Tips - October 2006

Bobs are back!

For several years, hair fashion has revolved around long hair - either straight, wavy or more recently, with masses of curls. This is now changing. Winter saw a move toward chic, shorter styles, and as we head into the warmer months, the bob and variations of it are the hottest new look. Already many celebrities like Sienna Miller, Kate Hudson, Victoria Beckham and Nicole Ritchie are all sporting gorgeous cropped versions.

The bob is a cut that can easily be tailored to a person's individual features and bone structure. Another wonderful thing about it is that it can be modified into different looks, simply by using styling tools and finishing products. For example, by using rollers or tongs, you can create a curly version that is romantic and feminine, a la Sarah Jessica Parker.

The Classic Bob

This is a solid one-length haircut to the shoulder that moves freely. The beauty of this classic look is that it can be worn any lenght - to the shoulders, chin or just to the jawline - depending on what suits the wearer. The classic bob is best worn with either a sweeping fringe to the side or a rounded full fringe. The cut must be executed with precision, and the hair must also be beautifully groomed to maintain a clean, smooth and sleek finish.

The Concave Bob

This version is a little more edgy, with shortness at the nape moving to a longer length at the front. The fringe can be either blunt cut or swept to one side. The concave can be as extreme or subtle as desired. This style is great for thick hair as it sits well, looks chic and with less hair at the back, is extremely manageable.

The Assymetrical Bob

As the name suggests, one side is longer than the other - a cut that is best suited to someone with a more daring approach to their total look. Again, this version of the bob can be as extreme or subtle as you wish. Its big advantage is its versatility - for example, the longer side can be pinned up or tucked behind the ear to completely change the style.

The Layered Bob

Any versions of the bob cut can be transformed by introducing shorter layers to create more movement and texture. The result is a sexy, sassy look, as worn by sultry sirens such as Sharon Stone. If you have naturally curly hair a bob can still work for you. An unstructured finish that is fresh and fun, is easy to achieve - providing your hair is cut well by a stylist who understands curly hair. Anyone with curly hair will tell you that their pet hate is frizz. To keep curls looking soft, gorgeous and in control, try Redken Ringlet or L'Oreal Curl Memory Down Creme.

Handy Bob Tips

1. A good well-executed haircut is vital.
2. If you have straight hair, you'll need the correct round styling brush.
3. If you have curly hair, ask your hairdresser to suggest the best curling product.
4. Have your bob trimmed every 5-6 weeks.
5. Use hairpins and combos to change the look of your hair.
6. Colour can be used creatively to enhance and compliment the cut.

The 3 Minute Face - Minimal Makeup Look

1. Start with concealer under the eyes and in the most recessed corners of the eyes. It makes you look awake. Always use sunscreen.

2. The next step is to deal with your skin. Put on a tinted moisturizer or if your skin is smooth naturally, sweep a natural blush colour or bronzer on your cheeks. Or, using a foundation quickly cover a blemish or redness around the nose.

3. This is a moment for brown or black mascara.

4. Wear sheer or lightly tinted gloss on your lips.

Beauty Treatments that don't mix with sunshine

Waxing - Wait 48 hours before you expose newly waxed body bits to the sun. But if you can't avoid it, use a sunblock and aloe vera gel afterwards.

Micro dermabrasion - Avoid the sun for 48 hours after having a professional treatment. Then use a high SPF sunblock.

Laser hair removal - Don't expose newly lasered areas to the sun for eight weeks. Sun exposure can cause brown pigmentation.

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