Q: I feel like I am stuck in a rut. My hair needs major help and so do I! I'm a first-time mom, due in a couple weeks. I don't know what cut, length, colour or style would look good on me. 

My hair is pretty thin and oily. I try to go at least one day in between washes. It usually looks okay—not great—on the first day, but on the second day I usually just throw it up and put a headband on.

I don't get my hair coloured or highlighted, just trying to keep it safe for the baby. But I'm not totally against highlights.

ANY advice would be much appreciated! Thank you — RaeLynn

A: RaeLynn, thank you for your consultation request. Like most women, you are on the right track with your hair. You have been working with it long enough to get a sense of what looks good on you, and how much effort you are willing to put into styling.

Most heads of hair like a little second-day dirt for ponytails, top knots, etc. You get more texture and a messier, more desirable look. 

I think for your second-day default style, a small fringe would be amazing on you:

Add a bit of volume at your crown when you put it up. No, it will not be too dressy with your second day dirt working for you….

As for the rest of your cut, this is a great shape for you:

This length is perfect for wearing up or down. To get here, you will need to grow out your short layers, so leave them alone and just have the bottom edge trimmed until they catch up. 

For styling, you can run a flat iron through the ends to wear it straight. Or wrap them haphazardly around a curling wand for a wavy, messy texture:

Regarding highlights, my natural instinct is to always wait until the baby is born to be around any chemicals. Most non-ammonia products will be your safest bet. My favourite lightening agent for this is Chi Blondest Blonde Iconic Crème Lightener, which is terrific for the balayage technique. It's worth searching for a hairstylist who uses this product, especially if you have any health concerns. Asthma and other respiratory issues are triggered by ammonia and this is a safe bet.

This warm blonde colour and highlight placement would be fantastic on you: 

(Please keep in mind I would prefer you cut a fringe, otherwise this is a good length for you.)

If you go this route and colour your hair, you will find it dries it out a bit. Often this helps in avoiding oily hair that needs frequent washing. It is not a cure, but aids in making life a little simpler.

Happy happy to you and your new family member. Be well and stay safe.

billyxoxo