Paul Mitchel's Angus Mitchel Weighs In On Winter Hair

The season's they are a changing... and your hair is definitely recognizing the winter woes. Angus Mitchel of Paul Mitchel answers the top 3 mane questions for beautifying shapeless winter hair:

1. My straight hair always looks limp and lifeless. Help!
Straight hair will benefit from a bodifying mousse, which helps enhance volume, add lift, and boost shine. I also encourage those with straight hair to choose a round brush when blow-drying to create a slight bend and prevent hair from laying flat against the head.

2. How do I make the most of my waves? They’re so shapeless!
The chief complaint with wavy hair is that it has no style or definition. A lightweight cream gel works to provide memory and long-lasting shape for waves that last all day. I recommend using a curling iron for an even more polished finish.

3. My curls are plagued by out-of-control frizz. What can I do to tame it?
The goal for those with curls is to banish frizz and flyaways. Apply a glossing serum and a curl definer to damp hair – the combination will make hair soft and manageable without adding stiffness or weight. When blow-drying, use a diffuser attachment to help create a more structured curl.

Trend Alert: Fall Hair From Paul Mitchel

Angus Mitchell, son of the infamous Paul, and Artistic Director of Education and Co-Owner of Paul Mitchell haircare gives us a head's up on fall's must-have hair styles.

Here are Angus' 3 trend choices to grace our tresses this fall.

So, ladies, if you have yet to choose a fall 'do, read carefully.

1. Classic shapes, like the shoulder-length graduated bob, are very chic for fall 2009. To give this cut more of a modern twist, we’re going to see added elements like thick bangs. Since this style requires sleek, straight hair, a must-have product is new Paul Mitchell Hot Off The Press – a thermal protectant spray that’s great before flat ironing hair.

Celeb inspiration: Katy Perry

2. Another great look that’s in this fall and never loses style is sexy, long and layered hair (almost the opposite of what’s above). For optimal results, try the new Paul Mitchell Fast Form - it reduces drying time when blow-drying long hair and offers slight hold

Celeb Inspiration: Jessica Alba

3. Color placement is another fall trend to watch, and this fall I’m most inspired by transitional dimension - a more lived-in, relaxed way of placing color. Colored hair needs extra hydration, so Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Lavender Mint Moisturizing Shampoo and Conditioner are must-haves.

Celeb inspiration: Gisele Bundchen and Kate Hudson

Think Pink - Shopping to Support BCA Pt. 1

Because breast cancer has affected so many women I know, these next few weeks I’ll be sharing a number of the fabulous, eco-gorgeous products that are available in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Paul Mitchell has partnered with Cancer Schmancer, founded by actress Fran Drescher to offer the limited-edition Paul Mitchell Pink Express Ion Smooth 1.25 for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Drescher, who was a hair dresser before she became an actress, is also a cancer survivor. Cancer Schmancer works to “empower patients to build relationships with their physicians, creating the intention of a stage-one diagnosis.”

The Paul Mitchell Pink Express Ion Smoother 1.25 uses a blend of silicone and ceramic which reduces styling time, controls frizz and leaves hair hydrated. Check out Sarah’s recent great flat iron how-to tips here. Retailing for $160 the flat iron is available through professional salons (use the online store locator or call 1.800.321.JPMS) through October.

We love Ojon at Beauty Banter and I am thrilled that he has created a Special Edition Revitalizing Mist – BCA leave-in detangler for this cause. Perfect for prepping your hair before styling, the mist smoothes the hair’s cuticle using eco-friendly ingredients, including the magical oil from the Tawira Indians that is the signature of his line. Retailing for $26, Ojon is donating 20% of the proceeds to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation, up to $35,000. Revitalizing Mist – BCA is available in stores and online at Sephora, Ulta and PureBeauty.

Throughout October you’ll find store shelves stocked with items featuring that trademark pink ribbon. There’s no way I will be able to cover all the great products out there but my advice to you is seek out those offering the greatest contributions to the cause, and that the funding goes directly to research, education and advocacy with trusted organizations, such as the BCRF, EIF, AVON and Susan G. Komen amongst others. This October, support the cause but also remember to take care of yourself. Each of the sites above offer support and educational resources. I'll be back with more great finds later this week. xo alex.

How To: 3 Spring Celebrity Hair Looks

I remember being rather young and looking forward to my morning showers - pre-school because I got to use Paul Mitchell's Awapuhi Shampoo. I was so obsessed with the tropical scent and the way it left my hair incredibly manageable (long before I began getting highlights, obvs), I'd save up my allowance just to buy Awapuhi from the beauty supply store.

Years later my godmother became engaged to the Paul Mitchell -- true story. Unfortunately, both passed away. But I am left with the memories of early mornings, hot showers and Hawaiian Island hair.

Paul Mitchell Artistic Director Stephanie Kocieiski dishes on 3 fast and simple hair looks for Spring.

Short & Sweet like Katie Holmes
"For a polished, sleek look apply a straightening serum to damp hair. Lift hair at the root and blast with heat from Paul Mitchell Express Ion Dry v2. Use a large, round brush to blow dry hair under and eliminate waves."
Product to Try: Super Skinny Serum



Curly Cues like Beyonce
"Apply a quick-drying styling cream to wet hair and comb through. Attach a diffuser onto Paul Mitchell Express Ion Dry v2 and blow dry hair to enhance your natural texture and volume."
Product to Try: Quick Slip Styling Cream



Beachy Waves like Kate Hudson
"Spray a firm hold hairspray all over dry hair. Twist small sections of hair around Paul Mitchell Express Curl 1.0. After each section is curled, loop and twist hair around fingers for a tousled look."
Product to Try: Hold Me Tight Finishing Spray

I'm a beach-chic, tousled hair kind of gal so I'm loving the whole finger curls look.

Which 'do is your favorite?