SALON | STUDIO

Here’s a story to start out with the New Year.

That's What She Said

We had an extremely talented deaf hairdresser on staff, and one day a new client called and wanted an appointment with the “blind hairdresser.” I said, “You mean Vinnie? He’s deaf.” Her reply was, “No, the blind one.” So I booked the appointed and told Vinnie what she said. When she arrived, Vinnie put on sunglasses and started feeling her hair, head and face. He picked up his shears and proceeded to open and close them. The look on her face was priceless!

Nadine Comeau
BTC Facebook Fan
Albion, PA

http://behindthechair.com/files/tipofday/2010/1jan/jan2/splashs.html

Hikari Shears and Shear Sharpening by Pat Wedge

Are your shears not cutting or sharp enough?

Tony and I were cleaning the salon today and a tall, slender gentleman came in to sell shears. At first, I thought some ordinary guy looking to make some quick cash and dash. After looking at his business cards, I saw Hikari, Yasaka, Shisato, ETC…. top brand name shears. Like Joewell shears in the US, these were Japenese Steel Shears, hand crafted. You betcha the prices were high! But don’t let that fool you on his other service – shear sharpening.

I paid $25.00 for the best shear sharpening in Austin, Texas. Hands down! This guys knows his stuff and do a perfect job sharpening. We watched as he passed the shear over the honing stone. Just perfect, never too much like my previous experience. Previous folks made my new $300 shear look like it had been sharpened 5 times, seriously.

Pat Wedge is the real deal when it comes to taking his time and being maticulous. $50.00 wasn’t that bad for both thinner & shear. Why am I braging? because my shear felt and looked like it was factory sharpened… ask him to polish and buff your shears while he’s at it!

If you’re interested, give him a call, I like this guy!

Pat Wedge
his business cards read “Sales & Service of Fine Japanese Hair Shears, Factory Trained & Certified Shear Sharpener.

Phone 512-630-3720
patwedge@gmail.com”

Also, looks like he works for www.scissormall.com

Microderamabrasion

…for smoother younger looking skin

Microdermabrasion is a safe, non-surgical skin resurfacing procedure performed under the supervision of a certified professional Esthetician. Those who are in good health, possess good skin tone, and desire realistic results, are excellent candidates for microdermabrasion.A complete consultation includes an evaluation of your skin type and a discussion of your skin care needs. A sample treatment may also be performed on your hand to verify the painlessness and effectiveness of microdermabrasion.

Microdermabrasion And How It Works
Microdermabrasion is a safe, progressive approach to skin care that was developed in Italy in 1987. Using vacuum, and sometimes positive pressure, the machine and the specially-designed handpiece allow micro-fine crystals to pass over the skin. As the crystals make contact, they actually blast off a thin layer of the outer skin (dermis). The handpiece then vacuums off the dead skin and crystal particles. The procedure exfoliates the dry, dull skin, while stimulating circulation and collagen production.

Each treatment removes one to two layers of dead skin cells, depending on the condition that is being treated. The depth of treatment is determined by the trained operator and controlled through the speed of the handpiece, crystal flow and the number of passes. Since each treatment is customized, patients can be treated at their own comfort levels.

Candidates For Microdermabrasion
Unlike traditional dermabrasion, laser resurfacing or chemical peels, microdermabrasion is safe for men and women of all skin conditions and colors. The best candidate for microdermabrasion is one who wishes to improve the appearance of their skin and is willing to take an active role in protecting and maintaining the results. Microdermabrasion improves the overall appearance and tone of your skin; collagen production and circulation are improved; and the skin surface is smoother and healthier.

Customized Treatment Plan
After your initial consultation, a customized plan will be developed for you. Microdermabrasion is a progressive skin treatment. Your success depends on multiple treatments on a strict schedule.
Often called “The Lunch Time Peel,” each session may take between 30 minutes to one hour, depending on the areas being treated. Your skin may be slightly reddened for 20 minutes to several hours after the treatment but it is perfectly safe to apply your make-up and return to normal activities. There is no recovery or “down time” associated with microdermabrasion.

Number of Treatments
Your personalized regimen will be determined by the skin condition being treated and your desired results. The number of treatments can vary from 4 to 12, depending on the severity of your condition and treatment goals. Stretch marks and acne scars require the greatest number of treatments.

Microdermabrasion treatments should be performed 7 to 10 days apart. It is vitally important that you adhere to the schedule that is developed for you. Waiting longer than 14 days between treatments can interfere with your progress.

After your desired results have been achieved, you will want to have maintenance treatments at least every three months.

Advance Preparation
If you are using any skin care products containing Retin-A, hydroquinone, or glycolic acid, you will want to stop using them 48 hours before your treatment. You may resume their use 24 hours after treatment.
Skin that has been overexposed to the sun and sunburned should not be treated.

How Soon Will You See Results?
Remember, microdermabrasion is a progressive procedure. You will definitely feel softer, smoother skin and may see subtle improvement after only one visit. You will see likely visible improvement after four treatments. The benefits continue to multiply with each additional treatment as increased circulation is noted within the dermis and newer, healthier skin cells are seen at the surface.

Treatable Skin Conditions
Microdermabrasion has been clinically proven to significantly reduce the appearance of:
* wrinkles
* fine lines
* acne
* acne scars
* stretch marks
* age/sun spots
* enlarged pores
* clogged pores
* flaking & dry skin
* uneven pigmentation

Is Microdermabrasion Painful?
For normal treatments, you will experience the sensation of vacuum suction and crystal particles making contact with your skin. This should not be a painful experience. Sensitive areas around the eye and upper lip may feel more tender, but the technician will adjust the machine in these areas to prevent discomfort.

Special Products Before or After The Procedure?
Dependent upon the goals of your treatment protocol, certain prescription medications may be recommended, as well as a special series of skin care serums formulated for use specifically during and after microdermabrasion treatments.

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Leg wax

Do you like the results of a leg wax, but not the expense? We’ll show you how to wax just like the pros. Don’t expect waxing yourself to be as easy as it looks, but with a little time and effort you can get smooth legs without the high professional price tag.

Time Required: 1 hour half leg wax / 2 hours full leg wax

Cost:
Supplies $25.00
Wax Pot $29.00

Here’s How:

1. Buy waxing kit. Compare waxing kit prices.

2. Have enough hair. Grow leg hair out to at least 1/4″ long. Use hair clippers to trim hair down if longer than 1/2″. Scissors don’t work well for trimming because you run the risk of making some hair too short.

3. Cleanse legs. Use pre-wax cleanser on legs and apply a light dusting of powder. Don’t over do it on the powder, more isn’t better.

4. Wax on. Apply wax evenly in the direction of hair growth using applicator (wooden stick) to a large area of hair. You want enough wax to thoroughly cover hair, but not so thick that it’s hard to remove.

5. Cover with strip. Apply strip in the direction of hair growth, leaving some leftover strip at the end not attached to hair like a tab (say hair grows from left to right- leave leftover strip on right side). Press and firmly smooth hand over strip in the direction of hair growth a couple times, to ensure wax is attaching to hair and has slightly cooled.

6. Wax off. Grasp onto the end of strip that isn’t attached to hair. Hold skin taut with one hand, and remove strip in opposite direction of hair growth in one quick pull, all the way to the other side. Don’t pull up, which might be your natural inclination. Press hand down on skin to help relieve some of the pain, after strip is removed. (Sounds silly, but it works!) If a little bit of wax with hair remains, simply put strip back on hair and pull off.

7. Repeat. Work your way through legs repeating steps 4-6.

8. Clean up missed hairs. Use tweezers to remove any hairs missed by leg wax.

9. Clean wax off skin. Remove any remaining residue, with wax remover, baby oil or petroleum jelly.

10. Soothe skin. Apply after-wax lotion, or an aloe based lotion or gel.

11. Well done. Congratulate yourself!

Tips:

1. Use wax heater with a cream wax, which is gentle on the skin and easy to spread. Cold waxing strips might seem easier and less messy, but don’t grasp onto the hair well.
2. Test a small amount of wax on hand before putting on leg, to make sure it’s warm, not hot.
3. If you have varicose veins or phlebitis do not wax legs. Read: Waxing Precautions & Warnings for the full list.
4. Take an asprin or ibuprofen 30 – 45 minutes before waxing, and apply a numbing spray (compare prices) if you’re concerned about the ‘ouch factor’. Read: Top Ten Tips to Reduce Waxing Pain for the full run-down.
5. Watch the way the hair grows on various areas of the legs, because it can change direction on you. Try getting someone to help you wax the back of your upper legs.

Wella Hair Color

If having a fabulous cut and color to show off is a crime, then Salon Studio will get you arrested…

Koleston Perfect +  SALON | STUDIO =    best color
For 125 years, Wella Professionals has been the brand in professional hair care. Innovation, service and color competence distinguish Wella from competitors. With Wella, stylists achieve the best color results and keep up to date on the latest trends and techniques through regular seminars. And the real highlight from Wella surely is Koleston – the first cream haircolor in the world. Developed by Wella in 1950, it is impossible to imagine creative salons and hairstyles without it. Now there is new Koleston Perfect – with an improved formula for truly perfect color results. Exclusively used by SALON | STUDIO

Show your true colors and shine!
Whether a few highlights or a complete new haircolor – color makes you feel better and brighter. It feels fantastic – like wearing a new outfit for the first time. With brilliant color, you radiate attractiveness, strength and self confidence. Whether Pure Naturals, Rich Naturals, Vibrant Reds, Deep Browns, Special Blonde or Special Mix – every shade group from Koleston Perfect has its own charm, and emphasises your personality perfectly.

Unless you have very sensitive skin, waxing is a quick and relatively easy alternative to plucking your eyebrows. It is very popular and it can last weeks.

Eyebrow Waxing

Did you know that?
“If waxing is done regularly for several years, permanent hair reduction may be achieved.”
[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Waxing]

Waxing is a method of semi-permanent hair removal which removes the hair from the root. New hairs will not grow back in the previously waxed area for two to eight weeks. Almost any area of the body can be waxed, including eyebrows, face, bikini area, legs, arms, back, abdomen and feet. There are many types of waxing suitable for removing unwanted hair. If waxing is done regularly for several years, permanent hair reduction may be achieved.

Essential Pedicure

Are you interested in getting a pedicure, but don’t know what to expect? Or are you interested in doing this for the first time, but don’t know where to start? A pedicure can be a wonderful form of pampering, and can lift your spirits and soothe your aching feet at the same time.

If you’re going to a salon to get a pedicure, they’ll have all of the necessary tools and equipment, and usually even supply you with your choice of nail colors. If you’re doing this at home, you can accomplish most of the same effect without any expensive investments. Even if you’re going to a salon, it’s always nice to bring your own nail polish, though, just so you can “touch up” the color later if you need to!

When you go in for your pedicure, here’s what you can expect:

1. Schedule your pedicure in advance with us. We take “walk-in” customers; however, you’ll have less stress and far less chance of a long wait if you make an appointment in advance.

2. Items to bring with you include: a pair of open-toed shoes, like thongs or sandals with fully open toes; nail polish, a book or magazine if you wish.

3. Allow a full hour for your pedicure. You may be done in 20-30 minutes; however, you don’t want to rush it and you’ll want to make sure your toes are completely dry before leaving.

4. Bear in mind that you’ll be sitting in an open area with your feet up in the air. Short skirts may lead to embarrassing situations, and tight-legged pants may be difficult to roll up adequately. Plan your outfit accordingly!

Steps for the pedicure itself include:

1. There are two types of pedicure stations – a standard rolling cart that the manicurist sits on, with a bar in the front your feet rest on, or a large chair with a basin at the feet. Fortunately for you, we have the latter style, also known as a “spa chair”.

2. Your nail polish (if any) is removed off of each toenail.

3. Your toenails are cut and shaped before being soaked; however, we may do this after soaking. Large nail clippers and Emory boards are used to trim and file your toenails to a nice shape. You can select the length and shape you wish (rounded or squared), if you want to. Just let us know how you want it.

4. Your feet will be soaked in a large basin of warm water, often with a small vibration to it. Your feet should soak for at least five minutes before they start work on your cuticles.

5. One foot is removed from the water, and a cuticle lotion is applied to the edge of the toenails. An orange stick (a long wand with a squared off end) is used to push back the cuticles from the toenail.

6. A Cuticle trimmer (which resembles a tiny metal wirecutter) is used to trim off the dead skin around the toenail edges. No live skin is cut.

7. A little dot of oil is applied and rubbed into each toe.

8. The other foot is removed from the water, and the cuticles trimmed.

9. A rough piece of rock called a pumice stone is used to remove callouses and dead skin from the base of both foot. Sometimes, we use metal scrapers to slough off dead skin.

10. Both feet are rinsed with water, and patted dry with a clean towel.

11. An application of corn cob and exfoliating gel is used to further slough dead skin.

13. The nails are buffed to a nice smooth shine with a nail buffer. This step may occur in conjunction with the nail trimming but is often saved until near the end.

14. Lotion is applied to each leg and foot, and rubbed in with a massaging motion.

15. The toenails are cleaned with a final drip of acetone (nail polish remover) on a clean cotton ball to remove any oil or lotion.

16. The feet are patted totally dry, and foam forms are inserted between the toenails to keep your toes apart.

17. Nail polish is applied to each toenail. Typically you will have two coats of colored polish between the first coat of base and last coat of clear (topcoat).

18. You will be asked to sit for 5-10 minutes with your feet in front of a fan to allow your toes to dry completely before leaving.

19. Your manicurist will check to make sure your toes are completely dry before removing your toe dividers. If you’re in doubt, ask usto check before you put your shoes back on!

20. We’ll carefully ease your toes into your thongs or sandals, being careful not to scrape your new polish. Your toenail polish may take up to another hour or more to dry fully, so don’t plan on putting an tight fitting shoes or socks on for at least this long!

Full set

Gel Nails: What are Gel Nails?
Gel nails are a form of artificial nail application. Gel can be applied directly to the nail bed or used with a nail tip to extend the length of the nail. Once the gel is applied to the nail, it is then cured under a special UV light to harden the gel. When using tips to extend nail length, the tip is glued to the nail, then the gel is applied over the nail and cured. Without a tip, the gel is applied directly to the nail and cured. This method is great for strengthening your natural nail, while allowing your nails to grow.

Gel Nails vs Acrylic Nails: Which are better?
Both gel and acrylic nails have their advantages. Both gel and acrylic can be used with or without a nail tip for added length. Both need to be filled every 2 weeks or so. Opinions on which is stronger differ from person to person. One advantage of gel applications is that they are odorless whereas the acrylic smell can be overwhelming for some. Gel nails also look very, very natural, with or without an added tip. And can be worn without nail polish. Acrylic nails look best when polished. As with all artificial nails, gel especially should be applied by a mastered professional. If gel is not cured correctly and if the gel is not applied thin enough between coats, problems can arise. Always ask the nail salon if they are properly trained in gel applications.