Whether you’re convinced blondes have more fun, want to switch up your style or just love the way your hair looks relaxed, permed, bone-straight or full of curls, there are a number of reasons people experiment hair loss with hair dyes and chemicals. Experimenting with your look can be an exciting journey… But, before you get in the salon chair, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Know the risks
Relaxers, straighteners, perms and hair dyes all have one thing in common-chemicals. Any of these processes that alter the texture or color of your hair, can make the strands more fragile and susceptible to damage.  This doesn’t mean they can’t work for you. With patience and care, you can get the look you want and still have beautiful and healthy hair. 

Ensure that you’re in good hands
Avoid any hair drama by seeking help from quality hair care professionals. A good hairstylist is aware of the risks, the safety rules and best products to ensure a process safe for you and your hair.

Care doesn’t stop in the chair
There’s no better time to rethink your usual hair care regimen than after a chemical process. This will include gentle handling, less usage of heat-styling tools, trims and conditionimg. Opt for protective styles and keep your hair moisturized to prevent any further stress on your strands. Refer to your stylist or licensed professional for the best maintenance, styling tips and products.

Request an appointment  at info@mcbridehair.com for a consultation with the trichologist, CEO of Global Trichology Training, Donyelle Mcbride.

Congratulations on your bundle of joy! There must be a million and one thoughts running through your head as you experience this new change in your life. If one of those thoughts happen to be why your hair is shedding, you’re not alone and it is not uncommon.  It is called Postpartum Hair Loss, the sudden shedding that many new mothers experience between three and six months after they give birth.

If you were excited about a spurt in hair growth during your pregnancy, the hair loss you may experience after is the reverse effect. Your hormones are dropping back to a normal and that may mean a number of physical changes for you including lots of shedded hair. If you’re breastfeeding, the side effect may not show up until you stop and switch to a formula. But, rest assured that once your body adjusts, so should your hair.

What You Can Do About It
Restock those vitamins! And, be sure that you continue to take them daily.  When caring your tresses, be very gentle. Wash only when necessary and always follow up with a nutrient-rich conditioner. When detangling or styling, use a wide-tooth comb and keep in mind during this fragile state, tight do’s are don’ts. If you can, stay away from excessive blow-drying and straightening, in addition to chemically-based treatments (dyes, perms, relaxers) as this can contribute to heat and chemical damage.

If you do your best to maintain all aspects of your health and hair care, yet you’re still worried … keep a journal of your symptoms. Keep track of what vitamins and supplements you’re taking, what foods you are consuming and the level of hair shedding you notice. Recording these things will be able to help determine if this is just a phase of the post-partum period, or if it’s something more such as post-partum thyroiditis. 

If you or a loved one thinks you are experiencing this, connect with us for a one-on-one consultation.

​Have you ever wondered what your hair would say if it could talk? Well, it may not be able to speak, but it certainly has it’s own personality. Each and every one of us has distinct characteristics that make us unique and so does our hair! 

When looking specifically at one of the most misconceived hair types, ethnic hair, there are differences in the nature of the hair fiber and hair care needs that truly make it like no other.

What is ethnic hair?
African American and bi-racial hair textures are usually referred to when describing ethnic hair. Often times, the nature of ethnic hair is curly, ranging from loose curls to tight coils. The spiral, spring shaped strands are typically born out of curly, flat hair follicles. Research shows that African American hair produces more oils and sebum compared to any other group. But, because the hairs are coiled shape, it prevents the oils from getting evenly distributed, which can result in dry, damage-prone hair. These unique characteristics make it especially important for those with ethnic hair to practice optimal hair care methods. 

How do you care for ethnic hair? 
To prevent over-drying ethnic hair, it is ideal to avoid frequent washing. A good wash one to two times a week is plenty enough and should always be followed up with moisturizers such as conditioner and oils. When it comes to blow-drying and straightening hair, letting the hair air dry or sitting under a heated dryer will help to prevent damage that can occur from stressing hair when wet, which is its most fragile state. Protective styles such as braids and properly installed weaves are options that help to shield natural hair from being exposed to outside elements. Weaves or braids that are too tight or too loose can pull on the hair and can contribute to hair thinning or hair loss. You can achieve the best care for your hair by practicing good maintenance and making occasional appointments with a licensed hair care professional. 

Is ethnic hair prone to loss and thinning?
There are myths that “ethnic hair can’t grow long and healthy”. Generally, it grows at the same rate as other hair types, but due to the fragile and dry nature of the hair, it can break just as fast as it grows. There are ways to avoid breakage, hair loss and thinning. And for those who have already had bad hair experiences, there are a number of options to restore and repair it. Although, there is no miracle potion that will fix damaged here, there are professionals who specialize in hair restoration who can help. Most treatments for hair loss begins with a consultation. By finding out what’s stressing your strands, a trichologist can help you choose the right solution. Some solutions may include laser therapy, hair supplements, regularly scheduled visits and more.

If you are interested in finding out the best way to care for your hair type, request an appointment at info@mcbridehair.com for a consultation with certified trichologist, CEO of Global Trichology Training, Donyelle Mcbride.