Romi Cortier

Hi Cheryl, Don't worry if your pockets aren't deeply lined. A good salon with integrity will treat you the same, regardless of how much you do or don't tip. As a stylist for many years, I completely understand that some people have more money than others. I'd rather have a client who shows up on time and is a pleasure to have in my chair, than someone who comes in and throws their money around and treats people badly... I've fired clients for that very reason. Don't give up till you find the salon that feels right for you.

Yes. Two separate tips are best. However, remember to take a look at the cost of each service and tip accordingly. If your colorist charges twice what your cutter charges, then their gratuities should NOT be equal. I've also heard of situations where clients feel 'tipped out' because they've tipped the assistant(s), the cutter, the colorist etc. As a stylist/colorist I make a fair amount of money on my services, therefore, if you feel you need to make a choice about whom to tip, go with the assistant (provided you like their care). You can bet their hourly wage is much less, and they'll greatly appreciate the extra cash.

Hi Jillian, I'm someone who has followed a lot of these trends for the last 20+ years. Sometimes they work, sometimes they don't. If you're a person who's healthy and in good shape, then your body might be able to tolerate the stress of these things. However, if you're body's been pushed to the edge, then some of these things might put you over. And once your body breaks down, it can take years to get your health back. I know, because I've been there. Therefore, approach these things with common sense, and caution. The number one best thing you can do for you body is to get 8 hours of sleep every night. It gives your system a chance to rejuvenate and clean itself out naturally. Too many vitamins, and too many 'cleansers,' can put stress on your body. The second item for good health is clean water. I'm lucky enough to have found an authentic chinese accupressurist who I see every other week. By looking at the tongue, and reading the multiple delicate pulses around the wrist area, she can diagnose if the liver, kidneys, spleen etc. are out of balance. Her gentle technique of rebalancing the body has given me more energy than any vitamins (and I've spent thousands on them) ever has. As a stylist behind the chair, I get exposed to everything you can imagine. And even with this year's brutal cold and flu season, I came out smelling like a rose. Therefore, if you're inclined to pursue alternative care, find someone who you can trust to gently, and affordably, guide you through. Otherwise it may cost you more than you ever imagined.

If your gray hair is looking dull, it could be from a number of reasons. Cigarette smoke, chemicals in your water, or a product build up on the hair. Some solutions: A shower head filter that twists on between the pipe and shower head. Typically they're about $30, and have replaceable carbon cartridges that need to be replaced monthly. A weekly clarifying and chelating product, such as ENJOY's Clarifying Spray. This type of product removes mineral deposits, chlorine and other impurities in the hair, as well as product build up that can dull the hair. If you're considering one of those purple shampoos to whiten your hair, such as Shimmer Lights, be very careful that you don't over do it. The theory is this: purple is opposite yellow on the color wheel, and will neutralize the yellow tone. However, I've seen so many people get carried away with this and end up with purplish colored hair. A gentler solution might be to try a salon grade shampoo for platinum hair, such as Goldwell's platinum shampoo and conditioner. It's a milder version of Shimmer Lights and less likely to make your gray hair look purple. If your hair is heavy salt and pepper with lots of dark tones, and you want it to look more silver, you might also try having highlights put onto the dark hair. This typically has to be done with bleach, and the hair must be lightened to almost the white stage. Keep in mind, with a process like this, you might run the risk of breakage if the hair is over bleached. Maintain it at home with the platinum products mentioned above.

Hi Connie, If your hair is getting noticeably thinner in a short period of time, you might want to go straight to your doctor. Frequently when my clients have had these problems, it's either had to do with hormone levels or thyroid issues. If this is the case, once resolved, then the hair that you've lost will grow back. If your doctor says that you're in good shape and everything checks out ok, then I would consider a new hair loss program for you that might include: Rogaine for women, Omega 3/6/9 oil with Borage oil (taken internally by capsule, or by the tablespoon), MAURO Tricologia Scalp cleanser to cleanse the hair follicle twice weekly, and then a shampoo for hair loss, such as MURAD or Nioxin. About two years ago a client of mine went through a horrendous early menopause. Little did I know she was barely eating, and drinking wine and martinis to cope with her emotions. After she stopped drinking and started eating, she got the fullest head of hair I'd ever seen on her in 10 years. Therefore, be willing to look at your general nutrition and vitamin supplements. It all adds up. Good luck!