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Martha Ellen Mabry

Hairstylist & Salon Owner

Martha Ellen Mabry is a Hairstylist and the founder of Headchop Hair Studio in Brooklyn, New York. Martha Ellen founded Headchop in 2011 and has been providing high-quality hair styling services in New York ever since. In 2023, Martha Ellen expanded her business to include Lil’ Chop, an express version of Headchop focused on quick and easy in-and-out hair styling. In addition to running two businesses, Martha Ellen's specialties include dry cutting, natural curl and texture, extensions, brow microblading, lamination, freckle tattooing, as well as wedding and event styling. Martha Ellen works exclusively with Great Lengths extensions specializing in changes for length, density, and chemical-free color.

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Q&A Comments (4)

How can I shave my short hair without experiencing razor burn?
Shaving short hair without razor burn takes some care. It's key that the skin has enough slip. I'd recommend using a scalp oil since it provides needed lubrication. Just like you wouldn't shave your legs without shave cream, the same idea applies to the head. Using a shaving cream or lotion will help protect the skin from typical razor burns, particularly when cutting the hair super close. The right products give that slick barrier so the razor glides smoothly over the skin.
How can you crinkle hair without using direct heat, and if opting for a heat option, what tools do you recommend?
When styling, especially synthetic hair, it's key to go wet to dry without direct hot tools or irons. You can use a blow dryer on low heat to speed up drying, but it's best to use pin curl clips and pin the hair up. Another good option is Velcro rollers to create a roller set that lets the hair dry into shape. My top non-heat picks are pin curl clips and Velcro rollers. If you want a heat tool for real human hair, I love the Tea tree series. They have an iron that can be a single or with clamps. Their versatile Trio tool switches between sizes - it's like three tools in one! These are fantastic for hair, safe, and have adjustable temps so they protect your hair.
How should you use steam rollers on short hair?
When using any roller on short hair, it's key that the hair isn't tangled. The section you select should be a bit narrower than the roller and not longer than it. This prevents too much hair on the roller. I suggest finger combing to get rid of tangles and align strands by length. If damp, a brush might work better. Using a setting lotion can make the style last. As you roll, neatly tuck the edges so there's no messy look or crinkles. Roll the hair smoothly back and toward the head until snug to the scalp. The goal is getting each section smooth against the roller.
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Co-authored Articles (9)

How to

Razor Cut Bangs

Cutting bangs may seem intimidating, but it is actually quite simple. If you are afraid that cutting your own bangs will result in chunky, crooked strands, don't be. With the help of a razor comb, you can get several dif...

How to

Use Sponge Rollers

A simple guide to curling your hair with sponge rollers Sponge rollers are a retro heat-free alternative to curling irons and wands. Experiment with different styles without worrying about damaging your hair. Use small ...

How to

Make Your Hair Look Naturally Curly

Whether you have straight or wavy hair, there are lots of ways you can achieve natural looking ringlets. Heat styling tools like curling irons and diffusers can help you create and lock in curls. If you’re trying to av...

How to

Style an Undercut

An undercut is a trendy, versatile hairstyle that features long hair on the top and short, clipped hair on the sides and back. With the right tools and some product, you can easily style your undercut so it's brushed up,...

How to

Curl Your Hair with Tongs

When it comes to hair, we all want what we can’t have; people with straight hair want curls, and people with curls want straight hair. Taking a hot iron to your hair can be intimidating, especially if you have never do...

How to

Frizz Your Hair

Frizzing your hair can be a great part of your costume for Halloween or any costuming occasion. This hairstyle is very inexpensive, but it is a little labour and time intensive. For this style, you will need to get a fri...

How to

Create an American 1940s Hairstyle

So you've got the 1940s fashion down, but do you have the hair? Straight, sleek modern hair was not in. Neither was a messy look. Perfectly styled, voluminous hair was the trend throughout the decade and following into t...

How to

Style a Bang Wave

If you have naturally wavy hair ''and'' you have bangs, you’ve probably struggled with the issue of styling them. In fact, some people think that bangs are only suitable for people with straight, smooth hair. Curls nea...

How to

Crimp Your Hair Overnight

Whether you want tight curls or soft, beachy waves, adding a crimp to your hair is a great way to give it a new style and texture. However, heating elements such curling, crimping, and waving irons can cause long-term da...