Have a hair or beauty questions? Let us help you find the answer. Ask here for your pro advice!
BELINDA & FRANK GAMBUZZAThis styling duo own and operate Salon Studio Visage in Knoxville, TN. Belinda is know for her color expertise, and Frank excels in cuts and styles.
CARMINE MINARDI
Co-owner of Minardi Salon in New York, Carmine has worked on hundreds of celebrities, housewives and professional women.
DANIEL KEANE
A veteran educator, designer, editorial and platform artist, Daniel also currently serves as Academy Director for Italy Hairfashion.
SUZIE BONDA well-known pro in the color world for over 19 years, Suzie is also the owner of salon Perfect 5th in Mooresville, NC.
BETH MINARDI
In addition to being the co-owner of Minardi Salon in New York, she is a Joico color spokesperson for Vero K-Pak Color.
SOPHISTICATE’S HAIRSTYLE GUIDE
In our 33rd year of publishing, we’ve featured thousands and thousands of fabulous tress looks, talked to celebrity hairstylists, worked with top experts in all things hair and have learned a thing or two about what makes a woman look beautiful. We can help!
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I’ve recently tried at home color for the first time, with Revlon colorsilk I really like how gentle it is on hair but it doesnt seem to be penetrating my hair well, I have medium/dark blonde hair and Im trying to lighten it a bit with as little damage to my hair as I can, could you suggest some tips for at home color? Or if you think this color isnt effective enough suggest a good at home coloring kit to try?
Thanks
Hi, Monica!
Lifting your haircolor takes some professional knowledge, which is why we recommend visiting a professional colorist at your salon. The colorist will know how to lift your hair safely and help you achieve the shade of blonde you want.
I have a almond brown complexion, what shades of brown that has some hightlight bronzes or blondes that would look good with my complexion?
Hi, Debra!
We’re checking with our experts and we’ll have an answer for you soon!
Hi, Debra!
With your almond brown skin try asking your stylist to do something that combines beige and gold tones in a level 5 or 6 to best compliment your beautiful skin tone. You may also want to try soft highlights to add dimension to the overall look.
Can you color weave hair thats not very expensive ($17.99)? I can flat iron it and it wet and wavy.
Hi, Debra!
You may want to consult a styling professional who has experience working with hair extensions. Finding a great color match to blend with your own hair may often require a mixture of several different shades and a hair pro may be able to help you find a better blend of hues.
Hey there. I have a long face with a strong jaw bone and high cheek bones and thick wavey hair that takes forever to straighten. What do you think would be the best cut for me. thanks
Hi, Nova!
Check out our October issue featuring Selena Gomez on our cover; on sale now. We have a special feature on face shapes!
Good luck….
For the last two years I have purchased several issues to choose new hair styles. I have recently starting reading more of your issues to learn how to style my long hair. I now have long hair 2-3 inches below my sholder. I usually blow dry with round brush and straight iron a little or a lot. I am for the first time in my life trying to learn the art of curling my hair. I am having difficulty but not willing to give up yet. I missed the June/July issue and the section called Your Biggest Hair Issues. Is there a way I could have access to Your biggest Haiar Issues? I am having issues knowing what products to use but have several to play with. I am challenged with deciding how to separate hair in order to place on the iron or rollers. How do I keep curled strands away from not curled when using iron so they do not get in my way? How do I decide what direction to curl hair? Under? Away from face? Toward face? What are plastic rollers? (they sound like they are rollers without heat) What are flexible rollers? I am thankful for your magazine. I am certain I will continue to learn from the wisdom in your pages. I have learned more from the issues that I have read than I have from all of my hair stylist through the years. When I ask questions they either do not understand what I am asking or it is such common sense to them they do not believe it deserves a response or do not know how to answere my question. I look forward to your response.
Hi, Regina!
Thanks for the love! We think you’ll like some of the features in the September issue—on stands now! “Your Step-By-Step Guide To The Perfect Blow-Dry” will teach you how to section your hair and you can use this same technique when you want to divide your hair into sections for curling. “How To Get Babetastic Body” offers advice on terrific texture (and curls), courtesy of a celebrity stylist. Check out the new issue—with Lauren Conrad on the cover—today!
Hey,
I have thick medium-long naturally straight hair with some long layers. My hair will not hold a curl and im tired of wearing it straight all the time! I really love beach curls! What do I need to do to achieve this style and any techniques you would recomend me take.
Thank you!!:)
Hi, Jordan!
We’re consulting with our experts and working on an answer for you—check back soon!
Hi, Jordan!
The beach curls you see on models and celebrities in Sophisticate’s can be achieved in a variety of ways. Try using a bodifier spray on the hair before dividing it into sections and wrapping small pieces around the outside of a curling iron (not under the clamp) or by doing a ribbon curl with a flat iron. This is done by putting the hair between the plates of the flat iron, tuning the iron one full turn and then sliding the iron all the way to the ends of the hair. It is that easy! Just be sure to do small sections of the hair. It is a terrific way to change up your style from day to day.
My hair has been dyed black but my hair color is like a strawberry blonde with natural sun highlites. I want to go back to my natural color should I strip my hair first?
Hi, Stacy!
We’re checking with our color experts and we’ll have an answer soon.
By the way – I love your magazine !! I should have started off with that comment first ! I’m just SO FRUSTRATED !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Thank you again
No problem, Lorrie! We’re glad you love Sophisticate’s—and we love you!
Hello everyone,
I am seeking advice and I am at my wits end ! First, I have had two (2) incorrect and/or bad haircuts relative to the layering. I thought I found a stylist yesterday that would be able to correct the problem, maybe not totally, but make the hair look half way descent again. Instead, she corrected the issue somewhat, but not “created” other issues on the sides. I have taken pictures. My sister-in-law and husband noticed something was not right. Intially, my stylist moved to Atlanta (without letting me know) and that left me seeking a new salon/stylist. I have researched on-line in my area and read reviews until my eyes hurt ! Also, asked a few of my friends.
I have also used very good products and taken care of my hair. To describe my hair: Mid-length, very top heavy at crown area and also becomes “thick” at the ends over a fews months time of growth. I had just a few layers wanting to “grow them out to LONG layers” – and received a cut awhile back whereas former stylist “cut” and “shortend” them instead…problems began there. Now, I it looks like I have a couple “poofs” so to speak on each side of my head. The back is as “corrected” as it can be for now. My hair grows fast, and within a couple months it will become “heavy” again. I thank God for that – relative to it growing fast. My bangs are much to short. Overall – for the frame of my face, it’s not good. I have always asked for a consult and I try to communicate as best I can with pictures, etc. Also, I am patient and clear as to what I would eventually like my hair to look like. I have always came prepared.
I looked at my hair this morning – and I am angered even more, especially for what I paid and tipped (which I did over tip, my mistake). I was rushed towards the end to really point anything out to this stylist because she had another client waiting (and she let that be known also).
I am not only asking for your expert advice, but also recommendations in the Orlando, Florida area for a stylist that knows how to layer properly, and overall a good salon that has a well-known reputation for customer service and wanting to “take on” a new client and treat them right.
Thank you so much for your time.
P.S. Also – I have highlights and lowlights, which the other stylist did a wonderful job on, but that was last year in 2010 !
Hi, Lorrie!
We provided you with a list of Orlando-based salons under your comment in the “What’s Your Favorite Salon” section of the Sophisticate’s website. Check it out!
Hi,
I’m looking for a color change in my hair, and with my skin tone Im not sure which would be best. I have pale skin and bright green eyes. Im naturally a medium/dark blonde, and Im not sure if I should enhance what mother nature gave me, or try a different hue. What would be your suggestion?
Thanks
Hi, Monica!
You do have the option of enhancing what Mother Nature gave you, which you could do by adding golden blonde highlights to brighten up your natural medium/dark blonde hue. But because you have fair skin and green eyes, you may be able to pull off a shade of red as well! However, keep in mind, red may fade quickly and require a bit of maintenance. Check out the latest issue of Sophisticate’s for some color inspiration and set up a consultation with your stylist to discuss options. Hold a few color swatches up against your skin and choose a shade the looks great with your skin tone!
Hi, i moved up to Calgary alberta 2 yrs ago and the weather here is horrible on my hair!! it use to be full of moisture and shine these days it’s so dry and not soft at all, what can i do to get my hair back to the way it use to be?!?!?!
p.s. i am getting my haircut it’s super long and i have a more rounded face i want to keep the length in my hair but want something new please help!!
Hi, Amy!
To make your hair appear more shiny, try using a hydrating cleansing duo. But before you apply the conditioner, gently squeeze your hair to remove excess water and allow the conditioner to absorb into your hair. Once you’ve applied the product, rinse thoroughly with cool water. Another trick is to use a hydrating is to try misting a thermal styling spray into your roots loosely blow-dry your hair straight with a paddle brush or round brush. Then take a flat iron and go over your hair froom root to tip. As for the new look? Soft layers make your face appear longer and sideswept bangs add a touch of glamour.
How do I get the tousled undone hair look like miranda kerr in this photo:
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_XId3W3pfwmQ/TRQu16iwFTI/AAAAAAAAAE4/kVP-igw7tTw/s1600/messyhair3.jpg
Hi, Lyssie!
Starting with the haircut, adding layers creates instant texture. To add dimension to the layers, prep damp hair with a dab of mousse. If your hair dries straight, letting your hair air-dry will give you the tousled beachy look. If you need to blow-dry your hair straight, use a round brush to blow-dry your hair 75 percent of the way, then finish by using your fingers to tousle the hair and create that undone silhouette.
hey,
i want to get some highlights in my hair and maybe do that new thing where you lighten the ends/tips of the hair???? and get a trim and some side swept bangs. would this be a good look for me. i have shoulder length thick blonde hair and a round shaped face. or if you have any suggestions i would LOVE to hear them.
also what is a good drugstore shampoo and conditioner. is tresemme a good brand?????
Hi, Taylor!
The ombre haircolor (where your ends are lighter than your roots) trend is hot right now. Look to stars like reality TV queen Lauren Conrad and Dancing With The Stars dancer Lacey Schwimmer to see this look. For style inspiration, check out the Cuts For Your Face shape section of the Sophisticate’s website under the Great Looks tab!
i go to 2 diiferent salons, one for color, one for cut. i need both color and cut now, which should i do first?
Hi, Karen!
It’s really up to you. Trimming your ends regularly helps you maintain healthy hair. But if you think there is too much out-growth at your roots, you may want to go for the haircolor service. Many stylists suggest splurging on haircolor. And if you’ve been with your colorist for a long time, he or she may even throw in a trim for free!
i dyed my hair many times in one month and in need to go to a salon. I am nervous. Will excessive hair coloring make me go bald?
Hi, Maddie!
Excessive haircoloring could cause damage to your hair. Take that trip to the salon and consult with a professional on how much time to leave between your color sessions. Also, make sure to condition your hair regularly and take good care of your hair. For more tips, pick up the latest issue of Sophisticate’s (with Jennifer Lopez on the cover!)…on stands now! And, if you’re interested in Color Trends around the world; you’ll love our feature in the April issue—your personal style passport to color.
I have a darker (kind of reddish brown) base color all over then I was having my stylist put highlights in & she was putting a few reddish lowlights through as well sometimes. She is on maternity leave & I want to do my hair myself. I love blonde– and would like to know if you think I can do it myself at home? Also what color blonde should I go with. My roots are grown out & they’re dark & gray. Help plz!!!
Hi, Karen!
We’re checking in with our experts and we’ll have an answer for you soon.
Hi, Karen!
The first thing you need to remember is coloring hair may look easy to do when a professional is doing it. Our school, continued education, and experience with 10-20 clients a day might make it look simple enough to try on your own. But without those things you are headed for disaster. First of all, color cannot be changed from red to blonde just by choosing a different color. Please trust this job to a professional. Try going to one of your stylists’ coworkers until she is back from leave. Changing your color in the direction you are seeking will require more than one step and a professional’s knowledge of how to accomplish the project. Trust your professional to lead your color change decisions.
Hi:
I wear my hair parted to one side and apparently I am not blow drying it correctly. I end up with a lump on the top of my head. I am trying to achive a sleek undefined part with whispy bangs. I like it to be high in the crown area. I fight and fight with it every morning. Please tell me how to hold my blow dryer and what direction to blow dry my hair. Somewhat like Suzie Bonds hair. I love the touseled over to the side look. TY
Hi, Davis!
Start by spraying your crown with a root lifter. Then blow-dry three inches at the scalp, straight up from where it grows. Blow-dry the fringe area the opposite way of where you want it to lay, using a round brush that’s small enough to wrap your hair around it 1.5 times. Finally, dry the mid-lengths and ends in the direction you want them to lay. Try spraying a generous amount of hairspray and place hair where you want it.
I need help. I’m getting a haircut in a few days because my hair feels so unhealthy — it has gotten very dry, feels like straw, and some sections are a little fried from heat styling. I have thick, wavy hair that tends to get frizzy. Is there a specific product I can use to protect my hair from heat styling? Thanks!
P.S. I’m sure cutting my hair will not completely fix all my problems, but it’s a start. Any other products you can recommend to reverse hair damage? (In addition to a specific product/brand to help with heat styling.) Thanks!
Hi, Rachel!
You may want to start off by getting a haircut. Ask for a deep-conditioning treatment at the salon and then purchase the at-home version to do it yourself every two weeks. The treatment will give your hair moisture, strength, vitality and shine. Also, try using a heat-protecting agent whenever you style your hair.
I recently was looking to go to school online and found that Stratford Career Institute has a Cosmetology/Esthetics
Distance Learning Course and I was wondering if I completed it at home, would it be a waste of time or do you think it could help me start a career in cosmetology. I’ve never heard of an online course in this feild so I was wondering if you’ve heard of anyone doing this and starting a career.
Hi, Angel!
If you’re interested in starting a career in cosmetology, you may want to check out some of the beauty schools in your area. Being a hairstylist/makeup artist requires hands-on experience you may not be able to get at home by yourself.
hey,
i love the look of scrunched hair and i use moose and gel to do it. i dont use the curling iron nor do i want to. but whenever i scrunch my hair it looks diry and greasy and like i dont wash my hair and a big mess. is there a trick or tip on how to scrunch hair with out a curling iron. if this info helps i have just below my shoulders thick dirty blonde hair.
thanks bye!☺
Hi, Taylor!
We’re working on an answer for you—stay tuned!