Tag: Hair loss

Chemotherapy and hair loss.

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Young woman with flowers

Chemotherapy drugs will cause different degrees of hair loss from very little to total.  In addition to the specific drug the other factors that can influence hair loss are the dose, how it’s administered, the combination of drugs, and other individual characteristics.

Hair loss can begin to occur two – four weeks after your first treatment. The way in which it will fall out can vary greatly from person to person. Many well meaning people may share their personal story but remember their story may not be your story.

In general, hair loss happens throughout treatment and may continue to fall out for a few weeks post treatment. The good news is hair loss can be a sign that the chemotherapy is working to some degree. It is not dangerous. However it can be disheartening to look in the mirror or run your fingers through your hair and feel the difference in thickness.

It can fall out gently (you may notice some on your pillowcase or in your hairbrush) or it can fall out in clumps. Please be kind to your scalp as it may feel tender to the touch. Being gentle with your brush or comb is a good idea.

Many times when it grows back it can be a different texture or color then your previous hair. Most of these changes are not permanent. It takes time for your hair to return to some form of its original look and feel. Many times you may choose to continue to wear your wig if you have chosen to get one or a pretty hat or scarf.

As you prepare to go for treatment you should be kind to your hair. Less is more. Stay away from coloring or bleaching as that may make your hair brittle. Minimize the use of hot blow dryers, flat irons and curling irons. Use a gentle shampoo preferably fragrance free.

You may want to consider shaving your hair but should you choose to do prior to beginning Chemotherapy since your scalp may become tender to the touch.

Choosing how you will cover your hear is a good decision to make at this time. It is very important to use a high SPF sunscreen if you do not cover your head as the skin on your scalp is much fairer then the rest of your body since it has not had as much sun exposure over the years.

Using a soft cotton or satin pillowcase may feel better and cause less irritation to your scalp or you can purchase a good cotton sleep cap.

As your hair grows back refrain from coloring or processing it in any way give it time to thicken and become healthy hair again. Be patient.

We offer complimentary 30 minute consultations if you would like to learn more about options we offer. Visit www.althairsolutions.com or call (203) 987-5948 ext 1

Lymphoma: The Paul Foundation’s Swirl Event

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swirl

We are trying to do our part to help eradicate cancer in our lifetime. At Alternative Hair Solutions in Greenwich, Conn, we have experienced the journey of the diagnosis, personally. We understand the power of the impact those words can have.  We offer solutions for medical hair loss.  As a stylist, Diane D’Angelo’s niche has always been women with hair challenges. Her total focus and commitment is to help ease the angst associated with medical hair loss. We look to help make it one less thing to worry about so that you can focus on what’s most important.

In the upcoming cancer awareness months we are proud contributors/sponsors to the following events:

November: We will support THE LYMPHOMA RESEARCH FOUNDATION/THE PAUL FOUNDATION-Swirl NYC on November 10,2016 if you would like to join us you may go to: lymphoma.org/swirlNYC  or if you are unable to attend you may donate directly at http://www.pwsfoundation.org/

On October 2, 2016 we joined forces THE SUPPORT Connection annual Breast and Ovarian Cancer Fundraiser 2016. Donations are still being accepted at http://www.firstgiving.com/fundraiser/daria-rocco-1/walk2016. Support Connection is an amazing organization located in Westchester County.  Our team is Daria’s Angels which was founded in 2003.
Please join us in any way you can to support the heroic efforts of these wonderful organizations

Or call (203) 987 5948 ext 1 or visit www.althairsolutions.com to learn more.

Private Salon: Is it right for you?

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Human wig out of box

Why a private salon?

In this big, global world sometimes we can become overwhelmed with options. When faced with hair loss, there are many choices to make. If your goal is to find the least expensive option and you really don’t need a professional, then the internet can serve you well. However, if you’re looking for value and individualized attention, a private salon can provide all of that and more for you.

As a private salon we have years of knowledge, experience in the field, we consistently comb the globe for product, and pursue continuing education all to bring you the very best. We work hard to make sure the product that we offer you isn’t something you’ll find all over the internet. Pictures can be quite deceiving; what may look beautiful online oftentimes has been styled and adjusted by a professional.

Are wigs sold online less expensive? Some are, some are not. Continuity is not always a guarantee – I have spoken with clients who ordered the same product twice and have received completely different versions. There can be hidden costs such as restocking fees that can be as much as 20% of the purchase price if you need to return. Every wig needs some adjustments or styling which can require a work from a professional. The picture in this post features a synthetic hair wig taken directly out of a box; unless you are adept at styling, using the proper tools and understanding variables that can damage a wig (e.g., heat tolerance) it may become a challenge.

A brick and mortar, private salon excels in personalized customer service and devotes the time needed to deliver that will not be competitive with prices online. If you’re someone who appreciates having a stylist that can work with you one-on-one to achieve your personalized look, then booking a consultation is your next step. Given the large amount of diversity in product, it can take more then one appointment to achieve the perfect fit or style.

Consider how much money you spend to maintain your hair. Now factor in hair cuts, coloring, and highlights over a year. You’ll realize that many hair options will cost you about the same (or sometimes even a little less) than what you would normally spend on hair maintenance in a year.

Here is an excerpt on Yelp from just one of our clients::

“In her intimate salon, Ms. D’Angelo keeps everything very personal and very private. She works one-on-one with her clients, by appointment only. She has created a warm and welcoming environment where she focuses on what is best for her clients. What she does comes from her heart. It is clear that she is not driven by “selling,” but rather by helping her clients through what is most likely the most difficult time of their lives. With her expertise in all types of hair, Ms. D’Angelo was able to help me understand all of my options and help me choose the best solution to meet my needs. We discussed the differences between real hair and synthetic. I was able to pick the style, color and cut to my complete satisfaction. Throughout, she was extremely patient and very creative. Her work is amazing and I can honestly say that she exceeded my expectations. “

Visit our website at www.althairsolutions.com or call (203) 987 – 5948 ext. 1 to learn more.

Face Shape – which best describes yours?

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There are so many options in hair today. Choosing what is best for you can be narrowed down by first deciding your face shape. Here are a few ideas for flattering your face shape with Alternative Hair options. These tips will also work for your own hair.

Heart: Think Reese Witherspoon, Halle Berry or Scarlette Johansson

The HEART Shape Face is characterized by a wide forehead and a narrower chin. Bring some hair onto the forehead to disguise its width. Keep hair close to the head at the eyes but make it slightly full around the jaw, and below and in front of the earlobes.

Square: Think Demi Moore, Minka Kelly or Natalie Portman

The SQUARE Shape Face is characterized by a wide hairline and jaw. Square shaped faces need height on top and narrowness at the sides. Comb the hair off the forehead to add height to the face. Curly texture and wisps of hair around the face break the wide, straight lines common to the square face.

Round: Think Paula Deen, Penelope Cruz or Cameron Diaz

The ROUND Shape Face is characterized by a wide hairline and fullness below the cheekbones. Sometimes extra weight can make face appear round and the neck may appear short. These faces look very good with a geometric or linear style. Add height, when possible, and long, wispy side areas to make the cheeks look narrow. Comb hair close to the head on the side and at the nape.

Oval: Think Kate Middleton, Tina Fey or Julianne Moore

The OVAL Shape Face is longer than wide, with a jaw that’s narrower than the cheekbones. Because the oval shaped face has no dominant areas and is so proportional, this face looks good with just about any hairstyle, length or texture. If you were born with an oval face, consider yourself a lucky girl. This is probably the most normal face shape there is, because it has perfect proportions—it’s not too square or too round allowing you a multitude of options for hairstyles.

 

If you can’t decide what shape  best describes your face then setting up a private wig/hairpiece consultation will help you determine what styles can work best for you. Contact (203)987 5948  ext 1 or visit www.althairsolutions.com and fill out a consultation questionnaire.

My Hair Twin | Alternative Hair Solutions

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How much will my wig cost?

My journey into the world of hair options began when I was 41. Of course, the need for hair options came at a time when my natural tresses where absolutely perfect. My hair was finally the right length, the right color, and had the right amount of highlights. Was it the perfect storm, or was it nature’s cruelty set out to humble me? I’m not really sure, but I soon learned that my exact hair twin was out there in the form of a beautiful wig.

At the time of my pending chemo I dreaded the thought of my next steps. Feeling the reality of it all setting in, I waited until the final moments to see what exactly was available to me. In my very first appointment I found my hair twin! While that’s not always how it happens, I was lucky enough to have it happen for me.  The experience can be compared to finding the perfect wedding dress. You may love it initially, but it might take a few minor adjustments or additional fittings to get it exactly the way you feel most comfortable.  Sometimes customizing the wig for your face will require a trim or an added layer and possibly a highlight or two.

My hair twin became my better half. Since it was not subjected to being slept on (bed-head), washed, over dried, or other factors such as high humidity, over processing, or a scissor-happy hair stylist, I soon learned that I could easily slip my hair on and have it perfect in under five minutes. As someone who always struggled with blow-drying her own hair, I began to wonder if this could actually be quite a blessing. It was instant gratification for something I had previously labored on for hours. In today’s microwave society, I have to ask: who doesn’t like instant results?

Now that my hair has returned to normal, I must admit that I have an even greater appreciation for the ability to have perfect tresses in an instant. Once you get past the initial diagnosis, there’s a lot of freedom in the wonderful options available today.

Come visit us for a complimentary consultation call 203 987 5948 ext 1 or drop by our website at www.althairsolutions.com

Hats off to the Summer | Alternative Hair Solutions

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Pintrest Hat hair

As summer kicks off what’s a girl to do? We want to look fabulous but we also want to be comfortable. Finally there is a perfect solution. Breathable, lightweight ‘on trend options’ for the warmer weather. With barbecues, pool time and picnics there is no need to stress over your tresses.  Our private studio will show you how simple this and other options can be.

Now you can keep your focus on the fun stuff like making the perfect Lemonade or Potato Salad.

Perfect Potato Salad:

Ingredients:

Directions

  • Prep 10 minutes, Cook 30 minutes and Ready In 40 minutes

  1. Bring a small pot of salted water to a boil. Add potatoes; cook until tender but still firm, about 15 minutes. Drain and cool.
  2. Place eggs in a saucepan, and cover completely with cold water. Bring water to a boil. Cover, remove from heat, and let eggs stand in hot water for 10 to 12 minutes. Remove from hot water, and cool.
  3. Peel the eggs and cut around the egg white; keep the yolk whole.
  4. Dice the egg whites and potatoes. Combine in a mixing bowl and add the salad dressing.
  5. Toss the potatoes and egg; crumble the egg yolk on top and serve chilled.

Hats off to the summer, keeping it simple and the perfect potato salad! Call us at (203) 987 – 5948 ext 1 or visit www.althairsolutions.com

Quick fix for female hair loss

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Female Pattern Baldness

Hair loss in woman can have a major impact on all aspects of life. It is estimated that less than 45% of woman go through life without experiencing some degree of hair loss as quoted by the National Institute of Health (NIH).

It can be hard to be both confident and positive when we experience such physical changes. For men today a bald head is almost a fashion statement. For woman it can be devastating.  Many women find it to be challenging to be themselves in both personal and professional environments. The stress of this situation can have a negative effect on social and professional levels of one’s life.

It has been suspected that stress can lead to even greater hair loss.  We can offer you a quick 5 minute makeover at Alternative Hair Solutions. Learning about your options can have tremendous effects in reducing the stress and helping you regain your confidence.

We are a solutions orientated, private salon with several options to choose from. Each are non surgical. Many times our client is able to leave with one of those options.

We may not always be able to control what happens to our bodies but as woman having both the power and the knowledge about solutions available can put us back in the driver’s seat.

If you or a loved one would like to learn more call (203) 987-5948 ext 1 or visit althairsolutions.com today.

Thinning hair and/or total hair loss| Alternative Hair Solutions

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pdfimg10Thinning hair and/or total hair loss (or more formally known as, alopecia) can occur for many reasons. It can affect just your scalp or your entire body from conditions like trichotillomania, when someone pulls and tugs on their hair creating small patches of scalp consciously or unconsciously, which can lead to partial or total hair loss. It’s more common among teens and college students, especially when they are experiencing pressure from school or social interactions.

A zinc deficiency can lead to a direct result of  thinning hair. It’s often associated with hypothyroidism, which is an overlooked cause of alopecia. Thyroid hormones are essential for the body to absorb zinc. It can also be found in foods like cashews, pumpkin seeds, chick peas and spinach, but sometimes it’s necessary to use supplements.

Other key factors that lead to thinning hair and/or total hair loss include heredity, hormonal changes, medical conditions, medications, or stress; any of those can lead to hair loss or the more formal name alopecia.

Today, stress levels are at an all-time high. Finding better ways to release stress can be helpful.  For example, a good book, exercising, a great massage, a sport, or a hobby is a step in the right direction. Good nutrition is also an important asset for your total body.

For many of us, we don’t even realize when we are internalizing stress. As women, we can be calm, cool, and collected on the outside, but our insides can be a tangled web of emotions that ultimately surface through disease, hair loss, or depression.

Thinning hair and/or total hair loss does not discriminate, regardless of age or gender. There are many different types of alopecia. The usual suspects that can add to your risk factor are family history, age, poor nutrition, stress, or certain medical conditions such as lupus, diabetes, and cancer.

We can control some of the risks of thinning hair and/or total hair loss, but of course, there are several that we cannot. Learning the options that are available to you can provide a source of relief immediately.

For thinning hair, many times a simple clip-on hair piece is all that’s needed. There is also non-surgical bonding for areas of semi-permanent or permanent total hair loss. Wigs either synthetic or human hair are yet another option. Some women choose to just wear a scarf or trendy hat.

Thinning hair and/or total hair loss can either be temporary or permanent; therefore, it’s important to see your doctor as soon as you begin noticing a change in your normal hair, or are experiencing unusually high levels of stress.

Feel free to book a complimentary consultation with us to learn the options available for you or a loved one.  Call 203 987 5948 ext 1 or visit www.althairsolutions.com to learn more.

Wig Shopping – Doesn’t Have To Be Devastating | Alternative Hair Solutions

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IMG_2429WIG SHOPPING – Doesn’t have to be devastating

 

Thrust into a sisterhood that I never wanted to belong to, the thought of losing my hair was equally as devastating as those words “you’ve got cancer”! My hair was a testament to my femininity and my sexuality. It was no consolation when flip comments were made that” it will grow back”. I know it was a genuine attempt to minimize the devastation, however, it was futile.

I am a confident women who started the journey demoralized and feeling bad about myself worried that it would be apparent to the world that I was sick.  Then I got a grip on the situation and I realized  that instead of wallowing in self pity, this could be my opportunity to try looks and colors that I had been curious about but was too afraid to try. I no longer had to commit to chopping my hair into those pixies I loved.  If I tried a pixie and I didn’t like it, it only took one fast swipe to change it up.

I had the options of  synthetic  hair which would insure  I’d always look good even when the humidity was at its highest or human hair ( I defy anyone to identify as not being my own) or a combination of both that would give me the best attributes of each.

I created a pinterest board with pictures of me on  what I considered  to be  my best  hair days. I surrounded those pictures with images of everything that even remotely appealed to me because now was my moment of opportunity. Wig shopping does not have to be devastating!

Looking in the rear view mirror now, I can say with certainty that wig shopping doesn’t have to be devastating! It can transform how you feel about yourself! Shopping for it can be distracting fun, thanks to the terrific options available today.

Shopping for a wig is just that… shopping. Turns out I bought 4 different wigs to have options for different times and moods.

I now I fancy myself somewhat of a pro. My tips to anyone buying wigs are to get a comfortable cap. That is what the hair is attached to.  Do not buy a wig from someone who does not measure your head. Find a stylist who is familiar with fitting a wig as there are 5 sets of measurements to a perfect fit. When the wig fits right, you know it immediately, just like when you find that perfect pair of pants!. You feel confident and secure.  NEVER buy a wig that is too tight. It will never look natural or feel good. Most wigs are adjustable to make them bigger or smaller.  If you are getting a lace front that allows you to wear your hair off your face, match the scalp color to your skin tone and once you have bought it have the lace cut in a zig zag pattern close to your hairline.

A personal tip to anyone buying wigs is if you get itchy, a rat tail comb slid UNDER your wig feels amazing! Just be sure it is never used on top of the cap so as not to damage a hand tied cap.

Visit www.althairsolutions.com to book a complimentary consultation or call 203 987 5948

My Hairitage | Alternative Hair Solutions

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I’ve always spent an inordinate amount of time seeking follicular perfection! Looking effortless was an exhausting effort. I was challenged — no, rather, petrified — when it came to the simple act of handling a blow dryer and a brush.

Over and over I tried to instill that being “overtressed” adds more years than wrinkles, layers frame the face, hair should have body, hair that is washed too often can be damaged, and that I should resist heated styling tools. After all, well-maintained hair signifies health, youth, and professional credibility. From the Marie Claire magazine, “there is age, and there is hair age,” and I never wanted anyone to guess my age via my hair. I was conscious of having age-appropriate hair while also being trendy — a conundrum of sorts. Why was hair judged so harshly??

After being blindsided by cancer and the impending hair loss, I was thrust unwillingly into the hair o sphere that is wigs and hairpieces. Not having the courage to embrace “bald is beautiful” I had to venture into an arena that I previously thought was for celebrities, definitely not me. As I did my research, I found that wig and hairpiece revenue in the US is quickly heading toward the billion dollar marker. NY Magazine proclaimed “On any given day, New Yorkers encounter as many wigs on their morning commute as fake Goyyard bags”

Thanks to Lady Gaga and Nicki Minaj, wigs are not only accepted, they are touted.

I had to convince myself to embrace it, not to hide or deny it. As a fashion executive for 30+ years, I was used to taking risks. Why should this be any different? Each month as I perused the fashion magazines, I marveled over Anna Wintour’s bob, or wondered if I could possibly rock a pixie like Halle Berry. I got to try them all, something that I would have never done voluntarily. I now subscribe to the mantra that variety is a testament to my creativity.

Wigs today are virtually undetectable thanks to the great strides made in their quality and construction. There’s hair that blows in all directions, real parts that reveal scalp even if you have hair underneath, lace fronts that allow you to wear hair off your face and not hide behind bangs, the botox alternative. There’s highlights, lowlights — you name it.

Gone are the days of me risking my life in a nor’easter to get to a pre-dawn blow dry appointment before work, or spending the equivalent of a night at the Four Seasons to pay for a mediocre hairdo while on vacation. I will gladly visit rain forests or golf in Scotland because I know at the end of the day I won’t resemble a chia pet while pretending to have a good time.

Instead, I now say hello to sleeping in, and indulge my desire to find out if blondes have more fun. Wigs are my opportunity not only to change things up, but also to finally get the follicular perfection I was always longing for.
The most important attribute to pulling off a wig is really just this: ATTITUDE.

Contact us at Alternative Hair Solutions 203 987 5948