2010: A Hair Odyssey

So, let's start this tale in true classic form, in medias res. I have undergone four color treatments since early December. There was a series of color situations not enjoyed by me, leaving me with nearly every possible hair color except the one I like to be, which is dark golden blonde with some lighter honey highlights. In the past month, I've been a platinum LA blonde, a redhead/strawberry blonde hybrid and a brunette. I've endured my true friends telling me, in not so many words, to "change that shit back immediately." (Thanks, Heather. You were RIGHT).

But then, I'd fall victim to my own version of Odysseus' Sirens. Odysseus WANTED to get back home to Ithaca and return to his dear Penelope. I, in turn, simply wanted to return to my normal Amber Hair Color, to be hereby referred to as AHC. But on my journey, I'd get these emails, enticing me with the Siren call of free color. I'd think, Oh! THIS person will just get me back to my regular shade. But no. Each time, I'd end up a new, unexpected color of the rainbow and each time, I'd be further and further from Ithaca (AHC--are you following?). Odysseus' fatal flaw was hubris; mine is hair vanity.

So anyway, late last week, I got word that I'd be heading to the Sundance Film Festival to live-blog for Daily Makeover, sponsored by L'Oreal. And mama is NOT going to Sundance to interact with the likes of Ben Affleck and other such spicy celebs as a brunette. No. That is NOT what is happening. So I booked an emergency appointment with my gal Jane at Hiro Haraguchi for some emergency back-to-blonde highlights. She stripped some of the red and brown out before embarking on some new highlights and lowlights. It was stressful, but she was truly the modern day equivalent of one of the Phaecians (mariners who listen to Odysseus' story and help him get home).

In the end, we're not TOTALLY at Ithaca (AHC)... but we're far closer. Penelope is within view. My hair is still a touch strawberry for my liking, but I'm relieved to feel a little more me. But: My hair is NOT happy with me. Can you imagine how it feels after enduring La Brasiliana and four color treatments in five weeks? So I employed a little secret weapon: Alterna Ten Masque for 20 minutes today and it nursed my ravaged strands back to health. You can actually feel it emulsify in-shower when you apply it to wet hair. I was able to comb through easily and quickly blow-dry it with no drama. Now, it does cost the earth ($55 for 5.01 oz). But there are times when you need to bust out the big guns--and clearly (CLEARLY) this was one of them.

Keep it on hand the next time you find yourself on a hair odyssey. You won't be sorry.



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