I’ve heard countless times from girls who can’t seem to get their hairstyle just right. It’s so upsetting especially since when you go to the salon, they do such a perfect job on your hair, right? I know, I know – these are professionals we’re talking about here so it makes sense that since they went to beauty school that they’d know what they are doing. But I get frustrated when I can’t recreate the very look I’m trying to achieve!!

Shelly Ballestero has some tips for you frustrated ladies out there. In January 2009, she has a new book coming out, entitled Beauty by God (Regal Book, 2009). Check out some tips and suggestions she has to share that I really believe will get you going on your way to a more satisfying hairstyle:

Shampoo and conditioner are important for your style, because they create the foundation.

Depending on the style you want, you need to use the proper pre-style products.

A good blow dryer can make all the difference.

Brushes are important.

Flat irons and curling irons take a little extra time but can really make a difference in your style.

Finishing products are important as well… This last step really helps determine what your hair will do for the rest of the day.

Perhaps you are thinking of beauty school for hair design or maybe you just want to perfect your hairstyle on your own. No matter what, you can surely perfect your drying and styling techniques to help you in school and in front of the mirror.

-Amanda Fornecker

As a spa and beauty industry professional, you’ll need to be up on all the hot trends for the Fall season. See what this year’s beauty professionals need to know to keep their clients trendy, stylish, and happy.

Makeup Artists
This Fall, we’ll see lots of colored liners. Eyeshadows in shades of blue will be most popular. Think you won’t look good in blue? Think again. Match the shade of blue to the shade of your eye color, using paler shades for light eyes and navies for darker eyes.

Dark, vampy lips are very stylish this Fall too. Lips will be dramatic so dark browns are popular, as well as deep berry colors. The dark lips are especially good when a neutral and natural look has been created — this gives a more dramatic effect to the look.

Nail Technicians
Also extreme in the beauty industry will be nail colors. Dark grey (a rather neutral shade) and even black are going to be hot this Fall. If you’re not really into the whole black idea, then deep burgundies and rich reds are for you. See more about the nail trends here.

Wardrobe Stylists
To get the most stylish look this Fall, try various shades of purple — it is THE Fall color. From tops to skinny jeans to booties to clutches, purples are a great way to make your outfit pop. But don’t wear all of these items together in purple, for you don’t want to be too matchy-matchy. Accessorizing is key!

Hair Stylists
We’ve seen it before and we saw it at the Emmys on the likes of Marcia Cross, Heidi Klum, and Sandra Oh. It’s the bun — both tight and loose. This style will keep hair off the face, but will flow in a way to soften the look of a completely pulled-back hairstyle.

Estheticians
Glowing skin is not just for summertime. Be sure your clients use the right products to exfoliate, moisturize, and for foundation. These methods will leave skin looking healthy and fresh. Additionally, moisturizers with an SPF are so important, even after you’re not basking in the sun’s rays. Encourage clients to use products that have some sort of protection to keep their skin up-to-par.

You want to get it right for your clients this Fall and it’s all about dark shades and being extreme. So take some risks, work your magic, and if you haven’t already, get started on your beauty career!

-Amanda Fornecker

I need to be pampered. Seriously. I haven’t had a massage in almost two years and my hair is an absolute disaster! Luckily, I’m at ease (to an extent) about the professionals who can provide these services to me.

Really I love the beauty and fashion industries. Nothing thrills me more than a good pair of shoes or a beautiful leather bag. Being a stylist, I feel, would be so cool, but I don’t have the experience or training to deserve a stranger’s trust. The same goes for makeup. I’ve taught many-a-friend some tricks for their face, but that doesn’t mean I can make a career out of it. What separates me from someone who doesn’t know anything about fashion or makeup?

It comes down to credibility. Employers are far more probable to trust my journalistic judgment than to hire me as a stylist or makeup artist because that’s what my degree is in and that’s where I’ve worked before. However, if I wanted to I should definitely reach for the stars and get myself to beauty school.

I’ve seriously been considering a change lately in my appearance. Like I said, my hair is driving me crazy but I’m kind of nervous to just take the hair plunge! And I never know what to tell my hairdresser – how short do I want it? Do I want layers? Bangs? Ahhhh so many decisions!! Another problem is the fact that I’ve decided to switch hairdressers. I’m unhappy with mine and need a change. But who can I trust?! I’d love it if I really knew what to look for or if I could wear my hair differently than just my typical straight and oh-so-boring.

I need to spice it up! Maybe someone who’s like me can benefit from searching for a beauty program. And although I may stick to writing for now, a beauty career switch may be the way to go one day. And it’s then that I’ll be able to present my skills in a way that others can trust.

-Amanda Fornecker