Hair
Tell Frizz to F*ck Off: Best Hair Products to Beat the Heat
It’s summer…and your hair knows it. Guest blogger Hayden of Pretty In My Pocket is back at it, telling us the best products to keep our hair as smooth as a Justin Timberlake tune when humidity is high.
(Because that Friends episode still haunts us ladies who have potential for frizzy situations…)
Summer boosts several beauty benefits like a dewy glow (click HERE to make sure it’s not a sweaty glow), natural highlights, and sun-kissed skin. But one fiasco many females face in the heat is an unwanted flyaway fro. While everyone’s hair is different, we are all prone to full-on frizz or frustrating fuzz with amped up humidity in the air. Was there a flame near your head or did someone just rub a balloon on it? Let’s avoid that question, shall we? Depending how curly, coarse, dry, damaged, or fine your hair is, there are some basic ways to tame that runaway renegade hair halo.
The Wash
It starts with a solid shower routine. A key ingredient to successful taming: Moisture. Sun, salt water, chlorine, and general rough summer play can suck the life out of your hair. Shampoo and condition with products like Alterna Bamboo Smooth Anti-Frizz Shampoo & Conditioner ($22). If you have fine hair, opt for a light moisturizing formula like Nexxus Hydra-Light Weightless Moisture Shampoo & Conditioner ($11). And don’t be scerred to skip days between washes! Take a volumizing dry shampoo like Marc Anthony 2nd Day Clear Dry Shampoo ($10) to day-old hair to pump up texture and minimize stripping your hair of its natural oils.
The Styling
Make nice with your mane. Beat-up, over-styled, over-heated locks make frizz rear its ugly head…on your pretty head. Give your hair some drank and apply an anti-frizz serum or cream like Blow Pro Weather Girl Pure Anti-frizz Serum ($22) or Josie Maran Argan Oil hair serum ($30) before blowdrying. (And always squeeze and blot the hair dry, not rub.) For finer and/or oiler hair (Wassup, strand sisters!), be cautious with serums as they can make you greasy. Always select lightweight products like Living Proof’s Weightless Styling Spray ($26) or John Frieda’s new Frizz-Ease Sheer Solution ($10) and use a minimal amount. For curly cuties, opt for a product that’ll enhance your natural texture but tame frizz like Aveda’s Be Curly Curl Enhancer ($22) or Bumble and Bumble’s Curl Conscious Calming Cream ($29). For natural, very curly/coarse, and/or unruly hair, turn to Carol’s Daughter for your strand saviors. And always remember two things: 1) When it comes to serum/oil/cream, a little goes a long way, and 2) Go light on your roots or keep it away from that region altogether if you want to skip a day or two of shampooing/styling.
When brushing wet hair, go old school and use a wide-tooth comb. When blowdrying, don’t forget all the knowledge W+P dropped on your regarding the actual dryer and boar bristle brushes. Using a concentrator on the nozzle will give you a smoother blowout, but just remember to keep the dryer moving at all times; holding it on one piece of hair for too long will fry it. If you use a lot of heating tools, try to skip a day between flat-ironing the shiz out of your tresses. As for the finishing touches, you can lightly smooth/spray on an anti-frizz shine spray like John Frieda’s Frizz-Ease Shine Glossing Mist ($6) if you have normal or drier hair (it can weigh down finer or oilier strands). Hairspray can be loaded with alcohol leaving locks dry and frizz-prone, so steer clear or use sparingly.
The Treatments
Once a week (no matter your hair type), apply a deep conditioning treatment like the indulgent Oribe Signature Moisture Masque ($59) or W+P’s favorite Recitals Mud Masque ($36) and leave in for 10 minutes. If you’re soaking up the sun a ton, use a mask like Fekkai Advanced After Sun Daily Mask ($25). This is also great for color-treated hair as it protects hair from UV rays and fading.
In short, there are several ways to tame frizz before, during, and after your wash and style sessions. Everyone’s hair is different, so take it slow when figuring out what’s best for you. Try one product at at time, and either add another step to your routine or switch it out for another product. Stay smooth, my friends.
♥,
Hayden
And hey, you! Don’t forget to check out and download the Pretty In My Pocket app for way more product reviews, expert recommendations, GIVEAWAYS/perks, and overall beauty awesomeness! It will change your beauty game.
WTF Was Up With Chelsea Handler’s Hair Last Night?
In case you didn’t know, Chelsea Handler is my #1 idol and inspiration. I think she is so incredibly talented, down-to-earth, and a genuinely good person. We share the same passion for vodka (and alcohol in general), our dogs look alike, AND we have the same middle name, Joy. Her hilarity and comedic genius go without saying.
But I think we all know she’s had her fair share of style snafus on the show (seriously, sometimes I thought her stylist was f*cking with her), but last night was the first time I saw a beauty blunder like this:
What. Is. That. Hair?
I feel like there should be 234820934 little butterfly clips nestled in the back. Or…maybe there are?! And is there a cornrow situation happening? I can’t even…
Now, I am all about a messy updo and even the headband accent (duh, remember this post?), but this is just baffling. I mean, maybe it would have been acceptable in the ’90s…on a middle school girl. Here’s a video clip so you can get the full effect:
If Chelsea hadn’t washed her hair in a few days (like I roll), they could have dry shampooed it and put it in a sleek pony. Or a bun. Or a braid. Or a Topsy Tail. Or ANYTHING but this. Maybe it will come out that this disaster was on purpose and the joke’s on us. Maybe her hair person was high. Maybe Chelsea was drunk and insisted on this style. Maybe she’s taking beauty tips from Brad Wollack. Maybe Chuy did her ‘do (I actually think that might be it).
Whatever the case, it doesn’t make me love her any less. I just wish I could have been there to intervene. Chels, just say the word and we’ll gladly move Witty + Pretty HQ to L.A. in your time of need. I hear the vodka country is beautiful this time of year.
LYLAS,
Ashley Joy
Hairapy Session: Blowdryers That Give You the Best Hair
Ladies with cheap blowdryers: If you’re not ready to part with that tool for a pricier piece, stop reading right here.
But if you’re considering dumping the zero and getting with a hero, carry on…
I’ve fluctuated between expensive and cheap blowdryers for the past decade or so. I even did a post on the “best” cheap ones, which I’m now ashamed of because I have seen the light (don’t search for it; I erased it). During my hairapy session a few months ago with stylist/guru Bill Murphy (remember his product line?) when we discussed why my hair wasn’t as full as it used to be, he said I had breakage from my blowdryer and asked what kind I used.
BUSTED. I had been using a $30 Remington I thought was decent. He explained to me that a quality blowdryer just can’t be made on the cheap because of the motor it needs to have and all the other fancy technology, and for a good one that will treat your tresses right and not cause breakage, you need to drop at least 100 bones. I knew he was right. Why do you think you can’t achieve the same blowout a stylist gives you? Sure, they’re professionals, but a lot of it has to do with the tools. I took Bill’s advice and purchased the same dryer he uses in his salon and swears by, the Italian-made Twin Turbo 2600.
It was love at first blow.
Wait, that came out wrong…
But seriously, I saw a huge difference when I used it for the first time. My hair was softer and silkier with NO frizzies or flyaways; needless to say, it looked way prettier, too. Did I whip my hair back and forth more than usual that night? I think you know the answer to that.
I purchased mine at Bill’s salon (it comes with two concentrator attachments), but you can find these online for $100 and up ($90 on sale!). The Hair Guru also recommends the Izunami G6 ceramic dryer, which is used in the salon, too. Of course there are other quality options out there, so here are five things to look for if you’re thinking of upgrading:
1. 1875 watts or more. I say go for 2600 (the more power, the better), but anything under 1875 probably isn’t going to cut it.
2. “EMF shield” or “low EMF.” The Electro Magnetic Field is what causes damage to your hair as well as frizz and flyaways, so nip that sh*t in the bud head.
3. Ceramic. This has to do with coils and other technological, internal things that dry your locks better. The Twin Turbo isn’t ceramic, so it’s not a must, but still a plus.
4. Warranty. If the dryer doesn’t have at least a 1-year “we’ll fix this with no questions asked” warranty, don’t even think about it.
5. Authenticity. Don’t be fooled by the $40 one that looks EXACTLY like the $100 one and claims to work just like it. It doesn’t.
Also, remember that top-notch dryers last longer; Bill says his Twin Turbos last four years or more and he’s using them all day everyday. This site seems to be a good resources for the top blowdryers and you could always ask a trusted stylist if he/she has recommendations.
As for brushes, I picked up a new one of those, too. Check out THE TURBO DREAM TEAM:
That’s a Chi Turbo large round boar brush ($15-$20). For the best blowout, look for 100% natural boar bristle brushes. Ceramic is also great in a brush you’re using with a blowdryer as it heats the hair healthily. Some salon-recommended brands are Marilyn and Denman, but there are plenty of badass bristles out there–Ulta has the best selection I’ve seen. And Bill is coming out with his own brush line, the Encore Series, this summer, so I’ll definitely be reporting on that.
And if you have a hot date tonight and don’t even want to dry your hair with your ol’ cheapie, don’t panic–you’ve survived this long without going bald; you can still use it (I used mine for a while after my hairapy session before I pulled the trigger on the Twin Turbo). Just consider upping your game with the tools for your tresses now that you have the intel.
Take care of those lovely locks, ladies.
LYLAS,
Ashley
10 Tips To Make Your Bikini Wax Less Painful
Remember the tears in my eyes during my first bikini wax? (If not, click HERE.) It absolutely has gotten better over time, but let’s be real–you’re ripping hair out of your skin in a sensitive area, so (some sort of) pain is a given, ESPECIALLY if you’re going Brazilian. I consulted two of Atlanta’s top hair removal experts, Myka Barbato of WAX and Raquel Souza of Sweet Peach Wax & Sugaring Studio, to share their expert tips for less ouch factor.
1. Meds. Both pros recommend taking your normal dosage of ibuprofen/aspirin 30 minutes to an hour before. It can reduce pain but also help with potential inflammation.
2. Alcohol. You can have one or two drinks to take the edge off, but Myka says, “Not too many! Alcohol thins the blood and you don’t want to be more prone to bruising, etc. just from too many cocktails!”
3. Your period. Good Lawwwd, don’t go getting waxed right before your cycle is supposed to start as you’re more sensitive down there up to three days before. You can also be sensitive up to three days after, but once you’re past that point, it’s a perfect time for a hoo-ha haircut because as Myka says, “The grow-out period isn’t so hard to bear because the last week you are most likely on your cycle and probably not getting any action anyways.” #TRUTH.
4. Pregnancy. Myka says, “During the first two trimesters, it’s business as usual, but the last one can be more sensitive.” That’s not to say it can’t be done (hello, you’re going to want to be groomed right before you have a crowd of people down there cheering on your vagina), but just be sure to go to a top-notch salon (like WAX or Sweet Peach) as they know how to handle a delicate mom-to-be.
5. Exfoliation. Raquel recommends exfoliating the area within the 24 hours before your appointment for a smoother ride. As I’ve mentioned before, I die for the sugar peach scrub exclusively sold at Sweet Peach ($20). Also, if you can take a warm shower or bath prior to your treatment, it will help open up the pores for easier and less painful hair removal.
6. Distract yourself. Chat with your waxer, make a mental to-do list, or even text/email/Facebook on your phone (no X-rated Instagrams, please). I recommend asking politely if your aesthetician minds you using your phone during the treatment, but she won’t. She gets it. (Just don’t sext with your man; being turned on during a wax could get awkward quick.) At Sweet Peach, Sex and the City plays in the treatment rooms, so I actually get excited to go and see which episode is on. Nothing like seeing Miranda’s full bush while you’re getting yours removed.
7. Numbing cream + panties. If you’re really scared of pain, Raquel recommends Dr. Edna’s BareEASE prep kit ($18-$22, available online and at Sweet Peach). Forty-five minutes prior to the treatment, you put the topical analgesic cream on the area, then slide on the latex panty to isolate the application. It’s safe and doctor-developed, and many of Raquel’s clients swear by it. I tried it and did notice less pain, but nothing takes away ALL of the discomfort (except like, an epidural).
8. Post-treatment activity. Your “baby” skin is so sensitive right after hair removal that wearing tight clothing/working out or getting your freak on within the following 24-48 hours can irritate the area leading to bumps, pimples, and ingrown hairs (OUCHIE), so keep that in mind when making an appointment. With sugaring, there’s generally less or no irritation (I can work out within 24 hours with no issues), but still keep tabs on how your body reacts. And for the love of God, don’t go getting a spray tan right after a wax/sugaring unless you are wearing thick-ass panties that cover the entire treated area. Trust me on this one.
9. Wait time. Don’t go TOO long between treatments or it can make for a more uncomfortable experience the next time (in more ways than one). Everyone is different, but three weeks to a month is ideal. I think we’ve all pushed it past the limit during those winter droughts, but when you wait two months or more, you’re getting into scary territory.
10. Shaving. Ladies, I know the scenario. Some hot guy asks you on an impromptu date/your long-distance booty call flies in town unexpected/the ex shows up on your doorstep with flowers and a much hotter physique since the breakup…….and you’re rocking full ’70s bush. You could take a razor down there, but know that if you’re a regular waxer/sugarer, this could lead to ingrowns and make your treatment more painful next time. So what’s a girl to do? I say embrace the bush. He’ll understand; or better yet, he might really dig it and you’ll be getting down like Joanie and Chachi in no time. If he’s turned off by it, send that loser packing. Then put on Sex and the City and call it a (pain-free) night.
Good luck out down there, sisters!
LYLAS,
Ashley
**I’m giving away one Brazilian wax from WAX and one Brazilian sugaring from Sweet Peach. Head on over to the Witty + Pretty Facebook page to find out how to win!**
GIVEAWAY: Recitals Hair Care (the Magical Mud Masque)
Despite the fact that I’m often rocking a ponytail, disheveled bun (I still can’t master the sock bun #FML), or hat (when I haven’t shampooed in a couple days), I do consider my hair an asset. You know how some lucky bitches ladies love their naturally long lashes or 24-inch waists? Well I’m proud of my lovely lady locks, so you can understand my vanity panic (c’mon, we’ve all had it) when I thought my hair was getting thinner a few months ago. (FYI, when I find my first gray, everyone better take cover because it will not be pretty…or witty).
This was around the time when I met Atlanta celeb stylist Bill Murphy and we had a major hairapy session discussing supplements, blow dryer breakage (more on that later), and products, specifically HIS new product line, Recitals. Because like it or not, your hair is performing on the mane stage every day.
Bill is SO big on hair health (seriously you guys, he’s a guru) and his product line could not be better for your tresses; after he used them on me, I could tell an immediate difference. The shampoo and conditioner are incredible for everyday, but using the Maestro Mud Masque once or twice a week will give you the softest strands EVER, plus it helps repair damage (to use, I shampoo, wring excess water from my hair, apply and leave in for 7ish minutes, then rinse). As for styling products, the Melody Moisture Miracle Hair Crème is pretty miraculous; it’s a leave-in conditioner that also acts as a straightening and protecting blowdry serum. The Bolero Molding Gel is another miracle worker that amps up body for both straight and curly tresses. And I REALLY applaud the Ovation Volumizing Spray Oil for the grand finale; you don’t need a lot and it fights frizz while giving you volume and gorgeous shine.
I’m giving away three full-size Maestro Mud Masques ($36) and our friend Bill is going to throw in some samples of the other products so the lucky winners can try them, too. 
How to win is a little different today. To enter, head on over to the Witty + Pretty Facebook page and leave a comment on the post about Recitals stating what you love about your hair (your natural (or unnatural) color, crazy curls, the fact that you CAN rock a sock bun, how your guy can never keep his hands off your strands, etc.). Let’s get some positive, female self-love going! The three comments with the MOST LIKES at the end of the week will win the mud masques, so ask your friends for those virtual thumbs ups.
Hair we go!
LYLAS,
Ashley
Let’s party together (on the Internet)!