I am officially excited to have come across the type of beautiful hairbrush that is perfect for gray hair. It is a boar bristle brush made of beechwood. If you have learned anything about your gray hair, it is that it is more fragile and prone to breakage when roughly treated. Boar bristles with nylon will glide through your hair. The wooden base feels comfortable and luxurious.
Sharp plastic and artificial materials on the brush will not be kind to your hair. So I wanted to create this post to showcase a lovely hairbrush and comb set which is also reasonably priced!
Natural boar bristles and European beechwood backing make this gorgeous brush a real find
The boar bristles are combined with Nylon ones. The comb is a useful tool for me -not only to clean hair from the brush, but to lift sections when styling my hair. I see more hair loss than I’d like in my brush, especially when the seasons change. Reducing hair breakage is a definite goal.
I have used this oval paddle type of brush for many years, it is my go-to. When drying my hair, I do use a round brush (also with boar bristles). However, lately, I see that this hairbrush shape is useful in drying your hair as well.
It works well with my lightly wavy locks, although usually I go for a straight , smooth finished look . That is, when bothered enough to actually style my hair. The best advice is to get a good haircut from a stylist you trust. Then it is easy to just brush and go….
Boar Bristle Brush & Comb Styling Routine➰🫶🏼 This is probably my favorite way for the past couple years to style my curls by using the Denman boar bristle brush and a comb to create the shiniest ringlets possible. It’s definitely more time consuming, but if you have been feeling like loving on your curls lately, the results can be really worth it🥰 The key with any brush styling is to apply tension to create curl clumps and then if the clump looks a little too large you can separate it with a comb. That’s the easiest way to put it! I find I do get better results when I use the bristle in smaller sections than large ones…always good if you’re in a hurry though!! When it comes to “scrunch out the crunch”, I’ll go for it after if I’m using a strong hold gel like I am here and other times I’ll just use less oil for a lighter hold gel, be gentler, or leave a slight cast if I want it to last even longer(like in warmer months). Products used to style: Curlsmith Shine Cream (adds great slip for brush styling) Innersense I Create Hold (new favorite strong hold gel) Bread Hair Oil (scrunches out the crunch) #brushstyling#shinycurls#denmanbrush#curlyhair#curlyhairtutorial#curls#curlyhairroutine#hairtutorial#curltok
I am ashamed to say that I tend to keep brushes much past their “sell-by” date. A new brush is really a treat to use. I realize that some antique implements are still useful, but when you wish to upkeep scalp cleanliness, a new, easy to clean, hair tool is the way to go.
Why Choose Boar Bristles?
The hair of boarsa type of wild pig closely resembles a human’s. A brush made from them will gently detangle and distribute hair oils for a healthier scalp and better looking strands.
They feel good. That’s a great reason for using them.
It is best to not soak your wooden boar bristle brush in water- that could loosen the bristles and damage the wood. Instead, quickly wash and dry.
I hope you enjoy your new hairbrush. Maybe you will like it so much, you’ll want to buy one as gift for a bestie in your life.
I actually became aware of BB creams by reading a review about them, and since then have tried a few brands. I have been purchasing the Garnier brand, despite a few detours trying out other brands, because of its skin enhancing qualities.
Updated to add: Garnier no longer makes a BB cream. I have been able to purchase on amazon, but not in the stores. I will be making more BB/CC cream reviews to inform readers on what is working for me in 2024 and beyond.
What Do I Like About This BB Cream?
Garnier makes theirs with a smooth application, it glides on.
I like the smell of the product
It is something between a cream and a makeup giving decent coverage to my aging skin
Sun protection!
I think it improves my skin. There doesn’t seem to be anything that is “not to like“, although my daughter considers it a little too “heavy”. I don’t agree, but thought it might help someone who is looking for the lightest possible feel. She likes Aveeno Positively Radiant moisturizer instead.
I’ve also used “CC” creams (Read on for comparison of the two types).
But again, I like this brand of tinted cream better for everyday wear.
I feel it protects my skin when I go outdoors (which is often, given that I’m an avid gardener), and it is moisturizing. It has a sunscreen level of 15, which is enough for most of the year in my Northern climate.
I use separate sunscreen to boost the protection in summer and when I go to sunnier climes.
More To Like
Easily available, and it is economical. I think the price point is important. Why spend more for products when Garnier has created a BB cream that works, feels good on your skin, improves it, and smells nice? I spend more on a full coverage makeup, but this is the tube I grab on most days, and sometimes use it as a prep for other liquid makeup.
A comparable product, L’Oreal brand is one I have also used and I didn’t like it nearly as well. Compared to Garnier it felt dry and powdery on my skin, with its medium shade too light. So I went back to using that bright gold tube with the grass green logo which I started out with. My Curated Older Woman Beauty kitHow To Describe it? Remember those sheer makeups that came out years ago? I always liked them and this product looks very much the same. They even out my tone, which in aging skin like mine has sun damage, gets dry easily, and needs some under-eye lightening. When I use this cream it smooths out that unevenness.
It goes on quickly and doesn’t look streaky . Yes, some products with pigments look a bit streaky when not taking time to blend in, but this one doesn’t need that extra step, which makes it great for busy mornings.
BB cream and Little Else
A daytime application for “out and about” in a botanical garden.
I no longer wear much makeup in my daily routine: this cream and a swipe of lipstick is about it!
A Few Tips For Getting a Great Look
Apply in layers until you get the coverage wanted
Apply with your fingers, it goes on easily
Blend, if desired, with cosmetic sponge or Kabuki makeup brush
I also use it to cover imperfections elsewhere on the body (mosquito bites, etc!)
*I noticed that the demonstrations in the videos on this page often use blender brushes.
I have made the Garnier brand of B.B. cream one of the top choice products for my makeup bag for traveling.
BB stands for “Beauty Balm”
BB vs CC Cream
What is the difference between these two types of products?
BB creams are lighter than foundation but heavier than tinted moisturizers
CC cream has a fluffier feel, while BB feels more like a moisturizer
CC stands for “color correction” and theoretically provides more coverage
The OPINION Report
Have you tried this cream? Do you like it?
I do recommend this one. Try it out for little cost. You might stick with this choice like I have, or move on to more expensive brands, but I think you will like BB creams.
How to Apply BB Cream
Basically, smooth on the first coat just like tinted moisturizer. Then add additional thin layers to areas where more coverage is needed. For spots or blemishes, dab on extra coats with the tip of your finger and feather it invisibly into the surrounding skin.
This video illustrates the technique:
BB Creams I Didn’t Like
For comparison sake: from L’Oreal
I also tried L’Oreal’s, and did not like it very well. Although the white color from the tube turned to the proper shade on my face, it felt all chalky and unpleasant. It went on more heavy, too. In comparison, the Garnier brand felt more like a tinted moisturizer.
I also did not care for the smell of this product.
From Hydroxatone
I also tried this brand, which I purchased at Costco (also available online). It had a dry application that felt and smelled a little like something “plastic”. The color was dark and not completely natural for me.
On the plus side it has a stronger sun protection, which is why I purchased it. I still chose the Garnier brand!
If you decided to go silver, winter is time to love your gray hair and take care of it. That includes protection from the elements, using the right hair care products, and styling.
Now that I have spent a number of years allowing my hair to grow into its natural silver and white, it is time to spill the beans on the realities of keeping my mane looking its best.
Problems and solutions follow, along with some hairstyle looks for inspiration.
As Years Go By
Do I still love it? Yes, going gray was one of the best beauty decisions of my fifties. Has it rendered my haircare totally carefree? No.
I should get my haircut refreshed far more often than I do. What a difference a professional cut can make- giving shape and movement to create a more lively look.
I have also learned the hard way that a pennies amount of protection and prevention is worth a pound of cure when it comes to maintaining the good looks of gray.
I continue to seek the perfect style. (I am starting to believe this dissatisfaction has more to do with losing bodyweight than fixing my hair.) I did want to update a few of the tips which have stood me in good stead for that past few years.
I have had some challenges as a Silver Fox that I never had when I was a Brunette.
The most irksome:
Yellowing. This is the worst problem and the one which has been hardest to deal with.
Flyaways and thinning, related to aging, rather than the color; but requiring care and products to manage.
Challenges of growing it long and keeping it looking good.
Those have to be the top three problems for most gray locks ( except for the last one, not everyone wants to have long hair!).
Silver Styling
This is the default long bob hairstyle, that I will ask my hairdresser to use if the longer lengths do not work out.
Short Gray Hair
Not everyone needs or wants to chop the length, but it is one way to deal with the above named topknot troubles. It was easiest for me to maintain shine and silveriness when I had a mid-length bob.
Cutting off hair that has been damaged by the elements or heat styling is a tried and true way to control the dryness and discoloration.
It also gives a fresh new look that is instantly rejuvenating.
Love Really Short Hair?
Pixie for over 60
Growing It Long
source: pixabay.com
I know there are many women, like me, that see those gorgeous long locks of shining gray hair. It is so tempting to desire those below the shoulder lengths.
So I gave in, after two or three false starts, and began to grow out the length of my hair. I must be honest and say that the results are mixed. I haven’t given up yet, but if I remain ambivalent about this look, I will go back to the smooth, mid-length pageboy.
I like this loose, slightly wavy style.
What Is My Beef with Body?
Thinning means less hair to give “body” to a style, and I have had layers put in to keep the style from going flat. Layers, however, can be more prone to flyaways when the weather turns cold (a trial for all types of hair).
Tame Flyaways
Serums are still the best bet for taming flyaway hair, although hair pomade like Alberto VO5 works, too. Beware of too much which can weigh down and flatten your style.
Have you tried to grow out your silver locks? What were your hurdles?
Stop Turning Yellow!
Clarify
I admit it, I didn’t use the color correcting products as often in the past year. The shampoo and conditioner formulated for gray hair make a huge difference under most circumstances.
I had an experience with battling a bout of yellowing after a beach vacation two years ago. I am convinced that using sun protection would have prevented it. I even went to my stylist and had a “Malibu Treatment” at the time, but I felt the results were negligible. Perhaps it will work better for you?
So far, the best antidote has been Paul Mitchell’s Platinum Plus line.The company has changed the look of the packaging, but this shampoo remain the top choice for silvery locks. In the future I will make a review comparing and contrasting several product lines, but this is my top tip so far. Buy Now
Natural Tip
Try rinsing with the juice of a lemon added to two cups of water. It will help clarify and brighten.
I have to contend with hard water, exposure to the elements ( LOVE being outdoors), what are your bug-a-boos? City pollution? Certain hair products? Chlorine?
UhOh Argan Oil
Maybe this personal anecdote is silly, but every time I used Argan oil, which makes hair very soft and pretty and is good for skin, I noticed a yellow cast to my hair. Hard water is also an issue in my area, but I believe the Argan oil was yellowing. Coconut oil is a better solution when moisturizing hair.
Alberto VO5 for gray hair has been my go-to for smoothing when styled, but I like natural oils for occasional replenishing.
Gray is the New Blonde
The longevity of the gray Celebrity fashion has been a happy circumstance. More and more models and actors display silvery manes. It is no longer remarkable when seeing women “of a certain age” with natural looking hairdos.
The beauty of maturity is accepted and even celebrated, though I believe we have a ways to go in appreciating the middle-aged and aged.
A few highlights for a vibrant look in maturity:
Keep the style “young”, but not faddish.
Maintain hair health, whether short or long.
Good grooming is always in style, don’t go for frumpish.
Shampoo often
Protect from too much sun and heat.
Take vitamins- good looks are from the inside out!
Find the products that work best for you- experiment.
I hope these tips, styles, and reminders are helping you keep up appearances in the best possible way. I love my gray hair and would never go back to the artificial coloring regimen. I think it has the lighthearted feel of a Blonde, with the intelligence attributed to the Brunette, and an attitude of confidence all its own.
When I was a young woman I regularly used a facial steamer. It lasted me for many years… Until one of my teenagers rendered it unusable (don’t ask me how! I have no idea).
I recently decided it was time to begin facial steaming again.
Years ago, it was a Conair brand that served me well. Now I wished for some updated features.
In my research into reviews, the “KINGDOMCARES NanoSteamer” came up regularly. I like the features, although it came with a few negatives. Comments such as ” water reservoir was too small”, or complaints about plastic odor were offputting.
Pure Daily Care Nanosteamer
It was a close runner up to the one I have decided to purchase which is the “Pure Daily Care Nanosteamer“. Two features tipped the balance:
Long running time (up to 30 minutes)
Towel warming feature
This steamer comes with a bonus (extraction tools), but that did not weigh into my decision. It was named in the short lists for a number of recommended steamers, although never as #1 choice; Panasonic brand rated more highly, but was twice the price.
This appliance’s moderate price was a factor for me.
I would have liked the addition of aromatherapy features, but decided the quality of the steam, reliability of machine outweighs that addition of having essential oils at this time.
Most all of the steamers recommend using distilled water to reduce calcium buildup. Many customers of different brands reported problems if they used oils or tap water water. For aromatherapy, it seems best to use an appliance specifically for that purpose.
Lighted Magnifying Mirrors
My mother always had magnifying mirrors, so this was not new for me. What was new is the revelation of how important a lighted mirror with good magnification would be for aging eyes.
In a guest bathroom, a whole new view was revealed when I saw myself in a lighted 10X Vanity mirror. Hairs to pluck! Skin texture to exfoliate!
I knew it was time to order a mirror, and I knew which features I wanted:
high magnification
lighting
with a cord
one with good reviews
I ended up with two mirrors, one ordered from Amazon, and one my husband picked up at Costco. Read my comparisons here.
Conair Oval Vanity Mirror
After much research I bought a Conair brand mirror that had less magnification, but better looks. Initially, I wasn’t as happy with my choice, but after use it has proved its assets.
This is the exact one I bought. I love the Satin Nickel finish. It is a very good looking mirror, and the lighting is pleasing. At first I felt the 7X was not strong enough magnification, but I believe this is one of the best mirrors to buy after a couple months of actually using it.
The Costco Mirror
I am less happy with this one. It was very economical ( which is why my husband bought it), but it has a buzz that is unpleasant when the light is on. The lighting is also very harsh and bothers my eyes. The 10X is useful, and I do use the mirror, but the glass quality seems lacking.
It is definitely a case of “you get what you pay for”.
Why Have Beauty Appliances?
In this time of life when my major goal is “divesting”, it is fair to ask why I am buying more appliances. I’ve done fine without them for so long…. why now?
For the mirrors, my aging eyes have had increasing trouble seeing my face for beauty regimens, including putting on makeup. The magnifying mirror with good light is a necessity. More important than a hairdryer, for me.
The steamers serve more than one purpose, and these things have to do with luxury and comfort. In a way, it is also more economical to give myself a facial than to spend extra on spa services. The steamers are good for home health, since they moisturize the air and skin.
So what appliances do you now feel are necessities for you? One of these or something else? Leave a comment to tell me about your favorites.
A woman’s love for shoes is well known, but what about the beauty of those feet inside the shoes? The finishing touch for a pedicure, the toes peeking out from sandals, and otherwise unadorned feet on the beach all deserve a little attention that comes from pretty polish.
Top Trends for Spring
In spring and summer those sandals shod or otherwise bare feet are on full display.
FOR fall/winter 2017
During the winter season, hands take center stage with bling, deep color, contrasts, and matte looks..
What colors are trendy? Which ones are classic? Nothing is easier to change and experiment with than nail polish.
So I thought I’d gather together a few of the thousands of choices available.
Whether you give yourself a home pedicure, or book a professional salon, these are the colors and looks to get for this year.
Trends
https://youtu.be/-YbxcAU7jKs
My Favorite Nail Polish Color
What is your favorite manicure style?
photo by lloria
Trendy Colors
What’s The Newest Fashion?
For 2016, gray and metal have gone to chrome. Ombre is taking the Pantone duo of Serenity blue and Rose quartz and mixed them one into the other. Yellow appears for spring.
Going into fall, matte looks and geometrics with bling are on trend. Take the ombre idea and make it matte with your fav wardrobe colors.
~~~~~~~~~
2015…
There are always seasonal changes, deeper colors for fall/winter and lighter ones for spring/summer, but what about fashion forward trends?
The buzz: BLUES are big. For 2015, it was cobalt, specifically. Freshen up your blues with this strong color that fairly sings (like a bluebird?). It will make you feel happy.
Autumnal shades are also a beautiful look. Try them in sheers or marbled looks.
Then there is the true gray color that has the same effect as the Gothic black (which is still popular), but looking newer.
For Spring?
Look for pinks, gray and neutrals, pastels on a sheer base for an almost nude look.
found on topteny.com
Lots Of Matte Look
Some say adding eye shadow or cornstarch to polish gives you the effect. For 2016, it is back to black
Tantalized?
These were the Top Ten looks for 2016:
Navy with sparkles
Milky white, Creamy Beige opaques
Unusual French Nail Colors
Nail art.
Silver Metallics
Apple Red
Seafoam Green
Glitter
Gloss finishes
Geometric and Abstract designs
For 2017: Keep the Navy, Get Edgier With the Art
Found on wewomen.com: this deep blue was popular for 2015. Update the design with vintage or geometric asymmetry.
Past Looks, Which Will Stay?
How it looks in 2016:
Gorgeous Red takes on a pure red apple look.
Nail Art goes to the art museums for abstracts, 3D, and geometrics.
For 2015: Gorgeous Red…. Dreamy Creamsicle Orange…. Super Natural…. Ballet Pink….
Get the picture? Classic reds, chic corals, soft pastels, and nudes are 2012’s colors. For 2013, the reds are tempered with art effects: half moon, racing stripes, and blood dripping art.
Get with 2015Â and use sheer colors, tribal or marbled painted look. Or sophisticated gold stripe across every nail.
Nudes which are strongly blush pink and milk white, nail art.
Black is still strong …Pearl effects …Skin matching …Racing Stripes … the verdict is IN.
New Looks
Pantone’s color of the year: Rose Quartz
Blues are navy.
Grays are charcoal.
Greens are seafoam.
Reds are apple.
Matte is Strong for 2016/17
DKNY matte nails
Green Tips
Monique Lhuillier, IMAXTREE
French Manicure – Is Back! But Different
The look of a French Manicure is classic and elegant. A natural colored nail with a white tip that is given a satin glaze.
The History of the French Manicure
Some stories tell it that Max Factor invented today’s “French Manicure” in the 1930s for Hollywood stars. It is one of the most requested nail designs.
This polish style had fallen out of favor with fashionistas, and the natural nail or black nail replaced it. The variation of the “American nail” with an off-white tip is considered more fashionable than stark white tips, today. And this is the basic way it has re-emerged.
For some, it was always be the favorite choice, and they will be happy this year.
The newest way to use a French nail look is with the edge stripe in pastels of green, blue, or pink. Fantastic art effects can also be found.
In 2016
It takes a new tack: tips are done in color. Emerald green made an appearance…
Give yourself a manicure?
The Frugal Way To Be Fashionable
Gather together:
Pack of cotton balls
Paper towels / Makeup removal pads
Nail polish remover
Nail polish
Emery board
Nail trimmer
Cuticle remover
LUSH has some of the most delicious products that are good for you and smell heavenly.
Soak hands in warm soapy water
Remove Nail Polish
Trim your nails
File your Nails
Remove Cuticles
Apply 2 Coats Nail Polish
Apply Lotion
A paraben-free formula with 14 natural oils including Jojoba oil, Almond oil, Evening Primrose oil and now Argan oil and Borage oil. Zeva creates this luxurious emollient in a convenient pen applicator.
Keep your cuticles cared for – These are the best beauty buys for nails
Reading the advice of top manicure experts, you will no doubt come across recommendations for the best nail care products. The implements and time saving ways to keep your nails in top form. Take some time to look over these selected nail care products for gift ideas or to give your own nails the care they deserve.
Best way to Accessorize?
Cute manicures and pedicures!
Sanitation Is Important
At home, but especially when using a salon, remember to keep implements clean and sanitized for good foot health.
When was the last time you had your nails done?
Maybe its time to get a pretty pedicure
Maybe you are like me and tend to forget about your nails until there is a special event… like a wedding or a vacation where you will wear sandals, and you think, “Oh no, I need to do something for my nails!” Now, with all the pretty nail polish colors available, and the relaxing experience of a pedicure or a manicure, maybe it is time to put an appointment with a salon on your schedule a little more often. It isn’t a big thing, or an expensive thing, but the time spent grooming and painting your nails can add a little good feeling into your day.
photo by “Multiple fragments of tissue”
More than just a chance to pamper yourself, it can be a part of your health regimen. Cleaning with proper cutting and clipping of the nails can prevent ingrown toenails and infections. This is doubly important if you suffer from a condition like diabetes. If you opt for the professional pedicure or manicure, a massage is often included which improves the blood circulation.
Probably the most important concern is not the choice of a pretty polish color, but of the sanitation practices of the salon. You can always bring your own polish color, but the conditions of the facility is far more important for the health of your feet.
Blue – Can still be found, but the newest trend is Navy
Pretty Colors From OPI
Love their colors, their quality, but admitting that their whimsical color names have something to do with it,too!
Look for blushy pinks, matte neutrals, and bold metallics
Try their “local” color collections: Hawaii, San francisco, New Orleans…
Best Colors in a Mini Collection
No need for a big bite out of your budget when you want to experiment with the trends in nail color.
Small sizes of polish give clear opportunity to try out a look before spending money.
Prettiest summer colors including trends of the right red and the new green.
Vintage Trends through the Years
Polished with Color or Natural? – Which manicure would you opt for?
Which do you think is better? Polished or natural nails?
How to Manicure Your Nails
When Only Sexy Deep Red Will Do – A dark red nail may be the classic sultry look
Oxblood is still IN. You might want to step up the brightness to an Apple red for summer and in keeping with the latest fashion looks.
What if you want to go lighter, but still give your nails a rich color? The color of the year is “Rose Quartz”, which is a dusty pink. Consider giving it some glitter or opal effect.
A color that will take you far this summer is the new beige or a charcoal gray.
Take a look at your wardrobe colors and pick a trend that is a versatile harmony with the colors you will be wearing this summer.
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