What I learned at 23...

Believe it or not at 23 I finally learned how to do my hair.

Kidding. ...Sorta.

So, I haven't gotten my hairs did in about 10 weeks. Shoot me. Luckily I got squeezed in before my August 1st appt which would have made it like 14 weeks. AH! Anyways, while I was there I got an awesome hair cut, color, and shape up + my hairstylist taught me a little bit about what to do and what to use, so I thought I would share my finds!

Here is a before picture...

It had been so long since I had got my hair done and unfortunately wasn't going to be able to make it in I box died my hair like an dummy. It cost $12 and faded in four days. So that is why my hair is 4 different colors in this picture. Talk about classy!

Anyways, so this is what I learned, the products I use, and the steps in order that I do everything.

1. Shampoo & Conditioner: When getting your hair colored it's important to use a good shampoo + conditioner that does not have the word sulfate in the ingredients. I have had many products that read on the front 'safe for color treated hair!' 

LIAR! Everyone of them have sulfate in them, so you gotta watch it. On Saturday I found John Frieda Full Repair and it has ZERO sulfate!  I've been using it since Saturday and this stuff is 1 affordable and 2 awesome!

2. Leave-In Conditioner: The best leave-in I have been able to find it the It's a 10 Miracle Leave-In. But THEN I found it that has, 'Plus Keratin'.
Ker-a-tin-A tough, insoluble protein substance that is the chief structural constituent of hair, nails, horns, and hooves. {aka: what makes your hair strong.} This stuff is amazing and really light weight! I use about 5 squirts a day, put it in my palms, and run it through my hair and I make sure to get the ends really good.


3. Blow Out Cream: I love John Frieda {obviously} and this smoothing cream is great! The purpose of blow out cream is to keep your hair from being so frizzy and unmanageable after blow drying has taken affect. Before I started using this stuff, after I would blow dry my hair it looked like a bomb went off. But when I use the smoothing cream my hair is LESS frizzy and well, less blown up looking!


4. Root Lifter: Root lifter is important if you are wanting volume on the top of your head. I'm not really big into teasing, because I've never had to. My hair is so course and thick-I don't need it! On special occasions when I'm trying to look, how do you say-super fly? yes... I tease. I started using this root lifter and it's awesome! I put it on the part of my hair where I would normally tease and it gives me mega volume!

5. Hair Dryer: {not my hair dryer} My hair dryer is old school. So, I'm hoping to get a new one for my birthday {hint-hint ;)}! But the thing {what is that thing called, anyways?} on the end is something I don't have and want! Instead of the air blowing everywhere it stays in that single line. Genius! 

6. Round Brush: I never believed in these things, but wow. They do some awesome work! A round brush is a great way to add volume too. For now I have the size above, but my next purchase is going to be a bigger one for more volume + easier & faster.

7.  Heat Protectant: This step is very important. If you have ever skipped this step, don't! You spray the heat protectant spray on your hair right before you straighten. It's helps... protect your hair from the straightener, helps to block humidity & rehydrates.

8.  Straighten: A good straightener is important. Especially if you use it on a daily basis. I've been through many straighteners {Chi's & Paul Mitchell's}and I am currently on my fave! Babyliss Pro Nano Titanium. It's awesome and doesn't pull my hair. Yeah it's $130, but when it lasts for a year + & you use it everyday-not a big deal if ya ask me!

9. Final Step: Biosilk. My mom has been using this stuff since the 70's. Just kidding! But maybe? This stuff is incredible! You put a tiny amount in your palm, rub it in your hands, and then apply to hair. It's tames those pain in the butt frizzies and makes your hair smooth, silky, and shiny! 

So when I got my hair done I got some new colors and cut! I am totally loving it. I have so much more volume and the style is so easy. It's short in the back, and angles down long in the front. I have peekaboo highlights all over and the color of my hair is a really dark rich brown and in the light there is a hint of red. I love it! Might put a little bit more red in it next time!

So...here's my hair. Not the best pic, but you get the idea. 

Ta-da!