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Hair

Interview with Celebrity Hair Colorist Rona O’Connor

Rona O’Connor is owner of Beverly Hill’s Lukaro Salon and celebrity hair colorist who has worked with Hollywood’s most famous redheads: Debra Messing, Blake Lively, Bella Thorne, Joanna Garcia, Laura Prepon, Melissa Gilbert, Rachel Boston and Jayma Mayes.

She sat down with H2BAR to share her expert advice on attaining the perfect red and the work she has done on our favorite redhead celebrities:

H2BAR: Can you explain how you transformed Blake Lively’s hair from blonde to red?

RO: I first conditioned the hair, since it was blonde and therefore, more porous.  I wanted the hair to be in it’s best condition and also wanted to even out the surface of the hair, so that the color would take evenly and hold better.  I then used an overall golden-red color wash on the roots and ends. After-which, I added three shades of red-lights from gold to fiery copper and finished with a gloss. Blake said the final result of my color combination looked like the colors of a fire opal. So, I refer to her red as “Fire Opal Red”.

H2BAR: Tell us about the process it took to turn Bella Thorne’s hair from brown to red?

RO: As for Bella, I call her red “Golden Sienna.” I used a Red Level 8 base color and added red and gold lights throughout her hair every other visit. I finished with a golden apricot glaze.

H2BAR: Many are turning to the drugstore aisles to purchase at-home dyes. Any recommendations?

RO: You won’t achieve exact looks in a box because true dimensional color takes multiple shades and an artistic hand. But, the good news is, you can achieve similar hues.

Bella’s color would a be a level 8 or 9 copper on a level 7 natural base.

To attain Blake’s red, I’d keep it safe and start with a level 9, golden copper, since she was going from blonde to red (not recommended on bleached hair).

My biggest piece of advice is to always make sure you follow the instructions on the box. Don’t take the dye off sooner because you think it’s better for the hair because they are formulated to process in a certain amount of time for the best final result. I like companies that give you a shade reference on the side of the box and that also give you maintenance conditioning treatments — it helps the color last longer!

Another thing that is important for at-home maintenance is to use red-pigmented shampoos and conditioners or red pigmented glazes to keep the color vibrant for a longer period.

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H2BAR: As a stylist, do you think it takes someone special to go red (i.e. skin tones, personality characteristics, etc.)?

RO: The color red is bold and makes a statement; whether it is about fashion, looking fierce or just for fun. The color red isn’t shy and everything about it is uplifting. Red hair can suit several skin tones if the right shade is chosen!

Do you have cool skin and blue eyes? You’ll look great with a cool red, either a rubied red or rich copper with ruby undertones.  This will bring a blush to cool, pale skin. Think: Debra Messing.

Do you have warm skin and green, hazel or brown eyes? You’ll  look great with a warm red. Think of a tanned Blake or Bella who has porcelain, but warm skin.

Not every person looks perfect with red hair, but there is always a way for everyone to wear a little bit of red!

H2BAR: Do you think there is a particular hair trend that is timeless?

RO: The Keira Knightly bob! Keira’s bob is a classic cut that is timeless and has a great shape that can soften and bring symmetry to a square or round jawline when cut in an A-Line shape.This cut is always in!

H2BAR: What is your favorite hair trend for the fall season?

RO: My favorite trend for color is light, bright golden reds. I love a bold color with multiple hues and tone on tone shades.

Quick one process fixes with fewer foils, and glosses with tone are the way to go.

For the fashion forward and daring, I think the light, bright golden red could be very modern and something new if cut into a pixie for someone with very feminine features.

H2BAR: Do you advise special hair products/brands to keep red hair from fading?

RO: I love color shampoos and conditioners for in between visits because they reinforce color. Bottled reds do fade quickly and some natural redheads go brown; the color shampoo/conditioner will help keep the red vibrant. I recommend Aveda’s Color Conserve Set. It has been around a long time, smells really nice and leaves hair really shiny and silky. Also, Goldwell’s red color enhancing products are wonderful!

H2BAR: We LOVE Debra Messing’s curls. What techniques do you suggest to attain this look.

RO: Use a 2 inch barrel curling iron with medium heat. Take 2 inch sections, wrap vertical, keep ends smooth inside the barrel (flat and neat is so important!!)

For a larger curl, after curling, tousle the hair.

For a smaller curl, take a smaller section, about 1 inch, and make more curls.

Important tip: Use a flexible curl enhancing product!

H2BAR: What life advice do you have for our wonderful redheaded readers?

RO: Life is too short, so do what you undertake well, or don’t do it at all.

Style

3 Fashion Tips When Redheads Wear Yellow

Rihanna, the gorgeous by-choice redhead, was recently featured in Spain’s Cosmopolitan– wearing yellow! H2BAR loves when redheads where yellow and since fall arrived, we haven’t stopped accessorizing with the color.

Many redheads worry that the color yellow will not complement their pale skin and sometimes that may be true, but there is nothing that makes an outfit pop more than a yellow clutch, vibrant shoe or flashy pants.

Tips:

1. If you choose to wear yellow in a big way, like yellow pants, wear a “redhead friendly” top color like a dark blue or eggplant purple.

2. When wearing a one colored cheek outfit, choose a yellow clutch to brighten everything up.

3. Be Fun! Opt for funky yellow shoes to make your outfit pop.

Rock it like a Redhead! 

Sarah Reeves

Why Redheads Should Invest in Leather This Fall Season

Ahh, leather. So soft, smooth, durable, and usually expensive. Don’t fret, redheads because this fall I’m going to let you know where your leather budget is best spent.

1. The Traditional Jacket- I remember I got my first black leather jacket from The Limited Too in the 3rd grade- thank you, Santa! Leather jackets are so great for looking fashionable and keeping you warm. This traditional style never goes out of fashion, but every year there’s a different leather jacket trend. These days it’s more of a cropped look with lots of embellishments.

You can get away with buying faux leather, but make sure to buy a more durable heavier fabric, so it holds up longer. I have seen the love a jacket like this.

2. $ When to Splurge- One place in your wardrobe you really need to invest your leather budget in is good quality shoes. Leather boots will pretty much mold to you once you wear them enough and on the plus side, you’ll have them for years and years!

The Negative? You might have to fork over some money for the initial investment.  Be sure to get a style you love because you’ll be wearing them a long time!

And be warned for crocking. Crocking is when there’s a color transfer from the leather to another surface (your feet, socks, etc…) so, be prepared if you get caught in the rain.

When to Buy Cheap- You can get away with faux leather in accessories and party handbags.  You don’t necessarily need leather in your belt to keep your jeans up and the faux clutch can still hold all of your lipsticks! If you spill on them when you’re out, no worries.

Unique Buy- Leather tops, that’s right! Pair them with simple jeans or a black skirt.  People will be rubbing your back all night.

Lastly, my redheads, don’t be afraid to buy your leather in a variety of ‘redhead friendly’ colors. Like this purple leather coat. Rock it like a Redhead

Confident Lifestyle

Exclusive Interview with Renowned Skin Care Expert, Susan Ciminelli

She exclaimed, "I am like a redhead! I am extremely sensitive to smell, taste and food."

Susan Ciminelli, America’s skin guru, is the founder of The Susan Ciminelli Spa in Midtown Manhattan, New York.Years ago, when she hit the streets of New York City she instantly drew a celebrity crowd because everyone wanted in on her outer radiance secret; which is known all over the world as “The Susan Ciminelli Glow.”

She is a true pioneer of holistic beauty and health and H2BAR had the distinct pleasure of sitting down with her to learn how we can all have amazing skin too.

She exclaimed, “I am like a redhead! I am extremely sensitive to smell, taste and food.”

H2BAR: How did you get into the beauty/skin industry?

SS: As a young girl, I would get rashes and skin irritations if I did “normal things,” like use a paper napkin or do dishes. At the age of 15, I developed an ulcer that affected my skin. It was discovered that my skin issues were due to digestion problems because of stress!

Once I discovered the origin of my own skin issues and began studying the body, I would look at other people’s skin issues and would automatically know what was causing them. So, out of necessity, I was self taught.

H2BAR: Do you recommend any at home remedies to better the skin?

SS: Make sure to incorporate water with fresh lemons and eat lots of celery! Both will naturally cleanse and detox your body; you’ll notice the difference in your skin within days after adding them to your diet.

H2BAR: Any skin care advice for redheads with sensitive skin?

SS: My skin was so sensitive, so I know what redheads go through! Sensitive skin is the inspiration behind making my own pure, all natural skin products.

H2BAR: With the changing of seasons, do you recommend redheads change up their skin routine?

SS: During the fall/ winter months, it is essential to use a heavier moisturizer than in the spring/summer months. I recommend using my Very Berry Serum underneath your moisturizer. It contains berries from the Amazon and contains an antioxidant to prevent cancer.

H2BAR: Who is your favorite female celebrity client?

SS: Jennifer Lopez. She is truly the hardest working, centered woman I have ever met. Her life is so fulfilled and her skin is beautiful because of it.

H2BAR: What is your favorite philosophy that you live by?

SS: Whatever it takes to live a conscious, good life- get there. That is where you will find true happiness and great skin!

Picture Credit:  © Susan Ciminelli, Pictured with Martha Stewart

Sarah Reeves

The Military Look: Top Fashion Trend for Redheads

Everything about the military fashion trend is FANTASTIC for redheads. Why?

  1. The military look features many embellishments and colors that look great with ginger locks.

2. The style is very structured and therefore, when found in the right size, will flatter all shapes because the stitching and fabric perfectly conforms to the body.  Tip: Do you keep finding items tailored, but oversized? If it is a shirt, pair it with a great waist belt. If an accessory won’t help, visit a tailor. A tailor will fit the clothes to your body and you’ll notice a huge difference in the way you look and feel!

3. I love when redheads wear gold jewelry because it flatters fair skin and red hair in an amazing way! Thankfully, military clothes are often embellished with signature gold or bronze claps, closures, and buttons.

4. The military look is always comprised of “redhead friendly” colors like navy, hunter green and brown.

5. The look won’t break the bank. Whether you shop at high end department stores like Neiman Marcus or vintage shops, you can find key military pieces at an affordable price.

My redheaded ladies, feel free to jump into the trend with excitement! You can’t go wrong with a militia fall coat or a green dress accented with epaulets.

Still confused about how you should wear the military look?

  1. Mix and match this soldier look with really girly pieces like a floral dress or pink stilettos.

2. Pair these items with brown boots and gold jewelry.

Good luck redheads! 10-4! Over and Out. Rock it like a Redhead! 

Confidence

Red Hair Motivates Me! An Interview with Miss Nevada

h2BAR had the pleasure to interview the winner of the 2009 Miss Nevada Pageant, Christina Keegan. She spoke candidly about her life as a natural redhead and her involvement in the Miss America Pageant.

She exclaimed, “Red hair motivates me!”

Christina Keegan grew up in a big, loving family. In 2008, she was attending University of Utah School of Medicine until she decided to go home to Nevada to compete for the Miss Nevada title in the Miss America Pageant. Christina said, “It was such a gratifying experience to win the competition! Their isn’t another organization that gives women, from 18 to 24, the ability to fund their education or the ability to speak out on a national level about issues that matter to them.”

H2BAR: What is your secret for keeping your red hair so beautiful?

CK: Thank you! I wash my hair every other day.

I absolutely love Redken products! The shampoo and conditioner keeps my hair looking shiny and healthy. Also, Bumble and Bumble products are popular in beauty pageants; it helped me maintain my red locks and I’ve never turned back!

H2BAR: Has having red hair inspired your career?

CK: H2BAR is right, being a redhead is a lifestyle. People talk about blondes and what not, but being a redhead is so unique and special.

When I was growing up, I hated being a redhead because I was tall with braces and glasses; I wanted to be a brunette so badly. But, I eventually grew into myself and now I absolutely love being a redhead!

H2BAR: The H2BAR audience is wondering, what is your favorite beauty/ fashion trend this season?

CK: Bright colors! I use to only wear neutral colors because my hair is so bright, but I learned sporting colors is so fun. It makes everything (makeup and hair) pop!

Don’t be afraid to wear prints or bright colors!

H2BAR: Are there some essential “redhead friendly” makeup products you can’t live without?

CK: I am a die-hard fan of anything by Clinique! All their products are fragrance-free which is essential for sensitive redheaded skin.

I also never leave the house without wearing 40 SPF on my face!

 

Hair

3 Ways To Take Your Red Hair from Summer to Fall

By: Guest Writer, Kaylyn from SalonPulse.com

Since autumn/Redhead Season is right around the corner, I thought it might be time to share my favorite tips for taking your red locks from summer to fall.

Personally, my wild curly hair is damaged from hours of summer sun, using my straightener way too much (I’m addicted to my Chi), applying a ton of harmful styling chemicals and soaking up all the nasty NYC air pollutants.

Needless to say, my hair is pooped and needs to be revitalized for the autumn months.

Here’s what I’ve been doing to wake-up my tresses and get them perkier again:

1. Deep condition at least once a week. 

This is one of the top things my stylist recommends, and it does help a lot; especially for ladies that do heat styling or have naturally dry, frizzy hair like me. There are plenty of cheap options on the market that won’t break the bank. I’ve been using Aussie 3-Minute Miracle Moist [Also featured in the February 2017 H2BAR Box] for years and it’s fabulous.

2. Schedule a hair appointment. 

Have your hair trimmed, or be brave and get a brand new haircut. I recently got a cut and asked my stylist to only cut ½ an inch off the ends because I didn’t want to lose length, but hey, anything helps. My ends were pretty dry, and just getting that teeny trim made my hair more bouncy.

3. Try not to over shampoo. 

This can be hard for those ladies who are use to shampooing everyday; but seriously, if you break the habit, your red, beautiful hair will thank you. Why? Natural oils are good for the hair and the scalp.

Love your red hair. Love yourself and Rock it like a Redhead! 

Hair

A ‘Redhead Friendly’ Product To Conceal Roots FAST!

Bottled redheads, are you due for a root touchup but don’t have time to make it to a salon? Natural redheads, are you sick of dry shampoo lightening your red hair?

We wanted to tell you about a product that may save your red locks: Bumble and Bumble Hair Powder in Red*. It is a tinted dry shampoo! It works to keep your red hair vibrant while also cleaning it. Designed to accommodate all shades of red, this powder will end the fading color battle ASAP. Just make sure to cover clothing as the product can get a little messy.

Bumble and Bumble’s Red Hair Powder is available at Sephora, amazon.com and retails for $34.

*Disclaimer: The Red powder was discontinued by Bumble and Bumble in 2013. We recommend Rita Hazan’s Root Concealer in Red and L’Oreal Red Root Cover Up.

Confident Lifestyle

Sound Off: Millionaire Matchmaker Patti Stanger Says Millionaires Don’t Want Redheads

By: Guest Author, Courtney Leiva

This week in entertainment news, Millionaire Matchmaker host, Patti Stanger, claimed again millionaires [in her club] do not like redheads.

She was quoted saying, “I can’t get my millionaires to date a redhead. It has nothing to do with me. I can’t make my millionaires pick what I want.”

And it doesn’t just stop with red hair, Stanger also states that men don’t go for ladies with curly hair either. So, if you’re a curly haired redhead, in Stanger’s opinion, you’re not dating material.

“Men who are wealthy like straight hair, they like to run their hands through it, not get tangled in there..” Stanger claimed.

What do you all think about this?

In my opinion, it is ridiculous! Going red is the hottest hair trend and natural redheads are gorgeous. From my experience, there isn’t much truth to Miss Patti’s red haired comments.

Rock it like a Redhead! 

Confident Lifestyle

Postpartum: Is It a Redhead Trait?

Bryce Dallas Howard, known for her role in Twilight and the recent movie, The Help, is a stunning pregnant redhead and many reporters have said she “radiates warmth.” We agree!

Although, Bryce has been talking candidly about how she suffered a deep postpartum depression following the birth of her son, Theo, 4.

In a recent interview she said, “It was so unexpected and went on for so long, 18 months. This time around I’m not as worried about things and while I really don’t want it to happen again, it’s not something I can necessarily control. If it happens, hopefully I’m more prepared and I’ll get help earlier.”

There isn’t any scientific evidence that redheads experience postpartum, but H2BAR wanted to take this story to our redheaded readers: Did you experience this too?

Although not a natural redhead, Marcia Cross,said she was freaked out while pregnant, but once her twins came she “[was] the happiest creature on the planet.”

Share your stories here!

Style

Why Redheads Should Wear The Color Yellow

Yellow For Redheads

Edited: March 17, 2021

Redheads should not be afraid to wear yellow. It can be a very complementary ‘Redhead Friendly’ color –– if done right. Keep reading for four tips on how to incorporate yellow in your redhead wardrobe.

1. Choose the right yellow

Yellow mustard is a great ‘redhead friendly’ option for redheads since it includes brown undertones. Try a stylish, yet simple sundress. A floral cami dress or subtle skirt is another great way to lightly incorporate yellow into your wardrobe.

2. Break up yellow

Opt for a yellow floral print or stripe t-shirt. You can also choose to color block. A yellow skirt with a blue top is great for a mod color, block look. Yellow looks great with dark jeans. Try pairing a yellow blouse with a denim skirt or jean jacket.

3. Accessorize

If you buy a yellow dress, don’t be afraid to add accessories to break up the outfit. A brown belt and gold jewelry look stunning paired with yellow. If you’re into headbands, try a scarf or knotted headband to make your red hair pop.

4. Rock leopard 

Leopard is so in right now. Most leopard prints include yellow, so it’s a win-win!

5. Confidence 

Contemplating if you can pull off yellow? Try it! Simply sweep up our red hair and strut your stuff.

Rock it like a Redhead! 

Subscribe to the H2BAR Box: A monthly and quarterly beauty subscription box for redheads! Use code: REDHAIR for 10% off. Subscribe now! 

 

Skin

Sugar Coated: The Sweeter Side of Hair Removal for Redheads

While blondes may have more fun, brunettes do it better…redheads do it pain free.

Scientific studies have shown that redheads are actually less sensitive to pain compared to people with other hair colors as well as men – what wimps. JK!

According to Professor Jeffrey Mogil at McGill University in Montreal, Canada the gene called melanocortin found in people with red hair and fair skin, give not men but women a higher pain threshold.

Now that you know just how strong your ginger genes are, are you actually still afraid of getting waxed? Have you been pushing back your appointment to 1 hour before hitting the beach? Taking an acetaminophen before enduring the hot strips hoping it would lessen the pain?

Sissy! JK (again), I totally feel your pain for pain.

There is no need to be the weakest link of the Re(d)olution anymore with Sugaring – an all natural and painless alternative to getting rid of unwanted hair.

Owner Shobha Tummala of Shobha Salons located in New York City concocts a mixture of honey, lemon juice, glycerin and water and spreads it onto skin. Then using a piece of denim (yes, like jeans) lifts the hair from the follicle. Denim is used instead of traditional muslin or linen because it does not tug the hair nor cause irritation. Overall, this gentle experience reveals baby bottom bare skin without the ache.

What to try it at home? You can purchase Shobha Sugaring Kit ($30) that contains six washable and reusable strips of denim.

Visit www.myshobha.com for more information.

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