Client Hair Stories*

Story 1
My daughter and her friend braided their hair and it turned out pretty good. The problem is that they used vaseline to do it and the vaseline did not want to come out of her hair when she washed it. How do we get the vaseline out of her hair?

Harry's Answer

• Blot and pat as much of the Vaseline from the hair as possible using a paper towel. Do not rub (to avoid damaging) the hair.
• Blot or pat (do not rub) cornstarch or cornmeal powder to the hair that contains the Vaseline.
• Cover the entire area of Vaseline coated hair with a light amount of the cornstarch or cornmeal powder. Once the hair has been completely covered with the cornstarch or cornmeal powder step into a warm (not hot or cold) shower.
• Use a CLARIFYING shampoo (it will say that on the label) in the following way: Place the shampoo in the palms of your hands and then apply to the hair. Rinse with warm water (not hot or cold) until clear. Shampoo a second time, making sure that all the cornstarch and Vaseline are removed from your hair. Rinse with warm water (not hot or cold) until clear.
• Apply a good rinse out conditioner to your hair. This is important since the two applications of shampoo will tend to dry out most hair. Rinse well and do a cool or cold water final rinse.
• Towel blot hair (do not rub).
• Apply a detangler, pick out tangles and then let the hair air dry.
• Do this again in 24 hours if all the Vaseline is not removed during the first time. This should successfully eliminate all of the Vaseline residue.
• Cornstarch or cornmeal powder will act as a binding agent and by binding with the Vaseline it allows it to be carried out of the hair by the shampoo.
• Do NOT use baby powder or talcum powder for this process as it is too fine and could be inhaled into your lungs! YUCK!
  

Story 2
My husband uses the bar of soap in the bathtub to wash his hair. I don't think that is good. How can I get him to change?

Harry's Answer

Some men started this practice while in the military or during gym days when it wasn't considered "manly" to be dragging along a bottle of shampoo. Bar soap was not designed or formulated for the hair on top the head. It can be too alkaline, have too many extra things in its formula which will coat or weigh down the hair. Buy him some unscented shampoo based upon his hair type. When he sees that his hair has more shine and more body, he will feel younger and better about his hair. If he wants a "manly" cut, bring him to the salon. I also do flat-tops, military cuts, clipper cuts, tapers, and many other types of men's cuts.

Story 3
I have a real problem with flying bugs and my hair. Especially bees and mosquitoes. I wash my hair often. Is there anything I can do?

Harry's Answer

Stop using any citrus or flowery scented shampoo, conditioner, or styling products such as hair gel or hairspray. These type of products are just like hanging out a "free lunch" sign to bugs. If you are not using these type of products, try changing your perfume. Make sure that your stylist does not use these type of scented products on your hair.

Some people also have this issue with their skin; mosquitoes seem to love them while leaving other people alone. If that is the case, talk to a professional at a supplements or herbal store. There are products which will help modify (decrease) the "come bite-me scent" your body is generating.

* Answers are based upon Harry's personal opinion and 25+ years of experience. Answers contained within this web site are provided solely for your general information only. It is NOT intended, nor should it ever be construed as medical or beauty advice, and should not be depended upon as a substitute for any consultations with qualified health professionals.