As the COVID-19 pandemic permeates throughout the world, it may seem juvenile to be concerned about beauty and upkeep, but I beg to differ.
For one, as much of the population is currently quarantined at home, taking the scenic route now entails an uncomfortable amount of time in front of an electronic screen or the mirror. Between the constant unsettling media presence and being ripped away from your usual routine, this is understandably an overwhelming time, to say the least.
If there was ever a time to advocate for self-care, I think it is essential now. While taking care of yourself can certainly raise your confidence and comfort levels, getting overly ambitious in this arena could also equate to a relative disaster. To avoid any risky business, here are some tips to help you navigate maintaining your hair from home.
Rule number one: step away from the box color. Again, for the people in the back, STEP AWAY FROM THE BOX COLOR! Looking over the high cost and inordinate amount of time a professional color correction entails, there are plenty of reasons why store-bought box color is not advisable. There is virtually always uncalled for amounts of ammonia, pigment and even metals in the over the counter variety. This increases the likelihood of allergic reactions and damage significantly. Best case scenario, you will just change the texture of your hair to something dull and straw-like. Beware of unpredictable and fortuitous results if you decide to take this into your own hands.
Color is not a one-formula-fits-all service.
Cosmetologists are highly trained in the laws and sciences of color, formulation and application. Professionals calculate a unique yet very specific formula for each and every client to achieve the desired results. This is something the aisles of Walgreens and Sally’s are simply not qualified to do. For example, if you and your friend both want to end up with the same color, you’re going to need two different formulas to get there despite the color that is shown on the box. Especially if one of you has gray hair to cover and the other does not.
As a bottle blonde, I understand the plight of keeping up with your color. However, given the circumstances, I am confident that efforts are best directed at protecting color and maintaining the integrity of your hair. Keep in mind, over-washing and heat styling will both fade color quicker, as well as deplete moisture levels. Try skipping a day or two between washes and opt for shampoos free of sulfates which strip hair of the natural oils requires to thrive. Reds and other vivid colors are notorious for fading quickly. Washing and rinsing with cool water will delay this. Deep conditioning and moisturizing the hair as much as possible is undoubtedly the best thing you can do in this scenario.
Try indulging with Oribe’s Moisture & Control Deep Treatment Masque. For best results, massage into hair, concentrating on the ends, put up into a bun and binge on questionable television for an entire day before rinsing: you deserve it. Can’t bare to look at your roots anymore? Pro-tip: Oribe’s Airbrush Root Touch-Up Spray. “Instantly cover greys and roots or revive highlights between appointments. Microfine pigments blend seamlessly with your natural shade when—and where—you need it. The quick-drying powder formula also absorbs dirt and oil to refresh hair.” No harm no foul!
While laws vary from state to state, here in Florida we are able to offer our clients color kits with professionally tailored formulas during this tumultuous time. At Bond Street Salon, our root touch-up kits are $100 and gloss kits are $50. Kits include: color, developer, bowl, brushes, gloves and written instructions. A link to an online tutorial is included via email, as well. Every Tuesday and Thursday, there will be curbside pickup at the salon from 10 am to 12 pm. Oribe products are also available for purchase at a 10% discount. Please call (561)-330-8760 to place an order.
As for your style, we cannot reverse the bangs you decide to give yourself after bingeing on Tiger King. You will not be able to blame them on Carole Baskin. We will be back in the salon for you as soon as we can! Stay safe and sensible, everyone.
Laura Powers, 2020. Author retains ownership, reuse or reprint by permission only.
