These ideas will help long hair wearers grow and protect their crowing glory. Get ideas for both simple, affordable gifts as well as more unique and valuable gifts for important occasions. Can’t-miss gifts for any hair type.
1) Brushes and combs
Bore bristles are one of the best fibers for brushes and a handle from long-lasting material, such as mahogany or silver-plated metal, adds a nice touch. For a truly high-quality brush, choose a Mason Pearson model. The only downside to this brand is the price-from $50 to over $200. Another useful tool, especially for ladies with curly hair, is a pick or wide tooth comb made from tortoiseshell or wood.
2) Hair treatments
A VO5 hot oil treatment, available in stores, will benefit almost any type of hair. Another useful product for all hair types is a detoxifying cleanser, such as the one made by Ojon Hair. For women who swim or spend time at the beach, pick up a protective product like Kerastase’s Soleil Creme Aqua Resist or Phytoplage’s High-Protection Sun Oil.
If the woman you’re buying for routinely straightens her hair, consider an appointment for a Japanese chemical straightening. This process is relatively new, so few salons offer it and the price is rather high, but it’s permanent and safer than hot ironing.
3) Hair nutrition
By far the best way to grow healthy hair is good nutrition. Specially formulated hair vitamins, which contain amino acids, B complex vitamins, and other nutrients vital for hair growth, support not just the hair, but the whole body. There are even herbal tea mixes designed especially to promote hair health. These usually contain chamomile, lemon balm, nettles, and rosemary, among other herbs.
4) Hair-friendly stylers
Any long hair wearer will be glad to receive hair-safe alternatives to damaging hot irons and styling chemicals. For curl fans, pick up some flexirods or “hair twirlers,” bendable foam rods that add waves or ringlets. Salon quality Goldwell perm rods are also valuable styling aids. Women who like up-do’s will enjoy a pair of Asian hair sticks, which are available in a multitude of styles.
5) Styling books
There’s a lot you can do with long hair, but for busy women, it’s easy to fall into a style rut. A book like Braids and Styles for Long Hair by Andrea Jeffery, Vickie Terner, and Helen Mccallum can give your long hair lover some fresh ideas. Just be sure she’s open to receiving advice, though, or she could take this gift to mean you don’t like her current style.
6) Unique hair ornaments
Hair ornaments, meant more for looks than as styling aids, can be found to fit any lady’s tastes. Hair pins, clips, and combs are some of the most popular ways to enhance a hairstyle. If you’re looking for a truly luxurious gift, consider an antique hair ornament. The gold- or silver-plated models with precious stones inlaid can be expensive, but they can also become treasured heirlooms.
Other cultures can offer inspiration, too. Beyond Asian hair sticks, there’s a wide range of Japanese “kanzashi” ornaments made from lacquered wood, tortoiseshell, silk, and metal. Russian-style painted and lacquered hair clips are elegant and go with almost any wardrobe. For women who like showier accessories, try some Native American-style hair ornaments with feathers and beads.
When buying long hair accessories, look for pins with smooth, ball tips and clips with rubber padding where they grip the hair.
7) Hair bands and wraps
Headbands and wraps keep long hair from getting in the way. If you choose a headband made of plastic or metal, look for one without combs that can break the hair. Preferably, though, go for bands and wraps made of soft stretchy material. Snoods or bun wraps are another fun way to keep long hair in one place.
8) Nighttime hair care
Even cotton pillowcases can catch and break hair. To help the lady you’re buying for give her hair a good night’s sleep, give her some satin or silk pillowcases. A pair can run between $30 and $50. A silk travel pillowcase is good for women who spend a lot of time on the road. For a convenient go-anywhere alternative, pick up a silk nightcap.
9) Scarves
More than just fashion accents, silk and satin hair covers also protect the hair. For women with very long hair, choose larger silk scarves that will accommodate most of the hair. Hijabs worn by Muslim women are generous in size, so they’re great for any long-haired woman. Some beautifully designed ones can be found online.
10) Professional portraits
Because so many women cut their hair short after a certain age, it’s nice to have something to remember those long flowing tresses by. Book an appointment with a photographer who’ll allow several changes of hairstyle and clothes. At a quality photographer’s studio, you probably won’t get a dozen changes, but you should get enough to show the hair to its full advantage.
Reference:
- www.tenderheaded.com supplies brushes, combs, silk pillowcases and styling aids. ; www.longlocks.com is a good source for hairsticks and unique hair ornaments.
