The Perfect Straight Hair Experience

In January, beauty bloggers around the country responded to Sunsilk’s question ‘What is the craziest experiment you’ve tried to get straight hair?’. The responses were indeed crazy, wacky and lots of fun! Sunsilk responded personally to every blogger, reassuring them that they need not experiment with their hair anymore and offered them a solution to get straight hair every day – thus, was launched Sunsilk Perfect Straight shampoo and conditioner!

Every blogger received a sample of Sunsilk Perfect Straight and got an opportunity to try and test the product for themselves. To create some more buzz, Sunsilk asked bloggers to write about their product experience, thus getting credible reviews from real girls and lots of feedback about the brand’s latest product. 

With an exciting grand prize (an iPad) and 15 Kindles, the entries were super creative. From picture stories, to stop motion videos to hilarious real life accounts, bloggers testified to Sunsilk Perfect Straight being the perfect solution to straight hair days.

Pooja, who blogs at My Lips Don't Lie, has been chosen as the GRAND PRIZE WINNER, for her witty account of how she is wary about losing hair with straightening irons.

Shruthi Chaturvedhi’s entry ‘Lock Kar Diya Jaye’ was a creative spin on the Sunsilk brand communication ‘Lock Karo, Rock Karo’ on her blog Chaai, Paani, Biskut etc

Bushra too says ‘I locked, I rocked’ in her blog Stillettomaniac and who can’t agree that straight hair rocks!

Modonika gave rated the product 4/5 at Modonika

Pooja Kopargaonkar who says she had frizzy hair, says Sunsilk really helped control the frizz in her blog Born with Heels.

Ganga Bharani’s stop motion video was impressive and we think the amount of effort she put in is truly commendable – a real Sunsilk girl, this one! Do check out her video at Scribbled by GB.

So….if you have not yet tried Sunsilk Perfect Straight, what are you waiting for? Go ahead….LOCK KARO, ROCK KARO!

Hair Care Tips for a Healthy Scalp

Hair problems such as thinning or falling of hair, premature greying or breakage, dandruff and flaking could be symptoms that indicate an unhealthy scalp. As upsetting and embarrassing as these may be, they are also warning signs to start taking care of your scalp. 

What's your scalp type?

Much like skin, the scalp too can broadly be divided into three types — normal, oily and dry. To be able to master a scalp care regime, you need to determine which scalp type you are (see table below). We got an expert to suggest beauty routines for each variant.

Normal Scalp

Says trichologist Dr Pankaj Chaturvedi, “Since it has the right balance of sebaceous glands, the normal scalp type is generally not prone to problems like dandruff or excessive oil deposition.” 

What to do?

Shampoo and condition your hair twice a week with a herbal shampoo meant for normal hair. Always use a light conditioner after, to avoid frizzy flyaways.

Do a warm oil treatment once a month so that the oil glands are stimulated. Keep the oil on for about an hour and shampoo off. If you don’t want to an oil treatment, simply massage your hair with water. 

The physical pressure applied in massaging helps in improving blood circulation.

Home remedy: Treat your hair to an avocado and olive oil mask once a month to render it a luscious shine. Mash one ripe avocado, add half a cup coconut milk and one tablespoon olive oil and whisk well. Apply this mixture to dry hair and leave it on for 30 minutes. Shampoo and condition your hair as you would do usually.

Oily scalp

Contrary to popular belief, oily scalp is most prone to dandruff and flaking. The excess oil that the sebaceous glands in the scalp produce, tends to accumulate around the roots, clogging the pores. The hair is usually limp and flat, making it almost impossible for volumising or styling products to hold.

What to do:

Shampoo your hair every day with a deep cleansing shampoo suitable for oily hair. If you suffer from dandruff, opt for an anti-dandruff variety. If you must use conditioner, ensure you leave the conditioner on for under 60 seconds. Avoid using leave-in conditioners.

Do not apply extra oil unless suggested by a trichologist. Avoid brushing your hair too much as that stimulates secretion of oil. 

Home remedy: To control secretion of excess oil, make a mixture of lemon and hibiscus flower with two tablespoons of curd. Apply it on your hair like a mask. Leave on for about 20 minutes, then shampoo off.

Dry scalp

A dry scalp causes constant itching and flaking, leaving the hair rough, dull and frizzy. “Since the oil secreted by the sebaceous glands is insufficient, apply oil externally for your mane’s natural nourishment,” says Dr Chaturvedi. 

What to do?

Oil your hair overnight before you decide to wash your hair. Shampoo only once a week with a product that contains natural oils for moisture. Opt for a thick cream-based conditioner and leave it on for about 10 minutes before rinsing off.

Get a warm oil treatment every week to stimulate the sebaceous glands. Massage your scalp thoroughly to stimulate oil secretion.

Home remedy: To moisturise your scalp and stimulate oil secretion, cut a lemon into half. Rub it in circular motions all over wet hair to exfoliate dry skin off the surface. Let the lemon juice soak for about 30 minutes and rinse with water.

Scalp care tips

Avoid loading the hair with too many products. Make sure your hair is free of products at least once a week to ensure the scalp can “breathe”

Do not blow-dry hair for more than five minutes

Invest in a massaging hairbrush to stimulate the scalp, thereby strengthening your tresses

Never brush your hair in a hurry as friction causes split ends

Avoid brushing when the scalp is wet

Do not tie up wet hair as the moisture accumulates and clogs the pores, subjecting your scalp to bacterial and fungal infections

Always wash your hair in lukewarm water so that it is not too harsh on your scalp

Include soyabeans, broccoli, flaxseeds and radish in your daily diet

Avoid touching and pulling your hair too much as this could lead to richotillomania

7 Seriously Bad Habits That Are Ruining Your Hair

It's time to rethink your go-to ponytail.

"There are a lot of things you do on a daily basis that can wreak havoc on your hair," says celebrity stylist Harry Josh, who works with Gisele Bundchen, Rose Byrne, and a ton of other A-listers. According to Josh, here's what you're doing wrong.

1. Using the wrong hair ties.

"You might still be using an elastic with the metal fasteners that hold the hair tie together, or, God forbid, an office rubber band to put your hair up, but these types of hair binders will only rip out your hair when you try to take them out," Josh says. "Instead, get one that is made entirely out of fabric. And never use a rubber band to pull your hair up — they're your hair's worst enemy."

2. Doing your ponytail the same way each time.

"If you normally put your hair in a ponytail in the exact same spot every day, you can actually cause surface breakage in that area," Josh says. "What happens over time is that your hair will start to get weaker and break off in that spot, and you'll be left with a bunch of flyaways."

3. Pulling it back too tightly.

"Over time, this can cause breakage to the hairline, since you're essentially putting a lot of tension on your hair at the root," explains Josh. "If you have a frail hairline, opt for looser styles." 

4. Skipping using heat protectant spray when you style.

"These types of products nourish as they style and put a barrier between the plates of the hot tool and the inner core of your hair shaft, which keeps it strong," says Josh. "Some even contain UV filters, which help shield UV rays from sun damage, which makes it feel rough and look dry."

5. Brushing it with a boar bristle brush when it's wet.

"You always want to use a paddle brush or wide-tooth comb when you're trying to detangle your hair after you shower," says Josh. "Go for one with bristles set far apart; otherwise, using a boar bristle brush will yank your hair out since its bristles are so close together." 

6. Never brushing it at all.

"Brushing your hair invigorates the blood in your scalp, bringing it to the follicle," Josh explains. "And the healthier the follicle is, the healthier and more lustrous your hair will look."

7. Trying to fix your at-home dye job yourself.

"If you're trying to do the ombré look or give yourself highlights at home, and your hair comes out looking more yellow than what you were going for, call your stylist," Josh says. "If you go out and buy another box, thinking you're going to give it another go, think again. You could end up frying off your hair and making it fall out."

Keep that Hair Silky, Bouncy

Dry scalp, dull hair, dandruff and excessive hair fall - these problems are not just winter problems. And fretting and worrying can worsen things, say experts, claiming the problem can be controlled with the right treatment.

Dry scalp, dull hair, dandruff and excessive hair fall - these problems are not just winter problems. And fretting and worrying can worsen things, say experts, claiming the problem can be controlled with the right treatment.

The importance of hair can be understood from the fact that those with a receding hairline or bald patches are queuing up outside specialised hair transplant clinics and splurging on treatments.

Rohit Batra, dermatologist at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, told IANS: 'It is a temporary phase and people shouldn't get tense thinking about it because stress is also a reason for excessive hair fall.

'Flaky skin, frizzy, rebellious hair are common during winter, but it can be avoided and repaired.'

To keep the tresses lustrous and bouncy, Batra suggests that one should 'oil hair regularly'.

'Fungal problems aggravate when people do not wash their hair frequently, when they do not oil their hair or let the conditioner stay for a longer duration.

'Another factor is that in winter usually people wash hair with hot water, but they forget that it is not advisable. They should wash hair with lukewarm water because hot water leaves the scalp dry,' Batra added.

If dermatologists are not available, one can consult hair stylists who are trained and can dole out good hair care tips.

'Season change always has certain side effects. Be it monsoon or winter, it is a time when everyone needs to take care of one's skin and hair,' stylist Raj, who is associated with Prince and Princess beauty clinic, told IANS.

'The number of customers with such complaints increases during winter. On a normal day, a fall of 50-60 strands is considered healthy. In winters, a person can experience hair fall of more than 200 strands,' he added.

If you can't afford professional treatments, you can go for effective home remedies, says stylisht Gaurav Sharma.

To get rid of dandruff, 'use lemon juice, camphor mixed in coconut oil. People should apply lemon juice for 15 minutes and then rinse it. This is a very effective remedy. Lemons are easily available and are also cost-effective,' he said.

'To get back the texture, wash hair with beer. It really helps bring the shine back and gives volume too,' he added.

Even celebrity hairstylist Amjad Habib emphasises the quick home remedy to fix fizzy tresses.

'Home remedies are the most effective. People who have normal but frizzy hair can apply mashed mango and mint paste. It brings back the shine and makes hair smooth,' said Habib.

'People who have very dry hair should apply a paste of three bananas and honey and leave it for 50 minutes. It takes away the dryness and makes the hair softer. Lastly, for people who have oily hair they should apply a paste of mint on the scalp and leave it for 10-15 minutes and then rinse it thoroughly,' he added.

Batra also advises a nourishing diet.

'As far as medicinal precautions are concerned people can take Vitamin H, calcium pantothenate and biotin. A lot of hair serum (like Livon) are also available in the market. It helps a lot in bringing back the shine.'

'A rich diet of protein is what we recommend. For non-vegetarians fish and chicken helps. Vegetarians should indulge in soya products,' he added.

The Biggest Haircare Shampoo Questions are Answered

The secret to great hair is all in how you wash it. If you don't give your haircare shampoo a second thought, think again. The right bottle can bring you the rich, shiny, healthy do dreams.

Question:
How often should I shampoo?

Answer:
There's no harm in washing your hair every day, unless you start to see a lot of breakage, says Jeffrey J. Miller, M.D., assistant professor of dermatology at Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine. The evidence: lots of flyaways and little "baby hairs" at the crown. The entire wetting, drying, and styling process takes moisture out of your hair, so here's a rule of thumb: • Wash every day if you have oily hair, live in a polluted city or humid environment, or work out daily. • Wash every other day if your hair is normal or combination (with dry ends and oily roots). • Wash every few days if your hair is on the dry side (this includes curly or color-treated hair) or if you live in a rural environment or dry climate.

Question:
Is it possible to use too much shampoo?
Answer:
As long as you rinse it all out, you really can't use too much. A dollop the size of a quarter is usually enough, but hair length is also a factor. Lather can be drying, but since it only sits in your hair a few minutes, it's safe for all hair types, says Dr. Miller.

Question:

What is the ideal water temperature? Answer:
Warm water will work up a nice lather and help dissolve the soap so that your hair rinses clean. Avoid really hot water, which can actually make your hair limp, warns David Edery, owner of Attitudes Paris Salon in Houston. For the final rinse, cold water is best — it will lock helpful ingredients into each strand and make hair look shinier.

Question:

It takes me a long time to use up a bottle of shampoo. Does it expire?
Answer:
Most shampoos have a shelf life of two to three years. A product that's older won't harm your hair, but it won't be as effective, says Rick Abbott, product development manager for Suave. How to tell if your product is past its prime? According to Abbott, telltale signs are separation and/or a change in color or smell

Question:

I need a shampoo that will protect my color. Does that mean I can't also get shine and volume?
Answer: 
Absolutely not. Many shampoos that preserve color now include "bonus" ingredients to promote volume and shine (and to make curls look better). If that's not enough for you, start a shampoo wardrobe. Make the color protector your basic, but use the others on alternate days to get different benefits.

Question:

How often should I use a deep-cleansing or clarifying shampoo?
Answer:
If you use a lot of styling products, live in an area with mineral-rich water, or swim a lot, you should deep-cleanse or clarify twice a month. Oily types: It's a good idea to use a daily clarifying shampoo every time you wash. For the rest of us: Use a clarifying, purifying, or chelating formula (which removes mineral residue) if your hair looks dull or has become resistant to your regular products. If you color your hair and worry about the effects of deep cleansers, Edery suggests one that's safe — vinegar. Mix one quarter cup white vinegar with one cup of water. Leave it on hair for one to two minutes after shampooing and conditioning, then rinse out.

Question:
Are costly salon shampoos better than drugstore kinds?
Answer:
Shampoo is not one of those "you get what you pay for" products. How much you like a formula depends on your personal preferences (in terms of scent and texture) and how it works on your particular hair. A $5 shampoo may smell good to you and leave your hair looking terrific, while someone else may feel the same way about a $25 bottle. That said, there are a few facts to know: The big companies that create drugstore brands put a lot of money into research and new technology, but they can still keep prices low because they manufacture their products in mass quantities. Expensive shampoos have advantages of their own: In general, they're gentler and contain a higher concentration of high-quality ingredients (e.g., a conditioner that penetrates deeper into each strand). And, yes, you do pay for packaging but that's true whether you're shelling out $3 or $30. So focus not on the price tag but on finding a grime fighter that works for you.

Question:

When is it time to switch shampoos? Answer:
Sometimes the same bottle that's always made your hair bouncy and shiny can leave it lackluster without warning. "It's a popular perception that shampoo suddenly stops working, but it's not the shampoo that's changed," says David Cannell, senior vice president of research and development for Redken. Unless a product's label alerts you to a "new" or "improved" formula, it's the surface of your hair that's different. But this doesn't necessarily mean you can't go back to your old favorite. If buildup is causing the problem, first clarify, then bring back your beloved bottle. No improvement? It may be time to switch for good. A simple self-test: Look at your nails. If they are ridged, peeling, or seem to break more easily, you're experiencing the most common of all changes — aging, which leads to water loss in our cells and tissues. So while you're still using your trusty oily-hair formula, your hair may be drier than it's ever been. Buy a moisturizing version, or ask your stylist to diagnose your hair's new needs.

Question:

Do I really need conditioner?

Answer:
Conditioner is essential. It finishes what shampoo starts, in terms of making hair manageable and repairing problems like split ends. "Everyone's hair is damaged — the only question is how badly," says Cheri McMaster, senior research and development scientist for Pantene. You may go through many conditioners before you find the right one, but you'll know when you've met your match. "When your hair is properly conditioned, it holds a style better," says Cannell.

At-Home Hair Color: Hit the Bottle

If you've sprouted a few grays wondering what color you should dye your hair, it's no wonder. With dozens of choices and brands, finding your best hair hue can be exasperating. One common land mine: "Many women choose hair color that doesn't complement their skin tone," says Michael Canale, a colorist in Los Angeles. And because your hair is right next to your face, the wrong hue can make skin look drab and older. Not acceptable! Follow these easy expert tips and you'll have it made in the shade. (A word to the wise: Don't attempt to go more than two shades lighter or darker at home; drastic changes require the skills of a pro!)

Step 1: Figure out your commitment level.
You can immediately narrow the field by deciding how different you want your hair to look—and how much time (and cash!) you're willing to devote to color maintenance.

For a can't-be-missed change: Try a permanent color when you want to go up to two shades lighter or darker, says Clairol color director and New York City salon owner Marie Robinson. These formulas are also your best bet if you have lots of dye-resistant grays. Permanent dyes require a bit of work, though: Since they grow out instead of fading, you'll likely need to do monthly touch-ups to conceal root regrowth.

For a subtle pick-me-up and extra shine: Opt for a demi-permanent formula. These shades fade slightly each time you shampoo and completely wash out in about 28 shampoos, leaving no roots. Experts say this type is a great choice for those looking to minimize damage or to simply enhance their natural color (for example, if brassiness is peeking through your brown strands, a demi will cover it up). One caveat: These formulas really only work for those wanting to go darker, says Robinson. Because they don't contain ammonia, they won't lighten your current hue. And you'll have to reapply it monthly to maintain the look.

For a noticeable enhancement with few strings: Try highlights. They're spread out over your head, so they grow out without showing a distinct line of demarcation at the roots. "Highlights are great for those who want to color once every three months," says New York City salon owner Rita Hazan. They require less commitment and enhance your natural color, she adds. One drawback: At-home kits don't work well on very dark hair, which requires a higher level of lightening, says Johnathan Gale, a colorist in Los Angeles. For you, a salon trip is in order.

Step 2: Determine your skin tone.
To find the shade that will bring out the best in your complexion, you need to know your undertones. How to uncover them:

If you're going for allover color: Put on a white shirt, remove all traces of makeup, and drape a white towel over your hair. Stand in front of a well-lit mirror and take a good look. If your face looks pink or red, you've got cool undertones. See peach, olive, or gold? You're warm. If obvious colors aren't glaring back at you, or if you have hints of both, you're neutral.

If you're doing highlights only: Peek at the flecks in your eyes to determine the streak hue that'll draw attention to them, says Canale. If yours have hints of gold or amber, they're warm. If you see blue, silver, or gray, or if you have brown eyes with no flecks at all, they're cool. Experts say that while eyes alone can guide your streaks, your skin should always dictate your overall color (a helpful tip for those with warm eyes and cool skin…or vice versa!).

Step 3: Start shopping!
In the store, opt for colors close to what nature gave you, then look for certain keywords for a face-flattering match.

For cool skin tones: Aim for ash or neutral shades (you'll see the letter A or N on the box). These lack red or gold tones and counteract pinkness in your skin, says Robinson. Blondes should look for color descriptions like champagne or beige; brunettes can hunt for chocolate or espresso hues. Dying to go red? Steer clear of copper or cherry descriptions and go for a medium auburn: This brownish red will give contrast to rosy skin, not match it. Try L'Oreal Paris Sublime Mousse by Healthy Look in Spicy Auburn Brown ($10, at drugstores).

For warm skin tones: Give your complexion a healthy, natural flush by adding golden or reddish tones to your hair (look for G or R), advises Hazan. Blonde shades in this color family include honey, strawberry, and copper; brunettes should try golden brown, chestnut, or mahogany. Try John Frieda Precision Foam Color in Deep Cherry Brown ($13, at Target).

For neutral skin tones: Middle-of-the-road skin gives you more leeway to be a color chameleon, and you can choose a shade based on preference, says Hazan. (Just take some inspiration from famous neutral girls Drew Barrymore and Leighton Meester!) Go for a look that best fits your personality and upkeep level.

Finding your highlight hue: If your eyes are warm, weave in a similar tone like butterscotch, toffee, or copper to make your peepers pop. Platinum and auburn shades flatter cool eyes. Look for a permanent formula like Couture Color Luxeblend Ammonia-Free Creme Hair Colour ; the brush inside helps you target specific areas (rather than your whole head) for a natural, sun-kissed effect.

How to shampoo your hair the right way

Strong, luscious locks start in the shower with a shampoo session that maximises your hair’s potential. While an in-salon wash and blow-dry are a treat, you can mimic professional-quality results right at home.

‘Your hair is your most important fashion accessory and the first thing people notice about you,’ says Charles Worthington, celebrity hairstylist and author of The Complete Book of Hairstyling. ‘It speaks volumes about your personality, lifestyle, look – and most of all, what sort of mood you’re in.’

Here’s what you should keep in mind the next time you wash your hair:

 1. Brush and detangle before you shampoo

Hair is naturally strong and elastic – it can stretch up to 30 per cent of its original length when wet – but it can only stand so much tugging, pulling and aggressive handling, so handle your mane with care. Start by detangling dry strands from tip to root (not the other way around). Hold a section of hair in the middle and carefully brush out the ends. Work your way up until all knots are smoothed out. Then consider your shampoo options: make sure you get one that matches your hair needs. Using a clarifying shampoo once a week will also benefit your hair by removing build-up from styling products.

 2. Let your hair soak

Thoroughly wet your hair  for 30 to 60 seconds before applying shampoo. You’ll need less product, and washing will be easier on the hair. Evenly distribute shampoo, beginning at the scalp and working your way down to the tips. The pre-shampoo brushing you’ve done should help make this process more manageable. Use your fingertips (never your nails) to massage and stimulate the scalp. For extra-thorough cleansing, add a little water as you go along.

 3. Rinse thoroughly

It’s important to ensure that no residue is left after shampooing and that your hair’s cuticles are open to soak up the conditioner. If you’ve used lots of styling products the previous day, don’t let the shampoo sit in your hair – just go for a second wash. No matter how many times you shampoo, make sure you re-massage the scalp to help get everything out.

 4. Apply generous amounts of conditioner

Keep a plastic, wide-tooth comb in the bathroom, along with a shower cap (those complimentary ones from hotels work fine.) First, rinse and squeeze out any excess water from your hair. Squirt conditioner on one hand, smear it with your palms and distribute it evenly throughout strands. Concentrate on the tips, which are the driest part of the hair. If time allows, comb hair to evenly distribute conditioner. Wrap it in a bun and cover with the shower cap while you finish bathing. Rinse when finished and use a soft towel to gently press excess water out of hair. Never rub the towel vigorously over wet strands.

 5. Go for ‘holistic hair care’

If you have an unhealthy diet and lifestyle, your hair, like your skin, will suffer. Fatigue and stress will also wreak havoc on your hair, so modern hair care must be holistic and take into account all aspects of your lifestyle.

When you are tense, your scalp tightens and the blood capillaries contract, reducing the amount of oxygen and nutrients that reach the hair follicles. The production of sweat increases, causing a greasy scalp. And, in time, repeated aggravation may even lead to hair loss. A good tension-relieving scalp massage helps increase blood flow and maintain a healthy head of hair. Your healthy, tangle-free tresses will thank you.

Going Car Shopping is Easy

After a long work week there’s nothing I like more than relaxing all weekend long. Unfortunately, not all in my household share the same appreciation of relaxation, late mornings, drinking coffee til three in the afternoon, and just watching the television until the whole week starts up again. Alas, that’s why I found myself Saturday morning at an infiniti Dealer, bleary eyed and wishing I was still fast asleep.

I won’t name any names as to who had brought me from the comfort of my abode to the harsh colors and smells and lights of real life on a Saturday morning, but let’s just say I promised twenty five years ago to be with her until death did us part. Granted, I’m glad that hasn't happened yet. So, we were looking at a 2011 Ex in Los Angeles and she was all flustered because she really wanted the car. Have you mind, I got her a new car only two or three years ago – might have been four- but she was insisting it was time for another.

Trust me, when she starts insisting, you start listening, or at least reaching for the credit card and saying to the cashier, doesn’t matter, just put it all right here. Well, to be fair, this time I too was pleased with the outcome of the way-too-early jaunt out into reality. The new infiniti was a delight, real easy on the eyes, and easy on the road, smoother than I thought was possible. The acceleration was amazing, and the stereo loud and powerful. Really, the car flew across the pavement in a way that I had never quite know before. Genuine luxury at a very reasonable price. So reasonable that I considered getting two. See for yourself what kind of infiniti you can fit yourself with here: 

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Hair dyes used by millions of women are linked to chemicals that can cause cancer

Secondary amines can be found in hair dyes used by millions of Britons

Both home colouring kits and salon dye can contain chemicals

Could react with smoke and fumes and form highly poisonous chemicals

Hair dyes used by millions of women contain chemicals linked to cancer, British scientists have warned.

They say that both home hair colouring kits and the dyes used at expensive salons pose a potential risk to health.

Writing in a respected scientific journal, they say chemicals in permanent hair dyes can react with tobacco smoke and other pollutants in the air to form one of the most powerful cancer-causing compounds known to man.

With more than a third of women and one in ten men regularly colouring their hair, the researchers say it is ‘imperative’ that the risk to health is quantified.

However, the cosmetics industry has strongly disputed the claim.

The warning comes from scientists at Leeds-based company Green Chemicals who conducted a review of the chemistry surrounding hair dye. They said that all the information was already available and they simply ‘joined the dots’ to make the link with cancer.

They warn that chemicals called secondary amines, which are either found in all permanent hair dyes or are formed in them, can penetrate the skin and stay on the hair for weeks, months or even years after the dye is applied.

Over time, they could react with tobacco smoke and exhaust fumes, to form highly poisonous chemicals called N-nitrosamines.

Unsafe: Even dyes used at expensive salons can contain the dangerous chemicals

Known to cause cancer, these are banned from use in cosmetics.

But the Leeds researchers argue that they can still be generated via a simple chemical reaction.

Hair dye has previously been linked to a range of cancers, including tumours of the breast, bladder, ovaries and brain and leukaemia. 

There are also concerns that increasing numbers of people are becoming allergic to their contents, sometimes with fatal results.

The sale of home hair dye kits alone is worth an estimated £321million a year and the figure is expected to rise as the population ages.

Professor David Lewis, one of the authors of the study, and an expert in the chemistry of various dyes, said: ‘At this stage, we can’t be sure of the amount of N-nitrosamines produced or the level of risk these compounds pose but it is clear a potential hazard exists.

‘In the interest of consumer safety, it is imperative that a thorough and independent investigation is conducted to establish the levels of toxicity of these compounds and the potential risks.’

A spokesman for Green Chemicals, which is about to launch its own ‘ultra-safe’ range of hair dyes, said that despite numerous studies of the subject the danger posed by the chemicals in hair dye reacting with the air has been missed or ignored until now.

But manufacturers insisted that the possibility of the chemical reaction has been long known.

Dr Emma Meredith, of the Cosmetic, Toiletry & Perfumery Association, said the law forbids using secondary amines in a form that can react in this way.

George Hammer, the owner of Urban Retreat at Harrods, the world’s largest hair and beauty salon, said: ‘Chemical companies have a huge vested interest in keeping this under wraps.’

The warning is set out in the journal Materials.

In 2009 the Mail revealed that women who use hair dyes more than nine times a year have a 60 per cent greater risk of contracting blood cancer. A year later the European Commission banned 22 hair dyes which put long term users at risk of bladder cancer.

Can Stress Cause Me To Lose My Hair?

Question: Can stress cause me to lose my hair?

Answer: We all lose about a hundred hairs a day. But there are two forms of hair loss which can occur from excessive physical or emotional stress. The first and more common is hair loss which happens when the hair will stop growing, lie dormant, and fall out in about two to three months and then grow back again in about six to nine months.

The second type of hair loss is in reaction to a more extreme stress. That type of hair loss is called alopecia, and the hair can fall out in patches and even cover the entire scalp. If you think that stress is a factor -- because there are other factors, such as hereditary and illness, which can influence hair loss -- but if you think stress is a factor once again you need to return to looking at lifestyle changes, and see if making those changes make a difference.

Can Alcohol Help Me Cope With Stress?

Question: I like to drink alcohol to help me cope with stress, and just about everyone else I know seems to do it, too. Is this a good idea? Can I become an alcoholic?

Answer: The consumption of alcohol to deal with stress is never a good idea. There's several reasons for this. First of all, the use of alcohol like any other drug, could lead to problems with dependence or abuse. With dependence we mean if you continually use alcohol there's a risk that you'll require more and more alcohol to get the benefits of the stress relief.

ABC News Photo Illustration

Second of all, it doesn't really help you think clearly or problem solve effectively, and so it doesn't' really teach you to create solutions to the problem that's creating the stress.

There is a risk you can become addicted and it leads to also potentially further symptoms that are part of the stress reaction that you're trying to reduce such as stomach upset, dry mouth and other physical symptoms that people associate with stress.

Ugh—Smoking Is Worse for Women

We've been bombarded with the "smoking is bad for you" message since we were in elementary school. But, new research shows that, for women, the risk is even greater: We've now surpassed men when it comes to smoking-related death rates. (Um, super scary.)

It used to be that men had a five-times higher risk of dying of lung cancer than women did. But recent cancer research by the University of California, San Francisco, shows that women who smoke are now actually even more likely than men who smoke to die of lung cancer. Not only that, but female smokers are nearly 18 times more likely to die of lung cancer than women who don't have a cigarette habit.

While many of us listened to the anti-smoking ads we constantly saw as kids (and aren't dealing with a two-pack-a-day habit like a lot of people from our parents' generation), social smoking—as in having a cigarette when you're out drinking—is pretty prevalent among young women. And, not to get all preachy on you, but, yes, it still "counts" as smoking. According to the University of Montana, this sorta-sporatic habit can even lead to a full-on addiction. Not good.

So, next time you're thinking about bumming a cigarette after last call as you wait to catch a cab, you may want to reach for your pack of gum instead. It's just not worth the risk.

Read more: More Women Die of Lung Cancer Than Men — Smoking Risks for Women - Cosmopolitan

Vanessa Hudgens Recalls ‘Worst Moment’ of Her Career

Vanessa Hudgens is one of the stars of the buzzed-about film “Spring Breakers,” but in an interview with Paper magazine, she reflects on what she describes as a low point in her career.

At the height of her Disney fame, in 2007, nude photos of the “High School Musical” actress leaked onto the Internet.

“That was just a really s***ty situation that sucked,” the 24-year-old said. “That was by far the worst moment of my career.”

Hudgens bounced back from the scandal, and she now appears in “Spring Breakers” alongside James Franco, Selena Gomez and Ashley Benson. She plays one of four college students who get mixed up with a drug dealer while on spring break.

PHOTOS: Stars Caught in the Act on Set

To simulate cocaine use in the R-rated film, the actresses snorted crushed vitamin B.

“We would run around the set like mad men, and people would wonder, ‘Did you switch that out with anything?’” Hudgens said.

“Spring Breakers” hits theaters next month.

You Only Die Once — Let’s Talk About It

Dying is not the most comfortable topic of conversation, which is probably why most Americans avoid it. According to a 2012 survey by the California Healthcare Foundation, although 60 percent of people say they feel it’s “extremely important” that their family not be burdened by tough decisions about their end of life care, more than half don’t communicate their end-of -life wishes.

To help people get this difficult yet vital discussion started Dr. Richard Besser, ABC News chief health and medical correspondent, hosted a tweet chat on the subject yesterday. Experts from The Conversation Project, AARP and Agingcare.com as well as hospice representatives, caregivers and patients from all over the country tweeted out excellent advice and resources during the one hour chat.

The chat transcript is here. And below, four main points our experts and chatters felt were essential for a frank, honest and productive discussion.

Make sure you die the way you want.

Our experts stressed that the time to talk seriously about the type of care you want — or don’t want — is not in the intensive care unit. It’s at the kitchen table while you’re still healthy. Taking about death can be a depressing but tweet chatters pointed out that it becomes even more depressing when you’re no longer able to express your thoughts clearly — or participate in the conversation at all.

“Just remember to talk as a family. Honor the people who will live with your decisions after you’re gone,” the experts from AARP tweeted.

And Kathy Brandt, founder of the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization’s initiative, Caring Connections tweeted, “I never heard of a family who when faced with decisions wished they hadn’t had the conversation.”

There are many ways to get the conversation started Many tweeters advocated for doing your homework first; identify areas of concern, talk with other family members and make sure the right people are involved from the get go.
To get others talking about their own end of life wishes, the experts from The Conversation Project suggested asking them to tell you a story or share a letter about the death of a loved one such as a parent or a grandparent. From there you can ask questions and gently lead them into a discussion about their own life and death. This conversation starter kit can help get the ball rolling.
Medical advocate Regina Holliday had a creative suggestion for starting the conversation – greeting cards. She’s been lobbying Hallmark to create a line of “hospice” themed cards because, she said, no one who is terminally ill should have an empty mailbox.

Have an “advanced care directive.” It’s a gift to your loved ones.

An advance health care directive, also known as living will, personal directive, advance directive, or advance decision, is a set of written instructions that legally specifies what actions you want taken if you are too ill or incapacitated to make decisions.

Without a directive, any medical care you receive will be up to family members or, if no relative is available, at the discretion of your medical team. Directives are especially helpful if there is a disagreement about care between family members or between family members and doctors.

As many of the tweet chatters expressed, it’s one thing to have a directive in place and another to make sure it’s honored. They talked about the importance of letting loved ones know where you keep your document in case of emergency. Some even go so far as to carry theirs with them at all times.

“I keep a copy of my advance directives in my bike bag since that is my most likely cause of death at this moment,” Dr. Carolyn McClanahan, founding partner of Life Planning Services tweeted.

Laws covering advanced directives vary. The AARP provided this useful state-by-state map of advanced care directive regulations.

Understand the benefits of hospice.

“The word “hospice” comes from the Latin “hospitium” meaning guesthouse,” Dr. Nick Wasson tweeted.

In our culture we use the term hospice to describe a place and plan for making a dying person’s last bit of life as comfortable and pain-free as possible. The palliative care offered during this time shouldn’t be mistaken for a cure yet it can ease a dying person’s physical and emotional burden.

Because death is often looked at as “failure,” regardless of age or condition, many tweeters say families avoid the discussion of hospice care until the very later stages of a loved one’s illness but wish they’d discussed it sooner. Aging Care experts offered a link to a list of ideas for talking for weaving the idea of hospice into an end of life discussion.</div>

Briana Evigan

Actress: Briana Evigan 

Personal Details:- 

Full Name: Briana Barbara - Jane Evigan

Born on: October 23, 1986

Place of Birth: Los Angeles,California,U.S

Profession: Actress,Dancer, Singer,Song-Writer,Choreographer

Briana Evigan Biography:

Briana Barbara-Jane Evigan was born on Oct 23, 1986 she is an America superstar and an experienced professional dancer.She was designed in Los Angeles at California, and her mom Pamela Serpe, an experienced professional dancer, style, and superstar, and performing expert Greg Evigan.Her dad is of a Improve roots, and her mom of an France awesome. She is the latest of three buddies, with brother Jerr and sis Vanessa Lee.She has examined dance at the age of 9.She is one of the artists and functions pc key pad in the group Moorish Idol.She also did her discussion and connections stage at Los Angeles Place College. She currently way of life in Los Angeles, California.

She is best known for her tasks as Andie Western in Phase Up 2: The Roads and Cassidy Tappan in Sorority Row. She began dance at the age of 9 and is still dance as aspect of her profession these days. Evigan has been mentioned as a Yell King for featuring in many scary, and thriller movies such as Sorority Row, Losing Shiny, Mom's Day, The Devil's Circus, Store Home, and future thriller My own Activities.

An experienced expert dancer, Briana Evigan has showed up in songs video clips for Linkin Recreation area, T-Pain, Flo Rida and Enrique Iglesias. She did small tasks in tv sequence and movies such as Bottom's Up, Something Lovely and  Worry Itself.

Awards won by Briana Evigan,

Awards and Nominations
Year	Award	Category	Result
2008	MTV Movie Awards	Best kiss for Step Up:2	Won
2009	ShoWest Awards	Female Star of Tomorrow for Sorority Row

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