August is a rough month for hair. Even the people most careful with their hair often find that the summer's sun and elements has wreaked its havoc. Almost all hair is lighter than it should be, a bit drier, and definitely more brittle. Sometimes it tangles more, is more difficult to comb or brush out, and tends to dry frizzy or fly away. It's quite obvious that your hair is in an altered state, but many women enjoy the look of their end of summer hair. I find that many women will overuse self tanners, wear more makeup, or do whatever it takes to wear their summer hair color and style as long as possible. I always have the sinking feeling at this time of year that women are avoiding me because they don't want me to tell them to trim or tone down their hair. This never fails to amuse me. I always think of hair as a fashion and beauty accessory that you should always have fun with and enjoy. Your hair grows every day. It is ever changing. Your hair cut and color are for right now, not forever.

Now that we are approaching the beginning of September, it is time to rethink your hair. What looked golden, vibrant and sun kissed midsummer can look brassy, dried out and brittle by Labor Day. There are some simple steps you can take to make the summer/fall hair transition as graceful as possible.

STEP 1: I know most women want their hair long, especially in the summer, but it is probably time to get a trim. The ends of your hair are the most porous. Exposure to the sun and elements makes them dry and brittle. This makes a hair cut essential to restoring the condition of your hair.

STEP 2: Reduce the amount of coloring on your re-growth. The bright color you loved this summer probably will start to give you a washed out look by Labor Day. When you do color your hair you should make it a bit darker. If this is more than you can bear, at least touch up the root with a more subtle color. The color of the rest of your hair will look more appropriate once you have depth at the base or roots of your hair.

Over the years I have worked with some of the best hair dressers in the world. I mean world-class professionals. You know, those people who make the women on the covers of Vogue and Bazaar look so effortlessly glamorous. I am endlessly impressed with their talent. I am often left speechless as I watch them morph the models' hair from style to style. Of course, you would expect these hair mavens to have magic in their hands.

What really surprises me, however, is the seemly God-given ability for almost any woman with long hair to painlessly mimic the most complicated hairstyle. Braids, up-dos and variations of the partial up-do are extremely popular hairstyles, especially in the summer. I have often stared in awe as I watched long-haired women carry on conversations with other salon clients, never even peeking in the mirror as they twist, turn and tuck their hair in place. I am humbled by their talent as they finish their hair in minutes and run out the door looking great. If I say anything about their ability to whip their hair into shape, they simply laugh and thank me for the compliment.

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After seeing woman after woman put her hair up in just moments, I realized it must be easier to do than it looks. I talked to Lena, one of the salon's top stylists, and asked her for the lowdown of simple and effortless long hairstyles that I can't help but notice every day in the salon and on the street. She agreed that they are easy for almost anyone to do and gave me a quick demo on three models.

THE HIDDEN BRAID

1. Lift a section of your hair from the crown and clip it out of the way.


2. Place a braid on each side of your head to lift hair up and off your face. Join braids in the back and secure with a hair elastic.


3. Release hair that has been secured with clip and let cascade over braids.

THE BRAIDED BUN

1. Part your hair with a side part.


2. Make two mini braids starting at the part and continuing in a slight upward direction. This gives hair a shape that is flattering for most faces.


3. Join braids together into one and continue braid into a ponytail. If hair strands should pop out, don't worry. It will give your hair a more carefree and less serious look.


4. Twist the ponytail braid into a low bun. Accessorize with a flower, a real one if possible. After all, it's summer!

TWIST AND TUCK

1. Start with a low side part.


2. Make a section from the part to just behind your ear.


3. Start to twist and tuck, continuing to add hair as you go around the head.


4. Gather hair together behind your other ear, fasten with pins and fan out ends to create a feathered look.


5. Add a fresh flower or a hair accessory to finish the look.

You don't have to be a hair genius to keep long hair looking great all summer long. All it takes is a twist, a tuck, a few pins and a little imagination. With a little practice, your hair can always look beautiful and like it was done by the pros.

It's a bit ironic that I find myself on a plane to London on July 4th. After all, it is the day the United States of America declared its independence from England. I'm with my co-workers Leigh Rossini and Natalie Singh. We're crossing the Atlantic to sell our products in the UK. We spend our plane time napping, eating, discussing where we'll be go to dinner in England and even find time to talk about key selling points for products.

We've already determined that I will go back to the hotel after dinner to have an early night's sleep. I have to look good the next day. I'll be on camera and need to look fresh and energetic.

My colleagues have a completely different agenda. They are in the mist of an in-depth conversation about where they'll go after dinner, what they'll wear and, of course, how they will do their hair and makeup. I must admit that their banter holds my attention. I find myself excited about their upcoming evening adventure and happy that I have a genuine excuse to go home early. I know the conversation at breakfast will include stories that will be told, embellished and retold until they become part of salon legend.

Upon landing, we zoom through customs and find ourselves in a taxi headed for our hotel in Knightsbridge. It's already late because of the time change and we are really looking forward to a good dinner. We check into the hotel and agree to meet in the lobby in 15 minutes.

The women look beautiful as they approach the lobby. I immediately notice every one of the quick changes that have transformed them from pretty girls to glamorous women.

Of course they have changed into skimpy summer dresses that they would never wear in the States or at least not with me. I do an instant double take and realize this is just the beginning of their instant makeover. Here are five of their quick glamour fixes.

It's official. Memorial Day has come and gone. Summer is here. This is the season when you want to feel free and breezy. It's probably not unusual for you to walk out the door with your hair still wet, letting it dry naturally. Why spend time blow drying or styling your hair? The humidity will either make it bushy or straight the moment you step outside. It is never more important than now to have the right haircut. Your face shape, hair texture, body shape and lifestyle are the factors that should determine the right haircut for you.

Look in the mirror to determine your face shape:

Square faces look best with layers, waves or curls that soften the angles of the face. Volume is best at the crown, with sleek sides. Side parts are most flattering for people with square faces.

Round faces benefit from hair that is worn in longer styles. It can be worn blunt or with long layers. Side parts create the illusion of a slimmer face shape. Bangs should always be wispy, never blunt.

Heart-shape faces look best with cuts that have more volume at the bottom than the top. Bangs are an easy solution to disguise a prominent forehead and to keep face shape balanced.

Long faces work best with haircuts that create width from the ear to the chin. The chin-length bob is perfect for people with long faces. This haircut will give the illusion of a shorter face.

Let your hair dry naturally to determine its texture. Your hair texture will help you decide on the right haircut. If your hair is fine and straight, do not attempt to wear it long or with styles that require extreme volume. If you have full, curly hair, avoid straight, sleek styles.

Your haircut should always complement your body type. Shorter, shapely women should never look overwhelmed with excessively big or long hair, which will make them look shorter and possibly wider. Don't hate me for saying this, but tall, thin women look good with hair of almost any length. No matter what your height or weight, I always advise that your hair style should be in proportion to your body shape. The right haircut can make you look younger and thinner.

Your lifestyle is key to your hair style. You must always take into consideration the amount of time you have to keep up your look. Pick the haircut that works with your lifestyle. Trying to have a hair style that you don't have the time to maintain is futile.

Summer is here. Kick back and relax. Pick a haircut that works for you and your hair. Your hair will look great all summer long.

I know it's still spring, but it's starting to feel like summer. Thoughts of summer evoke visions of sun-kissed hair that gently blows in a warm breeze.

The truth of the matter is that summer sun can be as rough on your hair as it is on your skin. Overexposure to summer sun can cause weak, dry, brittle hair that often turns to a faded or brassy color. Being aware of what the sun can do and being proactive to preserve and protect your hair is the first step to keeping it healthy all summer long.

So what can you do now to prepare your hair for summer?  Start with these 5 tips for summer-ready hair.

In addition, peruse magazines for easy summer hair styles. Look for braids, twists and knots that don't require styling tools. Keep your hair coloring gentle to prevent the summer sun from playing havoc on your hair. Thinking ahead will help to guarantee great looking hair all summer long.

May is here and it's the beginning of the wedding season. Your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life. It is the day that you publicly commit your love to another person for the rest of your life. It is also the day that you are the star, whether your wedding party includes you and your groom or 300 of your nearest, dearest and absolutely must-invites.

Being the bride and having all eyes on you can be a lot of pressure, but it is also one of your all-time greatest days. It just takes planning and preparation to ensure you'll have the wedding of your dreams. Here is a simple schedule to help you feel confident, relaxed and beautiful on the day of your wedding.

THREE MONTHS BEFORE

All brides should schedule trial appointments for makeup and hair. Be sure to bring your veil or other accessories. These appointments assure that you, your hairdresser and makeup artist share the same vision of your wedding-day look and help guarantee you'll have no surprises on the big day.

NOTE: Be sure that the hairdresser you choose for the trial appointment will be available on the day of your wedding. Hairdressers take vacations, too!

Every woman wants to glow on her wedding day. Sometimes this glow must be helped along with a few facials. Sign up for a series of gentle facial treatments about every four weeks. The last facial should be scheduled two weeks before your wedding day barring any last-minute break out.

Some brides think about radical changes in hair style or color before their wedding day. This is probably not the best idea. It is better to fine-tune your look now and wait until after the wedding to make more dramatic changes. I do think this is the perfect time to make your hair color a little bit brighter and richer with a few extra highlights or by adding a bit more zip to your overall color.

NOTE:: Your last touch-up should occur two weeks to 10 days before your wedding day. No hair color changes should occur on the last touch-up.

Summer is right around the corner. I'm already dreaming of those warm sunny days. Sounds good, right? No? Oh, you're still fighting to lose the extra pounds you put on this lazy winter?

Not to worry! There is no reason to be nervous if you are still holding on to your winter weight  Your hair can help create the illusion that you spent the long cold winter sprinting on the treadmill.

If this sounds too good to be true, you don't realize what the right haircut, color and style can do for you.

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Check out my tips for looking younger and thinner with the right hairstyle. It's simple!

When you have been in the hair business as long as I have, you can't help but notice how people cut, color and style their hair. The moment I meet someone, my eyes go directly to the top of their head. It's a horrible habit that makes almost everyone uncomfortable, and I've tried to stop doing it for years to no avail. My eyes are especially drawn to any hair faux pas. There is nothing more frustrating than having to bite my lip instead of giving a hair tip. It often takes every inch of my self control to keep my lip zipped.

Here is a list of the most common hair faux pas I have tried not to notice over the years.

Picking the wrong haircut and style for your hair's texture. Wearing fine hair too long or layered will only make it seem wispier and see-through. Wearing curly hair straight often looks dry, fried and tortured in place.

TIP: Always work with the texture of your hair. You're not fooling anyone but yourself.


Picking the wrong hair color. There's a rumor out there that you have to make your hair color lighter as the years go by. Guess what? That's not always true! Often the best solution to avoid dull hair color is to make it brighter or richer.

TIP: Your hair color should always provide contrast to your skin color. If you find your self putting on more makeup than usual to look alive, you have picked the wrong hair color.


Making clean hair look dirty by misusing products. This is so five years ago. Hair today looks fresh, clean and natural. It should never look over-gelled, moussed or waxed into place. Hair should never look like it's made of shiny plastic.

TIP: Less is more. If you can't run your fingers through your hair, you have used too much product.


Highlighting hair to look solid or worst yet, frosted. There are two common highlighting mistakes.

The first is when too many highlights are placed too close together, creating a loss of contrast and often resembling an overall, single-process color. This will result in an unnatural looking color that requires frequent touch-ups instead of the graceful grow out that highlights should provide.

The second mistake is when highlights are left on too long to avoid gold shades. Highlights without gold often appear grey and frosted. This will make your hair look dull and you look older.

TIP: Never place your highlights too close together or make them too pale. Highlights should accent and brighten your base color, not change it or make it dull.


Using scrunches, butterfly clips and banana clips as hair accessories. They are tools to keep your hair off your face. They are appropriate to use while washing your face, applying makeup or giving yourself a facial. As easy and gentle as these are to use, they should never be worn outside your home.

TIP: There are many simple and chic accessories available at your local drugstore or beauty supply. Look for the simplest headbands or covered elastics. They are gentle to your hair and always look right.


That's it! You now have the list of my Top Five hair faux pas. The good news is that they are all easy to remedy. With very little effort you can look prettier, softer and younger!

Last Friday's "Ambush Makeover" was my all-time favorite on the "Today Show." It was never so easy or obvious to choose the makeovers. The candidates were so excited at the prospect of being picked that they were jumping out of their skins. Their enthusiasm was infectious.

The crowd at the plaza was cheering in unison for the potential makeovers. They were woman who were happy with their lives and themselves. They wanted to look on the outside how they felt on the inside. I spotted them instantly and made a bee-line in their direction.

First I met Jackie. Jackie has two teen-age children and a 22-month-old baby. Jackie obviously spent hours making an elaborate sign that I could not miss. She had no idea what to do with her hair so she just kept growing it longer and longer. Her daughter colored her hair but she had a tendency to miss a few spots. Jackie was a woman in need. She had gotten up at two in the morning to secure her place in the front row of the plaza crowd. She had more energy than the entire high school group that was standing next to her. I had no choice but to pick Jackie as my "Ambush Makeover."

Debbie was stationed at the other side of the plaza. Debbie and her friends acted like cheerleaders whose team was a point away from winning the championship. They got the whole crowd involved. Simultaneously the entire plaza was shouting at the top of their lungs, "AMBUSH, AMBUSH, AMBUSH...." It worked! I instantly ran over to meet Debbie. She was perfect. Her hair color was faded and she desperately needed a style. Debbie owns an entertainment center and works 24/7. She has paid no attention to her appearance for years. I had found my second makeover.

Arsen started with the haircuts as Enid 'O simultaneously prepped both ladies' skin with primers for their makeup applications. Arsen cut Jackie's hair into a layered bob and trimmed Debbie's hair into a super chic straight bob. Enid kept the makeup soft, pretty and natural.

As soon as the basic haircuts were done, I started the hair color. I liked the warm brown base Jackie's daughter had picked. It worked well with her skin tones. I just wanted to give it a bit more "life" to match Jackie's personality. I added soft golden and amber highlights to the top layers of her hair. This small change had a huge effect on the outcome of her makeover. The highlights added brightness and texture that gave her hair movement.

Botox, fillers and peels, which at one time seemed to be accessible to most everyone, now seem like a fantasy exclusively reserved for the rich and famous. This is the year we are all tightening our financial belts. No one is exempt from the fallout of the financial crisis. Everyone has fewer beauty dollars to spend on maintenance routines. Does this mean we are doomed to looking dull and dreary until the financial markets turn around? The answer is no!

It has never been more important to look our best. Looking good is vital for our self-esteem. Whether you are one of the many looking for employment in this horrible job market or are just trying to put your best face forward, looking good is essential. Your hair color and style can erase years from your looks. Going to your local hair salon is guaranteed to be less expensive than a visit to your dermatologist, and it's a far easier alternative to rejuvenate your appearance. When you take care of your hair and make the right style and color choices, it is simple to create a younger and more vibrant image.

The condition of your hair is key to looking young. Nothing is more aging than dry brittle hair with little or no shine. It is important to maintain a conditioning routine and trim hair as necessary. If you start to notice split ends, it's time for a haircut.

Grey hair is not the only reason to color your hair. Almost all hair color turns dull and ash over time. Adding a pinch of warmth to your color will instantly turn back the hands of time. Remember that ash highlights look more like grey hair than blond and should always be avoided.

Making your hair too light or dark is WRONG! This is one of the most common hair-color mistakes made today. Excessively light hair will drain the color from your face and give you a washed-out look. Hair that is colored too dark will make you appear tired and haggard. It is best to stay within two shades of your natural hair color.

Whether long or short, layered hair gives you a younger look. Face-framing layers will emphasize your good features while disguising age-revealing features. It is essential to keep layers at proper length to maintain a youthful appearance.

Bangs can hide a multitude of sins. The easiest way to disguise those first annoying brow lines is to wear bangs. Remember that bangs can be cut blunt or in a delicate fringe. They can be worn straight down or to the side. It is important to pick the right bangs for your face shape and facial features. Your hairdresser will help you make the right choice.

Looking young doesn't have to cost a fortune. Having the right cut and color will make you appear years younger. It truly is the quick fix that works. Make your hair salon appointments today.

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Standing behind the chair doing color for many more years than I care to admit, I have heard about hundreds of hair myths. Most myths were handed down through the generations from grandmother to mother to daughter. Some of these are based on fact, others contain half-truths and many are total fiction. Many rational people hold these hair myths to be true even if they make absolutely no sense. I wrote a previous blog entry addressing some of the most common hair myths. Today we will examine 10 common beauty myths and determine whether they're fact or fiction.

MYTH: Never shampoo your hair right before you have it colored.

FACT: When your hair is dirty it is harder for the colorist to determine the exact color of your hair, whether it has oxidized, and if subtle changes might have occurred during the course of the touch-up. Clean hair enables your colorist to have a clearer picture of the proper adjustments that need to occur to keep your color perfect. Hair color also takes better on clean hair. If you do have a sensitive scalp and are worried about a reaction to the coloring process, gently wash your hair. Do not scrub your scalp.


MYTH: Your hair can get used to shampoos and conditioners.

FACT: Shampoos and conditioners tend either to either be light and clean or heavy and conditioning. If you use one product line exclusively, your hair can become overly clean and fly away or excessively conditioned and weighted down. It is best to have a couple of different hair care lines in your shower so you will always be prepared for your hair needs.


MYTH: Lemons lighten your hair.

FACT: Lemon juice will minimally lighten your hair, but only if you go out in the sun. Lemons will lighten fine hair best. If your hair is a light brown shade or darker, lemons can turn your hair orange. Instead of lemons, it is best to use over-the-counter hair color. Hair color contains toners and conditioners that will consistently keep your color in check and hair in great condition.


MYTH: Beer adds body and shine.

FACT: Warm flat beer in a spray bottle is a great setting lotion that adds shine. The scent of beer dissipates as the hair dries, leaving you with a smooth and glossy finish.

I received a call last week from Nancy Meyers, an old friend and a hugely successful writer/director. Nancy's previous films include "Father of the Bride," "Parent Trap," "Something's Gotta Give" and, most recently, "Holiday." She asked me if I could color the hair of a young actress name Zoe Kazan for her newest project. I immediately said yes. Nancy has one of the best eyes in the business. She always makes sure that every detail is picture perfect. It would be my honor and privilege to work with her.

Then Nancy told me the rest of the story. Zoe co-starred in "Revolutionary Road." She played the young woman who had an affair with Leonardo DiCaprio's character. "By the way," Nancy said, "they made her hair black for the film. Now I need her to look like the daughter of Meryl Streep and Alec Baldwin."

My heart nearly stopped beating. Removing black tint is technically the most difficult hair color problem. It's relatively easy to go darker if hair becomes too light, but lifting hair that is colored almost black is nearly impossible. I told Nancy I would do my best as I looked around for my good luck charms.

Zoe came to the salon for her appointment a few days later. In walked this beautiful girl with the bluest eyes and a radiant smile. As we talked, I immediately realized this soft-spoken young woman has a kind soul. I was instantly smitten. I had to make this near-impossible hair color change and still maintain the condition of her hair. I wanted to please both Zoe and Nancy. My job was cut out for me.

The good news was that Zoe's hair was not black. It had faded to a sable brown, which would make my job a little easier. I started the process by removing some of the dark brown color with a gentle hair lightener. It didn't do much, but it did take the edge off the color. I then highlighted Zoe's hair. The highlights looked good but her hair was still dark. I highlighted it two or three times the first day. I saw her twice more in the next couple of days. Finally, after many hours and a huge test of Zoe's patience, we ended up with the right color. She was pleased with the results. I could not take the smile off my face for the rest of the week.

I made this dramatic color change for Zoe, but I would not recommend such a radical change for most women who find themselves in a similar situation. It is much too invasive to the hair and the risk of hair damage and breakage is high. The hair must be treated with tender loving care for months after this extreme coloring.

This is one hair color process that you should never attempt to do at home. Have it done only by a professional, and don't expect results overnight. To maintain the integrity of your hair's condition, the changes must occur slowly. A haircut is a perfect way to accelerate the lightening process. Having your hair cut will eliminate some of the excessively dark hair and will trim any damage that might occur in the coloring process. Deep conditioning treatments with heat will remove some color while maintaining the quality of your hair. You can and should condition your hair as frequently as possible.

This hair color problem takes time and patience to resolve. There is no quick fix. Find a good colorist, get a haircut, and condition your hair. Have faith! Your hair color will return. In the meantime, catch up on some Nancy Meyers or Zoe Kazan films!

It was 7:54 Sunday night. I was anxiously sitting in the back of a taxi in New York City traffic. I contemplated paying the driver and running the rest of the way home. The Screen Actors Guild Award Show was starting in minutes and I didn't want to miss one coiffed star. The traffic finally cleared and the taxi sped forward. I reached into my pocket to pay the driver as we pulled up in front of my building. I got out, ran into my apartment, threw off my coat, and reached for the TV remote in one movement. I sank into my sofa as the show began.

At first glance I thought it was going to be a repeat of the glamorous Golden Globes, but as the camera scanned the audience, I realized it was going to be an evening of hits and near misses. Don't get me wrong: I thought everyone looked great. I just felt that some of Hollywood's finest needed some fine tuning to look their best.

The first woman I noticed was Eva Longoria Parker. She had her hair highlighted since we saw her last at the Globes. I think it would have looked prettier if she had just softened the color with a single process. Her highlights looked brassy and it made her skin appear a bit sallow.

TIP: To look your best, make sure your hair color always provides contrast with your complexion.

Next I noticed Anne Hathaway. Her color looked beautiful, but her wavy bob had lost its oomph. As the evening progressed, her hair became straighter and straighter. I think she was trying to keep it loose and modern, but the style fell apart.

TIP: Using the right strength hair product will maintain your hairstyle without making it look forced into place.

By the way, Anne Hathaway's bob was the most popular short hairstyle of the night. Tina Fey, Viola Davis and Taraji P. Henson all sported similar styles. To keep with the trend, Terri Hatcher even pinned her long hair up and under to create a faux bob.


Evan Rachel Wood's hair, with its side part and soft waves, personified glamor. Her makeup was perfect. But she seemed to have forgotten a major part of her beauty regime -- she forgot to have her hair colored. She had roots. I know Madonna made roots fashionable, but if you are trying to look truly glamorous, roots don't work.

TIP: If it's too soon for your regular touch-up and you're going to a special event, color your hair around your face and part. This partial head touch-up will give your hair a color-perfect look.


Kyra Sedgwick's look was right on the money. She was wearing vintage Chanel with her long waves cascading down her shoulders. Her hair was softly highlighted. She was simply beautiful and elegant. Rosario Dawson also looked beautiful, wearing waves off her face and down her shoulders.

The SAG Awards reinforced the new look of Hollywood glamor. Looking more polished is the biggest trend of the New Year. Remember everyone can look glamorous. It just takes a little time and effort.

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My hectic day was over. I was home, had already picked out my suit and tie for the next day's TODAY show segment and was mindlessly watching TV in my favorite old sweats and a tee shirt. Just as I was finally feeling relaxed, my blackberry buzzed on my night table. Being a total "crack"berry addict, I automatically grabbed the phone. It was an email from my sister, Sandy, in Washington, DC. It read as follows:

NEED YOUR ADVICE

Louis, I am emailing you because I am too embarrassed to call. About a week ago I needed to brighten up my look and knew I couldn't get to New York for a while.

I picked up some over-the-counter color (permanent, of course). Needless to say, it turned out terribly. I lost all my beautiful highlights and now my hair has an awful brassy orange tint. You are not going to believe this, but I have tried to fix it using different colors. The color won't move (still has the awful orange tint). Also my hair is now super dry, though I've been using your Instant Deep Conditioner, which helps.

Is there anything I can do now without damaging my hair any more than I already have? Since I can't get to see you in New York for a while, I have to go to someone locally, but I don't even know what I should tell them. Can you help?

Sandy

P.S. I am going to Hawaii in a month and I want to look fabulous!

As I read the email, my stomach turned. My own sister--a phone call away from a VIP appointment at the salon--wrecked her beautifully salon-colored hair with at-home color.

I immediately called her...

Holiday parties always sound like fun... until the day of the event! All of a sudden you realize your schedule is impossibly booked, you're having a bad hair day, and you are stressed. Panic sets in. You wanted to look and feel great for your holiday celebration. You know everyone else is going to look fabulous. You don't feel or look like celebrating. Instead you feel like running home and hiding under the covers. This is usually not an option because holiday parties are almost always work-related or hosted by your nearest and dearest. Attendance is mandatory. This means you have to dig deep into your bag of beauty tricks to give yourself an instant party makeover.

Here are my top five tips for hot holiday hair!

1. Have a mini-makeover kit in your purse. It should include bobby pins, hair elastics, a mini-curling or flat iron, your favorite hair brush, and travel size hair spray and root lift. This kit and a little imagination can transform any casual day 'do into night-time glamor.

2. Don't worry about what you can't see. Focus on the front and top layers of your hair when you have the need for speed. Have you ever had a special night scheduled and your boss just won't let you leave? Often this leaves you with only 15 minutes to get ready for a party that has already started. When your hair looks disheveled from a long day at work, blow dry only the top layers and the hair around your face. This just takes a few minutes and will give you a finished look. I promise no one will notice that your under layers are undone.

3. Take a tip from Madonna. Did you notice how great her hair is looking on the "Sticky and Sweet" tour? Her curls and waves look romantic and chic. This is a perfect hairdo for the holiday season. Use a large barrow curling iron and take 2-inch sections at a 90-degree angle from your head. You can also use electric rollers for a similar effect. Roll the curlers away from your face. Undo the rollers and comb with your fingers.

4. Wear a pony to your party. Pony tails no longer mean you are going to spend the night at home alone eating popcorn while watching an old movie on TV. Beyonce was recently spotted out sporting a pony looking sexy and glamorous. To be party-ready in moments, pull your hair back with your fingers, secure with an elastic, and spray hair in place. The best pony tails are medium to low in height. For a more finished look, twist a small strand of hair around an elastic and pin in place.

5. Work a messy updo.  Ironically, it also the easiest style to do yourself. The messy updo is a favorite of Angelina Jolie, Scarlett Johansson, and many others on Hollywood's A-list. To achieve this look, use a root lift spray and blow dry your head turned upside down. Pull hair up and back in a loose pony tail. Randomly twist, pin, and secure pony to the hair you tied back. Release a few tendrils of hair to frame your face.

By the way, if you are a salon color client, make your appointment today. This is the time of year when every colorist is booked solid. Nothing is worse than getting dressed up and having your roots show. This usually only works if you are Madonna. If it's not possible to see your colorist, use a root touch-up kit. These are easy to use and take only 10 minutes. They come in limited colors so it's easy to pick the right shade for your hair color. If it's not possible to color your hair, avoid straight hair with a definite part. Cover and disguise your roots sporting a hair style with curls or waves.

Party time is here! Don't be nervous if you are not picture perfect. Look around the room. No one really is. Have a good time. The season only happens once a year. Happy holidays!

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What a story! I mean you could not make this stuff up. A little girl from Louisiana starts singing in her local church choir, performs on "Star Search," becomes a Mouseketeer, and her debut album sold more than 20 million copies all before her 18th birthday. Girls wanted to be her, boys lust for her, and men were often embarrassed by the forbidden thoughts she evoked. America was fascinated with Britney Spears. Her romance with boy band heart throb Justin Timberlake seemed to be idyllic and was constant media fodder. She was talented, beautiful, and was the most famous pop star in the world.

Then almost instantly, Britney came unwound. Following her breakup with Justin, the paparazzi went on a feeding frenzy. The tabloids went wild when she kissed Madonna at the 2003 MTV Video Music Awards. She had a well publicized moment with notorious bad boy Colin Farrell and then married high school sweet heart Jason Alexander after a night of parting in Las Vegas. The marriage was annulled within 55 hours. With the ink barely dry on the annulment papers, Brit seemed to be in the mist of a new romance with backup dancer Kevin Federline. There was one problem. Kevin's girlfriend Shar Jackson was expecting their second child momentarily. Shar had the baby and Britney married Kevin. The marriage was in constant turmoil and short lived. When they split, Britney shaved her head, proved to the world that undies were optional, and entered rehab after fighting paparazzi armed with an umbrella. Things where bleak. When Britney lost custody of her children, she finally hit rock bottom. She admitted defeat and declared "game over".

Finally Britney could start her road to recovery. Instead of nights out with Paris and Lindsay there where Britney sightings on tread mills and in dance classes. She was often spotted with her children, taking day trips to parks and playgrounds. Britney was starting to look better in each picture. Gone was the bloated, haggard face. The sparkle in her eyes had returned...and her hair started to look better too!

Britney was not born with the best hair. I suspect her hair has a super fine texture that probably looks see-through without her always present hair extensions. When I watched her documentary "Britney: For the Record," I noticed that at every shoot there was always a full wig on her make up table. Could it be we have never seen Britney in a video with her real hair? I doubt we ever have!

I have never colored Britney's hair, but I would guess it to be a dirty blond color. Her hair is tinted, using a single process, permanent pale gold blond color. The shade not only gives her fine hair added body, it also instantly gives her "star" quality.

Each Plaza Ambush Makeover feels like our first attempt to work our magic. My adrenaline is pumping from the moment I step on the plaza to find the makeovers until the last woman spins around in front of the mirror and sees her new self for the first time. No one notices, but my eyes tear every time the makeover shrieks with joy at her new look.

People always ask me which makeover was my favorite. I always give the same answer: Every makeover is my favorite. Each week I meet wonderful women who have come from all over the United States to have a chance to be "Ambushed." I push myself and my team to the limits. We work fast and furiously. We have to top ourselves each week. We are flying high and without a net.

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The other question I am always asked is "What are my favorite beauty tips?" Everyone wants to know how we make these dramatic transformations week after week. After doing "Ambush Makeover" for over a year, I have made this list of my top ten tips to make looking great easy.

Just a few short years ago the word "green" was never uttered above a whisper in hair salons. The thought of a clients hair turning any shade of this hue would send shivers up the spine of both the hairdresser and client. As the hairdresser would scramble to remedy this horrific situation the client would often have tears welling in her eyes wondering, "Why me?"

Then Al Gore made a movie called "An Inconvenient Truth". The movie won Gore an Oscar and made the rest of the world instantly aware of how our lifestyle was stripping the earth of its natural resources. The word "green" suddenly had a new connotation and became the new buzz word attached to the most savvy products. "Green" was no longer a dirty word in hair salons. Everyone wanted the green experience to be integrated in every part of their life.

No, you don't have to stop styling or coloring your hair to be green. The good news is that there are many simple beauty solutions that are environmentally friendly. Most of them are common sense.

1. Color your hair less frequently by choosing a shade close to your natural color. This will allow your new color to blend with your natural color while avoiding a strong root line.

2. Keep your coloring time short. Unless you are over 20% grey you don't have to leave the color on a full 30 minutes. The color can be left on for 15 minutes and still make your color vibrant and blend away the grey hair.

3. Keep the color off your scalp. Start your color 1/4" off your scalp. Let color develop and then run color through root area for the last 3-5 minutes. This will give the illusion of depth at the roots and allow color to blend with the rest of the hair color.

4. Rinse hair thoroughly after coloring. There is a cleansing agent in all hair color that is activated when wet. This will be sure to rid you scalp of any residual hair color. This is also a great way to prevent stains from hair color on your pillow cases.

5. Save water, save time, look sexy. Don't shampoo everyday unless you have fine, oily hair. Most hair has more body on day two. Place shampoo on roots only and never rinse and repeat.

6. Rinse hair with cold water. Using cold water requires less fuel consumption and decreases pollution. Cold water is refreshing to the scalp and helps to add shine to your hair.

7. Buy large size shampoos and conditioners. This will allow you to refill your small size containers as needed. You will use less plastic and almost always have your favorite shampoo and conditioner on hand.

8. Have a beer with every shampoo. Beer is a great way to add body and shine to your hair. Put your favorite beer in a spray container. After shampooing spray hair with beer and proceed with styling. The smell of beer will dissipate as the hair dries.

9. Chamomile tea is a natural golden blond toner. If your highlights oxidize to frosty ash color you can add gold with chamomile tea. Simply brew a strong tea and let it cool to room temperature. Rinse tea through your hair and style as usual.

10. Beware! Not all natural remedies work. People often ask me if olive oil is a good conditioner for dry hair. Olive oil is heavy and almost impossible to shampoo out of your hair. By the time your hair is clean it will be dryer than it was before your oil treatment. It's much better to use a product especially made to condition your hair.

Being green doesn't mean you have to forget about your pretty self. Looking good and taking care of your self is living green. Be smart! Be beautiful! Go green!

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On Tuesday, November 4 at 11:00pm the world changed. It was announced that Barack Obama would become the 44th president of the United States. Immediately following this announcement the world cheered. Celebrations were held in Chicago's Grant Park, Times Square, and around the globe. People of all ages, genders and races shed tears of happiness. A new era had begun. The first man of color had been elected commander-in-chief. The color lines had become permanently blurred.

For most of my life I have lived on Manhattan's Upper West Side. This is a mostly liberal, multicultural community that has long embraced and nurtured people from around the world - which, for me, makes it one of New York's great attractions. If you walk down almost any street, you find authentic ethnic restaurants, craftsmen making and selling goods indigenous to their native country, and street fairs with merchandise that celebrates each resident's place of origin. People from all corners of the globe readily live next to each other. This is the community where I have spent most of my life and this is how I have viewed the world. As the rest of the world witnessed the celebrations for Obama's victory, they saw people in our country uniting as one. It was very clear that this was one of the most historic moments of our time.

Most people think that you have to be a model, celebrity, movie star, or wealthy Park Avenue matron to be a client at my salons. Nothing could be further from the truth. Though many of these people do pepper our client roster, it also includes housewives, professional women and men, teenagers, boyfriends, girlfriends, and grandmothers. We take pride in our varied clientele. Over the years I have put together a team of specialists to take care of all the different hair types. I asked them for their most important hair tips for all hair types. Here are some of my favorites.

African American hair is the most delicate of all hair types. It demands to be treated with tender loving care. Correct scheduling of chemical services is essential. The gentlest tints must be used for all single process hair coloring and highlights. Frequent shampooing should be avoided. Use conditioner as a shampoo to keep hair fresh and clean.




Caucasian hair comes in many textures. It can be course and curly, wavy, or fine and straight. Curly hair should be cut very short in a definite shape or worn long to weight down the curls. Wavy hair can be cut in any length because it always has body. Straight hair should be cut to flatter your face shape and body proportions. If the ends of your hair look see-through or ragged, you need a trim. The most flattering hair colors are usually within a few shades of your natural color.


Asian hair is the most difficult hair to cut. It is essential to find a master hair cutter. The smallest mistake will be exaggerated because of the hair's straight and smooth texture. Asian hair is often heavy and thick. Layers are a great way to give this kind of hair texture, movement, and body. Asian hair is easy to color. Changing the color is an easy way to make your hair unique to you. It is key that your new color flatters your complexion. Avoid light reddish shades. They will clash with your skin tones and give you a sallow look.


Hispanic hair is similar to Caucasian hair. It comes in many textures and colors. Learn to accept and work with your hair texture. Avoid harsh straightening products, which can be very damaging to your hair. Hair color is a great option for Hispanic women. Be careful not to lighten your hair color to the same tone as your complexion. This can wash out your skin color. If you have to wear more make-up to make your new hair color work then your hair is the wrong color.



Bi-racial hair often has the best features of the combined races. Curls are tempered. Straight hair has movement. Hair color is often unique to the individual. Be sure your cut is appropriate for your texture.






Never has there been a time for people to be more proud of their ethnicity. Whatever your hair texture or color, make it the best it can be. You are the new standard of today's beauty.


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Every day at the salon I see women struggling with their curls. They torture their hair to make it straight. They blow it dry, iron it flat, and then coat it with products to insure that their curls won't return until the next shampoo. They often complain about the time it takes to temper their curls -- usually while proclaiming their love of straight hair. I have no sympathy for these women. They are the lucky few who where born with a built-in body wave. Curly hair is a blessing. It has a chameleon ability to mimic most straight or curly hair styles. When girls with curls are in a hurry, they can shampoo and condition their hair, add a bit of styling gel, and run out the door. They never have to touch their hair or look in a mirror during the day. They know their curly mane looks perfect. Susan Sarandon's curls keep her perpetually young and sexy. Julia Roberts' curls made her the "Pretty Woman" of our time. Debra Messing's curls continue to attract millions of adoring viewers to their TVs. Julia Louist-Dreyfus has some of the best curls in Hollywood. Meg Ryan's tousled curls and waves made her America's sweetheart while Mariah Carey's seduced the world.

Curly hair obviously is beautiful and can easily take on many different looks. You must learn how to accept and live with your curls. Most women attack their curls as though they are the enemy. This is a major mistake that often leads to a frizzy mess. Here are some simple tips to enjoy your hair, curly or straight.

1. A great haircut is essential. You must find a hair cutter who is not intimidated by curly hair. Usually this is a person who has curls themselves. They live with curls and know all the do's and don'ts of curly hair. Remember that longer hair will weigh curls down and shorter hair will release curls, making your cut look fuller. Some layering is always a good idea to prevent curly hair from taking on a triangle shape. This only looked right on Cleopatra.

2. Curly hair is dry hair. This means you're shampooing and conditioning routine is different than that of people with straight hair. You must use moisturizing shampoos and conditioners. Only use your shampoo when you absolutely must. Conditioner used as a shampoo will keep hair clean and not dry it out. Leave the smallest amount of conditioner in your hair when rinsing. This will help to keep hair pliable. Never rub you hair dry. Wrap your head in a super absorbent towel that will blot excess moisture from your hair. This will help to prevent frizz from occurring.