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Trick or treat? Styles that play up your strengths

BEAUTY CORNER
Last Updated 14 January 2011, 10:15 IST
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Certain facial features that detract from overall beauty can be remedied with very minor hair adjustments. These hair tricks should be combined with make-up touches to create convincing illusions. The key is not to go overboard. These techniques should fit into your favourite style, which is determined by the shape of your face and the texture of your hair. In fact, sometimes it’s what we don’t do that makes the biggest difference rather than what we do!

A prominent nose can be helped with some volume of hair on top and at the back of the head. Almost any length of hair will work for this style. But do not go for a flat top or a heavy fringe. Nothing too geometric either.

A high forehead must be covered, to some degree, by a fringe or bangs. Never pull your hair away from your face in a tight pony tail or updo.

A small forehead can take a soft and wispy fringe. When possible, avoid a fringe altogether. Do not think of having heavy bangs.

A double chin looks worse when you wear a long pageboy style. This style curves in under the jaw line and terribly emphasises the chin.  Your hair should end before reaching the chin area. Try not to have any hair falling between your jaw line and shoulders.

An extra long neck must get some hair down the back and sides to look good. You will need enough length to cover the neck. Do not experiment with a cropped pixie cut.
If you have a short neck, you should have hair tapered at the back. Covering the neck totally or wearing your hair up on top of your head is also acceptable. A geometrical cut is forbidden for anyone with less than a swan-like neck!

Along with the features that need fixing, everyone has a few attributes that require highlighting. Here are some ways to play up your strengths. Pretty eyes should be framed with accents. Try to draw attention to the centre of the face. Avoid long bangs or sweeps that hide any part of your eyes or eyebrows.

Prominent cheekbones are best not covered up. Take your hair away from sides of your face. Accents above the cheeks can be effective if done well. Clean or straight hairlines are often hidden from view by women who do not appreciate what they have. Wear your hair up or away from your face. Avoid bangs, fringes and wispy accents as far as possible.

Snip & shine

Asking your stylist for that first image-changing cut is a big step. But once that’s done you should have a practical plan to keep your hair in shape and at the best possible length. Knowing how your hair grows and when to get it cut is essential. Here are a few basic facts:

*Hair grows about ½ inch to 1 inch a month.
*Hair sometimes goes through shock two to four days after a haircut. A day or so later your hair will become manageable again.
*Hair should be cut every four to twelve weeks.

Hair might appear lifeless and limp every now and then. Chemical waves may make your hair appear healthy but they can sometimes do more harm than good.

The 5-minute body set: For this instant remedy you will need two special items. First, get a plastic headband that is wide enough to expand from ear to ear. Then, select any setting lotion from the many in the market. Spray the top and sides of your head with water. Follow this up with another round of spraying; this time use setting lotion. Gently comb your hair straight back, then slip the headband into place, and wait for 5 minutes until your hair dries. When you lightly brush your hair it will look soft, springy and very alive.

Curlers

There are four different sizes in the market. Choose the one that’s best for your hair length and desired tightness of curls.

A light spray of setting lotion before using the rollers promises you tighter curls.
To set hair on top of your head and along the sides, hold the rollers close to your scalp. Wind hair slowly around the sponges without yanking it and then fasten the rollers over the curls.

To set hair at the back of your head, roll all the hair from the ends towards the roots over the curlers.

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(Published 14 January 2011, 10:07 IST)

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