Great Lengths Christmas Playlist

Christmas time is here again and the Christmas tunes are playing at Great Lengths! Here's just a sample of some classics and some hidden gems on our playlist this year.

1.Christmas Time Is Here Again - The Beatles Listen!
2.Last Christmas - Jimmy Eat World Listen!
3.My Grown Up Christmas List - Kelly Clarkson Listen!
4.Peace On Earth - U2 Listen!
5.Santa Claus Is Back In Town - Elvis Presley Listen!
6.Santa Claus Is Coming To Town - Bruce Springsteen Listen!
7.Back Door Santa - Clarence Carter Listen!
8.Better Days - Goo Goo Dolls Listen!
9.Christmas Lights - Coldplay Listen!
10.Christmas Time - Bryan Adams Listen!
11.All I Want For Christmas Is You - Mariah Carey Listen!
12.Mary Did You Know - Clay Aiken * Listen!

*I know it's Clay Aiken, but it's a good Christmas song.

Product Spotlight: Poo-Pourri

Bathroom odour is not a pleasant topic, but such smells are a fact of life. Fortunately, there is Poo-Pourri. These natural, essential-oil-based bathroom deodorizers control odour “by creating a barrier that prevents embarrassing bathroom smells from ever escaping the toilet.”

How does it work? You spray the patent-pending formula directly into the toilet before you go and the product’s essential oils trap the odour before it can get out.

The company has a long list of testimonials, including praise from The Chicago Tribune and Glamour magazine. Their line of bathroom deodorizers uses essential oils like grapefruit, bergamot, lemongrass, orange, neroli, sandalwood, and vetiver. The company also makes a fabulous hand sanitizer called Down & Dirty Waterless Hand Cleanser that contains malachite (a “natural defense”), aloe vera, and green tea.

Use Poo-Pourri at work, when you stay with family or friends, or in your own home. It comes in purse-size and bathroom-size bottles and costs only about 8 cents per use.

Get yours now at Great Lengths Hair Gallery!

Holiday Shopping at 15% Off!

Don’t sweat the small stuff. That’s our mantra this holiday season. Stocking stuffers, hostess gifts, a little something for your co-workers—we’ve got the small stuff covered. And during December, you can enjoy a 15% discount on all Great Lengths retail items.


VAPUR water bottles, EOS lip balms, Footzy Rolls, Poo-Pourri waterless hand cleaner (ideal for keeping colds and flu at bay)—we have a great selection of unique and fun gifts for just about everyone on your list. So be sure to stop by and get some Christmas shopping done. While you’re here, check out our stellar line-up of hair care products from Moroccan Oil and Kevin Murphy. They’re on sale too!

And remember, Great Lengths is once again supporting the Chum Christmas Wish. If you drop off a new, unwrapped toy before December 17, you’ll be eligible to win a $100 Great Lengths gift card!

Happy holidays!

Ginger for the Holidays and More!

As the holiday baking season starts, we hear a lot about ginger. Gingerbread is a Christmas favourite, but ginger has many uses beyond spicing up cookies.


Remember when you got the stomach flu as a child and your mom or dad gave you ginger ale? Turns out they were calling upon centuries of wisdom. Ginger has been used since ancient times as a digestive aid and recent scientific studies have proven that ginger does, in fact, relieve nausea and upset stomachs. Preliminary studies have found that ginger may lower cholesterol and help prevent blood from clotting. Ginger is also being investigated for its effect on a number of cancers. Much more research is needed to determine the effect on humans, but there is some evidence that ginger may kill cancer cells in test tubes. (http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/ginger-000246.htm)

Deepak Chopra, a practitioner of Ayurveda, an ancient Indian lifestyle, says in his cookbook that ginger has a strong cleansing effect on the body and soothes and cleans the respiratory tract, making it a good choice during cold and flu season. He also says that ginger tea can help reduce cravings for sweet and salty snacks. Others believe that ginger has anti-inflammatory effects and can help reduce pain.

Ginger tea is one of the easiest ways to consume ginger. Simply steep a few slices of fresh ginger in boiling water. Ginger is also a common ingredient in Asian and Indian cuisine and, of course, in holiday treats. As with anything else, moderation is key. As Mark Vincent of the University of Western Ontario notes, there is no “guarantee that long-term ginger consumption is risk-free”. (http://bit.ly/unXUmh) And you should always consult a physician before treating yourself with ginger or any other “superfood”, especially if you are pregnant or have any underlying medical conditions

Braids

One of the big hair trends for this season is braids. From side-swept to fishtail to French braids, this style has been called elegant, sophisticated, and practical.

A story in the International Herald Tribune said of braids: “There is nothing more practical, romantic and easy-to-do than all kinds of braided hairstyles. Braids and braided head buns make you look like a character from a rose tinted Jane Austen novel. Braids have been adopted and reinvented in every wave of fashion the world has come across. From Grecian goddesses to the contemporary supermodels, every woman has tried to twist and turn braids to create their respective signature looks. Besides, milkmaid braids and side-swept, overlapping braid hairstyles are also making a comeback this season.” (http://bit.ly/uFMnZo)

We have collected a few photos and how-to videos to help you make the most of this trend.

• Some images of the braided updo to inspire you... http://www.bellasugar.com/Braided-Updo-Trend-Fall-2011-19063624

• The super-trendy fishtail braid...a how-to in pictures. http://www.bellasugar.com/How--Learn-Fishtail-Braid-2772862

• Scroll down for videos that show you how to do the fishtail braid and a French braid. http://www.beautips.info/make-up-and-hairstyle-tips/winter-2010-2011-hairstyle-trends-braided-hairdos/

• A how-to on creating a braided bun, a la Taylor Swift. http://bit.ly/vo6fJu

• A side-swept, fashionably untidy braid. http://bit.ly/rrfs0S

• Using a leather strip as an accent for a braid... http://bit.ly/rACfHh

• 5 ways to wear a headband braid, even if your hair is short. http://bit.ly/vSrF7r

Whether you are planning to braid your hair for a special occasion or for everyday wear, there are lots of styles to choose from. You may even want to try a few to see which one works best for you!

Movember...for Men’s Health

We’ve talked in recent posts about ovarian and breast cancer, and this month we turn our attention to prostate cancer and men’s health.

During the month of November, men the world over will commit to growing moustaches as part of “Movember,” a global movement to generate awareness of men’s health issues while raising funds for prostate cancer research. As the Movember Canada website states: “The appearance of a moustache on a usually clean shaven man prompts questions from those around them. Throughout the month of Movember they are constantly asked the question - why the moustache? Each Mo Bro then needs to justify his new look with an explanation about the unique challenges men face with their health, and information about prostate cancer. The result is a highly effective and authentic word-of-mouth campaign. “

One of the goals of the campaign is to encourage men to have a complete physical, including cancer screening, because many types of cancer that affect men—prostate, testicular, and skin—can be cured if caught early.

Product Spotlight: EOS Lip Balm

With their bright colours and unique spherical shape, EOS lip balms certainly get noticed. Once you get past the fun and funky packaging, you’ll find a product that is definitely worthy of the attention.


EOS stands for the “evolution of smooth”—a description that certainly fits. EOS lip balm is gluten-free, paraben-free, petrolatum-free, and phthalate-free. It is also 95% organic and 100% natural. Its ingredients include proven natural moisturizers, shea butter and jojoba oil, and antioxidant-rich vitamin E. And EOS products are not tested on animals.

Smooth sphere lip balms come in a range of natural flavours that glide on easily, including summer fruit, honeysuckle honeydew, medicated tangerine, lemon drop (SPF 15), and sweet mint. Smooth stick lip balm also comes in sweet mint and two additional flavours: vanilla bean and pomegranate raspberry. (Full ingredient lists are available on the company’s website as www.evolutionofsmooth.com.)

EOS lip balms are a must-have, especially for the upcoming winter season. They also make great stocking stuffers for anyone who wants to get a jump on their Christmas shopping! Visit Great Lengths Hair Gallery for a full selection of EOS lip balms.

Pumpkin—Not Just for Pie

The word “pumpkin” typically brings two thoughts to mind—pie and Halloween. But highly nutritious pumpkin can (and should) be a lot more than a dessert or decoration.

Most of us have probably heard about “eating a rainbow” of produce, since more colours mean a broader range of nutrients. The deep yellow/orange hue of pumpkin is part of this rainbow. Pumpkin and other squash are loaded with important carotenoids, which have been shown to prolong life. (http://bit.ly/pUxc5w ). Pumpkin is particularly high in alpha-carotene, which some sources say is a more powerful cancer-fighter than its better known relative, beta-carotene. (http://bit.ly/nZMbf1)

Pumpkin provides a lot of fibre with few calories. It is also a good source of vitamin C, riboflavin, niacin, iron, and calcium.

And don’t forget the seeds. Whether you scrape them out of your jack-o-lantern and roast them yourself, or buy them from your local bulk food store, pumpkin seeds (also known as pepitas) offer a lot of nutritional benefits. According to Canadian Living, they are “among the leaders of phytosterols -- a naturally occurring compound with an established reputation for cholesterol-lowering properties. Phytosterols are also being studied for their potential role in prostate health. Each 1/4 cup (50 millilitre) serving of the seed provides a healthy dose of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and is a good source of minerals, including phosphorus, magnesium, zinc and iron, making it one of the most nutritious and flavourful seeds around.” Pumpkin seeds can be sprinkled in salads or on soups, but be sure you don’t go overboard. One cup of pumpkin seeds is 750 calories. (http://bit.ly/nB8j9o)

Pumpkin is very easy to incorporate into your diet, and not just in the form of pumpkin pie. Pumpkin and squash puree make wonderful soups. Roasted pumpkin or squash can be seasoned in a variety of ways—butter, brown sugar, maple syrup, cinnamon, and curry can all be used to create different side dishes. What’s more, pumpkin and squash are grown locally and are abundant this time of year, so be sure to get yours!

Product Spotlight: Kevin Murphy Session Spray

Intense hold with humidity resistance and UV protection—what more could hair need?

Kevin Murphy Session Spray provides a firm hold without flakiness. It contains hydrolyzed wheat protein, a natural source of vitamin C that creates a protective barrier against moisture loss while promoting shine. Its ivy leaf/stem extract helps to seal in moisture to prevent breakage while also adding shine. Ivy extract also helps prevent and treat dryness caused by too much exposure to heat.

The styling resins used in Session Spray provide a firm but flexible hold with excellent memory and resistance against high humidity.

As much as we love what is in Session Spray, the list of what’s not in it is equally impressive. It is free of parabens and CFCs. It is also low-VOC (volatile organic compound).

Session Spray is halfway between a styling product and a finishing product. The moulding resins it contains are a slightly wetter formulation than standard hairsprays and allow you to style the hair with a sleeker appearance.

Session Spray and other Kevin Murphy styling products are available now at Great Lengths Hair Gallery.

What’s Hot for Accessories this Fall

Accessories are an easy, affordable way to stay on trend each season. Here are just a few of the more “accessible” accessory trends this fall, summarized from Vogue magazine:




• Colour blocking in purses and shoes. Contrasting blocks of colour—turquoise and earth tones, oranges and reds—are paired together in geometric designs that make a bold statement.

• Snakeskin. Animal prints in general are very popular this season, but snakeskin is making an appearance in accessories. Real snakeskin is beyond the reach of most people, but there are plenty of faux snakeskin purses, boots, and shoes around for those who prefer a more affordable option.

• Gloves. Gloves were all over fall runways and shown in a variety of styles, colours, and materials—lace, leather, fur, snakeskin, and even polka-dotted.

• Long earrings. Again, the emphasis is on variety, from long tasselled earrings that graze the shoulder to delicate beading and large geometric shapes.

• Menswear-inspired shoes. The hot shoes for fall are penny loafers, brogues, and tasselled shoes with a feminine touch delivered via a high heel. The Toronto Star featured this trend in its fashion pages recently.( http://bit.ly/oRAkN0)

• Clutches. The clutch purse is a big trend, and the colour blocking trend is apparent here too.



To get a look at these and other trends in accessories, visit Vogue’s gallery at http://bit.ly/pz3EPZ0.

September is National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month

Ovarian cancer is known as the “disease that whispers” because its symptoms are very hard to detect. Every year more than 2,600 women are diagnosed with the disease and 1,750 women die from it.

If caught in its early stages, the success rate for treatment is 90%, but to ensure the disease is detected early more awareness of the signs and symptoms is needed. In 2010, Canada’s Minister of Health urged women to learn about these symptoms (http://bit.ly/o4HLpy).

The challenge with this type of cancer, according to Ovarian Cancer Canada, is that the symptoms are “generally vague, non-specific and can be mistakenly attributed to other causes.” Common warning symptoms include:

• Swelling or bloating of the abdomen

• Pelvic discomfort or heaviness

• Back or abdominal pain

• Fatigue

• Gas, nausea, indigestion

• Change in bowel habits

• Frequent urination
• Menstrual irregularities
• Weight loss or weight gain

Ovarian Cancer Canada also notes that recent onset or severity in any of these symptoms warrants further diagnostic investigation. A Pap smear cannot detect ovarian cancer—a full pelvic exam is necessary.

The risk of developing ovarian cancer increases with age, as most cases occur after menopause. There is increased risk in women who have not had children or never taken oral contraceptives. Women who have had breast or colon cancer or have a family history of those diseases are also at higher risk for developing ovarian cancer, as are women who are members of the Ashkenazi Jewish community.

To learn more about this disease, including more symptoms and tips for prevention, visit the Ovarian Cancer Canada website (http://www.ovariancanada.org/), and look for their sunflower fundraiser at grocery stores near you. (http://bit.ly/o1yhyx)

Mark Your Calendars for the Markham Fair!

Canada’s largest 4-day agricultural fair will be held this September 29 through October 2. The Markham Fair takes place at the Markham Fair grounds, located on the North East corner of McCowan Road and Elgin Mills Road (10801 McCowan Road).

The Markham Fair is one of Canada’s oldest country fairs. According to the fair’s website, “Since 1844 the fair has been providing the community with a showcase for talents and products in a friendly competitive spirit. With over 670 volunteers working on more than 70 committees, Markham Fair is the largest community based volunteer organization in Canada.”

There are lots of great events at the fair this year including:

• Monster trucks in the “largest outdoor monster madness show in 2011.”
• A truck and tractor pull.
• Horse shows.
• Video dance party.
• Teen talent show.
• A meet-and-greet with Dora the Explorer and Kai-lan.
• A demolition derby.
• A giant fireworks display.

In addition to the special events listed above, there is also ongoing entertainment from Silver Elvis, Madame Buskerfly, and Doug the Great. As always, there is lots of great stuff for kids, like Reptilia, face painting, elephant rides, pony rides, and the midway.

Last year 66,000 people visited the fair. It is a great time for the entire family. Great Lengths Hair Gallery will be at the fair, as we are every year, and we hope to see you there! To learn more about the fair, visit http://www.markhamfair.ca/fair.asp.

Back to School Deal—10% Off Kids’ Haircuts in September

What’s on your checklist for back to school? Paper, binders, pens, pencils, math sets, calculators and other school supplies, not to mention the new clothes required to accommodate the extra two inches most kids seem to put on over the summer.


With so much required to start the new school year, costs can add up in a hurry. That’s why we are offering a discount on kids’ haircuts for the entire month of September.

Bring your child to Great Lengths Hair Gallery this month and we’ll take 10% off the price of their haircut. Book your appointment now! This offer expires September 30.

Toronto Argonauts and Great Lengths

Great Lengths was excited to be asked once again to be the hair sponsor for the Toronto Argos Cheerleaders. We had a busy spring with the website photo shoot on May 29th and the calendar photo shoot on June 20 and 27th. We are currently selling the calendars at the salon for $10 with all proceeds going to charity.

http://argonauts.ca/video/index/id/18979

How to Buy a Flat Iron

For women who want the look of glossy, straight locks, a flat iron is essential. But which one is right for your hair? The people at folica.com have some tips for flat iron shopping. (http://bit.ly/qhJOXo)

First, you need to consider your hair type. Coarse or curly hair requires the high temperatures of a professional flat iron, that is, one that ranges between 380ºF and 410ºF. If your hair is slightly wavy and of “normal” thickness, you can go with a little less heat—between 360ºF and 380ºF. Fine or thin hair can be damaged easily by high heat, so it is best to find a flat iron with temperature control. The Folica article recommends that people with very fine, straight hair start with lower temperatures (around 180ºF) and work their way up from there.

Second, make sure your flat iron is the right width for your hair. Basically, the longer the hair, the wider the iron should be.

The plates on a flat iron can be made of many different materials, all of which are outlined in the Folica article. The three materials that tend to be highly recommended are: ceramic, tourmaline, and titanium.

Ceramic plates create negative ions (which reduce frizz), diffuse heat and seal the hair cuticle. Titanium maintains consistent heat levels to minimize damage while also straightening hair quickly. Tourmaline is often infused into ceramic plates to create even more negative ions, resulting in shiner, straighter hair.

Need more help with your flat iron? Here is an article about using your flat iron like a pro. (http://bit.ly/nZmOKz). To read about the top ten flat irons in Canada, consult the 2011 list from hairtools.ca (http://bit.ly/o4mQ2k).

And if you have any questions about which type of flat iron to buy, please ask a Great Lengths stylist. We’re always happy to help!

The Health Benefits of Meditation

How often have you or someone else you know said, “I’m so stressed out!” Because of our busy lifestyles, stress is a major problem and it is not just in our heads.

A recent Globe & Mail article positioned stress as a public health issue, and cited research that shows that “[c]hronic stress caused by taking on too much – both at home and at work – has been linked to a wide range of serious health concerns, from Alzheimer’s and depression to obesity, diabetes and heart disease.” (http://bit.ly/rtOdwC)

How to reduce stress? For an increasing number of people, meditation is the answer and science is backing them up.

Dr. Ramesh Manocha at Sydney University led a study into meditation recently. He found that meditation “triggers change in electrical activity of the brain, improving the mind and body in measurable ways,” including improvement in mood and depression levels. http://bit.ly/nHrHHu

Other recent studies have found additional benefits to meditation: initial research at UCLA shows that meditation may help reduce age-related brain atrophy (http://bit.ly/nubjXP); and scientists at Wake Forest University found a link between meditation and reduced sensitivity to pain, a discovery that shows promise for those suffering from chronic pain (http://bit.ly/oUEpjM).

A common misconception about mediation is that it is just a matter of sitting quietly. While that is certainly one aspect of it, there is more to meditation than simply relaxing. As Dr. Manocha notes, meditation is the widening of space between thoughts “until the space is so large you have no thoughts whatsoever in that moment.”

Meditation is a practice, one that takes commitment and some instruction to get started. But it is worth the effort, as research continually shows. To learn more about meditation, try a simple Google search to find instructors in your community or visit your local library where books on mediation are often readily available.

Take Care of Your Feet during Sandal Season and Year-Round

Warm weather means sandals and bare feet at the pool or beach, so many people schedule pedicures to ensure their feet are looking their best. But pedicures do more than just make your feet look good.

Consider that the average person takes 8,000 to 10,000 steps every day (http://bit.ly/kmZiTb). All the weight from those thousands of steps is borne by the feet.

 

A pedicure provides relief. It includes a massage that releases tension, alleviates pain in the feet, and improves circulation. The exfoliation done during a pedicure removes the calluses that form around the heels and toes, which, if left untreated, can feel uncomfortable or even painful. Nail cleaning and trimming is important for removing dirt and bacteria.

There are aesthetic benefits too, of course. Exfoliated feet feel softer and look nicer in sandals. Neatly trimmed nails look better and, as we all know from experience, there are no nail polish mishaps when someone else paints your toes!

Lest you think that pedicures are just for women, think again. Many men enjoy them too, although most of them choose to skip the polish. And those who enjoy regular pedicures will tell you that they are not a luxury, but an essential element of looking and feeling great at any time of the year

Moroccan Oil Glimmer Shine Spray

In its Trends of the Season, the MoroccanOil website showcases the tresses of celebrities Naomi Watts and Scarlett Johansson. One secret to their fabulous hair? Moroccan Glimmer Shine Spray.

As the name implies, Glimmer Shine Spray provides instant, luminous shine without weighing hair down. It enhances colour and highlights and helps prevent static and frizz, leaving hair feeling silky and soft.

Like all Moroccan Oil products, Glimmer Shine Spray is made with argan oil, which has been used for hundreds of years by women in Morocco to counteract the effects of a hot climate on hair. Glimmer Shine Spray helps protect hair against harmful pollutants, and its UV filters keep hair healthy in the summer sun.

Keep your hair looking its best on hot, sunny days with Moroccan Oil Glimmer Shine Spray, available at Great Lengths Hair Gallery.

Hairstylist Q&A With Jason—Keeping Hair Healthy in Summer

What are the best ways to minimize the impact of hot sun and chlorine on hair?

I would recommend Joico’s K-Pak Sun Therapy Protective Sun Milk. It’s a lightweight, color-safe leave-in protective spray that repairs and shields the hair from future sun damage. You can use it on wet or dry hair during long periods of sun exposure and it leaves your hair hydrated, conditioned and protected against chlorine when you’re in the pool. Sun Milk has a powerful blend of three full spectrum UV protectants and contains aloe vera, for natural healing and soothing.

Want Healthy Hair That Holds Your Style? Give Up Daily Washings

Have you heard of the “no ‘poo” movement? According to a recent article in the Globe & Mail (http://bit.ly/ieQEyR), it is becoming increasingly popular.

“No ‘poo” advocates are people who have given up daily hair washing, instead choosing to shampoo only once every three to five days. Some go even longer without washing. Why? Because they think their hair looks and feels better, and it probably does.

Your scalp produces oil that helps nourish and strengthen hair. Shampooing washes this oil away, depriving hair of its own, natural conditioner. To compensate, the scalp goes into overdrive and produces more oil. As the Globe article notes, washing your hair less actually leaves it less oily.

Worried about the smell of unwashed hair? No need. A whole range of dry shampoos are available to freshen up hair that hasn’t seen suds in a while. (Great Lengths recommends Kevin Murphy Fresh Hair.) If greasy hair is an issue, and it may be until your oil production adjusts to your no-shampoo routine, a dry shampoo can absorb excess oil too.

In addition to being healthier, unwashed hair is easier to style, especially if you are keen on replicating the messy up-dos and ponytails seen recently on fashion runways.

Not sure you can give up your daily shampoo? The Globe article suggests that you begin gradually by washing every other day and then tapering off. One more piece of advice? Keep a good dry shampoo on hand, in case you need it.

Interesting Hair Facts

• Hair grows faster than any other tissue in the body, save for bone marrow.

• The average scalp has 100,000 hairs or just fewer than 1,000 per square inch. Redheads have the least at 80,000; brown and black haired persons have about 100,000; and blondes have the most at 120,000.

• We are born with all of our hair follicles. Some are programmed to grow pigmented hair (as on our scalp) up to 1 metre in length.

• 35 metres of hair fibre is produced every day on the average adult scalp. 90% of scalp hairs are growing and 10% are resting.

• It is normal to lose 100 hairs per day from the scalp.

• A single hair has a thickness of 0.02 - 0.04mm, so that 20 - 50 hair strands next to each other make one millimetre.
• Hair is as strong as copper wire of the same diameter. It can stretch up to 20% of its original length before breaking when it is dry. When wet it may stretch up to 50% before breaking.

--Adapted from http://www.ukhairdressers.com/news3.asp, http://www.dermweb.com/skincare/hair/hairfact.html and http://www.keratin.com/aa/aa016.shtml

Humidity Blocker

We all love summer, but not the humid weather that often comes with it. Humidity can cause major problems for hair: fine hair goes limp, curly hair goes frizzy, and straightened hair reverts to curly.

Joico Humidity Blocker is designed to neutralize the impact of humid weather on your hair. It “imparts an invisible protective barrier around each hair strand, providing ultimate humidity protection by locking out style-robbing moisture all day.” Humidity Blocker prevents styles from collapsing, stops frizz, and ensures straightened hair stays straight.

Not only is it a great defence against hot, moist summer weather, Humidity Blocker also includes UVA/UVB filters and antioxidants that provide total hair protection by shielding against ozonic and free radical damage.

Humidity Blocker is a great value. A little goes a long way, and one can should last you the entire summer.

To help maintain your hairstyle on the hottest, muggiest days, we recommend Joico Humidity Blocker, available now at Great Lengths Hair Gallery.

Strawberries for Beauty and Nutrition

Ontario strawberries will soon be available! These delicious berries are the centrepiece of summer desserts—who doesn’t love strawberries and cream or strawberry shortcake?

Beyond their sweetness, strawberries are also recognized as a nutritional powerhouse. Strawberries are higher in vitamin C than oranges. They are also a great source of fibre, folate, and potassium.

What you may not know is that strawberries can also improve the health of your skin. Like all berries, strawberries are rich in antioxidants, which help fight the free radicals that can lead to skin cell damage and premature aging. Berries also help the body produce collagen, which makes skin supple.

Strawberries are easy to add to your diet. Blend with some other berries, milk and yogurt to create a smoothie. Toss a few into a spinach salad—the two go well together. If you like avocado (another fruit that is great for your skin), try it with strawberries in this delicious recipe from Food & Drink magazine. And you can always toss a few berries on top of vanilla ice cream for a refreshing dessert on a hot day.

Get the Best Eye Protection from Your Sunglasses

It looks like sunny days are finally here after a very rainy spring. If you are looking for a new pair of sunglasses, here are some tips for finding a pair that protects your eyes from UV rays and minimizes aging of the delicate skin around the eyes. Selecting the right sunglasses is especially important for people with blue and green eyes, since they are the most sensitive to the sun.

UV radiation can lead to a host of eye problems, including cataracts and macular degeneration. Any sunglasses you buy should block at least 99% of UVA and UVB rays and screen out 75-90% of visible light to ensure maximum protection. Labels can be misleading, so read them carefully or consult an optician.

There is a wide range of lens colours on the market. Many people assume that the darker the lens, the better it is, but that is not always the case. An article in the July issue of Chatelaine recommends brown lenses because they block blue light and distort colours less. Green and grey lenses can also minimize colour distortion.

Polarized lenses block glare and reflection, but are not necessary for protecting your eyes against UV radiation. If you do a lot of water sports or long road trips, polarized lenses may be the best option.

Fortunately, there are lots of stylish options that offer full protection for your eyes. Happy shopping and enjoy the bright sunny days of summer!

--Adapted from http://vision.about.com/od/eyeglasses/a/Sunglasses.htm

Gorgeous Hair and Skin—From the Inside Out

As the saying goes, you are what you eat. For beautiful hair and healthy, glowing skin, head to the grocery store and get yourself some of these wonder foods:

• Blueberries. This delicious fruit has so many health benefits, it’s not surprising to see it on this list. The antioxidants protect your skin from premature aging.

• Low-fat yogurt. We know that calcium is great for your bones, but it is also important for hair growth.

• Nuts. The health benefits of nuts are well known. Brazil nuts contain selenium, which contributes to scalp health. Walnuts, almonds, cashews, and pecans also contain zinc. Zinc deficiency can lead to the shedding of hair. Try a simple snack that combines three powerhouse foods: toss blueberries and nuts with yogurt. You only need a handful of nuts each day to make a difference.

• Wild salmon. Wild salmon is great for skin. It is loaded with omega-3 fatty acids that help moisturize skin, and also contains selenium, which protects your skin from sun exposure. The selenium and omega-3s also promote scalp health.

• Oysters. Zinc contributes to healthy hair and aids in skin cell renewal and repair. Oysters are loaded with this important mineral.

• Dark green vegetables. Nutritionists will tell you to eat at least one dark green vegetable every day. They are excellent sources of vitamins A and C, which help your body produce sebum. Secreted by the hair follicles, sebum conditions hair naturally.

• Poultry and eggs. Both are excellent sources of protein. Protein deficiency can lead to brittle, weak hair and, in extreme cases, can cause the loss of hair colour.

• Legumes. Beans are another source of zinc and protein, but they also contain biotin. Although uncommon, biotin deficiencies can lead to brittle hair.

• Kiwi. The vitamin C and antioxidants in kiwi keep skin firm and help prevent wrinkles.

• Dark chocolate. Another great source of antioxidants, dark chocolate is easy to add to your diet! Dark chocolate helps skin stay hydrated and protects it from sun damage. Make sure the chocolate you eat is at least 60% cacao.

• Sweet potatoes and carrots. These deep orange vegetables are loaded with beta-carotene, an antioxidant that fights aging. The vitamin A they contain also promotes a healthy scalp.

Adapted from The Top 10 Superfoods for Gorgeous Skin and Hair and Top 10 Foods for Healthy Hair

Get In Shape in Just 60 Minutes a Week!

When it comes to exercise, many of us have the same complaint—no time to do a workout. But fitness experts are touting a new, highly efficient exercise routine that you can do at home in just three 20-minute sessions per week. All you need is a kettlebell.

According to Prevention magazine, the kettlebell (pictured here) delivers more fat-fighting and body-toning benefits than 30 minutes on the treadmill and 30 minutes of traditional weight lifting: “Unlike typical strength exercises in which you lift and lower weights slowly while keeping the rest of your body still, you swing the kettlebell rhythmically through full-body motions to get your heart rate up fast and target more muscles, especially in your core. The result is a speedy routine that triples your calorie burn up to 400 calories in 20 minutes.”

How does it work? Again, Prevention has the answer: “Unlike a dumbbell, in which the weight is equally balanced when you hold it, a kettlebell is asymmetrical. With most grips, your hand is set away from the heaviest part of the kettle bell, so you work harder and activate more muscles.”

It is important to get proper instruction, whether from a personal trainer or from a fitness video. (Prevention has a good introductory routine, but there are others available online and on DVD.) Take time to get used to the exercises and be sure to use proper form, especially in your core, so you do not end up hurting your back. You may want to start with a light weight until you are accustomed to the workout. For even better results, combine the kettlebell with a cardio workout on the same or alternate days.

Kettlebells are available at fitness equipment stores and many general merchandisers for around $20 or less, depending on the weight.

Delicious and Nutritious—Enjoy Asparagus Tonight

The bunches of asparagus that are starting to appear on grocery store shelves are a sure sign of spring.

According to Foodland Ontario, no one is sure where asparagus originated, but it was around in the times of Julius Caesar.

A recent article in Chatelaine showcased the nutritional benefits of asparagus. Did you know that asparagus is good for your skin? Six spears contain 25% of your recommended daily allowance of Vitamin A, an antioxidant that can protect the skin against sun damage and even help control breakouts. Asparagus is also high in potassium, thiamine and vitamin K, which promotes bone health.

Not only is it nutritious, asparagus is easy to prepare. Simply snap off the woody ends, steam for about four minutes, and serve as is or with bit of butter and lemon juice.

Asparagus is also fairly versatile. You can grill it or roast it, wrap steamed spears in an omelette, purée it in a soup, or sprinkle it with parmesan or asiago cheese. It also works well with soy and sesame.

So take advantage of asparagus season while it’s here. There are lots of great recipes available online. Just google “asparagus recipes” and go!

Some News about the Royal Wedding You Might Not Have Heard

There is so much buzz around the royal wedding, we felt we just had to say something about it. We are as excited as everyone else to see Kate Middleton’s dress and, of course, her hair, which some experts have decided she will wear up, perhaps in a low chignon. Others have concurred, betting on a half-up, half-down style.

But we decided to dig a little deeper to see what else is going on in conjunction with this big event.

First, there is a nice story here about how the lives of Will and Kate differed and then, ultimately, came together.

As for the wedding itself, we were happy to see the official royal wedding site, at http://www.officialroyalwedding2011.org/, give top billing to the Royal Wedding Charitable Gift Fund. Will and Kate have set up a fund for people who would like to mark the occasion of the royal wedding with a charitable donation. The website then talks about some of the organizations that could benefit from the fund, including: the Zoological Society of London; Greenhouse, an agency that helps disadvantaged youth find their potential through sport and dance programmes; and Dance United, which provides dance training for “those who are marginalised in society.” Kudos to the royals for this great idea!

A past recipient of the royal family’s largesse created what might be the most interesting portrait of the royal couple, inspired by Sid Vicious of the Sex Pistols and his girlfriend Nancy Spungen. Artist Rich Simmons is a Prince’s Trust recipient who started an art therapy organization that works with youth.

In addition to Kate Middleton’s dress, there has been a lot of speculation about the menu for the wedding celebrations. People magazine spoke with the chef who prepared meals for William and his brother Harry as children. He thinks the menu will be simple, even for the formal wedding breakfast. For the evening dinner, a less formal event, things will also be kept simple and might even include one of William’s favourites—the decidedly non-gourmet “cottage pie” (similar to what we in Canada would call shepherd’s pie).

Lastly, a bit of the strange side of big events like this with the Daily Mail’s summary of some of the “ghastly” royal wedding souvenirs. Tea bags, ashtrays, and a book called The Royal Wedding for Dummies are among the items listed here.

Great Lengths Cut-A-Thon for Sick Kids’ Hospital

Yes, it’s only March, but we are gearing up already for our third annual SickKids Cut-A-Thon!


Every June, the team at Great Lengths opens on a Sunday and offers regular-priced haircuts and mini-makeovers with proceeds going to the SickKids Hospital Foundation. But it’s not just haircuts—we make it a party! Last year guests enjoyed a BBQ and bake sale, and everyone got a goodie bag valued at over $40.

Watch our blog and our Facebook page for more information on this year’s Cut-A-Thon.

To learn more about the wonderful work that SickKids has done since its founding in 1875, we invite you to read its history. The hospital began in a rented 11-room house, but demand for its services quickly grew. Over the years, SickKids was involved in groundbreaking research and initiatives to improve public health, including the push for pasteurization of milk, the invention of Pablum, and new surgeries for children with heart defects and dislocated hips.

Great Lengths Hair Gallery is thrilled to support the vital work done at SickKids. We hope to see you at our Cut-A-Thon in June!

Argan Oil and Other Natural Beauty Products Getting Lots of Attention

Argan oil, the ingredient used in the Moroccan Oil line of hair care products sold at Great Lengths, is making a name for itself in other areas. A recent Montréal Gazette story noted that in addition to shampoos and other hair treatments, argan oil is being used in body lotions, facial exfoliants, and lip glosses. One Canadian company is even planning to incorporate the oil into mascara.


Argan oil is pressed from the kernels of the argan nut, shown here. It has more vitamin E than olive oil and contains lots of Omega 3, 6, and 9. Its unique properties make it a powerful hydrator and anti-aging product.

There are some concerns about the sustainability of harvesting argan oil. Awareness of the care needed to harvest the oil is high, with major cosmetics firm L’Oréal issuing a statement about its responsible sourcing practices and others highlighting their organic, eco-certified argan oil. Co-ops have also been established to ensure responsible harvesting and to give workers a fair wage for extracting the oil from the tree’s seeds.

Argan oil also figured prominently in February’s Vivaness show, Europe’s leading trade fair for natural personal care and wellness. Along with argan oil, some other natural products also made headlines: sage, grape, lavender, juniper berry, cypress, rose, sallow thorn, ginger, lime, donkey’s milk, and seed oils of black cumin, pumpkin, raspberry, red grape and cranberry.

Sounds like some fascinating formulations await us at the cosmetics counter!

March is Nutrition Month!

We’ve talked about nutrition on our blog before, not just because it’s important for your physical health, but also because a balanced diet ensures that your hair and skin look their best.

March is Nutrition Month in Canada and, as pioneering nutritionist Adelle Davis once said, “We are indeed much more than what we eat, but what we eat can nevertheless help us to be much more than what we are.” With that quote in mind, we have pulled together some tips for improving your diet from dietitians across Canada.

The Vancouver Sun consulted various dietitians to get their best nutrition advice. You can read the whole article on the Sun’s website, but here are a few samples of the tips offered. To add more fruit to your diet try tossing a few berries in your cereal or making a fruit and yogurt smoothie in the morning. Watch for excess calories in the drinks you consume—lattes, energy drinks, beer, and wine can add a lot of extra calories per serving. And try to cook more and eat out less in order to get healthier, lower sodium meals.

 

Canada’s dietitians have been hard at work on a new cookbook, which they launched at the beginning of the month. The book is called Dietitians of Canada COOK! and it includes 275 recipes that use Canadian ingredients along with some basic cooking instructions.

If you are a little tentative about cooking for yourself or if you need help managing the grocery budget, there are some great tips here, including good ideas about where to get some basic instruction in cooking.

Bon Appetit!

Spring Fashion is All about Colour

Yes, we know it is hard to imagine the warmth of spring in the middle of February, but we’d like to liven up a cold winter day with thoughts of brighter days to come.

To that end, we’ll summarize some of the hot fashion trends for spring, courtesy of Flare.com.

• Colour is everywhere and the brighter, the better. Oranges, reds, and bright pinks are among the most popular shades.

• Along with all of that colour comes some very bold patterns. Colour blocking of unexpected shades is one trend (seen here), as are bold florals and stripes (seen here).

• Comfort is in, as seen in wide-legged pants, relaxed tailoring, and beautifully draped fabrics.

• Contrasting trends are also making an appearance. The seeming opposite of the bold colours and prints described above, some designers showed a minimalist trend for spring, with clean lines and light colours.

• Makeup is also following the trend towards brighter colours, with bright magenta and orange for lips and bold blues, greens, and even yellows for eyes.

Not ready to don an outfit with bold swaths of turquoise and orange or take a chance on magenta lipstick? You are not alone. In our next post, we’ll talk about some of the subtle ways you can incorporate the latest colour trends in your look without going overboard.

Tempted by That Heart-Shaped Box of Chocolates? Go Ahead and Indulge

At this time of year, chocolate is everywhere. You might be interested to know that, on a global scale, Canadians are way down on the list of chocolate consumption. According to one source, we consumed about 3.9 kg of chocolate per capita in 2005, nowhere near the amount eaten in Germany (11.12 kg per person), Belgium (11.03 kg per person), or Switzerland (10.74 kg per person).

Despite our lower consumption, we in North America do love our chocolate. It is the favourite flavour of 52% of us, with fruit flavours and vanilla being first choice for a mere 12% of us. Seems we like chocolate most during the dark days of winter, the season where the most chocolate is consumed. Many of us also like to eat it before bed—22% of all chocolate consumption occurs between 8PM and midnight. (Find more facts at The World Atlas of Chocolate.)

The health benefits of chocolate have been widely reported in the past few years. It contains antioxidants, which can reduce the risk of developing cancer and heart disease. Initial studies have also discovered a possible link between chocolate consumption and a lower risk of stroke and stroke-related mortality. Chocolate is a major source of dietary copper. It is also rich in minerals like iron and magnesium.

Chocolate consumption has been linked to longer life—but only if eaten in small amounts. Those who indulge three or more times a week have been shown to have higher mortality rates than those who enjoy chocolate one to three times per month.

So indulge in that box of Valentine’s chocolates, but, for the sake of your health, eat it slowly and savour every bite!

February is Heart Month

February is Heart Month in Canada. The Heart & Stroke Foundation uses this month to raise funds and awareness about heart disease and stroke.

In support of their efforts, we would like to share some valuable information about heart disease and stroke. (All facts and figures come from http://www.heartandstroke.com.)

· Nine in ten Canadians have at least one risk factor for heart disease or stroke. These risk factors include: smoking, physical inactivity and unhealthy diet, high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, being overweight, stress, diabetes, and excessive consumption of alcohol.

· Adopting a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and a balanced diet can help reduce your risk. If you are overweight, even a 5% drop in your weight can make a big difference.

· Excess weight around the waist is more dangerous than extra pounds around the hips or thighs. To find out if you have a healthy waistline, click this link.

· Heart disease and stroke are the leading causes of death among women. Women can visit thehearttruth.com to learn more about their specific risks.

· Many people do not recognize the signs of a heart attack or stroke and fail to get medical treatment in time. If you or someone you know is at risk, knowing the signs and symptoms of a stroke or heart attack could make all the difference. Click these links to learn more: heart attack warning signs or stroke warning signs.

Learning more about heart disease and stroke is one of the best preventative measures we can take. We invite you to share this blog post and spread the word about the risks, signs, and preventative strategies for heart disease and stroke.

Help Your Colour Last Longer with Joico K-PAK Color Therapy Shampoo

We are often asked to recommend a product that can preserve colour and strengthen coloured hair. Our answer: Joico K-PAK Color Therapy Shampoo.

Joico’s Colour Therapy line of hair care products doubles the life of a hair colour’s vibrancy and repairs and strengthens damaged hair. It also reduces breakage by 65% and increases shine by 50% after just one use.

The science behind the shampoo is described on the Joico website. Basically, the products target the B-layer of hair. The B-layer is the outermost layer of the hair cuticle. Its job is to protect the internal structure of the hair against environmental damage. It also prevents excess water from penetrating the hair shaft.

The absorption of too much water is a key factor in colour loss. Chemically damaged hair becomes more absorptive. Absorption causes swelling of the hair, which leads to the loss of colour molecules. Joico’s Color Therapy products help hair repel water to within 5% of virgin hair. In other words, it makes hair act very nearly like it has never been coloured.

In addition to preserving colour, the products add elasticity and shine to coloured hair.

Joico K-PAK Colour Therapy shampoo and other products in the Joico line are available at Great Lengths Hair Gallery.

Making and Keeping New Year’s Resolutions

By now you’ve probably made your New Year’s resolutions. But how do you keep them?

In the corporate world, employees are encouraged to set goals that follow five principles, summarized with the acronym SMART: specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound. You can use these same principles in your New Year’s resolutions.

Consider an example. A resolution to lose weight is pretty vague and may not get you very far. But if you resolve to lose 15 pounds by St. Patrick’s Day, you have a goal that fulfills all of the SMART criteria: it is a specific number that you can measure and attain by your deadline.

Similarly, a goal to spend less and save more is not as focused as a SMART goal of saving $500 by June 30. Want to make it relevant? Decide what you will do with the $500—contribute to your RRSP, make a charitable donation, or put it in your education or vacation fund.

You might also find it helpful to write down your resolutions. Having goals in mind is great, but writing them down makes you feel like you’re really committed to them. A written list also gives you a benchmark for tracking your achievements. Seeing your progress will give you incentive to continue.

So get a pen and paper and get started on those SMART resolutions. By this time next year, you’ll be celebrating what you have accomplished and looking forward to achieving more!