Gossip Across The Family Table

Timaru Herald, Volume CXLIII, Issue 20928, 6 January 1938, Page 8

Gossip Across The Family Table

White Hair Gives Distinction

f £’ , HERE is no question that white hair gives distinction to any woman, and, when well-groomed and well cared-for, can be one of the most envied possessions in the world. Such hair needs more care than any other, for it soils more quickly, and when neglected becomes harsh and discoloured. Keeping it healthy and lus-

trous is a full-time job, but one well worth the trouble. Most white hair is susceptible to heat, and I know of one lovely white head of hair developing canary-coloured streaks from exposure to sunlight, while another had similar disfiguring marks from cigarette smoke. Fortunately, permanent waving has improved to the extent that r» definite assurance can now be given that white hair can be waved without the least discolouration. In fact, I have seen streaky hair come out of the machine much whiter than it went in. This was partly due to a clever little trick on the hairdresser’s part with blueing solution. Waving with a marcel iron is rather a problem. Sometimes, no matter how much care and wisdom are exercised, slight discolorations will creep in. Even if this does occur it can be remedied, for there are prepared blue rinses to counteract any yellow. These work on the same principle as blueing clothes, in fact, some women still use the homely blue bag, but prepared rinses are kinder to the hair. Vivid blue and blue-mauve heads are so much in evidence that they no longer cause gasps of amazement. It is said that this fashion originated some years ago, when a smart American in Paris was having a last-minute shampoo before she sailed, and got an overdose of blue in the rinse. Not having time to have it washed out she boarded the ship with blue hair, which caused so much favourable comment that hairdressers have found a demand for it ever since. The fact that neither the permanent wave nor the coiffure will be right if the hair isn’t right must not be overlooked. White hair, with its tendency to grow stiff and coarse, needs softening and reconditioning. Brushing and hand massage, done at home, two or three times a week combined with a monthly professional treatment with medicated oils, will make it truly a shining crown of glory. The right shampoo is very important. A special Liquid shampoo, with a low alkaline content, should be used, and when drying th.t hair, care must be taken to avoid stung sunlight. If the drying is being done professionally, the hairdresser may need a little reminder to switch the dryer to low or medium temperature. The one thing to avoid is anything in the nature of an ointment or a lotion containing sulphur. It has the effect of giving white hair a peculiar greenish cast, particularly after a permaner wave. Blue or white brilliantine should be used, for .vhite hair usually needs an oily dressing, but for those who prefer something less oily, there is a French preparation, a combination of perfumed spirit and oil