Recreating the same look!

HOW TO RECREATE YOUR SALON HAIR AT HOME

Here are some steps you can take to make sure you are capable of recreating your salon hairstyle. Let’s talk about them so you can finally master styling your hair the way you have been dreaming of.

PICTURES 
One of the easiest steps in recreating your salon hairstyle at home is to take some pictures of your hair the day you have it done. Take a picture of your hair from the front, the side and the back. It can be very helpful to go back and look at photos when you are attempting to recreate the style. Without pictures, you have no point of reference.

NOTES
As your hairstylist is styling your hair, take some notes. When you notice something she is doing that you did not realize was part of the styling process, put it in your phone notes. It is easy to key them in and save. You can read them later when you need the reminder of how to style your hair.

PRODUCTS
Products do make a difference, ladies. You don’t have to buy every hair product that your hairstylist uses on your hair but you should buy the ones that really make a difference. Ask her which products she recommends for you. You won't believe how easy it is to recreate your look at home with the proper products!

TOOLS
You cannot expect a low end hair tool to perform as well as a high end hair tool. There are exceptions but for the most part, it is true. Figure out the flat iron your hair stylist was using and giving you the sleek, soft look when you left the salon. It would be a good idea to buy the same hair tool and have much better luck with recreating the salon style.

QUESTIONS
It’s okay to ask questions. Your hairstylist will not mind. She loves doing hair and making women feel good about themselves. Asking questions can make a big difference. It means the difference between guessing and feeling confident in a new styling technique. Asking questions can clear up any confusion you may have.


TUTORIALS
Tutorials can be helpful in learning to style your hair. there are tutorials for almost anything you can imagine on YouTube, including hairstyles. If you know that your hairstylist used some root teasing to give you the look you love, do a search for that technique. You can do this for many different hairstyle techniques. An advantage to this is that you can do this at your own pace and watch it as many times as you need to.


TEACHING LESSON
If you are really struggling to recreate your salon hairstyle at home and it’s important to you, go back for a teaching session. Ask if there is a time you can come in and receive some individualized instruction. Of course you will need to compensate her for her time and be sure to tell her that you will do so up front. This one-on-one time can make all the difference. You will leave the salon feeling confident in your styling techniques.

Better Makeup

PERFECT YOUR MAKEUP

For some girls, it’s tough to find the reason as to why your makeup is just not looking right, so here are a few tips to make your makeup look better and more flattering. There are some very common mistakes that are made when it comes to applying makeup. The easiest way to learn about makeup application is through YouTube videos, blogs, and other beauty sources. You can also schedule a makeup lesson at the salon to give you hands on education. 

BLEND
Blending is one of the most important things to do when it comes to makeup application. Failing to blend your makeup will result in harsh lines and an unnatural look. You want your makeup to blend with your skin. Blend your foundation, eye shadow, concealer and blushes and keep it as natural as possible.

EYEBROW PERFECTION
Getting your eyebrows done will make a huge difference to your face. Clean eyebrows will create an even nicer shape to your face as well. Once they’re all cleaned up, it’s easier to fill in your eyebrows to make them nice and defined. You can use a pencil or powder to fill them in. This will make your makeup look flawless. 

CONTOUR & HIGHLIGHT
Contouring and highlighting will create an optical illusion to make your nose appear slimmer, cheekbones defined, and entire face as well. The contour is a shade or two darker than your skin tone, and should be matte. As long as you do this carefully and blend, this will make your makeup look even better.

LIP LINER
Lipstick and glosses are beautiful on their own, but adding lip liner will make such a difference. When you line your lips, your lips appear bigger and more defined. Make sure the liner is the same shade as the lipstick you use. Apply some gloss on top and you will be all set.
 
RIGHT MATCH
One very common mistake when it comes to makeup application is the foundation shade. It’s very hard to find a shade that matches us individually. Make sure you test the color in natural light, because different lighting can sometimes be deceiving. The right foundation shade for you will make your face look natural and you won’t have two different skin tones on your face and neck.

SKINCARE
Some people aren’t aware of the fact that skincare does change the way your makeup applies. Washing your face and taking care of your skin will make a difference. Your makeup will apply way more flawlessly and will give an airbrushed effect, along with the fact that you will have minimized pores, less blemishes and smoother skin. Make sure you take your makeup off at night, cleanse, exfoliate, tone, and moisturize regularly.
 
RIGHT COLOR
Along with the right foundation shade, it’s also good to choose colors that will bring out your individual tones. The colors of your shadows, lipsticks and blushes should flatter your eyes and skin tone. If you have brown or dark eyes, go for warm colors. If you have light eyes and a lighter complexion, go for cool tones.
 
OVERDOING
Another important rule to makeup application is not overdoing it. Too much makeup takes away from our natural beauty. We use makeup to enhance our look, rather than create it. Apply your makeup with a light hand. It’s always best to pick up little amounts of product and build it up appropriately. That way you don’t apply too much and will have trouble blending.
 
PRIMER & SETTING
For those who don’t know, primer is applied before any makeup. This makes your makeup go on better and last longer. Some primers also minimize the look of pores. This creates a smooth and even base for your foundation. Setting your makeup can be done with a spray or powder. This will also ensure long lasting makeup, as well as prevent it getting oily throughout the day.

 

 

 

Longer Hair

TIPS FOR GROWING OUT YOUR HAIR

If you’re looking for some tips for growing out your hair, here are some great options to help you along the way. Growing your hair out comes down to pure science. After that, it is quite simple. No worries, you don’t need to resort to pricey extensions to get those long, luxurious locks.

Eat Protein

One of the first tips for growing your hair out is eating plenty of protein. Your hair is basically made of protein, so skimping in this department slows down collagen production, which can actually stunt the growth of your hair. Eat at least 20-30 grams per meal. You may even lose a little weight since protein satisfies you more than fat or carbs.  Fish, eggs, organic chicken, raw protein powder, organic Greek yogurt, nuts and seeds are some great protein sources. Depending on your diet, choose the ones that work for you.

Take Biotin

Biotin is a great supplement if you want long and healthy hair. Biotin is also great for your skin and nails. Biotin is a B vitamin, so your body can’t get too much of it and will excrete the excess itself. Biotin is found in foods like eggs, fish, nuts and seeds. I like supplements that are extra strength, such as 5000 mcg.  Biotin strengthens the hair and helps it grow since it aids in collagen production, preventing the breakdown of proteins.

 Avoid Excessive Heat

Put away all those hair tools for awhile, give yourself and your hair a break. If you’re brave, let your hair air dry instead of using your blow dryer. Anything you can do to reduce heat, tugging, and overly brushing your hair will help it grow faster.

 Leafy Greens

Leafy greens are not just great for your body, but they are also great for your hair. Leafy greens are rich in iron, folate, Vitamin E and some B vitamins. Some like spinach are also a great source of protein. Leafy greens nourish your cells on a deep level and keep you beautiful in all areas.

 Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds like almonds, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, chia seeds and hemp seeds are also excellent for your hair. These foods are rich in three key nutrients that your hair needs for growth and strength, including zinc, selenium and B vitamins. Their healthy fats also help your hair stay moist to prevent breakage.

Coconut Oil

Put about a nickel size of coconut oil on your hands and rub them together. Then, comb through your hair, mainly on the ends of your hair and in the back after drying it to seal in moisture. I don’t recommend putting it at the scalp if you’ve already washed your hair since it might make it look oily. You can also use it as a hair mask and wash it out if you want. By not washing it out, the oil has time to set in and really do its thing.

Avoid Sugar

Sugar, along with alcohol and too much caffeine, are horrible for your hair. These three things break down collagen at alarming rates and can increase acne, hair breakage, and pretty much make you unhealthy overall. They also lead to mood swings, which promote stress. When you are stressed, collagen immediately breaks down in your body faster than any other time. Anything you can do to de-stress is also recommended, like yoga, walking or spending time with friends.

 Commit 

By far, one of the biggest things that us girls do when we are growing our hair out is get bored. We want a new style and so we change it, and typically chop it off. If you want long hair, you've got to commit to not cutting it completely off and just getting regular trims! 

 Don't Shampoo Everyday

If you are one of those people that shampoo your hair every single day and you are trying to grow your hair out, stop! Shampooing your hair every single day is actually going to take away all of those beautiful natural oils that you've built there. Give your hair a schedule and shampoo it every other day.

Tie Your Hair up

Tying your hair up is another great way that a lot of people don't think about when they are growing out their hair! Tying up your hair causes a better flow of oxygen to the outside of your hair and stimulates the follicles!

 Argon Oil

Argon oil isn't exactly a treatment, it's something that you can leave in and it's fantastic for your hair, and helps grow it out! Just a bit on the ends, a bit through it twice or three times a week and you'll love your new long hair!

Deep Condition Treatment

When you are trying to grow your hair out, the health of your hair is very, very important to take care of your hair, so you've got to make sure that you are deep conditioning too! Remember the coconut oil? You can use that or your favorite conditioner!

Massage Scalp

Stimulating the hair follicles is most important, so giving yourself an awesome scalp massage is huge! Just twice or three times a week, fifteen minutes or so and you'll see huge results!

 

Balayage/Ombre Hair

WHY SHOULD YOU BALAYAGE/OMBRE YOUR HAIR

The reasons to get the Balayage/Ombre hair you’re about to read should convince you to give this style a go, proving that the wow factor isn’t the only benefit you can expect should you decide to become one of many stylish ladies rocking Balayage/Ombre hair dye. Here are some reasons you should consider this beautiful look...

Trendy

Balayage/Ombre certainly is a hairstyle to go for if you’re into trends and fashion. Celebrities love it, bloggers love it, hairstylists love it, magazine editors as well – it’s a foolproof way to ensure a trendy look! Furthermore, if you’re trying to find at least a few reasons to get Balayage/Ombre hair, this one probably isn’t something you’ll want to dismiss easily.

Low Maintenance

It’s perfectly imperfect and made to look like a seriously overgrown dye-job in its final stages. You get to keep your regrowth and mid-length, with the ends being the only sections to receive a shot of color. The bottom line? No regrowth to require a touch-up this time next month because they should remain the way they are.

Easy to do at Home

Unlike most other trendy looks and even basic color jobs, Balayage/Ombre is super-easy to do at home! We have heard girls complaining about a streaky “Ombre” they’ve gotten from unknowledgeable stylists, yet most of the girls who did it as a fun, DIY ended up with a gorgeous style.
  
It’s Different

It’s not a full color job, yet it's much different than highlights too; it’s more glamorous than dip color. The Balayage/Ombre hair color technique is simply unique, made for girls who don’t mind standing out and a perfect choice if you like to experiment on your hair.

Doesn’t Cause Too Much Damage

Hair colors do damage no matter how you look at it, and bleach and light colors are hands down the worst of all. But dry, brittle hair isn’t the only downside of using harsh chemicals. Let’s not forget that you’re putting them on your scalp as well, which can ultimately affect hair growth and even damage the skin on your scalp. Balayage/Ombre, on the other hand, allows you to get an interesting and, dramatic change without having to risk all that damage. Your ends may sustain some amount of damage (especially if you’re going for a big contrast), but your regrowth and mid-length will remain intact. And since ends are pretty much the most disposable part of your hair, sacrificing them for the sake of style and good looks shouldn’t be so hard to do.

Easy to Transition from

The biggest problem with any new hair color or style is the fact that once you do it, going back to your old look isn’t at all easy. Balayage/Ombre techniques let you have your fun, dramatic change without dozens of what-ifs! Once you decide you don’t want it anymore, all you have to do is chop the ends off or color them back into your natural color. Great reason to get Ombre hair, isn’t it?

Keeping your hair healthy while being pregnant!

KEEP YOUR HAIR HEALTHY DURING YOUR PREGNANCY

Do you need to know some of the ways to keep your hair healthy when you're pregnant? Your hair may be in great condition, as the pregnancy hormones mean that you're not shedding as you normally would. Some women find that their hair is more difficult during pregnancy though. 

Diet

The main reason why it's important to eat well during pregnancy is for the health of your baby, but a good diet will also benefit your hair. Feeding your growing child takes a lot out of your body, and your hair will be of secondary importance. So make sure that you eat a healthy diet. Eat whole grains, fruit and vegetables, and lean protein, and avoid comfort eating.

Conditioning

You may find that your hair is drier than normal. If this happens, give it a weekly conditioning treatment.  If necessary, switch your shampoo to one that is more moisturizing as well as giving your hair this conditioning treatment.

Hair Breakage

You may find that your hair is prone to breakage during your pregnancy. Again, this is because of the hormonal changes occurring in your body. It can be overdone by heat, so let your hair dry naturally or use a low setting on your dryer. Use a deep conditioner and get your hair trimmed regularly to help keep your hair healthy.

Prepare for Shedding

The downside of not losing hairs during the pregnancy is that you'll lose them a few months after the baby is born. So be prepared for this to happen. It can seem as though you're losing far too much, but that's simply because your hair is catching up with its normal growth cycle. 

 Hair can be really funny during pregnancy. You may even find that your normally straight hair becomes curly when you're pregnant, or the opposite.

Beach Hair

REJUVENATE YOUR HAIR AFTER THE BEACH

Everyone loves a day spent relaxing by the water, except for your hair, that is. The salty sea air and water can do serious damage to your hair if you’re not careful. Here are some ways to rejuvenate your hair after a day spent near the waves!

Leave-in Conditioner

Leave-in conditioner is definitely one of the fastest and easiest ways to rejuvenate your hair. Spray a little bit in your damp hair, and you’ll notice a world of difference when your hair dries. It will feel soft, even if you just spent the day swimming in salt water!

Dry Shampoo

If your hair looks a little grimy after a day at the beach, spray some dry shampoo in it. Not only will it get rid of any grease and build-up, but dry shampoo also adds a nice texture to your hair, as well as giving your hair a lot of volume to play with!

Play with Your Natural Texture

If you just spent the day at the beach, there’s a fairly good chance that the salty air has helped your hair achieve the beach waves goodness we all attempt to replicate on a daily basis. If you’re satisfied with how it looks naturally, leave it rather than try to tame it with different oils and moisturizers!

Coconut Oil

If you have thin hair, proceed with caution when it comes to coconut oil, it can leave the hair looking greasy. It’s a great moisturizer for your hair, especially after a day at the beach, when you’re looking for something that will get the job done while smelling as amazing as the beach you just left. If you apply it before, it can help seal in your hair cuticles and protect them from damage.

Do Some Prep Work

If you’re worried about damage before you go to the beach, you can try a moisturizing mask or a leave-in conditioner before you head out. If you’re spending the day at the pool rather than the beach, there are so many products we offer that will save your hair from chlorine damage, whether you’re blonde or brunette!

Give Your Hair a Break

Both before and after a day at the beach, it’s important to give your hair some time off. Don’t run straight to the flat iron or blow dryer after a day at the beach, no matter how tempting it may seem. Think of it this way: you’re worn out after a day at the beach, and so is your hair. Don’t put it through too much after a day of salty air and swimming!

Try a Moisturizing Mask

If your hair is in major need of repair after a day at the beach, try our brazilian blowout hair masque or our intense hydrator. The night after a day at the beach, slather your hair with a moisturizing mask to get it back to its original softness. In fact, your hair may even be softer than you remember!

Why cleaning your makeup brushes is important

WHY CLEANING YOUR MAKEUP BRUSHES IS IMPORTANT

Makeup brushes can accumulate old makeup, dirt, oil, dead skin and bacteria. As we're about to see, there are so many reasons to clean your makeup brushes on an average of every two weeks. Here's what happens if you don't.

 ACNE 

Putting bacteria and germs back onto your face with a sticky, dusty makeup brush can aggravate underlying skin conditions like acne. If you have an open sore, pore or cracked skin, bacteria can start an infection. You'll be swapping the infection back and forth creating a never-ending cycle of breakouts.

  
SKIN IRRITATION
 
Makeup bristles caked with product can dry out, causing them to become brittle, making them abrasive to your skin. Wiping scratchy makeup brushes on the face can irritate and roughen the texture of your soft skin. It can even make your skin look dull. Cleaning your brushes on the regular keeps them soft.

  
HERPES & PINK EYE
 
Your lip gloss and mascara containers are a dark and moist environment, where herpes loves to live. You can clean your lip gloss wands and your lipstick with a spritz of rubbing alcohol. Please, never share your lip/eye brushes, mascara or eyeliner with anyone! You'll just be swapping germs.

CONTAMINATION

Cosmetic gels and creams are wet environments waiting for your dirty brush bristles, where bacteria can multiply. Liquid makeup gets older much faster than powder. Have a separate brush for each cosmetic to avoid contamination between them.

CHANGES IN COLOR

If your makeup brushes are dirty, the intended shade will not appear on your skin as its true color. Also, blending and contouring your makeup for those dramatic effects will be difficult. You want your skin to look as smooth as porcelain after you put on your makeup. Dirty makeup brushes with leave you with a spotty face.

DESTROY THE BRUSHES

Makeup creams left to dry can stiffen the bristles of makeup brushes and destroying them. Quality makeup brushes can be expensive. Cleaning them will maintain their softness and strength keeping them in good shape longer. You can opt to purchase disposable brushes or cheaper brushes to replace more often.

NO HANDS

Dirty makeup brushes are just as bad as using your fingers. Putting foundation, powder, or shadow on your face, even with clean hands, is a no-no. The oils on your hands spread bacteria around your face much more easily than brushes. We don't want bacteria on our faces because it can cause blemishes and other nasty skin irritations. Putting your hands on your face can even spread flu and cold germs.