Category: Great Hair Truths & Tips

Ask me about: Look Good Feel Better

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As someone diagnosed with breast cancer I didn’t want to be part of “The Club” so when it was offered to me to go for a Look Good Feel Better session, immediately I said “No,thank you”. After all, I had a terrific support team and the last thing I wanted to be reminded of was my diagnosis. Somehow I believed by not being associated with support groups, I was somehow handling my own journey. I was strong. I was different then others.

How silly of me! I can only tell you that now. I am a fully certified volunteer for the program. Each month, I have the privileged of being present with some of the bravest and beautiful woman I have had the pleasure to meet. When the session begins we are all strangers with a common denominator: the big C. As the session ends we are all team members ready to fight back on the identity loss that can come from this illness.

We share tips and walk you through a step by step program that the American Cancer Society has worked long and hard to provide. There are fabulous make up and skin care products available for each participant. It is also a great resource for wigs both human and synthetic including care and tips on other accessories.

This is the first part in a series I will be posting about. I am interested to hear your questions. Please feel free to comment.

We can help! Visit www.althairsolutions.com or call (203) 987 5948 Ext 1

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

Your Piece of Mind

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Your piece of mind
Your piece of mind

Did you know that stress is one of the most common causes of hair loss in woman?  Your body’s way of responding to any kind of demand or threat can be both internal and/or external.  Gaining weight and hair thinning are just two ways of your body reacting. When you experience stress your nervous system responds by releasing a flood of stress hormones, including adrenaline and cortisol into your body.

Generally it is physiological stress that causes hair loss. Some physiological stress examples are: major surgery, a weight gain/loss of more the 15 pounds, severe calorie restriction and going off oral contraceptives are the most common ones.  This type of hair loss is usually temporary as long as the stress is temporary. Once the stress event is over hair generally begins to grow back and the normal hair cycle resumes.

Be patient and kind to your self. For your piece of mind, know that clip in toppers or wigs can help bridge this temporary hair loss time. Owning this type of accessory can be a huge time saver for the busy woman. You hair can look terrific in just a few minutes when you learn how how simple it is to wear.

To learn more visit www.althairsolutions.com or call (203) 987 4948 ext 1

 

 

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.

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

Grieving Hair Loss

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grieving-woman-350

Embracing hair loss isn’t easy. Grieve, it’s ok, actually it is normal.

I wish I could tell you it was easy. I can’t. What I can tell you is that understanding your solutions makes the process much more manageable. So first and foremost: It’s ok to grieve your hair loss.

We understand. Working with many clients who have had both temporary and permanent hair loss has allowed us to understand and help you through the the process.

Temporary hair loss from chemo or some type’s of alopecia comes with the comfort that we just need to bridge this moment in time.

Permanent hair loss can be more challenging because of the obvious.

In time, it does get easier especially if you have familiarized your self with the multitude of options available to you. For some it can open up a whole new world.  When you think about how much time, money and effort is expended on perfecting your tresses and realize you can have exactly what you want by exploring the different options that are now available.

The next perk is your wig/hairpiece.

With proper care, it will stay the way you purchased it. You just don’t have the maintenance involved with your own hair. Just think, no roots in a few weeks, no grey peaking through, highlights and a haircut that doesn’t grow out. None of the usual upkeep our original tresses require.

The initial outlay of money is sometimes overwhelming to comprehend but if you total up all that you spend throughout the year you will find it pretty much runs about the same costs without requiring the time natural hair can ask of us.

One of the perks many seem to enjoy is the ability to change cut, color or length without the commitment. Many times hair wearers will choose to have a few different looks to enjoy in a moments notice or whenever the mood suits them.

The greatest fear we come across is most do not want hair to feel heavy or hot. With the cap selections today, many wigs (in several different price ranges) are extremely comfortable to wear. You can be as active as you would like when you select the right cap and hair. It’s possible to have a style you can even wear off your face or in a pony tail.

Grieving hair loss is ok, it is actually normal. Then come visit to learn about your options our private salon can offer you with total discretion. For your piece of mind.

After all, your hair is our business and your privacy, our main concern. Call (203) 987-5948 ext 1 or visit www.althairsolutions.com

Hungry for Hair Growth

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There are foods that can help your hair grow faster. If you are playing the “waiting game” and it seems like your strands are growing in slow motion, foods that you eat (or apply) can aid in the process.

According to trained nutritionist (from Harvard and Yale Medical School) Jayson Calton, PHD and licensed nutritionist and fitness chef Mira Calton, CN there are foods that can help your hair grow faster. Here are a few of our favorites:

  • SALMON – Vitamin D and Omega 3 fatty acids promote a healthy scalp. Healthy scalp equals healthy hair.
  • NUTS/SEEDS – are getting their share of the limelight. Different types have different characteristics. They can be rich in Omega 3, fatty acids, biotin, vitamin E or copper.  For example: walnuts are a source of both essential fatty acids and flaxseed. Almonds have high biotin content. Biotin is a water soluble vitamin of B complex and is a star element which helps keep your hair shiny and lustrous. One cup of almonds contains almost one third of your daily requirement. Sunflower seeds can provide you with an abundance of Vitamin E that enhances blood flow to the scalp promoting faster hair growth. These vitamins also protect your hair against damage from the sun and act as a shield when you venture out.
  • EGGS – not only a source of Omega 3s but also the aforementioned Biotin. Unfortunately, the yoke is where it is contained, so beware if you are the type of person who prefers egg whites only. Too many egg whites can actually block absorption of biotin causing a depletion of the micro nutrient.
  • YELLOW BELL PEPPERS – are loaded with Vitamin C. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that strengthens the hair shaft and follicle. Vitamin C boosts collagen that will protect hair from breaking. Citrus fruits and strawberries are also good.
  • SWEET POTATOES – contain beta carotene, the precursor for vitamin A.
  • OYSTERS – rich in zinc which aids in the production of Androgen. Being deficient of the mineral Zinc is a known contributor to hair loss because that contributes to poor scalp conditions.
  • AVOCADOS – they receive a lot of positive press lately; however, they are actually an age old beauty secret. If you apply it topically to hair and scalp, they have the ability to stimulate collagen and elastin production. Avocados can also become an exfoliator if mixed with a product like sour cream that contains lactic acid. Ten minutes on the scalp can do the trick to help exfoliate dead skin and clean out the buildup on the scalp.

 

In essence, you can eat your way to faster hair growth. Visit our website www.althairsolutions.com or call us at (203)987-5948 Ext 1 to discuss options for you to enjoy as your hair is growing in that will help make an easy transition for you.

Photo credit: Mike65444 via Foter.com / CC BY-SA

Bridge the gap of temporary female hair loss

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hair loss option

Hair loss can happen quite rapidly.

Why me? Is a very common reaction to hair loss. Whether hair loss is from stress, chemo, nutrition, over styling, medications, Androgenetic alopecia or an auto immune disease it really doesn’t matter as much physiologically as the initial shock of why me? One day you can have a full head of hair and then the next you notice it is thinning quite rapidly. Knowing your options to bridge the gap is important to reduce the stress that is associated with hair loss.

My personal experience with hair loss was chemo driven however the emotional cycle was not very different then my female friends who have experienced both thinning and total hair loss for different reasons.

I found it helpful to know the human hair growth cycle and that more then 97% of female hair loss is temporary and not permanent. Every one of us both male and female are losing hair every day. One look at our hair growth cycle and we understand that every hair is at a different stage of the growth cycle. Sometimes we simply need to bridge the gap of female hair loss. Wigs and hair pieces are great options.

  1. Anagen (Growing Phase) lasts 2 – 7 years
  2. Catagen (Regression Phase) hair follicle shrinks. Lasts approx 30 days
  3. Exogen (Shedding Phase) resting hair becomes terminal and gradually loosened. Lasts approx 10 Days
  4. Telogen (Resting Phase) Lasts  approx 3 months

If hair enters the resting phase too early, excess shedding and noticeable thinning of hair can occur. Over time the length of the Anagen stage decreases. Hair can become weaker and thinner after each cycle. This is just one of the reasons it is important to have a diet that is rich in specific nutrients to maintain normal, healthy hair growth.

Supplements like saw palmetto can be beneficial to help block DHT.  Having your scalp cleansed with a DHT blocker shampoo is one more tool in you hair loss tool belt. You should see a dermatologist to help you discern if either of these may be helpful in your individual situation.

You may find comfort in knowing that there are many solutions to bridge the gap of your temporary or permanent hair loss. There are non surgical options that are not only painless but they offer instant gratification with a lush, beautiful head of hair that can be either bonded or not. Come visit our private salon to see which option is best for you.

Call (203) 987 – 5948 ext 1 or visit www.althairsolutions.com

 

Active Lifestyle Tips

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Young woman with flowers
Young woman with flowers

Facts to consider when wearing hair and maintaining an active lifestyle.

We have often been asked “what wigs will work best for a person who has an active lifestyle”? It is important that you be aware of the characteristics of different types of wigs so that you can make the appropriate choice. Wigs can be an investment  and you need them to serve you well and last. Wigs do deteriorate over time.  You need a breathable wig for sports. If you shampoo it every day because you are active, the life expectancy will be shortened. It is realistic that by time a human hair wig is 9 months old it will need to be repaired or replaced.

 

For Swimming

A human hair wig is porous so it isn’t recommended to swim in.  Not to mention that chlorine and salt are very damaging. As is true with our natural hair, sun oxidizes and fades the color. You can swim in a full silicone cap, but human hair is four times the weight of synthetic hair so the weight of water alone can pull a silicone cap away from the head. If you submerge your head a wig will stretch out if its wet and taut on your head. Your best bet is an inexpensive synthetic piece.

Vacuum Wigs are made with 100% medical grade silicone. They have the ability to pass water vapor through them so they are breathable. Do consider that sweat does accumulate inside the cap if worn for athletic activities so be sure to clean the inside of the cap daily. Use a little mild detergent or wet wipes for hygiene to do so.

If you are wearing a lace front, use waterproof adhesive along the front so it doesn’t lift off when sweating.

If your hair is thinning and you augment that with a topper, you can swim in a topper but again it should be synthetic. Just be sure that if you go underwater, you must secure the topper so that the clips will not pull on your delicate hair. Best hint is to put it on with a wide hairband holding it in place or put it into a messy bun on top of your head.

visit www.althairsolutions.com or call us today (203) 987-5948 ext 1 for more information.

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.