Hair's the Scoop

Mark Wilson/Getty Images

Got a minute? Check out this NY Times article on ethnic hair. It raises some really interesting points about our society's perception of texture, and its influence on everything from politics to pop culture.

Casey Rodgers/WireImage

According to The New York Times, a recent study suggests that redheads have a greater sensitivity to pain, are more resistant to local inhibitors like Novocaine, and tend to require a higher dose of anesthesia than those with brown, black or blonde hair.

Click here to read this fascinating article in full.

Johnny Wagner/Getty Images

Today's NY Times features a lengthy story on the events leading up to Sarah Palin's recent resignation, including the impact they've had on the Governor's health:

"Friends worried that she appeared anxious and underweight. Her hair had thinned to the point where she needed emergency help from her hairdresser and close friend, Jessica Steele. 'Honestly, I think all of it just broke her heart,' Ms. Steele said in an interview at her beauty parlor in Wasilla, the Beehive."

Have you ever suffered from stress-related hair loss?

BananaStock/Jupiter

According to the New York Times, at-home hair color is on the rise.

Yes, it's rather obvious statement given the current economic climate. But, read between the lines, and you'll discover a few noteworthy tidbits like:

Your colorist can help you shop for the right shade(s).
Many stylists are open to assisting clients choose the right brand and shade of DIY kits (for use between visits) to ensure their efforts are not compromised.

Mark your calender: A new, "foolproof" coloring system is launching in June.
Umberto Savone plans to unveil a new system called "U Color" ($12) that's packaged in sachets and simple to apply.

Have chemically-treated hair? A salon visit might be worth the splurge.
Home colorists get the best results when hair isn’t permed, relaxed or highlighted.

Click here to read the full article, and here for celebrity colorist Rita Hazan's tips on acing at-home hair color.

Brand X/Jupiter

DIY blowouts have been a recent phenomenon here in New York, with top salons offering their clients private styling lessons. (At an additional cost, of course.)

In theory, it's a great way to perfect your skills and save money in the long run. In practice, however, I've yet to see salon-quality results from an at-home attempt. My suggestion? Go with a girlfriend, flatmate, or family member, and learn to do each other's hair. The outcome will seem more professional, and it's a great excuse to spend time with someone you care about.

Click here to read more about this trend.