Is spending money on your hair a worthwhile investment?
A few years ago, a study at Yale University declared the phenomenon of bad hair days leading to bad days in general to be true.
Now, granted, the study was commissioned by a shampoo company (Physique by Procter & Gamble) but according to Dr. Marianne LaFrance, Professor of Psychology and Professor of Women’s and Gender Studies at Yale University, who led the study, ”Bad hair days affect individuals’ self-esteem by increasing self-doubt, intensifying social insecurities, and becoming more self-critical in general.”
Interestingly enough, that “my hair is so bad my life is so bad” feeling affected men and women equally.
Self-esteem, social grace, and confidence are major contributors to personal success, so it’s arguable that investing a little money in your hairstyle is a worthwhile endeavor.
If you are feeling a little down in the dumps about your personal appearance, there’s a quick way to remedy that. Here are the newest hair trends and products to give you a little spring in your step.
New in Color
Celebrity colorist Rita Hazan of the eponymous Rita Hazan Salon has tinted the locks of Jennifer Lopez, among others. When asked why splurging on your hair color is a worthwhile investment, Hazan said, “Great color can make you look 10 years younger. The right color compliments your skin tone and can make your life easier- your makeup works better, your skin glows, everything seems effortless and beautiful.”
One of Hazan’s favorite color trends for spring is tone on tone color. For a more natural and sophisticated look with less upkeep, she advises lightening dark roots a shade or two and putting in fine highlights to blend the harshness between the top and the lighter bottom to create more of a multidimensional color.
Cutting Edge Style
“Though long hair is generally a popular look for summer, short hair is making a comeback,” according to Sadah, a stylist at Salon AKS in NYC. Think beachy and tousled but with less length than in seasons past. If you wear your hair longer, then a loose topknot is a chic option as well. Some of Sadah’s favorite trends for spring hair include, “Looser updos, and braids, which are still very popular, but the overall look is very romantic and not so slick. While retro and Mad Men inspired hair was big for a few seasons, the look right now is a lot more loosened up.”
For guys wondering what’s next, Sadah says that she notices many men trying to grow their hair longer and working with and playing up their texture. To keep things looking professional, she advises tucking hair behind ears so it’s still groomed but work appropriate.