Nexxus Salon Haircare Creative Director and Celebrity Stylist Kevin Mancuso, who has worked with A-list celebs like Natalie Portman, Kristen Bell and Taylor Swift, debunks some popular haircare misconceptions:

MYTH: Frequent trims make hair grow faster

Truth: You are likely to have heard your mother tout the old adage that hair will grow faster with frequent trims. And while cutting hair may make it appear healthier, it has no effect on growth rate.

If you are trying to grow your hair out, Kevin says your best bet is to use a reparative treatment like Nexxus ProMend Split End Binding Targeted Leave-in Treatment Crème prior to daily styling. The revolutionary product actually binds damaged ends back together in just one use for beautifully strong, healthy hair that can last longer between trims!

MYTH: Mayonnaise and eggs make great deep conditioners

Truth: Keep those at-home remedies in the kitchen and away from your hair! Not only are they messy and malodorous, but egg protein and mayonnaise oil molecules are too big to get inside the hair shaft for any reparative benefits. Instead, use a deep conditioning treatment like Nexxus Humectress Hydrating Treatment Deep Conditioner which contains Keratin, avocado and honey extracts to strengthen and moisturize parched hair.

MYTH: Switching shampoos will make hair healthier

Truth: Hair cannot build up a tolerance to your favorite shampoo, causing it to be less effective. If hair is looking a bit lackluster, the real culprit is probably a build-up of conditioner or styling products, not your shampoo. Use a light formula like Nexxus Diamatress Luscious Volumizing Shampoo, says Mancuso, to gently remove dulling build-up, restore vibrancy and add fullness to hair.

MYTH: Brushing hair 100 strokes a day will make it grow faster

Truth: Excessive styling and brushing actually pulls hairs out at the follicle, weakens strands and can lead to breakage. Stick to brushing only in conjunction with daily styling. Mancuso recommends using a 100% natural boar bristle brush which adds shine to hair and gently stimulates the scalp without harsh bristles.

Natalie Portman’s Hairstyle: Natalie Portman’s new movie “Black Swan” may be getting big buzz, but it was her look at last night’s, September 12th, 2010, Toronto Independent Film Festival red carpet premiere that had everyone talking. As a stark contrast to the structured bun she wore in the film, Nexxus Creative Director Kevin Mancuso choose to create soft, feminine waves to complement her black and white Jason Wu dress.

Kevin, who has worked with A-listers like Emma Roberts, Blake Lively, Naomi Watts and Taylor Swift, shares with Marta Walsh his tips for recreating Natalie’s hairdo at home: “I wanted to bring out the natural, organic beauty of Natalie’s hair,” said Mancuso “so I went for touchable texture and a feminine silhouette.”

PREP:

· Shampoo and condition hair with volumizing products, like Nexxus Diametress Shampoo and Sublime Volume Conditioner, to give hair extra body.

· Apply a curl enhancing mousse, like Nexxus Gorgeous Curls, all over, combing through to ends.

STYLE:

· After blow-drying with a diffuser, smooth ends with a round brush and transfer warm hair to large Velcro rollers.

· Once cool, remove rollers and tousle hair with fingers, before creating a soft side part.

· Use a medium barrel curling iron to create curls around the face.

· Continue to create curls around the back of hair, concentrating on the bottom half of hair.

· After hair cools, tousle again with fingers to release the curls and create more of a ‘wave’ effect.

FINISH:

· Apply a dime-size amount of a taming lotion like, Nexxus Sleek Finish, to fingers and gently run over hair to help define and control waves.

· Finish with a light misting of hairspray, like Nexxus Comb Thru, for hold with movement.

Nexxus Salon Hair Care announces the addition of hairstylist Paul Norton to the Nexxus Artistic Team. Paul is a rising star within the beauty industry. Celebrity clients include Robin Wright, Taylor Swift, Dianna Agron, Hayden Panettiere and Emmy Rossum.

Celebrity Stylist Paul Norton

As the brand’s newest Celebrity Stylist, Paul will be appearing at consumer and industry events and will also help to create content for Nexxus online platforms. Paul will be featured in a series of instructive “how-to” style videos launching on the Nexxus Facebook page. Paul will also communicate directly with Nexxus Facebook fans, as he answers their questions about Nexxus products and styling techniques, while providing insider tips for achieving healthy, beautiful, salon-quality hair at home.

After training under Ginger Boyle, Aveda’s Global Master, and graduating from the Aveda Institute/Aveda Advanced Academy in 2001, Paul spent 15 years honing his skills at notable salons in NY and LA. He has worked alongside some of the industry’s most notable stylists including Tabitha Coffee of “BRAVO’s” Shear Genius fame. For the past two years, Paul has been cutting and styling his loyal clientele at the Warren-Tricomi salon in West Hollywood, California. Paul is currently working with “Access Hollywood” to develop a series of beauty and styling segments.

Paul’s philosophy is that a woman’s personal beauty is enhanced when she works with, her natural texture, just slightly refined, to create a look that she can call her own. He understands that every woman is unique and that her hair should represent her own style rather than conform to trends. He likes to work one-on-one with his clients to help them define that style for themselves. Paul believes that with the right mix of products and easy-to-follow instructions all women can produce salon-quality results at home.

Create a polished and professional look for your next interview with these how-to tips from celebrity hairstylist Kevin Mancuso and products from Nexxus Salon Hair Care.

“During an interview, you want your hair to complement your professional skills. Pick a classic style, like a chic bun, for a sophisticated look that will help seal the deal.” – Kevin Mancuso, Nexxus Creative Director

Prep

Help hair look its best with a deep conditioning treatment, like Nexxus Humectress Hydrating Treatment, a day or two before the interview.

Style

On the day of the interview, wet hair and apply Nexxus Thermal Volume for lasting volume and protection against heat damage. Women with finer hair should try using a spray gel, like Nexxus Lavish Body, for more control and hold.

Create a deep side part and then blow-dry locks with a large round brush.

Pull hair back into a low ponytail and secure loosely with a clear elastic band.

Take hair and twist into a bun, securing ends with a few bobbi pins.

Finish

Finish look with a misting of light-weight hairspray, such as Nexxus Comb Thru (Marta’s favorite!), to set the style.

Shear Genius 3: Episode 10. “Who Will Prove To Be Shear Genius?” Nexxus Salon Hair Care is back as the official hair care sponsor for the third season of BRAVO’s hit reality series, Shear Genius, a new style of competition. Nexxus Creative Director Kevin Mancuso offers tips on styling so that anyone can achieve a salon style at home.

This week’s “how to get the look” from Kevin:

Take inspiration from last night’s Henry Duarte Fashion Show and keep hair simple and polished when “rocking” an edgy headband.

1. Apply a sleek styler, such as Nexxus Sleek Memory, to damp hair, and then blow-dry using a large round brush.

2. Once dry, pull hair back into a low ponytail and secure with an elastic.

3. Twist loose ends into a bun and secure with a bobbi pin.

4. To finish the look, add a bold and unique accessory.

Recap of Show

It all comes down to this! The final three stylists, Brig, Janine and Matthew, met up with Orlando and Camila to receive their final challenge: “Create six looks for a Henry Duarte Fashion Show.” Each stylist consulted with Henry, who said he wanted futuristic hairstyles to complement his edgy fashions.

At the Shear Genius Nexxus Salon, the stylists picked their assistants from a grouping of their former competitors. Since Brig won the prior elimination challenge, she was able to choose her own two assistants and determine the order of who would choose after her.

Once the assistants were chosen, Janine immediately began wrapping her models’ hair around large hairpins to set in major frizz. Brig decided on her most avant-garde look yet – what she called “laminated hair.” The look consisted of multi-colored hairpieces stuck in between plastic and layered on top of the models’ simple buns. Matthew also got to work quickly on his vision, “bondage hair,” with zippers, tightly bound mohawks and even extreme foreheads courtesy of a few skullcaps.

After the runway show, the stylists met with their final four judges, Jonathan, Kim, Camila and Allure Editor-in-Chief Linda Wells. While all of the judges agreed that Brig’s work was unique and edgy, Jonathan criticized the use of props and lack of hairstyling. As for Matthew’s hairstyles, Linda called the zippers on his hair fun, but found his skullcap looks to be ugly and jarring. Kim called it hot, but was also bothered by the unsettling effect of the skullcap. Janine’s looks also underwhelmed the judges. Jonathan praised her for great technical work but complained that it wasn’t quite enough for this stage of the competition. Linda thought Janine’s work was beautiful, but Camila commented that she’d seen the look on the runway before.

In what some may call a shocking upset, it was Brig who ultimately rose to become Shear Genius. Her visionary approach not only won her the title, but $100,000 furnished by Nexxus Salon Hair Care, an apprenticeship with Nexxus and the opportunity to style hair for an Allure magazine photo shoot. Congratulations, Brig!

For more from Kevin Mancuso and to learn about “Shear Genius Season 3,” become a fan of Nexxus on Facebook

Nexxus Salon Hair Care is back as the official hair care sponsor for the third season of BRAVO’s hit reality series, Shear Genius, a new style of competition. Nexxus Creative Director Kevin Mancuso offers tips on styling so that anyone can achieve a salon style at home.

Voluminous Waves:

1. Apply a volumizing gel styler, such as Nexxus Lavish Body, to damp hair, and then blow-dry using a large round brush.

2. While hair is still warm, wrap two inch sections around large Velcro rollers and allow hair to cool.

3. Remove rollers and back comb each section at the root to create lift and body.

4. Use fingers to shape sections into a unique style and pin curls randomly in the back. Then spray hair with a strong-hold hairspray, like Nexxus Maxximum, to hold the look in place.

Voluminous Updo:

1. Apply a texture lotion, such as Nexxus VersaStyler, to damp hair, and then blow-dry using a diffuser attachment.

2. Once dry, use a flat brush to comb hair into a high, tight ponytail on top of head. Secure with an elastic.

3. Gently twist loose ends into a bun and secure with a bobbi pins. You want the texture to come through here, so don’t twist hair too tightly.

4. Apply a dime size amount of a smoothing product, such as Nexxus Sleek Finish, onto your fingers and run over the bottom half of hair, avoiding the bun portion.

Shear Genius 3 Episode 9 Show Recap:

The stylists were feeling the pressure this week as they were whisked away to a VIP client’s mansion in the hills for their shortcut challenge. Their VIP client? Camila Alves, of course – and she was also the sole judge for the challenge. Orlando Pita was on hand to consult with Camila and the stylists, and he warned them all that Camila is very particular about her hair. Each stylist was given 45 minutes to create a glamorous hairstyle appropriate for the red carpet. They each seemed to struggle with her hair texture. Brig had to edit her vision to suit Camila’s taste and neither was at all happy with the finished product. Jon’s nerves got the better of him once again. In fact, he got so wound up that he singed Camila with a curling iron. Camila also took each styling session as an opportunity to dish on the drama between the stylists, taking particular interest in Brig’s personality clashes with her competitors. Matthew found the gossip session to be distracting. Janine was happy to complain about Brig but her down hairstyle didn’t impress Orlando or Camila. In the end, Matthew’s near perfect updo won the challenge and an advantage at elimination.

Afterwards at the salon, they stylists were introduced to an iconic guest judge, Oribe. Then Camila revealed the elimination challenge: “Creating a Portfolio of Your Signature Style.” Their task was to create three looks for a portfolio that make up each stylist’s ‘signature style.’ The stylists had to work with two models and then, for the twist, style themselves. How well they made a statement about their style and tied the three looks together would ultimately determine which three stylists would make it to the season finale.

Janine was inspired by modern Harajuku looks from Japan. While one model’s edgy style fit the bill, the second model’s oddly-shaped afro seemed out of place. Janine’s own photo failed to bring any of it together. Jon appeared to know exactly who he was – the ‘cut and color guy’ – and while he delivered a finished look on a model with thinning hair and a clearly defined self-portrait, his second model underwhelmed the judges. Matthew went for soft and sexy on both of his models and while their photos were striking the judges didn’t like Matthew’s self-portrait, calling it a real estate agent headshot. Brig went for it in this challenge, finally deciding to take a chance on her own brand of avant garde hair and hoping the judges would see her vision. It was big and textured and striking on set, and while the judges were taken aback at first, they all came around to her side of thinking when they saw the finished photos.

At judging, Matthew and Brig were congratulated as the top two. Brig’s fearlessness and distinct branding won her the challenge and both won their spot in the finale. Janine and Jon landed in the bottom two – but it was Jon’s run-of-the-mill styles that sent him home. So, in the end, it will be the Wonder Twins versus Brig – as it’s been all season long. Expect a dramatic finale next week!

For more from Kevin Mancuso and to learn about “Shear Genius Season 3,” become a fan of Nexxus on Facebook.

How to get the perfect profile picture and that picture perfect hair by Celebrity Stylist Kevin Mancuso.

Kevin Mancuso

In the age of social media, Facebook and Twitter, it is more important than ever for women to have a professional headshot of themselves to share with the online world. Celebrity hairstylist Kevin Mancuso – who has worked on countless photo shoots with the likes of Natalie Portman, Naomi Watts, America Ferrara and Cindy Crawford to name a few – can show you exactly how to capture that picture perfect hair.

“In my experience, I’ve noticed that women either over do it or don’t do enough to prepare for a photo shoot. Try to go for a more natural look when preparing for your headshot to ensure the photograph captures the best and most beautiful version of you.” – Kevin Mancuso, Nexxus Creative Director

On March 10th, 2010, Kevin appeared as a guest on Bravo’s hit reality hair competition Shear Genius Season 3, where he judged the work of top stylists. From years of experience on photo shoots, Kevin provided his insights on exactly what works and what doesn’t.

Prepping Hair for the Shoot:

· Try to get a trim or haircut a week or so before the shoot, so hair looks healthy.

· If you color your hair, make sure your roots are done. You should also use a color protecting shampoo and conditioner, like Nexxus Dualiste, before the shoot to maintain the color and keep hair looking vibrant.

Styling the Day of the Shoot:

· Try pulling hair in front of shoulders for close shots to help elongate your face and instantly make you look thinner.

· Avoid tightly pulled back hair since it can make you look harsh and unapproachable.

· A flattering amount of body will always make hair look healthy and natural. Try using a volumizing mousse, like Nexxus Thermal Volume, before blow-drying to protect hair from heat damage and help build bounce.

What to Wear:

· Pick clothes that are flattering to not only your body type, but also your hairstyle. Big collars are a major “don’t” with down hairstyles, and low-cut shirts should be avoided when working an updo.

Nexxus Comb Thru Natural Hold Design and Finishing Mist hairspray is my new favorite. I apply it last, after I’m done styling my hair. Nexxus Comb Thru adds even more shine to my hair and makes my blow out last. It’s not sticky and it doesn’t make my hair feel like a broom stick.

Visit www.nexxus.com for more details.

Natalie Portman at the Vanity Fair 2010 Academy Awards party: The Hairstyle

For a second year in a row, red-carpet darling Natalie Portman has tapped celebrity stylist and Nexxus Creative Director Kevin Mancuso to create her award season hairstyles. Last night, Kevin gave Natalie Portman a flawless updo for the exclusive and star-studded Vanity Fair party.

“I really wanted to give her a Bridget Bardot meets Audrey Hepburn style,” said Mancuso, “there’s nothing like an old Hollywood style for a young Hollywood actress!”

How to get Natalie Portman’s Vanity Fair 2010 Academy Awards party hairdo:

Kevin Mancuso – who brought you the celebrity hair bible, The Mane Thing, and worked on such a-list names as Sienna Miller, Blake Lively, Naomi Watts and Taylor Swift – offers his tips for recreating Natalie’s red carpet style at home:

PREP:

· Shampoo and condition hair with body building products, such as Nexxus Diametress and Sublime Volume, to help give hair lift.

STYLE:

· Apply a volumizing spray gel, like Nexxus Lavish Body, from roots to ends, then blow-dry with a paddle brush, directing hair up and away from face and lifting at the root.

· When roots are almost dry, switch to a round brush and blow-dry ends, smoothing as you go.

· While hair is still warm, transfer one-inch sections to Velcro rollers and let completely cool, then remove and tousle hair with a bit of smoothing lotion, such as Nexxus Sleek Finish.

· Remove a one-inch front section of hair and then pull the rest gently back into a mid-level ponytail, securing with an elastic.

· Use bobbi pins to artfully sculpt loose ends into a soft updo.

FINISH:

· Use a flat iron to smooth front curl and help position hair around face, then finish look with a light misting of a hairspray, like Nexxus Comb Thru.

Nexxus Salon Hair Care is returning as the official hair care sponsor of Shear Genius, Bravo’s hit reality hair competition.

The cast of Shear Genius Season 3. Photo credit: BRAVO

Bravo’s creative hair-styling competition series “Shear Genius” premieres Wednesday, February 3 at 11 p.m. ET/PT with a whole new look. Nexxus Salon Hair Care, official hair care sponsor of the show, has partnered with Bravo for a third season of high-stakes action. For the first time, “Shear Genius” has gone international. After combing the world for top stylists, Bravo has assembled 12 remarkably-talented individuals who will raise the level of competition to hair-raising heights. Each week, the show will offer expert tips and how-tos, as well as fashionable hairdos created exclusively with Nexxus products.

“We are thrilled to be back for a third season,” said Rob Keen, Nexxus Brand Director. “Partnering with a program that celebrates the professional community and provides viewers with an insight into the world of hair care is a natural fit for Nexxus, a company with 30 years of salon experience.”

International model and handbag designer Camila Alves makes her hosting debut alongside new series judge Jonathan Antin, celebrity stylist and former star of Bravo’s hit series “Blow Out.” Famed stylist Kim Vo returns as a judge for his second season, and, new to the series, accomplished stylist Orlando Pita adds his voice of expertise as mentor to the contestants. Nexxus Creative Director and renowned stylist Kevin Mancuso will also join the panel on Wednesday, March 10th for the Nexxus Challenge episode

The world of styling is much bigger than just a salon – and Bravo’s “Shear Genius” offers a glimpse into that captivating and little-known arena. This season the challenges are more glamorous, the hair more knotty, and the competition more fierce, as the contestants attempt to demonstrate that their style is a cut above the rest.

Every Wednesday, beginning February 3rd, contestants will lather, rinse and compete in the “Shear Genius” Nexxus Salon. Fans of the show can enjoy the competition online by signing up with Nexxus on Facebook (click here – http://www.facebook.com/nexxus ) to receive tips for recreating the winning looks at home, “blow” by “blow” commentary from Nexxus Creative Director and celebrity guest judge Kevin Mancuso, and much more!