TheSalonGuy.com (He Knows Salons)

The Evolution Of The Hair Dryer

2010-03-09T21:08:00.001-05:00

Evolution which is characteristic of human civilization has brought about significant improvements in the way we live and how we style our hair. When Thomas Edison invented electricity the rush to create new ways use this amazing technology was launched. The modern day blow dryer has come a long way from its humble beginnings. There is no denying that the invention of the hair dryer was a major step in the evolution of the professional beauty industry and personal care. One example of just how far the hair dryer as evolved is the new BioIonic Nano i5X Conditioning Pro Hair Dryer.

Taking a glance back at the history of hair dryers we can see that the hair dryer was invented in the late 19th century by a French hairdresser. For the next 50 years bonnet hair dryers would become standard beauty salon equipment. The first hand held hair dryers were made of steel weighing over 2 lb and produced 100 watts of heat. By the 1960s, a light weight space age plastic pestle-grip blow dryer with 1500 watts of power was poised to change the look of hair fashions for both women and men and the professional beauty industry.

It would take an English hairdresser (guess who) to introduce a shapely geometric hair cut styled with a blow dryer to replace the bouffant roller set hair fashions of the time. What had taken an hour to create a hair style could now be achieve in minutes with a precession style cut and blow dryer. This was followed by the “dry look” for men and blow dryer became the must have new styling tool for professional and home styling.

To touch on the definition and use of this pestle griped wonder, it is sufficient to say that the blow dryer is a device used to dry “damp or wet hair” by blowing hot air over it. With the aid of a styling brush the damp hair can be transformed into a desirable shape and style. It must be noted that the natural shape of the hair fiber is attributed to its internal hydrogen bonds which can be temporarily altered when exposed to water and rearranged with the aid of heat and traction. Today’s hair dryer’s not only dry hair but also can improve the health and beauty of hair.

The new Bio-Ionic Nano i5X Conditioning Pro Hair Dryer is a streamlined thing of beauty with all the “bell’s and whistles” you’d expect in the 21st century. This ultra lightweight whisper quiet dryer features Nano Ionic technology which emits negative ions (good stuff) that break down clusters of water molecules into fine particles to re-hydrate, re-condition and preserve the moisture and elasticity from within the hair fiber. Simultaneously, the "ceramic far-infrared heat" cuts the drying time in half and polishes the hair shaft leaving it frizz free and soft to the touch with a shine you can see. You might call this new hair dryer a conditioner with a cord. And if time is money this bad boy says ...Ca-ching.

If you’re shopping around for a new hair dryer or thinking about trading in your “old clunker” you’ll no doubt be confronted with a wide range of choices and prices. From inexpensive conventional hair dryers that cost ($20-$40) to the top of the line professional dryer ($75 - $200+). While these are geared toward repeated use by professionals, they can be beneficial for personal use as they will no doubt last longer and give you professional results. If you are willing to pay the price for a professional hair dryer the BioIonic i5X Conditioning Pro Hair Dryer is well worth the investment.

Famous Burnettes

2010-02-23T14:28:00.001-05:00

There has always been an equally strong sex appeal between the hot blond, sexy red heads and the sultry brunettes. And since most blondes and red heads are created with a magical bottle of peroxide at the very least the sexy brunette's appeal is the real deal. Next to black brown hair may be the most common color but don’t be fooled into thinking that brunettes are boring.

The list of famous Hollywood brunette’s could fill a page. From the iconic Elizabeth Taylor, Jane Russell and Sophia Loren to current stars, Demi Moore, Cindy Crawford, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Sandra Bullock, Megan Fox, Jennifer Garner, Mandy Moore, Penelope Cruz, Eva Longoria and Angelina Jolie to list a few. All are perfect examples of the universal sex appeal of brunette hair.

With advancements in 21^st century hair color chemistry the choices are many. From rich chocolates, caramel and chestnuts hues, to sable, walnut, mahogany and golden browns, brunette hair color has never looked so good. Brunette hair offers a mysterious look with lots of rich texture and compliments most skin tones and facial features depending on the lightness or darkness of the shades. For those with “fair skin tones” opt for honey and copper to warm up a light complexion. Medium skin tones will look best in chestnut shades. Those with darker skin tones should opt for a more "pure" brunette like rich sable or chocolate brown for a knockout sultry effect. If you're having trouble spotting a brunette hair color you think will work for you, try flipping through some hairstyling or celebrity magazines. Many celebrities have switched to brunette for its deep, rich look. Cut out pictures of the brunette colors you like and take them to a hair stylist. A salon colorist can point you in the right direction with results that last and look amazing.

Brunette hair looks better when there is not one color but multi-tones with highlights, lowlights, or tint-backs to bring kind of a mixture together with the hairstyle. There are a wide variety of brunette hair color combinations that go very well with many hairstyles. To add some glamour to a brunette hue, try adding bronze highlights around the face to complement your skin tones and add dimension to your color. Highlights in golden blonde or a light copper red add instant pizzazz to brunette’s skin tones. Brunette hair color can fade and look drab. To keep your color looking rich, invest in a color replenishing shampoo for brunettes to boost your brown every time you use it. If you’re shopping around for a color fresher shampoo you’ll no doubt be confronted with a wide choice of brands and prices. For best results ask a professional after all who knows hair better then a hair colorist.

Halle Berry / Star Hair Style

2010-02-11T16:56:00.002-05:00

Drawing inspiration from the hair style trends of our favorite stars and celebrities has become a national pass time. One star hair style that’s eliminated by women around the globe is Hollywood super star Halle Berry. Like a chameleon, Halle changes her style and color often but it’s her chic sexy signature pixie style cut that has inspired women of all ages to trade in their long locks for this easy breezy liberating hairstyle.

TO GET THE LOOK:
Are you up for a liberating youthful short sassy hair do? If that's the case, Halle’s two toned hair color and short spunky coif is a perfect place to start. This head turning do’ with all the right accessories is a show stopper and youthful looking to boot. If you’re ready to take the plunge, let’s take it one step at a time; starting with a style cut and shaping.

LET’S SHAPE IT:
To get the look, start with contoured head hugging silhouette, feminine soft tapered neckline and "pixie" bangs for a flirty look. This fashion forward coif can be adjusted to suit most face shapes especial those with high cheek bones and slender features like Halle. If you’re having second thoughts about cutting your hair, not to worry with a few adjustments (trims) as it grows into the shape you can easily find the ideal length and shape for your personal style.

LET’S STYLE IT:
Talk about easy, this sassy do almost styles itself. To give your locks an extra boost start with a dab of styling balm, mousse or nothing at all. Just run either through damp hair and comb in place to dry au natural or give it a quick blow-dry for straight or textured effect. If your locks look a bit dry or frizz after, a dab of styling cream or spray pomade will tame it. For a dressy effect a few twists with a curling iron or quick press with a flat iron and you’ve got the look.

LET STRAIGHTEN IT:
If you have curly, wavy frizzy hair like Halle Berry then chances are you sometimes would like to trade it in for straight. To make hair styling quick and easy give your hair a Brazilian Blowout Treatment, “the dream relaxing treatment” for a smooth soft straight style whenever you wish and manageable, frizz-free healthy looking to boot. It literally gives everyone with unruly hair a straight smooth look that last for several months. The only drawback is that it can be addictive! Tame your locks with the Brazilian Blowout Treatment and your good to go.

LET’S ADD LENGTH:
If you miss your long flowing locks “hair extensions” are the perfect way to add extra length to a short style. Hair extensions are available in all length, thickness, texture and colors. Extensions are hidden easily under the top layer and may be temporarily attached with a clip or permanently glued to individual strands close to the scalp. For a natural look, extensions must match your hair color and texture. Add extra length with hair extensions when the mood or occasion calls for it.

LET’S ADD MAKEUP & ACCESSORIES:
What’s a short cropped hair style without makeup and accessories? As the face of Revlon, Halle’s meticulously groomed but never overdone understated style calls for light lips, intensely smoky eyes and sculpted cheekbones. For a spot-on look, top it off with a retro newsboy cap, chic white halter top with wrap around scarf, black distressed skinny jeans, studded high-top boots, gold loop earrings, two toned Rayban aviator sunglasses and don’t forget Halle’s signature fragrance.

NOW, LET’S COLOR IT:
For a contrasting sun kissed look Halle’s natural dark brown hair color is lighten several shades. Next, individual strands (thick and thin) are given a Golden Carmel hue with a foil weaving process. After a clear glaze seals-in the color and turns up the shine. The new growth is lightened and highlighted every six weeks. This creative hair coloring effect may cost a few extra bucks but it’s a small price to pay for a stunning color and all the attention you'll get.

Halle Berry’s liberating pixie style cut has everything you need for a time challenged life and puts you into the spot light were you belong. A Brazilian Blowout treatment gives you the best of both worlds; a smooth soft straight style whenever you wish and manageable, frizz-free healthy looking hair to boot. The tousled contoured silhouette fits like a glove and looks amazing from all points of view. Pixie bangs and soft tapered neckline with understated makeup add a stylish look that’s irresistible to men attracted to the classy, but never overdone type. Your sun kissed two toned color defines the over all shape and pushes the style bar to the max. So be prepared for heads to turn and men to stop dead in their tracks when you pass by looking "ooh-so stylish" and your girl friends to scream OMG ..you rock girl.

Famous Blonds

2010-02-02T17:48:00.001-05:00

Blonds throughout history have often been portrayed as beautiful and sexy. While peroxide was first promoted to bleach hair in the 19th century, it was the 1920s and 1950s that the first ‘blonde bombshells’ were created by Hollywood with Jean Harlow, May West and Veronica Lake. But when a young starlet, Norma Jean (Marilyn Monroe) bleach her hair the "patron saint of peroxide" was born. Dozens of dazzling Hollywood blonds from Reese Witherspoon, Nicole Kidman, Madonna, Paris Hilton, Katherine Heigl and the latest entry Lady Gaga continue to light up the silver screen with their ravishing blond locks.

The start of a new year marks the opportunity for redefining your style and what better way then with a new hair color. For years the hair fashion industry has been obsessed with blondes and is associated with glamour. Blond isn't just a hair color it's an attitude. If it were a formula I’d mix two parts blond hair, one part personality, plus two parts sexual confidence. Blond hair comes in many shades from cool to warm and is most flattering to creamy complexions although it also works well with complexions of medium warm tones. Natural blond hair is relatively rare. It can range from pale to dark golden shades and occurs in approximately 2% of the world population. Almost everyone can be a blonde. What's most important is finding the right shade to complement your skin tone.

If you have pink skin like Reese Witherspoon you can wear a light golden blond hue. Women with pale porcelain skin and green or blue eyes like Nicole Kidman make perfect strawberry blondes. Medium skin tones have the most choices. If you want a pale blonde hue and have dark brown hair a two step process (bleaching and toning) will be required. Those with medium and light brown hair can add blond highlights or lowlights with a foil weaving technique to give it a natural sun kissed or dramatic look. This dimensional effect is a great way to start and easy to keep up. If you chose to become a blond and have dark eye brows you may want to lighten them as well.

Because blond hair dye contains the small hair color molecules keeping blond in your hair becomes a challenge. Small molecules enter the hair shaft easily but also wash out of the hair easily each time you shampoo. To preserve the color using a pigmented shampoo and conditioner between touch ups will help prevent premature fading. Because there are dozens of blond hues from platinum and gold to strawberry it can be difficult to know which shade is right for you. To determine what shade would suit you best and which to avoid a visit to a professional hair colorist is well worth the time and expense. Before you make an appointment, clip a few pictures from magazines with colors you’re interested in trying and show them to the colorist….a picture is worth a thousand words!

Polaroid Hair Styling Experience

2010-01-21T16:38:00.002-05:00

To make each new clients first visit a Hair Styling Experience for 25 years I've used a Polaroid Camera to take before and after hair style pictures. This extra step makes a big impression and has helped bring new clients to the salon.

Because a hair styling make-over is a big change and happens so fast using a Polaroid camera has helped me show clients the difference their new hairstyle has made in their appearance. As a part of their introductory visit I give them the Polaroid pictures along with a studio hair styling kit. It's said a picture is a thousand words but a instant Polaroid picture speaks volumes.

I'm now using the new Polaroid's PoGo "digital camera" that lets you view and print a wallet size color picture on the spot. This bad boy is totally awesome and comes with all the "bells and whistles" you'd expect of a 21 century camera. It’s made using a Polaroid camera more fun then ever before and is affordable to use with each print costing only 30 cents. Because it’s a digital camera I can also save their make-over pictures in our salon computer. And the picture quality is amazing.

Over these many years I've also used Polaroid camera's to create artistic images of every day life that I call Pola Art. Take a peek at my Creative Polaroid Art Collection slide-show online here at the Polaroid Studio Gallery. And while your there check out the cool new Polaroid PoGo Digital Camera.

Tom Cruise Star Hairstyle

2010-01-12T16:03:00.002-05:00

Drawing inspiration from the hair style trends of our favorite stars and celebrities has become national past time. One such star hair style is Tom Cruise. As a teen star his boyish good looks and long hair style served him well. Over the years Tom has been credited with having started many popular hairstyle trends for men. His movie star good looks and stylish persona has women watching his every move.

TO GET THE LOOK: Do you think its” impossible” to have a stylish look with your thin hair? Before you through in the towel, take a hair styling lesson from Tom Cruise and watch heads turn when you cruse by with this cool look. Be forewarned, if you accept this hair styling mission be prepared to use a blow dryer and color your hair. To get the look, let’s take it one step at a time; starting with a style cut and shaping.

LET’S SHAPE IT: To get the look start with a contoured shaping with tapered sides and neckline stylishly over the ears and collar. The crown is cut short to stand up for a full look with a few love locks tumbling across the forehead. This shapely head turning-do’ gives thin hair an over all thicker look and suits most face shape, especial those with large facial features like Tom’s. With a few adjustments (tweaks) as it grows you can easily find the ideal length and shape for your style.

LET’S STYLE IT: To jump start your style, start with a dab of shaping gel or gel mousse for style support and thicker look. Just run either through damp hair and comb in place to dry au natural, or give it a quick blast with a blow dryer for a full look. For a spiky tousled look and a whole new identity, when dry, add a dab foaming pomade or shaping gel and you’ve got the look.

LET’S ADD SIDEBURNS: Nothing can reshape a face or add a dramatic look like Sideburns. They can be long, short, narrow or full. This simple addition can make large ears appear smaller or a narrow face wider and will definitely add a stylish or artsy look. Include mid length sideburns and your almost there.

LET'S ADD A TAN: What's a star hairstyle without a Hollywood tan and accessories. Having spent hours in a studio makeup chair, Tom knows how good you can look and feel with a golden tan. To avoid the risks of sun damage, many actors get their golden glow with a transparent waterproof skin bronzer for the look and feel of a natural tan. Top it off with a black turtleneck, straight legged jeans paired with a bomber jacket, Ray Ban aviator sunglasses and your good to go.

NOW, LET’S COLOR IT: Actor’s change their hair color often for the many characters the play so dying their hair is no big deal. For Tom’s hair color, a semi-permanent warm brown hue defines the shape, adds style support and washes the gray away. To keep it up the re-growth is touched up every 6 weeks. This extra step will cost a few bucks but what the hell, it’s a small price to pay for a over all thicker look and all the attention.

Your Cruise worthy do’ comes with all the "bells and whistles" you need for a stylish look. The versatile contoured silhouette with tapered neckline stylishly over the collar and a few “love locks” tumbling across the forehead adds a cool casual touch. Coloring the hair has given your fine hair an over all thicker look and washed the gray away making it nearly “impossible" to know you’ve colored your hair. So be prepared to stop all those babe’s dead in their tracks and your pal's to be green with envy when you show up looking oh-so cool with your “mission accomplished” hairstyle.

For a Tom Cruise Star Hairstyle visit George Caroll Studio Style Salon www.georgecaroll.com
see special introductory visit pricing and shine like the stars.

Famous Redheads

2010-01-04T13:58:00.003-05:00

Redheads throughout history have often been portrayed as fiery and seductive; from Queen Elizabeth I to Cleopatra (who some argue was a redhead). Sexy red hair is something Hollywood has loved from its early days. Think of Clara Bow the redheaded “It Girl”, Lucille Ball and Maureen O’Hara with their playful confident personalities and Rita Hayworth’s bombshell sexuality and you got it. Today’s dazzling redheads; Lindsay Lohan, Debra Messing, Susan Sarandon, Julia Roberts and Nicole Kidman continue to light up the silver screen with their ravishing red hair.

The start of a new year marks the opportunity for redefining your style and what better way then with a new hair color. For years the hair fashion industry has been obsessed with blonds. Make no mistake, blond hair isn't going out of style but with the start of the new decade it's time for blonds to make way for the redhead. A redhead isn't just a hair color it's an attitude. If it were a formula I’d mix two parts red hair, one part personality, plus two parts sexual confidence. It’s said that Blonds have more fun, but Redheads are never forgotten. Bette Midler (singer-actress) may have said it best, "Gentlemen may prefer blonds, but it takes a real man to tame a redhead."

Red hair comes in many shades from cool to warm and is most flattering to creamy complexions although it also works well with complexions of medium warm tones. Women with pale porcelain skin and green or blue eyes should go for natural gingers and neutral-tone coppers. Dark and olive skin tones should stick with the Burgundies and violet-based colors to flatter skin tones. Brunettes should favor the darker shades of red to match their complexion and natural hair color. Medium brown and light blonde can wear either dark or lighter shades of reds. Adding red highlights or lowlights with a foil weaving technique can achieve a natural or dramatic look. This dimensional look is eye-catching and far from ordinary for those who like to get noticed. If you chose to become a redhead lightening the brows will give it a natural look.

Red hair dye contains the smallest of hair color molecules as a result keeping red in your hair becomes a challenge. Small molecules enter the hair shaft easily but can also wash out of the hair easily each time you shampoo. To preserve the color using a pigmented shampoo and conditioner between touch ups will help prevent premature fading. Because there are dozens of ravishing red hues from strawberry and auburn to coppers it can be difficult to know which shade is right for you. To determine what shade would suit you best and which to avoid a visit to a professional hair colorist is well worth the time and expense. Before you make an appointment, clip a few pictures from magazines with colors you’re interested in trying and show them to the colorist….a picture is worth a thousand words!

The Hair Brush

2009-12-28T13:57:00.000-05:00

As long as people have had hair, they have needed some way to tame tangles and most importantly, show off their personal style. Hair brushes have been around for thousands of years, but changed dramatically in the mid 20^th century with the introduction of space age plastic and synthetic fibers. What started out as a very basic implement, the hair brush has morphed into a highly specialized grooming and styling tool. One example of just how the hair brush has evolved is the Spornette International Hair Brush Company.

The Walter Sporn Beauty Company was the first to design a manufacturing process that would implant nylon bristles into a plastic hair brush handle. Up to this time hair brushes were made with wooden or bone handles with bore bristles a labor intense time consuming process. His timing could not have been better as plastics technology was coming of age and signaled the modern era of professional American beauty products.

In 1950 Walter introduced his ultra modern (5 and 7 row) plastic handle nylon bristle brush to the professional beauty supply distributors who like beauty salons of the time were still in their infancy. Drawing on his early merchandising experience he also introduced beauty salons to retailing with an attractive point-of-purchase retail hair brush display. As a result salon sales went from selling individual brushes to dozens—literally overnight. Over the next 20 years Walter went on to introduce the “Little Wonder” a styling brush designed for back brushing and teasing and high quality cushion based brushes all at affordable price points.

By 1970’s the Water’s son, Alan Sporn fresh out of college joined the company and expanded the sales to include the over sea’s markets and soon after changed the company name to Spornette International. Like his father, Alan had an eye for all things new and foresaw the blow dry styling trend and designed a line of styling brushes to meet the demand.

Under Alan’s direction Spornette has created a number of 21 century styling brushes, combs and rollers that emitting negative ions (good stuff) for improve the condition of hair as well as styling. One example of Spornette’s creative innovations is the new cushion based “Loop Bristle Brush” designed to safely style hair extensions and wigs. Today Spornette International is considered the beauty industry’s standard for professional hair brushes and styling tools throughout the world.

If you’re thinking about trading in your old hair brush you’ll no doubt be confronted with a wide range of brushes and prices. While the top of the line styling brush are geared toward repeated use by professionals, they can be beneficial for personal use as they will no doubt last longer and give you professional results. If you’re willing to pay the price the Spornette professional styling tools are well worth the investment.

Halle Berry / Star Hair Style / How To Get The Look

2009-12-21T14:39:00.009-05:00

Drawing inspiration from the hair style trends of our favorite stars and celebrities has become a national pass time. One star whose many hair styles are eliminated by women around the globe is Hollywood super star Halle Berry. Like a chameleon, Halle changes her hairstyles and color often but it’s her chic sexy signature pixie style cut that has inspired women of all ages to trade in their long locks for this easy breezy liberating hairstyle.

TO GET THE LOOK:
Are you up for a liberating youthful looking short sassy hair do? If that's the case, Halle’s two toned hair color and short spunky coif is a perfect place to start. This head turning do’ with all the right accessories is a show stopper and youthful looking to boot. If your ready to take the plunge, let’s take it one step at a time; starting with a style cut and shaping.

LET’S SHAPE IT:
To get the look, start with contoured head hugging silhouette, feminine soft tapered neckline and "pixie" bangs for a flirty look. This fashion forward coif can be adjusted to suit most face shapes especial those with high cheek bones and slender features like Halle. If you’re having second thoughts about cutting your hair, not to worry with a few adjustments (trims) as it grows into the shape you can easily find the ideal length and shape for your personal style.

LET’S STYLE IT:
Talk about easy, this sassy do almost styles itself. To give your locks an extra boost start with a dab of styling balm, mousse or nothing at all. Just run either through damp hair and comb in place to dry au natural or give it a quick blow-dry for straight or textured effect. If your locks look a bit dry or frizz after, a dab of styling cream or spray pomade will tame it. For a dressy effect a few twists with a curling iron or once over with a flat iron and you’ve got the look.

LET STRAIGHTEN IT:
If you have curly, wavy frizzy hair like Halle Berry then chances are you sometimes would like to trade it in for straight. To make hair styling quick and easy give your hair a Brazilian Blowout Treatment, “the dream relaxing treatment” for a smooth soft straight style whenever you wish and your natural hair manageable, frizz-free and healthy looking to boot. It literally gives everyone with unruly hair a straight smooth look that last for several months and easy "wash and wear styling”. The only drawback is that it can be addictive! Tame your locks with the Brazilian Blowout Treatment and your good to go.

LET’S ADD LENGTH:
If you miss your long flowing locks “hair extensions” are the perfect way to add extra length to a short style. Hair extensions are available in all length, thickness, texture and colors. Extensions are hidden easily under the top layer and may be temporarily attached with a clip or permanently glued to individual strands close to the scalp. For a natural look, extensions must match your hair color and texture. Add extra length with hair extensions when the mood or occasion calls fora long sexy look.

LET’S ADD MAKEUP & ACCESSORIES:
What’s a short cropped hair style without makeup and accessories? As the face of Revlon, Halle’s meticulously groomed but never overdone understated glamor calls for light lips, intensely smoky eyes and sculpted cheekbones. For a spot-on look, top it off with a retro newsboy cap, chic white halter top with wrap around scarf, black distressed skinny jeans, studded high-top boots, gold loop earrings, two toned Rayban aviator sunglasses and don’t forget Halle’s signature fragrance.

NOW, LET’S COLOR IT:
For a contrasting sun kissed look Halle’s natural dark brown hair color is lighten several shades. Next, individual strands (thick and thin) are given a Golden Carmel hue with a foil weaving process. After a clear glaze seals-in the color and turns up the shine. The new growth is lightened and highlighted every six weeks. This contrasting hair coloring effect may cost a few extra bucks but it’s a small price to pay for a stunning color and all the attention you'll get.

Halle Berry’s liberating pixie style cut has everything you need for a time challenged life and puts you into the spot light were you belong. A Brazilian Blowout treatment gives you the best of both worlds; a smooth soft straight style whenever you wish and manageable, frizz-free healthy looking hair to boot. The tousled contoured silhouette fits like a glove and looks amazing from all points of view. The Pixie bangs and soft tapered neckline with understated makeup add a stylish look that’s irresistible to men attracted to the classy, but never overdone type. Your sun kissed two toned color defines the over all shape and pushes the style bar to the max. So be prepared for heads to turn and men to stop dead in their tracks when you pass by looking "ooh-so stylish" and your girl friends to scream OMG ..you rock girl.

Brazilian Blowout Treatment

2009-12-11T18:32:00.003-05:00

As long as people have had hair, they have needed some way to tame tangles and most importantly, show off their personal style. For centuries, hot irons and combs have been used to straighten unruly waves, curls and tame frizzy hair. In recent years the quest for straight smooth hair has moved from the simple mechanics of ironing to chemical relaxing and, most recently, to exotic thermal hybrids. Leading the way is the Brazilian Blowout Treatment, the dream hair relaxing treatment for curly-wavy girls and daily flat-ironers and the Hollywood beauty secret for smooth, frizz-free sexy hairstyles.

If you have curly, wavy frizzy hair, then chances are you sometimes would like to trade it in for straight. Even though curls and waves are always in fashion, at times they can be unruly and time-consuming to style. With the new Brazilian Blowout Treatment you can have the best of both worlds; a smooth soft straight style whenever you wish and make your natural hair manageable, frizz-free and healthy looking to boot. One of the best things about Brazilian Blowout Treatment is that it fades away at about the same pace as your hair grows in, so the hair slowly returns to your natural texture. It literally gives everyone a manageable "frizz-free wash and wear styling" and a smooth straight look" in no time at all. The only drawback is that it can be addictive!

Brazilian Blowout is a break-through (semi-permanent) thermal (heat activated) relaxing process that doesn't completely straighten the hair so the hair retains plenty of its natural volume (body) and lively look. Through the use of a proprietary Keratin Protein formula, (the protein that hair is made of) it also improves the condition of the hair by creating a protective keratin protein layer around each hair shaft to eliminate frizz and smooth the cuticle for a radiant shine. Unlike permanent relaxing solutions the Brazilian Blowout treatment is “formaldehyde – free” and safe for colored, highlighted, and even bleached hair. In fact, the porosity created by prior chemical services helps the keratin protein treatment’s bonding process repair surface damage for a smooth radiant finish.

The Brazilian Blowout solution is carefully applied to clean towel dried hair from root to tip and blown dry as straight as possible. After each strand is then straightened up to 5 times with a 450-degree flat iron thus infusing the protective keratin solution deep into the surface and repairs surface damage. Once complete, the hair is rinsed (not shampooed), towel-dried and a Brazilian Masque is applied for 60 seconds. Unlike many similar thermal relaxing treatments, the Brazilian Blowout can be adjusted to leave the hair with a “soft open curl, lose manageable wave or totally straight” and washed and styled right away (instead of waiting several days). The entire process takes 90 minutes and lasts for up to 12 weeks. The price for an average head of hair, by an experienced certified stylist, will cost between $150 and $350 depending on the length.

If you’re looking for away to tame those fizzy locks or dreamed of having “soft open bouncy curls, lose flowing manageable waves or a smooth frizz-free straight look” that almost styles itself, a “professional semi-permanent thermal relaxing treatment” is well worth the price. “The Brazilian Blowout Treatment” may be called a (treatment) but keep in mind it’s the “hair stylist” that’s delivers the results. ” When it comes to hair relaxing treatments, application is everything! For a certified hair stylist & more details visit: www.brazilianblowout.com

Lady Gaga / Shock Rocker Hair Styles

2009-12-03T17:02:00.011-05:00

Drawing inspiration from the hair style trends of our favorite stars and celebrities has become a national past time. One star whose hairstyle is emulated by young girls around the globe is Lady Gaga, the diva of style, glitz, and glamour. Her shock-rocker coiffure’s, over the top makeup and pop music star image is irresistible to those dudes that are into the “wild thing” and quite the catch for guys attracted to the "creative types".

TO GET THE LOOK: Are you ready for a totally new high impact image? If that's the case, take a fashion lesson from Lady Gaga and reinvent yourself with a totally new look. Her provocative face framing head-turning hairdo’s and platinum blonde hair color is worthy of paparazzi-like attention and lets everyone know your the a new (It Girl) in town. Lady Gaga's style isn't for the faint of heart but if you’re up for it, let’s take it one step at a time; starting with a style cut and shaping.

LET’S SHAPE IT: To get the look, start with a shoulder length bob and rounded blunt brow brushing bangs. This classic style is the ideal length for adding extra length with "hair extensions" and suits most face shapes, especially those with angular features like Lady Gaga. With a few adjustments (trims), as it grows you can find the ideal length and shape for your style.

LET’S STYLE IT: To put your style in motion start with a dab of your favorite styling mousse or spray gel for style support. Comb either through damp hair and give it a quick blow dry turning the ends up or under with your round brush. To push the style bar up a notch, a few twists with a curling iron and a dab of hair polish, and you’ve got Lady Gaga’s pop star style!

LET’S ADD LENGTH: If you’ve dreamed of having a sexy long hair style like Lady Gaga and can’t wait for it to grow out, “hair extensions” are the perfect way to add extra length to your style. Hair extensions are available in all length, thickness, texture and colors. Extensions are hidden under the top layer and may be temporarily attached with a clip or glued to individual strands close to the scalp. For a long sexy style add extra length with hair extensions and make your fantasy a reality.

LET’S ADD MAKE UP & ACCESSORIES: What’s a "fashionista’ hair style" without makeup and accessories? For "maximum impact" opt for full strips of false lashes (do not trim them; the more fluttery, the better) and achieve intense volume with a mascara in jet black, applied in several coats. You can also try colored or glittered lashes for maximum drama. Black liquid liner is a must and you'll want to layer it: set liquid liner with black powder eye shadow to recreate all the depth and drama Lady Gaga is know for. Top it off with a Minnie Mouse style hair bow, paired with neon green leotard, glossy PVC pants with large vantage sunglasses, Polaroid Pogo instant digital camera and you’ve got the look.

NOW, LET’S COLOR IT: Before you try bleaching your hair like Lady Gaga's head to a wig store and try on some blunt platinum blonde wigs. Lady Gaga’s brunette hair color is lightened with powder or cream bleach followed with a platinum blonde toner. The new growth must be lightened and toned every four to six weeks. This high fashion color will cost a few extra bucks but is a small price to pay for a stunning color and all the attention you'll get.

Lady Gaga’s style comes with all the bells and whistles to put you in the spot light. The blunt peek-a-boo bangs with Minnie Mouse style hair bow and stunning platinum blonde hair color is worthy of paparazzi-like attention. So be prepared to stop those dudes dead in their tracks when you pass by and your girl friends to scream OMG….. You rock girl !

Hair Conditioners and Treaments

2009-11-30T17:07:00.007-05:00

As long as people have had hair, they have needed some way to tame tangles and most importantly, show off their personal style. For centuries, natural oils, wax, honey and plant extracts of all types have been used to improve the appearance of hair but often left it with a oily greasy appearance. By the mid 20th Century hair conditioners changed dramatically with advancements in cosmetic chemistry. What started out as a very basic grooming aid, the hair conditioner has morphed into a highly specialized hair care treatment.

A conditioner basically tightens the hairs cuticle (surface layer), which in turn adds luster and allows each individual strand of hair to remain separate from others for volume (body) and manageability. Conditioners work much like a fabric softener does for clothing. Beauty experts recommend using a hair conditioner following a shampoo as it can strengthen and improve the texture, replenish moisture, renew elasticity, encourage healthy growth and adds body giving hair a clean, shinny and over all healthy appearance.

Although they have many things in common, the chemistry of hair conditioner is an “art and science” making each formula unique. Modern hair conditioners have reached a pinnacle of performance and specificity in resent years. There are now countless conditioners and hair treatments some with rare all natural or even nano-sized ingredients to magically transform your hair into a thing of beauty. Hair conditioner ingredients are selected carefully in order to secure the best possible result using a combination of chemical substances, (micro-protein, silicone, fatty alcohols, polymers, quaternary ammonium compounds) and at times natural ingredients. Hair conditioner ingredients and the amount will vary depending on the hair type and its condition.

With a variety of hair conditioners available in the market, each promising special benefit and at times even a combination of benefits, choosing the right one can be dounting. Conditioners are subdivided into the following categories: reconstructors, moisturizers, acidifiers, thermal protectors, detanglers and glossers. If you’re shopping around for a new hair conditioner you’ll no doubt be confronted with a wide range of choices and prices. If you’re looking for professional results and are willing to pay a little extra you can’t go wrong by “asking your hair stylist” to select the perfect conditioner for your hair. After all who knows your hair better then a hair stylist?

Kalology / The Study Of Beauty

2009-11-24T16:52:00.008-05:00

Kalology is the study of “psychological aspects of beauty”, especially with the components as they relate to appearance. The subject of aesthetics and how it relates to beauty was introduced by Plato and enlarged upon by Aristotle. Aesthetics attempts to explain the human reaction to beauty, and whether this reaction is objective or subjective; for instance, whether beauty is a universal concept, or whether environment affects a person's taste and what is considered beautiful.

Kalology is the corner stone of both Cosmetology and Dermatology and the line between both has become blurred in recent years with the introduction of Medi-Spa’s. A medical spa is a hybrid between a medical clinic and salon day spa that operates under the supervision of medical doctor. Medical spas offer laser hair removal, microdermabrasion, photofacials, injectables like Botox, chemical peels and medical grade skin care treatments and products. Medical spas tend to have a more clinical atmosphere than salon day spas.

Leading the way in the medical approach is Kalologie a California skin care clinic founded in 2002 by Tracy Brennan a former advertising executive and model. Tracy grew interested in skin care largely as a result of skin conditions she attributed to hormonal imbalances and stress. Drawing on here advertising expertise she named her skin care concept Kalologie, which just happens to rhymes with dermatology and “kallos,” the Greek word for beauty, and “ology,” meaning “to study.” Each Kalologie Skin Care Clinic is owned and operated by doctors only and staffed with highly trained skin care practitioners to formulate a plan that’s based on each individual’s skin care objectives and deliver real results

Whether combating the signs of aging, struggling with the effects of acne, or just searching for a healthier-looking complexion, Kalologie offers its own cosmeceutical-grade skin care products and personalized treatment solutions to address the unique challenges of each individual’s skin. With the growing interest in non-surgical medical procedures and a youth orientated culture it’s no surprise that in a few short years, Kalologie Skincare Clinics have been rated one of the top 10 skin care clinics in America.

Not to be left out many salon day spas are now including a dermatologist on staff. This truly is a trend to watch as both Cosmetology and Dermatology join hands in the study of beauty.

Hot Rollers / Instant Hair Styles

2009-11-18T15:09:00.007-05:00

As long as people have had hair, they have needed some way to tame tangles and most importantly, show off their personal style. Styling tools used for curling hair have been around for thousands of years but changed dramatically in the mid 20th century with the introduction of electricity, space age plastic and ceramic material. What started out as a very basic implement, the hair roller has morphed into a highly specialized styling tool. One example is the new Ionic / Ceramic “self warming” Hot Rollers.

The early wire and magnet plastic rollers were used to curl wet hair but took up to a half an hour to dry under a bonnet hair dryer. The electric self warming hot rollers brought ease and convenience to hair curling and shortened the styling time dramatically. Today’s instant heat hair curlers come in a verity shapes and sizes making it possible to create loose tumbling waves, tousled curls or smooth straight styles with added bounce and volume in minutes.

There are a number of ways to vary the style with Hot Rollers and Steam Curlers. For example, for long thin hair the rollers can be placed vertically to create corkscrew curls, while extremely large rollers can be used horizontally to create a soft wave. Or used in graduated sizes (medium & small) for a more natural look, as uniform curls can look somewhat artificial. You can also change the effects by brushing or blow drying the hair immediately after taking them out. Because face framing waves and curls soften facial features and are characteristic of youth, femininity; sensuality and innocence, hot curlers are one of my favorite go to styling tools.

There are a variety of heated hair curlers (dry and steam) on the market today and leading the way is the Babyliss Professional Ionic / Ceramic Hot Rollers. This streamlined beauty comes with all the “bell’s and whistles” you’d expect in the 21st century. 30 instant heat ceramic rollers (8 jumbo, 8 large, 8 med. and 6 small) generate far infrared heat to eliminate damaging hot spots and provides maximum heat transfer. Dual ionic ports emit millions of negative ions (good stuff) to add shine and eliminate frizz. Space saving folding arm allows for vertical positioning and easy use. Simultaneously, the easy-glide ceramic surface and far-infrared heat preserves moisture inside the hair shaft for a super shine and further speed styling time. And if time is money, then this bad boy says….ca ching!

If you’re shopping around for a new hot roller hair setter you’ll no doubt be confronted with a wide range of choices and prices. From inexpensive drug store brands made in China that cost ($20-$40) to the top of the line professional salon brands ($75 - $100+). While these are geared toward repeated use by professionals, they can be beneficial for personal use as they will no doubt last longer and give you professional results. If you’re willing to pay the price the Babyliss Professional Ionic / Ceramic Instant Hair Setter is well worth the investment.

The Chanel Style

2009-11-12T13:01:00.004-05:00

Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel modernist philosophy, mens-wear-inspired fashions, and pursuit of simplicity planted the first seeds of female emancipation in the early 20th century. In 1920, Chanel took what was considered poor fabrics like “Jersey” and introduced women’s sportswear along with her signature fragrance, Chanel No. 5, the first perfume to have a designer's name attached to it. Her timing could not have been better. The Chanel style was the perfect look for the roaring 20’s flappers, a "new breed" of self-confident young women that challenged the established concept of socially acceptable behavior.

Chanel’s own lifestyle fueled her ideas of how modern women everywhere should look, act and dress. She embodied everything modern and chic with her signature bobbed hair, faux pearls and timeless style. Chanel not only invented the tailored jacket with slacks and the LBD (little black dress), but catapulted the color black into the realm of being indispensably chic. As for all the flashy accessories (Bling) you can thank Coco for making costume jewelry fashionable.

Nine decades later her vision of the contemporary women remains somehow modern, timelessly elegant and irrepressibly chic. The women that uttered the quote, “Fashion Passes, Style Remains” and “Simplicity is the keynote of all true Elegance,” must’ve known that her sense of style would influence women’s fashion to this very day. Today’s fashion designers and hair stylists owe much of their working knowledge to the tiny French women with a stiff upper lip and an extraordinary sense of style.

Hydrogen Powered Hair Care

2009-11-02T18:11:00.011-05:00

The term "pH" originates from the French term 'pouvoir hydrogen' (or Hydrogen Power) and has since been expressed as "parts of hydrogen". The symbol “pH” refers to the amount of hydrogen ions found in a substance and determines the acidity or alkalinity. As an example of the effects of (pH / parts of Hydrogen), distilled water (H2O) which has a pH neutral (7.0) can swell the hair by as much as 20 percent.

Hair is made of: Carbon, Oxygen, Hydrogen, Nitrogen and Sulfur. The Hydrogen bonds in the hair are responsible for approximately 35% of the strength and 50% of the hair's elasticity (some would argue up to 99.9% of the hair’s elasticity). It’s the hydrogen bonds which allow us to change the shape of the hair temporarily with the aid of water (H2O). Hair has a normal pH level of between 4.5 - 5.5 and acidic or alkaline solutions can "raise or lower the pH level" of the hair causing physical changes. It’s this amazing feature that makes hair styling possible.

High quality shampoo’s with a pH (5.5-6.5) are designed to maintain the normal elasticity while Conditioners and Treatments with a pH (3.5) contract the hair shaft, smoothing its surface and lock in moisture. Clarifying shampoos with higher pH level (6.5-7.5) swell the hair shaft and allow the surfactants to remove heavy oil, wax and styling sprays.

Styling Aids with enhanced conditioning features and a low pH level insure a smooth surface and shine. Hair Relaxers and Permanent Wave solutions are formulated with a high pH level to soften the hair and weaken the Hydrogen and Sulfur bonds to reform or remove curl. In addition, Hydrogen Peroxide with a (high pH) swells the hair to allow color penetration.

There are many elements that make up 21st century professional hair care products and “hydrogen powered” pH balanced formula’s are no doubt one of their most important features. You’ll get more miles out of your style with “hydrogen powered” salon hair care products.

Hair Flex Studio Styling Brush

2009-10-25T13:49:00.010-04:00

As long as people have had hair, they have needed some way to tame tangles and most importantly, show off their personal style. Hair brushes have been around for thousands of years, but changed dramatically in the mid 20th century with the introduction of space age plastic, synthetic fibers and blow dry styling. What started out as a very basic implement, the hair brush has morphed into a highly specialized styling tool. One example is the Hair Flex Studio Styling Brush.

While working in my hair styling studio and on motion picture sets I found the need to use several types of styling brushes to create a finished hair style. I thought why not design one hair styling brush that could do all most everything. Drawing inspiration from the original “five fingered comb” (the hands and fingers), I then set out to design a flexible styling brush that combined “three basic hair brushes with a built-in comb” and functioned like our hand and fingers. With technology being what it is today, I discovered a new heat resistant flexible “rubber-like” material used in the aerospace industry that made the design and functions required possible.

It combines a “paddle brush, shaping brush, straightening and waving brush” with a "built-in comb" and "air flow net" to make blow-dry styling safe, quick and easy. And if time is money, then this versatile bad boy says….ca ching!

As you can image it’s my favorite styling brush and comes with all the “bell’s and whistles” you’d expect of a styling brush in the 21st century. The ultra light slim, "pro-style handle" is ergonomically designed to "reduce wrist strain". Simply squeeze the handle to “lift for volume, pull to straighten, crimp and wave, flip hair up or under, scrunch and spike, defuse and detangle". Its provides unlimited hair styling options making the Hair Flex Studio Styling Brush "the world’s most versatile hair brush". To see a demonstration visit http://www.hairflex.com/

The Hot Air "Round" Hair Styling Brush

2009-10-21T17:23:00.009-04:00

As long as people have had hair, they have needed some way to tame tangles and most importantly, show off their personal style. Hair brushes have been around for thousands of years, but changed dramatically in the mid 20th century with the introduction of space age plastic and synthetic fibers. What started out as a very basic implement, the hair brush has morphed into a highly specialized styling tool. One example is the “hot air round styling brush".

Blow dry hair styling can be a time-consuming and awkward process involving holding a hair dryer in one hand and styling brush in the other. The hot air round styling brush combines a hair dryer and round styling brush making it easy to handle and shortens the drying time without damaging the hair. The effects are the same as using a round brush and blow dryer, though not nearly as challenging. Hot air blows out from the center of the round brush barrel, drying and styling your hair at the same time. Independent heat and speed settings with 1500 watts of styling power and round brush attachments adjusts for any hair length providing endless styling options.

The hot air round brush is one of my favorite hair styling tools! The ultra light slim, pro-style handle is ergonomically designed to reduce wrist strain. This streamlined beauty comes with all the “bell’s and whistles” you’d expect in the 21st century. The Tourmaline crystals inside the dryer’s round barrel send out negative ions (good stuff) to seal the hairs surface layer and control frizz. Simultaneously, the ceramic far-infrared heat preserves moisture inside the hair shaft for a super shine. The air flow is increased by 40% while the ionic generator breaks up water molecules to further speed drying time. And if time is money, then this bad boy says….ca ching!

While the top of the line hot air styling brush is geared toward repeated use by professionals, they can be beneficial for personal use as they will no doubt last longer and give you professional results. If you’re willing to pay a few extra dollars a professional hot air round styling brush is well worth the investment.

Hairspray

2009-10-14T17:19:00.005-04:00

People have used natural compounds such as (clays, wax, tree sap, sugar, starch and gums) to hold their hair in place since antiquity. The early 20th century hair fixatives used a resin-like substance made of alcohol and shellac was dispensed from an atomizer bottle. This proved unsatisfactory because the nozzle would clog, soaking the hair making it stiff and almost impossible to remove. The lacquer in the spray was so sticky that the floors of beauty salons became quite tacky. By 1950 a clog free value was designed for dispensing gases under pressure and the first aerosol hairspray was born.

In 1950, Helene Curtis became the first to use the generic term "hairspray" for its newly developed aerosol product called Spray Net. By the end of the decade, aerosol hair sprays had inspired the creation of hairstyles that would have been impossible without them. The Beehive and Bouffant hairstyles involved teasing the hair on top of the head to keep its full and puffy looking. Hairdressers spent hours creating these towering styles and used tons of hairspray to keep it rigid and in place for a week or more. As a result hairstyles and hairspray sales soared.

By the late 1960s and 1970s the arrival of much more natural hairstyles saw hair spray sales dropped as stiff bouffant styles fall from fashion. At the same time, environmentalists began to discover that chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) used in aerosol hair sprays were damaging the environment. This did not stop the beauty manufacturers, which quickly found alternative approach. In 1977, Alberto VO5 Hair Spray became the first nationally advertised premium brand to introduce an aerosol free of CFC.

The popularity of hair spray revived again in the 1990s with the popularity of structured and textured hairstyles and has remained a part of many women's hair styling routine through the twenty-first century. In the last 50 years researchers have improved both the quality of hairspray ingredients and the aerosol packaging used to deliver them. Modern hairsprays have come a long way since the day of rigid, untouchable hairstyles. Today hairsprays deliver a light even spray that leaves no build-up, stickiness or weight. They are fast drying, and create an instant flexible hold to complement today’s hairstyles. Aerosol hairsprays have now become a delivery system for a wide variety of styling products (spray gel, spray wax, spray pomade) and account for 50% of all personal care sales. It appears that with all its ups and downs hairspray is "hair" to stay.

Hollywood Style Icons / Making Waves

2009-10-12T18:51:00.003-04:00

A modern version of the 1940’s fashions has been showing up on the red carpet and all over the runways. Even the style bibles (fashion magazines) seem to have jumped on the band wagon. All are packed to the brim with models sporting equally beautiful cascading waves. When it comes to couture, the 40’s glamour style seems to be favored by Chloe, Gucci, Valentino and many others. The ultra feminine hairstyles with soft flowing waves were made popular by Hollywood style icons Veronica Lake, Lauren Becall, Reta Hayworth and Jane Russell.

Spear-heading the trend are current cinema beauties Keira Knightley, Scarlett Johansson, Amanda Yesfried, Nicole Kidman, Reese Witherspoon, Megan Fox and Madonna. It’s not a surprise that these classic hairstyles are making a come back as face framing waves soften aging facial features and suit most face shapes. A quick blow dry and a few twists around a styling iron or a hand full of hot rollers give this classic a contemporary look. Long hairstyles with face framing waves have always been characteristic of youth, and send a message to men of femininity; sensuality and innocence making these up-dated forties styles a trend to watch.

The Ponytail / World's First Hair Style

2009-10-06T16:32:00.003-04:00

The statuique Greek Goddress with her high flying Ponytail and sophistacated Chinon reminds us of the staying power of this simple classic hairstyle. The reason for its longevity is that the vast majority of women (75%) prefer wearing long hair and this simple up-do is suitable for any age, face shape and hair texture. The ponytail style is often the hairstyle of choice for many time challenged celebrities and fans alike. Stars such as Sarah Jessica Parker, Scarlett Johansson, Kate Beckinsale, Angelina Jolie, and many more have been seen with this classic hairstyle in one form or another on the red carpet in recent years.

Its such a classic style that it never grows old and its versatility is endless. As a hairdresser, I love the fact that Ponytail styles can be messy, sexy, creative, sleek, knotted, frizzy, braided, rockin, casual, romantic, sporty, or even seductive looking. You might say it’s the “work horse” of all hairstyles thus it has been appropreately named “The Ponytail”. It’s a great look for anyone who’s short on time and when arranged for a dressy look is suitable for any occasion. If you’re looking for an easy any time hairstyle that’s always fashionable and never out of style, pull your hair back (high or low) and your good to go.

Star Hair Style / Jay Leno / How To Get The Look

2009-10-01T16:30:00.009-04:00

Drawing inspiration from the hair style trends of our favorite stars and celebrities has become a national past time. One such star hair style is Hollywood talk show host Jay Leno. His dapper tousled hair style and boyish good looks are irresistible to women attracted to the creative types and quiet the catch for those babes looking for a few giggles.

HOW TO GET THE LOOK: Do you sometimes get a feeling your hair style and gray hair is making you look passé? Before you throw in the towel, take a styling lesson from Jay Leno and watch heads turn when you stroll by looking "dapper and oh so stylish” in a grown up way. To get the look, let’s take it one step at a time; starting with a style cut and shaping.

LET’S SHAPE IT: To get the look start with a contoured silhouette for volume with mid length sideburns and taper neckline stylishly at or over the collar. For those looking for a "no fuzz finger combed style this puppy fill the bill and almost styles itself. With a few adjustments (tweaks) as it grows you can find the ideal length and shape for your style.

LET’S STYLE IT: Start with a dab of shaping gel or nothing at all. Just run either through damp hair and comb in place to dry au natural or give it a quick once over with a blow dryer for a full look. After, polish it off with a dab of styling cream or natural hold hair spray and your good to go.

LET’S ADD SIDEBURNS: Nothing can reshape a face or add a dramatic look like facial hair. Sideburns for example can be full, close, long, short or narrow. This simple addition can make large ears appear smaller or a narrow faces wider and definitely add a stylish or artsy look. Include tapered mid length sideburns and you’ve got the look.

NOW, LETS COLOR IT: If you’re not up for coloring your hair but want to do something about the gray a temporary “foaming color rinse” used twice a week following a shampoo will give it a ”brilliant platinum" hue. This extra step is well worth the time for a "foxy look" and all the extra attention you'll get.

Jay Leno’s dapper style cut is both casual and buttoned down at the same time making it ready for any occasion. The finger combed contoured silhouette fits the shape of your head perfectly and looks great from all points of view. The color rinse has given your dull lifeless gray hair color a brilliant foxy snow white hue”. Head will turn and your pal's will be green with envy when they see the babes making a fuss over you and your new look.

Disclaimer: the star image here is solely for entertainment. Should the star image featured here wish it to be removed please let me know and it will be removed.

The Bobbed Style Cut / Simple, Classic Timeless

2009-09-28T18:34:00.006-04:00

In the 1920s and 1930s American fashion began to assert itself and soon gained world recognition. Hollywood was instrumental in providing the world with the stage to show case the latest looks for concepts of dressing with feminine allure and glamour. Women of all ages demanded the same exciting new hair fashions and beauty products as the film icons and stars wore and so “hair stylists and beauty products” became important in their own right.

You may not know the name but must have seen the picture. Louise Brooks was the famous flapper of her era. She was a model as well as an actress and frequently appeared in advertisements. Louise bore no resemblance to anything vaguely Edwardian and embodied the spirit of the Jazz Age. Her distinctive crisp modern black bob hair style often worn with bangs and makeup was her trademark. The flapper era worshipped young people and Louise Brooks was the Agyness Dyan of her day with her signature image of a modern women.

This simple avant-garde hairstyle with an edgy touch (fringe and color) offers young girls a modern trendy look as much today as in the past. The classic bob (short or long) is adaptable to all hair types, easy to wear and looks crisp and modern, making the jump from long to short as simple as “snip, snip, snip”. With a few adjustments (trims) its easy to find the ideal length and shape for your style. For all those looking to trade in their long "girlish locks" for a new sophisticated, chic trendy hairstyle, a Classic Bob is the perfect place to start.

Blow Dry Styling / Evolution Of Hair Dryers

2009-09-28T01:25:00.008-04:00

When Thomas Edison invented electricity the rush to create new ways use this amazing new power was launched. Evolution which is characteristic of human civilization has brought about significant improvements in the way we live and how we style our hair. The modern day blow dryer has come a long way from its humble beginnings. There is no denying the fact that the invention of the hair dryer was a major step in the evolution of the professional beauty industry.

Taking a glance back into the history of hair dryers we can see that the hair dryer was invented in the late 19th century by a French hairdresser. For the next 50 years bonnet hair dryers would become standard beauty salon equipment. The first hand held hair dryer made of heavy steel and wood handle weighed over 2 lb and produced 100 watts of heat. By the 1960s, a space age plastic pestle-grip blow dryer with 1500 watts of power was poised to change the look of hair fashions for both women and men and the professional beauty industry.

To touch on the definition and use of this pestle griped wonder, it is sufficient to say that the blow dryer is a device used to dry “damp or wet hair” by blowing hot air over it. With the aid of a styling brush the damp hair can be transformed into a desirable shape and style. It must be noted that the hair fibers natural shape is attributed to its internal hydrogen bonds, which can be temporarily altered with the aid of heat and traction.

It would take an English hairdresser (guess who) to introduce a shapely geometric hair cut styled with a blow dryer to replace the roller set bouffant lacquered hair fashions of the time. What had taken an hour to create could now be achieve in minutes with a style cut and blow dryer. This was followed by the “dry look” for men and the blow dryer became the must have new styling tool.

Today’s modern blow dryers are a streamlined thing of beauty with all the “bell’s and whistles” you’d expect in the 21st century. With the addition of Tourmaline crystals and Nano-ceramic ionic coatings and a high-velocity motor with 1875 watts of drying power this bad boy can handle any type of hair in no time at all. The Tourmaline crystals inside the dryer’s barrel send out negative ions (good stuff) to seal the hairs surface layer and control frizz. Simultaneously, the ceramic far-infrared heat preserves moisture inside the hair shaft for a super shine. The air flow is increased by 40% while the ionic generator breaks up water molecules to further speed drying time. And if time is money, then this bad boy says….ca ching!

If you’re shopping around for a new hair dryer or thinking about trading in your “old clunker” you’ll no doubt be confronted with a wide range of choices and prices. From inexpensive conventional hair dryers that cost ($20-$40) to the top of the line professional dryers ($75 - $200+). While these are geared toward repeated use by professionals, they can be beneficial for personal use as they will no doubt last longer with professional results. If you are willing to pay the price for a professional dryer the CHI Pro Styling Dryer made in the USA is well worth the investment.

Magic Bubbles / Evolution Of Shampoo

2009-09-24T22:24:00.015-04:00

The origins of personal cleanliness and the products designed to achieve it dates back to ancient times. However, it would take centuries of innovations in modern science to truly understand the composition of hair and soil in order to develop a shampoo to beautify hair. By the 20th century personal care products formulated specifically for shampooing of the hair were poised for a breakthrough.

An article published in the New York Times in May 1908 outlined a number of “simple rules” for “How to Shampoo the Hair” to give it a soft and glossy appearance and texture. It should be noted that many “beauticians” now recommended shampooing the hair “as often as every two weeks,” instead of once a month to remove the gradual build up of soils both natural and environment. And that washing the hair was now safe because new improvements in hair shampoos were just emerging. With this new understanding of “hair hygiene” and women trading in their long locks for the modern bobbed hairstyles a shampoo industry was born.

In Europe a Berlin chemist Hans Schwarzkopf (does that name ring a bell), opened a drugstore with a special section dedicated to creating new products for the care of hair. From the world’s first liquid non-alkaline shampoo in 1933 the Schwarzkopf Institute for Hair Hygiene has remained a leader in hair product innovations for the professional hairdressing industry.

As the saying goes; if you are thinking of a solution to a problem you can bet someone else is also. Indeed, at the same time Dr. John Breck also a chemist introduced the first pH-balanced shampoos to America and hired an illustrator to create pastel portraits of what was to become know as the “Breck Girls.” The portraits mirrored the hair fashions of the time and the campaign would become one of the longest running in American history reaching its peak by the 1960s.

It would take a hairdresser with a background in chemistry to point out that the hair is made of “protein” and would respond well if treated with protein and modern shampoos took a leap forward. In the late1960’s Jerry Redding teamed up with Hollywood starlet “Paula Kent” to introduce the first organic Ph Balanced protein shampoo and protein treatments sold exclusively through beauty salons under the name Redken Laboratories. Besides manufacturing the first protein hair care products Redken also introduced the concept of “salon retailing” which was considered un-professional at this time. This opened the door for dozens of new shampoos each laced with every type of additive imaginable and a multi-billion dollar professional beauty industry was born.

Although they have many things in common, the chemistry of shampoo is an “art and science” making each shampoo formula unique. The innovations in shampoo in the past one hundred years are due to the concern for hair hygiene and the development of “surface-active cleansing agents called surfactants" designed to break down and distribute healthy natural oils and improve the texture while washing away contaminants.

Shampoo has been formulated and marketed to treat specific types of hair since the mid 20th century, but modern shampoos have reached a pinnacle of performance and specificity in resent years. There are now countless shampoos some with rare or even nano-sized ingredients to magically transform your hair into a thing of beauty. If you want to look like a star or celebrity and feel you’re worth it, L’Oreal has you covered. For the Fashionista’s set, dozen’s of fashion designers and celebrity hair stylists have designed a special shampoo to give you the look. However, if you’re looking for professional results you can’t go wrong by “asking your hair stylist” to select the perfect shampoo for your hair. After all who knows your hair better then a hair stylist?