If you are a hairstyle enthusiast then you probably know the importance of keeping your hair healthy.   Healthy hair is essential for looking your very best with any hairstyle.  Whether you have frizzy, dull, cracked, or damaged hair, you can take the necessary steps to get your luscious locks back to their original glory.  Here are some tips to help keep your hair brilliant and looking great.

Get regular trims – You might not realize it but hair grows pretty fast.  It is usually recommended to get a trim every four to eight weeks in order to maintain healthier hair.

Check your diet – This one you might not regularly think about.  Paying attention to what you are eating can play an important role in healthy hair and skin.  You may want to monitor your diet and try eating foods that are high in protein, omega 3, and vitamins.  Green veggies, nuts, grains, and types of fish can help promote healthier hair.

Deep Condition – Deep conditioning can help penetrate the scalp to strengthen and re-invigorate your hair.

Brush your hair before you shampoo – Brushing your hair before you shampoo can help stimulate the scalp, increase blood flow, and remove excess product buildup.

Don’t overdo it – Too much chemical treatment may create hair problems.

Most of us want to have stunning hair so that we can get a fabulous updo hairstyle, simple down hairstyle, or fancy curly “do”.  Whatever hairstyle you want to go with, it starts with having healthy hair.

The Oscars are only a few weeks away!  This is one of our favorite times of the year.  The red carpet is where we usually see some of the most fantastic celebrity updo hairstyles.  It is still a bit early to start speculating about who is going to be attending the Oscars.  We did hear that Jennifer Lopez will be there as a presenter.  J Lo usually stuns whenever she is on the red carpet.  We will no doubt be anticipating her hairstyle and of course, hoping she rocks an updo!

There are two beauties that we know are going to be at the Oscars for sure.  Rooney Mara and Michelle Williams are both nominated for best actress in a leading role.  Rooney has been getting a lot of attention since the nomination and all eyes will be on her dress and hairstyle on the big day.  We think Michelle Williams looks absolutely fabulous with an updo and cannot wait to see what she does at the Academy Awards.

We should be able to get a little better idea of the trends once we see all the celebs out on the red carpet at the Oscars.  We will be keeping a keen eye on all the hairstyles and as always, we plan to be amazed by some elegant updos.  Make sure to wear your favorite updo if you plan to attend an Oscar party of your own!

Here are a few UpdoGuru 2012 Oscar picks

Best Picture:   The Artist

Best Actor:  Brad Pitt

Best Actress:  Michelle Williams

There are certain occasions that call for a professionally crafted updo.  There are those other times that you want a great updo but don’t want to or can’t afford to spend the money.  If you like to get dressed up and regularly have a night out on the town, it can help to be able to do your own hair.  For someone who has never attempted to craft a styled updo on their own, it may seem difficult at first.  Don’t worry; with a little practice you can design an awesome look on your own.

One of the easier ones to try first is the messy updo.  A good place to start would be to apply some of your favorite volumizing mousse through your damp towel dried hair.  You can then brush out certain strands from your roots and curl the ends if desired.  Once you have the correct texture you can play with the top of your head to get the desired messiness.  Next you can pull the desired strands back into a loose bun at the back.  You can choose how high you want the bun to rest.  You may want to secure with some pins to help hold it in place.

Another easy updo to try is the top knot look.  This style seems to be picking up some popularity and steam as we head into 2012.  Getting this look should be fairly easy.  Simply pull your hair into a high ponytail and tighten it with some type of band.  Next you can twist the ponytail into the desired form on the top of your head.  Once you get the look, you may want to secure the top knot to help keep it in place.  You may want to use some hairspray for some added effect.  Feel free to play around with the shape of the top knot and have some fun!

Fast hair growth is definitely something that many people strive for. Women and some men dream of having long, luscious locks that they can color, style, and do with it what they please. Even if some people decide to get a cute short pixie cut, eventually, most times they are ready for the hair to grow long again. Many times women decide they want their hair longer when certain special events are coming up such as graduations, proms, weddings, and more. Many people experience those times when you want to have thick, flowing hair to either create a sexy, wavy look or an exquisite updo, and you wish your hair would grow back instantly!

Although you can be creative and find great hairdos and styles for short hair cuts, most people associate fabulous hairstyles with long hair. With long hair you have limitless fashions to pick from and many cool options. Long hair can be transformed into sleek, unique updos such as loose curly updos, sleek bun updos, half-up dos, braided updos, chignons, and much more. These updo designs are perfect when attending a special formal occasion as a guest or as the center of attention. There is no question that a bride can look cute and sassy with a pixy cut or short hairstyle, yet if you want to appear as the classy and traditional bride, we recommend you grow your hair out so you have more options for hairstyles for your big day.  Updos for long hair and medium hair updos can be a fantastic choice and provide many more options for a stunning look.

In order for your hair to grow faster, it is important that you ensure that your hair is healthy in the first place. Sometimes hair that has been chemically or color treated becomes damaged and unhealthy and broken and makes if difficult for the hair to grow. By eating a healthy diet full of nutrient and vitamin rich foods, you will most likely increase your chance of getting a full, thick, and shiny head of hair. Look for products that aid in preventing damage by sealing the follicles to protect them.

You can locate special vitamins and supplements at health food stores and vitamin shops that claim to assist in faster hair growth. Companies also offer special shampoos, conditioners, and deep conditioning formulas that declare fast hair growth results. Products with amino acids and natural botanicals are available that allegedly help to strengthen and thicken hair.

Often times, people get so caught up in finding the perfect hairstyle that they might not stop to think about the importance of finding a beauty salon or hairstylist that they can trust.  It can sometimes be a daunting task for those women who are very particular about their hair.

There are usually two main reasons (from personal client experience) that you may be looking to change hairstylists.  The first one is that you are unsatisfied with the results of your current stylist.  You may have had a stylist in the past who you really liked but they are not performing like they used to.  Things can happen, just keep in mind that we are all human.  The second is that your favorite stylist, for whatever reason, can no longer do your hair.  This does happen but there is no need to fret when it does.

Two tips that I give for finding a new stylist are word of mouth, and trial and error.  Asking your friends and co-workers is a good place to start.  They can usually be helpful in getting you to a great new salon.  In the end however, you may need to try a few different places before you find the perfect match for you and your hair.

If you are occasionally in the market for elegant updos such as wedding updos, prom updos, or formal updos, be sure to ask how confident your new stylist is in crafting these types of updo hairstyles.  One thing you want to try to avoid is to go to a new stylist last minute when you need a fancy updo.  By doing a “test run” before the big event, you may be able to save yourself some unnecessary headaches in the future.

There is nothing more exciting than finding a new hairstyle that you absolutely love.  Some people are resistant to change and get a little bit scared when they think about mixing things up. When it comes to your hairstyle, this can be especially true.  Spicing things up in the hair department can sometimes help with overall confidence and getting a fresh perspective on things.  We understand that the decision to change up your look, even if it is for a one-time event, may not be an easy decision.  If you have decided to mix it up, here are a couple of ideas for some funky, unique, updo hairstyles that are sure to turn some heads.

High Bun Twisted Updo – This can be an awesome simple updo hairdo if done right.  To get this look, start by getting a ponytail going directly on top of your head.  I recommend using some trusted product in the ponytail to maintain shape.  Twist the ponytail all the way up starting on the bottom until you have secured it into a high bun or knot.  Once you get a solid top, you can transform the rest of your hair any way you like.  You may choose to go with messy strands that slide off around your whole head.  This is good way to get a sexy, flirty look.  You may choose to make it a little more elegant by parting the sides and getting a side swept creation on either side.  Using some product should give you plenty of options to get a unique look.  This look can be great style choice for prom updos and wedding updos.

Half Down High Ponytail Updo – This is another easy one to create.  Create a ponytail high up on the back of the head.  Puff out the middle of the head under the ponytail to give a fuller look.  Once you have the back and the middle done you can style your bangs to your desire.  This is a fun style and a great updo for long hair choice.

Can you believe it’s the end of another year? The end of the calendar year is always a time for reflection, new beginnings and most of all, parties!  New Year’s Eve is the one night of the year where just about everybody seems to be out and about.  If you can’t find a party to go to on New Year’s Eve then you probably have not looked hard enough!

This is the night where anything can happen.  Many people throw caution to the wind and really make an effort to have a blast.  It is a great night for couples to go out and have fun and celebrate together.  If you’re single, you might be on the lookout for that special someone to share that magical New Year’s kiss with.

Whatever your personal case may be, you want to make sure that you are looking your best on New Year’s Eve.  For such a special night, you want a hairstyle that’s going to blow everybody away!  The New Year’s Eve updo should be just as important as what you decide for your attire.

There are many options to choose from when deciding on that fabulous NYE updo.  Depending on how fancy the party is, you may want to choose a formal updo.  Adding some sparkle to a sheik formal updo can be just what the hair doctor ordered.

If you are attending a party that is more laid back, we recommend going with something a little less sophisticated.  Updos with braids are always a great choice for this kind of look.  We love braids mixed into updo hairstyles.  Braids tend to give a different fresh flavor to your hairstyle and they look great as well!

New Year’s Eve is a night for everyone to feel like they are a celebrity.  You may want to check out some of your favorite celebrity updos to see if you can find that perfect updo to ring in the New Year.

Hello updo lovers!  Many women would love to be able to create and do their own hairstyles.  Unfortunately, not all of us are blessed with the talent and artistic ability to craft beautiful updos at a moment’s notice.

From our experience, one of the hardest things to do is find a hairstylist that you love and trust.  Looking great can sometimes come at a price.  We recommend that you don’t try to cut corners when finding that certain salon or stylist to do your “do”.  In reality, the truth is that sometimes you actually will get what you pay for.  We understand that you may be able to achieve simple updos by yourself.  However, if you need to get prom updos, wedding updos, or formal updos, you may need to visit a professional stylist.

In our opinion, the best way to find a great hairstylist is to ask around.  If you see a great updo on somebody, don’t be afraid to ask them where they got it done.  Word of mouth is usually the best way to find a stylist that you can rely on.

It also helps to remember that you don’t have to lock yourself in to a certain salon if you have not been happy with past results.  Don’t be afraid to switch it up every now and then to see if there is somebody out there who might be able to give you a fresh new look.  Like I mentioned before, you may have to pay a little more if you desire top quality hair attention.

When you do find that stylist that is a perfect match for you and your hair, make sure that you take care of her/him!  Make sure that you let them know how good of a job they did, and show them by being extra generous with your tip!

It’s that time of year again.  It’s time to check the shopping lists, make plans with friends and family, and get ready for all of those Holiday parties!  Sometimes we can get overwhelmed with all the little things that come along with the Holidays.  One thing that you shouldn’t overlook is that perfect Holiday hairstyle.  If you are like most people, you will probably be invited to at least one party this season.  Whether it is a company party, family party, or just a small get together, finding the perfect hairstyle shouldn’t cause any worry this year.

Here are a few suggestions from your friends at UpdoGuru.

Curly Updo – Curls are always a good way to transform an ordinary hairstyle into a fantastic one.  Of course we recommend a curly updo but you can also wear the curls down if you prefer.

Side Ponytail Updo – We love the side ponytail.  When done right you can get a super-flirty look if you single ladies are trying to impress that special someone.

Messy Updo – You can never go wrong with a messy updo.  With just the right amount of your favorite product, you can create a masterpiece that is sure to turn heads at any Holiday party.

Holiday Accessory Updo – Getting in to the Holiday spirit should be fun.  We always love when we see updos accessorized with Holiday themes.  You might be surprised what a bow, pine branch, or even a Christmas tree ornament (don’t steal from the tree!) will do to accentuate your hairstyle.  If you are feeling a little bit wild, incorporate some fresh mistletoe into your updo and just see how many people notice your Holiday accessory.

Remember to have fun and don’t stress out.  The Holidays are supposed to be a time of joy.  Let your imagination run as you try to pick a cool hairstyle for the upcoming season.