School is right around the corner, and you know what that means ... back-to-school shopping and new hairstyles!
Don't let your kids show up for that first day without looking their best. Kids are more aware of fashion and style than ever. They want to make a splash on that first day, and maybe they want to replicate something from a favorite TV show or YouTube video.
Kids aren't trying to hide gray roots, but they still may want some color. Those boxed, off-the-shelf kits are pretty tempting but, as I've said before, "see a pro!" The last thing you want is a hair disaster on Day One.
Here are some other tips:
• Start young with good habits. Take care of your hair now! Always be conscious of the products that you use. Hair can be damaged very easily without you realizing it. Yes, it can be more expensive to use professional quality products, and that is usually for a good reason. Also, suds are not always good. That sometimes means that your shampoo has a lot of sulfates that can be hard on your hair.
• Don't forget to clarify kids' hair, just like your own. Overuse of products such as gels and hairspray can build up on hair causing it to go limp and flat. These deposits can also interfere with how well hair absorbs color.
• There are lots of great professional clarifying shampoos but there is always the good ol' baking soda treatment. Mix water with an equal volume of baking soda. Rub it into your hair after shampooing. Let it sit for three to five minutes, rinse then condition.
• Be cautious of overusing hot tools. They can do a lot of damage quickly to your hair. Everything in moderation, that's my rule for curling irons, flat irons and blow dryers. Avoid high heat settings. You don't need them. My recommendation: don't flat iron you're your hair more than two or three times a week.
• Avoid washing your hair every day. Washing every other day is enough for most of us, and our kids. Give our hair a break. Use headbands or barrettes and ponytails in between washing.
• Fun, vivid colors are a hit in kids' hair, but remember that hair extensions can provide a blast of color and they're not permanent! Also, don't use Kool-Aid if you're looking for a quick, wash-out color, because it can stain lighter hair.
• One more time: see a professional! I hate seeing young men and women experiment with off-the-shelf box colors. There is method to our madness as stylists and certain rules to follow when coloring hair. It seems easy but, trust me, you're playing with fire.
Most important, make sure to have fun with your kids with these school preparations and as always....Be Open to Change!
-- This feed and its contents are the property of The Huffington Post, and use is subject to our terms. It may be used for personal consumption, but may not be distributed on a website.