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Hair + Beauty

What Redheads Should Know About Under Eye Eczema

Stop the flare ups!

Eczema is very common during the fall and winter months. When the air gets cool, your skin might start to get dry, itchy, red, and flakey. If you’re suffering from eczema, especially under your eyes or on your eyelids, here are a few do’s and don’ts to keep it under wraps.

DO: Hydrate the dry skin

If your skin is dry, itchy, or irritated it’s important to keep it hydrated while treating your eczema. Letting the skin dry out too much may lead to further irritation. Use an unscented moisturizer that is safe for sensitive skin as well as an under-eye cream intended for eczema treatment. If your eczema is severe, use a medicated cream. 

DON’T: Use harsh exfoliants 

It can be tempting to exfoliate off all the dead, dry skin, but exfoliating the area will only lead to further irritation. Avoid using harsh exfoliants and let the area heal fully before getting rid of excess dead skin. 

DO: Use a primer when applying makeup

You should avoid wearing makeup during an eczema flare-up, but if your eczema is mild or at bay, you will want to apply a primer before applying your makeup. Not only will it help to even out the area, but it will also help to keep the area free of makeup that could irritate the skin. Use a primer you know your skin reacts well to that is low in chemicals and fragrance-free. 

READ: How And Why Redheads Should Apply a Primer Before Makeup

DON’T: Rub, itch, or pick at dry skin

Try to avoid touching your eczema spots as much as possible. Picking at, itching, or rubbing the skin will only get it dirty and cause further irritation. Touch the skin only when applying the product and always wash your hands thoroughly.

DO: Consult a dermatologist

Mild eczema can be treated at home, but if you have severe eczema or you’re not getting relief from your eczema, consult a dermatologist. They can help you figure out the best course of action to take and find the right products for your skin, including medicated products to give you relief faster. 

READ: 5 Things Every Redhead Should Know When Visiting a Dermatologist

DON’T: Wash your face with hot water

Hot water can cause the skin to become dry and since your eczema is already dry, you want to avoid further irritation. Wash your face with lukewarm water and avoid excess heat on your face. 

Rock it like a Redhead! 

Featured Post

How Redheads Can Treat Signs of Aging on Your Neck, Chest & Hands

Here's how to combat aging:

We all know that our faces can show early signs of aging through wrinkles, fine lines, and sunspots, but your neck, chest, and hands can also be affected very easily. Here are a few ways to prevent signs of aging in those areas before it’s too late: 

READ: Do Redheads Look Younger? Study Says They’re More Likely To Age Slower

1. Moisturize daily

One of the easiest ways to prevent signs of aging is to keep your skin moisturized. Hydrated skin stays soft and plump, while dry skin cracks and gets dull. Use a heavy moisturizer at night and a lighter one during the day and make sure to use it every single day. Reapply your moisturizer to your hands after washing.

2. Use anti-aging skin products 

Serums and other products with anti-aging properties are a great way to prevent signs of aging before you even see them. Don’t wait until you start to see wrinkles or creases to incorporate these products into your routine. One place that people forget to use anti-aging products is their hands, so lather up!

READ: 10 Essential Fall Skincare Products For Redheads

3. Turn down the water temperature 

Excess hot water can dry out the skin and cause redness, irritation, and broken blood vessels. Turn the water down when showering and always moisturize afterward. 

4. Wear SPF all year long 

Keeping yourself protected from the sun is extremely important when it comes to preventing signs of aging. Skin damage can happen all year round whenever you are exposed to UV rays, so apply sunscreen daily under your makeup and on your neck and chest. Use a hand moisturizer with SPF after washing, or wear gloves while driving during the day. 

READ: Redheads: Do We Really Need SPF Year-Round?

5. Use additional sun protection

SPF products are great, but sometimes they wash off, wear off, or just don’t give you enough protection. Add an extra layer of sun protection by covering your skin up when exposed to UV rays.

READ: Breathable Autumn Looks To (Still) Keep Redheads Protected from The Sun

6. Stay hydrated

Skin hydration starts from the inside, so make sure you are drinking plenty of water each day. Your intake should increase when you are exercising or producing sweat. 

Rock it like a Redhead! 

Featured Post

So, You Want to Get Bangs? Here’s What Redheads Need to Know

Looking to Make a Change in Your Hair?

If you’re looking to change up your red hair, why not try bangs? Bangs look great on all different face shapes and there are lots of styles to choose from. Here’s some bang inspiration for your next haircut:

Curtain bangs

If you’re not totally sold on bangs, try out curtain bangs. They are longer, face-framing pieces that can easily be tucked behind the ear, curled into the rest of your hair, or left out. 

READ: 8 Fall Hairstyle Trends All Redheads Can Rock

Wispy bangs

Similar to curtain bangs, wispy bangs aren’t too much of a commitment. They are usually less full and more soft allowing you to either wear them forward or push them back away from the face a bit. 

Full bangs

If you’re ready to rock bangs, a full bang might be for you. These bangs typically end right at the eyebrow and are full enough to cover most of if not all of the forehead. They can be worn straight down or parted slightly. 

Micro bangs

If you already know you love bangs, but want something a little edgier, try a micro bang. This length is cut above the eyebrow giving you teeny tiny bangs while still showing some of your forehead. 

Side bangs

Ultra popular in the 2000s, side bangs are a great way to have bangs without all the commitment. Some longer bangs can even be pushed into side bangs with the right part. 

Curly bangs

It might feel daunting to add bangs to curly hair, but it can help frame the face and give you some added dimension to your hair. Opt for a more shaggy, wispy bang look and you’ll be golden!

Rock it like a Redhead! 

Featured Post

6 Best DIY Skincare Recipe Hacks for Redheads

DIY Your Way to Gorgeous Skin

At-home DIY skincare is a fun way to unwind and pamper your redhead self a little. The great thing about at-home skincare is it’s pretty natural, free of chemicals, and safe for sensitive skin. Here are 7 of our favorite redhead-friendly home skincare tips! 

1. Use oatmeal as a face cleanser

That’s right, you can use your favorite breakfast food to cleanse your face! You’ll want to blend or grind up some whole oats until they form a powder, then mix with warm water until you have a paste, and voila! You’ve got yourself an all-natural cleanser. 

READ: 4 DIY Beauty Tips Every Redhead Should Know

‘Redhead Friendly’ oatmeal: Bob’s Red Mill Oatmeal

2. Use sugar for exfoliating

Sugar has been used as a natural exfoliator for years. Opt for brown sugar for your face and white sugar for less sensitive skin like your hands and lips. Simply mix with your favorite oil, we suggest coconut, olive oil, or vitamin E oil. Then use it as your regular exfoliant and wash it off with warm water. 

‘Redhead Friendly’ Sugar: Wholesome Organic Sugar

3. Use green tea for glowing skin

Create a green tea mask to help reduce redness and inflammation. Mix together equal parts steeped green tea, honey, and baking soda to create a mask. Once it’s formed a paste, apply to the face and allow it to sit for up to 15 mins. Rinse off with warm water. 

‘Redhead Friendly’ Green Tea: Numi Organic Tea Gunpowder Green

4. Use coconut oil or olive oil for extra moisturizer

Mix a little bit of one of these oils into your daily moisturizer for an extra boost of hydration. Use sparingly and don’t apply these oils more than once a week. 

‘Redhead Friendly’ Coconut Oil + EVOO: Nutiva Organic Cold-Pressed Virgin Coconut Oil and Bragg Extra Virgin Olive Oil 

5. Use yogurt for a face mask

Mix 1/2 cup plain yogurt, 1 tsp. honey, and 1/2 tsp. of ground turmeric for a soothing mask that will help reduce redness and swelling as well as help combat excess oils in the skin. Be sure to wash off thoroughly, as turmeric can lightly stain the skin. 

‘Redhead Friendly’ Yogurt: Stonyfield Organic 100 Percent Grassfed Plain Greek Yogurt

6. Use vinegar on your cuticles

Vinegar will soften your cuticles and help to reduce excess oils. Soak a cotton ball or pad in apple cider vinegar and apply to your cuticles. You can use this method before painting your nails to remove dirt and oils and help polish adhere better.

‘Redhead Friendly’ Vinegar: Lucy’s Family Owned – Natural Distilled White Vinegar

Rock it like a Redhead! 

Featured Post

Top 4 Reasons to Love & Celebrate Your Beautiful Freckles

Red hair and freckles rock!

As redheads, we’ve heard a million jokes and jabs about our freckles. They’ve also come and gone as a trend over the years. Remember when it was super trendy to draw them on!

Well, we think freckles are pretty cool and there are so many reasons to celebrate your beautiful freckles. Here are 4 top reasons: 

1. They give you some color 

Most redheads have quite fair skin. When you have fair skin and freckles, it makes your skin look less ghostly and more natural. It provides you with some color and depth. For many redheads, the majority of their skin’s melanin is in their freckles. 

READ: How Redheads Can Get a ‘Healthy Glow’ Without UV Tanning

2. They can hide imperfections 

Got a small pimple, a scar, or a slightly uneven skin tone? Freckles are nature’s concealer. On those without freckles, a skin imperfection might stand out. Freckles help to conceal any minor “flaws” in your skin. 

READ: 5 Makeup Tips Every Redhead With Freckles Should Know

3. They help you look youthful

Freckles are something that people often get in the summertime when they are younger but not when they are older. Having freckles all the time can help you appear to be more youthful than you are. 

READ: Do Redheads Age Better? 

4. They make you unique

Like snowflakes, no two freckles are the same, which means no two redheads are the same. They make you unique and that alone makes them beautiful and worth having. Don’t forget to wear your SPF, but enjoy the sun and enjoy your freckles because they are special. 

READ: 7 Unique Facts About Redheads

Here are some special photos to celebrate the uniqueness of freckles:

Rock it like a Redhead! 

 

Featured Post

5 Redhead Skincare Myths, Debunked

Skincare Myths Busted!

There are a lot of myths when it comes to redhead skincare, and we’re here to debunk some of the ones that affect redhead the most. 

MYTH: Redheads only need sunscreen while outdoors on a sunny day

While it’s extremely important to wear sunscreen while outdoors on a sunny day, it’s far from the only time you need it. To reduce sun damage and the chances of skin cancer, sunscreen should be worn anytime there is exposure to UV rays. This includes cloudy days, sunny winter days, and indoors where there is natural light. Skin damage can also be caused by the use of screens like phones, computers, and iPads, so it’s best to just incorporate SPF into your daily skincare routine regardless of what you’re doing that day.

MYTH: Redheads with oily skin can’t use facial oils

Lots of people think that if you have oily skin you shouldn’t use oils on your face. While you don’t want to use oil-based moisturizers or oil-based makeups, it is okay to use facial oils sparingly. The oils that come from your skin naturally and the oils you apply to your skin for skincare are different. Facial oil products have nutrients and benefits to offer your skin that your natural oils do not. 

READ: 4 Tips on Incorporating A Facial Oil Into Your Redhead Skincare Routine

MYTH: You can’t exfoliate sensitive redhead skin

Having sensitive redhead skin doesn’t mean you can’t exfoliate, it just means you have to be gentle and mindful of the products you’re using. Select an exfoliant that is dermatologist recommended for sensitive skin, and only exfoliate 1-2 times per week. 

READ: How to Exfoliate Super Sensitive Skin

MYTH: Shaving makes hair grow back faster

The rate at which your hair grows is determined by the chemical makeup of your body and your hair follicles. A low-quality razor may cause you to think the hair has grown back quickly, but in reality, you probably just didn’t get as close of a shave as you thought you did. 

MYTH: Freckles are a form of sun damage

The argument of whether freckles are sun damage has been happening for ages. This is because people are not born with freckles. Freckles do appear as a result of exposure to UV rays but they are not considered sun damage. This is because freckles actually serve a purpose. People with low melanin get freckles as part of their body’s response to protecting them from the sun. 

READ: Why Do Freckles Come Out in the Sun?

Rock it like a Redhead! 

Hair + Beauty

How to Donate Your Red Hair

Give Someone Else the Joy of Being a Redhead

If you’re thinking of chopping your red hair, consider donating it! Hair donations are used to make wigs for those with cancer and other health conditions that cause them to lose or have to cut their hair. Your hair is just going to end up in the trash anyway, so why not let someone else enjoy the wonders of being a redhead. 

Here are common questions and answers:

What type of hair is accepted? 

Every donation program has different rules, but most hair donation organizations will only take healthy hair that is not color-treated. Check the specific guidelines for the organization you want to donate to. 

How long does your hair have to be?

Different organizations also have different regulations on the length of hair needed. The minimum is typically 12 inches. You may be able to find some organizations that take donations as short as 8-10 inches, so keep looking around or grow your hair out some more if you want to donate. 

Should I tell my stylist?

When you’re ready to cut your hair, print out the guidelines for your stylist and be sure to tell them you want to donate it before they start cutting. Hair that’s being donated usually has to be bound with hair ties in ponytails to be accepted. Bring along a large ziplock to put your hair in once you are done. Some salons might have a donation program where they can mail it off for you, otherwise, you will bring it home and package it to be mailed out to the organization.

Where can I donate? 

There are lots of organizations that you can donate your hair to. The one you select might depend on how much hair you have, if it’s been dyed and who you want the hair to go to. A few of the most popular organizations include Wigs for Kids, Locks of Love, and Children with Hair Loss.

Rock it like a Redhead! 

Hair + Beauty

10 ‘Redhead Friendly’ Self-Tanners We’re Loving This Winter

Get a subtle glow without damaging your skin

Self-tanners can either be a must-have or an absolute no for redheads. It really comes down to a redhead’s personal preference. Over the years, I’ve learned to drop the self-tanner and embrace my fair, freckled skin. I absolutely love my skin and freckles.

But, sometimes I must admit it does feel great to have a little glow with the help from a few ‘Redhead Friendly’ approved self-tanners. Whether it’s applying a little bit before the weekend begins or setting a tanning schedule a few days before a big trip, I’ve learned to adjust the color necessary to make it as natural as possible.

To save you time on trying a ton of different tanning products only to wake up and see streaky, orange spots, the H2BAR beauty team has compiled a list of our favorite 2021 ‘Redhead Friendly’ self-tanners. Scroll below to find the perfect one for you:

READ: How to Keep Your Summer Glow Through Fall – Even If It’s Just More Freckles!

Mousse 

Tanning mousse is weightless, water-based, and easy to apply. They help moisturize your skin and have you glowing by morning! You can also opt for an ‘express’ product (a quicker processing mousse) if you’re on a time crunch. Be sure to read the processing time on the bottle to ensure you rinse the product off at the proper time!

1. Mystic Tan Overnight Moisturizer Self-Tan Water Mousse (Featured in the February Monthly H2BAR Box!)

$27

2. Bondi Sands Self Tanning Foam

 

$24

3. St. Tropez Self Tan Classic Bronzing Mousse 

 

$42

 

4. Tanologist Express Tan Mousse

Gradual Tanning

Gradual tanning products are great for redheads who really want to control the shade of their tan over time. Use a self-tanning moisturizer in place of your daily body lotion until you reach your desired shade, or try adding drops of a self-tanning serum to your favorite moisturizer to control the added glow!

7. Jergens Natural Glow + FIRMING Self Tanner

$9

8. Isle of Paradise Self Tanning Color Drops

$30

9. Tan-Luxe Super Glow Hyaluronic Self-Tan Serum

 

$50

For on-the-go

The perfect travel companion! Pack these easy-to-pack towels and you’ll never go a day without a glow.

10. TanTowel Self Tan Towelette Classic (This product has been in a few summer H2BAR beauty boxes – we love it!)

$24

 

Rock it like a Redhead! 

Hair + Beauty

5 Things To Consider Before Getting Your Red Hair Thinned Out

Lighten the load but do your research:

Updated: November 2nd, 2023

Did you know that redheads actually have fewer strands of hair on their heads than blondes or brunettes? But why doesn’t it feel like it? Most redheads have pretty thick hair, and that’s because their hair strands are actually thicker than other colors.

If you’ve got thick red hair, it might feel like it’s weighing you down. Some might opt for a big chop, but there is another way to get your hair to feel lighter without losing length — it’s called hair thinning with sheer scissors. Here’s everything you need to know about getting your red hair thinned: 

1. It might alter your cut

While getting your hair thinned doesn’t necessarily mean losing length, it could alter the way your current haircut looks. The best time to get your hair thinned is when you’re already getting it cut into a new style. This allows your stylist to work the thinning into the cut and avoid a drastically different look. 

2. You might need to wash it more often 

One of the upsides to super thick hair is it usually means you can go longer between washes. When your hair is thinned, you might find you need to wash it more frequently, but you’ll use less product each time so it really all evens out.

3. Thinner hair = easier styling

Because redheads usually have overly thick hair, thinning will help you bring it back to a more manageable level. You want to keep your volume and body without having your hair be too thick and heavy for styling. It will probably take some getting used to but soon you’ll be a wiz at styling your red hair in less time than before!

4. It cuts down on drying time 

Thick hair takes ages to dry, especially if it’s long. Having thinner hair will allow you to cut down on the time it takes to blow dry it. You might even be able to let your hair dry without heat which is healthier overall. When drying your hair opt to use a microfiber towel! Introducing the How to be a Redhead Soft Microfiber Hair Towel for Redheads. Because wet hair is at its most vulnerable, this custom microfiber towel gently and carefully absorbs moisture from your red hair and dries it quickly, all while protecting it from stretching and breakage. This design is uniquely shaped to wrap all of your hair securely (no matter the length), with an elastic strap to comfortably keep things in place. Your hair journey starts here, redheads.

5. Getting your hair thinned isn’t for everyone 

Talk with your stylist before getting your hair thinned. Discussing your hair goals and likes and dislikes will help you decide if having your red hair thinned is right for you. 

If you are looking for a way to keep your red hair shiny and healthy, look no further:

Finally Glossy® Shine & Luminosity Shampoo for Redheads

It took many years to custom-make the Finally Glossy® formula and we’re so excited for redheads to enjoy it. We’re thrilled to release another clean redhead beauty product. It is paraben-free, cruelty-free, sulfate-free, petroleum-free, mineral-oil, and vegan. It also contains no perfume, is free of gluten and is silicone-free, phthalate-free, formaldehyde-free and cocamidopropyl betaine-free. This clean formula is formulated with Vitamin B3, olive oil, coconut oil and green tea.

Rock it like a Redhead!

 

Hair + Beauty

Yes, Your Redhead Beauty Products Expire — This Is How Often You Should Be Replacing Them

When should you toss your makeup? The complete guide for redheads:

Between the samples you get at the store, and makeup you don’t reach for as much, most of us have extra makeup lying around for one reason or another. Sometimes it’s fun to dig old redhead-approved makeup out and try it again, but did you know it might not be wise to use some of those products? Here’s the when-you-should-really-replace-your-makeup guide: 

Mascara: 2-3 months

You’ll probably be surprised by how short the lifespan of mascara is. Professionals actually suggest you replace your mascara every 2-3 months. This is because bacteria from your eye can be living in the wand which leads to a risk of eye infection. This doesn’t apply to unopened mascara, but if you’ve used it once that timer starts.

READ: 5 Cruelty-Free Drugstore Mascaras for Redheads

 

Eyeliner: No longer than 12 months

Although this is also an eye product, eyeliner actually has a longer lifespan than mascara. Professionals suggest you shouldn’t keep them longer than one year. 

READ: 5 ‘Redhead Friendly’ Approved Waterproof Eyeliners

 

Lipstick: No more than a year  

Lipgloss: 6 months

Keep your lipsticks in a cool dry place and they can last upwards of a year. If you notice the consistency is weird, it’s time to throw them away. Lipgloss on the other hand should be swapped out every six months.

READ: The 10 Best Lip Glosses For Redheads That Aren’t Sticky

READ: The Best ‘Redhead Friendly’ Fall Lipstick Colors for 2021

Foundation: Look for the expiration date

Foundation can be kept for anywhere from six months to one year. You can extend the life of your foundation by storing it in a cool dry place and only touching the opening with clean hands. It usually has an expiration date on it, so look for that and also check the consistency. If it’s separated or clumpy, toss it. 

READ: The 13 Best ‘Redhead Friendly’ Drugstore Foundations of 2021

 

Powder Products: 1-2 years

Your powder products like eyeshadow, blush, and bronzer have the longest lifespan with a safe use time of 1-2 years! Just be sure to clean your brushes properly and avoid using your fingers in these types of products. 

READ: 5 Powder Foundations for Redheads

 

There are differing opinions when it comes to how long makeup lasts, and we’ve probably all used makeup that “should” have been thrown out. Keep things clean, check for expiration dates and keep your makeup in a cool dry place (not the bathroom) to extend its life. That being said, now is probably a good time to go through your makeup collection and do a little purge. But that just means you get to buy more!

Rock it like a Redhead!

Featured Post

Red Hair Fading? Try One Of Our Favorite Color-Depositing Conditioners

Get More Vibrant Red Hair!

If you’ve used a color depositing shampoo or conditioner, you know how amazing it can be for making your hair more vibrant. If you’re looking to up your color, try this trick next time using the Overtone Coloring Conditioner in Ginger (featured in last year’s Winter Deluxe H2BAR Box!)

How To Use: Take your color depositing conditioner and apply it to your hair dry. Use gloves to avoid staining your hands, and apply liberally all over your head. Once distributed evenly, pull back in a clip or bun and cover it with a shower cap. Let it sit for 15 to 20 minutes and then wash it out like normal. Your hair will be more vibrant just like that. 

Results may vary if your hair is color-treated or if you have dark hair. This trick is perfect for fading red hair, strawberry blonde hair, or those who want a red hue and already have light hair. If you have blonde streaks (natural or dyed), do not use it. It can turn your hair pink. See more about the process here. 

Watch this redhead up her color: 

@illumitatiana

TRUST THE PROCESS

♬ original sound – illumitati 7

READ: How To Go From Fading Red Hair To Vibrant Hair In 20 Minutes 

Rock it like a Redhead! 

Confidence

7 Fabulous Redheads Over the Age of 50 Who Will Inspire You

You're Never Too Old to Rock the Red

As we get older, our red hair might start to fade, but that doesn’t mean we have to succumb to a life of dull red hair! If your red hair is starting to fade, get inspired by those over 50 who are still rocking their red. 

Ree Drummond

Better known for her cooking show The Pioneer Woman, Drummond was a natural redhead early in life but takes no shame in having some upkeep done to keep her locks red as she gets older. 

Reba McEntire

Our country queen has kept her locks read for decades and it doesn’t seem like she plans to stop anytime soon. Enjoy redhead eyebrow products made for Reba in the H2BAR e-commerce shop! 

Julianne Moore

At 60 years old, actress Julianne Moore is still rocking the red as vibrantly as ever. Her red hair was even inherited by her daughter. 

Molly Ringwald

1980s cult classics star Molly Ringwald is actually a natural brunette, but she’s been rocking the red for most of her life and we think it looks good on her!

Megan Mullally

Will & Grace star Megan Mullally has rocked several shades of faux red throughout the years and continues to do so to this day. 

Rock it like a Redhead! 

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