danielafrancabeauty

Which hot tools are best for your hair type?

Thu, 28 Jan 2021 22:28:16 GMT

Choosing the perfect Flat Iron and Blow-Dryer

While shopping for professional hot tools, how many of you buy the latest trending product or the cheapest product? If you are not purchasing the right products for your hair type, then your hair will suffer the consequences! Personally, I have experienced many blow-dryer “fails” that have resulted in hair that was severely heat damaged. Additionally, with an overuse of titanium flat irons hair was burnt because of low porosity and not being strong enough to handle that type of technology.

Choosing the right hair appliance that works for your hair can be very overwhelming, especially if you are buying multiple hair tools only to be disappointed by the results. You may be overpaying for tools that are just not right for you! So, I am going to help you with your search for the perfect hot tools and list all the things to consider while shopping for flat irons and blow-dryers. Once you find the perfect tools for your hair, I promise this will be a “makeover gamechanger”!

Ceramic vs Titanium

Ceramic

With even heat distribution, ceramic flat irons don’t have cold or overheated spots, which helps minimize hair damage. Ceramic also helps eliminate frizz and makes heating plates smoother, so they are less likely to pull on the hair. Most hair types can use ceramic tools; however, thin, fragile or damaged hair requires lower temperatures. So just remember to use heat protectants before styling and find a tool that has manual temperature control.

Key Benefits:

1. Provides even heat distribution allowing you to straighten hair with lower temperatures. The less heat being used will result in healthier hair.

2. Significantly reduces frizz and static.

3. Heating plates are smoother, so they are less likely to create tangles while pulling the flat iron through the hair.

4. Reduces heating-up time.

**PRO TIP**

Choose a hot tool that provides a SOLID CERAMIC plate, not ceramic coated. Flat irons with ceramic coating have metal under the coverage which allows them to heat up much faster, but ceramic coating does not provide the same type of heat distribution. Also, it doesn’t stay as hot as a true ceramic plate.

Some ceramic hot tools are merged with tourmaline technology that goes over ceramic plates, making the hair even smoother. Tourmaline is a crystal boron silicate mineral that aids in the hair smoothing process. Tourmaline emits negative ions that counteract the positive ions present in dry or damaged hair. This results in smooth, shiny hair. The tourmaline even helps to seal moisture into your hair and counteracts frizz. Now when you see ceramic flat irons boasting the term ‘negative ion technology’ or ‘ionic technology’ (more on that below) you will recognize the benefits.

Titanium

Titanium hair straighteners deliver the fastest heat transfer for immediate and superior results. However, you should be careful with the temperature settings to reduce hair damage as much as possible.

Key Benefits:

1. Great for straightening dense, thick hair that is hard to tame.

2. More powerful than ceramic and tourmaline flat irons.

3. Generally heats up even faster than ceramic and tourmaline straighteners.

4. Has a higher ionic distribution for smoother and shinier results.

Titanium flat irons are recommended for customers with thick, coarse, healthy hair. If your locks are fine or normal, I don’t discourage the use of a titanium hair straightener, just be aware of its powerful heating ability and start with lower temperature settings. Always remember to use a heat protectant on your hair before using any type of hot tool.

Latest in Blow-Dryer Technology

Ionic Technology

What is ionic charge? The ionic charge is emitted by a blow-dryer, flat iron or something that is creating an environment where the cuticle can be closed easier. This will allow the water molecules to be taken from the hair quicker and easier. It usually requires less heat, less time, less energy to get a very polished blow-dry. Total game changer!

Key Benefits:

1. Smoother and shinier results.

2. Dries hair up to 50% faster.

3. Helps to retain artificial colour longer.

4. Protects the outer layer of the hair.

Ceramic and Tourmaline Technology

Ceramic blow-dryers emit non-damaging infrared heat that dries the hair gently for added heat protection. While tourmaline blow- dryers emit infrared heat and negative ions, making the heat much gentler on the hair during styling for a shinier and less frizzy finish. It also enables the hair to endure much higher levels of heat without creating damage. (revert to the previously mentioned key points for references).

Ceramic blow-dryers are slightly more expensive than traditional blow-dryers, but the added benefits make it worthwhile. Ceramic models do release some negative ions to help control frizz. However, if frizz control is your main concern, it would be worth investing in a Tourmaline + Ionic blow-dryer over a ceramic one.

INTRODUCING...Oxy Active Technology

NEW from GAMA, the IQ Perfetto is the world's lightest blow-dryer and is equipped with an intelligent brushless motor, allowing the hair to dry 30% faster than any other dryer on the market! The perfect balance between elegant, modern design and professional performance, the IQ Perfetto features state-of-the-art Oxy Active Technology that provides antibacterial benefits and seals the hair cuticles, keeping color-treated hair looking fresh for longer. This groundbreaking dryer also emits negative ions to neutralize frizz and promote hair regeneration. With three speeds and three temperatures, the result is healthy, shiny, elastic hair with a deep cleansing of the scalp. A true MUST have for professional stylists and customers who are willing to invest in this technology.

BYE BYE UNDER EYE

sandybobnar2@gmail.com (Sandy Bobnar) — Sun, 20 Dec 2020 20:12:46 GMT

My Top Picks For Concealers & Colour Correctors

Adapting to change has never been my strongest quality. I literally thrive on routine and consistency.

Although, one thing that has always remained consistent within my daily routine is my morning “lite” makeup application, especially focused under the eyes.

Since wearing a mask everyday has become the new norm, the focus of our makeup has now shifted to the eyes. Therefore, an easy “wake up and go” makeup routine will help you brighten up those tired eyes.

Drawing attention to your eyes have never been easier, and with so many products on the market it can be overwhelming selecting the right product for you, especially when it comes to concealers. So, I will share some of my TOP choices for concealers to help conceal dark circles and brighten under the eyes, giving you a no makeup- makeup look!

COLOUR CORRECTION

This technique is used to brighten under eye circles by cancelling out opposite shades on the colour wheel. Green and purple undertones help to cover up blemishes but do very little for dark circles, while red, pink, yellow or orange help to balance out the dark purple under the eyes.

This step does not apply to everyone (different ethnicities and mature skin are more commonly affected) but can be a crucial step before applying concealer.

Below is a list of my favorite colour correctors :

CONCEALER

Concealer is used to cover the dark circles under the eyes and brightens to give the illusion of a good night's sleep! Ahhh!

Below is a list of my favorite concealers:

PRO TIP

For an added “woke” makeup look, use this final pro tip:

WINTER HAIR ROUTINE

sandybobnar2@gmail.com (Sandy Bobnar) — Sun, 20 Dec 2020 15:44:41 GMT

6 Hair Hacks to Manage Your Hair This Winter

Do you experience dry or brittle hair when the temperature drops?

Well, I am here to help you with just 6 simple steps to reset the cycle of unhealthy to soft and silky hair.

1. Warm Water Wash- Cool Water Rinse

I know what you are going to say, “How can I possibly wash my hair in cool water when it’s freezing outside?” Rest assured the long-term benefits outweigh the 5 minutes of nip in the air.

BENEFITS : Warm water opens the cuticles on your scalp allowing the process of cleaning to be fully effective and thorough. Rinsing with cool water allows your natural essential oils and moisture to seal in your hair just before closing the pores, preventing dirt from entering the scalp. This step will promote a healthy environment for the hair to grow!

PRO TIP : Try to space out your washes and use slicked hair buns or a dry shampoo for those unbearable days.

2. Cleanse Scalp and Hydrate Ends Twice A Month

It's important to cleanse and moisturize the skin on your face, why not the skin on your scalp and ends of your hair?

BENEFITS : Using a gentle cleanser wash on your scalp will remove unwanted products or chemicals that have been building up. It will also help to open up the cuticles while using a hair mask to properly deliver hydration and moisture to the hair.

PRO TIP : I recommend using Kevin Murphy Maxi Wash and Hydrate- Me Masque.

3. Protect Hair from Heat Tools

During cooler temperatures, our hair will naturally be drier and adding to the dryness will just make your hair feel impossible to heat style without looking fried! Using a heat protector might just be your life saver.

BENEFITS : Helps reduce heat damage while conditioning and smoothening hair fibers.

PRO TIP : I recommend using Kevin Murphy Heated Defense, the best weightless leave in heat protection for up to 232C / 450F.

4. Change Your Blow Dry Routine

Often, I ask my clients what is their hair drying process? Most follow a similar routine, after washing their hair, they allow the hair to dry naturally and then begin straightening hours later. The problem with this routine is that once the hair has dried and the bonds of the hair harden, this adds more stress on the hair to reshape the bonds, straight or curly.

For example, if you have curly hair, your bonds will dry in an 'S' shape. Once your hair’s ‘H’ bonds dry (Hydrogen Bonding; allowing our hair to change shape temporarily), the flexibility of changing shape becomes harder to manipulate. In result, this will add more work for those bonds to hold position once it's already formed another shape and vice versa.

BENEFITS : By properly smoothing out your hair, you will be sealing your cuticle allowing for a lasting blowout with minimal touch ups.

PRO TIP : Blow dry your hair immediately after it’s been washed and use a professional blow dryer such as the Soleil Ultra 2000 or the Gama IQ Perfetto Professional (you will use your hair straightener less if it is properly smoothened by your drying technique).

5. Frequent Hair Trims

This one is a no brainer! For the quickest relief from dryness, doing this step is imperative.

BENEFITS : Removing split ends will stop the hair-splitting process and will allow the hair to grow longer and stronger.

PRO TIP : Find a stylist you trust to snip your ends if you are trying to grow them out. Approximately every 6-8 weeks is recommended.

6. Cover Your Hair

The elements are more detrimental to the hair than we realize. However, there is a super simple and yet highly effective solution; Wearing a winter hat!

BENEFITS : Wearing a hat will not only keep you warm, it will also protect your hair fibers from wind and cold temperatures.

PRO TIP : Use a small hair clip on the top of your hair to maintain volume and avoid further flattening, especially after that beautiful blow dry you just did!

Follow these 6 steps to help prevent further damage to your hair. So, when Spring arrives, your hair will be long and full of life!!

HOW TO BRIDE DURING A GLOBAL PANDEMIC???

sandybobnar2@gmail.com (Sandy Bobnar) — Sun, 20 Dec 2020 15:44:39 GMT

Dear 2020 Brides, I Feel You.

Wedding planning can be one of the most exciting times in a couple’s lives, not to mention time consuming. Most couples, if not all, are hoping to plan their special day without a hiccup or experiencing any bumps in the road! Unfortunately, 2020 had different plans.

The real question remains; how are you feeling and how do you deal with potentially postponing your wedding date???

First things first. Check in with yourself and with your partner, make sure that both of you release your emotions that have led you up to this point. Then decide what the best option is moving forward. Ask all the right questions, should we wait another year? Should we consider a small wedding? Dare we just elope?

If you have not yet booked a wedding planner, now might be a good time to consider one. Burdened with the pressures of calling all your vendors for multiple date options might get complicated and challenging. Enlisting the help of a professional wedding planner will help take away some of your stresses so you can continue enjoying the wedding planning process.

Consider keeping it small. I've personally seen how extraordinary and romantic an intimate wedding set in the comfort of your own backyard can be! With help from your vendors, you can bring your visions to life and achieve the wedding of your dreams.

Keep the ball rolling. Even when you think there is no hope, never give up on faith. You WILL get married when you and your partner decide the timing is right. Don’t allow the opinions of others bring you down, make your own decisions. Afterall, this is your special day!

Lastly, consider planning something special on your original wedding date to mark the occasion. Just because you aren’t walking down the aisle on that day doesn’t mean you still can’t celebrate your love!