The Ultimate Beauty Guide

Tips

- Dyed hair is more delicate than undyed hair. Make sure you don't brush or comb it too harshly, even though it may feel like a dreadlock in the shower. Pretend you're combing a mat out of a really cute (but really whiney) dog.

- Make sure whatever style you choose goes with your lifestyle--crazy fashion hair (even when in natural shades) doesn't always agree with certain jobs or schooling requirements. Check on any conflicts you may have with your edgy hair.

- Vibrant or "fashion" colors may require you to bleach your hair. This process makes dyes fade faster and are often dryer than those on natural or unbleached hair. Make sure you are extra-careful about washing so you can make it that month between coloring.

- Make sure your color looks GOOD on you beforehand! Deciding violet-red does NOT go with your olive skin tone is NOT the decision to make after the job is finished.

- When in doubt, talk to your stylist! They are your best friend in the world of haircare advice. They know your hair almost as well as you do.

- If you - like most human beings - do not find the idea of a freezing cold shower appealing, consider developing skills that let you wash your hair in your sink. If that grosses you out, use a large bowl with water. Keep a faucet near by so you don't dirty all your water.

Warnings

Avoid excessive dying/bleaching/streaking/highlighting etc. If you get antsy and can't decide on a style or color and simply *must* change it all the time, be willing to accept the fact that your hair will lack shine, luster, body, and health. Your ends will fry and split and the hair shaft will shrivel and become kinky. If you know that you have commitment issues (to a certain degree) don't dye your hair.

Opaque dyes are much harsher than transparent (semi-permanent) dyes and glazes. Know which option is right for you.

Make sure you don't flat-iron wet hair, or hair with dye still processing. This is not a processing step. Your hair will smoke and die if you do this.