Treating Yourself and Your Hair
Keeping your hair healthy and shiny takes planning and commitment. It’s really easy for your hair to get the short end of the beauty stick. But, if you take just a few extra minutes during your hair care routine, it can make a different in the way you look and feel. Try some of the suggestions below to give yourself and your hair a special treat.
Shampoo Less. Avoid washing your hair every day. Washing is an important part of hair care, but if you do it too frequently you could end up damaging your hair. Aim to wash your hair every other day or even every three days if you can. “Hair looks its best when the natural oils from the scalp are allowed to reach the ends,” says Sally Hershberger, executive style director for John Frieda/Sheer Blonde. Even though the shampoo bottles advise you to “rinse and repeat”, washing only one time will get your hair as clean as it needs to be.
Brush Gently. After you’ve found a brush that is right for your hair type, texture, and density, brush your hair gently. After you’ve washed your hair, run your fingers through it to untangle the knots. Allow your hair to dry and then take a wide-toothed comb and run it through your hair, beginning close to the ends and away from the roots. Begin at the ends and work your way up. “Anything more than that is unnecessary friction, which can lead to breakage,” says Amy J. McMichael, M.D., an associate professor of dermatology at Wake Forest University School of Medicine, in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.
Treat Dandruff. If those little white flakes are getting the best of you, don’t mask them. Treat them. Dandruff is obviously not a life threatening disease, but it can worsen if it’s not treated. Start by visiting your local drug store and purchase two or three shampoos designed to treat dandruff. You may have to experiment a little bit until you find one that works for you. Once you find the product that rids your hair of dandruff, make sure you keep searching for at least one more product that works, too. Often, your favorite shampoo will stop working if you’ve used it too frequently. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to have an alternate shampoo at the ready.
Consider purchasing a quality wig. Picture exactly how you’d like your hair to look. Think of every little detail—color, texture, length, cut, feel. You could have your perfect dream hairstyle at the snap of your fingers. Quality human hair wigs range in price, style, and texture. Purchasing a wig that is made specifically for you could be the one saving grace that gets you through bad hair days and makes you feel better.
Having beautiful hair is a huge self-confidence booster. Similarly, when your hair is not as shiny, full, or sexy as you’d like, your self-esteem can take a major hit.
Sometimes busyness can trick you into thinking you don’t have time to take care of your hair. However, if you take just a few minutes every day to give your hair some TLC, you can move closer to the type of hair that you want.
Vacuum Wig Part 2: The Initial Appointment and Beyond
If you’ve decided that a vacuum cap wig or hair prosthesis is something that’s right for you, it’s time to make an appointment with a hair loss professional such as Embassy Studio in Chicago, Illinois. It is important to choose a professional who has worked with vacuum wigs and is well versed in the process of making these very special wigs. After you’ve made your first appointment, anxiety may start to creep in, but take heart: the result will be amazing.
Hair and Scalp Assessment. The first part of an initial consultation will include a complete hair and scalp evaluation.
Tracing the Hairline. Following your hair loss evaluation, your consultant who in many cases may be the owner of the clinic, will use a transferrable pencil and draw the outside lines of your hairline directly onto your head. This is done in order for the professional to obtain an outline of your head for the mold.
Creating the mold. Next, a mold of your head will be created using multiple layers of plaster. The plaster dries very quickly and creates a rigid mold of your head. This mold is what will be used to create the base of the wig that you will eventually wear.
A Matter of Style. After the mold has been created, it is time to talk about the fun stuff: your hairstyle. You should come prepared with pictures of hairstyles that you would like to replicate. They may be from magazines, or from your family collection of snapshots when you were younger. Your hair replacement consultant will help you choose the color, length, density, highlights, lowlights, and wave that is right for you. Experts will explore your preferences and desires and help to create a wig that matches the style that is most flattering for your complexion and lifestyle.
Making your new wig. The manufacturing process can take anywhere from 4 to 6 months. The mold needs to go to the factory in order for a test cap to be made. The hair loss professional will test the cap on you to make sure it is a perfect fit. Your hair loss consultant may also send a small sample of hair that is to be used in the manufacturing of the hairpiece. Once the hair and the cap have been approved, the hair is then injected into the cap.
You and Your New Wig. After your custom wig has been created, your hair replacement studio will make an appointment with you to come in for fitting and cut in, making sure your look is exactly the way you want it to be. After your wig is styled just the way you want it, they will show you how to care for it and then you’re off to show the world the new you!
Purchasing a vacuum cap wig a commitment both in terms of time and resources. The end result will be absolutely amazing. All of the hassles that come with traditional hairpieces are non-existent with a vacuum wig. If chronic hair loss is something that has controlled your life, this is your time to take it back.
Additional information on wigs and other female hair loss solutions, please contact Embassy Studio in Chicago, Illinois to schedule a free hair loss evaluation and to get all your hair restoration questions answered completely and fully.
Vacuum Cap Wigs: A Custom Fit for Alopecia Totalis
Vacuum Wigs Part 1: FAQ
So what exactly is a vacuum hair prosthesis? A vacuum hair prosthesis (or wig) is created by taking a mold that is tailored specifically for the curvature and shape of head. Hair is attached to the resulting base and styled to your specifications. A vacuum wig is made of hypoallergenic materials that will wisk away sweat, which often cause itching and odor. The base of the wig secures to your head via a vacuum seal that makes it extraordinarly secure. When the wig is placed on the head with a perfect shape, it creates a vacuum seal and it won’t come off unless you intentionally break the seal and remove it. The beauty of a vacuum hairpiece is that it is not necessary to use medical adhesives or tape to secure it in place. The vacuum seal alone will hold it securely in place.
Is a Vacuum wig right for me? In order to create a vacuum wig, a trained hair loss professional will create a mold of your head. For a vacuum wig to work, it is also necessary that you be completely bald. This is an ideal solution for the person who is suffering from Alopecia Totalis or Alopecia Universalis.
If you are suffering from hair loss, but you still have some hair on your head, there are a host of other hair loss solutions available which you can explore with your hair loss consultant.
How much does it cost? A quality vacuum hair prosthesis or wig can range in price from $1,500 to $2,900. Several fittings are usually required, and when the final wig is ready, your hair replacement clinic will “cut it in,” styling it just the way you want it. The end result is fabulous. Caring for your new wig is also extremely easy. A quality human hair wig can be styled, moussed, colored, put up, taken down, everything you can do with your own natural growing hair.
Will a vacuum wig fall off? The vacuum wig, by its nature, is extremely secure. It will not fall off like many fashion wigs you might buy online or at the mall. A custom vacuum wig or hair prosthesis will not come off unless it is taken off intentionally. To remove it, simply place your fingers underneath the edge of the wig’s base in order to release the suction.
Is a vacuum wig comfortable? A quality custom made vacuum wig is extremely comfortable. May clients report that they totally forget that it is on their head. It quite literally becomes part of you. Many people with Alopecia Totalis or Alopecia Universalis opt for this type of hair loss solution since it meets their needs and allows them the lifestyle freedom they desire.
How do I care for my Vacuum Wig? Caring for a vacuum wig is similar to caring for your own naturally growing hair, since it is designed for extended wear. May clients never remove it. Simply shower and shampoo as you normally would and wash it and condition it as if it were your own growing hair.
Childhood Hair Loss
Pediatric hair loss can be devastating. Many believe that hair loss in children is not very common. However, statistics indicate that about 3% of all pediatric visits are related to childhood hair loss. The following conditions are responsible for the vast majority of pediatric hair loss: (1) tinea capitis, (2) alopecia areata, (3) trauma to the hair shaft, and (4) telogen effluvium.
The good news is that hair loss in a majority of children will resolve itself. If this is the case for your child, coping with hair loss and the regrowth period will take center stage. However, about 40% of incidences of childhood hair loss do not resolve. And if you’re a parent to a child in that 40% whose hair loss does not correct itself, coping with your child’s hair loss is only a part of the process. Seeking a medical consultation and going for a second (and sometimes third!) opinion may be necessary in order to find out what is causing your child’s hair loss.
Tinea capitis is the most common form of hair loss in children. According to Dr. Kao, Clinical Professor of Dermatopathology, Department of Dermatology, University of Maryland School of Medicine and George Washington University Medical School, tinea capitis is a disease caused by a fungal infection of the skin on the scalp, eyebrows, and eyelashes. This particular type of fungus primarily attacks hair shafts and follicles. You may also have heard tinea capitis being referred to as ringworm of the scalp.
Tinea capitis often looks like patches of red, inflamed scalp, which results in the hair becoming brittle and breaking off a few millimeters above the scalp. Children are most likely to contract this disease between the ages of three and seven. Treatment for this condition varies based on type of fungus and intensity of inflammation. Usually, medical care will include oral therapy, topical treatments, antifungal medications, shampoos, or a combination of some or all of the above.
Trauma to the hair shaft is another common cause of hair loss in children, often presenting itself in the form of traction alopecia. Trichotillomania, the compulsive habit of hair pulling, is another form of trauma that is rarely discussed and often misunderstood. Parents can help alleviate traction alopecia by monitoring the type of hair ties and styles that their child wears. Elastic bands can pull the hair and traumatize the hair shaft if the elastic tangles with the hair or pulls the hair too thightly. Additionally, tying children’s hair in extremely tight styles and leaving their hair in the same position can strain the hair follicle and damage the shaft. Consider changing your child’s style often in order to allow different parts of your child’s hair to relax and flow in its natural way.
Being a kid is challenging enough, never mind having to worry about hair loss. If you’re a parent to a child managing hair loss, it is important to remain optimistic, present a positive outlook and remind your child of his or her strengths and skills. Hair loss can be embarrassing for children. A trained hair loss professional may be able to help with a realistic hair prosthesis or wig to help you child feel as part of their peer group and to fit in at school.
Shauna Gordon has Alopecia Areata
(Hillsdale.Net) — A brave fifth-grader stood in front of the Hillsdale Preparatory School’s student body earlier this week to teach them about Alopecia Areata (AA), an autoimmune disease she’s been diagnosed with.
Shauna Gordon wears a wig to school because her hair began falling out over the summer, and she is now partially bald.
“It was shocking,” Gordon told her schoolmates. “I couldn’t believe this was happening to me.”
AA causes hair loss in patches. It is unpredictable and incurable, affecting everyone differently. Some people will be completely bald, while others will have some hair. It may grow back and stay, or grow back and fall out again. For some, it will never grow back. There is also a condition called Alopecia Universalis, which is the total loss of all body hair.
Hair Fashions for the Holidays
Do you need a new do for your holiday events this year? Want to branch out and try a new style that’s easy to pull-off and beautiful to boot? If thinning hair or balding has got you thinking that looking your best for the holidays is impossible, think again. Check out some styles below that will get you in the holiday spirit and take away some of your beauty stress.
Rock a braid. Braids are all the fashion these days, says In Style magazine. There are many versions that stray from the traditional braid that allow for a lot of versatility. Depending on the occasion, a braid can be dressy, casual, sophisticated, or sexy. It’s all in how you style your hair and the type of braid that you use. If you’re going to an evening party you might consider a braid that falls loose along your hairline. Part your hair deep on the side of your head that is most appropriate for your hair thickness. Braid a thick piece across your hairline and secure it to your head with pins on the back of your head. You can then tie the rest of your hair into a bun or ponytail. This look is chic and sexy. It also allows for some flexibility if you’re trying to draw attention away from certain areas of your head or conceal an area where your hair is thinning.
Half-Up, Half-Down. Cosmopolitan magazine suggests running mousse through your wet hair and scrunching your hair with your hands to make waves and curls. To prevent damaging your hair, refrain from using a curling iron or blow dryer. After you’ve finished scrunching your locks, take pieces of hair around your ears and move your fingers back and upwards slightly. When you have a sufficient amount of hair to make a half ponytail, tie it together with an elastic or clip. If thinning hair is something you’re managing, try to part your hair to either side. Sometimes shifting your part can conceal bald spots and/or areas where hair may be thinner. Letting down a few pieces of hair around your face is another flattering look that may also camouflage areas where your hair is less dense.
Don a beautiful Human Hair Wig. The last thing you need at the holidays is more stress and anxiety. If hair loss and thinning have left you feeling self-conscious, consider purchasing a beautiful 100% human hair wig from a reputable hair replacement studio. It is important to purchase a wig from a professional; avoid running out to the mall and grabbing any wig that looks good on the shelf, because chances are, that’s the only place it will look good.
When choosing a wig, it’s essential for a hair restoration professional to help you through the process in order for you to get the natural, beautiful look that’s perfect for you. A trained hair restoration specialist can help you explore the possible hair types, textures, and colors with you to ensure that your expectations are met. When you’ve chosen a wig, the next step is to have the wig styled. This part is easier. All you need is your imagination! Your hair replacement studio will cut your wig in for you and give you the style you’ve always wanted. Enjoy your hair. After all, hair is supposed to be fun!
Girl Raises Awareness About Trichotillomania
A 12-year-old girl has become the latest Youtube sensation after making a video about the rare obsessive compulsive disorder from which she suffers. It’s gone viral around the world, and even caught the attention of the rock stars whose song she used in her video.
Looking at photos of Chloe McCarty growing up, there doesn’t appear to be anything out of the ordinary. But as you can see in the video she posted on the internet with her web cam, she’s definitely not your average 7th grade girl any more.
Chloe struggles with something called Trichotillomania–she pulls out her hair, eyebrows, and eyelashes. By definition, Trichotillomania is compulsive hair pulling or twisting, until it breaks off. Patients are often unable to stop this behavior. It may affect as much as 4% of the population. Its causes are not clearly understood.
Human Hair Wigs Can Hold Holiday Styles
Some months ago, I was reviewing 2010′s holiday hairstyles, and it occurred to me that I should write a quick post to encourage all of you that wear a natural hair prosthesis or human hair wig or hair replacement system to be bold and wear a different style for those upcoming holiday parties this year. Because a human hair wig or hair additon can handle heat from hot curlers or flat irons, it’s easy to create a festive hairstyle for special occasions.
And to those women who whip out the Santa hats to hide their thinning hair this time of year, I’d say pick one of the holiday hairstyles you’d like to wear, research what it would take to achieve that look and treat yourself for a change!
Many women with thinning hair don’t notice how sparse their hair actually is until they see themselves in holiday or special event photos. They tend to avoid solving this problem because they may have a preconceived notion that there’s nothing that can be done or that a hair addition won’t look natural either. But the key word in “natural hair prosthesis” is “natural”!
Natural hair prosthesis are made to look so natural to the client’s individual needs, that those who are closest to the client usually won’t even realize they are wearing a hair addition!
The new year is right around the corner, so in 2011 resolve to take action against your thinning hair and let someone else wear the Santa hat next holiday season!
Grandma’s Sage Stuffing
Here’s a Thanksgiving take on my grandmother’s sage stuffing. When I was a kid, we never had enough leftovers from Thanksgiving at out grandparents house.
Ingredients
- 1/2 pound bacon strips, diced
- 1/2 cup chopped sweet onion
- 5 cups unseasoned stuffing cubes
- 1 large tart apple, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon sage
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1-1/4 to 1-3/4 cups chicken broth
Ingredients
- In a large skillet, cook bacon and onion over medium heat until bacon is crisp. Transfer to a large bowl. Add the stuffing cubes, apple, parsley, sage, salt and pepper. Stir in enough broth to reach desired moistness.
- Transfer to a greased 8-in. square baking dish. Bake, uncovered, at 350° for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown. Yield: 7 cups.
Wigs 101: Never Buy a Wig at the Mall.
For a man or women experiencing hair loss, one of the first things you think of is a wig. The second thing that strikes you is that they almost always look fake. Fashion wigs that you may purchase online or at the mall will almost always look the way you expect them to. Bad.
So where do you go from there? First it’s important to understand that there are different levels and qualities of wigs or hair additions. There are inexpensive, machine made fashion wigs that you buy at the mall. There are 100% natural human hair wigs that you absolutely cannot tell from real natural growing hair. There is processed human hair wigs, unprocessed European hair wigs, and medical grade synthetic or synthetic blend wigs. There are machine made wigs and there are “hand knotted” human hair wigs.
There’s a lot to understand, but the bottom line is that when you’re looking for a solution to hair loss or thinning hair, you want the most natural result possible.
A basic introduction to wigs and hair additions
Firstly, what is the difference between a processed human hair wig and an unprocessed or European human hair wig? Processed human hair used in wigs and hair additions has had the cuticle removed from it. So what is the cuticle? Natural growing hair has tiny protective barbs that cover the inner hair shaft. These barbs are the cuticle. Healthy cuticle should lay fairly flat in a downward direction over the hair shaft. Outwardly the hair would appear very smooth and shiny.
Most wigs use processed human hair from China. The hair is stripped of the cuticle and bleached. “Virgin” hair from Europe has not been treated this way. It is softer and lighter, with a more natural colour and depth of tone, and has much more strength than processed hair. It is simply beautiful.
When cuticle hair is used in a hair addition, it must be microscopically and painstakingly placed, one or two hairs at a time, into the base of the hair replacement system or wig in the same direction as it was cut, i.e. the barbs must be pointed down same as it came from the donor. It’s a very time-consuming process, but the end result is well worth it.
At Embassy Studio in Chicago, we have worked especially hard to make sure that our wigs and hair additions are of the very highest quality. We mean this in terms of design, manufacture, and styling. If you or someone you know is suffering from hair loss or thinning hair, man or woman, we invite you to take a look at some of the unretouched hair replacement before and after pictures we have on our website of actual clients. Then, if you wish, you may want to visit our clinic in Syracuse yourself. After all, seeing is believing.