Don't Have Time to Do Your Hair?

A woman recently wrote in with this question:

Hello,
I'm in my 20s, and just had a baby 6 months ago. I am very happy with my body already, but my hair is awful!!! I am having problems going to the salon to get it fixed (money and time), but I am very self conscious about it. I think I look 35 years old. It is straight, brown, medium length, and STRAIGHT! Did I mention it is straight? I can't even curl my hair with a curling iron or blow dryer. It is stringy but my husband doesn't want it short! HELP, what do I do with it?!?

Thanks :)
Bonny
Canon City, CO

Hi Bonny,

There is nothing worse than hating your hair and having little time to do anything about it.
Here are some time-and-money saving tips and tricks for moms (and anyone who doesn't have a lot of time or money):

Tip 1: Skip the fancy salons All you want is for your hair to look healthy, you don't need a fancy $50 haircut. Some of my friends with the cutest, heathiest hair go to strip malls and pay $15 for their cuts. Have the stylist cut off your split ends and make sure to go back on a regular basis. Trust me: For a simple cut, you can't tell if the person got their hair cut at Oscar Blandi in NYC or in a Kentucky strip mall.

Tip 2: The simpler the cut, the better. What you need is a cut that will look good as it grows out. I suggest a chin-length bob or perhaps long layers, which will please you AND your husband. A layered cut will add body and looks great blown out or scrunched up after a shower to add some natural waves. With a bob, you can just brush and go, letting it airdry naturally.

Tip 3: Bored with your color? Buy a bottle and dye your hair. Just be sure to select a shade that's no more than a couple shades lighter or darker than your own hair so you don't have to spend a lot of time upkeeping your roots. If you have some money, getting a half-head of foiled highlights will brighten blah brown and the highlights effect tends to last a bit longer than overall color, because you don't have to hassle as much with upkeep.

Tip 4: Ponytails are your savior. Few women your age look older in a ponytail. Pull hair back and you'll not only accent your face, you'll love how carefree not having that hair in your face all the time makes you feel.

Good luck and congratulations on the new baby.

Julyne