 | Kim McIntosh, a former graduate of Xenon Int'l. School of Hair Design serves as the school’s Director and is a shareholder in the business. She holds a Cosmetology, Esthetics and Instructor's license in Kansas and Nebraska. She has worked behind the chair and managed some of the most prominent salons in the Wichita area. As an educator, her primary goal has been to provide the beauty industry with successful licensed professionals. Having served in the past as Second Vice-President on the Board of Directors for the National Cosmetology Association of Kansas, Kim is currently a Director on the national board for the American Association of Cosmetology Schools. You may contact Kim at (316) 943-5516. |
Beauty & Fashion
2003-08-01 09:57:00
Taming curls
: I have naturally curly hair and every morning is a battle. How can I tame this mess into a professional style, without damaging my hair?
ANSWER: Since you did not mention if your curly hair is due to ethnicity, I feel it's important to address the different types of curly hair, as this is what determines the correct products and procedures.As with any medical condition, an experienced professional is trained to diagnose and prescribe treatment. A stylist's hands touching a person's hair, will tell them many things. For example: density (how many hairs per square inch), porosity (the hairs ability to absorb moisture), and thickness of hair (how thick or "fat" each hair strand is). As the stylist is examining the hair, they will ask a series of questions concerning ethnicity, products currently being used on the hair, lifestyle, and client preferences. This is no time to hide any facts about previous hair treatments that you may have performed yourself! There are a few rules that apply to any type of curly hair. Always use products that are pH Balanced (see the April 03 issue of The Q & A Times, "How does pH work?"), curly hair shrinks after drying, when choosing a shorter hairstyle for fine curly hair, remember that it will require more styling maintenance and more frequent cutting, curls seldom ever dry the same way each time they are styled, and incorrect applications of perms or straightening solutions can dissolve the hair fibers and lead to breakage. Take care of your hair.If you prefer your curly hair in a straightened style, there are a few tips to remember. While stretching your hair with a brush, apply heat starting at the roots with a good grip, give a tug and stretch it straight. A natural bristle brush has a better grip when you need to pull the hair for drying. Always use a thermal product prior to applying heat to the hair to protect it and reduce the chance of frizzing. Using the right tools for the job will help each of the processes. Every stylist has many tools in their drawer; make sure that they use the right ones for your wonderful curly hair. And, don't be afraid to ask questions so that you can achieve the results you are looking for at home.Next month, I will address ethnic curly hair.
