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Hair | Tips | hair color

How to know if your hairstyle is work appropriate

Although many work environments encourage creative and fashion forward hairstyles, some jobs still require a conservative appearance.  Regardless if you wear your hair straight, curly, natural, braided, or in an afro, you can be sure that your hairstyle is work appropriate if you can answer yes to the following questions:

1. Does your hair look clean with no visible dandruff?

2. Other than subtle highlights, is your hair basically one color?

3. Does your hair color look natural for someone with your skin tone?

4. No matter if your hair is straight or curly, is your hair texture the same from roots to ends?

...and no to the following questions:

1. Do you have any visible white flakiness, stickiness, or unsightly buildup from styling products such as gels, pomades, or hairsprays?

2. Do you constantly have to touch your hair or move it out of your face?

3. Does your hair look as though it could easily get caught in a door or office/work equipment due to its extreme length or volume?

4. Does your hair give off an obtrusive odor?

5. Do your styling products drip or smudge onto your clothes, cubicle walls, or office/work equipment?

Be honest with yourself and tress for success.

Know the layers of a hair strand

A hair strand consists of three layers.  The cuticle is the outer layer--this layer has an average of three to ten layers that should be tightly packed together.  Proper moisturizing and conditioning are important to strengthen and protect the cuticle layers.  The cortex is the next layer under the cuticle--this layer determines your natural hair color and is where all permanent chemical changes (relaxers, hair dye) take place.  The medulla is the inner most layer--this protein layer is hollow, and the cuticle and cortex layers shape around it.  Most hair damage occurs in the cuticle layer and in extreme cases, the damage can reach the cortex and medulla.  Knowing and understanding the layers of a hair strand can help you make healthier choices for your hair.

Love your hair

All hair has its challenges and even though the grass may seem greener on the other side, it's not.  Many people with straight hair envy curly, and many with curly covet straight.  Love your hair and work with it, not against it.  Regardless of the texture, color, length, thickness, thinness, or temperament, all hair is beautiful.  Appreciating your hair and focusing on the positive are the first steps to having the healthy and beautiful hair that you've always wanted.