Category: Beauty Products

Though S-He products were some of the first I ever bought because back in the days before Essence and Catrice, this was the cheapest brand, I’ve never been a fan of the theirs. However, the nail polishes have been a highlight since their beginnings. They have a nice selection of colours and for an affordable price. The quality is good and they last well on the nails. This Gel-Like’n Ultra Stay formula is I think more new, but it doesn’t feel like a classic gel formula, at least not these two shades. They are classic thinner formulas. Their shade names are very bland, with just numbers.

245
 

The nude 245 has a somewhat of an odd formula, as the first layer sort of separates, like I were applying it over an oily surface, but the second layer fixes all and it’s a nice opaque and even shade.

310
 

The deep plum 310 is a jelly shade that’s even with the first coat, but isn’t opaque until the second. It’s like a mix of Essies’s Bahama Mama & Sole Mate.

These are 2,79 € in DM.

ORIFLAME Giordani Gold Age Defying Serum Boost Foundation

Vanilla Neutral

This colour is one of the best shades in my collection for my skin tone. It’s not too warm or too cool, it’s just a nice neutral pink that I currently wear all the time. The colour of the packaging is deceptive, as this is lighter on the lips.

ORIFLAME Giordani Gold Serum Infused Pearls

Natural Radiance

BALEA Niacinamide Nachtcreme

Such a nice moisturiser formula. It’s rich, yet absorbs quickly and leaves a velvet, silicone-primer like feeling on the skin. It’s great for under makeup, not just as a part of the night routine. In comparison the SPF 30 version never really sets and feels heavier on the skin.

BODY BOOM Superstar Hydrating and Illuminating Face and Eye Cream

I don’t see this just as a face cream, but as a type of illuminating primer. It has very tiny shimmer in it that adds a lovely, non-greasy shine to the skin. The ratio of shimmer vs. cream is so well done in this formula. It’s great for under makeup or even no makeup looks if the skin looks dull. Formula is medium thick and absorbs quickly. It contains a several oils: Babassu, Crambe, Black Currant, Kukui, Avocado; and extracts: Acerola, Guarana, Kakadu Plum, Pomegranate. It also has Caffeine, Vitamin C in the form of Ascorbic Acid, but with no percentage stated (it’s way before fragrance), Hyaluronic Acid and Squalene.

MIXA Ceramide Protect Hand Cream

CERAVE Moisturising Cream

I loved this immediately. It’s very similar to their hand cream, so it has a rich texture and it spreads easily on the skin. It absorbs fast enough, but the best part for me is that it leaves this velvety finish. It’s one of the best creams for very dry skin.

TREACKLEMOON Brazilian Love Shower and Bath Gel

This is a straight up dupe in terms of scent for the Sol de Janeiro Bum Bum Cream or their Brazilian 4 Play shower gel. It’s the same vanillary-nutty goodness. The scent is intense in the shower, but just like the SdJ scent it doesn’t last, which I why I’d like to have the body lotion or hand cream, but they aren’t sold here.

ORIFLAME Miss Giordani Floral

Eau de Parfum

This is a beautiful opulent floral, “sparkly” scent. When I say sparkly I mean it reminds of champagne when it’s still fizzing. The star in this fragrance is the sweet neroli. Other notes include tangerine, ginger, jasmine, tuberose, peony, ylang ylang, cedar wood and vanilla.

Wishlist and what’s new at the drugstore

DEBORAH MILANO Skin Booster BB Cream SPF 15 Shade 00 – I tried this in the shop and liked the texture. The shade 00 also looks very light and should suit me. I have too many foundations in my drawer, so I won’t get it, but if you’re looking for something new, this felt very promising. The vitamin C it mentions on the packaging is 3-O ethyl ascorbic acid.

L’ORÉAL PARiS Infaillible 3-second Setting Mist – Morphe has a mist in an aerosol, which is very praised because it has a super fine mist. L’Oreal made his own and it promises to keep the makeup in place for up to 36 hours. I have something similar from ArtDeco called the Anti-Pollution spray, but it’s more a refreshing/hydrating mist than a setting one.

TREND !T UP 2v1 Color & Boost Serum Eyeliner 010 – Stumbled upon this when I was still fuming about the changes made to the Catrice’s liquid eyeliner and I wanted to see what my option are regarding a cheap replacement. This claims to also boost the growth of lashes with the power of arginine.

GOT2B got GLOSS Shine Finish Spray – got2b discontinued two fantastic shine sprays in the last years. Hopefully this is a good replacement. It acts as a heat protectant too.

EVELINE COSMETICS Look Up Eyeshadow palette – it’s clear what they are trying to copy. I have doubts this is good, since their powders generally don’t swatch smooth when I test them in the shop, but I like the colour combinations.

EVELINE COSMETICS Wonder Match 4 in 1 Velour Cheek & Lip Colour Balm – I saw 4 colours on these on the website, but not yet in person. It’s nice to see that cream blushes are becoming more popular.

EVELINE COSMETICS Variété Face & Body Liquid Highlighter – just a couple of months ago I had trouble finding a liquid highlighter in local drugstores, now two brands launched their versions. This one might be worth a try, since I’m not super pleased with the new Essence one.

Have a great day!

*ORIFLAME Giordani Gold Age Defying Serum Boost Foundation, BOURJOIS Velvet the Pencil 03 In Mauve Again, ORIFLAME Giordani Gold Serum Infused Pearls Natural Radiance, BODY BOOM Superstar Hydrating and Illuminating Face and Eye Cream, CERAVE Moisturising Cream and ORIFLAME Miss Giordani Floral Eau de Parfum were all PR products. But I was not asked to feature them in this post and this is not a paid promotion.

The world of hair extensions has exploded in recent years and we now have more choice than ever. Explore clip-in, tape-in, weave and more, and discover your ideal hair extension type with our complete guide. 

How Hair Extensions Are Made

Whatever type of extension you go for, they will fit into one of two categories; synthetic or natural. 

Synthetic hair extensions are usually made from very fine plastic fibres created to mimic the look and feel of human hair. They are also cheaper than real hair extensions but don’t last as long and you need to be careful when styling as using heat will damage and melt the fibres.

Natural, or real, hair extensions are often valued more because they are hygienically taken from the hair donor. Throughout the process, the emphasis is on a clean environment, after which the hair is taken through a colour process to ensure optimum results. Most human hair comes from donors living in India and China and will blend into your own hair seamlessly. When they are well-maintained real hair extensions can last up to one year.

Rush Expert tip: if you want to know more about the differences in the two types of hair, be sure to ask at your local salon to get an informed opinion. 

Types of Hair Extensions, Explained

Once you’ve decided why you want hair extensions, the next decision is which type bests suits you and your needs. From clip-ins to fusion, check out our breakdown of various types to work out which one is for you.

Clip-In Hair Extensions

If you’re someone who loves to switch up your look on a regular basis then clip-ins are ideal. You can add various colours and lengths to go from Margot Robbie in Barbie blonde to dramatic Zendaya in Dune in minutes, without even visiting the salon.

What’s more, this super easy option is also damage-free – there’s zero pressure, heat or  chemicals needed. Simply choose your preferred length and colour and clip each piece exactly where you like. With proper care and regular wear, your clip-ins will last anything from 3-6 months.

Rush Expert tip: If you’re nervous about applying your clip-ins for the first time, don’t be scared to ask your stylist if you can book in for a demonstration or tutorial.

Tape-In Hair Extensions

Tape-in extensions are exactly how they sound. The extension has glue at the top which is attached to your natural hair, and another extension is attached on the other side of your natural hair.  Unlike clip-ins which can be done at home, you really want a professional to fit tape-in extensions to ensure accurate application. 

Tape-ins are seen as a semi-permanent option, lasting from 4-8 weeks with proper care. When it comes time to get them re-installed or removed, you will need to book a salon appointment to ensure safe removal but the extensions can be used again. 

Rush Expert tip: Be sure to ask your stylist which shampoo and conditioner to use at home as some products can cause tape-in extensions to become loose and even fall out.

Micro Ring (Loop) Hair Extensions

Also known as micro bead extensions, this process sees tiny wefts of hair being attached to the natural hair by a small silicone-lined bead. 

A special tool is then used to tighten the bead around the natural hair. As such this is a process that requires professional application, because if tightened too much, the bead can damage and pull on the hair.

Lasting up to 4 months, this method takes anything from 2-4 hours of salon time and you can wash them with your existing haircare products. These are a great semi-permanent option, as, when your natural hair begins to grow, you can go back to the salon to have the tiny beads tightened again.

Rush Expert tip: Talk to your stylist about how often you might need to come back to get the beads re-positioned.

Weave (Sew-In) Hair Extensions

Weave hair extensions have become an uber-popular option for women who want epic length and incredible volume too. We’re talking, big Beyonce hair here!

In this process, wefts of hair are sewn into your existing natural hair, which has been cane-rowed (plaited) directly to the scalp. This means that your scalp will be visible and care should be taken to hydrate the scalp regularly. Weaves should only be done by professionals to ensure the braids are not overly tight as the hair can add quite a bit of weight. More often than not, weaves will involve using real hair, which means it can easily be sewn in again after being removed and washed. You can also use synthetic hair but remember you won’t be able to do any heat styling so you might feel limited style-wise. 

Rush Expert tip: As a weave is meant to look like your hair, the key to wearing it well is ensuring the cut and colour are perfectly suited to your skin tone and bone structure.

Curious about the best color technique for your hair? Discover more on our blog: Highlights, babylights, or lowlights.

Fusion (Pre-Bonded) Hair Extensions

This process sees the extension fused to the natural hair with glue or another adhesive via a tool that should only be used by professionals. As the glue is directly applied to the hair, this is a semi-permanent option that comes with a risk of damage – including breakage, scalp irritation and hair loss. Depending on your hair type, your stylist might encourage you to consider another option.

Wigs and Hair Pieces

Wigs have seen a rebirth over the past few years because they allow for immediate transformations and can be made bespoke via colour and cut. They are also a good option for anyone dealing hair loss who does not want to apply any tension to their scalp.

While wigs are great for covering the entire head, hair pieces are ideal for anyone who just wants to add a little oomph. A ponytail can quickly be added for a party look and a bun can be placed to add glamour to any bridal style. Just like with any other type of extension, wigs and hair pieces are available in synthetic and real hair options, but the synthetic ones will become tangled much more easily and cannot be styled using heat. 

Rush Expert tip: If wigs and hair pieces are going to be your regular go-to, be sure to invest in a wig head, or two! This way you can keep your wigs tangle-free and ready to go.

Which Type of Hair Extension is Best for You

Now you’ve got a better picture of all the various types of hair extensions, it’s time to think about you and your lifestyle, because the best option is going to be the one that meets all your goals. Below is our list of top things to consider when choosing the right type of hair extension.

• How long do you need the results to last?
• How much maintenance are you prepared to commit to?
• How does your work/family life constrain your commitment to keeping your extensions healthy?
• How competent are you when it comes to styling your hair?
• Do you enjoy styling your hair or is it more of a chore?

Once you’ve answered these questions truthfully your hair stylist or extensions expert will be able to guide you in the right direction on your hair extensions journey. No matter what you decide, never underestimate the value of a consultation with a professional; they will have helped many clients just like you! 

Unsure of your hair type? Read our Hair Types Explained blog.

Summary

• Hair extensions come in synthetic and natural varieties, with natural extensions being more valued for their seamless blend and longer lifespan.
• Key types of extensions include clip-in for flexibility and ease, tape-in for a semi-permanent option, micro ring for durability, and weave for volume and length.
• Consider maintenance, lifestyle, and styling competence when choosing extensions. Consultation with a professional is crucial for personalized advice and optimal results.
• Proper care and choosing the right type based on your needs can enhance your look without compromising hair health.

Ready to book your extensions appointment today?  Find a hairdresser near you to book your appointment now.

FAQs

Q: What is the best type of hair extensions to get?

A: The best type depends on your lifestyle, hair type, and maintenance willingness. Clip-ins are versatile, while tape-ins offer semi-permanence.

Q: What are the 4 methods of hair extensions?

A: Clip-in, tape-in, micro ring (loop), and weave (sew-in) are the four main methods.

Q: What is the most damaging type of hair extension?

A: Fusion (pre-bonded) extensions can be the most damaging due to the use of glue and adhesives.

Q: What are the lowest maintenance hair extensions?

A: Clip-in extensions are the lowest maintenance, offering easy application and removal without professional help.

Q: Do extensions ruin fine hair?

A: When properly applied and maintained, extensions do not necessarily ruin fine hair. However, choosing the right type and ensuring professional application is crucial to avoid damage.

Welcome to the latest trends in men’s hairstyles! In 2024, the contrast of longer tops with shorter sides continues to dominate the scene, offering a versatile range of styles for the modern man. At Rush, we’re excited to present a collection of 15 awesome long top, short sides haircuts that are sure to elevate your look.

Pompadour Fade

The classic pompadour meets a sleek fade for a timeless yet contemporary look. This style boasts a voluminous top with neatly trimmed sides, offering a balance of sophistication and edge.

Expert Tip: To maintain the volume of your pompadour, blow-dry your hair upwards while using a round brush. Finish with a light-hold pomade for added control.

Quiff with Undercut

For a laid-back yet polished look, opt for a textured crop top fade. This style features short, textured hair on top gradually fading into closely cropped sides, offering a contemporary twist on a classic cut.

Expert Tip: Use a matte styling product to enhance the texture of your hair, providing a natural and effortless finish.

Textured Crop Top Fade

For a laid-back yet polished look, opt for a textured crop top fade. This style features short, textured hair on top gradually fading into closely cropped sides, offering a contemporary twist on a classic cut.

Expert Tip: Enhance the texture of your crop by applying a salt spray to damp hair before blow-drying. Use your fingers to tousle the hair for a natural, textured finish.

Read: What is Your Hair Type?

Slicked Back with Side Part

Channel timeless elegance with a slicked-back hairstyle accentuated by a defined side part. This sophisticated look is perfect for formal occasions or a polished everyday appearance.

Expert Tip: Achieve a sleek finish by applying a high-shine pomade evenly through damp hair. Use a fine-tooth comb to create a clean side part and smooth back the hair.

Faux Hawk Fade

Embrace your adventurous side with a faux hawk fade, blending boldness with refinement. This edgy style features a central long hair tapering into shorter sides, creating a striking silhouette.

Expert Tip: To maintain the height and shape of your faux hawk, use a strong-hold gel or wax to sculpt the hair upwards. Use your fingers to define the spikes for added texture.

Brushed Back Taper

Effortlessly stylish, the brushed-back taper offers a refined yet relaxed appearance. With the hair swept back and the sides tapered neatly, this look is versatile and easy to maintain.

Expert Tip; Apply a small amount of lightweight styling cream to towel-dried hair for a natural, flexible hold. Use your hands to sweep the hair back, avoiding a rigid appearance.

Modern Bowl Cut

The modern bowl cut reinvents a classic style with short sides and a slightly longer top. This updated version maintains its youthful charm while adding a contemporary flair to your appearance.

Expert Tip: To add volume and texture to your bowl cut, use a matte styling paste to tousle the hair and create separation. Avoid overloading the hair with product for a more natural finish.

Side Swept Fringe with Fade

Achieve a dynamic look with a side-swept fringe complemented by a clean fade. This style offers versatility, allowing you to adjust the length and direction of the fringe for different looks.

Expert Tip: Use a small amount of styling cream or wax to sweep the fringe to the side, focusing on defining the texture and creating movement. Experiment with different angles to find the most flattering look for your face shape.

Disconnected Undercut

Create a bold statement with a disconnected undercut, featuring a stark contrast between the longer top and shaved sides. This daring style demands attention and exudes confidence.

Expert Tip: Keep the longer top of your disconnected undercut looking sharp by scheduling regular trims every 4-6 weeks. This helps maintain the shape and prevents the style from looking overgrown.

Slicked Side Part with High Fade

Achieve a classic yet contemporary look with a slicked side part complemented by a high fade. This style offers sophistication with a modern twist, perfect for both formal and casual settings.

Expert Tip: For a sleek finish, comb a small amount of high-shine pomade through damp hair, focusing on the top and sides. Use a fine-tooth comb to create a precise side part, ensuring clean lines and a polished appearance.

Messy Textured Crop with Skin Fade

Embrace a relaxed and effortlessly cool vibe with a messy textured crop paired with a skin fade. This style exudes laid-back charm while still maintaining a polished edge.

Sleek High and Tide Fade

For a sharp and sophisticated look, opt for a sleek high and tight fade. This style features a high fade on the sides with a clean, structured top, offering a polished and refined appearance.

Wavy Textured Top with Mid Fade 

Embrace your natural texture with a wavy textured top paired with a mid fade. This style celebrates movement and volume, offering a relaxed yet stylish appearance.

Undercut with Spiky Textured Top

Channel edgy sophistication with an undercut featuring a spiky textured top. This style exudes confidence and individuality, offering a bold and rebellious aesthetic.

Expert Tip: Create definition and height in your spiky textured top by using a strong-hold gel or wax to sculpt the hair upwards. Use your fingers to spike the hair and create a tousled, lived-in look, embracing the rebellious spirit of the style.

Layered Choppy Top with Drop Fade

Make a statement with a layered choppy top complemented by a drop fade. This style boasts texture and dimension, offering a bold and dynamic appearance.

Expert Tip: To accentuate the layers and texture of your choppy top, use a small amount of styling paste or clay to define the ends and create separation. Experiment with different styling techniques to achieve your desired look, whether it’s tousled and messy or sleek and structured.

Book Your Hair Appointment Now

Ready to transform your look? Find a hairdresser near you or book your appointment online here to let our skilled stylists bring your vision to life.

FAQ’S

Q: How often should I get a trim to maintain these styles?

A: For most of these styles, a trim every 4-6 weeks helps maintain the shape and overall appearance.

Q: What hair products work best for long top, short side haircuts?

A: Matte pomades or styling creams are ideal for achieving a natural look without the greasy shine.

Q: Can these hairstyles be adapted for different hair textures?

A: Yes, these styles can be tailored to suit various hair textures with the right techniques and products.

Q: How do I know which style suits my face shape best?

A: Consider consulting with one of our stylists at Rush for personalised recommendations based on your face shape and hair type.

Q: How often should I change my hairstyle to stay trendy?

A: Hairstyle trends evolve gradually, but it’s recommended to update your look every few months to keep it fresh and modern. Consult with your stylist at Rush for personalised recommendations based on current trends and your personal style.

Q: What hairstyles are suitable for thinning hair?

A: For thinning hair, consider hairstyles that incorporate layers and texture to create the illusion of fullness and volume. Styles like textured crops, layered cuts, and side-swept hairstyles can help minimise the appearance of thinning hair while adding dimension.

Q: Are there specific hairstyles suitable for curly hair with longer tops and shorter sides?

A: Absolutely! For curly hair, consider hairstyles that embrace the natural texture and volume, such as textured crops, curly quiffs, and tapered afros. These styles allow the curls to shine while keeping the sides neatly trimmed for a balanced look.

Q: Are there specific hairstyles suitable for formal events or weddings?

A: For formal events or weddings, consider polished hairstyles such as slicked-back styles, classic side parts, or textured pompadours with shorter sides. These styles exude sophistication and elegance, making them perfect for special occasions. Consult with your stylist at Rush for personalised recommendations based on the event and your personal style preferences.

Q: How can I maintain my hairstyle between salon visits?

A: To maintain your hairstyle between salon visits, invest in quality hair care products recommended by your stylist at Rush, such as shampoos, conditioners, and styling products suited to your hair type and texture. Follow a regular grooming routine and touch up your hairstyle as needed to keep it looking fresh.

Dye job gone wrong? Before you break out the box dye on your hair extensions, pump the brakes! There are some crucial dos and don’ts you need to know first. So, can you dye your hair extensions? It’s a really popular question that we find ourselves being asked time and time again…so we’re here to set the record straight.

There are many reasons why people might want to dye their extensions. Perhaps you’ve had your set for a long time, and the colour needs a bit of a refresh. Or, you’ve dyed your natural hair and want your extensions to match but don’t want to spend the money on a brand-new set.

Whatever the reason, it’s understandable that you’d be tempted to reach for a bottle of hair dye and give it a go. But before you do, there are a few things you need to know. 

With over 10 years of experience, the expert stylists at Rush Salon have mastered the technique of properly dyeing hair extensions. Our colour specialists know the ins and outs of working with extensions, from the formulas and techniques to achieving stunning, seamless colour. For this reason, we would always recommend you pop into one of our salons to achieve the best results.

Key Takeaways

• Synthetic or artificial hair extensions should not be dyed as they cannot properly absorb dye and may become damaged.
• Only high-quality human hair extensions made from Remy’s hair can be successfully dyed.
• When dyeing human hair extensions, work in small sections, detangle hair before applying semi-permanent dye from roots to tips, follow exact timing instructions, rinse thoroughly, and deep condition afterwards.
• Dyeing dramatically lifts shade for a long-lasting colour change, while toning subtly enhances tone and lasts 4-6 weeks.
• To maintain the quality of dyed extensions, avoid overprocessing with harsh chemicals like bleach, limit dyeing to only once, and use sulphate-free products for gentle care.

Can You Dye Hair Extensions?

At rush salon, we use high-quality human hair extensions made from Remy hair. But before you dye your extensions, it’s important to understand the difference between human and artificial hair.

Artificial hair extensions are made from synthetic fibres. They are much cheaper than human hair extensions, but have a different texture and do not blend as seamlessly with natural hair. Artificial fibres also cannot be dyed or heat styled without damage.

Human hair extensions are made from real human hair that has been ethically sourced. The best quality human hair extensions are Remy hair, which means the cuticles are kept intact and aligned all in the same direction. This creates a more natural look and makes them easier to style. Human hair can be dyed, heat styled, and treated just like your own hair.

Only human hair extensions can be dyed successfully. However, we do not recommend doing this with box dye at home, instead, visit one of our salons so we can help you achieve the perfect colour. Trying to dye synthetic extensions will only damage them.

What Are The Different Types Of Hair Extensions? *add link to blog once uploaded*

Now that you know whether or not your extensions are dye-able, let’s get into how to properly dye human hair extensions…

Can You Dye Artificial Hair Extensions?

In short, no you can’t.  You should not attempt to dye synthetic or artificial hair extensions. The material of synthetic extensions is not able to absorb dye pigments properly. Trying to dye artificial extensions will likely damage the fibres leading them to become dry, brittle, and tangled.

The dye may also simply rinse out and not adhere at all to the synthetic fibres. Some plastic extension fibres can even melt under the chemical processing of dye. Bottom line – dyeing artificial hair extensions is ineffective at best and damaging to the extensions at worst. If you want to change the colour of your artificial extensions, your only option is to purchase a new set in the desired colour.

Can You Dye Human Hair Extensions?

Yes, it is possible to dye human hair extensions, but it should be done carefully by a professional stylist for the best results. Human hair extensions are made from real hair that can absorb and take to dye, similar to the hair on your head. However, the process of colouring extensions is more intricate than dyeing your own hair.

The stylist needs to apply the dye evenly from root to tip and seal the cuticles properly to achieve an even colour without damage. 

Going to a hair salon ensures proper products and techniques are used so that your expensive human hair extensions are not inadvertently ruined by an at-home dye job gone wrong.

If you’re considering adding dimension to your hair extensions, you might be wondering about the difference between babylights and highlights. Learn more about these techniques in our comparison of Babylights Vs Highlights.

How to Dye Human Hair Extensions Step by Step

While it’s best to have a professional hair stylist dye hair extensions, especially if you plan to dye your hair at the same time, it is possible to carefully dye extensions at home. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Choose the Right Dye