There’s nothing like the feeling you get from an in-salon beauty treatment.
Be it an appointment with your hairdresser, a relaxing massage, or just a mini make-over, these simple acts of indulgence can brighten up you day to no end.
But if you’ve ever experienced such salon-inspired exultation, then you’re no doubt also familiar with the downside, when you’re popped out of your salon-happy bubble with the realisation that that’s it – another treat come and gone, with so much time to wait before the next.
Luckily, here at beautyheaven we’re all about finding ways for you to look good and feel great – with or without a trip to the salon. Here, we show you how to prolong your just-been-beautified buzz from the comfort of your own home:
Locks that rock (between visits to your hairdresser) Come on, admit it beauties, how many of you out there have avoided washing your hair for as long as possible after a trip to your hairdresser, just to extend the life-span of your blow-dry? Unfortunately there’s only so long you can sport that fresh-from-the-salon style, which is why we’ve enlisted the help of Emiliano Vitale, Creative Director of Sydney’s E Salon, to show us how to achieve the perfect DIY blow-dry:
Step 1: The key to a great blow-dry is clean hair. Once you have cleansed and conditioned your locks, thoroughly rinse your hair leaving no residue, and finish with some cold water. This helps to seal the cuticle and add incredible shine to your hair.
Step 2: Blow-drying off any excess moisture in your hair is vital when achieving a salon-perfect style. Position your hairdryer so that the airflow is directed down the hair shaft, as opposed to upwards, as this will ensure the outer layer of your hair stays smooth, giving you that sophisticated, polished, ‘just left the salon’ look.
Step 3: Apply a small amount of your preferred styling product (this is where your hairdresser is vital, as he/she will recommend what is right for your hair type and condition). To create a salon-perfect blow-dry at home you will need to use product!
Step 4: If your hair is bobbed or naturally smooth, the goal here is to have the correct sized round brush to suit your length (your stylist will recommend this for you). When drying, do not lift too much from the roots, as this creates an old-fashioned look. The key is to ‘grip’ your hair to the brush at the roots, then work both your brush and hairdryer down towards the ends.
Using a small, concentrated nozzle for precise heat and ensuring that the airflow is always directed downwards will help you achieve amazing shine. Finish your styling session with a light spritz of finishing spray for added hold and extra shine. (Try: Schwartzkopf Professional OSiS+ Elastic – Flexible Hold Hairspray). Key Tip: Patience, and having the right hair dryer with various heat and speed settings, is vital in creating the perfect blow-dry. It’s also a good idea to start with the back sections first, so you can finish with the ‘easier’ front section before you become too tired! (Try: VS Sassoon Ultimate Salon Dryer).
Something to smile about (between appointments with your dentist) If you love how clean your teeth and gums feel after a trip to the dentist but can’t seem to achieve the same feeling at home, then we’re about to give you one big reason to flash those pearly whites. Colgate Total® Advanced Clean*, the latest product in the Colgate Total® toothpaste line-up, is specially formulated with an advanced cleaning silica system to remove plaque build-up on teeth and gums and help you maintain a dentist clean feeling between professional visits. Less plaque means less chance of cavities and surface staining, which can help you achieve a brighter, whiter smile – every day. And the best part is you’ll notice the difference after just one brush. So go on, get brushing! *Always read the label. Use only as directed.
Pamper yourself (between sessions at the day spa) As much as we’d all love to indulge ourselves with weekly massages and facials, I’m pretty sure few among us actually have the time or money to do so (unless of course you’re Paris Hilton reading this article!). But on the off chance you’re not an heiress, it doesn’t mean you have to forego the relaxation benefits of a day of pampering.
Try these quick-and-easy ways to spoil yourself, minus a trip to the spa – perfect for the girl-on-the-go:
– Smooth on a deep cleansing mud mask and relax in a warm bubble bath complete with scented candles and relaxing music. You’ll be amazed at how rejuvenated you’ll feel after a mere 15-minute soak. (Try: Yes To Carrots C the Difference Exfoliating and Soothing Mud Mask, and Jurlique Tranquil Bubble Bath).
– Lather up in the shower with a tropical-scented scrub to stimulate your senses, invigorate sluggish skin, and leave your body feeling soft and supple. (Try: Pure Fiji Coconut Sugar Rub).
– Ease tired muscles with a mini body massage the next time you apply your moisturiser. Focus on your shoulders, neck, calves, feet, and hands for instant stress relief. (Try: NIVEA Body Touch of Happiness Body Lotion).
Have you tried any of the products mentioned?
Review them now to earn points that you can swap for free beauty products in RewardsRoom.
