The Ultimate Guide To Fixing Bolivian Hair

Bolivian hair care is an interesting topic, with a variety of factors influencing the market and the styles adopted by Bolivians. From the impact of the pandemic, which saw men embracing a more natural look with dry hair and wax styling agents, to the challenges of navigating hair care in a foreign language, there are many considerations when it comes to hair care in Bolivia. With the rise of beauty training centres and the introduction of innovative products, such as onion-based shampoos, the hair care landscape in Bolivia is evolving. This paragraph aims to introduce the topic of how to fix Bolivian hair by providing context on the broader trends and influences shaping hair care practices in the country.

Choosing a hairdresser in La Paz

Choosing a hairdresser can be a daunting task, especially when in a new city. Here are some tips to help you find the right hairdresser for you in La Paz, Bolivia:

Recommendations and Research:

Start by asking your friends or locals for recommendations. Word-of-mouth is a powerful tool, and a good stylist knows that their best advertisement is their clients walking around with great hair. If you see someone with a hairstyle you admire, ask them for their hairdresser's details. If you don't know anyone in the area, online research can be your best friend. Look for top hair salons in La Paz and check out their websites and social media pages. Many salons nowadays have an online presence, showcase their staff and their work through pictures and videos.

Consultations:

Once you've narrowed down a few potential hairdressers, consider booking a consultation. A good hairdresser will offer a free consultation, ideally separate from the appointment, to understand your hair needs and expectations. During the consultation, pay attention to whether they listen to your requests and offer realistic suggestions. A consultation will also give you a chance to get a feel for the salon and the hairdresser's skill and expertise.

Specialization and Experience:

Consider the specialization and experience level of the hairdresser. If you're looking for a particular service, such as colouring or a specific style like balayage, seek out a specialist in that field. Additionally, if you have a particular hair type, such as curly or fine hair, choosing a hairdresser with a similar hair texture can be beneficial as they will have first-hand experience in managing that hair type.

Online Reviews and Popularity:

Online reviews can provide valuable insights into the quality of a hairdresser's work. Check out sites like Facebook, Google Reviews, or specialized platforms like Treatwell, where customers share their experiences and ratings. Look for recent reviews and before-and-after pictures to gauge the hairdresser's skill. Additionally, consider choosing a hairdresser with a busy schedule; a long waiting list is often a good indicator that they are in high demand for a reason.

Communication and Comfort:

Effective communication is key to getting the hairstyle you want. Choose a hairdresser who listens to your requests and concerns and is patient in answering your questions. It's also important to feel comfortable and at ease with your hairdresser, as you'll be spending time with them and trusting them with your hair.

Salon Environment and Products:

The salon environment can also play a role in your decision. Choose a salon that is clean, well-organized, and uses premium products. While premium products don't always guarantee a better outcome, they can indicate that the salon invests in quality. Additionally, big brands typically conduct research before associating their products with a salon, so it can be an indirect endorsement of the hairdresser's skill.

Remember, taking the time to research and consult with potential hairdressers in La Paz will help ensure that you find someone who understands your hair needs and can provide you with a great hairstyle.

Communicating hair needs

Communicating your hair needs is essential, especially when visiting a salon in a foreign country. Here are some tips to ensure your hair needs are met when visiting a Bolivian hairdresser:

Know What You Want

Before stepping into the salon, it's important to have a clear idea of what you want. Do you want a specific colour or style? Are you looking for a simple trim or a complete makeover? Knowing exactly what you want will help you communicate your needs effectively.

Bring References

Visual aids can be incredibly helpful when explaining your desired hairstyle to your stylist. Bring photos or magazines that show the style or colour you want to achieve. This will help ensure that you and your stylist are on the same page and avoid any potential language barrier issues.

Seek Help

If you're not confident in your language skills, consider bringing someone who can translate and help communicate your needs to the stylist. This could be a friend, a language teacher, or even a language translation app on your phone. Effective communication will help ensure you get the results you want.

Be Open to Suggestions

While it's important to know what you want, it's also crucial to be open to the expertise of your stylist. They may suggest a slightly different colour or style that would better suit your hair type or face shape. Remember, they are the professionals, and sometimes their suggestions can lead to an even better result than you initially envisioned.

Ask Questions

Throughout the process, don't be afraid to ask questions. If you're unsure about a particular product or technique, inquire about it. Understanding what products and tools the stylist is using can help you replicate the style at home and also ensure that you're comfortable with the process.

Provide Feedback

During the styling process, provide feedback to your stylist. If you're not happy with the colour or cut, speak up! Stylists want you to leave the salon feeling happy and confident, so they will appreciate your honesty. It's better to voice your concerns during the process rather than after it's too late to make changes.

Remember, effective communication is key to achieving your desired hairstyle. By following these tips, you can ensure that you and your Bolivian stylist are on the same page, and you'll leave the salon feeling fabulous!

Styling with wax

When styling with wax, it's important to choose the right product for your hair type and the style you want to achieve. There are different types of hair waxes available, from sticks to creams, pomades, and sprays, each offering different levels of hold, shine, and texture.

If you're looking for a strong hold without the shine, a hair wax stick is a great option. These are usually non-greasy and can help control flyaways, smooth frizz, and create sleek styles like braids and spikes. Wax sticks are also perfect for creating buns and are suitable for all hair types, including curly hair and wigs. Simply rub a small amount of the product between your palms to activate it, and start applying it from the roots before styling your hair as desired.

For short hair, a flexible hold cream or paste can provide a lo-shine finish and body. These products offer pliable texture and flexible hold, allowing you to create various styles. If you're looking for more of a matte finish, a lightweight clay or matte texture clay can give your hair workable hold and bulked-up, broken-in looks. These products are ideal for short hair and can add texture without weighing your hair down.

If you want to add shine to your hair, a hi-shine pomade or gel can be a great option. Pomades can provide subtle hold and elegance to any hair length or style, while reducing frizz and creating definition. Hi-hold styling gels, on the other hand, can create sleek styles with shine and are ideal for short to medium lengths.

For those who want an undone, textured look, a texturizing spray-wax hybrid can give you that piecey, lived-in texture with buildable separation, light hold, and natural sheen. This type of product is perfect for those who want the look of day 2 hair on day 1.

When using hair wax, it's important to start with a small amount and add more as needed. This will help you avoid using too much product, which can make your hair feel sticky or greasy. Additionally, make sure to distribute the product evenly throughout your hair to achieve the desired style.

Shampoo and treatment

Shampooing and treating Bolivian hair requires the use of the right products and techniques to ensure healthy and shiny locks. Here is a guide to help you achieve that:

Firstly, it is important to select a suitable shampoo for your hair type. If you have dry or damaged hair, opt for a moisturising shampoo that contains natural oils or plant-based ingredients. For oily hair, choose a gentle, clarifying shampoo that removes excess sebum without stripping the hair of its natural oils. Those with coloured or chemically treated hair should use a colour-protecting or repairing shampoo to maintain the vibrancy and health of their hair.

When shampooing, gently massage the product into your scalp with your fingertips. Avoid using your nails as this can cause scratching and damage to the scalp. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water to remove all traces of shampoo. Repeat the shampooing process if needed, especially if you have oily hair or a tendency to build-up.

Deep conditioning treatments are an essential part of the hair care routine for Bolivians. Look for treatments that are designed for your specific hair concerns, such as dryness, damage, or colour protection. Apply the treatment generously to clean, damp hair, ensuring that every strand is coated. Use a wide-tooth comb to distribute the product evenly and gently massage your scalp to stimulate blood flow. Leave the treatment on for the recommended time, which can range from a few minutes to an hour, depending on the product. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water, and finish with a cold-water rinse to seal the cuticle and add extra shine.

For an extra boost of moisture and nourishment, consider using natural oils such as coconut, olive, or argan oil. Apply a small amount of oil to the ends of your hair, avoiding the roots to prevent greasiness. This can be done as a leave-in treatment or overnight for a more intensive result.

It is recommended to shampoo and treat Bolivian hair at least once a week. However, those with dry or damaged hair may benefit from reducing the frequency to every two weeks to prevent further drying or damage.

Colouring

When it comes to colouring Bolivian hair, there are numerous techniques to choose from, each offering a unique look and style. Here is a detailed guide to help you achieve your desired colour:

Balayage

Derived from the French word "to sweep", balayage is a freehand technique that creates natural-looking highlights. This method involves hand-painting the hair with colour, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends to achieve a sun-kissed effect. Balayage is a low-maintenance option that ensures seamless colour transitions.

Ombre

Ombre is a gradient hair colouring technique that creates a striking contrast. It involves a transition from a darker shade at the roots to a lighter shade towards the ends. Ombre is versatile and can be customised to suit various hair lengths and textures, often featuring bold, vibrant colours.

Highlighting and Lowlights

Highlighting adds lighter strands to the hair to create dimension and depth. Foils or caps are used to isolate sections of hair before lightening them. Highlights can range from subtle, natural shades to bold, contrasting tones. Conversely, lowlights involve adding darker shades to the hair, enhancing depth and richness. They are often used to add dimension to solid colours or blend grey hair.

Babylights

Babylights are ultra-fine, delicate highlights inspired by the natural highlights seen in children's hair. They provide a subtle, soft enhancement, resulting in a natural, sun-kissed look.

Sombré

Short for "soft ombre", sombré is a more subtle variation of the ombre technique. It offers a more gradual colour transition with a softer contrast between the roots and ends, resulting in a more natural appearance and making it a popular choice for those seeking low-maintenance styles.

Colour Melting

Colour melting seamlessly blends multiple colours, creating a smooth and harmonious effect. This technique uses shades from the same colour family, resulting in a beautifully blended, multidimensional look.

Dip Dyeing

Dip dyeing involves immersing the ends of the hair into a vibrant colour, creating a bold contrast with the natural hair colour. This technique allows for creative experimentation with unconventional colours and is a fun way to express your unique style.

Root Smudging

Root smudging softens the contrast between the hair colour and root regrowth, blending the root area with the rest of the hair. This technique extends the time between salon visits while creating a seamless transition.

Fantasy Colours

Fantasy colours encompass a wide range of vibrant, unconventional shades such as pastels, neons, and metallic hues. This technique offers limitless creativity and self-expression, making it ideal for those seeking a bold and unique look.

Grey Blending

Grey blending is a technique used to seamlessly blend and camouflage grey hair with natural or dyed hair. It involves strategically adding highlights or lowlights to create a more uniform and blended appearance, reducing the contrast between grey and coloured hair.

Global Hair Colour

Global hair colour refers to dyeing the entire head of hair in a single shade or a combination of colours. This technique is often used for complete transformations, covering natural hair colour or introducing a new, cohesive colour scheme.

Remember, when colouring your hair, it is essential to consult a professional stylist to ensure the process is safe and suits your hair type.

Frequently asked questions