden blondes are better off going with bronzers.

Blondes should avoid black eyeliners and super-dark shadows. Both can look jarring and harsh against fair hair. A softer color like charcoal or eggplant liners are the right way to make those eyes pop for blondes. For the lips, a pop of bright pink really compliments blondes of all shades.

Red Heads
If you’ve recently gone ginger, you’ll probably need to change your entire game plan. Red hair is striking, so avoid matching your face to your hair. Creamy colors, and light pinks are the best bet for your cheekbones.

The eyes can get a bit more intense to truly make them stand out against your fiery locks. Experts suggest utilizing greens to make your eyes stand out while complementing your red hair.

The lips are where many new redheads get in trouble. To avoid clashing, lip color should be kept subtle and subdued. Experts suggest going with a light pink or shimmery shade, and avoiding reds.

Brunettes
Black hair is tough to pull off because it is harsh to begin with. To offset dark hair, makeup artists suggest aiming for an alabaster complexion, if you can. Avoiding heavy bronzer and blushes can help to keep your look soft and feminine.

Around the eyes, dark-haired ladies should use dark eyeliner and mascara to make their eyes pop, but can completely forgo eyeshadow. If you feel naked without shadows, try champagne shades or a light shimmer. What you lose in eye color you can make up with a vivid lip, advise experts.

If you are considering a new hair color, or simply want to refresh your style, call the professionals at The Salon by Lora Brown.


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4 Easy Ways To Update Your HairStyle For Spring

3/28/2016

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By Lora Brown
spring hairstyles
A change of seasons often means a change in appearance. As spring enters full bloom, you're probably checking out the latest fashions and freshening up your home. This is also a great time to redo your 'do so you can start this season of new beginnings with a brand new you.

Drastic hairstyles are an awesome way to put a fresh face forward to the world, but if you're not ready to lob off all of your locks, here are some simple changes you can make to update your hairstyle for spring.


Twist And Shout
Keeping your length can be just as interesting as chopping it all off if you find the right inspiration. Today's braids aren't the same styles you knew as a kid; there's an entire world of wonderful hair creations that start from a few sections of strands. Peruse the internet for twists that capture your interest, then capture those images. With photos in hand, a great stylist should be able to craft your captivating creations.

Part The Way To A New Beginning
It can be easy to fall into the same style, especially when you're used to wearing your natural part. Switch things up by simply changing the place from which you part your hair. If you usually let your hair split from the left, head to the other side of your head to give your roots an uplifting experience. Switching to a center part or vice versa can make a surprisingly drastic change to the way you look, too.

Bangin’ Bangs
It doesn't matter if you have long or short hair, bangs will make a dramatic change to your image. This quick cut will frame your face, make your eyes pop, and completely alter the way people see you.

Before you start chopping, check out these tips for specific face shapes:
  • Square: Heavy bangs help soften the face with a dramatic look that showcases those peepers.
  • Round: Go with thick bangs that hit just above the brow to give the illusion that your face is a bit longer.
  • Heart-Shaped: Side-swept bangs are great for heart-shaped faces because they give a less top-heavy appeal.
  • Oval: Find a look that feels right because this is a versatile face shape that wears any bang well!
    ​
Go Glossy
A 30-minute gloss treatment at a salon can revive live into your locks.

A new look for the new season is within your reach! Contact the hair experts at The Salon by Lora Brown, and let us put a new spring in your step!

hair styles for spring
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4 Hair Product Ingredients That Will Ruin Your Hair

3/23/2016

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By Lora Brown
hair product ingredients

With so many hair care products on the market, it's hard to decide which to try and which to avoid. When shopping for products, steer clear of these four harmful ingredients.

1. Isopropyl Alcohol
Otherwise known as rubbing alcohol, it's not hard to see why you wouldn’t want this ingredient anywhere near your hair. You're most likely to find isopropyl alcohol in products that claim to give your hair volume, texture and all-day hold. The problem is that those benefits are achieved by seriously drying out strands of hair to hold them in place.

2. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
Have you ever wondered what makes your shampoo and face wash foamy? It could be this potentially harmful product. The compounds that cause products to foam and lather are sulfates, which can irritate skin. When added to shampoo and cosmetic products, sodium lauryl sulfate can dry out the skin and cause dandruff or dermatitis. Even worse, it can compromise cells and allow other toxic materials to enter the bloodstream.

3. Polyethylene Glycol
Can you find this ingredient in hair products? Yes. Can you also find it in commercial oven cleaners? You sure can. In fact, that's the intended use for polyethylene glycol. The ingredient has been added to beauty products promising to remove scalp build-up. However, unless you're styling your hair with French fry grease, this industrial strength cleaner isn't only unnecessary, it's not exactly safe for your skin.

4. Synthetic Scents
Most of us are guilty of choosing a new product based on its scent. Whether you're into flowery fragrances or sweet vanilla aromas, you'll find a pleasing scent in the beauty and hair care aisle. For those with sensitive skin, the chemicals used to create those scents can be extremely irritating. A much better option is products that use essential oils or other natural ingredients. Your scalp will thank you.

5. Propylene Glycol
Promising sleek and shiny tresses, products that contain propylene glycol may get the job done, but there's definitely a cost. To create the healthy, shiny look, these products strip the hair by breaking down the cellular structure and natural proteins. Products with this ingredient cause hair to become weaker over time and more vulnerable to other harsh products.
​
Choosing products with natural ingredients like vitamins and oils will help to protect your hair while you style. The stylists at The Salon by Lora Brown can help you find a look you, and your hair, will love. We use only the best hair care products available on the market, such as Oribe.


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Can You Pull Off Rose Gold Hair?

3/21/2016

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By Lora Brown
rose hold hair
Pastel hair is still a hot trend this year. Some have chosen to go bold with purple and turquoise. Others have opted for more subtle change, such as lavender or light pink. If you're thinking about joining in on the trend and choosing rose gold hair, check out our guide to decide if this look will work for you.

Is Rose Gold Right for You?
Not everyone can pull off every color. The rose gold shade works best for those with a fair complexion, pink undertones to their skin and hair that naturally has red tones. Because rose gold is a light shade, it's much easier to create for those who have blonde hair.

Subtle or Solid?
For those who aren't sure about diving into the colored hair trend, or those who may not have the ideal complexion for rose gold, highlights may be the solution. Bringing color to just a few sections of hair can give any cut a more feminine and glam look.

​For more of an impact, choose a rose gold ombre. This is a great solution for brunettes as well as those who don't want to put as much effort into maintaining an all over look. Finally, choosing an all-over rose gold can give your hair a fun, funky, cotton candy look that will spark hair envy everywhere you go.


Rose Gold for Brunettes
While naturally light hair is easier to transform into a rose gold shade, brunettes can get in on the trend as well. The trick is to develop the color through a series of several steps. First, your stylist will lighten the ends of your hair to become a bright blonde. Then, a hair painting technique can be applied to the ends, as well as through highlights starting at the top of the hair. Finally, a gloss layer can pull the look together, preventing the transition from brunette to rose gold from looking too harsh.

Maintaining the Look
Because pastel shades are becoming so popular, many at-home hair care brands are trying to cash in on the trend. However, there aren't any at-home products that will allow you to freshen up a rose gold look while keeping it pretty and polished. You'll need to be willing to go back for frequent salon visits to keep up with your look.

Go For The [Rose] Gold
If you're ready to show off a new style, contact the hair professionals at The Salon by Lora Brown. We'll work with you to find the color and cut to give your hair a whole new look.

Photo Credit: yourhairrev via Compfight cc
spring 2016 hair trends
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Is Leave-In Conditioner The Same As Dry Conditioner?

3/17/2016

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By Lora Brown
sleek smooth hair
Does it seem like the hair care aisle is getting larger and larger every time you walk into a store? Hair care is a complex process and there definitely seems to be a flurry of new products and styling options on the market today.

Dry conditioner is one of the newer items to go mainstream, but many people seem stymied by the product. Dry shampoo appears to have a clear and important role in our daily hair care routine, but what exactly is dry conditioner? In fact, some people seem confused about the difference between dry conditioner and leave-in conditioner.

Are Dry Conditioner And Leave-In Conditioner The Same?
While they both have the word "conditioner" in the name, leave-in and dry models are nothing alike. Leave-in conditioner is generally a wet formula, while dry conditioner is an aerosol. They are also used for different purposes and during different points in your styling regime. Think of leave-in conditioner as a “before” styling product, while dry conditioner is intended to come to the rescue after your hair has been styled and is in need of a pick-me-up.

What's The Point Of Leave-in Conditioner?
Leave-in conditioner is a great way to ensure your hair is getting a healthy dose of moisture, and to tame fly-aways and frizz. It also aids in detangling and can help ensure your hair is manageable during the styling process.

Leave-in conditioners should be put in your hair when it is still damp from shampooing and conditioning, and combed through the hair with a wide-tooth comb. You can dry then style your hair as you normally would.

What’s The Purpose Of Dry Conditioner?
Dry conditioner is a quick way to help your hair get the extra moisture it needs when you don't have time to wash and style it. The conditioner should be sprayed on the scalp, avoiding the ends. You can then brush through for instant shine and revitalization. They are helpful in keeping your hair looking healthy between washing and styling, and should be in the hair arsenal of every girl-on-the-go.

If you are looking for a product to refresh hair, we suggest the Oribe Thick Dry Finishing Spray and the Dry Texture Spray.

Now that you know the basics, it's time to find the perfect leave-in conditioner and dry conditioner for your hair type. If you feel overwhelmed by all the options on the market, call the professionals at The Salon by Lora Brown in Amarillo. We'll be happy to help you find a conditioner that meets your needs and give you a gorgeous cut, color and style!

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Should You Really Be Using Matching Shampoo And Conditioner?

3/14/2016

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By Lora Brown
Picture
Many companies will try to sell you on the idea that their shampoo and conditioner work together as a formula to help treat hair. They assume your hair is the same texture and type from your scalp down to the tips of your hair. Typically, your hair won't fit completely into one category, so why would you use only one formula?

Why You Shouldn’t Necessarily Use The Same Formula Shampoo And Conditioner

The truth is your hair is actually broken down into two distinct areas. The first is the area from the scalp and roots down to about the midshaft of the hair. The second section runs from the middle of your hair all the way down to the ends.

​To get your hair looking and performing its best, you should approach hair problems the same way you would a medical situation. Consider the condition of each section of your hair and determine the prescription that will best remedy each problem.


The first part of your hair care cocktail should be the shampoo. Shampoo's primary responsibility is to clean and treat the scalp and upper part of your hair. You need to start with a shampoo that will work best with the condition of your scalp.

Your conditioner choice will be based on the condition of your tips as well as the type of styling you are planning. For example, if your hair is wavy, use a volumizing formula for days you want to go natural and one with a smoothing formula for days you want to wear it straight.

The only hair condition where it is important to use two matching brands would be if you suffer from dandruff. Dandruff formulas use chemicals that specifically react with each other to treat the scalp condition so mixing them may make them less effective.

Your Hair Is Always Changing


It is important to remember that as you age and journey through life, your hair and scalp will change considerably. Make an assessment about the current state of your hair before choosing a product. Just because you spent most of your teenage years suffering from oily hair, odds are changes in lifestyle, hormones and diet have probably changed the texture and makeup of your locks.

If you are struggling to find the perfect prescription for your hair and are interested in a hair assessment, contact the professionals at The Salon by Lora Brown today for a consultation. 

​

healthy hair food
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4 Perfect Hairstyles For An Easy Breezy Spring Break

3/10/2016

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By Lora Brown
spring break hairstyles
Spring break is the perfect time for embracing a more natural, casual, or even messy look. Check out a few of our favorite easy breezy styles that are ideal for relaxing by the pool or sipping a margarita on the beach.

Embrace The Waves
Those with naturally wavy hair may feel the day-to-day pressure to define their curls or ironing their hair into a sleek, straight look. During spring break, let your natural look shine. Forget the curling irons and straighteners. Instead, grab a texturizing spray.

We love Oribe’s Dry Texturizing Spray and Oribe Apres Beach Wave & Shine Spray. While your hair is still wet, twist it into sections to create a piecey style. Spray in a bit of texturizing product and let your hair air dry for a cool, effortless look.


Overnight Waves
Even if your hair is lacking in the texture department, you can still achieve beachy waves without investing much time or effort. In fact, you can get the look overnight.

Start with damp hair and spritz on a bit of texturizing spray. Divide the hair into four equal sections and braid each section. Secure the end of each braid with a hair tie or bobby pins. Get some beauty sleep and take out the braids in the morning. You'll find gorgeous, flowy waves.


Bring On The Color
Spring break is notorious for being a vacation from real life and a time when you can let loose. Why not go all out and take part in a trend that you might shy away from back home? Try out the pastel color trend to instantly get your hair into vacation mode. Not ready to take the plunge? Try an ombre or soft sombre.

Braid Away
Braids will always be the answer to bad hair days and late mornings. The look is perfect for a lazy spring break day, too. Try a simple braid or French braid. Or change it up by trying out a fishtail braid. Start by separating your hair into two sections. Take a small section from one side and bring it over to join the other side. Do the same with the opposite. Continue back and forth until you reach the end of your hair. Secure it with a hair tie and you're done.

Quick and simple hairstyles are great for week-long getaways. When you're ready to revamp your look or just want a quality cut and style, visit The Salon by Lora Brown. Our stylists will work with you to find a cut, color, and style that you'll love. For more information and to set up an appointment, contact us today. We also offer hair tutorials so you can perfect that beachy wave and fishtail braid on your own.

​
Looking for more spring hairstyles? Download our free Spring Hair Trends Infographic!

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Are You Using Dry Conditioner The Right Way?

3/7/2016

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By Lora Brown
dry conditioner oribe
Dry shampoo is a must-have for on-the-go ladies around the country. Dry shampoo, a product that helps reduce grease and restore hair to a just-washed look without the process of actually washing the hair, is pretty well understood, but dry conditioner has been popping up more and more frequently.

This product might seem mysterious or even unnecessary, but, we assure you, there is a time and place for dry conditioner. Let's go over the basics.


What Is Dry Conditioner?
Dry conditioner is an aerosol formula that contains moisturizing molecules. The formula for each dry conditioner is different, but they all aim to protect, freshen and liven up lifeless hair between washings. The conditioner you pick will have a specific formula, but we like the Oribe Soft Dry Conditioner Spray.

Dry conditioners can work for a myriad of different hair types, but experts caution curly-haired ladies to opt for a serum. Women with curls are advised not to brush their hair, and dry conditioner really works best when brushed through.

Do I Really Need To Use It?
Dry conditioner is definitely a helpful tool to keep your hair looking fresh and fabulous all day long. Winter conditions can wreak havoc on your hair, and static is no one's best friend. Dry conditioners can help with both of these problems. Use dry conditioner in conjunction with dry shampoo if you are looking to make a hairstyle last between washing.

You might also want to use dry conditioner after the gym, or after coming in from the cold. It can help protect your hair from the harsh conditions it just underwent without much effort. Spraying some on the length of your hair before you hit it with hot, hair tools. It can help prevent breakage and protect your hair from the heat.

What Is The Best Application Of Dry Conditioner?
Dry conditioner should be sprayed on the lengths of your hair, focusing on the ends, from about six to eight inches away. However, if you are using the Dry Texture Spray by Oribe (which is like a dry shampoo), spray it at the base of the scalp. You'll want to hold the bottle upright to ensure an even distribution of product. Distribute the product over the entirety of your hair's length and ends. Once the product has coated your hair, use a soft paddle brush to work the product into your hair. That's all you need to do. There is no further styling required.

If you have any questions or concerns about product application, don't hesitate to call the professionals at The Salon by Lora Brown. We'll be happy to walk you through the process and help you find a product that fits your style!

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Why Use Leave-In Conditioner?

3/2/2016

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By Lora Brown
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Every woman wants gorgeous, shiny hair. But not every woman knows how to achieve that goal. With so many hair care products (specifically, conditioners) available, it’s difficult to determine the right one for you. But one thing’s certain: Healthy hair requires the use of leave-in conditioner.  

Purpose And Benefits Of Leave-In Conditioner

You may be thinking, “I use conditioner each time I shampoo, so why do I need to bother with a leave-in conditioner?” Well, for numerous reasons, but mostly because regular shampooing, blow-drying, styling, and dying leaves your locks stripped of vital nutrients and moisture. And Mother Nature can do a number on them, too.

That’s the bad news. The good news is that there’s a solution to all this damage happening to your hair every day — leave-in conditioner. Here’s why you should consider adding one to your hair care routine:
  • It acts as a barrier before styling, helping to protect your hair from damage.
  • It makes your tresses more manageable.
  • It strengthens the core structure of your hair.
  • It adds a deeper level of moisturization.
  • It makes detangling easier, which results in less breakage.
Whatever your hair problem, leave-in conditioner is the answer. Even naturally oily hair benefits from regular use of this miracle product. It’s not just for hair that’s already damaged or excessively dry. Even if your hair seems healthy now, starting a leave-in conditioning routine will help keep it that way.

Finding The Right Leave-In Conditioner For Your Hair

So where do you start? How do you know which leave-in conditioner works best? This decision depends mostly on your hair texture. Is it dry, damaged, or oily? A conditioner that yields amazing results for one person may leave your tresses heavy and weighed-down. The key to any leave-in conditioner is to omit the scalp.

If you’re convinced you need to begin using a leave-in conditioner but don’t know how to get started, reach out to the hair pros at the Salon by Lora Brown. As a luxury salon, we offer an extraordinary hair care experience complete with knowledgeable staff members. Give us a call when you’re ready to restore hair health and make your locks gorgeous again!

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    Lora Brown

    Lora Brown is a master stylist and the owner of The Salon by Lora Brown. She has worked in the salon industry for 30 years.

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