Re'Voil Hair & Beauty News Blog

How to shine on your wedding day

Re'Voil — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 11:06:21 +0000

(Drafted from www.thesundaily.com)

Every bride wants to be the most beautiful woman at her wedding. Her dress, shoes, veil and flowers are carefully selected, ordered, purchased and prepared in advance.

But the bride’s outfit is not complete until her make-up is on and her hair is styled. However, women should not go overboard on their big day. Hair and makeup do not require a lot of preparation.

“The most important tip is: Just don’t over style,” said Stefanie Koehn, hairstylist, make-up artist and spokesman for the German association of hairstylists in Wetzlar. Many women have a secret desire to feel like a princess for one day in their life and they become too eager, according to Koehn.

“A sporty woman with a sugar-sweet hairstyle only looks strange. The bride should look authentic and true to herself, especially on her wedding day.”

“The hairstyle shouldn’t be uptight just to maintain tradition, but strictly modern haircuts can be dangerous, too,” said Britta John, a beauty expert at an organization that represents cosmetic retailers based in Bielefeld, Germany.

“A wedding is not the ideal time to set a trend,” said John. The photographs taken at the wedding should be pleasing to look at years later. Natural make-up and classic, timeless hairstyles are most suitable for the occasion.

“Discreet, delicately shimmering colours for eye-makeup and lipstick and a hint of rouge on the cheeks liven up the complexion and help prevent the face looking too pale against white or cream-coloured fabric in the dress,” John added.

“In addition, it is wise not to use too many colours and above all no garish colours,” said Horst Kirchberger, a star makeup artist from Munich.

“And the make-up should be applied evenly and it should be allowed to settle into the skin.”

To ensure that happens, make-up experts advise preparing the skin a few days before the wedding.

“The bride should have a peeling so that the skin is well prepared,” said Koehn.

Waterproof eye shadow and mascara help ensure that any tears of joy that might be shed cause no damage. Lipgloss give the lips a shimmering look.

The cosmetic experts agree that the make-up application should be practiced a few times before the wedding.

“Brides are incredibly excited on their wedding day. Only women who really put on their make-up routinely have a chance to get it right,” said Koehn.

An alternative is to hire a professional for a consultation, which offers a short time-out from all the preparation stress.

Classic, not overly elaborate hairstyles have their advantages.

Brides who prefer to create a romantic, playful look, should choose a glamorous look that
goes with their dress. Thin hair can be made to look more voluminous by using curls, a hair piece
or by putting it up, said Jens Dagne of Worms, chairman of a German association of hairstylists.

Rules that apply to preparing the skin also apply to the hair. The style should be tried out sometime in the weeks prior to the wedding.

“Problems with thin or brittle hair or hair that is hard to put up can be solved with a little advance preparation,” said Dagne.

For wedding styles and the perfect look for your perfect day book a trial at Re’Voil Hair & Beauty by calling 0161 950 9933 or visit the website via www.revoil.co.uk – hairdressers in Manchester

Hair making you hotter? Take it up

Re'Voil — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 11:02:48 +0000

(Drafted from www.kansas.com)

You don’t need to be a hairstylist to make these options work.

When the temperature soars, no one wants long hair adding to the heat and discomfort.

During summer months hair is swooped up to help keep us cool.

But take note: There are options other than the basic ponytail or grabbed, twisted, clamped style.

“Wearing your hair up doesn’t mean you have to take a lot of time or be a skilled hairdresser,” says Wichita stylist Robin Wilborn.

According to Wilborn, a quick, cool style is as easy as one-two-three.

Here are a couple of examples.

1. Gather hair in a ponytail at about ear level in the center of the back of the head. Secure with a band that will not damage hair.

2. Pull the band out about one inch so there is some space between the head and the band. Create a hole in the hair between the scalp and band with your finger.

3. Flip hair (ponytail) through the hole and tighten the band against the scalp.

Options: You can curl the hair that hangs down or roll it under and secure with hairpins for a chignon look.

1. Gather hair in one hand at the nape of the neck.

2. Twist hair clockwise while bringing it upward toward the crown on the head.

3. Insert bobby pins starting to secure twist in place. Depending on hair length, some of it can remain loose.

Options: Make the twist curve around on the back of the head, letting some hair remain unsecured.

For advice and tips on hair care and styles call Re’Voil Hair & Beauty on 0161 950 9933 or visit the website on www.revoil.co.uk – hairdressers in Manchester

The right hair for the right job, by Wendy Iles

Re'Voil — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 10:59:25 +0000

(Drafted from www.pr-inside.com)

During the current economic decline, millions of women around the world are competing for employment. Here to help those women candidates look their best for job interviews are some professional hairstyling tips from international celebrity hairstylist Wendy Iles.

Have you looked at yourself in a mirror lately? Never forget your image as the first impression you make is a critical factor for employers hiring staff. You may have an incredibly impressive resume, but if you are not looking correct or are wearing an inappropriate look for an interview, you may lose the job that should rightfully be yours.

In today’s highly competitive job market, it’s important to look your best when you are interviewed for a position, and that includes your hair. Hair is one of the best weapons we have in presenting our best selves. The right haircut, hairstyle and hair color can provide us with more confidence and the right allure to land that new job. Here are some things to consider when going for the right look for an interview.

When trying to determine a proper hairstyle, consider what type of job you seek … corporate, commercial, artistic or whatever. Find the look that feels right for you and corresponds to the job you want. Go for a more conservative look if you’re applying for a position at a law firm versus a more daring look for work at a music label.

Have your hair looking fresh and clean. Don’t hide under your hair. If you have bangs, be sure they have been trimmed to a fresh length to show eye contact. Nothing is more distractive than someone who keeps touching her hair. So wear a comfortable style to avoid this.

Whether you prefer your hair short, long or tied back, or attached hair (an extension), it’s important that you find the right style for your face shape to set off your facial features to their best advantage.

To select the best style, get started by figuring out your face shape.
Tie your hair back, look into the mirror and trace the outline of your face with a lipstick on the mirror. Stand back and there you have it, the outline of your face shape. This is a guideline to help choose what cuts and styles are best suited to your personal facial frame. As some hairdressers don’t have the knowledge to follow these guidelines, you can be a step ahead of your stylist if you already know what works best for you by following this simple exercise.

Here are a variety of shapes to choose from with the best corresponding cuts to consider, plus some well-known celebrities with these face types.

Oval
Most hairstyles work for you. Your face shape is well balanced and evenly proportioned. You can wear short medium or long hair. You will look best by wearing hair off your face. Most oval shapes support slick back hairdos perfectly. Celebrities with oval faces include Cindy Crawford, Sharon Stone, Uma Thurman, Julia Roberts and Elle Macpherson.

Rectangular or Oblong
Layers work well with this type of face as they add softness to the structured lines. Try side parts, the longer the face the more off center the parting should be. Avoid hair with too much length as this will make the face appear even longer. Shorter and medium length cuts will add volume to the sides and a soft wispy bang will help shorten the appearance of the length of the face. Celebrities with rectangular/oblong faces include Stephanie Seymour, Gwyneth Paltrow and Janet Jackson.

Square
If you have straight hair, you may wish to consider a soft body wave to achieve a balance to the straight features of your face or ask for soft razored graduation around the faceline that will frame your face or feather the ends of hair to avoid hard heavy ends or in the case of a Demi Moore, her center part and long straight hair gives length to the otherwise square shape. Celebrities with square faces include Kirsten Scott Thomas and Sandra Bullock, as well as Demi Moore.

Round
Center parts or just off-center are good possibilities for this facial type, as with hairstyles that are longer than chin length. Avoid chin length cuts and bowl-shaped hairdos. The widest part of your face runs from ear to ear. So stay away from too much volume in these areas. Celebrities with round faces include Kate Winslet, Drew Barrymore and Renee Zellweger.

Heart-shaped
The chin length bob is the winner for this facial type, as it adds the width needed in the chin area. Avoid too much height at crown which will only make the chin more pointed and small. Celebrities with heart-shaped faces include Reese Witherspoon, Michelle Pfeiffer, and Juliette Binoche.

Triangular
The reverse of heart. The wedge cut is perfect as it adds width to the temple and eye areas. Celebrities with a triangular face include Kathy Ireland.

Diamond
Close to oval with a touch of heart. This shape is well balanced and will allow you to experiment with a variety of styles. Celebrities with diamond-shaped faces include Sophia Lauren.

Considering also your body shape when choosing your next hairstyle or cut.
Thin, tall women can just about wear any style. Just avoid the big volume look as all that hair will look top heavy on a slim figure.
Full figures should avoid wide styles or too much side volume. Layers work well with graduation around the faceline to add length. Height on the crown works also, giving length to your silhouette.
Short women look even shorter with long hair. Sleeker cuts and layers work better.

If in doubt …
Stay with a one-length bob just clearing the shoulders. This is always elegant for any occasion and looks marvelous tied back in a low ponytail or swept easily up in a French twist or chignon. Thin hair looks thicker, curly hair is more manageable as the one length weighs the curl down to a more attractive wave, and thick hair just looks glorious. Concentrate on condition, color reflect and shine and you are ready to conquer all job offers.

It’s worth taking a little time to discover what’s best for you. The right professional hairstylist can also help but it’s good to have some inside information of your own to support what they say. Pictures speak a thousand words. So if you think a certain style might work, take a picture along with you. If your professional is talented and experienced she will advise you correctly. Pay attention to how well they are listening to you. If they seem preoccupied or absent minded, don’t be afraid to cancel your visit and rebook with someone who understands your hair requirements.

Finally, no matter what cut or style you choose, remember to keep hair looking healthy.
Conditioning is essential for well groomed, shiny hair. You can rely on brands I like Loreal, Wella, Pantene, Clairol and Tresemme. Also, hair coloring can cover a multitude of sins. It can camouflage dryness, add shine, cover unwanted gray, and add youthfulness to skin tones. If your budget allows, seek a professional for this. If your budget is more in keeping with home hair color, try Feria, Garnier Nutrisse and Clairol “Natural Instincts” brands.

Here are a variety of shapes to choose from with the best corresponding cuts to consider, plus some well-known celebrities with these face types.

Triangular
The reverse of heart. The wedge cut is perfect as it adds width to the temple and eye areas. Celebrities with a triangular face include Kathy Ireland.

Diamond
Close to oval with a touch of heart. This shape is well balanced and will allow you to experiment with a variety of styles. Celebrities with diamond-shaped faces include Sophia Lauren.

For that perfect interview hairstyle call Re’Voil Hair & Beauty on 0161 950 9933 and get yourself an appointment, or visit the website via www.revoil.co.uk – professional hairdressers in Manchester

Thin Hair Gets Full of Style

Re'Voil — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 10:52:57 +0000

(Drafted from www.wowowow.com)

Just because we’re in the middle of a recession doesn’t mean that your hair has to fall limp. Give your hair fullness from root to tip with the Full & Thick collection from Pantene.

Each product has an active combination to separate and breathe life into each strand. Not only will it strengthen your hair against damage, it also conditions it to be more resistant and resilient for long-lasting control and volume that you can touch.

To get the best results possible, make sure you also follow these quick and easy tips using Pantene’s Full & Thick product line:

• Shampooing: You don’t have to rough up your fine hair to get healthy volume. Shampoo with a light touch to avoid breaking hair in the process;

• Conditioning: Don’t let conditioners scare you away because you think they’ll weigh your hair down. For volume, condition only the middle and ends of your hair where it’s most susceptible to damage;

• Styling: Focus on your roots. The hair closest to the scalp is the most important place to build volume. To dry your hair, use a vented brush or your fingers, start at the roots and move outward making sure to keep hair moving and lifted away from the scalp, particularly the crown. For maximum lift and volume, hold your head upside-down while drying;

• Maintenance: Refresh your hairstyle through the day by using a curling iron or large rollers to create additional volume and a more polished look. Make sure to let curls cool before combing through with your fingers.

For salon perfect hair call Re’Voil Hair & Beauty on 0161 950 9933 or visit the website via www.revoil.co.uk – professional hairdressers in Manchester

Style tips for tall women

Re'Voil — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 10:49:22 +0000

(Drafted from www.earthtimes.org)

Many women are unhappy with their figures. They think their hips are too wide, their legs are too short and their breasts are too small, all the while believing that women who are tall and thin must have it easy when it comes to style. But women who have the proportions of runway models often have problems finding the perfect look. There are a few tricks they can use to be rid of a few centimetres.

“This works best in the so-called long look,” said Bettyna Poeltl, a style expert at an image and fashion institute in Berlin. “A long T-shirt over pants and a vest – that looks well and it can magically get rid of a few centimetres,” Poeltl said.

Tall women look a bit smaller when their outfit can be separated into different parts. Long blazers and long coats also work well on tall women provided they cover the thigh, she said. A form-fitting top under the blazer or coat is the best way to add elegance to the outfit.

“Tall, thin women can show their figures,” said Poeltl. There are also a few things they should note when selecting pants. A slit up the side seam from the hem, for example, can make long legs look a bit shorter.

“Three-quarters or cigarette pants, which leave the ankle free, also reduce the leg length,” said Ingo Brack of the fashion school Esmond in Munich. Cigarette pants are tight-fitting, straight-legged pants that were popular in the ’60s. Audrey Hepburn wore them and they can be found today in many closets.

“With their high waist and the short leg length, they are perfect for tall, thin women,” said Poeltl. With ankles revealed, pumps or ballerinas are the best choice in shoes. Because cigarette pants attract so much attention, Poeltl suggests an understated top. “A white blouse or a simply cut pullover combine well with the pants.”

Alternatively, narrow tube pants and leggings emphasize long legs, and tall women who like to wear dresses can hardly go wrong, Brack believes.

“Very thin women look best in mini dresses. Those who believe they have a few problem zones can wear a loose-fitting billowy dress made of lightweight material,” Brack said. The outfit should then be finished with small details such as pockets and belts that break up the outfit and make the woman wearing it look smaller.

Conspicuous tops with large patterns or in particular styles such as empire also detract from a women’s height.

“Tall women are made to wear large patterns. It can easily be something striking that goes throughout the outfit,” said Brack. Small patterns also are acceptable on a tall woman, said Brack. “Actually, anything goes, except vertical stripes.”

There are a few other things tall women should note about style. V-necks and long zippers elongate the body even more and should therefore be avoided. In addition there are skirt styles that can take a bit away from one’s overall height. Skirts that are narrow to the knee and then bell out fit wonderfully on tall women, Poeltl said.

What goes for the outfit also goes for shoes. Sporty elegance is ideal and tall women do not have to reject heels.

“In flat shoes many women feel too slouchy. That’s why many confidently wear heels,” she said. The shoes should be rounded at the toe so that the foot looks smaller. Many tall women have long feet and a round toe de-emphasizes their length, said Brack. Shoes that have a strap over the instep make long lets look shorter, as do boots that stop at mid-calf.

Beyond having a well put-together outfit, tall women should also take note of a few tips for their hair. Volume and fullness, particularly on the sides is important.

“This is how to bring expression and character to a small face,” said Jens Dagne, a master hair stylist from Worms. But he cautions not to cut the hair at the nape of the neck too short so that it maintains a counterbalance.

Women with an oval face can select a full hairstyle with curls that are either natural or permed. Asymmetrical styles also work. The hair should be shoulder length at most so that the oval face is not drawn out by the hair’s length, added Dagne.

For advice on the perfect style for all shapes and sizes book in for an appointment at Re’Voil Hair & Beauty by calling 0161 950 9933 or visit the website via www.revoil.co.uk – hairdressers in Manchester

Beauty queen reveals styling tips she gives her old school friend Andy

Re'Voil — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 09:32:23 +0000

(Drafted from news.scotsman.com)

MISS Scotland has told The Scotsman she has been giving her former school friend Andy Murray fashion and styling tips.
Katharine Brown, a tennis coach from Murray’s home town, Dunblane, said: “Just after he got his hair cut and lost that wild look I told him ‘I’m really glad you’ve done something about that hair. It’s looking good’.

“He was a bit taken aback, but then he said ‘Oh, was it that bad? Did you really think so?’”

Miss Brown, who was yesterday promoting safe fake tan at Pure Spa’s Ocean Terminal salon in Edinburgh, said she also gave Murray her opinion on his tennis wear. “I told him the Fred Perry clothes were very, very cool, which he was pleased about.”

Murray and Brown met as five-year-olds at primary school and have kept in touch ever since.

“Andy’s stayed exactly the same. There’s no fluff about him, he’s intelligent and he’s got a great sense of humour.”

Commenting on Murray’s muscular physique, Brown said: “He’s a man now. When you’re physically strong you are mentally strong and it shows. He’s lasting these big long matches.”

Recalling their late primary school days Brown, who has a scholarship with Tennis Scotland, told how she, Murray, his brother and friends had tried to “blag” their way in to a cinema in Stirling when they were under-age.

“I managed to get a ticket but when Andy got to the counter he turned to his brother and said in a loud voice ‘Jamie, how old am I supposed to be?’

“You have to remember that he’s been playing tennis since he was about eight years old and it has been his entire life. He’s in the media spotlight now but we’ve all known him for years when it was all low-key.”

Brown said that Murray was supportive of all his friends’ achievements and encouraged them to push themselves.

“When I won Miss Scotland he congratulated me. He was asking me so many questions about what it would lead to and what it could do for me.”

Brown who was at Wimbledon to watch Murray get through to the semi-finals said: “The atmosphere was electric. I just totally fell in love with Wimbledon.

“I think Andy’s going to win the final. He’s doing so well and I’m so totally proud of him. He deserves it,” she said.

“I was driving past the tennis courts in Dunblane one morning and there was a huge long queue of boys and girls waiting to get on. Every young kid wants to be him.”

For professional beauty, hair and styling call Re’Voil Hair & Beauty on 0161 950 9933 or visit the website via www.revoil.co.uk – professional hair and beauty salon in Manchester.

10 beauty and style things to do this summer

Re'Voil — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 09:26:01 +0000

(Drafted from www.nwi.com)

Carefree and colorful epitomize summer style. So as we fight to keep cool and look cool doing it, here are a few suggestions to help you handle the rising heat index and retain your style quotient. It’s OK for them to see you sweat, if you look good doing it.

1. Go natural, or at least fake it. If your hair is naturally curly, experiment with hair products that allow you to get away from the flat iron and blow dryer. You’ll be surprised at what the right cut and the right curl serum can do. If you don’t have natural curls, you can experiment with French braiding your hair at night and unraveling it in the morning for something soft and easy.

Curls are a naturally youthful look that can take a few years off your face, especially if you combine it with a few strategic highlights that can last you most of the summer. Braids are another option, but you don’t have to go all out. Try styling your hair loose with just one small braid down the side or across the top of the head like a headband. Both are a nice touch for semi-casual daytime and chic nighttime wear.

2. Adopt a bold-colored pair of shoes and try them on with everything. That doesn’t mean you have to wear them every day, but you have to stop instinctively reaching for same boring black or neutral pair of shoes to go with everything. You’d be surprised how some red shoes can add pizzazz to everything from blacks to peach ensembles. Mix colors. No matter what color you’re wearing you can probably add shiny red, green or yellow shoes for an unexpected pop of color.

3. Summer lip, lids and tips. Play up your eyes, lips and nails with some of the vibrant colors summer has to offer. Highlight your eyes or your lips, but not both unless you have expert status. You don’t have to go with a lip color that enters the room two steps ahead of the rest of your face, but try pumping up the shade you normally wear by going with something two shades darker or brighter in the same family. If the color scares you, go with something matte, not super glossy. Coral shades can be universally flattering. For eyes, think greens and golds for a switch. And typically, your lips and your fingernail polish should not clash. If you paint your hands and toes, they should be the same color, unless your hands have clear polish or a French manicure.

4. Commit to a beauty regimen. If you have tons of lotions and potions that you use sporadically, now’s the time to make a commitment to applying them as directed morning and night. Otherwise, you are wasting money. Find one slate of products and use them religiously for the summer and see how your skin reacts. Right now, we’re in love with the Aveda Enbrightenment skin care system, which improves the surface of the skin and diminishes the appearance of dark spots. Just note that inconsistency is often worse than no regimen at all. The heat, humidity and damaging sun rays put your skin at risk for clogging, breakouts and hyperpigmentation. A regular routine will remove the excess oils that will build up, and if you make sure one of those steps involves a “broad spectrum” sunblock (look for zinc oxide, one of the best blockers), you’ll be protected from harmful UV rays.

5. Jackets need not be deferred. We often hang up the jackets and long sleeves for the summer because they are hard to keep fresh. Because we’re more prone to wearing something sleeveless underneath a jacket, sweat happens. So the easier-to-care-for cardigans tend to crop up a little more. But a jacket can be a great way to boost a simple summer frock into office attire. A jacket or long sleeves can also validate a tailored Bermuda short for workday wear. Garment Guard ($10.95 to $14.95) at Nordstrom or www.garmentguard.com, offers a barrier. Stick the disposable pads into your jacket or shirts to guard against excess sweating. That way you can still take your jacket to the office to battle the chill of the air conditioning without battling your wallet on dry cleaning.

6. Find your signature item. Invest in a quality accessory piece. It can be a watch that you plan to wear every day or a simple, sexy pair of gold hoop earrings. Go out and buy something worthwhile and wear the heck out of it. Consider the price per wear cost instead of the overall cost. And, no, it doesn’t have to be expensive, but it should be distinctive and versatile. Precious metals are a safe bet, but something tribal can also be versatile. From American Indian turquoise pieces to African bead bracelets, the looks can add personality to neutrals, blacks or jeans.

7. Upgrade your flip-flops. There’s no excuse to walk around clip-clopping in something that looks like you just stepped out of a communal shower at the gym. ‘Nuf said.

8. Flowers, bows and patterns. Now’s the time to shake out of the ho-hum solids and spice it up with a printed dress, flirty ruffled shirt or sweeping skirt. Add a little bohemian to your normal attire; it’s bound to affect your mood. Even if you’re not a print-kinda-girl, a flower pin in your hair, on your shirt or a headband can also lend an element of fun to your day-to-day wardrobe. Emma E. Bows has nonslip hair bows and flowers for adults and children the Etsy Web site at www.ktfin777.etsy.com.

9. Let blemishes be. If you are perpetually acne-free, we hate you, move on. If you are prone to breakouts, then just expect that those pesky blemishes will be worse in the summer. Do your diligence of applying drying potions and wait. Some products will take the red out or shorten the duration when used consistently, but the best thing you can do is keep your hands off. RareMinerals Blemish Therapy ($28) from Bare Escentuals, offers a powder treatment that fights acne, reduces redness and heals. Other products with a 10 percent concentration of benzoyl peroxide can work well when applied at night or under moisturizers during the day. But to run a course, blemishes can last for three to five days. Yes, soooo frustrating, but your skin will thank you for your patience, and it won’t rebel with something even more heinous, like permanent scarring.

10. Buy new undies. If you haven’t been fitted for a new bra in a while, you have probably changed sizes or needs. It’s inevitable. And with tank tops and halter tops, you need the right undergarments to lift and flatter. As a bonus, the right bra can make you look five pounds thinner in a snap. If you notice that your bras aren’t as stretchy as they used to be, that’s a problem. Too comfy can also be a problem. Your bra should feel fairly invisible, but you should not feel jiggly (yes, that’s a technical term). Ultimately, you want comfort and support, but above all you want support. You can probably also benefit from some new panties. Sheer fabrics and lighter, seamless items can be nicer looking underneath lightweight warm weather items.

To enhance that summer look with great hair and beauty call Re’Voil Hair & Beauty on 0161 950 9933 or visit the website via www.revoil.co.uk – Professional hair and beauty salon in Manchester

Hair Dye and Health Safety

Re'Voil — Sun, 05 Jul 2009 19:37:21 +0000

(Drafted from www.fitsugar.com)

Coloring your hair is really common, whether it be to add mahogany highlights or hide strands of gray. In fact, nearly 70 percent of American women religiously visit the salon to alter their look, but, as I’m sure many of you have asked, is the beauty practice safe? Quite a few studies have found no connection between coloring your hair and cancer, and multiple studies have looked specifically at breast, bladder, and brain cancer finding no connection to these specific types either. Hair dye can, however, cause skin reactions like rashes, swelling, burning, and blisters, since many formulations contain chemicals such as p-Phenylenediamine (PPD). The good news is that hair dyes nowadays contain much less ammonia than they did 30 to 40 years ago.

Nervous about putting toxic chemicals on your hair and scalp? Then continue reading.

If you’re freaked out about chemicals, you can choose natural alternatives to toxic hair dyes. They’re mostly plant derived, but some do contain a fair share of chemicals as well, so read the labels or ask your colorist about them. The only completely natural hair dye is henna, but not everyone wants to have orangey-reddish hair. These natural hair dyes are not only better for your health, they’re also better for the environment and our waterways. Think about all the chemicals that get flushed down the sink at salons. It’s one incentive to encourage you to stick with your natural hair color and embrace your grays when the time comes.

For hair and beauty advice and treatments call Re’Voil Hair & Beauty on 0161 950 9933 or visit the website via www.revoil.co.uk – hairdressers in Manchester

Hair dye allergy left woman looking like ‘Elephant Woman’

Re'Voil — Sun, 05 Jul 2009 19:28:16 +0000

(Drafted from www.telegraph.co.uk)

A woman was rushed to hospital after an allergic reaction to a hair dye left her looking like the “Elephant Woman”.

Paula Pratt was left temporarily blind after she suffered a massive allergic reaction to a hair dye Photo: SWNS

Paula Pratt, 38, struggled to breathe when her neck swelled up “like a rugby ball” and her bloated face left her temporarily blind when her eyelids closed over.

The horrific reaction was caused by a £5 Clairol ‘Nice n’ Easy’ permanent dye, which she had used to turn her greying hair a chocolate brown.

Married Paula says she followed the instructions on the box to the letter, and carried out a 48-hour reaction test before going ahead with the treatment.

She was taken to A&E where doctors managed to stop the swelling with a course of steroids and antihistamine tablets.

But Paula, from Bognor Regis, West Sussex., says she has been left emotionally scarred by the ordeal.

She said: “I went straight to see my GP but when I got there I looked like an alien with one side of my face was going out like a rugby ball.

“He took one look at me and sent me straight to A&E. By the time I got there the other side of my face had swelled up too.

“I couldn’t see my ears, the swelling must have gone out about three inches on either side. It was terrifying.”

The incident took place when Paula, a production manager, dyed her hair on June 7 to cover up a few stray grey hairs.

She went to work as usual the following day, but that evening her head, face and neck began swelling up like a balloon.

Her eyes closed, her scalp stretched and began to weep, and her throat swelled making it difficult to breathe.

She said: “I did everything it said on the tin and had no reaction to the 48 hour test, so my sister went ahead and dyed my hair for me.

“The next day my face was so bad both eyes were completely swollen shut and you couldn’t see my eyelashes. I looked like a sumo wrestler or the elephant woman.

“The swelling started travelling down my throat as well and it was hard to breathe normally.

“The worst bit was when my scalp started to weep.”

Paula contacted her local doctor who was so worried about her health that he referred her to St Richard’s Hospital in nearby Chichester for treatment.

She was given a seven-day course of steroids and antihistamines, and has now made a full recovery.

Despite the side-effects she suffered, Paula said she is not seeking compensation from Clairol.

She is now seeking advice from dermatologists to determine which ingredient in the dye caused the reaction.

But she urged other women to check for signs of an allergy before dying their hair.

She added: “I just want to make people aware of the reactions you can get to hair dyes. They’re not always as safe as people think.

“My doctor told me I cannot dye my hair ever again and I don’t really want to anyway. It’s put me off for life – I’d rather go grey than have that happen again.”

Clairol said reactions like Paula’s were rare and that safety was a priority for the company.

A spokeswoman said: “We are very sorry to hear about Ms. Paula Pratt’s experience after using a Clairol product.

“Allergic reactions are very rare, however, we do recommend that all consumers conduct a 48 hour allergy test before each and every use of our colourant products.”

Please feel free to call Re’Voil Hair & Beauty to ensure this does not happen to you, or book an appointment 0n 0161 950 9933 or via www.revoil.co.uk and leave it to the professionals – professional hair colourists Manchester

Summer Weddings: Ultimate Summer Wedding Hair Guide

Re'Voil — Sun, 05 Jul 2009 19:22:48 +0000

(Drafted from ww2.7online.com)

Warm breezes, sunshine, and unwanted frizzy hair — while summertime weddings may seem picture-perfect, the weather can do a number on your moody mane. Check out our hairstyle tips to get stunning strands for your warm-weather wedding.

Updos

Style: Whether sleek for an elegant look or slightly disheveled for a more rustic style, updos are a perfect way to get chic summer hair. Knots, bun, and twists of all shapes and sizes have made their way to the altar.

Get the look: Comb your hair with a wide-tooth comb and prep your hair with primer or mousse to keep flyaways at bay. Blow-dry your mane on a low setting or let it air dry. Once it’s completely dry, curl your strands with hot rollers or use a curling iron and set with Velcro curlers. Leave the rollers in until your hair is cool, which will help retain the curl. Next, take out the curlers and slightly tease the base of each wave for added volume. Once you’re finished, apply a thin layer of hair serum to your hands and gently tousle. Sweep your tresses back into a low bun, twist, or knot. Don’t worry about getting it perfect — the slightly messy look will exaggerate the soft summertime style.

Down ‘Dos

Style: From long, ethereal waves to glam pin curls, soft, flowing hair provides an instant laid-back look to any warm-weather wedding. Celebs like Jennifer Aniston, Avril Lavigne, and Marcia Cross donned effortlessly gorgeous wedding down ‘dos.

Get the look: Start off by combing your hair straight with a paddle brush and removing any knots. Work in a curl enhancer from root to tip and scrunch. Let your strands air dry and tousle, or blow-dry on the lowest setting with a diffuser to reduce frizz. Set your strands in hot rollers for a more structured, glamorous look, or use a large-barrel curling iron for an unruly style — be sure to pin to retain the wave. Spritz with a light finishing spray for hold and shine; then gently remove the curlers or pins. Finish by adding a little pomade to your fingertips and working it into your roots. If you’re worried your hair will appear too plain, add braids or twists for extra depth.

Highlights

Style: Sun-kissed highlights are the look of the moment for summertime tresses. Not only do natural highlights add intensity, they also photograph better.

Get the look: Opt for a variety of color levels, which add movement and texture. Brunettes should never go lighter than what the sun would naturally do to their hair. For blondes, the key is depth; add various tones of flaxen for soft color. If you want a less-structured and streak-free look, try baliage — a salon technique where a stylist paints the highlights color freehand-style, rather than using the traditional foils. The result is a natural look that blends with your roots and color.

Taming Flyaways

Style: You want shiny, silky smooth hair but humid weather can leave your strands frizzy and out-of-control, while drier climates can create split ends and straw-like locks. Keep your surroundings in mind when choosing your wedding hairstyle.

Get the look: If your hair tends to get frizzy, consider an updo that’s loose around the hairline and nape of your neck, which will conceal any frizz. For hair worn down in drier areas, condition your hair with a mask the night before and apply a curl enhancer and SPF to keep your locks looking refreshed and hydrated. Have pomade and finishing spray on hand throughout the day for touch-ups.

Updos

Down ‘Dos

Highlights

Style: Sun-kissed highlights are the look of the moment for summertime tresses. Not only do natural highlights add intensity, they also photograph better.

Taming Flyaways

For summer beauty and hair styles or that perfect wedding look call Re’Voil Hair & Beauty on 0161 950 9933 or visit the website via www.revoil.co.uk – wedding hair and beauty in Manchester