Fort Myers Stylist Tutorial on How to use Hot Rollers/Hot Curlers!

So which is it "hot curlers" or "hot rollers?"  I know I am guilty of interchanging both terms, but I'm curious as to which is most widely used.  Does it really matter?  No!  What matters is how fabulous your hair will look after you use them.  You say tomato, I say tamato!

Ok, enough with the words, Erin!

I really love using hot rollers/curlers. I mastered the use of them early in my high school years and never looked back. So much so, that the thought of using a curling iron was crazy to me (I didn't learn to use one of those babies until I was a professional styist). Anyway, I found that knowing how to use both is a good thing because they actually yield such different results.
I love using a curling iron when I have some extra time on my hands and when I want more defined, deliberate, "vertical" looking curls.  When I only have about five to ten minutes to actually style my hair, I go with hot curlers.  I can get these babies in my hair in five minutes, do my makeup, and finish getting ready while they "set" or cool down.  I just love them!  Why?  The result!   Beautiful, soft curls that last all day. To see exactly how I use them and get some helpful tips on how to get the best results, check out my tutorial below.

Do Gentlemen REALLY Prefer Blondes?

It’s a new year, and that means a new beginning.  Judging from the conversations I’ve been having, a lot of us ended relationships in 2011.  We all have our resolutions, which probably include getting into shape, quitting smoking, and learning what we had to learn so that we can move forward in life.  But as we prepare to be our best, and perhaps re-enter the unfamiliar dating world, could our hair color be talking about us “behind our backs”?  Are you aware of what your hair is “saying” to men? 

An interesting article written in Marie Claire chronicles the author’s transition from fiery “Lucille-ball” red head, to blonde, and finally to brunette.  Only her hair color changed, for she was adamant about keeping her length.    She asked her male friend for his perspective on each look.

When her hair was bright red, the male friend told her that he realized it was some kind of personal fashion statement for her, but most men considered it flashy and intimidating.  As a blonde, he still found her intimidating because he thought she looked more aggressive and icy.  When the author became brunette, her male friend told her she looked “understated” and “down to earth”.  The author found that she received more compliments on her eye color and was flirted with more.  She loved the results so much, she decided to keep it!

The personal experiment by the author in Marie Claire is actually backed up by scientific studies.  Numerous studies have shown that men prefer long, thick brown hair.  In fact, a study of the world’s wealthiest men revealed that 62% of them had wives with brown hair, followed by only 22% blonde. 

Interesting….  But why?

The best explanation to this came from the male friend in the Marie Claire article.  He basically stated that blonde equals fantasy and brunette equals closer to nature, more attainable.  Another guy in the article said, “I date mostly brunettes, but notice blondes more.  They’re just brighter somehow.” 

Some stereo types associated with hair color may explain further.  Blondes are perceived as flirtatious and fun loving, while brunettes are type-cast as reserved and classy.  I’ve also heard it said that the boys want to date the blondes, but bring the brunettes home to mom. 

So, there you have it.  The answer is NO.  Gentlemen do NOT prefer blondes.  They may notice them more, but they prefer dark hair.  So, ladies, if you’re considering changing your image in 2012, keep this information in the back of your mind.  That way, your hair color will no longer be “talking behind your back”.  It will be saying exactly what you want it to.

Professional Salon Blow Dryers vs. Consumer Blow Dryers:

"I had cheated on my industry!"  At least, that was my initial reaction. On a trip to California, I had forgotten my professional blow dryer. I was stuck across the country, miles from home, without my most beloved tool. With sopping wet locks, I stood and stared at the hotel Conair blow dryer. I had no other option but to embark upon a journey that I swore I'd never take. I took a deep breath and put my faith into the Conair!

During the fifty minutes it took me to style my hair, the question hit me like a ton of bricks. What really does make this Conair dryer different than my professional dryer? I had honestly never taken the time to understand, let alone test a professional dryer. As I finished the last section of hair, I realized that it took me double the time to dry,  I looked like I just flipped my head over and didn’t use a brush, and my arms felt as if I just did an hour arm workout! I was officially on a mission to save everyone from the wrath of the consumer blow dryer.

I researched online, studied the packaging of each dryer and contacted representatives from each company to help me understand what makes a good dryer, a good dryer. The information that I found proved to be in line with my experience.

• Professional dryers are constructed to be more efficient and last much longer. The best dryer motors are made in Italy. If the motor is not comparable, then it’s pretty much incomparable all together. A professional dryer motor will always trump the consumer dryer motor. A rough estimate would be that a professional dryer will last through approximately 1000 blow drys.* If you styled your hair every other day, this would amount to 5 years of blow dryer life!

   

  ***Keep in mind this is only an estimate and we do not guarantee the total life span of any blow dryer, professional or consumer.

 

• On average, a consumer blow dryer will need to be replaced 2-3 times a year at $50 each. In 5 years, the cost would be $250 total spend on consumer blow dryers that just don’t make the cut! This means a professional dryer can outlast a consumer dryer almost 5 times and cost you less!!!

 

• Consumer dryers are 2-4 times heavier than a professional dryer. A heavy dryer will cause fatigue, muscle soreness and a mad amount of sweat. If you have to take a break from drying for fear you may overheat, it’s time for a new dryer.

 At Studio RK, we currently carry two different types of dryers. Both are on sale at some killer prices to help with the investment of a professional dryer! Here are some of the key facts about each.

Specs	Sam Villa E.T.C	Babyliss Torino
Watts	1750	2000
Airflow	50mph/47mph w/nozzle	Unknown
Ceramic/Tourmaline	Yes	Yes
Weight	14oz	Approximately 2lbs
Attachments	2 nozzles/1 deep bowl diffuser	3 nozzles/1 shallow bowl diffuser
Ionic	Yes	Yes
Heat/Speed Settings	Heat-2 + cool shot	Heat-2 +cool shot
Warranty	1 year limited and lifetime against manufacturer defects	4 year limited
Cord Length	10 ft	9ft
Motor	Italian design + a patented Ecolution-Turbo Compressor	Italian design
Noise	Quiet	Loud
Sale Price	$160.00	$89.99
Original Price	$210.00	$210.00

 

I have used both of the above dryers personally and professionally. Though they are both great tools, the Sam Villa E.T.C takes the cake for me. With the ergonomic design and lightweight feel, I have yet to get tired or uncomfortable from holding this well designed tool. I love that the dryer is quieter than the Babyliss as well. I can have conversations with my guests, hear my daughter awake from her nap, or the doorbell while styling my own hair. A huge plus is the rubber like material that covers the outside of this dryer. Between sectioning, I can set the Sam Villa dryer on the counter without it slipping. Again, the rubber-like housing grips any surface, saving it from slipping to the floor. The nozzles are much easier to take on and off and the deep bowl diffuser definitely is a plus. Because the diffuser bowl is deeper than most, it causes the curls to naturally fall and dry much quicker.

 

Whether you choose the Sam Villa E.T.C. or the Babyliss Pro Torino, you will be pleased. Brace yourself for faster dry times, less sweat, energized arms and polished professional styles! If your still on the fence about what dryer is best for you, feel free to contact me, Toni Lee, at toni@studiorksalon.com and I can help you choose the best for your hair type!

Fort Myers Salon...Our Favorite Fall Nail Trends!

 
I really love this time of year because I am anxiously awaiting to see what new OPI colors will be making their way into the salon! Last year, pink was the "IT" color and, this year, the winners are dark and sparkly!   My dark favorite is OPI Road House Blues because it goes with so many different colors like blue, purple, and, of course,  anything dark!  OPI Honk If You Love OPI is another favorite.  It's also dark, but has a hint of purple if you're afraid of looking "Goth."  Overall, OPI's Fall Touring America collection is amazing as always!

Now let's get on with the sparkle!  The latest OPI collection is The Muppet Collection and it's really fun if you like SPARKLE!  SPARKLE!  SPARKLE!  With the holidays right around the corner, this fun, festive collection will satisfy anyone's need to have the most eye-catching nails and toes... I Mean, who doesn't like Miss Piggy!  She is the "Queen of Fashion" so when OPI gave her her own polish, it had to be fabulous.  They've created "Gettin Miss Piggy Wit It," and you know she is "wit" it alright!  Of course, Kermit was not to be left behind.  OPI created "Fresh Frog Of Bel-Air" which definitely looks "Kermit-like."  You really can't go wrong with this fun collection.  It is just amazing!

And presenting...OPI GelColor!  OPI has released another amazing soak off gel product.  We love this product!  It cures with a new LED light.  It glides on the nail with ease and is so much thinner and lighter than the OPI Axxium Soak Off Gel.  Best of all, it cures in 30 seconds so if you couldn't get your nails done before because of time, no more excuses, ladies!  Now you know all of our Fall "Faves and Must-Haves"... it's time to reserve your appointment and try them out!

 

 

 

Salon trend...It's all about the "Gingers!"

 Fun facts!!

1. The highest percentage of natural redheads in the world are located in Scotland (13%) followed by Ireland (10%), and in the US, only about 2%. Come on US! We need some more GINGERS!!
2. A study found that redheads are harder to sedate than any other people requiring 20% more anesthesia.  Those GINGERS are feisty!
3. Redheads have the least amount of hairs on their head compared to blondes and brunettes.  Just add some extensions, GINGERS!
4. Redheads don't turn grey.  They turn sandy, then white.  They are found to lose their color later in life in relation to other hair color types.  Another advantage to being a GINGER!
5. In Denmark, it is an honor to have a redhead child.  Hail to the GINGERS!

So, who doesn't love a Ginger?  Ok, so I'm not a natural redhead, but I went red 2 years ago and I won't go back!  Over the past five to ten years, red hair has become more sought after than ever before.  Thanks to the fashion industry, many more people are open to going red!

Are you a natural Ginger who loves your haircolor, but looking for a non-permanent way to spice up your glorious red hair?  Shades EQ by Redken can be the answer.  It can give you the level on level toning without completely changing the color of your hair.  Shades EQ will not give you a line of demarcation on your root when the color grows out.  It is a conditioning gloss that will give you a ton of shine, and help keep away those awful Florida frizzy fly-aways.  We also have more permanent solutions for our white or grey guests or those who are just dying be a GINGER! 

Everyone knows red is the hardest color to maintain its vibrancy and depth, but, thanks to technology, we have the help of many products on our own product shelf. 

Some of my fav's!

 

Redken's Total Recharge A few spritzs after shampooing will give you shine and offers UV protection.
Pureology Shampoos, Conditioners, and Stylers are all on the top of the list for color protection.  They offer a variety of products that target hydration, volume, and smoothing results while offering color protection.

I have been a blonde since I started coloring my hair, and, I have to tell you, I have never gotten so many compliments on my hair since I've gone red.  Belive it or not, most of the compliments were from men.  So, if I haven't convinced you to go red, maybe I have just opened your eyes to the idea.  Who said blondes have more fun?  I say, "Once you go GINGER, you never go back!!"

 

 

Salon Smoothing Treatments: Brazilian Blowout vs. Keratin by Coppola

There's been a little confusion and a whole-lot of press lately on The Brazilian Blowout and Coppola Keratin Treatments, and whether or not they are harmful to use. Both are simply treatments that coat the hair with keratin (protein) and help to eliminate frizz and cut down on blow dry time. I think where the confusion started is with the word "Brazilian." There is a Brazilian relaxer that does contain formaldehyde and a mask is needed for application. However, this is not the same as the Coppola Keratin or The Brazilian Blowout.

At Studio RK, we use the Coppola brand, which offers several options for smoothing. The full strength Keratin, which starts at $175 takes approximately 1 1/2-2 hours to do, lasts about 3 months, must be maintained with sulfate free shampoo and conditioner, and cannot be washed for the first 72 hours. There is a lighter version for highlighted blondes or double-processed blondes and those with fine, fuzzy hair, or what can be called "frog fur." Coppola also offers another product called Keratin Express Blowout , which seems to be comparable to The Brazilian Blowout. This treatment starts at $90 and can be washed in as little as 8 hours after. Lasting up to 6 weeks, it is the most requested Keratin.  Last, but not least, there is the Keratin Infusion Treatment which can be applied as an in-salon treatment or be purchased as a retail item.  This $20 in-salon treatment is perfect for that weekend away or special occasion or can be purchased for $41.25 to maintain and replenish your Keratin Complex or Blowout Express as a home treatment.  If you are still unsure which, if any, type of Keratin is best for you, if you answer yes to any of the following, you most likely need it!

Your hair has been mistaken for steel wool.
It takes 30 minutes or more to blowout your hair and it still looks awful.
You'd gladly give up your husband/boyfriend/children if you had to choose between them or your flatiron.
You have already or are killing your hair with the flatiron and it is breaking off in a cry for help.
You skip arms at the gym and just blow dry your hair instead.

If any of these apply to you, you need some Keratin in your life.

 

Iconic Hair

Often, people use pictures as a representation of what they want me to do to their hair.  Jennifer Aniston, who was named this decade’s hair icon, is the celebrity referenced most.  She is obviously blessed with great hair, but in an effort to understand what makes HER hair so “iconic”, I read an article Chris McMillan, her stylist, gave to ELLE. 

During their first visit, Jennifer told Chris that she wanted to keep her long hair and bangs.   But Chris thought she needed a change, so he did exactly the opposite!! He “chopped it off” and layered it, then taught her how to hide her bangs by pinning them to the side.  The result: “the Rachel”, the most coveted haircut of the 90’s.  Sometimes, stylist knows best (but ALWAYS needs your permission)….

When Chris discusses Jennifer’s hair, he references his knowledge of her personality and lifestyle.  He knows she doesn’t want a funky look.  She likes natural, casual, sexy hair.  She is low-key and down-to-earth.  He incorporates this information into his creations, and the result is the most iconic hair of the decade. 

Jennifer does her part too.  She considers Chris’s professional recommendations.  She comes in religiously every 6 weeks to have her hair done.  She deep-conditions it and uses the recommended products.  She’s also learned to style it on her own. 

So, there you have it. The formula for iconic hair is a combination of stylist and client – It’s a team effort!!  And Jennifer’s not the only one who can have iconic hair.  You can have it, too, by following her example!!

First of all, make sure you feel comfortable communicating with your stylist.  Your stylist needs your feedback on what worked or didn’t work the last time your hair was done.    This helps her to “customize” your look, enabling you to have the perfect hair FOR YOU.

To get iconic hair, you have to use the right products.  Investing in professional products guarantees professional results. Your stylist can help you do this in a budget-friendly manner, if need be. 

Being able to style your hair, so that it always looks iconic, is a necessity.  Your stylist can teach you how to get your hair looking its best.      

Make sure to schedule regular appointments to maintain your “iconic” look.  Once you’ve had amazing hair, you’ll want to keep it that way. 

And keep lots of your stylist’s cards on hand. People will want their hair to look as good as yours.  They will go see your stylist and say they want YOUR hair – not a celebrity’s!!

So, get ready!!  We know that Jennifer Aniston’s hair helped make and keep her a star… What will iconic hair do for you?

3 Hard Truths about The Salon Consultation

The best way to build and maintain any relationship is through communication,  this is no different with your stylist.  Trusting in your stylist the first step to making that happen.  As a whole, our first priority is to make our guests happy.  This all starts with a little understanding, which, in our world, is defined as "the consultation."  If you have faith in our talents, you wont be disappointed!

 

3 Hard Truths about Salon Consultations

1.  To all of you closet hairdressers out there with a do-it-yourself hair kit under the sink!  If you act as if you know what you are talking about, we will trust you and assume that you do.  Sometimes it is best for us to show you what we know.

 2.  If you say these ten words..."that's not how my old hairdresser used to do it"...We ALL will secretly be wishing they still did! 

 3.  A picture is worth a thousand words.  LITERALLY!  Hairdressers are visual creatures.  Show us a picture and we will show you perfection. 

I guess the jist of it is, "Allow us to serve you by doing what we do best!"

 

 

Hot Salon Hair Trend: Ombre Hair!

"Ombre" literally means graduation in French, which refers to the dark-to-light fade of color that is used in the technique. Instead of color that starts out at the root, darker roots blend into a lightened mid-shaft and end. It's a beachier, more natural looking version of the "visible root" trend.

The term was taken from the fashion world, where the Ombre style of diffusing color is used for fabric. In the hair industry, we like to translate what we see in fashion into hair.

This look can be wearable for just about anyone, and can be as conservative or edgy as the one wearing it. For those who want to try something different and trendy, but can't bear the thought of "roots" , highlights can be painted on up to the root around the face for a more natural, sunkissed look.
    
No foils means no lines of demarcation and a more low maintenance and organic look.  What more could you ask for--staying current and looking fabulous with less maintenance!!

 

Say hello to the future of salon manicures!

Say hello to the future of salon manicures!  CND (Creative Nail Design), has introduced a new beauty secret that has brought the DIY manicurists back into the nail salons. What's so amazing that's worth blogging about?  It's the Shellac attack!

Creative Nail Design, the leader in professional nail, hand and foot care has launched a brand new hybrid nail color after five years of development.  Now we can all say good-bye to smudges, chips and drying time and hello to long lasting flawless nails!

Shellac is a hybrid of nail polish and UV gel polish.  It comes in a polish bottle but unlike traditional polish it cures under a UV lamp.  There is absolutely no damage to the natural nail in the process. There are currently twelve colors which are all hypo-allergenic and have no formaldehyde, toluene or DBP.  The polish is thin and flexible like polish, so it not only looks natural, it provides the nail with protection from your daily activities.  The best is that it wears flawlessly for 14 days!

The process begins by receiving a manicure to clean the cuticles and shape the nails. The Shellac is painted on like polish - base coat, color, top coat.  The difference between the Shellac and the traditional manicure is that the hands are placed under a UV lamp in between each coat.  The polish dries to a perfectly glossy finish in only two minutes.  No more drying time!

The Shellac removes in a 10 minute process.  No soaking, drilling or filing needed.  The nails are wrapped in individual Shellac remover wraps, limiting the exposure of acetone onto the skin.  Once the ten minutes are up the wraps are removed to expose the flaked polish which can then be wiped off with a cotton swab and or nail wipe.

Studio Rk, is proud to offer it's salon guests with the most current nail treatment available. The future of mani's and pedi's are available by calling Studio Rk at 489-4144 and asking for the Shellac Manicure starting at $30.00 and/or the Shellac Pedicure, starting at $60.00.