hair hacks

With the holidays coming up, it’s time to dress up, look good and have fun. You don’t need to worry about breaking the bank with your next beauty routine, though. Here are some hair hacks and tricks you can do from home to make your hair the star of the holiday season.

Sparkling, Sweet Tresses

Have you ever thought about using honey for extra hair shine? Try mixing a cup of your regular conditioner with a few tablespoons of honey. While your hair is still wet, apply the mixture all over, and then leave it to set for about half an hour. The mixture closes your hair cuticle, causing an extraordinary shine. Make sure to wash it off well afterward.

Condition with Coconut Oil

Another way to get your hair silky soft is to apply coconut oil every day. This natural oil has miraculous properties that give your hair and skin a healthy, beautiful glow. You can condition as part of your morning hair care routine or apply at night.

Baking Soda for DIY Hair Spa

Instead of going to the salon for a Hair Spa, do your own at home. Baking soda therapy is a cheap option using a single ingredient you probably already have in your kitchen cupboard. Make a mixture of 3 tablespoons of baking soda and water and set it in your hair after the shampoo. Leave it for five minutes while you give your scalp a massage. You will definitely feel the difference!

Coffee-colored Hair

Want to dye your hair but afraid of ruining your precious strands? Use organic coffee to avoid the harsh chemicals that are normally found in store-bought hair dyes. Brew an extra strong amount of coffee, and then place it in a bowl. You can use the fine espresso grind for darker color.

After washing your hair, dip your strands into the bowl or sink, combing it gently to avoid tangles. For extra softness, you can add your regular conditioner to the coffee. Remember that the final color will vary, depending on your natural hair color.

These hair hacks can help get you through the Holidays but if you’re suffering from thinning hair or hair loss you’re probably beyond a DIY phase. At Van Scoy Hair Clinics we offer non-Surgical, non-invasive hair replacement and hair loss treatment solutions for men and women of all hair types individually customized to your specific needs, degree and type of hair loss, and lifestyle. To schedule a free consultation call us at (419) 289-6665 or to contact us via email click here.

 

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no-shave novemberNo-Shave November started as an act of remembrance. In November 2007, after a battle against colon cancer – the second leading cause of cancer death in the U.S. – Matt Hill of Chicago left behind eight devoted children who dedicated themselves to raising cancer awareness. What started as a basement-borne endeavor that collected $2,000 in 2009 has evolved into a national charity that raised one million dollars in 2014. No-Shave November makes a difference in the lives of the afflicted and their families, and you can help.

The Premise

Participants refrain from shaving in November and donate the money saved to cancer research. Donations range from the cost of a few razors to the price of a salon visit, or from a few dollars to around $100. Donations benefit American Cancer Society, Prevent Cancer Foundation, Fight Colorectal Cancer and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

How to Help

  1. Create a profile at No-Shave November. Visitors can donate through your page and you or your team will earn a slot on the site’s leaderboard to track your progress.
  1. Share your No-Shave profile on social media and embolden your friends, family and colleagues to get involved.
  1. Put down that razor and let that ‘stache grow, baby!

How to Do It With Style

Mustaches start with light beards. It’s easier to shape a mustache from a canvas of hair than shave around your desired style each day. Nurture hair growth with adequate rest, nutrition and skin care. After you get a healthy layer of stubble, choose a style.

The Gunslinger

Whether you’re a neo-Westerner who fanboys over Trejo and Tarantino, or a classicist to whom no one but Eastwood, Elliot and Wayne can do the genre justice, the gunslinger is for you.

The Basterd

Lieutenant Aldo Raine didn’t come down from the Smoky Mountains, cross 5,000 miles of water and jump out of an air-o-plane to sport a baby face – he rocked an Errol Flynn-esque pencil mustache. Brad Pitt’s role in “Inglourious Basterds” rekindled the love affair with the pencil-thin ‘stache, and you have a few styles to choose from.

The Cloon

Everybody loves George Clooney, and when he grows out his mustache a la “The Monuments Men,” the world collectively swoons. The style is called the chevron, made famous by a P.I. you may know who goes by Magnum.

Being a part of No-Shave November is a great way to give back and help fight cancer. Sadly, many lives are greatly affected and turned upside down by this relentless disease. If you or someone you know is suffering from hair loss due to medical reasons Van Scoy Hair Clinics are here to help get you through this difficult time. To schedule a free consultation call us at (419) 289-6665 or to contact us via email click here.

 

 

Photo Credit: Gwyndafh Via Pixabay

Going GrayGrowing older means growing accustomed to changes in your appearance. However, even the most self-assured people can be startled when they see their first gray hair. For some, a few strands of silver here and there are the only hair color changes until well into there 50s. Others see a significant loss of hair pigment in there 20s. Understanding the science of going gray can make the transition easier.

The Average Progression of Changes in Hair Color

While a variety of factors influence changes in your appearance as you age, race plays a major role in when the average person’s hair begins to gray. Caucasians usually see their first silver strands in their mid-30s, while Asians usually don’t begin the transition until their late 30s. African-Americans keep their original hair color longest, with gray hair holding off until their mid-40s. By the age of 50, roughly half the members of all races have significantly grayed.

The Power of Genetics in Hair Pigmentation

The relationship between genetics and hair color has been established for decades, but it wasn’t until March of 2016 that researchers published some amazing new findings. They have isolated the specific genes responsible for the shape, color and distribution of your hair. This proves conclusively that the timing of your gray hairs is strongly predetermined by your genetic heritage.

Locating the specific genes responsible for when and how your hair loses pigment could have important implications, as it may soon be possible to develop therapies that slow the process down. In the meantime, look to your parents’ and grandparents’ experiences to get an idea of what you can expect.

The Impact of Your Health and Lifestyle on Hair Color

Though many people insist that stress causes hair to turn gray, scientists have not yet proved this. However, there are health-related issues that contribute to premature loss of hair pigment. For example, low levels of vitamin B-12, thyroid problems, or pituitary gland disorders have been linked with early grays. Fortunately, when these health conditions are corrected, hair pigment usually returns. Smoking and other substance abuse contribute to early grays in addition to giving skin an aged appearance. Those who wish to look younger longer are wise to avoid these lifestyle choices.

If your changing hair color has caught you by surprise, don’t worry. Whether to embrace the new look or dye it into submission is a decision you can make over and over again, as new hair growth offers you endless opportunities for imaginative colors and styles.

Your hair going gray can be alarming but if you’re experiencing hair loss it can be devastating. At Van Scoy Hair Clinics we understand what you’re going through and we will find the hair loss solution that’s right for you. To schedule a free consultation call us at (419) 289-6665 or to contact us via email click here.

 

Photo Credit: Ray Dumas Via Flickr Creative Commons

Sources:

http://www.nature.com/ncomms/2016/160301/ncomms10815/full/ncomms10815.html

http://www.webmd.com/beauty/hair-nails/abcs-premature-graying?__hstc=23243621.6cbd93eb3f705410c835dc197205db73.1468140840899.1471380887205.1471393813553.72&__hssc=23243621.434.1471393813553&__hsfp=1838948086

 

FrizzDuring summertime, the combination of high temperatures and humidity can give you frizzy hair. Aside from managing your locks with hairstyles like braids, ponytails and chignons, you can attack the root cause of the problem: dryness. This can be alleviated with moisturizing agents that can be found in your refrigerator or kitchen cabinets. You can also reduce the loss of your mane’s natural oils with certain hair care practices.

 

  1. Olive Oil Deep Conditioner

Extra virgin olive oil makes a highly emollient and penetrating conditioner. Dilute the oil with water and then apply it to your hair. Cover with a shower cap and leave on for the desired time, which can range from 20 minutes to all night. Shampoo your hair, being careful not to fall in the tub or shower stall made slick with the oil.

  1. Coconut Milk Treatment

Plentiful in healthy fat, coconut milk makes a treatment that produces a smooth, shiny mane. Heat two tablespoons and apply it to your hair. Cover your head with a towel or shower cap and leave the milk in overnight. Wash it out in the morning.

  1. Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse

The acid in apple cider vinegar has properties that calm frizzy hair. After shampooing, give your hair a final rinse with a solution of the vinegar mixed with equal amounts of water. This can be done every two to four weeks.

  1. Avocado Mask

Extraordinarily hydrating, avocados are rich in vitamin E and fatty acids, both of which help control hair made unruly by humidity. Make a mask by mashing a ripe avocado and mixing it with a little olive oil. Apply it to freshly shampooed hair, and leave it in for 30 minutes to an hour before rinsing.

  1. Cold Water Wash

Hot water strips away the sebum that acts as your hair’s natural moisturizer. Cold water retains the sebum as well as closes the cuticles, a benefit that seals in moisture. Shower with water that is lukewarm rather than hot, and give your hair a final rinse with cold water.

  1. Protective Hair Care

Instead of using a blow dryer, let your hair air-dry whenever possible. Distribute the sebum through your hair shaft using a boar bristle brush, stroking from the roots to the tips. In addition, wash your hair after swimming in chlorinated pool water.

Try some of these natural remedies for frizzy hair. You may be surprised at how well they can tame your wild tresses in the summertime.

These are great tips for battling frizz but suffering from thinning hair or hair loss may be a bigger issue for you. At Van Soy Hair Clinics we will find the hair loss solution that’s right for you. To schedule a free consultation call us at (419) 289-6665 or to contact us via email click here.

 

Photo Credit: donniesays Via Flickr Creative Commons

scarvesSummer can be hard on natural hair. Regular swimming can dry out strands and cause breakage, while UV rays can bleach dark locks. Plus, going from air-conditioned buildings out into the hot sun can also stress your hair. While protective styles can help your hair avoid damage during the summer months, scarves are unique hair accessories that allow you to create physical barriers between your strands and common hair hazards. Below are several ways to incorporate scarves into your summer hair care routine.

Protect Hair From Hat Damage

Hats will protect your hair and face from punishing UV rays, but they can also leach moisture from your hair and cause breakage. Therefore, if you want to wear cute hats this summer, consider using a beautiful scarf to cover your hair completely underneath the hat. A thin silk cap is the perfect barrier between a beautiful sun hat and your delicate strands. Use a solid-colored cap to let your hat take center stage, or use a brightly patterned scarf to add a hint of color to an otherwise simple outfit.

Condition Your Hair All Day Long

Summer moisture loss, which causes split ends and frizzy hair, can also lead to hair breakage. Even if you’re using a daily conditioner, you may need to soak your strands in a heavy hair mask to protect against further deterioration. Rather than waiting for some time at home to pamper your hair, sneak in a deep conditioning treatment by coating your hair with your favorite product and wearing a scarf over it.

Prevent UV Color Damage

Both natural and color-treated hair is subject to bleaching and brassiness caused by repeated exposure to the sun. A UV-protective serum will act as a sunscreen for your hair, but this category of products does have its limitations. If you’re planning on spending some quality time near the pool or on the beach, try adding a head wrap to cover all of your strands and boost the SPF your hair receives.

Update Your Normal Protective Hairstyle

You’ve found the Holy Grail of low-manipulation summer hairstyles, but you’re reluctant to commit to that style all summer long. Instead of trying out new hair trends, try adding different scarves to your ‘do to update your day-to-day fashion looks. Leopard, camouflage and bohemian prints are all hot for 2016. Also, don’t stick to the usual scarves-as-headbands style. Under scarves, scarf pompadours and turban wraps are some other fun styles to try.

Beautiful scarves are a timeless accessory to help you battle moisture loss and fading. Before your strands wilt in the summer heat, grab a few scarves and experiment with some new hairstyles.

Using a scarf to protect your hair from sun damage is smart, but if you’re using a scarf to cover up hair loss it’s time to do something about it. At Van Scoy Hair Clinics our hair restoration specialists can answer all of your hair loss questions and help you find the solution that’s right for you. To schedule a free consultation call us at (419) 289-6665 or to contact us via email click here.

 

 

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CharlizeCelebrities such as Khloe Kardashian and Rita Ora have debuted mid-length hairstyles that are sure to wow people this summer. Whether you plan to spend your vacation at the beach or in exotic cities, looking to these women for guidance gets your summer started in style.

  1. Khloe Kardashian

Khloe Kardashian bade sayonara to her longer locks and said hello to a vibrant, lively cut that took a few inches off her hair length. Her hair lightly touches her shoulders, and thanks to the master layering technique, her new locks have plenty of movement and volume. Customize this look to match your preferences; for example, if you want hair that is straight or more windswept, you can get it.

  1. Rita Ora

At the Glamour Music Beauty Festival, Rita Ora debuted a stunning new hairstyle that curls and softens her locks. Luckily, her stylist described exactly what he did, so you can get yours to duplicate the effort. In segments, braid your hair and use irons to get the texture to stay. While this hairstyle might not last more than a few days, it’s a cool way to experiment.

  1. Charlize Theron

This hairstyle is similar to Khloe Kardashian’s, but Charlize Theron’s is a bit shorter and the part is in the middle (Khloe’s hair is parted to one side). Blond highlights with dark roots look terrific when you strut around with this hairstyle, and no matter how “messy” you make it, you look perfect for the beach and for cities all around the world.

  1. Julianne Hough

If you want to take the messy look to a new level, try Julianne Hough’s shaggy ‘do. This look, parted in the middle, is especially effective if you want to make your face look longer or, for example, if you want to counteract some roundness in your face. And with a shaggy hairdo, you can wear your tresses with highlights, down, half up, in a ponytail and so much more.

Bonus Tip: Glitter Is In!

Glitter is everywhere these days. Even guys are getting on in the fun, using glitter to cover their beards. Sprinkle it in your hair and even on your eyebrows and lips. No matter your hairstyle, glitter rocks.

You too can sport any of these hairstyles this summer. Even if you’re suffering from thinning hair or hair loss, Van Scoy Hair Studios has the best hair restoration specialists on staff that will help you get the look you want. To schedule a free consultation call us at (419) 289-6665 or to contact us via email click here.

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History HairNo matter what style it’s been through the ages, hair remains our crowning glory. Let’s look at how hair trends have changed throughout the eras and decades of history.

Ancient Egypt

Men and women wore shoulder-length hair and wigs. Young boys shaved their heads except for a single “lock of youth.” Young girls’ hair was often braided.

Ancient Greece

Greek women loved using headbands and flowers for hair accessories. Men had shorter hairstyles. Those who were not soldiers often wore beards.

Ancient Rome

Romans used wigs and false hairpieces. The richer, the more elaborate, with pearls and jewels pinned on. Men preferred a clean-shaven face.

The Far East and Africa

Buns Buddha-style was the custom. Young Thai and Burmese boys wore high buns, while Chinese women kept their hair long. Chinese men would braid their locks. In Japan, women grew out their hair. They would pin it up in buns, using flowers, hand-painted combs and hair-stick. Tribal warrior men colored and braided their hair. Often, married women shaved their heads.

Native Americans

Mohawks were made with both fake and real hair, and they believed that more hair meant more wisdom and power.

Western World in the Middle Ages

In the 13th and 14th centuries, women wore simple long hair in waves, braided or in chignons. Veils and hats were fashionable.

Renaissance

In Western Europe, women began dyeing their hair blonde, as this began to be considered beautiful.

Elizabethan Era, 1500s to 1600s

Pale skin and red hair followed the queen’s fashion. Rouge makeup was trendy, as was white facial powder.

18th Century

Wigs were everywhere. Both men and women wore high coiffures. Feathers, jewels and extravaganza adorned.

Victorian Era 1800s to 1900s

Toning down the hair and makeup, more focus was on hygiene. Both men and women sported sleek, oiled hairstyles.

1920s

The popular bob took over, and film stars sparked a fashion trends for heavy eyeliner.

1940s

Slick, shiny waves were all the rage. Bette Davis and Rita Hayworth popularized side-parted hair.

1950s

Women wearing perfect curls greeted their lovers coming home from the war. Hair spray was applied heavily.

1960s

Practicality ruled. Independent, career-focused women went for either the short bob or long straight hair. In the late 60s, hippie hairstyles went untamed and wild.

1970s

Farrah Fawcett’s “wingback” hair was everywhere. Later, spiked punk hairstyles began.

1980s

Neon colors maximized the big hair effect. Women wore their hair shorter, and hairspray still dominated.

1990s

Everyone wanted the “Rachel” shag hair cut from the TV sitcom “Friends,” with layers to frame the face.

2000s

People still take their hair-styling cues from fashion icons. But today, we are freer to think independently and style our hair how we please.

Unfortunately, hair loss has also been an issue throughout all of the eras since the beginning of time. At Van Scoy Hair Clinics hair restoration is our passion. If you’re suffering from thinning hair or hair loss call us today to schedule a free consultation at (419) 289-6665 or to contact us via email click here.

Photo Credit: Special Collections Toronto Public Library Via Flickr Creative Commons

 

Many people facing hair loss are well informed on the ins and outs of their specific condition. They might have heard that at least half of all men will have experience some degree of hair loss by the age of 50, or that 40 percent of hair loss victims are women, or even that the leading cause of hair loss is hereditary patterns. Although those are all true statements, there are some fictitious statements that get passed around which help the hair loss industry along. The real trouble is trying to decipher between fact and fiction.

Is it really your mom’s side of the family to blame for your hair loss? Can wearing a baseball hat actually make you go bald? The following are a few of the most common myths about hair loss, fact or fiction:

Hair Loss comes from the mother’s side

Fiction! Contrary to what people say, it is not your mom’s side to blame for your hair loss. Although male pattern baldness is hereditary, it has been proven that the condition could just as easily come from the father’s side as well. Since this condition is genetic, it cannot be prevented, but it can be treated.

Baseball Caps Cause Baldness

This one is actually fiction to. Health experts have not found any sort of specific link between hair loss and wearing a cap. Only hats that are tight enough to cut off circulation to the follicles would cause hair loss.

Poor Treatment of Hair, Causes Hair Loss

Fact! Using too much styling product like dyes and perms can cause hair loss. It is also stated that tight buns and braids can cause hair loss through follicle damage, so be sure to avoid those as much as possible. Even women that are trying to bleach their hair with natural sunlight should be sure to put a hat on because overexposure to the sun’s UV rays have shown to cause hair loss as well.

Hair Loss from Stress

This is a fact, but not in every aspect. Scientists have found that extreme emotional or medical related trauma can cause sudden hair loss. However, it is noted that stress stemming from every day stress of work and family life will not cause hair loss.

Hair Loss Only Occurs When You’re Old

This is fiction. Just like some of the examples given above, male pattern baldness among other conditions can occur as early as the teen years, or the early 20’s for women. For these cases, VanScoy hair loss specialists can work to help rule out a typical causes such as hormonal issues.

Let us help

Everyone is different when it comes to the reasons for hair loss. We understand that your needs are different than other, which is why we off many different hair replacement options. Visit us today for a free consultation.

 

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Red hair is rareRed hair is rare and the unspoken battle between hair colors has been going on for ages. Brunettes shudder at the idea of blondes having the most fun, and redheads are sick of the stigma tied to their hair color, along with nicknames. Today we end the war of the shades and tell you that, indeed, redheads are rare and do have more fun.

The Science Behind How Red Hair Is Rare

For all you redheads out there, know that you truly are one of a kind. Less than 2 percent of the world’s population is born a redhead, and it’s very difficult to be blessed with those beautiful ruby locks. For someone to be born with red hair, both parents must carry the recessive mutated MC1R gene, which is located on chromosome number 16. Even more rare is a blue-eyed redhead; this combination is found in less than 1 percent of the world’s population. Any blue-eyed, red-haired anomalies out there? Thank your parents!

The Posers

Since having red hair is so rare, many people will do whatever it takes to appear as if they were born with the color; on the downside, dying your hair red is extremely high maintenance, and it can be expensive. The color fades quickly, but for many people it is worth the time and effort. If you don’t want to make that big of a commitment, you can change to a strawberry blonde or burnt brown color. Neither are classically red, but hints and hues of the color can be almost as good as the real thing! A redhead can light up a room and is sure to have heads turning at the sight of such a rare and magnificent mane.

The Real Deal

Want proof that redheads do in fact have more fun? Just take a look at some of the most famous natural reds. Lindsay Lohan, Nicole Kidman and Isla Fisher are just a few celebrities who rock the red. Throughout almost the entirety of their careers, these women have kept their red hair and represented redheads throughout the globe proudly. Not only are they beautiful, but they definitely have a lot of fun (maybe Lindsay Lohan a bit too much).

The moral of the story is that regardless of your hair color, it is all about the attitude. Redheads spend their lives standing out so they may have a head start, but be yourself and your true colors will shine.

Hair Loss Does Not Have To Prevent You From Having Red Hair

If you or someone you know is experiencing hair loss and want to have the ability to style, color, and have the look they use to have back, then we invite you and them to a free visit! Contact us today for a free consultation by clicking here!

Photo Credit: Brooke Duckart Flickr Creative Commons

Diet-Related Hair Loss

Could your diet be causing your hair loss? Following a restrictive diet can cause your hair to thin or even fall out. If you need to stick to a diet for medical or lifestyle reasons, use these tips to make sure you get all the nutrients you need to keep your hair healthy.

Weight Loss and Hair Loss

Shedding pounds to reach a healthy weight can reduce your risk of many long-term health conditions, but in the short-term a very low-calorie diet can have negative effects on hair health. According to dermatologists, hair loss is common after a weight loss of 15 or more pounds, but growth usually returns once the weight stabilizes.

Protein for Hair Health

Hair is made from protein, so not getting enough protein reduces your body’s ability to produce hair. This causes a disproportionately large number of hairs to go into the resting phase of hair growth, which lasts around three months, before falling out. If you notice that you are shedding more hairs than usual, check that you are getting enough protein in your diet. Adults need to eat two or three servings of protein-rich foods every day, such as lean meat, fish, beans, eggs or peanut butter.

Iron and Hair Loss

Hair loss can be a symptom of iron deficiency, which your doctor can quickly diagnose using a blood test. Vegetarians are most likely to suffer from iron deficiency, as iron in plants is not as easily absorbed by the body as iron in meat. If you are vegetarian, consider eating cereals that have been fortified with iron to increase your intake. Soybeans, pumpkin seeds, lentils and spinach are also good sources of iron.

Vitamin D for Hair Health

Many people don’t get enough vitamin D. The body can produce vitamin D when the skin is exposed to sunlight, but excessive sun exposure can increase the risk of skin cancer. Other sources of vitamin D include fortified cereals and milk. Vitamin D plays a vital role in the body’s cycle of hair production.

If you’re worried about hair loss, see your doctor for advice. Many vitamin deficiencies can be quickly diagnosed with a blood test. Once you know which nutrients you lack, you can change your diet or take supplements to support the health of your hair.

For any questions you may have or to speak to a hair loss expert, Contact Us or visit our website for more information!