 First things first, there’s something we need to make very clear. As you’ve probably seen with many a male celebrity, there is a world of difference between simply deciding not to cut your hair one day, and growing your hair out with actual effort. And yes, you can tell the difference between the two. There are a few things you can do to make sure you don’t fall into the former category though, starting with…  Get As Many Opinions As Possible Before you decide to go full-Fabio, do a serious evaluation as to whether the product of your spent time and effort is actually gonna look good or not. Take a look in the mirror, use a snapchat filter, ask your family, ask your Mrs, ask your mates, ask anyone how they reckon you’d look with long hair. Also, don’t be afraid to cut it back if you don’t think it’s going to go as well as you thought. There’s no shame in trying, but we can’t all be Chris Hemsworth.  Match Your Style To Your Features There’s a few things that can determine just how good your mane is likely to look, and they all rest on your face. Having thicker hair in certain places (for instance a heavier top and thinner sides, or vice versa), can help accentuate or balance the features of your mug, meaning it’s important to get everything proportioned correctly. If you have large features (big nose, big lips etc.) or a rounder face, go for bigger, larger, more textured styles to soften them. Early Mick Jagger is a good example. If you have smaller features and a thinner face, a thinner, longer style is probably more suitable. Think Zlatan or Jared Leto.  Adjust Your Style As It Grows Of course, before you reach a glorious mane you’re going to go through months of awkward lengths, styles and unruliness that’ll make you question whether or not you want to continue. The answer to this issue is twofold. One, make sure you’re giving your hair the best chance to grow healthily by eating a decent diet and using conditioning products as it grows. Two. Don’t be afraid to get a little product involved to keep things looking presentable. It’ll take time for your hair to reach a long enough length to weigh itself down and look properly natural, so you may have to compromise for a while. Once It’s Grown, Let Your Barber Take the Reigns If you’ve grown your hair out right, it should need as little maintenance as possible to make it look good. If you want to blow dry it, go for it, but lay off on the styling products, unless of course you’re trying out for a Motley Crue tribute act. The hallmark of a grown-out hairstyle that works is that it should look good sitting naturally. If it doesn’t, then let your barber fix it or consider a change of style altogether. That being said, take care of your hair. Short hair might let you get away with being a little more relaxed on the shampoo and conditioner, but as any girl will tell you, long hair won’t afford you that luxury.  Always Keep It In Check Keeping your hair healthy often boils down to making sure you’re touching it as little as possible, but depending on how long you decide to go, you’re gonna have to figure out ways to make sure it’s not going everywhere when you’re playing sport, doing manual labour or even just walking in a windy day. The key here is to experiment with what suits you. Take as much inspiration as you’d like when it comes to buns, ponytails, headbands, bandannas or whatever, as long as you’re avoiding the top knot. Need More Motivation… Growing hair out, men? Check out these 55 medium length hairstyle ideas for men. From DMARGE
 When we reach for a new food or skin care product, many of us turn to Google to find out what is in it. We want to know what makes it “good” for us or if it will “work” to make us look better and more youthful. Unfortunately, most people do not do this when picking out hair care products, and our scalp is often given little thought. Do you know what shampoo really is or why you even use it? Did you know you have a choice and there are many shampoo alternatives that give better results? Find out more about the no-poo method and why ditching the shampoo is not as crazy as it sounds. What Does the No-Poo Method Even Mean? For those of you that may not have heard of the no-poo movement, it is the choice to not use a shampoo that contains harsh detergents to cleanse your hair. Whenever I approach this conversation with a new client, the majority of the time they are unaware that using traditional shampoos means putting detergent on a scalp and stripping the oils that a scalp and hair need to be healthy. Over the years, more and more people have created their own techniques for healthier scalp cleansing and are actively falling into the no-poo crew. Here are some compelling reasons why you should, too. Why Switch to the No Shampoo Hair Care What made you buy the shampoo and/or conditioner taking up space in your shower? Was it the way it lathers up and releases a pretty scent, was it the cool packaging that hooked you, or did someone tell you that you needed to have it? What if I told you that it lathers because it contains detergents that are not supposed to be on your scalp and scents that are more than likely artificial and irritants? Detergent is an amazing cleaning agent. It is great at stripping away everything on your scalp, but it doesn’t pay any attention to what is being stripped away. Think of the things you use detergent on. Clothes, cars, floors… Now imagine putting shampoo, which has detergent, on your body or your face. At this point, you might give me an uneasy look. Hear me out though, you have immediate reasons as to why you would not do this: it would dry your skin out, be too hard, make you break out, etc. Why then do you think it is safe and necessary on your scalp? Is the skin on your scalp really that different from any other skin on your body? The answer is no. However, what makes it different offers more reasons as to why you don’t want detergent touching the scalp. Your scalp has a protective layer of oil called sebum. Sebum is the body’s defensive layer to protect your scalp. Shampoo (or rather detergent) is such a “great’’ cleanser that it strips this away. This sends signals to your scalp that its defensive layer has been removed and it then goes into overdrive trying to get it back. This can lead to overproduction of oils (oily scalp) and the inability to make up for the loss (dryness). As a result, your hair feels brittle, dry, and rough. What happens next? Well, the makers of shampoo strategically lean into this because they now have created a need to mask the damage that has been done, and here is where conditioner, masks, and treatments come into play. These products bandage up the damage that has been caused and now you are reliant on a second and possibly third staple product in your routine. If you do not strip the sebum from the scalp and rough up the cuticle, there is no need for conditioners because you are not damaging the hair, to begin with. Shampoo being bad for your scalp should be enough reason for anyone to seek out other options, but an even stronger argument would be for those individuals who color or highlight their hair. Any shampoo, regardless of being “sulfate-free”, “paraben-free”, “organic”, “natural”, or labeled “color-safe,” will strip your color. If it lathers, it has detergent and detergent will strip color and toner and dull highlights. Those buzz words listed above just mean that your shampoo is a step above cheap drugstore options. Your color is most protected when no detergent is introduced to your haircare routine. Shampoo Alternatives When you choose to use no shampoo in your hair, you can take up one of many no-poo method variants that have been developed out of the need for people to cleanse their hair without using detergent. These include using only water, rinsing hair with DIY creations, or using cleansing conditioners and creams. Let’s explore the most popular ones:  H2O Only The first and most extreme method for opposing shampoo is to stop using any form of cleanser altogether and just use water. This is one I would not recommend. Dirt and build-up occur on the scalp from the environment every day. When you add styling products to that, you will eventually feel dirty and your hair may even start to smell. This will also clog the hair follicle. You do need to clean the scalp in some way to keep your scalp balanced and stimulate hair growth and overall health.  DIY Shampoo Substitutes Another popular route among individuals who embrace essential oils and natural hair remedies is DIY no-poo concoctions. I am all for this! Still, if this appeals to you, I do encourage you to do research on hair types and each oil that Pinterest or your favorite blog may tell you to incorporate. Certain oils such as coconut oil are not good for all hair types (it can cause breakage on color treated and fine hair). Many DIY versions use Apple Cider Vinegar, which is great for removing build-up. You can mix a couple tablespoons of ACV with water and apply to the scalp; scrub and rinse. You should follow this with a form of conditioning, as ACV is acidic and can dry the hair out if used alone.  Conditioners This is the method most people associate with the no-poo method. With this approach you don’t use a shampoo, hence the term “no-poo”, and go straight to a conditioner. Many of these products are marketed towards thicker, coarser, curly textures, and The Curly Girl Method encourages to take up this routine. The downside to this method is there is no cleansing component and it will not be suitable for all hair types. If you have tried a traditional no-poo and been unsuccessful, it is probably because you need a specific cleansing component.  Cleansing Creams and Conditioners My go-to method is using a strategically created cleansing cream. What makes this different from the conditioner-only method is that it has a balance of cleansing and conditioning properties. This makes it a great option for all hair textures and densities. The only thing I will use on my clients, husband, kids, and my own hair is New Wash by Hairstory. Cleansing creams can take the guesswork out of figuring out what is needed to effectively wash and cleanse hair. Still, do not rely on the labels and be sure to look into the ingredients when selecting a cleansing cream or conditioner. Silicones and surfactants are components of many products that should be avoided. New Wash, in particular, uses aloe vera and essential oils to gently remove dirt and impurities from hair while not disrupting the scalp’s natural oils or stripping away color. No-Poo Method Mistakes to Avoid To make the no shampoo method work, be sure to avoid these common mistakes:
If you avoid these mistakes and commit to a gentle detergent-free hair care routine, good hair results are sure to follow. My clients know they have the choice to use whatever they wish to care for their hair; however, if they chose to use shampoo, I cannot guarantee longevity and they will need to see me more frequently for maintenance. If you are curious about making the switch, I encourage you to try it out and commit for one month. Whether you have fine hair or coarse hair, virgin or color-treated hair, curly or straight, ditching shampoo and finding the best no-poo hair cleansing method for you will greatly improve the health and appearance of your hair. Feel free to contact me with any questions about no-poo or discounts for the no-poo products. from The Right Hairstyles Hair by Brian's Recommendation  Hairstory: New Wash You can buy this directly from me online. You will receive 20% off your first purchase as well as free shipping when they use this direct link. All you have to do is click on this link, create a customer account, and their system will automatically discount you RIGHT before check checkout - no coupon or referral code necessary! Product Info  Scalp Massager Shampoo Brush About this item * Scalp Massager for All Hair Types -- Deal with curly, straight, thick, thin, dry hair or oily hair at ease. Scalp scrubber brush is perfect for you and your family. * Building a Healthy Scalp --Fixing the hair problem(oil, dirty, itchy) with a simple scalp massager and gently brush with shampoo. * Dual-use Scalp Brush: remove excess oil for deep cleaning when wet brushing, promote blood circulation, stress release&ease your mind with dry brushing.  Hyalogic Biotin Hair Thickening Spray w/Hyaluronic Acid for Thin Hair and to Promote Thicker Fuller Looking Hair and Healthy Scalp About this item
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All products featured are independently selected by Hair by Brian. However, when you buy something through these retail links, I may earn an affiliate commission.  Keep your hair happy and healthy all summer long using these natural, chemical-free methods. Natural hair rules in the summer! Now is the season to let go of perfect, sleek hairdos and embrace that loose, natural look. Learn how to protect your hair from the heat, sun, and humidity without turning it into an endless battle. 1. Cover up! Use a scarf or hat to cover your head when you’re out in the sun. Not only does this provide extra UV protection, but it also helps your scalp to retain moisture. A hat reduces damage caused by wind, especially if your hair is prone to tangling, and protects colour-treated hair. 2. Put your hair up in loose, comfortable styles A messy braid is ideal for keeping your hair under control and minimizing exposure to the sun. Tight hairstyles can be damaging because they tend to pull and tear hair, especially if your hair is dry from the summer heat. 3. Wash less often Frequent washing strips your scalp of its natural oils, which in turn stimulates additional oil production and makes you feel the need to wash it even more. Try just rinsing in the shower after a day at the beach or pool, and see if that gets rid of some extra oil. Use a homemade or natural dry shampoo, such as cornstarch, in place of regular shampoo to go a bit longer without washing. Another quick fix is to dab a cotton ball soaked in witch hazel along your scalp to dissolve excess oil.  4. Reduce the heat Try to blow-dry your hair as little as possible. It is already exposed to a significant amount of heat on a daily basis in the summer, and it will probably air-dry quickly anyways, so give the blow dryer a break and go au naturel if you can. Avoid flat-irons, too, as they will do further damage to already-dry hair. Plus, a sleek hairstyle only makes that frizz stand out more. 5. Spritz & Seal Make a concoction of water, aloe vera juice, and avocado oil. Keep it on hand to spritz whenever a bit of moisture and/or control is needed. Another good option is argan oil mixed with water.  6. Condition always Rinse with apple cider vinegar diluted in water for a quick natural conditioner. Use some coconut oil or shea butter (careful with this, since it can be heavy) to smooth, de-frizz, and moisturize your locks after washing. The oil will give some shine and, if you have wavy hair, create natural, air-dried curls. Try a natural deep conditioning treatment once a week to get that extra bit of moisture into your hair. 7. No more swimmer’s hair If you’re a blond who turns green after a dip in the pool, try rinsing out your wet hair with 1⁄4 cup apple cider vinegar and 2 cups water to get rid of discolouration and dullness. It helps to get your hair wet before entering the water because then it won't absorb as much chlorine. 8. Add some sunscreen There are shampoos that contain UV protection, but most of those are chemical-laden, conventional shampoos that I’d recommend avoiding. One quick way to add some protection is to run your hands lightly through your hair after applying sunscreen to your body.  9. Try a hot oil rinse Coconut, olive, and avocado oils are good at penetrating the hair shaft. Shampoo hair as usual, then work in oil from ends to roots. Rinse, then condition as usual. Your hair should feel moisturized afterward, but not greasy. 10. Fake that beach look if you haven't been there One blogger recommends this homemade sea salt spray, made with 1 tsp sea salt and 1 tsp coconut oil, mixed with water in a small spray bottle. Spray and scrunch to get that desirable wavy beach look. The coconut oil will counteract the dryness of the salt.  11. Use a wide-tooth comb instead of a brush  Avoid pulling anything through your hair when it’s wet, since that’s when it’s most susceptible to breaking. Wide-tooth combs are most gentle for untangling hair, as brushes can pull and tear when they snag strands. From Treehugger
 More often than not, it seems like we’re telling you to put more effort into your lifestyle. Get your suits tailored. Up your grooming game. Revamp your apartment. Upgrade your gadgets. Learn to drink like a classy bastard. Just once, wouldn’t it be nice if we simplified things instead? Today we’re going to do just that, and tell you how rock dishevelled-but-dapper bed head hairstyles. It’s the best of both worlds: handsome as hell, but doesn’t try too hard to be that way. Keep these pointers in mind if your locks are ready for a new look:
From DMARGE
Your Guide To Choosing The Correct Brush For Every Look Brush choice can make or break a technique. Choosing the right brush is like deciding what color, styling product or hot tool will best achieve a look with ease and speed. That’s why we collabed with Olivia Garden to create the ultimate guide to choosing brushes for blowouts, balayage, waves and more. Plus, some pro tips to show you how it’s done! Keep scrollin’ and don’t forget to screenshot your faves.  1. Round Thermal Brush Best For:
Why? Large holes allow for great airflow, and ceramic-coated barrels dry the hair faster. Bristles are super heat-resistant AND ionic, so hair gets shiny and bouncy. 2. Square Thermal Brush Best For:
Why? Square shapes allow you to create more versatile looks, and large holes help with airflow. Soft-tip ionic bristles make the hair shinier and are gentle on the hair and scalp. Pro Tip: The square thermal brush creates volume while the flat side creates straight, sleekness vs. the round thermal brush that creates a C-shape in the hair. 3. Ionic & Boar Paddle Brush Best For:
Why? Boar bristles distribute the hair’s natural oils for smooth and shiny hair, eliminating frizz and flyaways. The ionic and boar bristle combo is perfect for styling and brushing thick or curly hair. 4. Round Boar Brush Best For:
Why? Boar bristles distribute the hair’s natural oils, resulting in super shiny hair. The tightly packed bristles give excellent tension control when straightening. Also, remember when using this brush on curls and waves, it is NOT a detangler! 5. Detangling Paddle Brush Best For:
Why? Ball-point tips are gentle on the hair and scalp, and the snag-free design makes it easier for the brush to gently glide and detangle the hair from roots to ends. 6. Vent Soft Tip Paddle Brush Best For:
Why? The large flat area straightens hair, and the vented brush head cuts down blow-drying time. The ionic bristles penetrate all the way to the scalp with gentle ball-point tips. 7. Color & Care Brush Best For:
Why? Dual length bristles easily penetrate shallow and deep layers at the same time for full saturation without gaps. The brush removes excess product and redistributes where it’s needed for a natural blend. 8. Styler Brush Best For:
Why? Ball-point tips glide through the hair for faster styling, and the ceramic plate retains heat while you style. The heat-resistant, semi-circular pad helps shape the hair. 9. Teasing Brush Best For:
Why? The narrow brush design is perfect for building for back-combing and building volume or texture. The tail helps for sectioning with precision, separating hair, tucking and lifting. 10. Should I Use A Brush Cleaner & How Often? Short answer: YES! Whatever brush you choose, it’s ESSENTIAL to regularly clean—Mickey recommends using the Brush Cleaner between clients who lose a lot of hair and daily. This is a must for maintaining a clean, professional appearance and allows the brushes to do their jobs better! Tips from Behind the Chair
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October 2024
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