Haircare 101 for Men

 

Ladies, you’re sitting this one out – this week’s article is for the lads.

Men, let’s start by laying a few things on the table:

• Believe it or not, men are not the only gender who value physical appearance. Ladies appreciate a man who his well groomed – Trust me gentleman, it’s worth the effort! The ladies in your life will be happily surprised by your ability to groom yourself independently.
• Caring for your hair and appearance is not prissy. It’s just as important for men to take care of their hair as it is for women – no matter the length. Your hair is one of the main features people notice about you. Therefore, it’s an influential part of a first impression whether it be for a first date or first interview. 
• It doesn’t have to be complicated and time consuming. From cut to styling, haircare is reasonably straightforward. Acquire a slick, classic and versatile haircut. Know how to style it. Maintain your style with regular cleaning and trims. Simple!

So, it’s time to channel your inner-suave, your masculine style, the well-groomed man you know you are! Follow these tips and ride the wave of positive results.

THE PERFECT CUT

A professional salon experience and cut is the way to go – and we’re not just saying that! Well-trained stylists are highly skilled and equipped with professional advice to give you the finest style possible. A quality cut will suit your face shape, accentuate your best features (that chiselled jawline or those handsome eyes) and make your look younger and fresher. Ideally, you’ll want to opt for a low maintenance cut that works with your lifestyle and offers versatile styles fit for both casual and formal settings. We can help! Let us help you in finding that perfect slick andstylish cut (with a mischievous edge of course).

Note: Get your crop trimmed about every six weeks to remove damaged hair and prevent split ends (and in doing so aids hair growth!).

KEEP IT CLEAN

Cleaning your hair with a quality shampoo on a regular basis (at least 2 to 3 times a week) helps to remove dirt, excess oil and product build up – which is important for the keeping your hair in optimum growing condition. It's also an opportunity to give your scalp a quick scrub to exfoliate away dead skin cells (dandruff control) and boost circulation (to improve hair condition and boost hair growth). It’s a good idea to use a conditioner too, to avoid dry, brittle and frizzed hair. To get the best products for your hair and scalp type, come in and have a chat with us.

Note: Don’t be too rough when towel drying your hair – it can damage your hair causing frizziness and split ends.

STYLE PRODUCTS

Styling your hair doesn’t have to consist solely of smearing a big glop of gel through your hair. Although some occasions call for rock hard hairstyles, there are many more options!   

There are a huge variety of styling products that are designed to suit individual needs. From the sleek and groomed style of Mad Men to the roughed-up textured rock-star look, you can create your own unique looks with the right hair products (that consider everything from hair type, to the level of control and definition you’re after). Feel free toask us what we’d recommend – that’s what we’re here for!

Weather-proof hairstyles

We seem to be having a cracker of a summer so far with lots of warm sunny days - it’s just glorious! However, no matter the season our weather can be a tad fickle, making it difficult to maintain our carefully crafted hairstyles all day long. Whether it be the heat, the rain or the wind, the elements can create quite a challenge when we’re trying to fashion practical, pretty AND lasting hairstyles.

But all is not lost! We can solve this style dilemma with a few weather-resistant hairdos that tick all the boxes and will save you from having to resort to simply chucking your hair up in a ponytail! (Although, there’s nothing wrong with a simple and stunning pony every now and then.)

Take your pick!

Braids
As well as protecting your locks from the elements, plaited creations radiate a romantic and feminine charm. From a simple fishtail plait to a halo braid, weave a week of weather-proof hairdos with our ‘Braided Beauty’ article.

Headscarves

Artistically enfolding your tresses in beautiful fabrics is a stunning solution for a potential bad hair day. Practical (controlling wild and wayward strands) and super versatile (from casual daytime to chic evening looks), wrapping your locks in a stunning headscarf is an appealing option for both short and long hair. For a few styling ideas, read our ‘All hail the headscarf’ article.

Topknot

Take your basic ‘go-to’ ponytail to the next level with a simple and sassy topknot. Beat the elements, by sweeping your locks up in a plump chignon high on the crown of your head. Tousle your topknot and leave a few wispy strands loose for a relaxed daytime look, or smooth your tresses into a more structured bun for a sleek and elegant formal style. Learn how to fashion a superb topknot by reading our ‘Creating the perfect bun’ article.

Happy weather-proof styling!

P.S. If you haven't experienced the fabulous results of our recent renovations at the Northampton salon  - we'd love you to pop by sometime soon for a tea and a chat!

This one is for the ladies, ALL the ladies!

A few days ago we posted a cute watercolour picture of three lovely ladies enjoying some quality girl-time at the beach. It really stirred something in us about the importance of maintaining and nurturing our lady-friendships! Aside from the fact that girly dates are generally a heck of a lot of fun - they’re also invaluable to your physical and emotional wellbeing.

As careers, kids and other lifestyle changes ensue, our social life and special friendships often take a back seat. I can surely vouch for the fact that when work and family life gets busy, our girl-time is often first thing to be crossed off the agenda! However, prioritising quality time with our female companions is super important for our happiness and self worth. When we spend time with our ladyloves our body reacts by releasing our “feel good” hormone (oxytocin) - which also works as a natural stress-reducer and antidepressant.

A trusted support system is essential for both celebrating life’s triumphs and coping with defeats. Woman, are fantastic in all cases: we’re great at listening (and talking of course!), understanding, relating, laughing and crying TOGETHER. We’re pack animals by nature!

So, there’s enough evidence to prove that we need to revive our routine ladies get-togethers! All we need to do is book a date and ensure ample food, refreshments and some form of relaxation or pampering (whether it be a well needed chit chat or a nice long massage).

Here are some ideas for how you could spend your lady-time:

· Organise a high tea party – either at a local establishment, or host a DIY affair at home complete with Grandma’s tea set.

· Have a ‘homemade’ spa day with homemade facemasks and body treatments. Nibble on home-baked treats, sip spritzers (non alcoholic or alcoholic) and listen to a compilation of your favourite tunes.

· A night out – begin with a group trip to Pages Salons to get your hair styled and your nails polished. Whip on your favourite outfit and head out for an evening of dining and wining.

· Pick a nice sunny day, a beautiful local park and a yummy picnic filled with fresh cheeses, breads, fruit, and wine.

· Host a chick-flicks night! Cherry-pick a film to watch at your local cinema or rent a few old favourites for snuggly night in. Either way, don’t forget the popcorn, chocolate and ice-cream!

· Head out to your favourite shopping street for some retail therapy. Who needs to hire a personal shopper when you’ve got perfectly capable friends with honest opinions?!

· Sometimes, there’s nothing nicer than a simple coffee or brunch date.


Special time with special girls will make you feel like a trillion dollars, and will remind you that you’re worth every cent! Whether grand and luxurious, or simple and relaxed - a ladies day or night out is an essential indulgence you must afford yourself on a regular basis.

Start organising ladies!



Images courtesy of Back to Vintage