Bridal styles for fine, limp hair

For brides with fine, limp, flat, silky-smooth and straight hair types

If you want to look extra special on your wedding day but struggle with creating any volume on the best of days, here are some ideas to break out of the rut and try something extra special for your extra special day :)

Source: Young-Hairstyle

The following styles are mostly upstyles as it is generally not recommended to wear your hair down if it has the potential to fall flat and frustrate you as the bride.

Creating fullness in an upstyle 

Source: beautytrendhairstyles

Apply volumising mousse to towel-dried hair. Then blow-dry with extra volume and height at the roots, or set in medium to large rollers and blow or flat iron gently for smoothness, and to loosen the curl a bit.
Comb the hair to one side and pin in place as a low side ponytail. Taking the loose piece of hair of the pony altogether, twist the hair round creatively and pin up.

Make that teasing work

Source: trendy-hairstyles-world

Usually if you try to create volume with teasing on fine thin hair, it just looks like a frizzy mess and eventually flops out right? How about making a bold, funky statement with back-combing and teasing and then fix in place with hair accessories so it doesn't have a chance to fall flat, and is actually being pushed into the bubble shape. 

Obviously use all the usual styling products and lots of hairspray but make sure that the style is secure.

A messy chignon

Source: hairstyles-updo

Another way to make teasing work is to create a messy chignon whereby all the hair is teased on top and the chignon at the back acts as a foundation to support the teased bubble from falling down. This is a casual-chic look and best worn with Audrey Hepburn style make-up as shown by the model, with porcelain skin, striking dominant lashes and nude lipstick.

Volume in the nape

Source: trendy-hairstyles-world

You may not be able to create fullness on top but with long hair all the length of the hair can be used to create fullness in the nape (back of the neck) for a more dramatic, glamorous effect. 

This style might not work for ladies with a high hairline. If your hairline is low on your neck then this style can be secured in place.

Keeping it simple

The less you have to fuss over your hair and worry about whether it will hold the style on your wedding day the better.

From : disneyfairytales

For this style, you can use an upstyle donut (updo bun) which is a cushion about the size and shape of a donut used to create a base for your hair to stay in place for an upstyle with extra volume. In this way, the hair does not need to be teased as much and can be smoothed over the donut and looks like your natural hair texture without the usual flatness, and it won't flop!

Making use of a hairpiece and extensions

 

Clip a textured hairpiece on the crown. Use your natural hair to create small braids/plaits in the hair and pin into the upstyle. Curl some long pieces randomly out to create balance and fullness around to the face. Extensions can even be used for extra volume and length. 

Source: hair.becomegorgeous

 Smooth your natural hair in front and add a hairpiece at the back. This will be easier, firmer and more secure than using your own hair. 

Source: pinkindiaink

Also using a cushion as a base for the upstyle, wrap the hair messily round a more triangular-shaped cushion and pin in place. Delicate hair accessories complete the whimsical charm of this style.

Rolled and twisted

Source: lifestyle.msn.com

Jazz up straight hair with a little wavy texture

Source: bellasugar

Curve your hair slightly using a curling tong or straightening iron and pin delicately for a natural, messy but sleek beach hairstyle. Twist front pieces into each other and spray for hold.

Source: day-wedding.net

Surprisingly, this style actually works best with medium shoulder-length hair, and not long hair.

Side Braid/Plait

Source: theslightlyobsessivebride

Source: bellasugar

If you have fine hair but lots of it, a delicate braid along the side of your hair will add interest to an otherwise simple upstyle.

Source: anitakurl

Accessories

I would also recommend using lots of hair accessories to create fullness in your style. Lots of small flowers, diamante clips or pearls in the hair will add interest and a bit more shape without being too heavy on your head.

The more delicate the hair clips/pieces the better, as it will suit your hair type and will not put strain on the style.

Good luck with finding the right style for your wedding day. I know it's not easy when your hair doesn't seem to want to co-operate but just keep it simple and close to your natural look, and use some of the tricks I spoke about in this blog and you can create a style that will be special, and you, all in one :)

Casual Upstyle Trend 2011 - Double Hair Knot

Trendspotting 2011: Double hair knot

For medium to long hair with some natural texture, wave or loose curl.

Texture can also be created by plaiting/braiding damp hair and letting it dry overnight, or tease the hair a bit, hairspray and leave to dry before styling.

You will need:
- texture spray/cream or beach spray
- hair dryer (and a diffuser if you have one)
- hair spray
- about 2-6 bobby pins (depending on how thick & heavy your hair is)

1) Apply the texture spray or cream to towel dried hair, scrunch and leave to dry naturally or gently blow with a dryer.





2) When your hair is dry and textured, choose a parting which will most flatter your face shape and the style - a deep side-swept fringe works well with this style - then pin or spray in place if desired.

3) Divide the rest of the hair into two sections and tie them in a knot in the nape (back) of the neck...















4) ..Then knot again and secure with the bobby pins (hide them in the knot for the most effortless effect).

5) Finish with hairspray to keep your style secure :)

Images from blogspot and mixmedia.com
Information sources: My Fashion Pulse and Everything Fab

Secrets to Strong, Healthy Hair

It was an honour to be asked to write as a guest contributor by Monique of Oh Darling Bride and even more of a pleasure to work with her.

My first post for brides-to-be is entitled 'Secrets to Strong, Healthy Hair', and begins with an introduction from Monique...

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Every bride-to-be wants a glowing, shiny crowning glory on her wedding day. I know I do!

 Chene, hair styled by Catherine Faull. Photography by Abigail K. See the wedding here.

If you’re trying to maintain healthy locks for your big day, read Catherine Faull, hairstylist and new Oh Darling Bride contributor, top tips to strong, healthy, shiny hair.

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Click here to read the rest of the post.

You may also be interested in these posts:
Treat Your Tresses
Healthy Hair From The Inside Out
Hair Loss And Thinning

Aromatherapy: Essential Oils for treating Hair and Scalp

Many of the essential oils used in aromatherapy are great for treating the hair and scalp. The oils often have anti-oxidant and anti-bacterial properties and are able to normalize the natural oils of the scalp and treat a number of common problems like dandruff, oily scalp and poor circulation.

Some are even known for stimulating new and lustrous hair growth.

Pampering and Treating yourself

Aromatherapy also has the added benefits of stress-relief, especially when combined with massage. Some of the following oils are even beneficial for alleviating depression, anxiety and headaches. So read on to discover the wonders of aromatherapy oils :)

Basil is great for controlling oily hair and dealing with stress. It even promotes hair growth.
(May irritate sensitive scalps)

Bay

is good for circulation, hair growth and improving the general health of the scalp.(May irritate sensitive scalps).

Cedarwood

is soothing, calming and relieves irritation. It helps to re-balance an oily scalp and alleviates dandruff.



Chamomile is a mild, soothing and antiseptic. It can calm dry, irritated skin and is good for reducing the symptoms of dandruff and treating allergic reactions. It also aids in skin regeneration. Chamomile is used for fine to normal hair and can refresh and enliven golden highlights in the hair.

Fennel

is anti-aging and cleansing. It is also balancing for an oily scalp and promotes the general health of the scalp.

Geranium

is up-lifting and balancing. It treats lice, poor circulation and stress.

Grapefruit

helps clear oiliness and promotes hair growth. It also alleviates stress, depression, headaches, tiredness and moodiness.

Lavender

is considered one of the safest oils and used for normal hair. It can also be used as a soothing and calming scalp treatment for itchiness, oiliness, dandruff and even lice! Lavender also treats depression and stress.

Lemon removes sebum and acts as a very effective anti-bacterial treatment for dry scalp, oily/greasy scalp, dandruff, lice, and underactive sebaceous glands. It can also be used to improve circulation, concentration levels and energy levels whilst reducing stress and alleviating headaches.
Lemon is can also enhance golden highlights.
(Avoid direct sunlight exposure when using lemon oil)

Myrrh is a great oil for detoxifying and alleviating skin ailments. It treats dry hair, dandruff and lice, and regulates oil production; especially under-active sebaceous glands.

Neem oil has a very strong smell; a combination of peanut and garlic. It helps reduce scalp inflammation and itching and is able to treat head lice too.

Patchouli stimulates cell regeneration and is able to treat a number of scalp disorders. It is great for removing dandruff and controling oil production.
(Has a very strong smell which some people can't tolerate and large doses may trigger appetite loss).

Peppermint

is refreshing and cooling. It helps reduce redness, itchiness and irritation. It's great for itchy dandruff problems and cooling inflammation on the scalp. Peppermint is used for dry hair. It promotes hair growth and is beneficial for treating headaches and stress.
(Avoid if your skin is sensitive to menthol. Should also not be used for small children).

** ROSEMARY **

is the wonder oil of essential oils for the hair as it has a pronounced, positive effect on the health of the hair and scalp. With a pleasant, tantalizing and stimulating smell, it increases the circulation to the scalp and is especially known to help promote and stimulate hair growth.  Rosemary oil is great for treating scalp disorders (eg. oiliness and dandruff). It is also beneficial for alleviating headaches and migraines. When added to shampoo it not only increases the circulation to the scalp and thereby improving hair growth, but also acts as a general conditioner and tonic for the hair and scalp. It furthermore stimulates the brain, improves memory and promotes clear thinking too!
(However it is not suitable for people suffering from epilepsy or high blood pressure).

Sandalwood

is calming and relaxing. It relieves a dry, dehydrated scalp, itching and inflammation, alleviates stress and depression and has anti-aging properties. It also has a balancing effect on oily scalp.

Tea Tree cleanses and purifies. It is anti-bacterial and immune-boosting. Great for treating mild dandruff, head lice and regulating the sebaceous glands - oily/dry scalp.

(Not suitable for sensitive skin; may cause an allergic reaction. Also not to be used on open skin as it is very potent).

Ylang-ylang is fragrant oil which is soothes, calms and balances - good for the body, mind and soul. It helps to balance skin regeneration and stabilize sebum production (oily/dry/dandruff). It also has a stimulating effect on the scalp which promotes more luxurious hair growth.
(Over usage or large doses can cause nausea and headaches in some people. May also cause sensitivity).

Since I'm not an expert in aromatherapy I won't be telling you how to mix any of the oils for your personal needs; I am merely highlighting the benefits of essential oils and would like to promote an appreciation for aromatherapy in hair care, as you may find more and more brands using oils in their products, especially shampoo.

What is even more exciting is that the more forward-thinking brands are even incorporating essential oils into their styling products, meaning we will be treating our hair and scalp (and also our bodies) to soothing, healing formulas rather than the old chemical formulas with parabens and perfumes (no perfumes are needed when using essential oils as they provide naturally pleasing fragrances). For more information, see my blog posts about Naturalmente.

CAUTION:
Do not use essential oils on broken or irritated skin. In high concentrations, essential oils may irritate sensitive skin.
Never apply directly to the skin without mixing with a base or carrier oil (eg. Jojoba oil, Olive oil, Hazelnut oil, Sesame oil, Hemp Seed oil, Almond oil, Grapeseed oil or Soybean oil). Keep out of reach of children. Keep away from the eyes. Do not ingest.
Seek medical advice if pregnant, suffering from epilepsy, or using homeopathic remedies. 



If you enjoyed this post you may also enjoy: Caring for a Sensitive Scalp
Healthy Hair From The Inside Out
Treat Your Tresses

Naturalmente - Shampoos & Conditioners/Treatments

An informative blog on the Naturalmente shampoos and conditioner/treatments.

These products make use of aromatherapy essential oils and therefore provide effective treatments for the scalp and hair without being as prescriptive as conventional shampoos and conditioners. The reason being that they promote  health and well-being naturally and not chemically.

In other words a Naturalmente shampoo that can be used for oily hair is not necessarily only used for oily scalp and can safely be used by others too. The overall needs of your hair and the overall benefits of the shampoo need to be assessed.

 As an introduction to the Naturalmente method for hair care we look at how Naturalmente addresses the 3 basic needs of healthy hair... Cleansing, Nourishing and Sealing: 

Shampoos - Cleansing

1. Rosemary & Lavender (deep cleansing; for removing build-up and oiliness and stimulating scalp circulation; also known for stimulating hair growth even for balding men - I have heard a number of first-hand accounts to prove this and it has worked for myself too)
2. Citrus (gentle cleansing; for children, sensitive scalps and fine hair - can be used to manage an oily scalp effectively)

 

Shampoos - Nourishing

1. Fennel & Geranium (hydrating; for dry, chemically treated and curly hair; also for dry scalp)
2. Aloe & Sandalwood (strengthening and balancing; for all hair types - normal and colour-treated)

 

How to use the Shampoo

Step 1: Gently massage a R5 coin size of shampoo onto wet hair.

Step 2: Rinse and repeat with half the amount.

When using Naturalmente shampoo remember that squeaky-clean hair is not the best result but rather the hair is thoroughly and gently cleansed whilst protecting the natural balance of the scalp environment.

Surface Conditioners - Seal in Softness & Shine

1. Yoghurt & Millet (repairing and revitalising; for naturally healthy shine)
2. Fruit Acids (refreshing, detangling and moisturising; for softness and shine)

Nourishing Treatment Conditioners

1. Fennel & Geranium (deep hydrating; for chemically treated hair)
2. Aloe & Sandalwood (strengthening and repairing; for weak, damaged hair)

How to Use the Conditioners & Treatments

The conditioners/treatments will not weigh your hair down but will hydrate, restructure and seal the hair strand. They are highly concentrated so less is more; small amounts are needed for day to day care and more generous quantities can be used on treatment days as follows:

• Day-to-day - Use a small amount on wet hair, work through the hair to the ends and then rinse as normal.
• Treatment Days - Remove excess water, apply in the same way, wrap or tie back the hair and leave it in for as long as you can (Minimum of 10 minutes preferably). To achieve deeper penetration, use a heated towel, or alternatively apply extra heat for a few minutes with a hair dryer.

Naturalmente does not contain any hormone-influencing parabens (which act as preservatives in many personal hygiene/cosmetic products) or the detergent-like sodium laureth/lauryl sulphate (which disrupts the natural moisture-balancing ability of the scalp). It is preserved naturally through the use of pure quality essential oils and also obtains it natural fragrances from the essential oils and not synthetic fragrances.

The best results will therefore be achieved when Naturalmente shampoos and treatments are used exclusively.