Winter can be tough on a redhead’s sensitive skin and since most of us can’t curl up by a roaring fire and hibernate all winter, it’s imperative to take extra precaution against the cold winter winds (if you live in a super cold region that is!).
1. Mix a couple drops of concealer with your every day moisturizer. This will help you hide any imperfections and prevent chapped skin.
2. Maybelline BabyLips chapstick is super hydrating and adds just the right hint of color. As an added bonus, each color has its own flavor like Cherry or Strawberry Kiwi.
3. I sometimes leave a tube of emergency mascara in my car, but the icy weather can dry out a brand new tube in no time. If your mascara starts to dry out, add a couple of drops of saline contact solution to help revive it. *Safety Tip: Make sure you don’t try and revitalize mascara that’s too old because eye makeup is a breeding ground for nasty bacteria that can be harmful to your eyes.
4. Before you get out of the shower, rub yourself down with a coat of baby oil. It works better than any moisturizer I have found and it leaves your sensitive skin feeling soft and smooth, rather than sticky.
When How to be a Redhead sat down with Glamour’s long-time beauty editor, Felicia Milewicz, she commented on her love for perfume saying, “They say that redheads smell differently! Can you believe that?! When I’m home, I wear a fragrance. It lifts me up and makes me feel so good. I love to smell good things. Redheads usually have drier skin, so always use a bit more perfume so it stays on longer.”
She inspired us to find the perfect “redhead friendly” perfume for this holiday season. That’s when we came across Karine Dubreuil’s, perfumer for L’OCCITANE EN PROVENCE, new fragrance additions to La Collection de Grasse – inspired by her childhood town during Christmas.
The three new scents have joined the collection just in time for the holidays. Each perfume is unique, fresh and full of simplicity. Most importantly, like all L’OCCITANE EN PROVENCE products, the ingredients are all-natural and derive from organic earth elements. The perfumes have been tested on a natural redhead for a minimum of ten days and have been “approved,” meaning sensitive skin will not break out or become irritated.
Take a look at the three beautiful “redhead friendly” perfumes here:
L’OCCITANE EN PROVENCE ‘CEDRE & ORANGER’
L’OCCITANE EN PROVENCE ‘AMBRE SANTAL’
L’OCCITANE EN PROVENCE ‘FLEUR D’OR & ACACIA’
ENTER BELOW AND 3 WINNERS WILL WIN 1 OF THE NEWEST PERFUMES FROM THE L’OCCITANE EN PROVENCE LA COLLECTION DE GRASSE:
Are you always searching for the best beauty products for redheads? Such as the best shampoo, styling products and tips for keeping it healthy and strong. We turned to Thomas Heinz, owner of Thomas Heinz New York, an exclusive and cutting edge hair salon in the Financial District of New York City. He has been the lead stylist for international magazines such as Vogue and has also worked on a number of ad campaigns for major hair care brands such as L’Oreal, John Frieda, Revlon, Wella, Clairol, Schwartzkopf and Pantene.
We sat down with Thomas to get his top hair care tips for redheads.
What advice do you give to natural redheads?
TH: For natural redheads, I recommend a clarifying shampoo every four to five shampoos to keep hair free of product build up (styling products and drugstore shampoo and conditioners can cause this) to maintain its natural vibrancy. However, pigment fades with age and it can be maintained easily by enhancing it with glosses/toners and customized color shampoos and conditioners. Tip: No random drugstore products please, they can result in an unwanted shift in color. Shine enhancing products are always a good choice, too!
What advice do you give to redheads ‘by choice?’
TH: For redheads of choice, clarifying shampoo treatments should be done at the salon (see Niki Moon Salon), since it will remove not only product, but also pigment. It is necessary to remove product build up and unwanted minerals/metals and chlorine etc. from your locks prior to pre-toning/glossing for optimum shiny and vibrant results. We advise our customers to always consult with a colorist first! Also, always use a product line that is 100% color safe and PH appropriate (acidic rather than alkaline). Be very careful not to heat-damage your hair with hair dryers and straighteners since it can damage and “warp” your cuticles. Heat-damaged hair which will result in the pigment washing out since it has no more sealing protection. In addition, use a chemical-free dry shampoo instead of frequently washing your hair. Apply the product on your roots only and nape if needed.
When a redhead ‘by choice’ comes in to see you, what is your advice for them?
TH: I begin with a general consultation to discuss the right shade and tone of red which depends on skin/eye color, clients color history and style. I would then give them product recommendations for specific color care and finish and how to tips. One product recommendation is Long Lasting Beautiful Reds by INOA, an ammonia-free permanent hair color. Also choose a shampoo/conditioner line that will be prevent hair from fading like, Fade-Proof Fluid and Bamboo UV+Color Protection treatment line by Alterna.
What hair trends are the most popular for fall/winter 2013?
TH: This season’s trends include big, luscious curls and waves with lots of body and texture, deconstructed chin-length bobs, short or long hair styled back away from face, simple geometric styles with monochromatic color.
What advice do you give to redheads who want to grow their hair super long?
TH: If the hair is course, I would suggest having it textured. I definitely recommend smoothing treatments to avoid heat damage from hot styling tools such as irons, blow-dryers, gentle shampooing (focus on scalp), regular trims and deep conditioning at salons and or at home via masks and overnight treatments such as Alterna Overnight Rescue Anti-Aging Caviar Crème.
If you’re looking for a quick redhead hairstyle that looks great on all face types, choose a fake bob. Jenny Balding, a Senior Stylist at New York City’s Cutler Salon said, “Looking to do a faux bob? It’s imperative that you can’t see hair pins and hair ties in your beautiful red hair. That’s why it’s essential to have redhead bobby pins and redhead hair ties for this look.”
Want a look like Christina Hendricks’? It’s easy! Follow these five steps:
1. Prep your hair with a dry shampoo throughout and lightly mist with hairspray. This will give your hair the perfect texture and body.
2. Swoop into very low ponytail a few inches down from the nape.
4. Roll the tail up and tuck underneath, loosening the sides slightly as you go.
5. Secure with a few redhead bobby pins underneath that match your red tone.
Redhead of the Week
Be the Redhead of the Week
It's your time to shine!
Apply now! Fields marked with an * are required.
"*" indicates required fields
Meet Kyllian
Kyllian loves being a redhead because it is extremely unique. She is a soldier in the U.S. Army and people always remember who she is because her red hair stands out so much. She is currently stationed in Korea and the locals frequently approach her to ask if they can touch her hair because it is considered lucky in their culture. She said, “I am indeed so, so very lucky to be a redhead!”
Happy Memorial Day Weekend to all & let’s give a special thanks to Kyllian for serving (and rockin’ it like a redhead) in the military.
Redhead of the Week
Be the Redhead of the Week
It's your time to shine!
Apply now! Fields marked with an * are required.
"*" indicates required fields
Meet Natalie
Natalie lives on the North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii. At first, she was very embarrassed about her red hair and light skin because everyone else is dark with golden skin. But, she soon decided being unique was a positive thing. She said, ” I definitely stand out like a sore thumb, but my confidence outshines everything. I wouldn’t change my freckles and red hair for anything in the world!”
It has been determined that there’s a connection between redheads and pain. The Huffington Post recently said, “Numerous studies have suggested that redheads feel more pain. And, now a new study from Southampton University Hospital is looking to confirm the theory.”
Because us ‘gingers’ don’t handle pain the same way others do, it’s important to keep care of our skin, body and hair safe. Thankfully, the beauty industry has made it über convenient to take care of ourselves anytime, anywhere….even from our own bed.
Here’s a simple “redhead friendly” survival kit to keep yourself beautiful and pain free:
When it comes to jeans or trousers, almost everyone’s favorite is the ‘skinny’ jean. But for this season, the flare or bell bottom trousers are back! We’ve seen it worn on a ton of celebrities and they come in a variety of styles, the most common being: the traditional 70’s bell bottom or modern flare.
What’s the modern flare?
Flare pants are tight from the knee up, hugging the thighs and super flare from the knee down. What I love about a flare leg is that it elongates the legs, making a woman look longer and liner. One particular rule that every redhead should follow, is to wear high heels with flare pants, otherwise you’ll be dragging the bottom of the pants on the floor. Also, as we all know, high heels accentuates a woman’s curves. Double win!
As far as putting an outfit together with flare pants, pair them with tucked-in romantic blouses or a blouse with a skinny belt around the waist. Another great outfit you can put together is flared pants with a knit sweater. If the sweater is too big it will over power the wideness of the bottom of your pants, so make sure it is form fitting.
What body type do you have? See how flared pants can work for you:
1. Apple Shape: If you are heavy on top, flare pants are the ideal way to balance the lower part of your body. It emphasizes the curves in the lower part of your body, giving that perfect balance.
2. Pear Shape: If you are a little wider in the bottom, flare pants slims down your hips and legs and completely balance your entire body. Tip: Do not wear printed flare pants because this will only attract attention to your legs and this is the part you want to balance with the upper body.
3. Hourglass Shape: This is the best type of body to rock the flare pants because it emphasizes curves, accentuates the waist and makes the waste look super tiny.
1. Redhead Tee’s: What redhead doesn’t want to showcase their personality with a “Keep Calm & Rock it like a Redhead” or a “How to be a Redhead Official” t-shirt? They are super comfortable, 100% cotton and perfectly fitted t-shirts. All size charts are featured next to merchandise in shop.
2. Redhead Bobby Pins: We know, all redheads are rejoicing in the fact that we no longer have to use blonde/brunette bobby pins. Yay! We can finally have access to bobby pins that look so great with the three different types of red hair: “Ginger,” “True Red” and “Midnight Red.” Tip: Pair your redhead bobby pins with a stellar red lip.
3. Redhead Hair Ties: Another “alleluia!” Redheads can now rock ponytails with red hair ties and can choose from 4 select colors, even a glittery one. A redhead ponytail is a classic look for any day of the week. Want more inspirations for redhead hairstyles? Click here.
The product usually come in a clear, lightweight, ammonia-free formula that enhances luminosity and doesn’t add color, which is ideal for natural redheads, too.
Co-founder of How to be a Redhead, Stephanie Vendetti, is a natural redhead, but the summer rays always lighten her hair into a “strawberry blonde.” Her hair is too red to use any type of hair dye, but (sometimes) too light to be considered a vibrant redhead. She turned to hair colorist, Kiera Doyle, at the ARROJO Cosmetology school in downtown New York City for a subtle color gloss.
ARROJO Cosmetology educator, Kelly Hawkins commented on Stephanie’s transformation, “Red hair can be enhanced with a color gloss, which helps to keep hair moisturized and toned. Use products that are sulfate-free, like ARROJO Color Save Shampoo & Conditioner, or ARROJO Shine Luxe shampoo & conditioner. Ask your colorist for tones that correspond with the season. To ‘winterize’ red hair, go for deeper shades with red-violet undertone, or ‘spice tones’ like cinnamon or nutmeg for natural looks.”
Kiera Doyle used a Goldwell copper gloss on Stephanie and left it on for 15 minutes. Once it was rinsed out completely, she used ARROJO’s Healing Oil to add body and sultry texture. It also contains sunscreen for hair protection!
Here are more tips from ARROJO Cosmetology educations on how redheads can naturally enhance their hair color:
1. “Always rinse red hair (natural or color-treated) with cool water to enhance shine and seal the hair cuticle,” said Mauricio Martinez.
2. “Avoid over-shampooing your hair,” said Megan Richardson. “I recommends 2 times a week maximum and use a dry shampoo like ARROJO Refinish on the days in between.”
3. “To help show off beautiful color, brush hair smooth with a natural bristle brush to promote shine, and for a chic, feminine way to show off your color, opt for braided styles. And, don’t be afraid to complement your hair with a red lip,” said Pia Vivas.
The hair gloss simply enhanced Stephanie’s natural red hair and with regular use of the tips above will see results for 8-12 washes.
If you are looking for a way to keep your red hair shiny and healthy, look no further:
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.
Miss Ireland Aoife Walsh became the 66th woman to take the coveted national crown in July 2013. Upon competing at the Miss World competition in Bali, she was the only redhead of the 101 countries represented. “One of the special things about me is that I’m the first Miss Ireland to be a redhead, and I’m also the only redhead in this year’s Miss World final,” Aoife said in her official Miss World profile interview.
A month after Miss World concluded, Aoife Walsh candidly spoke with How to be a Redhead about her life since winning the Miss Ireland crown, her top beauty products and her life as a natural redhead.
H2BAR: You’re a secondary school teacher! How did you start in the pageant beauty industry?
AW: Miss Ireland is something I always wanted to do. I decided to enter because I had finished my education and thought it was the right time to enter since I had time to focus on it.
H2BAR: How did it feel to win Miss Ireland?
AW: It feels amazing to be Miss Ireland! I really never imagined I could win the competition and I’m so proud and honored to hold the title.
H2BAR: How did you feel to be the only redhead at this year’s Miss World final? How would you describe representing Ireland and redheads everywhere?
AW: I’m red and proud. I don’t remember there being a redhaired Miss Ireland before, certainly not in recent times. I’m also the only redhead at the Miss World finals this year! It’s something I’m so proud of and I feel it gives me the extra edge because I am not the typical blonde or brunette. Having red hair makes me stand out in the crowd and I’m so grateful to be a redhead.
H2BAR: How was it growing up as a redhead?
AW: Growing up, I got teased and now it’s great to be the symbol of such unique beauty. I know many redheads in Ireland and around the world also get teased and are considered “not beautiful.” I want every redhead to know that it’s because of their red hair that they are beautiful. I feel so grateful that it was because of my hair that I won the biggest pageant in Ireland. I want to encourage redheads to be proud of their unique hair and their roots… literally!
H2BAR: Do you come from a family of redheads? Does your town have a lot of redheads?
AW: My parents and sister do not have red hair, but many of my cousins do. My particular color comes from my grandmother. Unfortunately, she’s no longer with us, but I have the fondest memories of her with her red hair at the age of 92. Thanks to her, it looks like I won’t ever go white or gray.
H2BAR: What is one beauty product you cannot live without?
AW: Nicole Kidman. She and I have similar coloring and I think she is such an inspiring actress.
H2BAR: How does your personality reflect your style?
AW: I would describe my style as girly, but definetly evolving as I love to try new looks. I love fashion and style, and always keep up with the latest trends.
H2BAR: What nail polish are you currently rockin’?
AW: My go-to nail polish is a pale pink, but I have a French manicure at the moment.
H2BAR: Share with us something our audience does not know about you!
AW: I have three degrees! A B.A. in Geography and Economics, M.A. in Business Management and postgraduate degree in Education.
H2BAR: What advice would you give to girls who are struggling to embrace their red hair?
AW: I know many girls struggle with this and I was definitely one of them. I went through the phase of being teased and was called so many mean names. It got so bad that I wanted to dye my red hair blonde. But, I learned to really appreciate my hair and love that it sets me apart from the crowd. I even love nicknames like “RED!”
H2BAR: What do you have planned for the rest of 2013 and into 2014?
AW: I have so much planned for my year as Miss Ireland and I’m loving every minute of it. I’m concentrating on modeling at the moment. I’m very excited to see where 2014 takes me.
Good redhead makeup tips are hard to come by and when you get technical, it can even be harder to come by. Ever wonder how a redhead should go about doing a smokey eye? The December issue of Cosmopolitan magazine has a step-by-step tutorial on how to do a dramatic eye and it demonstrates how well the look complements red hair. We spoke with Ashley Rebecca, NYC redhead makeup artist who assisted celeb artist Tim Quinn for this very spread.
Ashley said, “When doing a smokey eye, opt for deep purple, brown, or emerald green color shadows, and blend, blend, blend! These tones pop brown, green, and blue eyes which are common amongst redheaded beauties.”
Here are three more redhead makeup tips from Ashley:
1. “For fall, play with color! Since most redheads have fair skin tones, a beautiful bold lip or a smokey eye looks beautiful.” Tip: Try using dark red lipsticks with berry undertones, and orange reds that give an overall brightness to the skin.
2. “Always make sure to fill in the brows and give them shape. Some redheads have blonde brow hair which can get a little lost on the face. Defining your brows is a great way to enhance your features and hair color.”
