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ASK PHILIP B.

ISSUE: Baby-Fine, Limp Hair

January 14, 2009 | Fine & Limp Hair

Dear Philip,

I have very fine hair. What hair products would you recommend for me? (I do not, at this time, have any chemicals in my hair.)

I suggest using the Peppermint & Avocado Volumizing and Clarifying Shampoo and the pH Restorative Detangling Toning Mist in place of conditioner. The shampoo will clear away buildup to give your hair as much fullness and lift as possible. Meanwhile, the spray won’t weigh hair down: It seals the cuticle not by adding a layer of moisture on top but by giving it the proper pH balance, so you’ll have fewer tangles and plenty of manageability and shine. As for styling products to help you maintain the look of fuller, thicker hair throughout the day, you can go with one of two options: the Maui-Wowie Beach Mist, which lends fine hair a casual piecey feel; or my new Self-Adjusting Hair Spray, which ensures a more polished finish.

ISSUE: Growing Out My Hair

January 14, 2009 | Accolades

Dear Philip,

Your products are amazing! My hair, which once had the consistency of straw, is now so smooth to the touch it feels like silk. Also, my scalp tingles with each wash and I have a sense of well-being and cleanliness throughout the day. Many people have commented on how shiny my hair is, especially now that I am letting it grow.

That’s terrific. I’m happy to hear that you’re letting your hair grow out - I tend to think that people wear their hair too short. For me, longer hair looks sexier and more alive. Keep it healthy and strong by using wonderful moisturizing products like the Lovin’ Leave-In Conditioner, Katira Hair Masque, and amino-acid-rich shampoos like White Truffle and Russian Amber. Keep in mind that hair is organic but dead, a lot like wood. You need to oil and moisturize it regularly to lend it gloss and depth.

ISSUE: African-American Hair That Needs A Shine Boost

January 14, 2009 | African-American Hair, Fine & Limp Hair

Dear Philip,

I’m African-American and am interested in your Shinade Pomade. I have fine hair that’s relaxed. It seems to always look dull. Can you suggest which of your products would be good for my hair? Do you have experience working with African-American hair?

Yes and yes. My Four Step Hair & Scalp Treatment will restore life to your hair right away. It’s not only great for clarifying hair and removing buildup, but also moisturizes each strand from the inside out, putting back the shine in hair that’s been beaten down by chemicals and heat styling. For exta glossiness, follow that with an application of the Katira Masque. And you’re right: Shinade Pomade would be perfect for your fine hair - it’s a soy-based wax and amazingly light.

ISSUE: African-American Hair That’s Coarse and Gossamer

January 14, 2009 | African-American Hair, Dry Hair, Fine & Limp Hair

Dear Philip,

Which products in your line work best for ethnic hair? I have dry, coarse, baby-fine hair that’s unrelaxed. Also, do you also provide samples of your products?

Good questions. Hair like yours is super-fragile, so you need to handle it carefully. My recipe: Our Four-Step Treatment Kit is fantastic for strengthening the hair and adding shine without weight - I’d start with that once a week. You’d also do well with one of our ultra-gentle conditioning shampoos, like African Shea Butter; White Truffle Ultra-Rich Moisturizing Shampoo; or Russian Amber Imperial Shampoo, our unique cleanser and intensive treatment in one. (Use the latter sparingly: Apply a small dallop to dry hair and work it through, adding water gradually to work up a gentle lather.) After shampooing, follow up with an application of the Katira Masque. (Comb it through damp hair, let it dry to a hard shell and rinse.) That will knock the coarseness right out of your hair and leave it sleek and manageable. Finally, I’d rub a little of our Lovin’ Leave-in Conditioning Cream on the ends to keep them moisturized and healthy. (If your hair suffers from intense dehydration, the White Truffle Nourishing & Conditioning Creme Conditioner would be a perfect fix.)

As to your last question, yes, we proudly give out samples and are introducing a free sampling program on our website. Check back soon!