Hair Trends: Backstage at LA Fashion Week with GHD

Sneak backstage at LA Fashion Week at Nicholai by Nicky Hilton and listen to Andy Bodin from ghd Hair talk about the hottest hairstyles. Think equestrian-inspired, modern hair with tons of texture, all created with ghd flat irons of course!

How to Fake Eva Longoria’s Bob

Eva LongoriaEva Longoria’s short curly bob is so super cute and trendy, almost everyone wishes they could do this ‘do!

But what if you have longer hair?

Good news! You’re not out of luck, you can fake it!

Hairstylist extraordinaire Johnny Lavoy to the rescue (again!) with his super savvy styling tricks on how to recreate her fabulous bob hairstyle sans scissors.

Bonus: It’s easier than we thought, and the results are stunning! You really should give this one a try the next time you want to glam it up a little.

-CurlyBelle

Curling Iron Techniques: Tight Curls

Brush up on your curling iron techniques with this short video that promise to have those curls coiled in no time!

For spirals ala “Beyonce” in the video, try a 1/2″ curling iron – the smaller the barrel width, the tighter the curls!

-CurlyBelle

Hairstyle How To: Volumizing Straight Strands

Sure you’re in love with your flat iron, we know, we know, but are your strands silky straight and FLAT? Tresemme Style Expert Nathaniel Hawkins shows Celeb TV (and us!) how to add volume to a sleek, straight style ala Jennifer Aniston and Ali Larter. All of your favorite products are right in your drugstore, and he mentions my favorite body building move – the upside-down blowdry!

-CurlyBelle

Natural Henna How To

If you have hair that is relaxed, permed, damaged or fragile you might be wary of getting chemical coloring. Enter henna. This natural colorant is plant derived and a more gentle alternative to the harsh chemicals and peroxide in most hair color dyes. A quick consultation with your stylist will help you select the right color based on your natural hair – results will vary from person to person. Also ask for a quick patch test to make sure it is 100% natural henna and that you do not have any allergies before undergoing the coloring. 

Henna is long-lasting permanent color, but it will still will wash out and lighten over time due to blow drying, sunlight and other factors. This comprehensive video is a great way to learn about the henna application process. You’ll be interested to see the use of olive oil for hydration and shine, and eggs for protein and strength!

Celeb Style: Headbands in Hollywood

Headbands are hotter than ever in Hollywood. This slide show features some super stylish celebs sporting their headband hairdos. Everyone including Eva Longoria, Hayden Panettiere, Gwen Stefani, Lauren Conrad, Paris Hilton, Alicia Silverstone, Hilary Duff (and others!) are happily riding the headband trend and there’s no end in sight! What did we ever do without them?

-CurlyBelle

What is Paraben Free Hair Care?

You should consider paraben free hair care products for a few reasons. Researchers in England have recently discovered paraben in breast tumors. Research has shown that parabens act like estrogen in the female body. Since breast cancer responds to estrogen, the research makes sense.

There are several types of paraben: Methylparaben, Isobutylparaben, Benzylparaben, Ethylparaben, Propylparaben, Butylparaben. They are often used as preservatives in hair care and cosmetic products. When you start reading the labels, you will be amazed at how many products contain one or more parabens. If you want paraben free hair care products, you will have to get good at reading the labels on all the products you purchase.

Once you have identified which products are paraben free, you can begin to experiment to find your favorites.  There has been a huge increase in people interested in organic and natural beauty products. Several major companies are releasing paraben free hair, skin and cosmetic products. Many reputable studies have demonstrated the negative effect of paraben and other chemicals in our bodies.

The CDC has found evidence of over 100 toxic chemicals in the blood and urine of people from all cultures and ethnic groups. As people become better educated about the potential dangers, they go looking for safer alternatives.   

-Janice Johnson, founder of the Curly Hair Salon and editor of the Curly Hair Guide 

P.S. If you’re looking for Paraben Free Hair care, StyleBell’s top five picks are: Jason Naturals, Kiss My Face, Aubrey Organics, Aveda and Yes to Carrots – available nationwide in drugstores and salons.