Many times I get home from work in disbelief over some of the actions that my clients and the clients in the salon.  I want to give a few pointers so you do not become one those clients a stylist comes to resent.

We all know there can be traffic or other unforeseen circumstances on the way to your appointment. I even appreciate a call to say you're running late.  However, DO NOT show up complaining about traffic or your baby sitter showing up late when you have a NEW Starbucks in your hand!  If you're going to stop and get a coffee, call ahead and see if I would like a drink.  If you really want to earn points, call and get the whole salon staff a drink.

For the most part stylists don't mind if you call ahead to cancel or reschedule.  Not showing up without a call is a bit harsh.  Stylists often have other clients that they can fit in if you don't show up.  Imagine if you went to work and your boss told you go home for a few hours in the middle of the day without pay.  That is what it's like when clients fail to keep their appointments.

For many clients, their salon time is time away from their own children and is treasured as alone time.  Why would you think someone else would want to hear your kid fuss and cry?  Bringing your kid to a salon can often be one of the most inconsiderate things clients can do.  Another thing, the salon is not the place to bring your friends. I don't think I need to expand on that.

We are all addicted to our phones, I am, too.  When you are in the salon, try to have it on vibrate.  You might think that ringtone is real cute, but nobody else does.  If you must answer the phone make it quick or take it outside as long as it doesn't interrupt the service you are receiving.  If you do answer the phone, be conscious of your volume.  Remember, the salon is a getaway for many people and they enjoy the peace and quiet.

Stylists can create wonders with color and a good cut, but we have our limits, too.  If you bring in a picture of a look you want and your stylist says it's not possible for your hair, it probably isn't.  Remember, the pictures you often see of celebrities are photo shopped.  If your stylist says it might take a couple of hours and will cost more than your usual appointment, don't be shocked.  You have to expect to pay for something you ask for.

I'm not sure why, but so many clients feel the need to whip their head around every time the front door opens.  For the most part, salons will have a receptionist that will take care of whoever walked in.  There's nothing harder than trying to cut hair on a moving head.  I've had children sit still longer than some adults.  If your stylist has your head tilted or turned a certain way, you can guarantee it's for a reason.  You might not know the reason, but there's a method to the madness.

I know you might have your way of styling at home, but nothing is more off putting than a client grabbing the blow dryer and brush and finishing the styling.  If you aren't sure why the stylist is doing your hair a certain way, feel free to ask and they will be more than happy to give you styling tips and techniques.

Sometimes a client will want something different and it shocks them - I understand that.  But calling weeks later to say you need something changed is not ok.  I will gladly make changes and adjustments to your hair if you let me know within a few days.  One way to avoid miscommunication is to bring an image of the look you are going for.

The break room is the only solace a stylist has.  If your stylist has let you in the break room great, but trust, no other stylist wants you back there.  Just like you need a break when you're at work, stylists are no different.

I know there are more items to speak on but I'll just leave you with these here.  Remember everyone in the salon wants to leave feeling gorgeous and pampered, not like they need a Xanax.

More often than not my fine haired clients fear conditioner or deep treatments.  I understand. You want soft hair, but wonder if it is worth potentially not having volume or your hair not holding a curl?  How can you get the benefits of healthy hair without it being too weighed down?

Condition before you wash.  Yes, I just said that.  If you know you are going to wash your hair in the morning, condition the ends the night before.  Certain hair types will benefit from using either a conditioner or a hair oil alone, while others will see drastic improvements from using both.  One of the great benefits of the newer hair oils is that they are internally repairing.  They are no longer just "topical treatments".  Putting oil in your hair the night before a wash gives the oil time to do its job and the hair a chance to absorb what it can.  All you need is a few pumps and it only needs to be applied to the ends of your hair.  Clip your hair up and be sure to wear a shower cap or use an old pillowcase when you are ready to sleep.

When you wash your hair the next morning, wash only the roots; the shampoo will wash off any excess product that the hair could not take in.  This will give you soft, manageable hair without worrying about the extra oils weighing the hair down. Over time, you will find that your hair will be stronger, have more bounce and movement and your hair will look and feel healthier than ever.

We carry a variety of conditioners and oils to aid you in your quest for softer, healthier looking hair.

Click on the specific image to purchase any of these products via Amazon.

For finer hair types I strongly recommend using conditioner plus a couple of drops of oil.
For medium to coarse hair types, I suggest using the oil by itself.

If you are not sure what hair regimen would be best for you, feel free to message me or stop by the salon.  I would love to answer any of your questions.

1. Start by misting LEAVE IN CONDITIONER all over the hair.
2. Apply OCEAN MIST liberally.
3. Air dry, diffuse or blow dry.  You will get a slightly different result with each drying method.
4. Finish with either a dab of HAIR WAX or a light spritz of SPRAY WAX for additional texture and definition.

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Earlier this week, I took a class on Balayage using Solaris Clay Bleach, a specialty hair product from France.  Balayage is a customized hair painting technique that guarantees each and every  client a one of a kind look.  The end result is the client's hair has a naturally highlighted look, ensuring a seamless grow out.  The process takes a bit longer than traditional foil highlights, but the extra time is well worth the wait.  The end results are AMAZING.

For more information on Balayage, check out this article from Vogue Australia.