Hair Loss Awareness Month - August

It is important to understand the underlying reason for your hair loss to build a plan to slow, halt or even reverse hair loss and set expectations for success.

How Moms Can Beat Postpartum Hair Loss with the Right Hair Care Routine

The hormonal changes during pregnancy and postpartum can cause hair to fall out at a faster rate than usual. But don't worry, there are ways to combat postpartum hair loss and restore your hair volume. 

The Evolution of Women's Hairstyles

Women's hairstyles have undergone a dramatic transformation throughout history, serving as a reflection of the societal, cultural, and political landscapes of each era. Let's delve deeper into the history of women's hairstyles, exploring the intricate details and iconic styles of each time period. Ancient Civilizations (3000 BCE – 500 CE)Egypt (3100 BCE – 30 BCE): Women in ancient Egypt often kept their hair short or shaved their heads to stay cool in the hot climate. They adorned themselves with elaborate wigs for special occasions, with wealthier women opting for wigs made of human hair. Hair accessories made from gold, beads, and gemstones signified social status. Greece (800 BCE – 500 CE): Grecian women favored long, flowing hair, styled in intricate updos featuring braids and curls. They used a variety of hairpins and wore headbands known as "diadems," which were often made from precious metals.Rome (509 BCE – 476 CE): Roman women embraced a variety of hairstyles throughout the empire’s existence, with wealthier women opting for elaborate styles featuring curls and braids, held in place with ivory pins and decorated with ribbons. Medieval Times (500 – 1500)Early Medieval (500 – 1000): Simplicity defined early medieval hairstyles. Women kept their hair long and often wore it in braids. Head coverings were prevalent, with wimples and veils being popular choices.High & Late Medieval (1000 – 1500): As we move into the later medieval period, hairstyles became more intricate, with women wearing their hair in elaborate braids and buns, often covered with elaborate headdresses such as the hennin. Renaissance (14th – 17th Centuries)Italian Renaissance (14th – 16th Centuries): Women in the Italian Renaissance wore their hair in long, flowing locks, with braids wrapped around their heads. Pearls and gemstones were woven into the hair for added luxury. Elizabethan Era (1558 – 1603): The latter part of the Renaissance in England saw women emulating Queen Elizabeth I’s iconic red hair. They wore their hair in high, elaborate styles, adorned with pearls and lace. 17th to 19th CenturiesBaroque Period (1600 – 1750): Women’s hairstyles reached new heights during the Baroque period, with elaborate curls and waves piled high on the head, often powdered to achieve a pale hue.Victorian Era (1837 – 1901): The Victorian era saw a return to more demure hairstyles, with women wearing their hair up in buns and braids. However, evening styles could be more elaborate, with cascading curls and intricate updos. 20th Century1920s: The Roaring Twenties introduced radical change with the bob, a short and sleek hairstyle that embodied women’s newfound independence.1940s & 50s: Post-WWII, hairstyles took on a glamorous tone, with waves, pin curls, and victory rolls. The 1950s introduced the beehive, a towering hairstyle that required plenty of hairspray.1960s to 80s: These decades were marked by diversity, from the long, straight hair and afros of the 60s and 70s to the punk-inspired mohawks and mullets of the 80s. 21st Century & Current Trends2000s: The turn of the millennium saw the popularity of sleek, straightened hair and highlights. Variations of the bob made a comeback, with asymmetrical styles gaining popularity.2010s: The rise of social media influencers introduced a variety of hairstyles to the mainstream, with beach waves, braided updos, balayage, and natural hair movements taking center stage. Contemporary Trends: A Fusion of Styles In today's world, women's hairstyles are as diverse and eclectic as ever. From natural textures to bold colors, contemporary trends are a fusion of influences that celebrate individuality and creativity. Natural Texture: Many women now embrace their natural hair textures, whether it's the luscious curls, waves, or coils they were born with. This trend celebrates authenticity, encouraging women to embrace their unique beauty and reject the notion of a one-size-fits-all ideal. Short Hair: Short haircuts, such as pixie cuts and variations of the bob, remain popular for their chic and low-maintenance appeal. These styles convey confidence and modernity, allowing women to express themselves with flair and ease. Pastel Colors: Creative coloring has taken center stage in recent years, with pastel shades and unconventional hues gaining popularity. Women are using their hair as a canvas for self-expression, opting for colors that reflect their personalities and moods. Sustainable Styles: In an era of increased environmental consciousness, sustainable hairstyles like dreadlocks and braids have gained traction. These styles require fewer chemicals and less frequent hair treatments, aligning with the eco-conscious values of many individuals. The current decade continues to celebrate individuality and authenticity, with a renewed appreciation for natural hair textures. The shag haircut and pixie cut remain popular, while adventurous hair colors, including pastels and vibrant hues, are increasingly embraced.The Journey ContinuesFrom the intricate wigs of ancient Egypt to the bold styles of today, women have used their hair to express identity, social status, and individuality. Women's hairstyles have traversed centuries, cultures, and fashion paradigms, evolving to reflect changing societal norms and individual preferences. From the artistic achievements of ancient civilizations to the rebellious spirit of the 20th century and the diverse trends of today, women's hairstyles have remained a powerful form of self-expression and identity. In this ever-evolving realm of beauty and creativity, women have the freedom to choose from a wide array of styles that cater to their unique personalities, celebrating the enduring and dynamic nature of women's hair fashion. As we look forward to future trends, one thing is certain—the world of women’s hairstyles will continue to evolve and inspire!

Tips for Taming Winter Hair

Dry hair often leads to brittle hair, which can cause hair breakage along with static buildup leading to frizz and flyaways.

Uncovering the Secrets to Healthy Hair

Have you ever wondered why sometimes your hair feels like it’s growing like a weed, and other times it seems stuck in a standstill? Or perhaps why that friend who swears by their vitamin routine has locks that look straight out of a shampoo commercial? Let’s dive into the fascinating world of hair growth and uncover the secrets behind those luscious locks backed by some good ol' science.The Hair Growth Cycle DemystifiedFirst things first our hair isn’t always in the “growing” mode. It takes breaks too! Every strand on your head is on its unique growth journey, passing through distinct phases:1Anagen Phase (Growth Galore): Imagine this as the “all-out” phase. This is when your hair is all about growth. Cells are bustling, dividing rapidly, and adding length to your hair. Typically, hair grows about half an inch every month during this phase, and this can go on for a whopping 2 to 7 years!2Catagen Phase (The Cool-Down): After the growth frenzy, hair takes a brief 10-day respite. It's like your hair's mini-retreat, where it shrinks and slows things down.3Telogen Phase (The Relaxing Retreat): The hair is in full zen mode for about three months. It’s during the tail end of this phase that some hair decides it’s time to leave the scalp and make room for fresh new hair.4.Nourishing the Mane: Vitamins, Minerals, and ProteinEver heard the saying, “You are what you eat”? Well, your hair kind of abides by that rule too. Our hair is a testament to our dietary choices.Protein: Hair is predominantly keratin, a protein. Think of protein as the building blocks for your hair. A protein-rich diet ensures that the hair has the necessary building blocks to grow strong and resilient.5 Without enough protein in your diet, your hair can become weak, brittle, and even start shedding more than usual.Vitamins: B-vitamins, especially biotin, are hair's MVPs. They play a pivotal role in red blood cell formation, which transport oxygen and nutrients to the scalp and follicles.6 It’s like giving your hair a direct nutrient boost! Vitamins D and E also chip in, supporting healthy follicles and imparting a natural shine.7Minerals: Minerals play a vital role in hair growth and strength. Iron, zinc, and selenium are crucial for hair vitality.8 Iron, for instance, aids red blood cells in ferrying oxygen to hair follicles. An iron-deficient diet might leave your hair gasping for breath, leading to increased hair fall.9External Factors: Stress and StylingChronic stress is a notorious hair growth saboteur. It can send many hairs prematurely into the telogen phase, resulting in noticeable shedding.10 And for all the style enthusiasts, while heat tools and chemical treatments can give you a fab look, over time they can weaken and damage your hair. So, moderation is key, bacuse excessive use can compromise hair health.11Key Takeaways: While genes dictate some aspects of our hair health, our lifestyle choices, from diet to stress management, wield significant influence. The road to radiant hair is paved with balanced nutrition, mindful styling, and overall well-being. Remember, your hair is a reflection of your overall health, so take good care of it!References:Footnotes1American Academy of Dermatology Association - Hair Loss: Tips for Managing 2Harvard Health - Treating Female Pattern Hair Loss 3Rushton, D. H. (2002). Nutritional factors and hair loss. Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, 27(5), 396-404. 4Cleveland Clinic - Hair Structure and Hair Life Cycle 5Guo, E. L., & Katta, R. (2017). Diet and hair loss: effects of nutrient deficiency and supplement use. Dermatology Practical & Conceptual, 7(1), 1. 6Trüeb, R. M. (2019). The impact of oxidative stress on hair. International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 41(5), 455-464. 7Oregon State University, Linus Pauling Institute - Micronutrient Information Center 8National Institutes of Health - Dietary Supplement Fact Sheets 9Trost, L. B., Bergfeld, W. F., & Calogeras, E. (2006). The diagnosis and treatment of iron deficiency and its potential relationship to hair loss. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 54(5), 824-844. 10Bergfeld, W. F. (2017). The biology of hair. Dermatologic Clinics, 35(1), 1-11. 11American Academy of Dermatology Association - Hair Styling Without Damage

Unlock the Secrets to Thicker, Longer Lashes Naturally

Long, thick eyelashes are coveted by beauty enthusiasts across the globe. They frame the eyes, enhance expression, and add a touch of glamour to any look. But not everyone is blessed with naturally voluminous lashes. Fear not, for achieving luscious lashes isn't solely the domain of makeup artists and beauty professionals. Here are some expert tips to help you naturally enhance the length and thickness of your eyelashes.1. Nutritional FoundationLike the hair on your head, your eyelashes need the proper nutrients to grow thick and strong. Incorporate a balanced diet rich in protein, biotin, vitamins A, C, and E, and omega-3 fatty acids. Foods like fish, eggs, beans, and greens can be lash lifesavers.2. Gentle GroomingBe gentle with your lashes. Avoid rubbing your eyes harshly and be soft when applying or removing makeup. Always use a non-irritating makeup remover and ensure you clean your eyelashes thoroughly but gently every night.3. Moisturize and ConditionJust as you condition the hair on your scalp, your eyelashes also benefit from hydration. Natural oils like castor oil, coconut oil, and vitamin E oil can be applied to the lashes before bedtime to nourish and strengthen them.4. Limit False Lashes and Heavy MascaraWhile it might be tempting to use false lashes or heavy mascara to give your lashes a boost, frequent use can lead to damage and loss. (Learn how) Instead, opt for lighter mascaras and give your lashes a break from falsies to prevent breakage and fallout.5. Lash SerumsConsider investing in a quality lash serum that supports growth. Look for products with peptides, biotin, or natural growth-promoting ingredients. Products like our own Actsyl-L Lash Growth Express incorporate all the necessary ingredients plus innovative and proven peptides without harmful side effects. Apply as directed, usually once a day, to stimulate growth at the follicles.6. Eyelash MassageBelieve it or not, gently massaging the eyelid area and lash line can improve blood flow, which helps nutrients reach the hair follicles more efficiently. Use clean fingers and a light touch to avoid damaging the lashes.7. Avoid Waterproof MascaraWaterproof mascaras can lead to lash breakage due to the harsher removal process required. Choose a gentle, washable mascara instead, and make sure to remove it carefully every day.8. Be Patient and ConsistentEyelashes, like scalp hair, take time to grow. Be patient and consistent with your care routine. Most people will notice a change in their lashes after several weeks of consistent care.9. Consult a ProfessionalIf you're concerned about your lash health or are considering supplements or treatments, it's always best to consult with a dermatologist or a licensed aesthetician who can provide personalized advice.In ConclusionAchieving thicker, longer eyelashes is a blend of science and tender loving care. By nurturing your lashes from the inside out and treating them with the gentle respect they deserve, you can enhance their natural beauty. Remember, the key to gorgeous lashes is as much in the care as it is in the curl!