The other day I found my self looking up the archives of my blog "Hair and There" to look at some of the subject matter I have discussed. Much to my surprise, I realized I have been blogging for two years. To my bigger surprise, I realized that many of you have sent in questions, most of them still unanswered. The comment "Should we put Louis's picture on a milk bottle?" said it all. I was delinquent and for this I apologize. I must admit that once I post each entry I check to see that it is posted, look at the art work chosen to illustrate it and read it again to be sure it's coherent.

I am still a bit insecure about my writing. You must understand I came to New York after finishing my degree in art from Syracuse University. After a few struggling years as a painter, I stumbled into my career as a hair colorist. I never went to journalism school. No one is more amazed than I am that I have the opportunity to write this blog!

Unfortunately, I do not have the time to answer every question that has been posted. In the future, I will dedicate a bi-monthly blog to answer your inquiries. Please send in any questions you have about haircuts, color, condition, trends or anything else you need to know. I'll be happy to answer your questions.


"I have dark hair, basically black, and I really want to put light brown and red highlights in my hair. I want to do this using store-bought dye, but I've never done this before. Am I just supposed to follow the instructions on the box or will the colors not come out right because my hair is too dark?"  -Ann Marie


There are highlighting kits available for dark-haired women. They are clearly labeled as highlights for brunettes. If you are ever in doubt about your shade choice, look on the box for a color chart. It will clearly state "not recommended" if it is not the right product for your shade of hair. Natural black hair can be highlighted successfully if you choose highlights in the brown family. I would avoid red highlights on dark or black hair. They can easily turn orange and brassy.



"My hair was auburn. I have been coloring my hair a dark, warm blond for years. I have liked it even though I have olive skin and brown eyes. I have always used light ash blond to achieve my color. My husband wanted me to go lighter, so I added two powder packets in the box. My hair is now bright yellow/orange. It looks horrible. What can I do? Help!"  -Ann


Call your hair salon for an emergency appointment right now! The powder packets you used are bleach activators to color hair blond like Madonna's or Marilyn Monroe's. It will take a skilled professional to properly tone your hair back to a believable color. The lesson learned here is always read instructions thoroughly before you begin any at-home coloring process.