Hair expert Priscilla Corner on why these star styles are the most-copied

Amitabh Bachchan

His mass of thick, mildly wavy hair was worn parted and longer at the front with shorter layers brushing the neck. But not everyone had that kind of hair and not everyone could do that look, but his fans definitely didn’t think so!

John Travolta

From the slick back-brushed, very Italian stallion mane of Saturday Night Fever to the Elvis-inspired sideburns and quiff of the Grease series, John Travolta has used his thick dark hair to full advantage.

His style was a hit with the hip and happening brigade. It was also a sure shot way to floor the coolest chicks.

THE BEATLES

The Beatles unleashed the mop top — one of the most-copied hairstyles ever. The name is self-explanatory; take a look at a string mop and you’ll know. The back and sides were cut to medium length and the fringe was cut straight across.

Mithun

A wavy, shoulder-grazing mop cut in a 90-degree layered style, kept in check with a silver bandana, was Mithun Chakraborty’s much imitated haircut from the 1982 film Disco Dancer. His hairstyle was aspirational. It symbolised the disco era — dramatic, fun and very trendy.

Elvis Presley

The king of pop’s rocking style was dyed black from a mousy brown and was worn in the ducktail mode with a difference. It was styled with wax into a high pompadour which, with a little twist this way and that, saw it go from wow to wild. His mutton chop sideburns were a later addition. No one has ever pulled off a puff with more panache than Elvis.

Aamir Khan

Aamir has scripted his hair story as scrupulously as he has his film plots. Be it the Dil Chahta Hai spikes, the tentative quiff of Taare Zameen Par, the Ghajini buzz style or the flowing mane of Mangal Pandey, Aamir is the undisputed ‘Raja Hindustani’ of reinvention, using his hair as a prop. Each of his looks has been widely appreciated.

Princess Diana

Her trademark functional-yet-fab uniform layered, blonde, highlighted do framed her face to perfection. The front portion was often blow-dried away from her face, allowing for a love affair with the camera no other royal enjoyed then or has since. Princess Di’s hairstyle is ideal for those who want their thin hair to look fuller.

Amy Winehouse

This sky-high beehive is the result of some major backcombing and hair piece insertions. This has a serious going-out vibe. Very niche and very, very high-maintenance. Those who copy it scream ‘look at me’. Gutsy and glam.

Sadhana

Sadhana’s Audrey Hepburn-inspired short bangs were a bold styling move that quickly became her USP. She wore it very short initially and then longer and side-swept in later years. Her haircut was a boon for girls with wide foreheads and fine hair. It was just so versatile, looking equally great with western and ethnic clothes.

Meg Ryan

Her short layered style is played to maximum effect by strategically-placed highlights and the artful use of products that structure the wispy strands outward. This look is not for everyone though. You have to be impish, cheeky and definitely quaint and quirky. Meg Ryan had once commented that it looked like she was having a long bad hair day!

Rekha

She broke free from the bouffant, beehives and wigs, so popular with her predecessors. Rekha often wore her one-length wavy hair open, or draped dramatically over one shoulder. She made the most of what she had. Rekha’s hair was not perfect and that is what clicked with scores of Indian women. If she took it on the side, they took it to the side. If she tied it in a plait, they followed suit.… Rekha knew how to manipulate her long locks and taught many fans how to do just that.

Dimple

For Dimple Kapadia’s crowning glory, you definitely need good genes. But a low layered cut enhanced the flow of her thick, sensuous, cascading locks. Add to that some masterful blow-drying and Velcro rollers, and here was the ultimate auburn head that everyone died for but couldn’t own. Oh the sea, the music and Dimple running on the sands, tossing her tresses this way and that....

Jennifer Aniston

Hers is the iconic Rachel cut, made famous by her girl-next-door character from Friends. It’s a short-to-mid-length version of the square layered style. The popularity of the Rachel cut is mostly because of its user-friendliness. Anyone can copy it. And it’s so low-maintenance!

 

Nutritionist Hena Nafis on what you should eat for a head of healthy hair

 

Fish: Fish is one of the healthiest sources of protein, which provides amino acids that are essential for the growth of hair cells. Inadequate protein intake can cause hair loss and slow growth. Oily fish contains fats such as Omega-3, which makes your tresses bouncy, keeps them smooth and prevents dryness. Deficiency in essential fatty acids can lead to dandruff. If fish is not your thing, go for a fish oil supplement.

Soya bean: This is rich in amino acid lysine, which is a necessary building block for all proteins in the body. It is important for your overall growth, including hair. Lysine also helps create Ferritin (iron), which enhances hair growth. Cheese of all types is another source of lysine.

Dry-roasted peanuts: The high content of biotin in peanuts helps arrest premature greying. So regular supplementing of biotin controls greying. Brittle hair and hair fall (in patches) are signs of biotin deficiency. Other sources of biotin are hazelnuts, almonds, egg yolk, sesame seeds and cottage cheese. Biotin-enriched shampoos help fight brittle hair.

Eggs: One of the top sources of sulphur, which is vital for the production of keratin, a protein that enhances the hair structure. Sufficient intake of sulphur-rich food ensures growth and maintenance of healthy hair and nails.

Almonds: Rich in the powerful antioxidant vitamin E. Almonds can protect your hair from free radical damage caused by UV rays, pollution and stress. They also enhance blood circulation to the scalp, providing nourishment to the hair.

Dates: Rich in iron which is carried to the hair follicles. Lack of iron can cause breakage and hair loss. Raisins, prunes, dark leafy vegetables, amla (Indian gooseberry) and red meat are good sources of iron too.

Water: Whether your hair will be supple or not depends on the water content of the hair strands. Water makes up one-fourth of each hair strand. If you don’t drink enough water, the strands develop split ends and become brittle. So, maintain water balance in your hair by drinking at least eight to 10 glasses a day.

Guava: It contains vitamin C in abundance, which helps prevent split ends. Split ends make hair look unhealthy and cause hair fall. Guava also helps in the absorption of iron, a vital nutrient for hair health.

Pumpkin seeds: If your hair never seems to grow despite oiling and taking great care, it is certainly due to the lack of zinc in your diet. Zinc tackles dandruff and alleviates dryness. Pumpkin seeds — rich in zinc — in your diet lead to long and lustrous tresses. Other good sources of zinc are beef, lamb and sardines.

Dermatologist Sachin Varma tells you how to manage your mane

At the end of the day, it’s nothing more than dead tissue, but it’s amazing how much it matters to people. Having great hair is a statement about yourself, your personality and sometimes, your health. A change of style becomes a point of discussion among friends and family, and in the case of a celebrity, it can hog headlines. Remember M.S. Dhoni’s buzz cut after the World Cup triumph? Or Aamir Khan’s look in Ghajini?

Hair fall is often equated with a loss of identity. Which is why there’s cause to get worried when this happens. But be warned! Lots of products in the market make unscientific claims. There are also many myths doing the rounds about hair fall. Here are answers to some questions about your hair.

Hair fact

Hair is a slender, thread-like outgrowth from the skin. It is present all over the body except on the palms and soles. The average adult head has about 100,000 to 150,000 strands. All your hair goes through a three-phase process of growth, transition and rest, before it is shed and replaced by new strands.

Hair loss

Firstly, check if the hair loss is normal. Hair fall can vary from one individual to another and in different seasons. On an average, a person loses 100 strands a day.

• If you’re on a crash diet, stop it immediately.

• Avoid excessive use of cosmetics.

• If hair loss persists, it may be because of some internal disease, vitamin and iron deficiency, hormonal imbalance, scalp infection or genetic problem. Consult a doctor and get to the root of the problem. Remember, most hair loss is controllable and can be reversed.

Dry lacklustre hair

This indicates dehydration of hair. To address this problem:

• Drink more water.

• Check nutritional status for deficiencies. Stop crash diets if you’re on one.

• Check your shampoo and conditioner. It could be that you need a more nourishing conditioner.

• Stop cosmetic abuse, straightening and colouring.

• Take biotin and hair mineral supplements.

• Increase milk, poultry, fish and nut intake.

Breakage and split ends

The primary component of hair fibre is keratin, a group of proteins. Certain bonds within the keratin molecules are very strong and difficult to break, which is a key factor behind the durability and resistance of hair fibres. It’s only when these bonds weaken due to chemical abuse, nutritional deficiency or heat, that hair starts breaking. To prevent hair breakage and split ends:

• Stay away from heat irons and chemicals.

• Don’t overdo procedures like straightening and colouring.

• See if your shampoo is too strong for you, making your hair dry.

• Talk to a dermatologist to check for vitamin, iron and protein deficiencies.

• Stop blow-drying.

• Biotin supplement are helpful.

• Trimming might help; ideally trim once in four to six weeks.

Greying of hair

The colour of hair fibres comes from a pigment called melanin, produced by cells at the hair root. Hair colour is genetically determined. Greying happens when there is decreased melanin distribution to the hair fibre. It occurs in old age but may also happen in case of vitamin and protein deficiencies, leucoderma or as a result of the toxic effect of drugs, pollution or cosmetic abuse. Most people start greying from the age of 30. If a person starts greying in childhood or in the 20s, it is termed premature greying. Most cases of premature greying are genetic and little can be done about it.

In case of premature greying

• Check for iron, vitamin and protein deficiencies.

• Stop cosmetic abuse and bleaching.

• Check for hormonal imbalance.

• Take calcium pantothenate supplements.

Dandruff

It is natural for some skin cells to go dry and flake off. When there’s an increase in the number of cells flaking off and accumulating in clumps, it’s called dandruff. To tackle dandruff:

• Use an anti-dandruff shampoo twice a week till dandruff is there and then once a week to prevent recurrence.

• Ideally one should leave the shampoo on the scalp for five to ten minutes before washing off.

• Avoid very hot or very cold water during bathing.

• Keep scalp clean. Don’t use too much of oil or gel.

• If dandruff persists, consult a doctor, as you may be suffering from seborrhoeic dermatitis or psoriasis.

Day-to-day hair care tips:

Shampoo

• Shampooing removes dirt, dead skin cells, hair oil and other hair products you may be using.

• Choice of shampoo should be based on your scalp type — oily, dry or normal. If unsure, use a mild shampoo.

• Use as and when hair is dirty. There is no rule as to how many times one should shampoo in a week.

• Generally, shampooing twice a week removes dirt and sweat.

• Always use a conditioner after shampooing. It will remove excess shampoo, moisturise the hair, making it easier to untangle and giving it a shine.

Hairdryers

• Avoid using hairdryers too frequently.

• Don’t hold it too close to the hair.

• Move it continuously so that hair of one area does not get overheated

Combing

• Hair is most fragile when wet, so avoid brushing wet hair.

• Serums are best to remove tangles from hair. Fingers or wide-toothed combs can be used; be gentle to avoid breakage. Detangle before shampooing as it makes post-shampoo detangling easier

• Avoid using a rubber band to tie your hair as it can pull and damage a few strands each time you remove it.

Hairstyling products

Avoid cosmetics (gel, spray) that have alcohol as it dries the hair.

Caps

Don’t wear tight-fitting caps as they block air circulation and cause build-up of sweat and grime.

Hairstyles

Don’t tie your hair too tightly as the pull may lead to hair loss.

Hair colouring

Before you get down to choosing a colour, decide on your commitment to the change. Temporary colours wash out after shampooing once or twice, semi-permanent products typically last a couple of months, while permanent dyes may either give you grow-out pains or necessitate frequent root touch-ups.

• Colour your hair not more than once in two months. The process damages your hair, the less you do it the better.

• After colouring, use shampoos and conditioners prescribed by your hairstylist as it may make the colour last longer.

• If you have botched up a colour job, try rectifying it within 48 hours, as that’s the time the colour takes to seep into the cuticle.

FAQs and Myths:

Does frequent shampooing or using an unsuitable shampoo cause hair loss?

It can lead to hair becoming dry and limp, which can break easily, but shampooing does not cause hair loss.

Does excessive dandruff cause hair loss?

Dandruff can leave the hair dry and the scalp itchy, which can again cause breakage. But dandruff occurs on the scalp surface and cannot affect the roots; so it can’t directly cause hair loss.

Is henna good for hair?

It’s a colouring agent if left for long and a conditioner if left for a short while. It was used because not many refined products were available earlier, but with better products on the shelf now, it is nothing but a cheap alternative.

Does shaving the head or cutting hair help hair growth?

The hair is nothing but dead tissue. It may seem that cutting hair makes it thicker, but the hair follicles are not influenced by it.

Guys indulge! t2 gets the best buys for your mop

girls get gorgeous! T2 picks some pretty potions for your crowning glory

 

Blow-dry is a great diy beauty fix. Here’s how to get it right— at home!

There is no pick-me-up quite like a blow-dry. No dreaded frizz, your hair all straight and stylish or wavy and wow, that beautiful bounce and that oh-so-fresh smell. It’s a beauty appointment you just don’t want to miss! And you walk out of the salon feeling great about your hair and yourself. But sometimes salon trips are tough to squeeze into hectic days. And since blow-dry is one of the best DIY beauty fixes, all you need is the right gear and a few extra minutes. Hair expert Reshma Sambtani Daing puts down a guide.

The markets are flooded with a zillion hair dryers to choose from. There’s bonnet, ceramic, professional, portable and ionic. And we haven’t even started on the brands! But choosing the right dryer need not be a nightmare. Here are some tips to help you pick right:

• Wattage is important. It should be of at least 1,750 watt. For thick hair, you need a dryer of 1,900-2,000 watt.

• Considering the hair type is important. Those with curly hair should buy a dryer with diffuser.

• If you use your dryer to straighten your hair, go for ceramic and tourmaline technology (which promotes smooth and shiny hair as it emits negative ion crystals).

• Straight hair-nozzle is important.

• Your dryer must have variable speeds and heat control.

• Consider the weight of the dryer — heavy or light, depending on what you prefer.

Priyanka Chopra

With the perfect dryer in your dresser, all you need now is a set of simple steps to get started.

Step 1: Apply serum on wet hair from the root to the tip.

Step 2: Divide the hair into four parts. Section these off with clips.

Step 3: Begin with the back section and use a paddle brush to straighten the hair. Use a round brush to give the hair texture and volume.

TOP TIP: Pull the brush down the hair shaft while aiming the blow-dryer from above. Pointing the heat down the hair shaft will create a smoother look. Use medium heat and low speed to avoid damaging your hair.

Repeat step 3 until every section is dry and straight.

KEEP THESE HANDY

• Straightening balm
• Blow-dryer
• Heat protection spray or anti-frizz serum
• l Towel
• Shampoo
• Deep conditioner
• Ceramic flat iron