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Master The Salon-Quality Essex Girl Curly Blow-Dry At Home

Fri, 12 Sep 2025 11:11:45 GMT

Master The Salon-Quality Essex Girl Curly Blow-Dry At Home

It might be a cliche, but that feeling when you’ve just stepped out of a salon with a great blow-dry really is a mood-booster: heads turn, and you walk with that extra air of confidence. However, it’s very difficult to recreate the magic at home — no matter how hard you try, the results are never as polished or long-lasting.

Our famous Essex girl blow dry course can change all that. Here are some of our trade secrets.

Prep like a pro

Start with freshly washed hair and apply a heat protector . Sectioning is key – smaller sections mean more control and longer-lasting curls.

Use the right tools

A round brush and a powerful hairdryer are your best friends. The brush creates shape while the dryer locks it in. Always keep the nozzle pointing down the hair shaft for a smooth, glossy finish.

Pin for perfection

Here’s where the Essex Girl touch comes in – pin curls. After blow-drying each section, pin it in place to cool. This sets the curl and adds that extra bounce and longevity you’ll never get from skipping this step.

The finish

Once your curls are cool, remove the pins and gently brush out for soft, glamorous waves. Add a touch of hairspray and you’ve got the look that turns heads.

Of course, there’s no substitute for learning hands-on with a pro. Our one-to-one or small-group lessons are designed to give you the confidence to recreate salon results at home – or even turn your new skill into a career.

Are Hair Extensions Damaging & Other Outdated Myths Busted

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 09:33:19 GMT

Are Hair Extensions Damaging & Other Outdated Myths Busted

If you dream of long flowing locks, but have dismissed the idea of extensions because you’ve heard they can damage your hair, it might be time to reconsider. Over the past few years, hair extensions have become much more sleek and sophisticated, using modern techniques that give durable, safe and discreet results.

Here’s a look at some common myths about extensions, and the reality of today’s methods.

Myth: extensions weaken your hair

The biggest misconception is that extensions weaken your natural hair. This idea usually comes from bad experiences with poor-quality extensions or DIY application. Cheap products and incorrect fitting methods can tug at the hair, cause tangling, and leave breakage behind.

The facts

Professional application makes all the difference. At a specialist salon, extensions are carefully colour-matched, expertly fitted, and chosen to suit your natural hair type . Modern techniques like ultra or pro tips, tapes, and invisible weaves are designed to be gentle and discreet, meaning you can enjoy volume and length without compromising your own hair.

Myth: hair extensions are high maintenance

It is important to look after your hair extensions, but this doesn’t involve much more effort than caring for your natural hair.

The facts

It’s advisable to use sulphate-free shampoos , brush gently and avoid excessive heat styling. If you follow the aftercare tips given by your stylist, you should have no problems keeping your extensions in great condition.

Myth: hair extensions slow growth

If you want to use hair extensions to gain temporary length while you grow your own hair, you might have heard that they stunt natural hair growth.

The facts

Your hair grows from follicles under the skin on your scalp, and extensions are attached at a small distance from the roots. The ability of your hair to grow is completely unaffected.

Top Tips To Protect Your Hair From Summer Heat And Humidity

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 16:28:00 GMT

Top Tips To Protect Your Hair From Summer Heat And Humidity

Summer 2025 has shown us plenty of warmth and sunshine so far, which is great for holidays, festivals and days at the beach. But all that sun and humidity can wreak havoc on your hair, whether you’re dealing with frizz, dryness, or faded colour.

Here are some salon-approved tips to help you protect your locks and keep them looking their best all season long.

Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate

Just like your skin, your hair needs extra moisture in the summer. Hot weather, UV exposure and swimming can dry your strands out. Use a hydrating shampoo and conditioner, and add a weekly hair mask to your routine. Look for products containing ingredients like argan oil, shea butter, or keratin for a deep moisture boost.

Try a hair botox treatment

If you’re struggling with frizz, dryness, or general lack of shine, a hair botox treatment can be a game-changer. This intensive conditioning treatment smooths and strengthens hair by filling in damaged areas on the strand. It’s ideal for summer because it helps your hair stay sleek and glossy even in humid conditions.

Always use a heat protectant

If you’re using straighteners, curling wands or even a hairdryer, don’t forget to apply a heat protectant spray or serum first. This forms a barrier that helps reduce damage from hot tools—and it also offers protection from the sun’s heat if you’re out and about.

Protect your hair fr om the sun

Just like your skin, your hair can be damaged by UV rays. Too much sun can cause colour fading, dryness, and even breakage. Wearing a wide-brimmed hat or scarf is a simple and stylish way to protect your locks. You can also buy UV-protective hair sprays to guard

4 Questions To Ask When Booking A Bridal Hair & Makeup Artist

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 14:53:51 GMT

4 Questions To Ask When Booking A Bridal Hair & Makeup Artist

Choosing the right bridal make-up artist and hair stylist for your wedding day is important: you’ll have to spend several hours in their company, and you want to feel comfortable and be confident that you’ll look your best at the end of it. Here are some key questions to ask before making that booking.

Do you offer both hair and makeup services?

If you can find a beauty salon that offers both services under one roof, it will save you some time and stress on the day. The team will be used to working together, so your hair and makeup will look more professional and coordinated.

Can I book a trial?

A trial allows you to ensure that your chosen look works for you , and will also give you a chance to test out how well the hair style and makeup last—you don’t want to be dealing with a collapsing-up do or running mascara just when you are due to walk down the aisle.

It will also help you to pin down timings so you can plan your morning schedule more accurately.

Have you worked with the wedding venue before?

Popular bridal hair and makeup artists may already be familiar with your venue, and understand about the lighting considerations and overall aesthetics and setup of the space. This can help them to show you off to the best advantage.

Do you offer services for the bridal party?

Ask if there are group packages available that include the bridesmaids, matron of honour or mother of the bride. This can make the logistics on the day easier, and may also be a more economical option. You’ll also have continuity of styling for the whole bridal party.

How To Get Your Hair And Skin Prepped For Wedding Photos

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 13:50:47 GMT

How To Get Your Hair And Skin Prepped For Wedding Photos

Summer weddings are ideal for outdoor photo backdrops as gardens are in full bloom and the sun is at the height of its powers. However, bright daylight and high definition cameras can mean that every detail will be exposed. Here’s how to beat the heat, rain or humidity and ensure that you look flawless in your wedding photos.

Frizz-proof your hair with deep treatments

Summer weddings are ideal for loose flowing hairstyles, but heat, drizzle or humidity can soon turn beautifully styled waves into frizz or flyaways. If your hair is prone to dullness or dryness, consider a hair Botox treatment in the months before your wedding.

This is an advanced deep conditioning treatment with active ingredients such as keratin, collagen, amino acids, and proteins. It not only nourishes your hair, but works to rebuild damaged strands so that your hair looks smoother and shinier. This will give you gorgeous glossy wedding hair that holds its shape, whatever the weather.

Use airbrush makeup

Avoid heavy powders and creamy foundations as these will not flatter your skin in direct light. Instead, opt for airbrush primer and makeup for a flawless finish, and carry a bottle of setting spray in your handbag for long lasting hold. This will be a perfect balance between dewy finishes that soon fade, and matt finishes that can be too dull and drying.

Take care of yourself

A good self-care routine in the months before your wedding will ensure that your skin and hair are in great shape. Prioritise hydration and limit intake of caffeine and alcohol to avoid puffy eyes and dry skin. Cleanse once or twice a day, and exfoliate once or twice a week. Always use an SPF product to avoid redness and fine lines.

Top 3 Hairstyles For Wedding Guests That Will Last All Day

Tue, 20 May 2025 14:54:12 GMT

Top 3 Hairstyles For Wedding Guests That Will Last All Day

When choosing a hairstyle as a wedding guest, you need to pick a do that will look as good when you hit the dancefloor as it does when you’re watching the bride walk down the aisle.

But it’s not easy keeping your hair stylish and sleek for several hours, with no flyaways or loose pins. Here are three of the best hair dos that will look great on wedding guests this summer and are guaranteed to stay in place, no matter how much hugging and dancing you do.

1) Barrel waves

One of the most popular looks this summer will be brushed-out waves for the simple reason that it is easy to do yourself. What’s more, if you use the right tools and products, it won’t fall out, with the waves staying intact till your head hits the pillow.

This style goes particularly well with a backless dress, but looks chic and sophisticated with any outfit.

Make sure you allow the waves to cool properly before brushing them and keep them in place with some hairspray.

2) Finger-raked ponytail

For ladies who struggle to make their topknots look tidy and their chignons chic, this is the look for you. Finger-raked ponytails are allowed to look loose and messy, with the texture giving it a romantic, care-free feel.

To avoid looking like a schoolgirl, wear the ponytail high, which pulls up your cheekbones and gives your roots some lift. Curl the loose hair and brush through for some natural-looking waves.

The great thing about this look is you don’t have to worry about flyaway tresses or loose strands, and as long as the bobble is twisted tightly, it will survive all your dance moves.

3) Sleek low bun

A sleek low bun looks so neat and perfect, everyone will assume you booked a wedding hair stylist to do it.

Simply pull your hair into a tight low bun and carefully twist the length around itself before discretely pinning it up. The trick is to make sure all loose ends are scraped back and use shine spray to give it that sleek appearance.

You can do this style with a deep side parting, a strict half parting or no parting at all, and it will look great with both a smart tuxedo or backless dress.

Hair Botox For Brides: Have Your Best Hair On Your Big Day

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 15:36:45 GMT

Hair Botox For Brides: Have Your Best Hair On Your Big Day

When our hair is looking its shiny and healthy best, we often feel more confident and happy on the inside as well. There is no occasion when you will want to feel like this more than on your wedding day, which is why hair botox treatment is now a popular pre-wedding prep for brides

Here’s a look at what it can do for you.

What is hair botox?

If you are confused about what hair botox is, don’t worry: it doesn’t involve injectables like the anti-wrinkle version. The hair treatment is an advanced deep conditioning treatment that not only nourishes and smooths the hair, but also rebuilds damaged strands to restore the appearance of strong healthy hair.

It contains a variety of proven active ingredients, including keratin, collagen, amino acids, proteins and vitamins. These work together to combat frizz and add body and shine without the damaging effects of chemical relaxers. Don’t worry if you love your waves or curls: the treatment will just make them look smoother and glossier without weighing them down.

Why hair botox is the perfect pre-wedding treatment

Here’s why hair botox is fast becoming a must-have pre-wedding treatment for brides:

Banish the frizz

Even if your hair is naturally smooth, your wedding day will probably involve some time outdoors as you pose for photographs and meet and greet guests. The Great British weather can be unpredictable, with heat and humidity or drizzle playing havoc with even the most carefully styled hair.

Hair Botox effectively controls frizz throughout the day and into the night, so your photos will always show you at your most sleek and stylish.

Salon standard shine that shows

Hair botox will add a natural looking gloss to your hair that no regular conditioner can match, giving you that professionally styled sheen even if you are out in all weathers. Your gorgeous hair will provide your wedding photos and videos with that extra wow factor.

Soft and manageable hair for your dream bridal do

Bridal hair calls for hair that is in great condition, so if your hair is dull, dry, or prone to flyaways and split ends, then hair botox is the answer to your prayers. Whether you are dreaming of soft beachy waves or a classic up do, your stylist will be able to make you look the very best version of yourself.

Your dream honeymoon hair

The results of your treatment will last beyond the big day: you will have beautiful glossy hair throughout your honeymoon, making your holiday styling effortless and giving you plenty of options.

Tips for the best results

Ideally, book your treatment at least two to four weeks before the big day to allow your hair to settle and to be ready in time for your trial hair appointment. Avoid colouring your hair directly after the treatments, and ask your stylist for tips on how to prolong the results.

Three Fun Spring Hairstyles For Little Party Princesses

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 15:36:26 GMT

Three Fun Spring Hairstyles For Little Party Princesses

It’s a beautiful time of the year, as the trees blossom and we are basking in some welcome sunshine after the long winter. If your little one celebrates her birthday in spring, then it’s all the more magical. No doubt she will be looking forward to celebrating with her friends, and will quite possibly want a princess theme birthday party !

Getting dressed up with some age-appropriate hair and makeup styles is all part of the fun, and at Pretty Invested this is what we love to help your little princesses to do. They will each have a professional hair stylist on hand to transform them into their favourite fairytale characters. Here are some of the best-loved looks for fabulous birthday hair .

Tiara updos

The elegant updo is regal and royal, and certainly fit for your princess. If she adores all things sparkly, she will love this look as it is finished off with a glittering tiara. It’s also a great style for active and practical girls who prefer their long hair to be out of the way as they party. Choose between a chignon or a cute ballerina bun.

Fun flowing curls

For girls with lovely long locks, then bouncy waves or adorable ringlets might be their favourite look. This can be achieved in advance by plaiting the hair when it is wet and letting it dry naturally. Alternatively, our stylists will use gentle curling tools or clip-ins to create soft loose waves. The look can be topped off with a pretty flower crown or a satin bow.

Fairytale braids

Braids are a classic choice for little princesses. Go for an Elsa-inspired elegant and regal crown, or long funky braids entwined with colourful ribbons, sprinkled with glitter, or miniature flowers tucked into the plaits.

Top Tips For Coordinating Your Bridesmaid Hair And Makeup

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 11:16:21 GMT

Top Tips For Coordinating Your Bridesmaid Hair And Makeup

If you are planning your wedding, then you will naturally want to make sure that the whole bridal party looks just as beautiful as yourself! This can be a rather stressful process, particularly if the party consists of a diverse range of personalities, ages and styles. However, with some planning, it’s possible to strike a good balance.

Here are some wedding hair and make-up tips to help ensure that every bridesmaid looks good, and more importantly, feels happy and comfortable on the big day.

Consider the mood and theme of your wedding

The hair style and makeup of the bridesmaids should complement your own style, and also the overall ambience of the wedding. For example, do you want a romantic and bohemian vibe, or understated elegance? If you have already decided on the dresses, take into consideration the necklines when deciding between up-dos and loose flowing waves.

For example, high necklines or those with lots of intricate details will be shown off better by an up-do. Low or off the shoulder necklines can be complemented with looser styles, or half-up, half-down hair.

If your wedding has a more traditional and sophisticated style, you may want to have a soft neutral makeup palette that will subtly enhance facial features without taking centre stage. For a more glamorous yet cohesive look, you could match eye and lip shades to the colour of the dress, or add a touch of drama with smokey eyes.

Be considerate of individual tastes and features

Above all, you want your bridesmaids to feel confident and comfortable with the way they look. While it’s natural to want to create an overall sense of harmony so the whole group works together well visually, don’t stress too much about a perfectly uniform look.

Offer your bridesmaids a range of choices within your chosen style and colour scheme, so that they can account for their personal preferences, natural colouring, hair texture and length, and so on. It’s more important that makeup is designed to work with the individual features of the bridesmaid rather than rigidly replicate a preconceived idea.

Have a hair and makeup trial

If you are booking a bridal hair and makeup trial for yourself, consider including your bridesmaids as well. This will be an opportunity to test out different styles and ensure that they work for everybody. It’s also useful for dealing with any issues such as skin allergies or hair colour or condition before the big day.

When everyone is glammed up, take a group photo so that you can see how well the overall result works together, and make any adjustments if necessary.

Overall, while it’s important to invest some time and effort into coordinating your bridesmaids’ hair and makeup, the most important thing is that everyone is happy with their choices, and is excited and looking forward to showcasing their look on the big day.

Bridal Hair: Should You Get Extensions For Your Big Day?

Wed, 12 Mar 2025 09:51:59 GMT

Bridal Hair: Should You Get Extensions For Your Big Day?

If you are tying the knot this year, no doubt you have already put in a lot of planning and hard work to make it all come together. Besides the venue, the guest list and your dress, another key consideration will be your bridal hair style . Maybe you wish that your hair had more length or volume to give you more options.

One way to achieve this versatility if your hair is short to medium length is by having hair extensions. Here’s a look at what’s involved, and if they might be the right solution for you.

W hat are the benefits of hair extensions for brides?

Hair extensions are a brilliant way to achieve beautiful long flowing locks if your natural hair is not as long as you’d like. They can also be a way to achieve added volume if your own hair is fine or thin. This can give a more luxuriant look for up dos, or give you the full cascading waves that you dream of.

What are the key considerations?

There are different types of hair extensions, including temporary clip-in or tape-in extensions, and more permanent weaves or bonded extensions. More permanent extensions will require professional installation and extra care and maintenance, so consider if you will have the time and budget for this.

High quality extensions that are made from real human hair will give you much more natural looking results, and they will also be easier to style than synthetic alternatives. Ensure that the extensions are a good match for the colour and texture of your hair, and that they will not put too much pressure on your existing hair, particularly if it is fine.

If you do decide to go ahead, it’s best to schedule your appointment well in advance of the big day, so that you will have time to adjust to your new look!

How Have Hair Extensions Changed Over Time?

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 13:35:08 GMT

How Have Hair Extensions Changed Throughout Human History?

It is very rare for hair extensions to go out of fashion, and any hairdresser who learns how to expertly fit hair extensions will provide a vital selling point for their business.

Whilst many hairstyles will go in and out of fashion, long hair will always have a place, and this has been true for thousands of years, even if the techniques and materials have changed tremendously.

The earliest examples of hair weaves were found in Ancient Egypt , which was likely a consequence of their approach to cleanliness.

Body hair was frowned upon for reasons of hygiene, but long thick heads of hair were seen as a highly desirable status symbol. Along with wigs, hair extensions were also worn, most commonly made from a mix of human hair and wool to boost thickness and allow for vibrant colours through dyes.

Whilst hair extensions were occasionally seen after this, the concept was revived during the Elizabethan era, when the eponymous Queen Elizabeth I became famous for her ornately styled hairpieces, also made from dyed sheep’s wool.

This would also be seen in Pre-Revolutionary France, particularly during the reign of King Louis XIII. Starting in 1624 and continuing up until 1790, hair extensions and wigs were a common sight, often augmented with brightly coloured powder dyes.

Whilst initially worn by King Louis due to insecurity, it began a trend that would spread throughout French and European nobility for centuries.

During this period, hair extensions would no longer attempt to represent real albeit lengthened hair and started to reach outlandish proportions, with huge beehive hairstyles strengthened with frames that were weaved into a natural hairstyle.

Following the French Revolution and a dramatic downsizing of hairstyles, it would take until the 1950s before clip-in hair extensions became more popular, only growing in popularity, sophistication and comfort in the decades since.

Top Tips For Extending The Life Of Your Hair Botox Treatment

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 13:51:45 GMT

Top Tips For Extending The Life Of Your Hair Botox Treatment

Investing in hair botox treatment can make a dramatic difference to the condition and appearance of your hair, which can be particularly appreciated during the UK’s cold wet winter. Central heating and damp weather is the enemy of smooth glossy hair, causing frizz, dryness and split ends.

Hair botox is a revolutionary treatment that rebuilds damaged hair follicles and infuses them with hydrating vitamins and proteins, leading to instantly fuller, stronger and shinier hair. Here are some tips for making the most of your hair investment so you can maintain that salon sheen as long as possible.

Use gentle hair care products

A lot of shampoos and conditioners contain harsh chemicals that are designed to preserve the shelf life of the product or give it an artificial colour, texture or fragrance. These substances, such as sulphates , can break down the compounds in the hair botox prematurely. Instead, look for gentle products with natural ingredients.

Avoid excessive heat styling

Naturally, you will want your hair to look sleek and beautiful on special occasions. For your everyday look, try to avoid the use of heated styling tools such as straightening irons and curling wands. When blow drying your hair, always use a heat protectant spray to preserve your treatment.

Avoid washing your hair daily

Unless you have very oily hair, you should not need to wash your hair every day. Curly hair can be washed as little as once a week, and straighter hair can generally be washed two or three times a week. Use a dry shampoo to absorb any oiliness at the roots on non-washing days. This will keep your hair in lovely condition for longer.

Tips For A Magical Winter Wonderland Party For Your Princess

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 17:19:25 GMT

Tips For A Magical Winter Wonderland Party For Your Princess

If your little princess has a birthday approaching in the next few months, it can be difficult to know how to arrange the perfect party as we are winding down from the hectic festive season. Here’s where our princess party package will come riding to your rescue! It’s the perfect excuse for some Frozen style frocks and matching hair and makeup.

Setting the scene

There is so much scope for a princess themed birthday party at this time of the year. Think glittery snowflakes, sparkling icicles, white balloons, and silver streamers, with a generous helping of spray-on snow and fairy lights. Your party palace will have a magical and photo-worthy backdrop that is super easy to style.

The icing on the cake: expertly styled hair and makeup

All you need to do is kit your little princess out in an adorable dress, and our expert stylists will take care of the rest. They can conjure up Elsa-inspired braids or loose flowing curls with a few waves of their magic wands, finished off with sparkly hairpins or a glittering tiara.

The royal treatment will be topped off with some fun makeup, such as a touch of shimmer on the eyelids and cheeks, and cute painted motifs such as snowflakes or jewel shapes.

Fun and games

We’ll provide fun activities such as wand and tiara decorating and jewellery making. There’ll also be games and entertainers to keep the special guests amused, plus treats such as popcorn and donuts. You are welcome to provide additional catering and game ideas!

So, what are you waiting for: book your winter wonderland princess party with us today, and your little guests will have a lifetime of magical memories.

What Is Hair Botox And How Can It Rejuvenate Winter Hair?

Wed, 25 Dec 2024 13:19:23 GMT

What Is Hair Botox And How Can It Rejuvenate Winter Hair?

Whilst many of us have enjoyed walking in a winter wonderland, it can sometimes lead to a hair nightmare.

The cold weather can lead to a lack of humidity, particularly in dry, heated homes, which can lead to breakages, frizz and split-ends.

One of the most interesting, dramatic and popular options right now to solve this is hair botox , a set of rejuvenating treatments that can give your hair a glossy vibrance to it that might have been lost over the autumn and winter.

Unlike its namesake, hair botox does not involve the use of any injectables but instead is a topical treatment that can achieve for your hair what botox does for many faces, smoothing imperfections and turning back the clock.

It also must be noted that hair botox does not actually contain botulinum toxin, the active ingredient that smooths skin. Instead, the name is illustrative of how it works.

The main ingredients can vary but can include vitamins, oils, proteins, hyaluronic acid and other ingredients that are kind to your hair that work to fill the hair fibres, adding volume, as well as sealing up split ends and reducing frizz.

It is not just a hairstyle or shampooing treatment but is designed specifically to provide long-term beautiful conditioning, stronger and softer hair.

Hair botox tends to be a bespoke treatment, varying in some of the specific steps of the treatment depending on the texture of your hair, how long it is and what the expected look is.

It typically involves the application of the hair botox solution, which is then left on for between 25 minutes but can be up to an hour, before being rinsed out, shampooed and conditioned.

After this, it must be kept dry for at least 48 hours to allow the ingredients to bed in and take effect.

It is a perfect antidote for the season and well worth a try if your New Year’s Resolution is happier hair.

Festive Flair For Hair: Four Fab Christmas Party Hairstyles

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 16:37:30 GMT

Festive Flair For Hair: Four Fab Christmas Party Hairstyles

The Christmas party season is almost upon us and it’s time to roll out the sequins and dust off your dancing shoes. In all the demands that this time of year can bring, you might have been too busy to think too much about how you will style your hair with your favourite party outfit.

However, knowing that your hair looks fabulous can really boost your mood and set you up for a brilliant evening. Here’s a few stunning hairstyles that will be sure to put you in the mood to party.

The sleek ponytail

The simple but elegant sleek ponytail is a modern classic, and is ideal for a sophisticated party look when you don’t have a lot of time to prepare. This style works best for long hair that is in great condition. If your hair is prone to issues such as frizz, tangles, and split ends, then you may want to consider a deep conditioning treatment to improve shine and softness.

One of the most advanced treatments is hair Botox . Despite the name, this does not involve the injection of botulinum toxin; however it does have a transformative smoothing effect. The nourishing ingredients can fill in damaged hair fibres to create impressive shine and volume. It can be carried out at the salon and the results will last for eight to 12 weeks.

Half up, half down

If you want to combine the elegance of an up do with the softness of loose hair, then try the half-up, half-down style. It works well on all types of medium to long hair; showing off curls and keeping them off your face, or adding volume to finer straight hair.

It’s also the perfect way to add some decorative interest to your hair, as you can secure the pulled back sections with a festive bow or a glitter or jewel encrusted clip. For extra interest, twist each section of hair as you pull it back. You can also add extra body and bounce by gently curling the loose hair with heated tongs.

Braided crown

If you’ve got some extra time on your hands and you want an extra special style for longer hair, then the braided crown look intertwined with some sparkly hair tinsel will be a knock out. It takes a little practice to perfect, but there’s loads of YouTube videos to help you get to grips with this super style.

Side sweep

If you prefer wearing your hair down but want something a little more glam than your usual go-to style, then the side sweep is the perfect solution. It works best on medium length or longer hair, and can be especially effective on fuller hair that is lightly tousled and textured. Use styling products to add volume, lightly curling the ends with tongs.

Make a deep side parting and use bobby pins to keep it discreetly in place as you party.

Hair Extension Inspiration: Chic Styles For Any Occasion

Mon, 14 Oct 2024 16:11:41 GMT

Hair Extension Inspiration: Chic Styles For Any Occasion

Hair extensions can open the door to a whole world of new styles that you might not have explored before. Whether you want to achieve the perfect beach waves or master the art of putting your hair up for a formal occasion, we can provide you with lessons at our Brentwood salon. Here are a few hair extension inspirations in the meantime!

Cool party styles

The party season is gearing up, with Halloween, Bonfire Night and of course Christmas all starting to appear on the horizon. This is the perfect time to show off your hair extensions with some fun and glam styles. For a sophisticated look, pull your hair back into a slick high ponytail and let the extensions cascade elegantly down your back.

For a more laid back look that is also right on trend, soft beach waves will flatter any face shape and are easy to style with extensions. You can achieve the look either by twisting two strands together while your hair is damp, and then loosening it off and lightly spraying with a styling product, or by using a heated curling wand.

Everyday looks

For everyday styles when you want a practical yet polished look, a messy bun is a favourite for long haired girls. You can pile your hair on top of your head to add height, or go for a more casual low bun. Tease out some of the hair in the bun to create your desired level of messiness, and pull out a few sections at the front to frame your face.

Alternatively, you could pull your hair into a simple low ponytail and wrap a section around the band for a chic twist. If you have a bit more time on your hands, you could use hair straighteners to achieve a super sleek and shiny look and wear your tresses long and loose. Add some shine serum for some extra gloss.

Wedding hair

If you are a bride to be, no doubt you will already be thinking about what to do with your hair on the big day. With hair extensions, you can achieve pretty much any look you want! Think about the type of wedding you are having; for example is it a formal occasion in a church, or a more unconventional venue?

Consider your dress and other accessories if you have already decided on these: for example, if you are wearing a strapless ball gown with a statement necklace, then you may want to show it off with a classic chignon or bun. Hair extensions will create extra volume for a more sophisticated effect.

If your wedding will be a more bohemian or rustic affair, then you may wish to wear your hair in a half up, half down style or in soft loose waves. This can be achieved by wearing your hair in loose braids before the big day, or by using a heated curling wand.

Hair Despair? 5 Issues Hair Botox Treatment Will Sort Out

Mon, 07 Oct 2024 13:48:10 GMT

Hair Despair? 5 Issues Hair Botox Treatment Will Sort Out

We all love to have shiny and manageable hair that is a breeze to style and makes us feel good. However, with so many stressors that can rob your hair of life and shine, it’s not surprising that many of us have some degree of hair problems. Here are five common issues that hair botox treatment can sort out for you.

Frightful frizz

If your hair is prone to a frizzy and flyaway texture, it’s likely that you’ve tried all sorts of ‘miracle’ products that promise to control it, but often fail to deliver any significant results. You may even resort to frequently using heat styling tools to tame the frizz, which can aggravate the problem in the long run.

Hair botox takes an innovative approach to the damage that can cause the frizzy texture. Its groundbreaking formula works by penetrating the individual strands and filling in the structure of the hair, instantly helping it to look smoother and sleeker.

Dry and damaged

At this time of year, hair can be damaged by sun exposure and chlorine from swimming pools or hot tubs. Perhaps your tresses have become tired and dry from overstyling, or are naturally dry and prone to breaking. As we approach winter, hair will suffer further damage from central heating and less humid conditions.

Botox treatment can help by infusing your hair with keratin, amino acids and vitamins, providing deep conditioning that will leave your hair stronger and more resilient to everyday wear and tear.

Split ends

Hair that is brittle often splits at the ends, which if left untreated will spread up the hair shaft and leave your hair looking straggly, rough and thin. If your hair has been chemically treated or you regularly use curlers, straightening irons, or hair dryers, you have probably noticed that it’s prone to breakage and split ends.

Hair botox will coat the damaged strands and smooth them out, helping your hair to look healthier and fuller.

Dull and lifeless

Hair that is in good condition has a natural shine and glossy texture. If your hair has lost its lustre, botox treatment will help to bring it back. It works by sealing the hair cuticle so that it is smoother and reflects more light, and replenishes the nutrients it needs to look soft and healthy. that can rob your hair of life.

Tangled and tearaway

If your hair seems to be constantly tangled to matter how much love you lavish on it, it may have become damaged through styling and over washing. You may notice that no matter how much effort you put into keeping your hair looking well groomed, it’s difficult to manage and your familiar favourite styles just don’t look right or won’t stay put.

Hair botox can help to bring the softness of your hair back, so that it feels smoother and is less prone to tangling. It will make your morning routine easier as getting your hair to look ready for the day ahead will be less of a battle.

Tiaras Without Dramas: Tips For A Stress-Free Princess Party

Thu, 22 Aug 2024 12:03:21 GMT

Tiaras Without Dramas: Tips For A Stress-Free Princess Party

Hosting a princess party at our Brentwood salon is the ultimate way to treat your little one and her friends to a magical celebration that they are sure to treasure for the rest of their lives. However, emotions can run high on these occasions when your kids are buzzing with excitement and you are trying to get on top of all the details.

This calls for a strategy to ensure that the event will run smoothly and be an enjoyable and stress-free experience for everyone involved. Here are some top tips!

Leave the pampering to the professionals

Part of the charm of a princess party is the chance for children to dress up and step into the shoes of their favourite characters for a couple of hours. However, to avoid disappointment if a magical transformation fails to materialise, be sure to book your event in advance at our fairytale salon.

We will take care of the hair and makeup styling at our pink palace, so all you have to do is find your princess a dress that looks the part and leave the rest to our team of professional stylists. We will wave our magic wands and sprinkle fairy dust with generous amounts of glittery makeup and hair accessories so everyone will look special and feel the part!

Plan well ahead

To avoid disappointment, plan well in advance and choose your theme, so that all of your guests can RSVP in good time and decide on their costume. You may wish to narrow down the princess theme to a specific fairytale or animated film, with so many classics such as Frozen, Beauty and the Beast, and The Little Mermaid to choose from.

Set a budget so that you know how much you want to spend on venue hire, catering, decorations, and entertainment. Book your venue before you send out the invitations to ensure you don’t have to revise the time or date.

If your child’s birthday falls at a time when many people will be away, such as a Bank Holiday weekend, consider postponing the celebration until more people can attend. In terms of numbers, check how many guests the venue can handle, and pick a number that aligns with your budget.

If your child is over five or six years old they have probably already started to form their own friendship circles, so it may be simpler and more budget-friendly to invite a handful of close friends rather than a large gang.

Plan some fun decor

If you are booking with us, we will handle all of the entertainment and activities, so you do not have to worry about how to fill in the time! However, we encourage you to arrive an hour in advance to set up some themed decorations to create the right atmosphere. We provide treats including popcorn and donuts, but you may wish to supply additional catering.

Classic Or Contemporary Style: What Works For Bridal Hair?

Thu, 08 Aug 2024 15:08:37 GMT

Classic Or Contemporary Style: What Works For Bridal Hair?

Choosing your wedding hair style can be almost as tricky as drawing up the seating plan for your reception: all eyes will be on you during your big moment, and the whole day will no doubt be documented on a hundred camera phones, not to mention by the official wedding photographer. You definitely want to look back on your hair with no regrets!

One of the most common dilemmas is whether to go for a classic updo, or a more contemporary looser and more creative style. Here are some pointers to help you decide.

The classic updo

Wearing your hair up in a chignon or a French twist is a classic wedding hair style. It looks sleek, stylish and sophisticated, ensuring that your hairstyle will look timeless in the photographs that you will enjoy looking back on. It’s generally a flattering look no matter what your age or facial structure, making you look and feel more elegant.

The updo also works better with certain types of dress. If you have a ball gown style, or a dress with an intricate neckline that is intended to be the focal point, then wearing your hair up will show it off to best effect rather than fight with it. The same applies to elaborate necklaces or earrings; wear your hair up so that they can be seen!

A further consideration is the overall tone and theme of your wedding: if it’s a formal affair that follows the usual wedding traditions, then an updo will complement the venue and mood of the day. Finally, consider the natural texture and length of your hair: short or medium length fine or very silky hair may be more challenging to keep in place throughout the day.

Contemporary styles

In recent years, loose soft waves or half up, half down wedding hairstyles have become very popular. These freer styles can be more creative and easy to adapt to a range of different wedding themes. For example, if you are having a rustic wedding with outdoor socialising, a messy bun or loose half-up style could work well with the surroundings.

If you have a flowing bohemian style dress in diaphanous fabrics, then loose soft waves will complement this look perfectly. If you have a strapless or spaghetti strap dress, then a casual updo with some loose tendrils to frame your face could work well.

If you are having a chic urban wedding and wearing a non-traditional outfit such as a two piece suit or a jumpsuit, then a slicked back ponytail or a sleek blow dry will complement this look well.

Again, you need to take your natural hair length, body and texture into consideration, as styling products can only do so much and the effects may be undone if the weather is wet or windy. Loose hairstyles call for hair that is in great shape, so if you are wearing your hair down invest in some deep conditioning treatments in the weeks before your wedding.

Bad Hair Nightmare: Tips To Avoid A Wedding Hair Disaster

Thu, 18 Jul 2024 12:26:40 GMT

Bad Hair Nightmare: Tips To Avoid A Wedding Hair Disaster

We all have the odd bad hair day, but one occasion when you definitely don’t want this to happen is on your wedding day. You have probably invested a lot of time and money into putting your wedding look together, from your dream dress to beautiful accessories and flattering makeup. Your hair needs to be on your side! Here are some tips.

Have a trial run

it is probably the case that you are wearing your wedding day hair in a style that you are not accustomed to, and you may even have had a special treatment or restyle such as a new colour or length. This can leave a lot to chance on the big day, so consider booking a pre-wedding hair trial to see if it will really go the distance.

You can combine the appointment with a makeup trial so you can get used to your own reflection! It’s also a chance to check that your hair won’t slip out of place as you go about your day, and make sure you are really happy with the style.

Consider the weather

While it may be impossible to accurately forecast the weather conditions on the day, consider the usual climate and location: for example, if you are going to be somewhere hot and humid or by the sea, your hair may be prone to frizz and flyaways. This will not be a good look for your wedding photographs, especially if you want to wear your hair down.

Consider investing in a deep conditioning treatment to ensure your hair is sleek and controllable. One of the most effective solutions is botox hair treatment, which will miraculously transform damaged, dry or fine hair into glossy smooth tresses, without weighing it down.

Do not be tempted to make last minute changes

In the stressful few days before you tie the knot, your emotional state may be running a little high, and this is not a good place to be making decisions about your hair! Do not give into a panic or an urge to make everything look ‘perfect.’

This could lead to some regrettable choices, such as a dramatic change of colour that doesn’t suit you, or a cut that just doesn’t work when it is too late to do anything about it.

Build up a relationship with your stylist in the months before the wedding, so that they are familiar with your hair type, wedding day plans, and personality, and hopefully they will step in to avert disaster if you suddenly demand a daring restyle on the eve of your wedding.

Pack an emergency kit

Keep an emergency kit to hand, or give it to a trusted party to take care of, packed with bobby pins, hairspray, a comb, and a frizz tamer, to deal with any mishaps that might occur on the day of your wedding.

Hair Botox For Brides: Perfect For Flawless Wedding Photos

Fri, 21 Jun 2024 14:58:34 GMT

Hair Botox For Brides: Perfect For Flawless Wedding Photos

Your wedding day is one of the biggest occasions of your life, and naturally as a bride you will want to look your very best. One of the most difficult aspects of your appearance to get right can be your hair, especially if it is naturally unruly and prone to problems such as frizz or lack of bounce and volume.

A transformative treatment that has been gaining popularity in recent years is hair botox . Here’s why it could help you to achieve the silky and lustrous tresses of your dreams on your wedding day.

What is hair botox?

You might already be familiar with botox as a cosmetic skin procedure, and are confused about how it could be applied to hair. Well don’t worry, it’s a completely non-invasive treatment and doesn’t involve any injections. It is a topical treatment that delivers a rich blend of vitamins, amino acids and proteins that deeply nourish the hair.

The unique formula is absorbed into the hair follicle and fills out the structure of the hair, so weak and damaged strands appear stronger and smoother. This can have a transformative effect on frizzy or over processed hair that lacks life and shine.

The treatment is suitable for all hair types; it doesn’t weigh hair down so fine or thin hair will appear fuller, and it won’t drag the curl out of naturally curly hair but it will tame unwanted frizz.

Why hair botox can work magic for your wedding day

Hair botox provides instant results, so after just one treatment your hair will look beautifully smooth and shiny. This is ideal for busy brides who no doubt have a burgeoning to-do list to get through before the big day, and do not necessarily want to commit to time consuming weekly hair conditioning sessions.

You can be confident that your hair will look fabulous on the day itself, helping you to feel confident in your appearance and complementing your wedding outfit and makeup to perfection. When you look back on the photographs , you can be sure there will be no frizzy flyaways in sight, whatever the weather.

Furthermore, the botox treatment will last for between three to five months, so you can enjoy sleek salon standard locks on your honeymoon and well beyond, giving you a glamorous boost to begin your married life.

How to get the most out of your botox treatment

Book your appointment a few weeks in advance of your wedding day to allow you to get used to the new look and feel of your hair and make any adjustments to how you want to style it on the big day. For example, you may feel more confident about wearing it down, or have some soft curls to frame your face.

Follow the after care instructions and use the recommended products to ensure that your hair stays in tip top condition.

What Is Hair Botox Treatment? Everything You Need To Know

Thu, 30 May 2024 10:29:27 GMT

What Is Hair Botox Treatment? Everything You Need To Know

If you are tired of bad hair days and despair of so-called miracle conditioners that make little difference, then hair botox treatment could be your saviour. It may sound like a daunting procedure involving injectables, but don't worry; no needles are necessary. It’s a uniquely formulated deep conditioning treatment for frizzy or damaged hair.

Here’s a closer look at what hair botox is and how it can help you.

What exactly is hair botox?

Hair botox is so-named because it has a transformational effect on the texture and appearance of hair, smoothing out the strands in a similar way that skin botox creates a smooth and wrinkle-free complexion. However, the application process of hair botox is completely separate from the cosmetic skin procedure.

The hair treatment contains a unique blend of amino acids , proteins, saturated vitamins and minerals that help to strengthen and hydrate the hair, improving the elasticity and helping to prevent breakage and split ends. This can rejuvenate tired and dull hair, creating shine and buoyancy and controlling frizz.

The formula is designed to penetrate damaged strands of hair and fill the structure so that it is smoother and stronger, and appears fuller. It also contains high-grade UV protection to prevent sun damage and ageing effects that can cause hair to look fragile and lacklustre.

Is hair botox suitable for my hair type?

Hair botox is suitable for all hair types. It won’t take the curl out of naturally curly hair, but it will nourish the hair and tame frizz, which can be a difficult problem for people with natural curls. It’s also perfect for people with thin, fine or overprocessed hair that looks rough and lifeless, because it restores condition without weighing the hair down.

What are the benefits of hair botox treatment?

Hair botox treatment has several key benefits, including the following:

Frizz reduction: the treatment will tame frizz, making the hair sleeker and more manageable, and easier to adapt to a range of styles.

Stronger hair: The unique formula is designed to fill in damaged hair strands, resulting in stronger and healthier hair that is more resistant to breakage and split ends.

Enhanced shine: The formula contains ingredients that smooth out the hair and deeply nourishes it, so that it reflects light more easily and appears beautifully glossy and shiny.

Extra volume: If you find that deep conditioning treatments usually leave your hair looking flat and lifeless, then you will be very pleased with the results of hair botox. It is specially designed to promote fullness and volume, so your hair will look younger and more vibrant.

How long does the treatment last?

Hair botox lasts for between three to five months, depending on the frequency of washing. For the first 24 hours after treatment, you should not wash your hair at all, tie it back, or cover it. The stylist may recommend that you use specialist products to maintain the condition of your hair in the first week after treatment.

What Bridal Hairstyles Are Dominant In 2024?

Mon, 20 May 2024 14:34:51 GMT

What Bridal Hairstyles Are Dominant In 2024?

With summer approaching, it will soon be wedding season and in churches, registry offices, hotels and some more unusual venues up and down the land, there will be lots of blushing brides walking down the aisle.

If you are among them, you will doubtless find yourself very busy planning every detail, with one of the most important being how you will look.

Getting your bridal hair done will be one of the most crucial, as your face will appear in just about every photo of you. You may already know exactly how you want it, but if you don’t, now may be the time to consider some ideas.

You don’t have to follow the latest fashions, of course, but there appear to be lots of popular styles this year, not least buns and waves.

Before 2023 was over, the Right Hair Styles website was predicting 15 popular styles for 2024. Among these, it suggested, would be ‘soft low buns’ and ‘Boho waves’, along with a ‘romantic high bun’, ‘unstructured mid styles’, and minimalist accessories.

If there is a running theme in his list, it would be to suggest that less is more. The styles are not too elaborate, not so complex that they could unravel, and focus on simple beauty without excessive adornment.

Since peak season is not yet here, it is too soon to be sure what may truly emerge as the most popular styles, but Hello Magazine has been quick to spot what the celebs have been doing.

Hair stylist to the famous Lisa Marie Smith said: "The most popular hair trends have been the textured French pleat, soft glam waves and the polished sleek bun," which sounds rather like some of the others mentioned above.

Indeed, Ms Smith noted she had been especially impressed with the “gorgeous sleek bun styles worn by Sofia Richie and Sophie Habboo”. She described these as “super sophisticated whilst also being bang on trend,” as well as being suited to any weather.

It seems that if buns or waves are what you are looking for, you really will be capturing the spirit of this year’s bridal fashion.

How To Decide If You Want A Bridal Hair And Makeup Trial

Tue, 16 Apr 2024 11:42:26 GMT

How To Decide If You Want A Bridal Hair And Makeup Trial

If your big wedding day is coming up this summer, no doubt you are in the midst of a long to-do list as the excitement builds. It’s a day that you will remember for the rest of your life, not least because of the hundreds of photographs that will be taken.

Therefore you will naturally want to look your best, and have probably already invested a lot of time and money into selecting the perfect wedding clothes, having fittings and seeking the opinion of friends and family. Your hair and makeup are just as important to complete the look, and this is why some brides-to-be have a trial run before their wedding day.

Why have a bridal hair and makeup trial?

If you have not considered the idea of road testing your bridal hair and makeup before, it may seem like another expense and time-consuming chore when you already have plenty of other things to deal with.

However, unless you are sticking to a look that is very similar to your everyday style, suddenly seeing a new version of yourself on the day of your wedding can be rather unsettling. This is the last thing you want, when the pressure is on to look and feel at ease among your guests and in the wedding photographs.

A trial run gives you the opportunity to test out your look and feel comfortable with it. If you feel too alien and distanced from your authentic self, it can affect the whole mood of the day, so it’s important to make sure you feel happy, and have the confidence to request any changes.

Does the look go the distance?

Book your trial for a reasonably early hour of the morning, just as you will be doing on your wedding day. Time how long it takes, so that you can fit it comfortably into your wedding schedule without any holdups. Spend the day going about your usual activities (well maybe not a long gym session, but you get the picture) to see how well it lasts.

This can help to avoid any annoying smudges and hair fails if you find that the look is not long lasting enough. Address any concerns with your stylist, who will be able to suggest appropriate solutions. It’s also a chance to ensure that you do not have allergies to new products that might cause unfortunate reactions such as rashes.

Building stronger relationships with your stylist

The trial is a chance to get to know your stylist better, and also for them to know you. This will ensure that you feel more relaxed with them, and you don’t have to worry about meeting strangers just when you are feeling most nervous and tense on your wedding morning.

It also opens lines of communication for new suggestions and more creative ideas, and you may find that they are able to make suggestions that perfectly suit your personal style, but hadn’t occurred to you before.

Five Fun And Easy Hairstyles For Under-Ten Girls To Try

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 11:31:40 GMT

Five Fun And Easy Hairstyles For Under-Ten Girls To Try

If you have little girls to get ready for school each morning, then you will probably know that getting their hair looking tidy and presentable can be a challenge! You and your little princesses might have some very different ideas about what styles to wear.

It’s understandable that your little ones might want something more exciting than a straightforward ponytail or bunches, but you don’t have time for complicated hairdos. Here are a few fun and easy hairstyle ideas for the under-tens that will look great anywhere from school to a birthday party.

Colourful hair bands

To add some interest to the standard bunches, gather a collection of elastic fabric-coloured hair bands in a variety of bright colours. Pull each bunch higher on the head so that they begin a few inches above the ears, and secure each one with a different coloured band.

Add another selection of colours a couple of inches down, and repeat until you reach the end of each bunch. This is a practical hairstyle to keep longer hair neatly out of the way during school activities, and it’s really quick to do as well as looking super cute.

The half-up half-down

This is a good solution if your little girl wants to wear her long hair loose to school but you want it neatly tied back. Simply gather up the top section of the hair above the ears and secure it with a hair band or a decorative barrette clip. For an extra twist, you could plait the swept back section into a long braid.

The side-swept braid

If your girl has very long hair, sweep it to one side and start braiding it from the nape of her neck so it falls over one shoulder. Secure the end with a colourful band for that Elsa from Frozen look. If there are messy shorter bits of hair falling across one side of her face, secure them with a pair of pretty clips.

Braided buns

This is a super-neat style that also looks cute for longer hair. Part the hair down the middle and start braiding each side at about ear level. tie the ends with a band and then coil each braid into a bun, securing firmly with hairpins.

The double -to-single braid

For a twist on a single braid, centre part the hair and fasten two small sections from above the ears at each side of the head. Plait each section about three-quarters of the way to the end, or just past the nape of the neck. Then gather up all of the hair at the nape and continue in one single braid that falls down the back.

If you are interested in booking princess parties in Brentwood, please get in touch with us today .

Top Tips To Help Your Little One Find Her Perfect Princess

Thu, 15 Feb 2024 10:49:03 GMT

Top Tips To Help Your Little One Find Her Perfect Princess

If your little one is looking forward to her very first princess theme birthday party , no doubt she is already bubbling with excitement and anticipation. Planning the outfit is of course all part of the fun, and it might take a while for her to decide which princesses' shoes to step in! Here are some top tips to help her make the event a real-life fairytale.

Decide who her favourite princess is

With so many inspirational ladies to choose from, the hardest stage might be choosing a favourite princess to emulate. Disney princesses are not just about enviable hairstyles and stylish clothes; they are unique characters who are brave, adventurous, ingenious, kind, determined, and resilient.

Have a fun afternoon or two watching your favourite movies together, and discuss the personal qualities and aspirations of the heroines that your child feels are important or similar to their own.

Make sure she is comfortable in the outfit

If your child is active and boisterous, they may not enjoy spending time in a long ball gown such as those worn by Cinderella or Bella from Beauty and the Beast, no matter how gorgeous they may look. Consider more practical alternatives such as Moana’s cool beach outfits, Merida’s no-nonsense green dress in Brave, or Mulan’s stylish layered outfits.

Above all, your little one should be comfortable and be able to move about freely. Make sure that the outfit fits them well, and is made from a breathable fabric with no scratchy seams or labels.

Have fun with hair and makeup

Hair and makeup makeovers may be on the party itinerary, so don’t worry too much about creating a professional look. However, you may want to experiment with creating some cute hairstyles such as braids or beach waves before the big day. Choose fun make up such as glittery eyeshadow and a dusting of blusher.

Top Tips To Make The Most Of A Themed Disney Princess Party

Tue, 16 Jan 2024 11:32:37 GMT

Top Tips To Make The Most Of A Themed Disney Princess Party

One of the most popular ways for your little one to celebrate their birthday is with a princess party. It’s a fairytale come true for fans of dressing up, with the freedom to look as sparkly and glam as possible for the day! Here are some top tips to make the most of the experience.

Draw up the guest list

For a themed party, whole class invitations can become impractical, so choose up to 10 of your child’s closest friends to invite. This is a manageable number and should avoid leaving out anyone in their immediate friendship group.

Find a suitable venue

You may wish to host the party at home, but it can feel more special if you book a venue. This will also save you a lot of work in terms of preparation and clean up! An ideal venue is a local beauty salon who offer special princess party packages .

This will include a free makeup and hair styling session, which will take a lot of pressure off you when getting your own little princess ready for the party… Instead, your child can have fantastic fun with her friends as she is sprinkled with a magical fairy godmother makeover at the hands of the professionals.

Your daughter will be thrilled to have their very own glitter makeup artist and hairstylist to transform them into the Disney princess of their dreams. Tiaras and jewellery making sessions provide the perfect finishing touch to get the divas looking picture perfect. To make lasting memories of the special day, polaroid photo shoots with props will be on hand.

Decide on a favourite princess

Disney heroines are far from just pretty faces; they all have amazing tales to tell and you can have fun watching classic movies such as Frozen, Beauty and the Beast, The Little Mermaid, Sleeping Beauty, Moana, Tangled, and many more!

Will your little one be inspired by Elsa, Rapunzel, Aurora, or perhaps Ariel? There’s a diverse range of heroines in terms of personalities, stories, and looks, so no doubt your child will have a favourite character who really resonates with them.

Pack some perfect party bags

There’s no need to spend a fortune, but some party bags that the guests can take away are a nice gesture to make the event memorable. Keep it in line with the Disney theme and include costume jewellery, glitter nail polish, hair accessories, and a few sugary treats.

Arrange some snacks

Check if the venue provides food and drink. If not, you may be able to bring some party snacks of your own. Keep it simple with classics such as cup cakes, crisps, finger sandwiches, and sausage rolls. Check in advance if any of the guests have special dietary requirements.

Enjoy the fun!

Sit back and enjoy the party games and dressing up for a birthday experience that you and your little one will treasure forever!

How To Get The Makeup Look Of These Iconic Disney Princesses

Sun, 10 Dec 2023 10:55:28 GMT

How To Get The Makeup Look Of These Iconic Disney Princesses

The image of the Disney princess has been given a refreshing makeover during the past 30 years or so. Long gone are the delicate damsels in distress who are waiting to be rescued from their lives by a handsome prince. The modern fairytale princess is a strong lady who is very much on her own journey, and she is all the more interesting for that.

That’s not to say that we don’t admire the beauty of these iconic Disney heroines, and who can blame a girl for wanting to have a princess theme birthday party ? It’s a chance to have fun playing around with gorgeous clothes and some rocking hair and makeup styles. Here’s a quick guide to getting the makeup looks of some classic princesses.

Princess Tiana From The Princess And The Frog

Tiana is the protagonist of the 2009 Disney film The Princess and The Frog. She is a resourceful and hard working woman who has a dream of using her talent for cooking to open her own restaurant. She’s also passionate and strong-willed, and well able to handle whatever life throws at her.

Tiana has brown skin and light brown eyes, with wavy black hair. She spends much of the movie in the guise of a frog and her signature makeup colour is green, which complements her warm skin tone perfectly.

Have fun with this look by blending yellow and lime green eyeshadow on your lids, and drawing a thick line of dark green eyeliner on the upper lash line. Along your lower lash line, let loose with a line of glittery grass green eyeshadow. Complete the look by drawing three small leaves in the outer corner of each lid with eyeliner.

Queen Elsa from Frozen

Elsa can appear to be an ice queen, but underneath she has a warm heart and a strong and loyal personality. She is the wise older sister to Anna and is willing to protect those close to her. She has her inner demons to wrestle with throughout the movie, which makes her a believable character who is striving to find a place in the world.

Elsa has pale skin with platinum hair and large blue eyes. Her signature makeup look is pretty pink and purple blended eyeshadow in bold shades, and thick black eyelashes. Finish the look with some shimmery silver glitter in the outer corner of the eye. Brush the cheeks with pink blusher and apply some deep pink lipstick, and you’re all set.

Belle from Beauty and the Beast

Belle is a smart and imaginative girl who is not afraid to express her own opinions. She is unconcerned with her appearance, despite being admired for her beauty.

Belle’s signature look is sculpted cheekbones and full glossy lips. To get the look, apply light brown eyeshadow to the corner of the eyes and along the lower lashline, then apply a glittery gold shade to the lids. Apply plenty of black or brown mascara, or use false lashes if you want. Use a glowy highlighter on your cheeks, and apply a rich glossy lip colour.

Two Disney Princess Party Hairstyles To Try This Christmas

Mon, 27 Nov 2023 15:54:26 GMT

Two Disney Princess Party Hairstyles To Try This Christmas

It’s the party season, and it’s time to unleash your inner Disney princess with some fun and fabulous hairstyles . Here are some top ideas to help you channel that magical fairytale experience this winter.

The elegant Elsa braid

Queen Elsa (aka The Snow Queen) is the Frozen star with icy superpowers. Her long platinum blonde hair is elegantly styled in a sideways braid that falls to one side. If you do not have long hair but would love to rock an Elsa braid, consider having hair extensions.

To achieve this look, brush out your hair and tease out any tangles. If your hair is fine, use a backcombing tool to create some of that cartoon-style volume first of all. This is easier to do with hair that hasn’t been recently washed. Use a fine-toothed comb and comb your hair forwards in sections, and then lightly comb the front section smoothly over the top.

Start a French braid from the upper back of your head, taking chunky sections of hair, and loosely braid to the nape of your neck, directing it to one side so that the rest of the braid will fall over your shoulder. Keeping the braid loose, flip it over your shoulder and continue down the length of your hair. Secure with a clear band.

To make the braid look fuller, gently pull on each side to give it some volume. If you have shorter pieces of hair that frame your face, pull these out gently and curl them with a styling tool. Loosely arrange them on the top and sides of your head and secure with hairspray. If you want to go full-on princess, tie a blue bow at the end of the braid.

Beachy Ariel waves

Ariel, the spirited star of The Little Mermaid, has thick flowing red waves. This has inspired a whole host of mermaid hair trends, with one of the most popular being beachy waves. It’s a perfect hairstyle for any occasion, as it can look both casual and dressy with a few subtle alterations.

It’s a super easy look to achieve with medium or longer length hair, and flatters everyone, whatever age, colouring, or face shape. They are a great balance between straight and curly, so are achievable whatever type of hair you have.

Start by spritzing your hair all over with a heat protectant spray and then curl it with a curling iron. Section off hair from top to bottom, and place one to two inches of the section onto the iron, leaving the last two inches out. Twist the iron away from your face and hold for a few seconds and then release.

Repeat the process on each section and avoid touching the curls until they are cool. Spritz with a medium-hold hairspray and very gently brush out the waves. Apply a serum to the ends of your hair to take care of any untidy flyaway ends.

Hair Extension Dos And Don’ts: Get Great Lasting Results

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 13:18:14 GMT

Hair Extension Dos And Don’ts: Get Great Lasting Results

Hair extensions are an exciting way to transform your image and give you the gorgeous long voluminous mane you’ve always dreamed of. It’s a major investment of time and money, so you will want to make sure that you take care of your hair as well as possible to keep it looking great. Here are a few tips to avoid some common haircare mistakes.

Do start with a professional consultation

It’s really important to choose the right type of hair extensions and method of installing them. This will depend on your natural hair type, your lifestyle and what result you want to achieve. It’s strongly recommended to seek a professional opinion so that you will end up with the right hair extensions for you.

Do go for quality

Quality refers to the type of hair that you use and the stylist that you choose to install it. Choose real human hair extensions for the best results, and always have them installed by a professional rather than attempting to do it yourself.

Don’t deviate too much from your natural colour or texture

Hair extensions are not designed to take colours, so it’s best to match it as closely as possible to your natural hair colour and texture.

Do follow a regular hair care routine

Follow the hair care advice you are given by the stylist on washing and caring for your hair. It’s best to use sulphate-free products that won’t leave a residue or dry out your hair too much. Avoid washing your hair everyday as this may reduce the lifespan of your extensions.

When brushing long hair, use a tangle teezer first of all to reduce the possibility of breakages. Avoid prolonged exposure to chlorine, direct sunlight, and saltwater, as this can cause the colour to fade and the hair to become dry and brittle.

Don’t go to bed with wet hair

If you go to bed with long wet hair, it will not only feel very uncomfortable, but also become very tangled and matted as you move around in your sleep. This can leave you with a real headache as you try to undo the damage in the morning.

Don’t overstyle your hair

It might be tempting to use heat styling tools every day to show off your long locks, but overstyling can cause it to become dull and damaged. Save heat styling for a maximum of once a week, and always use plenty of heat protection spray first.

Don’t exceed the recommended wear time

Leaving the hair extensions in for too long can cause damage to your own hair, so don’t be tempted to skip the maintenance appointments and have them safely removed when appropriate.

If you are looking for hair extensions in Brentwood Essex, please get in touch with us today .

How To Make Your Hair Grow More Quickly

Tue, 10 Oct 2023 09:35:18 GMT

How To Make Your Hair Grow More Quickly

Many of us dream of having long lustrous tresses, but growing your hair can be a frustratingly slow process. The average person will manage hair growth of about half an inch a month, but it’s also normal to shed between 50-100 hairs a day. The rate of hair growt h can also be affected by factors such as age, illness, stress, and diet.

However there are some steps you can take to boost your journey to lovely longer locks. Here are some top tips.

Get regular trims

Getting your hair trimmed won’t directly affect the rate of growth, but it will remove untidy split ends that can lead to breakages and loss of volume. Split ends that are left in place will eventually travel up the hair shaft, making your hair look frizzy and dull.

Eat a protein and vitamin rich diet

Protein is the building block of healthy hair, so it’s important to get plenty of nutritious foods such as eggs, oily fish, and lean meats in your diet. Beans, nuts, whole grains and pulses are good sources of protein for vegetarians and vegans.

Vitamins and minerals are also essential to maintain healthy hair growth, particularly vitamins A, C, E, zinc, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids. You could consider taking a multivitamin supplement to boost your intake.

Keep heat styling to a minimum

Heat styling tools damage your hair, increasing the risk of breakage and making it look frizzy. When you do style your hair, always use a heat protecting product and set the styling tool at a lower temperature.

Avoid harsh colourants

Blonde highlights can be a mood-booster but lightening hair requires the use of harsh chemicals. These can cause damage to the hair cuticle, making it weak and brittle. If you want to change the colour of your hair, try going a shade or two darker instead.

Don’t over wash your hair

It’s best to only wash your hair two or three times a week at the most, because otherwise you will strip it of the natural oils that help to keep it healthy and hydrated. Once a week, use a deep conditioning mask for extra protection against dryness and breakages.

Stimulate your scalp

Stimulate your scalp through regular brushing and scalp massage. This stimulates the blood flow to the hair follicles, promoting faster growth.

Manage stress

Stress can cause the hair growth cycle to enter a dormant state as the body’s resources are diverted to other areas. This may result in noticeably thinning hair as the hairs we shed every day are not being replaced with new growth.

The good news is that this type of hair loss is usually temporary and normal growth should resume once the stressful episode has passed. Practising stress management techniques such as yoga or aerobic exercise can help to promote overall well-being as well as ensure consistent rates of hair growth.

If you are looking for hair extensions in Brentwood, Essex, please contact us today .

6 Hair Washing And Conditioning Mistakes You May Be Making

Fri, 29 Sep 2023 12:42:12 GMT

6 Hair Washing And Conditioning Mistakes You May Be Making

Washing and conditioning hair is a regular part of our health and beauty routine, and it might seem to be a straightforward process. However, many people make some common mistakes that can affect the overall result and may mean that their hair does not look or feel as good as it could. Here are some top tips for beautiful freshly washed hair.

Using water that is too hot

Hot water can irritate the scalp and cause it to feel dry and itchy. It can also damage the strands of your hair, leaving them brittle and prone to breakage. Instead, use lukewarm water to help preserve the moisture levels in your hair.

Using too much shampoo

Shampoo is an essential step to remove oils and dirt, despite recent TikTok trends such as No-Poo. However, using too much can strip away essential nutrients and irritate your scalp. Aim to use a quantity about the size of a 50p coin for best results. Cheaper shampoos can contain harsh ingredients that dry your hair, so it’s worth investing in a quality product.

Lather the shampoo in the palms of your hands with a little water, and then gently massage it into your scalp and roots of your hair where it is most needed for at least one minute, and then rinse thoroughly before applying conditioner.

Applying conditioner when your hair is too wet

If you layer conditioner onto very wet hair, most of it will slide off and be wasted. Therefore you should always gently squeeze your hair to remove the excess water once you have rinsed away the shampoo. This will allow the conditioner to coat the hair cuticles properly and leave them feeling soft and smooth when your hair is dry.

Applying conditioner to the roots

Unless your hair is exceptionally dry and damaged, there is no need to apply conditioner to the roots. The hair here is newer and softer, and it is also more prone to gathering oils from the scalp. If you have fine hair, putting conditioner too near the roots will leave it looking flat and dull. Just focus on the mid lengths and ends where it’s most needed.

Rinsing too soon

Conditioner needs at least two or three minutes to sink in and properly penetrate the hair cuticles, so leave a sufficient gap between applying it and rinsing it off.

Not rinsing properly

It’s important to rinse your hair thoroughly to remove all the excess product, otherwise your hair will look greasy and have no bounce or shine. Note the texture of your hair as you rinse and wait until it no longer feels slippery to the touch. Gently tease the hair with your hands as you rinse to ensure that all the layers are exposed to the water.

If you are interested in an Essex blow dry course, please get in touch with us today .

Top Skincare and Beauty Tips To Embrace Autumn In Style

Tue, 12 Sep 2023 14:37:14 GMT

Top Skincare and Beauty Tips To Embrace Autumn In Style

The crisp fresh days of autumn are creeping up on us, and now is an ideal time to adapt your beauty routine in readiness for the new season. This means giving your hair and skin a little extra TLC and refreshing your makeup palette . Here are some tips to keep you looking and feeling fabulous this autumn.

Switch to a more hydrating moisturiser

Your skin may be feeling the toll of the summer sun, and now the cooler temperatures will exacerbate any dryness. Therefore autumn is a good time to switch from lighter serums to thicker moisturising lotions and balms.

If you are starting to notice fine lines, it may be worth investigating a night cream with hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, or retinoids that boost collagen production and help to keep the skin looking dewy and youthful.

Apply an intensive conditioning mask to your hair

Sun, sea and chlorine from swimming pools can leave hair feeling dry after the summer, and the coming colder weather and central heating will increase any tendency to frizziness. Using a hydrating hair mask once a week will help to lock in moisture and keep your hair feeling soft and shiny.

If possible, give your hair a break from heated styling tools for a few weeks to allow it to recover fully from heat damage and ensure it’s looking its vibrant best for the new season.

Pamper your hands

Our hands are often the first areas to show signs of ageing and wear as they are frequently exposed to water and the elements. Invest in an intensive hand cream to keep on your desk and by your bedside so that you can top them up with moisture on a regular basis.

If you are prone to very dry hands with cracked skin or eczema, try using a heavier emollient at night, and pop on a pair of cotton gloves to protect your sheets.

Embrace a warmer makeup palette

To keep your makeup look on-trend, switch from the cooler pastel tones of summer to a warmer palette. Swap shimmery glosses for velvety matte textures for lips, and try out some bolder colours if you prefer.

Monochrome palettes, where you use the same colour on your lips, cheeks, and eyes, is set to be a big trend for autumn and saves you buying separate products, as one multi-tasking product can do it all.

Top up on nutrients

Diet is the key to sustaining healthy hair and skin, so make sure that you are getting all your essential nutrients, minerals and vitamins with plenty of seasonal produce. Carrots are an excellent source of vitamin A, which helps to protect the skin from damage and helps cuts to heal faster. They are easy to eat when grated in salads or added to stews.

Apples are a great source of antioxidants and B vitamins that help to combat skin irritations and keep your complexion glowing, and they are a fresh and delicious snack at this time of year.

If you are looking for hair extensions in Brentwood Essex, please get in touch with us today .

Quick Makeup Hacks For A Polished Look Every Day

Fri, 25 Aug 2023 14:54:13 GMT

Quick Makeup Hacks For A Polished Look Every Day

Have you ever wondered why a friend or work colleague always manages to look perfectly polished no matter how often you see them? Maybe you think that achieving the same result is impossible if you have a whirlwind schedule, but with a few simple makeup hacks, it’s totally possible to look polished in a matter of minutes. Here are a few tips.

Swap foundation for a tinted moisturiser

Applying foundation well can be a tricky business, as it needs to be carefully blended around your features to ensure an even appearance with no tide marks or clogged patches. Instead, swap your regular base for a light tinted moisturiser. This can be applied to the whole face in a matter of seconds, and doesn’t need to be blended.

If you have any particular blemishes or dark areas under your eyes, cover them up with a few dabs of concealer and blend the edges with a brush.

Tame your brows

Neat eyebrows are key to a well groomed look, so use a brow gel and brush them over. If your brows are on the sparse side, fill them in with a pencil or powder. This will give them definition and help to perfectly frame your face. If you want to save time every morning, you could consider microblading for your brows.

Microblading is a type of semi-permanent cosmetic tattoo, without the pain of regular tattooing. It uses very fine needles to deposit pigment into your skin that resembles eyebrow hairs. It’s ideal if you have thin eyebrows and want to create more shape and definition without all that extra work.

Lashings of mascara

Mascara instantly lifts your eyes, making them look larger and more defined, so don’t be tempted to skip this step. For best results, rest your elbow on an even surface and use the hand on the same side of your eye. This will give you a more controlled movement and help you to shape the lashes in the natural direction of growth.

If the lashes look clogged, comb them through with a clean mascara wand to remove the excess and neaten them up. If you have time, apply a second coat for that extra wow-factor. Unless you are a real whizz, skip eyeliner because it can be tricky to get right at the best of times and you will probably end up wiping it off and wasting precious time!

Give your cheeks a healthy glow

Apply a confidence-boosting sweep of blusher or bronzer across the apples of your cheeks (smile!) for some instant radiance. Don’t get bogged down with complicated contouring techniques; these are definitely best left to those days when you have plenty of time on your hands…

Wrap it up with a lip colour

Finally, apply a lip colour to really bring this fast-forward polished look together. If you are really squeezed for time, simply slick on a coat of tinted lip gloss.

When you are done, spritz your face with a setting spray to help you stay looking fabulous all day long.

If you really want to take your skills to the next level, why not brush up with a 1 week makeup cours e!

How To Choose A Hairstyle That Suits You

Tue, 15 Aug 2023 14:49:41 GMT

How To Choose A Hairstyle That Suits You

The way we wear our hair is a key part of our identity. However, it is not always easy to decide which hairstyle might suit us best. It can be tempting to copy a hairdo that looks amazing on your favourite celebrity, but it might not be quite right for you. Here are some points to bear in mind before your trip to the hairdresser.

What is your hair type?

To some extent, your natural hair type can be overcome with all the brilliant variety of styling tools and techniques that we have at our disposal today. However, it can be much easier to work with your natural hair type to save a lot of time and heat damage on a daily basis.

What is your face shape?

The shape of your face is a key factor in determining which hairstyles might suit you best. A simple way to check this is to tie your hair back and take a selfie. Then use a photo editing tool to trace around your face to define the shape. If it’s roughly the same width and length, then you probably have a round or square shaped face.

If your face is tapered from a wider forehead to a narrower chin, then you are likely to have a heart shaped face. If your face is longer in length than width and has an equally balanced forehead and chin, then you have an oval or rectangular face shape.

Square faces tend to have a strong jawline and broad forehead, so a centre parted style can offset these to give a flattering appearance. If you want a shorter cut, consider having some layers to help soften up the effect.

Round faces are well suited to layered or choppy styles that can help add some shape, such as a pixie crop or a long fringe with layers. Meanwhile, heart shaped faces can be balanced out with bob cuts or shoulder length hair.

Oval faces are able to carry off a number of different hairstyles. If you have longer hair, the butterfly cut with long layers that frame the face can work very well. However, unless your hair is naturally thick and straight, it does take quite a lot of work to get this style looking its best.

Hair that is naturally wavy or curly can help to soften up strong features, so if you have this type of hair work with it rather than opt to straighten it out. If you have naturally straight hair and a rectangular shaped face, avoid wearing it too long and unlayered as this can elongate the face further.

What is your style and personality?

Consider too whether a particular style works with who you are. For example, if you enjoy being the centre of attention then you may well disregard all of these suggestions and go for a really daring look. If you are someone who enjoys following fashion trends, then a versatile cut that will allow you to change your look regularly will work for you.

If your style is generally low-key, you may go for a flattering but low maintenance look.

Looking for an Essex blow dry course? Please get in touch with us today .

3 Quick And Easy Work Hairstyles When You Are In A Rush

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 14:47:09 GMT

3 Quick And Easy Work Hairstyles When You Are In A Rush

If you need to look presentable for a day at the office but you’re running short on time, the last thing you want to do is attempt a complicated hairstyle. Maybe you’ve just finished your morning gym workout or cycled to work, and your hair needs some attention before you set foot in the office, but you don’t have a whole array of tools and products to help.

Not many of us are blessed with the sort of hair that looks fabulous after a quick brush, and some people with longer hair need to have it in a neat and tidy style for health and safety reasons at work. Here are a few ideas for simple yet sleek work hairstyles.

The scarf ponytail

If you haven’t got time to wash medium or longer lengths of hair and it’s in a frizzy and rebellious mood, then simply fix it back in a ponytail and tie a patterned or colourful scarf around it.

Take a regular square scarf and fold it from corner to corner to form a triangular shape, and then pull the corner to the centre. Roll the scarf from bottom to top, and then tie it with a single knot around your ponytail. This adds interest to your look and also disguises less than perfect condition hair.

The low bun

A low bun is the ultimate sleek and simple hairstyle for work. Simply pull your hair back into a ponytail and secure at the base of your neck. Divide the ponytail into two sections, and then wrap it around the ponytail band and tuck it into the base. Slide in some bobby pins to help keep it secure.

Finish the look off with a spritz of hairspray to tame any frizz and stop it from slipping out of place. If you have some extra time, pull out a few strands to frame your face and soften up the look a little. You could add a decoration such as a flower or a colourful hair band for a more finished look.

The half-up

Half-up, half down ponytails are practical and still feel feminine. At the basic level, all you need to do is simply comb back the upper half of your hair from your forehead and fix it with a decorative clip or a band, leaving the lower section loose. It works well when your hair is reasonably clean but you haven’t got time for a longer styling session.

It’s also a great style for curly hair that tends to be a little bushy and difficult to manage. However, it’s a super versatile style that suits just about anybody with shoulder length hair or longer. You can pull out pieces to frame your face, or backcomb the top section to add some extra height.

For days when you have a bit more time, try adding a small braided section on either side of your head.

Interested in blowdry lessons in Essex? Please get in touch with us today .

Top Four Makeup Trends Of The Summer So Far

Fri, 21 Jul 2023 10:52:37 GMT

Top Four Makeup Trends Of The Summer So Far

There's no time like summer to rethink your makeup routine, when you want to achieve that healthy outdoor glow to get you in the mood for a holiday or a special event. As the weather is proving somewhat unreliable, there’s plenty you can do to create a beautiful summer look with a few key makeup trends this year. Here’s a quick round up.

The latte makeup trend

Like so many trends in recent years, the latte trend has been fuelled by Tik Tok. As the name suggests, it’s all about achieving soft hues of warm neutrals and browns with a smooth rich texture. The exact shades you use will depend on the natural skin tone you already have; pick a warm colour that is one or two shades darker than your natural colouring.

Avoid using pink or yellow based blushers and foundation, but stick to shades of light caramel or bronze that give you a warm glowy complexion. Complement the look with neutral brown eye makeup, swapping out black mascara and eyeliner for bronze or dark brown. Add just a tint of warm neutral gloss to your lips to finish off the look.

Mermaidcore

Mermaidcore is a whole style subculture that is making a splash in the mainstream waters this summer. It’s inspired by the original sirens of the sea, with shades of aquamarine and shimmery finishes. There’s no need to invest in a lot of new products; simply playing around with what you already have should enable you to achieve this look pretty easily.

Pick eyeshadows in shades of blue or green with a slightly iridescent texture, and combine it with soft pastel tones on your lips and cheeks. Complement the look with crochet tops, jewellery pieces with pearlescent textures, and hair set in loose tumbling waves.

Barbiecore

The Barbiecore trend has been bubbling away for a couple of years now, but with the movie finally hitting the screens in the UK this summer, expect this look to peak over the next couple of months. The juggernaut marketing campaign has been hard to ignore, with adorable stills of Margot Robbie in fluffy pink and glittery make up.

If you like your make up a little on the OTT side, then this is definitely the trend for you! Combine shimmering pink eyeshadow with long curled black eyelashes and defined lash lines. Finish the look with hot pink lips and nails. It’s a fantastic excuse to abandon all restraint and unapologetically celebrate your femininity.

Retro 90s makeup

The 1990s are having a bit of a revival this summer, with Britpop bands Pulp and Blur making successful comeback tours, and grunge and cult TV shows such as Buffy the Vampire Slayer gaining a following among the younger generations. It was inevitable that some of the make up styles from this era would soon begin to re-emerge.

To go all-out retro, go for a skinny eyebrow (or as near as you dare), and work a frosted lip with a stronger outline colour. Finish off with plenty of black eyeliner.

If you are looking for microblading in Essex , please get in touch today

4 Top Tips And Tricks For Styling Out A Bad Hair Day

Fri, 30 Jun 2023 11:27:38 GMT

We often imagine we will spend the summer with naturally highlighted, glossy hair that has had time to recover from the harsh effects of winter central heating. However, in reality humid air and hot sunny weather can leave us with hair that is frizzy and difficult to manage. This is especially frustrating when we are in a rush but need to look well groomed.

If you have been having your share of bad hair days recently and don’t have time for long styling sessions, here are some quick tips that can turn a wild mane into a workable daytime look.

Fix it in a top knot

If you have medium length or long hair, then the top knot is a great go-to style when you just can’t do anything else with your hair. It can be styled to look chic or casual, depending on what the day ahead holds for you, and how much time you have available.

The best thing is, a top knot is actually better if your hair is not freshly washed, otherwise it will be too soft and slippy. If necessary, take out any oiliness around the roots with a dry shampoo. This will also help to create some extra volume and texture if your hair is very fine. If your hair is frizzy, smooth it out with a few drops of serum or gel.

First, pull your hair up into a high ponytail and fix it with a band. For a more casual look, pull out a few locks to frame your face, or leave it all scraped back for a chic and sleek look. If your hair is fine, you could backcomb the ponytail a little to give it a fuller appearance.

If you have very long hair, divide the ponytail in two and twist the sections together in a loose pleat. Then simply twist the whole ponytail and wrap it around the base to create a knot, and fix it with bobby pins. Finish off with a blast of hairspray to help everything stay in place.

Braids

Another quick fix for medium to longer hair is braids. This disguises frizz, oiliness, or flat and dull hair. There are multiple ways to braid your hair, from a simple side swept plait to a Dutch braid, a French plait, or a fishtail plait. These are techniques that are perhaps best learnt from watching rather than reading, so look up a few YouTube demos for some inspiration.

Accessories

Attractive accessories can help to divert the attention away from your hair, such as wide headbands or colourful patterned scarves. If all else fails, you could always wear a hat! If it is warm and sunny outside, a wide brimmed hat will also help to keep your cool and prevent your hair from suffering UV damage which can make it dry and brittle.

Heated styling tools

The use of heat should be kept to a minimum to avoid drying out your hair, but hair straighteners really do work well to iron out frizz. Make sure you use a heat protecting product first.

If you are looking for hair loss treatment in Essex, please get in touch today .

4 Essential Tips To Prepare For Your First Salon Spray Tan

Tue, 13 Jun 2023 10:32:33 GMT

4 Essential Tips To Prepare For Your First Salon Spray Tan

Everyone likes to look their best, especially in summer time when our calendar is packed with weekends away and days out. One of the best ways to give yourself an instant boost is to have a good quality spray tan. This is much safer than exposing your skin to harmful UV rays, and modern products can give you a very natural looking sun-kissed glow.

Long gone are the days when fake tans made you look blotchy, streaky, and slightly orange. With the right preparation, you can get a flawless finish that complements your natural skin tone. If you have never had a professional salon tan before, here’s some tips on what to expect and how to get the most out of your experience.

Prepare you skin first

For the best results, exfoliate your skin to remove dead cells and smooth out any rough areas. This will ensure that your tan goes on evenly and has a flawless finish. If you choose to remove your body hair, wax or shave at least one day before so that the tanning solution can soak straight into your skin rather than coating the hairs.

Protect your nails with a clear coat of varnish to prevent them from being stained. Remember not to wear foundation on the day of your appointment, as this will prevent the tanning lotion from being absorbed on your face. The same goes for body lotion or other products: these will act as a barrier on your skin.

If necessary the salon should be able to provide you with a cleanser or wipes to remove any other products such as deodorant that you might have applied to your skin.

Tie long hair up and remove all jewellery

To avoid getting any lotion in your hair and having missed patches around your face and upper body area, tie back long hair as neatly as possible. Remember to remove all your jewellery beforehand.

During your tan

Your therapist will provide you with disposable underwear should you wish to wear it, and give instructions on how to stand. They should also consult you about how deep you want the tan to look. It’s best to choose a shade that complements your natural colouring, rather than going several shades darker in one go.

After your tan

It’s best to wear loose dark coloured clothing to your appointment to avoid the possibility of the tanning rubbing off and spoiling the finish, as well as your outfit. Remember that this applies to footwear too—pumps or sandals are best to avoid any marks around your ankles.

If rain is forecast, take an umbrella to keep yourself completely dry and avoid the possibility of the tan running and leaving streak marks.

Depending on the brand of tanning lotion used, you may be advised to wait 6-8 hours before showering. If you choose to go to bed before showering, wear long sleeves or protect your bed sheets with towels.

The next day you can enjoy looking healthy and naturally kissed!

If you are looking for microblading treatments in Brentwood, please get in touch today .

6 Essential Tips To Make Your Hair Look Fuller

Tue, 16 May 2023 14:50:48 GMT

6 Essential Tips To Make Your Hair Look Fuller

Hair that is full of natural volume and bounce is the result most of us aspire to when we want to look our best. However, if your hair is on the thin side or you have been struggling with hair loss, you may find this look difficult to achieve. Here are some well known tips and tricks you can try that may help to give limp locks a bit of extra oomph.

Start with a good haircut

Long hair that is cut to the same length can look flat and weighed down, particularly if you have fine hair without any natural wave. Ask your hairdresser to cut in some layers or feathering around your face to create some extra thickness and movement.

Use the right products

Avoid using heavy conditioners and styling treatments on your hair that will cause it to look dull and flat. Instead, look for a volumising shampoo that will help to plump your hair at the roots, and a lightweight conditioner that you can apply to the ends of your hair only.

After washing your hair, work a volumising mousse through it from root to tip. This will give some extra body and help to tame any frizz. Avoid using heavier serums, creams, and gels.

Dry to uplift the roots

If you are letting your hair dry naturally, flip your head upside down and use your fingers to tease out the roots. If you are using a hair dryer, spritz your hair through with a heat protection spray first. Then flip your hair over and dry upwards from the roots until it is semi dry.

Resume an upright head position to blow dry the rest of your hair in sections, using a round brush to lift from the root as you go along. If you want to add some extra lift, then you could even set your hair in velcro rollers for an hour or so.

After your hair is dry, you could add a little hairspray or texturising spray to help the volume last, but be careful not to overdo it.

Try changing your parting

If you usually have a centre parting, simply flipping your parting onto the opposite side can give the impression of fuller hair.

Backcomb to create extra height

There are various backcombing techniques that can be used to create some extra height around the crown, which can be effective if you want to create a stylish ponytail or updo.

Use a bristle brush to hold up sections of the hair vertically, and push down from behind. Avoid doing this every day as you might damage your hair, but for a special occasion when you want your features to look nicely framed in a photograph it works rather well.

Investigate salon volumising hair treatments

Hair and beauty salons often offer special treatments for women who have thinning hair, such as a mesh that is fitted over the scalp to add extra hair.

If you are looking for hair loss treatment in Essex, please get in touch today .

5 Wedding Hair Ideas For 2023

Thu, 27 Apr 2023 12:11:21 GMT

5 Wedding Hair Ideas For 2023

The wedding season will soon be here and one of the key dilemmas facing brides up and down the country never changes: what shall I do with my hair? The hairstyle you choose for your big day may be influenced by the style of your dress, the overall theme or vibe of your wedding, and what type of hair you have.

The past few years have seen a lot of flux and change in the way we get married, and this means that there are more choices than ever before. There’s no right or wrong when it comes to how you want to style your wedding, but if you are in need of a little hair-spiration, here are a few ideas.

The return of the updo

A high updo was once the go-to wedding hairstyle, but more relaxed and informal trends have overtaken it in the past few years. However, since Kim Kardashian adopted the so-called ‘Barbie updo’ last year, the style has made a comeback. It is not the more formal 1990s version, but deliberately looser and messier.

The style particularly suits longer hair with a fringe or shorter pieces that can be pulled out to frame the face. Hot irons can be used to create waves to add some movement and texture. It is a style that can easily be perfected with a hair up lesson . It’s perfect if you want to show off the neckline of your dress or showcase a statement necklace.

The side sweep

For a twist on the classic loose waves, go for side swept curls. This is perfect if you want your hair length and colour to be displayed to full effect but also want to look polished. It also gives you a chance to add a decorative piece of hair jewellery on the swept back side or showcase a long earring.

The loose bun

A simple and elegant bun is a classic and easy to wear hairstyle that works for anyone with medium or long hair. If you want all the emphasis to be on your dress and jewellery, then this no-fuss hair will look sophisticated enough to carry you through the day. You can also dress it up with a statement hairpiece.

Centre parting

If you want to wear your hair down but also want a practical style that won’t be falling into your eyes at inconvenient times, then a simple centre parting that is tucked behind the ears is a great choice. It works well any hair length and type and suits most face shapes.

This style is ideal for showing off your facial features and ensuring all that careful wedding makeup works hard in your photographs. It also allows you to display some statement earrings if you choose.

A low chignon

The low chignon is a classic wedding style that works well for short to medium length hair. It’s less formal and sleek than a bun, looking at once elegant yet bohemian. It can be kept simple or dressed up with a pretty barrette clip to add the finishing touch.

The History Of Hair Salons Throughout The Ages

Sun, 16 Apr 2023 12:05:46 GMT

The History Of Hair Salons Throughout The Ages

Today, a visit to a hair and beauty salon is a regular date on the calendar for many of us. The range of state of the art treatments available expands every year, from laser technology to remove unwanted body hair, to the latest hair extension techniques.

Spending an hour or two being pampered by professionals and leaving the salon knowing that you are looking your very best is a sure-fire mood booster! During the pandemic when hairdressers and beauty parlours were forced to shut their doors, many of us realised just how important a decent haircut or an eyebrow wax is to our sense of wellbeing.

Here’s a look at how the modern beauty industry developed into the sleek and sophisticated salons of today.

The earliest hairdressers can be traced back to Ancient Egypt, where historians believe women used natural henna dyes to colour their hair and cover up grey. They also made conditioning treatments from a mixture of almond and castor oil and scented with frankincense.

However, it was the Ancient Romans who really laid the foundations from which many hair and beauty traditions began. In early Rome, the majority of people styled their own hair out of necessity, but as the Empire grew, hairstyles became more distinctive among the wealthier classes and were an important part of personal identity, much like they are today.

In fact, in Roman society, hairstyles were an important indicator of wealth and status. The more elaborate the hairstyle, the more time and money the person had to spend on luxuries. Natural hairstyles were a sign of an uncultured person; the only exception was young girls who were allowed to have loose flowing locks.

Mature Roman women would often wear their hair parted and braided or wrapped, and would decorate it with floral crowns for special occasions. For men, short, well groomed hair was a sign that they were in possession of slaves to tend to their hair for them.

Later, barbers set up business within general shops or market stalls. They become popular places not just for grooming, but also as social spaces where men would gather to exchange the latest gossip and news. The Romans are also believed to have developed the first curling tongs, which were hollow metal tubes heated on an open fire.

During the mediaeval era, the emphasis on personal hygiene and appearance fell away, perhaps because of the devastating effect of the bubonic plague, which was thought to have been spread through water. Therefore, public baths and grooming parlours were uncommon.

By the 18th century, there was renewed interest in fashion and style, and hairdressing started to become a serious business. The world’s first hairdryer was invented in France in 1890, although it was a cumbersome device that could only be used in a salon. However, it gave hairdressers much more control and flexibility over the styles they could create.

During the twentieth century, we have seen the rise of the celebrity hairdresser such as John Freida and Vidal Sassoon. Nowadays, hairstyles are more varied than ever before, with a huge choice of cuts, colours, and styles available.

If you are looking for microblading treatments in Brentwood, please get in touch today .

What Are The Benefits Of A Brazilian Blow Dry?

Sun, 26 Mar 2023 15:48:07 GMT

What Are The Benefits Of A Brazilian Blow Dry?

A Brazilian blow dry is the answer to the prayers of anyone who struggles with frizzy and unruly hair. It can transform brittle and flyaway hair into a sleek and smooth mane for up to four months at a time. Here’s a look at how it works and who it’s suitable for.

How does a Brazilian blow dry work?

The key ingredient in the Brazilian blow dry is keratin. This is a natural protein that is found in our hair, skin, and nails, and it helps to keep your hair looking healthy and gives it the strength to resist styling damage. During a Brazilian blow dry, liquid keratin is applied to the hair and forms a protective barrier around the hair cuticle.

Hair that is treated with keratin is less likely to break and will look smoother and shinier.

Who is a Brazilian blow dry suitable for?

Keratin treatments are suitable for most hair types. It does not leave the hair completely straight, but it will have a relaxing effect on very tightly curled hair. People with wavy or curly hair often struggle with frizzy texture and a bushy shape, and a blow dry with keratin will help to reduce volume and create a sleeker finish.

Even if you have naturally straight hair, you may notice that it is prone to frizz on damp drizzly days. The treatment will leave your hair softer and more manageable, and it will take you much less time to style your hair in the mornings.

What happens during the treatment?

The hair is thoroughly washed before the treatment is applied and left to work for up to 20 minutes. The hair is then blow dried and straightened with hot irons to seal the treatment in. Finally, the hair is washed, conditioned, and dried once more. The results should last for between 3 to 6 months.

If you are looking for a blow dry bar in Essex, please get in touch with us today .

How Can You Minimise The Appearance Of Scars?

Mon, 13 Mar 2023 15:03:55 GMT

How Can You Minimise The Appearance Of Scars?

Scars can be a source of mental distress, making us feel less confident and affecting quality of life. The good news is that it is possible to minimise the appearance of marks left as a result of trauma such as cuts, burns, acne, or stretch marks.

Many people cover facial scars with makeup, which can work well. However it is time consuming and temporary, and there are more long-lasting alternatives available to camouflage. One of the most effective modern treatments for scars is MCA dry needling (Multitrepannic collagen actuation).

This is a pioneering non-surgical solution that can reduce the appearance of scars and aid the natural healing process. It works by using a medical tattooing device to deliberately cause minor puncture wounds to the skin. This stimulates the production of collagen and elastin, which are proteins that strengthen the skin.

The extra proteins work to give the skin a smoother appearance and the scar will be flatter and less visible. The treatment also increases the production of melanin, which is a pigment that gives our skin its natural tone. This means that over time, white scars will start to regain colour and blend in better with the surrounding skin.

Everyone responds differently to the treatment, so it is not possible to say how many repeat sessions will be needed for the best results. Some patients see an improvement after just one treatment, while others benefit most from three to six sessions at six week intervals.

The treatment can be carried out at a beauty clinic. Prior to your first appointment, your therapist will arrange a free consultation to make sure that you are suitable for the treatment. It is not recommended for scars under one year old or for keloid scarring, unless the candidate has a doctor’s letter of approval.

3 Top Wedding Makeup Trends For 2023

Tue, 21 Feb 2023 16:08:26 GMT

3 Top Wedding Makeup Trends For 2023

It is sure to be another busy year for weddings, as many couples who postponed their nuptials during the pandemic finally tie the knot. Brides may be wondering what the latest makeup trends are, after such a strange few years when many of the usual wedding customs were changed. Here’s a look ahead to some popular looks for 2023.

The natural look is here to stay

During the pandemic, those weddings that did go ahead were smaller out of necessity, and in many cases this created a more informal atmosphere to the big day. Many brides opted for more natural looking makeup to reflect the occasion, and this led to the popularity of the fresh faced look, rather than a solid matt finish.

To achieve this look, use a light foundation with a hint of bronzer and blusher for a subtle glow. Apply just enough makeup to your eyes and lips to accentuate your best features, but avoid the heavy and overdone approach. This means using softer colours and mascara rather than obviously fake lashes.

Embellishments

If you want more of a wow factor to your wedding makeup, you will love the trend for face embellishments that has been popularised by stars such as Taylor Swift and the TV show Euphoria. Small dainty face jewels in the shape of stars, flowers, or crescent moons can be applied to the under eye area, the cheekbones, or the collarbones.

Purple as the new pink

Purple as a makeup colour may seem a little scary, but it can work as a brilliant alternative to pink, especially on darker skin tones. Apply a sweep of blusher to contour the face, or use a multipurpose product to add colour to the eyes and lips.

If you are looking for more wedding hair & make-up tips, please get in touch with us today .

5 Tips To Keep Your Skin Glowing In Winter

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 15:04:58 GMT

5 Tips To Keep Your Skin Glowing In Winter

In the depth of winter, it can be difficult to keep your skin looking fresh and glowing. Dry skin conditions can become worse, and if you are prone to acne and breakouts, you may notice that these become worse too. Here are some tips that can help you take the best care of your complexion at this time of year.

Avoid long hot showers

It might be tempting to linger in a hot shower on cold winter mornings, but this is bad news for your skin. It can strip out the essential oils, leaving it feeling tight and dehydrated. This makes dry skin even worse, and it can exacerbate sebum production to compensate for the loss of moisture. This makes acne breakouts more likely.

Short showers of five minutes or cool baths are the kindest option to keep your skin soft and healthy in wintertime.

Use the right moisturisers

It’s important to moisturise regularly, even if you do have oily skin. Choose products that are labelled non-comedogenic, as this means that they will not block your pores. If your skin is drier, it may be tempting to use thick heavy creams, but in fact it can be more effective to apply your usual cream in two or three thin layers.

Check your vitamin D levels

The level of sunlight we are exposed to is lower in winter, and it is estimated that almost half of people in the UK are deficient in vitamin D during the winter months. The official government advice is that everyone should consider taking a vitamin D supplement during winter. This can help your skin, teeth, and bones to stay healthy.

It’s also possible to up your vitamin D levels by including oily fish, such as salmon and mackerel, and eggs yolks and red meat in your diet.

Use gentle cleansers rather than soap

Avoid harsh perfumed soaps, especially on your face. Either use soaps that contain moisturiser, or switch to cleansers, which are gentler on the skin. Wash your face no more than twice a day, and limit exfoliating your skin to once or twice a week.

Gentle exfoliation is helpful to remove dead skin cells and keep your skin looking fresh, but overdoing it will irritate your skin in winter.

Keep up with your exercise routine

In winter, it is easy to become less active as the colder weather makes it more tempting to curl up on the sofa rather than get out and about. We all know that exercise is essential for a healthy cardiovascular system and it is also a great boost for mental health. It also helps to keep our skin healthy, by increasing blood flow.

Good circulation means that essential nutrients and oxygen are being carried to your skin, and this all helps to keep it looking fresh and dewy. Exercise also helps to reduce stress, which is a known acne trigger, so you may notice that your skin breaks out less.

If you are interested in MCA treatment for scars, please visit our website today .

4 New Year’s Beauty Resolutions For A Glowing 2023

Mon, 30 Jan 2023 12:54:48 GMT

4 New Year’s Beauty Resolutions For A Glowing 2023

At this time of year, many of us are doing a little reflecting and aiming to improve our lives in some way. As well as goals such as eating more healthily and exercising more, another common resolution is to overhaul our beauty routines. However, even the most determined of us can have trouble sticking to a time-consuming routine.

Instead, it may be best to introduce some small and easily achievable changes. Here are some of the best hair and skincare tips that don’t take hours and bring real results.

Rethink the products you currently use

Sometimes, we can buy the same beauty product year in year out, without considering if our needs have changed. Our skin and hair changes in texture as we get older, typically becoming drier or having less volume. New products may also have come onto the market that are more suitable to meet your needs.

Therefore, it’s worth making an assessment of the current health of your hair/skin/nails, and considering if the products you currently use are getting you the best results. Experimenting with a new hair mask or facewash will take up no extra time in your routine, but could bring great results.

Switch to an SPF moisturiser

One of the most vital pieces of skincare advice is to use a sun protection cream every day. This is because UVA rays are strong enough to cause damage to the skin all year round, whatever the weather. Most people only use sunscreen on very hot sunny days, but dermatologist advise using an SPF product every time you go outdoors.

To avoid adding another step into your skincare routine, look for moisturisers or tinted beauty balms that contain an SPF factor of at least 20. Some products can even be combined with more intensive pollution-blocking ingredients.

Fully remove your makeup before bed

Not cleansing your face free of make up properly at night is one of the worst enemies of fresh and clear looking skin. When the surface is clogged up with products, the natural renewal process that occurs overnight can’t take place properly. Dead skin cells remain trapped under the surface, creating a dull looking complexion.

A layer of foundation or cream that is not removed at night can also cause bacteria to build up on the skin, increasing the chances of acne breakouts. It may also lead to irritation, and will make any conditions such as eczema and rosacea worse. Leftover eye make up can lead to infections.

Therefore even if you have time for nothing else, always take two minutes to thoroughly cleanse your face at the end of the day.

Stick to regular hairdresser appointments

During the pandemic, many of us grew out our usual hairstyles, and may have got used to visiting the hairdressers less often. However, it can be counterproductive to leave your hair for too long between trims. The older hair at the ends will become more brittle and prone to splitting, making it difficult to achieve shiny healthy-looking locks.

If you are looking for microblading treatments in Brentwood, please get in touch today .

What Are The Most Popular Haircuts Of The Year?

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Tue, 17 Jan 2023 15:40:59 GMT

What Are The Most Popular Haircuts Of The Year?

It’s nearly the end of another year, and it’s been an interesting one for hair styles. There’s no one particular look that has predominated, and the classics such as a bob or pixie cut remain ever popular. However, there has been a revival of some much-loved 1970s styles this year, with a fresh twist. Here’s a look at a couple of big trends.

Beach waves

This style has become to go-look for celebs and girls about town, with loose waves which are an in-between stage between bouncy curls and straight hair. Perfect for the British climate, where drizzly days can ruin the texture of even the sleekest and smoothest of hair with annoying kinks and frizz.

It’s a relaxed low-key style that works on the beach, and still looks glam enough for evening events, so it’s not surprising that it has so many fans. It also flatters most people, and works well with different hair types and lengths. The look adds some natural bounce and volume to those will thinner hair, and tames more unruly locks.

To achieve the look, make sure that your hair is coated with plenty of heat protection, and section it off with distinct front, top, and bottom sections. Then take some curling irons, and wrap each of hair around the iron, holding in place for a few seconds. The tighter you wind the curls, the most pronounced the waves will be.

Hold it all in place with a spritz of hairspray and some serum to tame any frizz. If you don’t like to use heat styling tools, you could twist your hair into small buns over your scalp whilst it is wet, and then release them when it is dry—you should release a head of soft twirling waves!

The 70s BlowOut

The iconic 70s blow dry blew up during 2021, and its popularity shows no sign of waning this year. Think of Farrah Fawcett’s long feathered layers, and you get the idea. It’s been doing the rounds on TikTok for the past couple of years, introducing a new generation to the delights of the seventies…

It can seem like quite a difficult look to achieve, but it’s not all that complicated. However, it does require the right type of haircut in the first place: long layers and a long fringe, and it works better on people with thick hair.

If you want to have a go, wash your hair and apply plenty of heat protection. Divide your hair into sections, taking care to frame your face with an equal section at each side. Next, dry off each section using the nozzle attachment on your hairdryer—if your hair is naturally curly, you have to do a bit more work at this stage to achieve the straight look.

Next, take a large round brush, and curl the end of each section away from your face. For the front sections, flick the brush in the other direction to create those flippy layers. If you would like to brush up on your knowledge with hair extension training in Essex, please get in touch today .

What Is The Best Way To Deal With Stretch Marks?

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Wed, 11 Jan 2023 14:55:38 GMT

Stretch marks are a type of scarring which appear as lines or bands across the skin. They are the result of the collagen and elastin in the skin rupturing when the skin is stretched over a short period of time. Although they are harmless and present no threat to your physical health, stretch marks can make you feel self-conscious about your appearance.

What causes stretch marks?

The most common cause of stretch marks is sudden growth or weight gain, according to the NHS. They often appear around the stomach area of pregnant women, and can also appear during adolescence, especially when a sudden growth spurt occurs. Losing or gaining a lot of weight quickly can also lead to stretch marks.

You won’t inevitably have stretch marks if any of the above applies to you, because it seems as if there is a genetic influence to the condition—if a close family member has stretch marks, then you may be more prone to developing them yourself. It is thought that changes in hormones can also play a role, which is why women are more susceptible to them.

Stretch marks most often appear on the tummy. But can also develop on the chest, back, hips, thighs, or buttocks. The NHS notes that in rare cases, stretch marks are a symptom of Cushing’s syndrome. Other symptoms include a red puffy face, and uneven fat distribution, such as a larger torso, but thinner limbs. In this case you should consult a GP.

How can you treat stretch marks?

Stretch marks will flatten out and fade naturally over time, but they will usually leave permanent streaks on the skin, which may vary in intensity and colour, from dark brown, purple, red, or pink, usually depending on what your natural skin tone is.

There are various creams, gels, and lotions, which claim to treat or improve the appearance of stetch marks, but these do not give consistent results for everyone. Creams which contain retinoid may have some effect, because they stimulate collagen production, but you should avoid using them if you are pregnant, as they are harmful to the baby.

The most effective way to treat stretch marks is with a professional salon procedure. There are a few options, such as a chemical peel, light or laser treatments, or microdermabrasion. One of the most advanced modern techniques is known as MCA Dry Needling .

MCA stands for Multitrepannic collagen actuation, which is a form of collagen induction therapy. Tattoo needles are used to cause deliberate damage to the scarring area, which stimulates the skin’s natural healing and recovery process. It’s a treatment which can be carried out safely and effectively on most skin and scar types.

For best results, it is recommended that between three to six sessions are carried out, at intervals of six weeks apart. Stretch marks should be at least one year old before the start of the treatment, and keloid scars cannot be treated without a doctor’s letter of approval.

4 Simple Make Up Hacks To Get Through Party Season

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Mon, 19 Dec 2022 16:23:24 GMT

4 Simple Make Up Hacks To Get Through Party Season

At this time of year, we might be out and about more than usual, with our best party face forward! If you are trying to perfect the art of looking flawless even when you are pushed for time, here are a few hacks that could help you pull off that polished look in half the time.

Comb your eyebrows with a clear gel

Groomed eyebrows can really make your face look more put together and polished, but plucking and shaping every week can be really time consuming. You could lean in to your natural shape, and groom them with an eyebrow brush or even an old mascara wand, and some clear eyebrow gel.

For a longer term solution you could consider having a microblading treatment in Brentwood , which is where the brow shape is created using a semi-permanent tattoo method .

Stick to nude nail polish

Polished nails can really make you feel as though your look is properly finished, but applying strong colours in a hurry can lead to messy mistakes. If you are pushed for time, stick to a coat of clear or nude shades which look classy and are far more forgiving of errors.

Blend out your eyeliner with a cotton bud

Applying eyeliner well is one of the most difficult make up tricks to master. If you are in a rush, lean in to the smoky look by applying a soft kohl pencil to the lower lash line and sweeping a cotton bud over it. This will soften out the line, disguising any gaps or lack of accuracy. It’s also a more flattering look for most people.

Use a tinted moisturiser

Instead of applying foundation that requires careful blending around your features, use a tinted moisturiser instead. This will even out your skin tone and sink in more naturally than foundation. Dab some concealer in areas where you need a little extra coverage.

4 Hot TikTok Makeup Up Trends

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Tue, 06 Dec 2022 16:27:40 GMT

4 Hot TikTok Makeup Up Trends

TikTok has evolved over the past year from a teenage hangout to the go-to place for the latest tips and trends, including all the latest new beauty hacks and crazes. While some of the videos to go viral are decidedly dubious in their ‘advice’, some of them are down with the beauty zeitgeist. Here’s a look at some of the best new makeup trends.

Coquette makeup

The coquette aesthetic has grown out of the recent enthusiasm for combining the glamour and femininity of the past (think hit TV show Bridgerton, and the smouldering retro allure of the singer Lana del Ray). It’s about being grown up and confident in who you are, and not being afraid of embracing your inner love of Disney princesses.

To nail this look, pick soft warm shades of pink and mauve for lips, eyelids and cheeks, and go for a dewy skintone with glossy lips. Finish it off with long dark eyelashes, and well-defined eyebrows.

Barbiecore makeup

The Barbiecore look is for those who want to take the revival of the feminine aesthetic one step further. Inspired by the recent film starring Margo Robbie, the Barbiecore trend is what you assume it to be: recreating that famous doll face. If that sounds a bit too full-on for your taste, you could always pick and choose certain products or colours to give it a nod.

As you would expect, the look is built around the colour pink, with bright fuchsia lips and baby pink cheeks. If you are a fan of glittery eyelids and nails, you can knock yourself out. Top it off with a lash lengthening mascara, and a big bouncy blow-dry to match. You’re now all set as a perfect pouting Barbie girl!

Dark feminine aesthetic

For a more grown up take on the whole feminine vibe, you could have a flirtation with the dark feminine aesthetic.

This is all about taking control of the traditional ‘male gaze’ which has defined female beauty standards (Betty Friedan’s The Feminine Mystique and Naomi Wolf’s The Beauty Myth are obligatory reading for fans of this look), and reclaiming it as your own.

It’s a look with a nod to the goth and grunge trends of the 80s and 90s, with more sensuality and femininity added into the mix. Avoid soft peachy and pink shades, and embrace your natural skin tone with a colour matching foundation base. The key feature is ‘siren eyes’ which combine the smoky eye look with winged eyeliner.

Finish the look off with a lighter eyeshadow, full brows, and a bold red lip. It’s a maximalist look which works well for winter nights out.

Kidcore makeup

If the dark and brooding look is just not your thing, then you could embrace the alternative TikTok trend: kidcore. This is about not taking your look too seriously. Use bright neon colours and embellishments to create a fun playful vibe, which embraces the lighter side of life.

Top the look off with a high pony tail, or some braids. You could learn how to add some extra length to your tresses by taking a hair extension course .

Why Do We Love Braided Hair?

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Mon, 14 Nov 2022 12:53:10 GMT

Why Do We Love Braided Hair?

Braided hairstyles are more popular than ever, sported everywhere from primary school girls to rap stars and professional models. However, the history of hair braiding can be traced back for thousands of years. Here’s a look at how this iconic hairstyle developed over the centuries.

It’s at least 30,000 years old

There is a lot of debate around the cultural identity of hair braiding. However, its roots can be found across many cultures, with the earliest known example thought to be the Venus of Willendorf, a female figurine which was discovered in Austria in 1908, and is thought to date from around 25,000 to 30,000 years ago.

The social origins of hair braiding

Hair braiding is a naturally sociable activity, as it needs at least two people, and it takes some time to do. This lends itself to forming or strengthening social bonds, as generally the participants will chat to pass the time.

It was traditionally a skill that was passed down from generation to generation, as the older members of the family braided the hair of children or grandchildren, while the elder siblings watched and practiced on their younger siblings.

It’s a cross-cultural tradition

Examples of artworks depicting hair braiding have been found across societies in North Africa, Asia, Native America, and in Northern Europe. The braids appeared to serve different purposes in each society, however. In some African and Asian regions, it was thought that the pattern of the braids was related to a person’s tribe and social status.

In other cultures, braids may have simply been a way to keep long hair neat and tidy. In Northern Europe, loose flowing hair in women was considered immodest, so they would often tie it back in thick braids.

Hair can be a particularly emotive issue for people of African-American origin. Braids are a commonly adopted style to protect naturally thick and tightly curled hair from the effects of heat and humidity.

However, in Western societies such hair type has been a source of discrimination, so now many people of African heritage are reclaiming the hairstyle as part of their heritage.

It’s not just for humans!

Hair braiding skills are also prized in equestrian circles, as competition horses and ponies are usually required to have neatly plaited manes and tails. Some breeds of long-haired dog may also be showed with braids.

Different types of braids

There are many different types of braid, from the simple three-strand plait, to the French braid and the Dutch braid which are a little more complicated to master. However, there are plenty of online tutorials to help you practice.

Box braids are another classic type of braid, especially popular for afro-textured hair. The whole head is sectioned into squares and plaited individually. Hair extensions can be weaved into the braids for an extra eye-catching style.

Cornrow braids are popular across all genders. The hair is plaited very close to the head, to create neat rows. This looks super stylish, and it is also low maintenance, and protects the hair from pollutants and heat damage.

If you are interested in taking a hair extension course, please get in touch today .

Autumn Haircare Tips And Trends

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Tue, 11 Oct 2022 14:44:15 GMT

Autumn Haircare Tips And Trends

The long hot summer is slowly drawing to an end, and there is a definite nip in the air. Autumn is the perfect time to refresh our beauty routines and brush up on our hairstyles, after months of sun and swimming which may have left our tresses in less than perfect condition. Here are some tips and trends for autumn.

How to get the condition back in your hair

If your hair is looking a bit tired and frazzled after the summer, you could try a bonding product, which are designed to repair damaged cuticles and help prevent split ends. The latest generation of products are light and don’t leave a heavy build-up in your hair, which can weigh it down and make it look dull.

Leave your hair to air dry where possible, rather than use hair dryers and other heated styling products to give it a break. If you swim regularly, invest in a cap to protect your hair from the damaging effects of chlorine.

What we eat also affects the health of our hair. Essential fatty acids, particularly omega-3s, are important to keep your locks looking lustrous. Salmon, mackerel, and sardine, and herring are all rich in omega-3. Other good sources include walnuts, flax seeds, and soybeans.

Autumn hairstyles to try

Once your hair is looking its best again, you might decide it’s time for a trim, or even a complete restyle. After a summer of sweeping long hair back in a pony tail to keep cool, the new season can be a good chance to try out a different look. If you fancy a change, here’s a look at some new trends this autumn.

The Rachel 2.0

Back in the mid 90’s and early 00’s, the hot hairstyle was The Rachel. This was the shoulder-length choppy cut which framed Jennifer Aniston’s face in the hit TV show Friends. Bouncy and full, it suited most people and was quite easy to maintain. Now, a new version is back for the 20’s, according to Glamour magazine .

The newer version is more of a layered bob with flicky ends. It takes some serious blow drying skills to get this look right. Start by creating plenty of volume with a good shampoo, and smoothing out any frizz with a few drops of serum. Divide your hair into sections, and use a rounded brush, or a heated brush to dry each section.

Avoid pulling the hair too tightly, or the result won’t have that signature Rachel bounce. The style works with either a side or a centre part, so just go with whatever suits your face shape best.

70’s waves hair

If you prefer the softer look of loose waves to a more structured choppy look, then the 70’s is your spiritual decade. Big cascading waves of hair are in vogue this year, Glamour reports. If you don’t have naturally wavy hair, you can achieve this style with hot rollers, or by using a curling tong to create tumbling soft curls.

If you would like to take your skills one step further with a hair extension course, why not talk to us today !

What Is MCA Dry Needling?

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Fri, 30 Sep 2022 14:37:44 GMT

What Is MCA Dry Needling?

Gone are the days of having to live with scars, burns and other such marks on our bodies. We’re very lucky these days that there are all sorts of different treatment options available when it comes to aesthetics and, generally, there’s always something you can try to help you get the results you want.

If you do have scarred areas that you’re keen to address but aren’t sure where to turn first, MCA dry needling could be a particularly good choice , a form of collagen induction therapy that is very successful at improving the appearance of your skin.

It’s important not to confuse this kind of medical procedure with dermaroller treatments or microneedling. With this kind of dry needling, tattoo needles are used to deliver precise and targeted treatment to the desired area before scar repair serums are applied to aid the healing process of the cells.

You can treat most types of scars in this way, apart from newer ones less than two years old and keloid scars, which are raised and enlarged, appearing after minor skin damage such as a piercing or acne. If your scar is still pink or red, it could still be healing and it’s best not to consider treatment until the healing process is complete.

The required healing time post-treatment will vary from person to person, but typically sessions can be carried out every six weeks or so. People with hyperpigmentation may take longer to heal, as can those with weaker immune systems and older people, as well.

Treating hyperpigmented skin can also result in the client having dark pigment in the affected areas for a few months, which is something to bear in mind if you are considering dry needling at the moment.

If you’d like to find out more about this kind of procedure and what to expect during your appointment, get in touch with us today to see how we can help.

4 Secrets Of Top Make Up Artists

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Wed, 14 Sep 2022 16:12:40 GMT

When it comes to learning how to apply make-up, it can feel like a never-ending process of trial and error. There’s so much to learn about the different products and techniques, and the trends can change quickly. It’s also about learning what suits you and what doesn’t, which can often take a while, and changes as our age and personal style evolves.

There are times when you wish you had some inside knowledge which could speed the whole process up for you! What better than to pick the brains of professional make up artists, who have spent years honing their craft? Here’s some of their best tips.

Always moisturise before applying foundation

If you have oily skin which is prone to breakouts, you may not be in the habit of applying moisturiser very often. However, foundation will crease and go patchy if it is not applied to well moisturised skin. Look for a light, oil free moisturiser which is labelled as non- comedogenic, if your skin is oily.

Whatever your skin type, always wait five or 10 minutes after moisturising before you apply foundation, to let it sink in and avoid streaks and patchiness.

Pick one feature to emphasise

If you are doing your make up for a special occasion, it might be tempting to layer it all on to the max. However, full on eyes, lips, and cheeks can look too overdone, even for night time. Professional make up artists always pick one feature to emphasise, so that it provides a focal point in the face, and the rest of the make up is usually kept more subtle.

A full-on face might work in a photograph, but in real life it can look like a bit too busy and mask-like. So, just pick you favourite feature and get to work on that.

Use concealer as an eyeshadow primer

Using an eyeshadow primer helps the product to go on smoothly, and keeps it place for longer. It also evens up the skin tone on the eyelids, which can be patchy, due to the thin and delicate nature of the skin in this area. However, primer is yet another product that costs money, and clogs up your make up bag.

What many people don’t realise is that concealer works just as well as an eyeshadow primer, and is a product you are likely to already own. Light liquid versions work best. You just need to smooth one or two dabs from the inner to the outer corner of the eye, and blend it into the crease and up towards the brow area.

Warm up the tip of your eyeliner to soften it

Eyeliner pencils can be one of the trickiest makeup tools to master. Problems many people find is that the line is too broken, too harsh, or doesn’t stay in place. For a smooth, blendable line which stays in place and doesn’t make the eyes look hard, try warming up the tip in your hand for a few minutes first. You should find the liner is much easier to apply.

If you are looking for MCA treatment for scars, please get in touch today .

Microblading Eyebrows Led To A New Career!

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Sun, 28 Aug 2022 13:48:52 GMT

Microblading Eyebrows Led To A New Career!

A 60-year-old lady found the confidence to change career after having her eyebrows microbladed. The Guardian reports that Linda Parker had spent most of her life caring for other people, and when her daughter turned 18, she decided to do something for herself.

Stress had made her eyebrows become sparser over the years, until they were barely visible, and this was affecting her self-esteem. Well defined eyebrows add structure to our face, and frame the features, so it is no surprise that Linda felt strange without them.

Linda told the publication: “Having eyebrows back gave me the confidence to apply for another job. I definitely wouldn’t have done any of this otherwise. At every landmark age, there’s a natural inclination to think: “That bit’s passed me, now what’s going to happen?”

Microblading involves tattooing tiny feathery strokes into the brow area, to resemble realistic hair. Fine point needles and pigment are used to create a very realistic effect, and the colour and density can be altered depending on what result you want to achieve. It’s a semipermanent treatment, and the results last for about 12 to 18 months.

The treatment can be used to make sparse eyebrows look thicker and fuller, or just to tidy up the brow area so you don’t have the trouble of doing them as part of your makeup routine every morning.

Linda said that her new eyebrows made her life seem full of hope and possibilities, which she never thought she would have: ‘I’m never going to get rid of the wrinkles, but I’ve got a more defined and expressive face. I look what I would call normal again.’

She now works at an arts centre in Guildford, where she often meets and greets famous people at the stage door, a job she couldn’t have done without her new found self confidence in her appearance. What a lovely inspiring story!

If you are looking for microblading in Brentwood, please get in touch today .

Why Scar Treatment Can Make Your Wedding Day

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 10:20:47 GMT

Why Scar Treatment Can Make Your Wedding Day

If you are getting married soon, you will no doubt have a million and one things on your mind, not least every aspect of how you will look on your wedding day.

From the dress to shoes, hair and makeup, every bride will be trying to achieve the best possible look, with all those photos set to be taken to record the event for posterity.

However, that can cause a problem if you have any kind of facial scarring. Some are happy to bear these marks as war wounds of an accident from long ago, but for others these can be an embarrassment.

The question is what to do about them, with one option being to get scar treatment in Essex, involving collagen induction as tattoo needles are used to stimulate the area and encourage healing .

How to deal with any scar is a question that needs some consideration, of course. Not all are the same. As the NHS website noted, no scar can be removed completely, but the appearance can be minimised.

Scar treatment with collagen is one way of reducing it by encouraging healing, while others can involve more drastic and costly options not available on the NHS, such as plastic surgery or laser treatments. Another alternative is to use facial skin camouflage, a short-term fix for 2-3 days.

The key issue when dealing with scars is how prominent they are. Some are very small indeed and might not be noticed. Others are large and may defy simple treatments.

What is important, however, is not to take anyone’s word for it if they tell you there is nothing that can be done. There is usually a treatment that can be effective in at least minimising the visible effects of a scar, one that means it will barely be noticed by those present on your big day, still less show up in the photographs.

Should You Change Your Make-Up As You Age?

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Wed, 27 Jul 2022 10:17:49 GMT

Should You Change Your Make-Up As You Age?

When we look in the mirror, most of us don’t see a true reflection of ourselves staring back at us. More often than not, we see the version of ourselves in our 20s experimenting with new looks, ourselves in our 30s becoming more confident in our own skin, or ourselves in our 40s when we have finally worked out what looks good and what doesn’t.

But what happens after the greys come in thick and fast, and there are more wrinkles than not? Is that the time we need to give our make-up bag an overhaul and reinvent our style routine?

Perhaps the first, and most important, thing that will need to change as you age is the foundation you use. Marie Claire recognises the importance of getting foundation right as you get older, saying: “You want a complexion product that plumps and hydrates, won’t settle into fine lines or wrinkles, and gives a youthful glow.”

Wearing something too heavy on your skin will age you even more, so it is best to go for something light, such as a CC cream or tinted moisturiser.

When it comes to eye make-up, those who have been rocking the smoky look for the last few decades might not what to do once they hit their 60s and 70s.

Firstly, it is important to prime the eyelids, as this prevents eye shadow from creasing or smearing, which is a big problem with mature skin. Those with warm lids will be prone to running make-up, while ladies with dry lids will find shadow doesn’t blend and eyeliner is hard to apply, according to AARP.

Eyeliner is great at giving definition to the eye, so don’t be afraid of it, as long as you make sure you pull the eye taught enough to get a sleek line. Then go over the line with a similar-coloured eye shadow for a dramatic look.

Neutral eye shadows are the best, using a light shade on the lids and a medium one on the crease. Finally, use a lash curler to open the eyes and finish with black mascara.

Try a self make-up course in Brentwood to perfect your new skills .

How To Protect Your Hair In The Sunshine

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Sat, 16 Jul 2022 10:24:50 GMT

The sunshine is finally here, and while it is time to enjoy a dip in the pool and sunbathing in the garden, it is also important not to forget about your hair.

With highs of more than 30C hitting the UK this week, this can spell bad news for your tresses, if it is not well looked after.

Moisturise

For a start, it is essential to moisturise our locks and use a deep-conditioning treatment every so often. The summer heat, together with frequent washing, salt water and heated appliances can really dry out hair, so make sure you swap to a moisturising shampoo and conditioner to keep your hair shiny.

Wash before seaside fun

If you’re hitting the beach this summer, Elle recommends washing your mane in cold water before going in the sea or swimming pool.

“Your hair can only absorb so much water so by washing it with fresh water first you’re limiting the amount of damaging chlorine it can absorb,” it advised.

Wear a hat

Just as we protect our eyes from the sunlight and our skin from harsh UV rays, it is important to shield our hair too.

That is why it is important to wear a hat or scarf when in the sunshine, with Treehugger saying: “Not only does this provide extra UV protection, but it also helps your scalp to retain moisture. A hat reduces damage caused by wind, especially if your hair is prone to tangling, and protects colour-treated hair.”

Ditch the appliances

Don’t worry about straightening your tresses or using a curling wand while the weather is warm, and it could even be a good idea to let your locks dry naturally. The less heat it is exposed to, the less damaged it will become.

For hair loss treatment in Essex, give us a call today .

What Is A Brazilian Blow Dry?

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Fri, 24 Jun 2022 10:21:09 GMT

Nothing makes you feel more glamorous and sophisticated than a blow dry, but if you want shiny, glossy, well-looked-after hair every day, you need to try the latest salon treatment – a Brazilian blow dry.

Unlike a traditional blow dry, which only lasts until you wash your hair or you get rained on – which, in the UK, could be as soon as you step out of the hairdressers – the Brazilian blow dry is a semi-permanent solution to frizzy hair.

It smooths out your kinks, nourishes your tresses, and makes you feel like every day is a salon day. It works by using the protein keratin to minimise frizz and separate each stand of hair, so it is easier to comb, curl and care for.

A lack of keratin is typically why people suffer from frizz. Therefore, the chemical, which creates a protective shield around each strand, makes the hair elastic, strong and able to withstand damage.

Unlike other hair treatments that straighten the locks permanently, a Brazilian blow dry allows you to keep your waves or curls, while still enjoying glossy, shiny hair.

The keratin treatment typically lasts around four months, with results seen as soon as the stylist rinses it out. Those who wash their hair more infrequently could even enjoy their silky locks for longer.

Ladies worried about whether their regrowth will look wild compared to their blow dry will be reassured to hear that new hair continues to look very natural. There is no obvious distinction between the locks that have been treated and those that haven’t, meaning you don’t have to replenish the treatment as soon as strands begin to grow.

Find out more about a Brazilian blow-dry her e.

Top Tips For A Perfect Daytime Makeup Look

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Fri, 17 Jun 2022 14:25:39 GMT

Top Tips For A Perfect Daytime Makeup Look

When we typically think of the looks we want to learn when taking a hair and makeup course , we tend to think of the bigger, braver and bolder looks that get noticed when out and about.

Daytime makeup, on the other hand, is the complete opposite of this, relying on subtlety and fundamental skills that create a beautiful, natural look.

This can sometimes make it even more difficult to pull off than a bold statement look, but with some of these top tips, you can get a flawless look to fit into your routine every day.

Prime Your Skin

The fundamental secret to success in makeup is priming your skin. Your face is your canvas, after all, and you always want to start a work of art on a blank canvas.

Whilst every person’s skin needs are unique, a good priming routine often starts with a calming toner to hydrate and make it feel soft and smooth, before adding hyaluronic acid, retinol and other serums before applying an enriched moisturiser to layer and lock in these ingredients.

After this, apply a makeup primer to keep your makeup in place and looking as fresh throughout the day as the second you applied it.

The Key Is Blending

Blending is the most important part of eye makeup, so ensure you have a wet sponge and a quality brush

Use an under-eye cream before you you apply your concealer to stop it from creasing, and use your finger to pat the concealer and remove any excess before you blend it and apply a loose powder to set it.

This is also the case when creating an easy smokey eye look, with the key being to blend the darker shade on your lower eyelids and the lighter shade by the crease of your eye together.

This, in combination with mascara and a high-quality lip balm, creates a perfect daytime look.

Evolution Not Revolution

Once you perfect your daytime look, you can easily evolve it into a striking nighttime look by adding a shimmer to your smokey eye and a bold colour lipstick or lipgloss to get yourself quickly ready for the nighttime.

What Make-up To Take On Holiday

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Tue, 31 May 2022 09:41:22 GMT

What Make-up To Take On Holiday

Holidays are usually a time when people go crazy with their cameras, clicking away whenever there’s a new sunset, site, or sangria. Therefore, it is understandable that women want to look their best when in front of the camera, but it can also be difficult to maintain full make-up when you’re hot, sweaty, and sandy.

That’s why we’ve put together our tips on what make-up to stick to when you jet off this summer.

- Ditch the foundation

The first rule is to swap your foundation for something lighter like a BB cream or tinted moisturiser. You don’t need heavy coverage, as it will simply wash off with sweat or water, and leave you looking streaky.

Make-up artist in LA Fiona Stiles told Good Housekeeping : “Make-up likes to move around when it’s hot, so the best way to avoid that is to wear less of it.”

- Bronzer

You might be hoping for a natural tan, but enahnce your sun-kissed glow with some shimmering bronzer on your cheekbones. It’ll give you that natural made-up look, especially when blending on to your neck and decolletage.

- Eye primer

Ditch any cream eyeshadow, as this will shift in the heat, and opt for an eye primer underneath powder instead. This will minimise the risk of eye shadow creasing and make your look last longer in the sunshine.

- Go waterproof

It goes without saying that if you’re spending all day hopping in and out of the pool, you can’t expect your make-up to stay perfect. However, it is wise to waterproof as much as you can with water-resistant mascara or lip and cheek stains.

Lash extensions are a great alternative, or ladies who like to fill in their eyebrows should book microblading treatments in Brentwood before they fly.

What Are The Secrets Of A Salon Blow Dry?

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Mon, 16 May 2022 16:09:30 GMT

What Are The Secrets Of A Salon Blow Dry?

Unless you are naturally blessed with thick straight hair, it can be really difficult to achieve that ‘just stepped out of the salon’ look at home, no matter how many products and styling tools you use. So just what are the secrets of the salon stylists, and is it really possible to achieve the look without some extra help? Here are some tips and tricks from the top!

Prepare your hair first

After your shower, gently towel dry your hair, but do not rub, as this will cause it to frizz. Then apply some form of heat protection, such as a spray or a mousse, to help create a barrier and prevent excess heat damage. Comb the product through from roots to tip.

Straight hair will blow-dry with more volume if it is left to air dry for longer, but if you want to smooth out curls, get going while it’s still very wet.

Use a good quality hairdryer

The type of hairdryer really does make a difference. Cheaper versions tend to have a low pressure and higher heat setting, which takes longer and causes more damage to your hair. It’s worth investing in a powerful dryer with a nozzle to help direct the heat to one section of the hair at a time.

Section your hair

Use clips to section off your hair, so you can focus on drying one area at a time, and don’t miss any out. Next, take a rounded brush, and use some tension to wrap a section of the hair and pull it straight. Hold the nozzle parallel to the brush, and maintain the tension until the hair is dry.

Finish on a cool setting

If your hair dryer has a cool shot button, use it to seal the hair cuticles, as this will help the smoothness to last for longer. Add the finishing touch with a spritz of shine spray, and you are all set!

If you are looking for microblading in Brentwood, talk to us today !

What Is Hair Botox?

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Wed, 27 Apr 2022 16:01:19 GMT

What Is Hair Botox?

Most of us have heard of Botox before, and have probably even had it done a few times to stay wrinkle-free and fresh-faced. But have you ever thought of treating your hair to the same experience and had a go at hair Botox?

For those who might not know, this is an intensive conditioning treatment that leaves your hair smooth, restored and silky.

It contains various ingredients such as amino acids, proteins, minerals, vitamins and botulinum toxin – hence the name – to enrich dry and damaged hair, moisturise frizzy ends, and provide the nourishment your tresses need.

Women have become so concerned about the state of their locks recently that Treatwell has recorded a 46 per cent increase in hair treatments and a 56 per cent surge in hair glossing procedures over the last year, the Evening Standard reported .

This all-in-one treatment is ideal for those with frizzy locks, split ends, very fine hair, or tresses that lack volume or life. After spending so long not being able to go to a hair salon during lockdowns over the last couple of years, many of us probably feel like our hair could do with a conditioning treatment or two to bring it back to its best!

In fact, hair expert Ondine Cowley told the newspaper demand for hair Botox has tripled since 2020.

The product is applied after washing the hair and left on for around half an hour. After that, hair will look sleek, soft and fresh, with the results typically lasting between three and five months.

Book in for hair Botox in Brentwood to see the results for yourself .

Bridal Make-up Trends For 2022

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Fri, 22 Apr 2022 11:15:57 GMT

Bridal Make-up Trends For 2022

Brides always want to look their best on their wedding day, but the make-up style they might want can change according to the latest trends. Here are the latest make-up looks that will be huge during the wedding season this year.

- Nude lips

Ladies are going to let their eyes do the talking on their wedding day, keeping their lips nude and natural. According to Make Me Bridal : “Creamy formulas in nudes with just a touch of pink that are super flattering are perfect for brides.”

Combine nude lips with shimmery eyes, covering eyelids in sparkling metallic shadow for that extra bit of glamour.

- Blush

Forget contouring, this year’s look is all about the fresh-faced blushing bride. This adds to the pretty girl-next-door feeling, making girls look flushed and excited, rather than chiselled.

Wed Shed recommends using a cream blush for a “really luminous, natural look”.

- Hollywood red lips

In total contrast to the nude lippie, brides might want to embrace the vintage Hollywood trend and rock a bold red lip.

The publication states: “We always knew brides would never abandon a classic red lip look entirely. It’s glamorous, timeless and never a bad idea.”

It also screams passionate, which is a look many brides might want to greet their future partner with when they walk down the aisle.

- Foxy eyes

Cat eyes are so last decade, as fox eyes are the latest trend in eye make-up. It became huge after being featured regularly on TikTok, and involves a strong liquid eye liner flick from the corner of the eye, blending eye shadow outwards towards the wing with a small, angled brush.

To complete the look, lash clusters are applied, with the longest lashes attached at the outer edge to create a fluttering effect.

If you’re interested in a bridal make-up course in Brentwood, get in touch with us today .

The Essentials Of Your Makeup Routine And How To Use Them

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Thu, 14 Apr 2022 14:33:22 GMT

The Essentials Of Your Makeup Routine And How To Use Them

The world of makeup is filled with a wide range of styles, looks and products that can sometimes make it difficult to know where to start.

However, one of the core aspects of a self makeup course is to understand that all makeup styles are built from the bare essentials, and if you understand the foundations, you can build up to some truly phenomenal looks.

Here are some of the most essential parts of most makeup kits and how to use them.

Foundation

The first step of any project is the foundation, and this is true of makeup foundation as well. Foundations help to even out your skin tone and remove the appearance of slight blemishes on your face.

This can be as simple as a tinted moisturiser, which adds both hydration and a hint of colour, or can be a more conventional liquid foundation. You apply it with either a flat brush, a small sponge blender or even your finders.

Concealers are more effective, targeted coverage used to cover more prominent blemishes.

Bronzer/Highlighter

If foundation is a way to add light to your skin, bronzer is a slight tan that adds shadows to your face that can be taken away by foundation, whilst highlighters do the opposite and add extra brightness.

Blush

Your natural skin has a little flush of colour on your cheeks, but much like with shadows and highlights, this can be removed by foundations.

A blush, usually applied as a powder by beginners but also available as a cream, adds a flush of colour to your cheeks, which can be similar to your natural look but can also be a more experimental and vibrant colour.

Eyeshadow

Often taking the form of a powder, eyeshadow is a subtle addition of colour applied to the eyelids that help to frame your eyes and can create some truly staggering looks depending on the shade you use.

Eyeliner

A pencil is used to enhance the definition of your eye shape, which can be used to create several dynamic and prominent effects.

You can even take this further with a brow pencil to fill in and add definition to your eyebrows.

Mascara

Mascara is often the first place people start with makeup, as application is as simple as brushing it onto your eyelashes.

Lip Colour

There are far too many types of lip colour to mention here, from balms, tints, stains, crème sticks and glosses, and the key when starting out is to choose a less pigmented, more subtle option and build your way up to stronger looks.

Much like with eye makeup, lip liner can help create a more defined look and stop colour bleed.

The Biggest Makeup Trends This Spring

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Mon, 21 Mar 2022 14:59:55 GMT

The Biggest Makeup Trends This Spring

Spring is a time for new beginnings, new trends and new looks, and 2022 appears to be a year filled with rather more extreme trends and looks than a typical year.

With a focus on playful self-expression, bright colours paired with cool textures, here are some of the biggest makeup trends this spring that will have reverberations throughout the rest of the year.

Explorations Of Self Through Imperfection

Whilst a self-makeup course traditionally tends to focus on conventional ways to apply makeup looks, one of the biggest trends not only of this season but this year will be the exploration of our internal fears, anxieties and anger using our own bodies as the medium.

This means an abandoning of perfection, symmetry, the golden ratio and more subtle colours schemes in favour of a more artistic approach to makeup, with asymmetrical designs, bursts of bright colours and colour outside of its usual restrictive locations, such as using eyeliner over the eyelids.

Skincare Makeup

The last few years have seen experimentations not only with makeup styles but also skincare routines, and with many people practising a form of skinimalism , it makes perfect sense to use a makeup product that also provides skincare benefits.

Tinted sunscreens, peptide-enhancing eyeliners and moisturising lip glosses are just a few of the examples of skincare makeup and the trend is making its way into every type of makeup imaginable.

Iridescent Makeup

An increasingly popular and dynamic look, iridescent makeup appears to change colour or shimmer with an almost rainbow-like effect.

It naturally is perfect to use with more dramatic looks, but can also be used to tremendous effect with a more minimalist look, particularly to frame the eyes.

In terms of products, using rhinestones, a holographic eyeshadow topper or very small amounts of glitter can add an extra bit of sparkle to any look.

Keep It Flowing With Liquid Hair

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Thu, 03 Mar 2022 13:27:58 GMT

Keep It Flowing With Liquid Hair

Every new year brings with it predictions about the dominant styles and fashions of the coming 12 months, most of which seem to contradict each other and be based on guesswork. However, sometimes a new style emerges that is already in pole position to dominate in the months ahead.

In the case of 2022, this fashion is ‘liquid hair’. If you are not familiar with the concept, this is a look where water is both flowing, while at the same time having a wet, reflective look.

This is not about how hair looks just after emerging from the shower, but all day long. It’s been embraced by the likes of Zendaya and Jodie Comer among current celebrities.

Speaking to Metro News, hair stylist Tyler of Live True London said: “This trend is fluid, ultra-shiny and reflective hair, with zero flyaways or frizz. The hair is so glossy - it looks and moves like liquid.”

However, the paper notes, it isn’t a totally new style - the likes of Kim Kardashian and Cher have rocked it in the past - but it has made a major comeback.

It’s not just the Metro News stating all this. Glamour UK has been quick to state this was one new trend it has predicted, declaring: “Last year we called it. Liquid hair is the super-glossy hair trend that we predicted would go stratospheric.“

Anyone planning to undertake a hair and makeup course in Essex will clearly do well to take note of the new trend and its popularity, not least as a number of celebrities will be driving its popularity.

Glamour has suggested a version of this style called the ‘liquid bob’ will be particularly successful, not least as the bob was so popular in 2021, making a combination of the two an obvious choice in 2022.

Of course, other styles will emerge in time as the latest in hair fashion, but for those embarking on a career in the beauty industry, it’s worth noting that, sometimes at least, predictions of what will be ‘in’ can actually turn out to be true.

The History Of The Hair And Makeup Oscar

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Mon, 28 Feb 2022 10:06:27 GMT

The History Of The Hair And Makeup Oscar

One of the motion picture and television industry’s most unsung heroes are the many hair and makeup artists that work on feature films and television shows.

After taking a hair and makeup course, makeup artists that work in film often play a vital role in the film’s production. It is their job, after all, to ensure that the stars look their absolute best and to make the fictional characters seen in these films look and feel as real as possible.

Oddly, however, it would take over 50 years from the creation of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences before the complex artistry of this unsung industry would receive the credit it deserved.

The turning point was the 1980 film The Elephant Man , directed by David Lynch and about Joseph Merrick, a Victorian man who was believed to have Proteus syndrome which gave him a distinct look.

To replicate this, actor John Hurt would sit whilst a team of makeup artists supervised by Christopher Tucker would spend up to eight hours applying the elaborate makeup and prosthetic effects designed from the casts of his body.

The film was exceptionally well received and would be nominated for eight Academy Awards in 1981, although would not win a single one in a year dominated by Raging Bull and Ordinary People.

The biggest outcry for industry figures was that the incredible work of the makeup team that had made The Elephant Man possible would not be honoured, since at the time makeup artists could only receive a Special Achievement Award.

The award, given to William Tuttle for his work on 7 Faces of Dr Lao in 1964 and to John Chambers due to his work on Planet Of The Apes in 1968, was not awarded to The Elephant Man, and the film would not receive a single Academy Award.

However, the outcry was enough for the Academy to create a whole new category for the following year’s awards , where An American Werewolf in London’s makeup by Rick Baker defeated Stan Winston’s work on Heartbeeps.

Could A Beauty Career Be The Change You Need?

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Wed, 16 Feb 2022 13:07:35 GMT

Could A Beauty Career Be The Change You Need?

If your new year’s resolution was to seek a change of career, you will be in very good company, according to new research from LinkedIn.

Research by the professional network site found that no less than plan to change their jobs this year, amounting to 67 per cent of the workforce.

Nor is this chiefly the result of people wanting to “quit the rat race” to freshen things up after many years in one particular industry; the highest numbers seeking change are in Generation Z, where 77 per cent of people are thinking of switching jobs.

The figures are the highest for any European country, which could be coincidence - after all, someone has to finish top - but may also be a reflection on working patterns in the UK and a justified high level of dissatisfaction.

So, if you are young and want to change your job, might now be the time to take a new training course to do what you really want? Makeup courses in Essex could be the best and most practical step if a career in the beauty sector is what you really want to do.

The LinkedIn research found a range of different reasons for people wanting to change. For 37 per cent, it was to increase salary, while 29 per cent are seeking a better work-life balance. In the latter case, there is a clear gender-based split, with 32 per cent of women highlighting this motivation for change compared with 24 per cent of men.

Career changers will be encouraged by the availability of jobs in the economy; the latest shows that in the last three months of 2021 the number of vacancies rose to almost 1.25 million, a record high.

However, that does not mean anyone can just walk into one of these posts. Many will require specific vocational qualifications. So if you want to train for something now, now may be the best time ever to do it.

Revamp Your Style In 2022

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Mon, 14 Feb 2022 13:00:08 GMT

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Chrissy Teigen Shares Details Of Her New Eyebrow Transplant

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Mon, 24 Jan 2022 11:40:43 GMT

Chrissy Teigen Shares Details Of Her New Eyebrow Transplant

Over the years, we have all seen numerous weird and wacky celebrity tweakments and treatments, from super-inflated breast implants, vampire facials, and even butt implants.

But many people will have quizzically arched a brow when Chrissy Teigen took to her Instagram stories to share her brows following ‘eyebrow transplant’ surgery, kicking off a conversation about the cosmetic procedure.

Obviously, the procedure is not for the faint of heart. The operation is similar to normal hair transplants, where hair is taken, typically from the scalp at the back of the head, and individually grafted onto your eyebrows.

However, Chrissy didn’t seem to be phased, commenting on the Instagram post: “I never wear makeup if I can avoid it so I was so excited for this eyebrow transplant surgery.”

She has continued to share details of the brow-healing procedure on her Instagram account and recently posted a video showing how her brows had filled while she was makeup-free.

The reported downtime for eyebrow transplants is typically only a few days, while the brows are a little tender, but they will not come into their full glory for around six months after they have settled in

Most recently, the model shared a super glam video of her full, bushy brows paired with a smokey eye and nude lip, which caused quite a few followers to note comparisons between her and Khloe Kardashian.

With 'healthy brows' being one of the biggest predicted beauty trends for 2022, we can probably expect to see denser eyebrows a-plenty this year.

If transplant surgery seems a little extreme for your tastes, then why not seek out microblading treatments in London? Talk to us today !

How To Get Involved With Hair And Makeup In The Film And Television Industry

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Fri, 21 Jan 2022 13:41:49 GMT

How To Get Involved With Hair And Makeup In The Film And Television Industry

One of the most important parts of the film and television industry is an often unsung hero that helps to make stars seemingly glow on the screen, and in some cases are a vital part of making fantasy reality .

The makeup artist and hairstylist departments, often referred to simply as hair and makeup, is part of nearly every film set, every television program irrespective of the budget and many theatrical productions, which means that for people who have the skills to get into the industry, there are many spaces available.

Here are some top tips to get involved with hair and makeup.

Take A Specialist Course

Whilst a hair and makeup course is not necessarily a requirement to become a hairstylist or makeup artist, many in the field do attend school to ensure they have a complete set of skills that translate onto the stage, particularly when it comes to working with wigs.

However, if you have experience in the field and a willingness to learn new skills as and when you need it, attending a specialist school may not always be required, although it often helps in interviews.

Get Experience In A Salon

This may shock someone reading this, but many, if not most hairdressers working in the film industry have considerable experience in a hair salon, and most makeup artists have worked in beauty parlours.

The experience naturally translates very well; working with real hair and real customers will help when managing a mix of demands of film stars, producers and directors.

With that said, there are some aspects of the role, such as working with wigs, prosthetics and making people look deliberately ugly that you may not get when working in a salon.

Apply For Production Assistant Roles

A production assistant, or PA, is an entry-level job role in film and television, and it can help you get your foot in the door in the industry, and give you an impression of how the hair and makeup department work on set.

Debenhams Beauty Opens On Manchester High Street

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Sat, 25 Dec 2021 11:01:16 GMT

Debenhams Beauty Opens On Manchester High Street

After falling into administration and closing its doors at every single store in the UK, a flagship Debenhams beauty store is opening in Manchester’s Arndale shopping centre and will sell cosmetics, fragrances, and skincare products.

reports that the launch of the store, which is spread across two floors and a total retail space of 7,552 sq ft, will give customers a chance to experience the latest from Debenhams Beauty. Debenhams.com says it wants to create a destination that is 'fresh, modern, and unique'.

The BooHoo Group, which bought the department store brand, said: “Being an almost exclusively online company, it was essential that the store reflected that digital world, the interactive screens connect these two worlds, with real-time posting via social media platforms displayed immediately on them.”

The store officially opened on 9 December and had invited customers to visit the store for a VIP event.

The first 50 customers received a goodie bag with any purchase on the night, as well as beauty demonstrations, exclusive offers, and free samples from iconic beauty brands who will make the flagship store their home.

Jeanette Whithear, Homeware & Beauty Director Debenhams.com said the firm was delighted to open the store in the Arndale, especially with Manchester being the home of the BooHoo group.

“It feels like an organic location for this exciting retail space within the heart of the city,” she said.

“Since April we have reintroduced multiple brands to Debenhams.com as well as new ones, that have really grown the offering for our customers.”

She added that with this next step in the journey for Debenhams.com Beauty, she was excited to see the crossover from the company’s digital and physical elements come to life in the store, as well as increasing the range of brands in 2022.

If you’re looking for a hair and makeup course in Essex, get in touch today .

Is The TikTok Fake Freckles Trend Safe?

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Fri, 10 Dec 2021 12:14:12 GMT

Is The TikTok Fake Freckles Trend Safe?

Freckles are often seen as a sign of youth, and while some people view them as a pain, they have long been made fashionable by the beauty industry since the 1960s. More recently, fashion models such as Aleece Wilson and Adwoa Aboah have been made famous by the perfect archipelago of the little brown specks across their faces.

More recently, freckles have been making waves on TikTok , with users of the popular video-sharing social media platform finding ways to get the look.

However, how safe is the fake freckles trend? An Australian reality TV star was left with permanent scarring and temporary blindness in one eye after trying out the DIY TikTok trend, leading people to question the safety of the TikTok hack.

TikTok users have been demonstrating various ways to achieve the freckles look, using everything from brown markers to henna ink. The latest TikTok hack involves using a sewing needle and ink to tattoo freckles onto your face.

However, it is unlikely that you would want to give yourself a tattoo with a needle you found at home, so it’s not a good idea to try and do the same thing by using a sewing needle to tattoo freckles on your face.

Aussie Big Brother star Tilly Whitfeld was hospitalised after trying the dangerous hack for herself, and pleaded with followers on social media to avoid any DIY or ‘at-home’ beauty techniques such as these, following the incident that left her scarred and with a loss of vision in one eye.

As with such procedures as microblading treatments in London, it is always best to leave these beauty treatments to the professionals .

The Coolest Hair Styles For Winter 2021/22

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Thu, 02 Dec 2021 16:22:01 GMT

The Coolest Hair Styles For Winter 2021/22

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3 Tips For An In-Salon Blow-Dry At Home

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Wed, 24 Nov 2021 15:40:26 GMT

3 Tips For An In-Salon Blow-Dry At Home

Nothing quite beats the feeling of stepping out of the salon with a fresh blow-dry, making you feel like your the lead star in your own movie. We’d give almost anything to make that feeling last, with the bounce, volume, and shine of your hair.

Sadly, it never quite lasts as long as you would like, and often despite the investment you put into our at-home salon techniques, it’s never quite turned out as you hoped. Thankfully, we have some expert tips on how to get that salon look at home. So, grab your hairdryer, and read on!

1. Protect - Hydrate - Set

If you’ve gathered a collection of sprays, mists, foams, and mousses, but do you know what they do how to use them? Before you apply any heat to the hair, it needs protection, so first, liberally apply a dedicated heat protection spray.

Once protected, you should next boost moisture levels by using hydrating products, such as a good blow dry lotion. Finally, focus on setting your style in place with a flexible hold hairspray or a texture spray for a more undone, 'cool girl' aesthetic.

2. Get to know your nozzles

In the salon, your stylist blow-dries your hair so that all your cuticles are facing the same way, to get that very soft and smooth finish. Using the nozzle on your hairdryer, and directing it downwards at home will help seal the cuticle, and get them to lie flatter.

3. Remember the 80 per cent rule

If you've ever tried to properly blow dry your hair at home, you'll know it can feel a lot like arm day at the gym. However, you do not need to start styling your hair until it’s 80 per cent dry. Rough dry your hair first, using a nozzle, until it is around 80 per cent dry, then use a paddle brush to smooth the hair.

If you’re looking for blow-dry lessons in Essex, talk to us today .

What We Can Learn From Three Celebrity Makeup Blunders

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Sat, 20 Nov 2021 16:58:34 GMT

What We Can Learn From Three Celebrity Makeup Blunders

Celebrities are often the vanguard of fashion and makeup trends , with the bold, daring looks they present as they walk along catwalks and down red carpets throughout the world are often immaculate designed, presented and hugely influential.

At its best, you get looks like Nicole Kidman’s 1997 Oscar dress by John Galliano, which was a revolution at the time, but they cannot always be winners.

Angelina Jolie, one of the most stylish women in Hollywood, recently had something of a faux-pas with her unblended, uneven hair extensions, leading some to wonder whether she or her team need a hair and makeup course.

She’s far from the only one, however, and for all the influential looks we have seen over the years, here are some lessons on what not to do with hair and makeup from some noteworthy blunders.

The Flashback Phenomenon

Powder makeup is a revelation for busy, balmy events, as it can reduce the shine caused by sweat or oily skin types. However, you do need to be a little more careful with them than Miley Cyrus was in 2013.

On a night where she was crowned Maxim’s Hottest Woman of 2013, the big talking point was the white, chalky look of her skin, caused by too much powder being used on her chin and cheeks, being picked up by camera flashes in a phenomenon known as the flashback .

Nicole Kidman, a style icon in pretty much every other respect, is a serial offender in this regard, having been caught with a powdery nose at the Monte Carlo Gala in 2019, Women in Film Crystal + Lucy Awards in 2015 and a 2009 event in New York.

The Tanning Problem

We all love a sun-kissed look, but with how often tans go wrong, it may be worth letting the sun set on excessive use of fake tan.

Lindsay Lohan, star of cinematic masterpiece Herbie: Fully Loaded and the remake of Freaky Friday, loved the spray-tan look, but often took it too far, often appearing at red carpet events with overdone and uneven looking tans.

The most interesting recent example, however, comes from Selena Gomez, who made the rookie error of putting too much on not realising that tanning lotion increases in intensity as it dries.

As a result, it went from a beautiful, even tan to an orange look so bad she ran away from the event . She took it in her stride and now rocks styles that suit her skin a lot better in recent years.

Hardly Bob On

Halle Berry is a master of the pixie cut, and few people have worn shorter hairstyles better than she has, with one infamous exception.

When she headed down the red carpet at the Oscars, her ear-length bob looked like it had been cut with a hedge trimmer, and social media were merciless in their response.

Much like Gomez, a few days later she’d emerge with a smile, a joke and some long extensions that suited her style far better.

Bob haircuts are exceptionally difficult to get right, with a lot of care needed to avoid a pageboy look.

Looking After Your Hair In Winter

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Mon, 15 Nov 2021 16:57:44 GMT

Looking After Your Hair In Winter

Autumn and winter is always a challenging time for your hair. The cold and often dry air will blow it about, throwing any carefully-arranged style into chaos, higher rainfall levels could leave it wet more often, and it will be compressed under a woolly hat or hood much of the time.

Some may laugh off such things, reasoning that hair can bounce back from all sorts of things, or that it gets wet anyway when you wash it. But the weather really can make a difference, often in ways you might not expect.

For instance, although your body produces more melatonin to regulate hair growth and should leave you shedding less, the regular switches between cold, dry outdoor conditions and the sudden temperature rise experienced by walking into a heated home can lead to a dry scalp and make your hair brittl e. All that brings with it the dreaded split ends.

S tatic is another issue . Whether it is brushing your hair or pulling a hat on or off, the drier hair you get in winter is more likely to stick up, get tangled and look less attractive. And this static added to friction is why your woolly hat will often have lots of hair strands in it.

All this means that a good blow dry needs to be done professionally, with the hair kept moist so that it is being given the right kind of air flow, instead of being slowly desiccated by first cold then warm air.

Indeed, a bit of moisturising, as well as regular trims and also the application of some colour - as winter weather can squeeze a bit of colour out of it - are all important steps one can take to keep everything looking shiny, neat and full of vitality in what everyone will hope is more of an active party season this year.

If you’re looking for a hair blow dry course in Brentwood, book a consultation today !

Top Tips For Fantastic Makeup Layering

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Mon, 01 Nov 2021 16:39:51 GMT

Top Tips For Fantastic Makeup Layering

Makeup application is often down to personal preference in terms of the style someone is aiming for, the use of colour and whether the aim is to enhance a natural look or create something bold and stylish.

However, there are some core principles that everyone can apply that can help enhance your products, get a bolder look for less, ensure your products last longer and will not affect your skincare routine.

Whilst there are many amazing makeup courses online that can build on these principles and create incredible looks, here are some times on how to layer your makeup.

Moisturise

If you want to have a glowing makeup base, you are going to need to moisturise, and not just because it is good for your skin.

Moisturised skin helps your makeup sit better, last longer and look better, and even if you have oily skin you will need to moisturise.

For the best results, leave your moisturiser on for ten minutes before you apply your makeup, as this will allow it to settle onto your skin.

Choose A Base That Fits Your Skin

There are generally five types of skin people have;

• Normal – Not too dry nor too oily.

• Dry – Skin that easily cracks or gets irritated.

• Oily – Skin with enlarged pores and shiny complexion.

• Combination – Oily in parts, but dry or normal in others.

• Sensitive – Typically caused by a bad reaction to a product, it can look and feel red, inflamed and itchy.

Choosing the right primer for the skin is key to getting the best look. For example, if you have particularly oily skin, a primer with a silicone base can help to maintain your look for longer.

Apply your primer, before your foundation but after your moisturising routine.

Less Is More With Foundation

A common mistake we make with foundation is treating it like concealer and applying more to hide any blemishes.

In actuality, your foundation is only there to even out your skin tone and is best applied in small amounts with a damp beauty blender.

Skinny Eyebrows Are Making A Comeback

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Wed, 20 Oct 2021 13:09:04 GMT

We all know that beauty and fashion trends can be cyclical, and many will have already have noticed that the styles of the 90s are making a comeback. But one that many people wouldn’t have expected is the return of skinny eyebrows.

Glamour magazine reports on the return of the skinny brow, noting they were a hit two decades ago with celebrities such as Linda Evangelista, Gwen Stefani and Drew Barrymore, but were replaced with the big, bushy brows we associate with Cara Delevingne.

But, not they’re back, and the charge is being led by model Bella Hadid, who while she might never have claimed the bushy brow look, was ricking the super skinny brows on the red carpets at this year’s Cannes Film Festival, showing how the straight, sharp, and super-slim brows emphasise her enviable chiselled bone structure.

Celebrities such as Rihanna have also been photographed wearing the look. For Vogue Italia, the singer and businesswoman was shown with dark micro-eyebrows.

However, it may not be a look for everyone, as there will be plenty of Gen-Xers still struggling with the brows they over-plucked 25 years ago, and maybe still scarred from the experience!

Thinner brows can be a real tell-tale sign of age, so they can age you prematurely. And fuller brows have been proven to be scientifically more attractive.

They add a youthful look and can make one appear better groomed and generally more put together.

For those curious but not quite ready to fully commit to skinny eyebrows, TikTok also has a time warp scan feature that allows users to try out different eyebrow looks.

If you’re looking for microblading treatments in Brentwood, book a consultation today !

How To Choose The Right Hair Colour For You

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:59:38 GMT

How To Choose The Right Hair Colour For You

Nothing can transform your look quite so dramatically and easily as changing your hair colour! However, choosing the right hair dye can seem a little overwhelming, especially if you have never taken the plunge before. There are hundreds of shades on offer, so there’s going to be at least a few that are the perfect match. Here are a few tips to help you decide.

1. Check what skin tone you have

You don’t want to create a clash in tone between your hair and skin colour, unless you are very bold and enjoy rocking an edgy look! Generally though, most people look best when their hair and skin colour works in harmony.

If your skin has a warm undertone, such as olive, brown, reddish, or yellow hues, then you will suit warmer colours, ranging from honey blonde, all the way to deep chestnut and dark browns. If you have a pale pinkish, blue, or creamy undertone, then you are likely to have a cool skin tone. You will suit ash blonde or cool red shades.

2. See what shades work best with your eye colour

If you are having trouble deciding what your skin tone is, work with your eye colour instead. If they are predominately blue or green, you are likely to have a cool tone. If they tend towards gold and brown colours, then you will typically have warm skin. Some people naturally have a neutral hue, and will look equally good with a range of colours.

If you are still doubtful about what to go for, it’s best to go no more than two shades darker or lighter than your natural hair colour.

3. Choose your method of colouring

If you choose to have your hair dyed at a professional hair salon, you will have a range of options as to how your hair is treated. This will affect the overall result—for example, you could go for highlights or lowlights, which will give a more subtle and natural look than a block colour.

For microblading treatments in Essex, please get in touch today .

How To Get The Soft Glam Look

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Tue, 05 Oct 2021 13:56:38 GMT

How To Get The Soft Glam Look

Makeup trends tend to move in waves, from brash, bold and ostentatious looks to softer, more natural-looking tones.

The key to a self makeup course is to help people learn the techniques they need to carry out the looks they want, but part of that is understanding what makeup means to each person.

The soft glam look is as much a philosophy on makeup as it is a particular style, it is about a natural-looking style that does not rely on a statement shade but instead uses earthy, fleshy tones to bring out the sparkle in your skin.

It is also a style on the rise according to trend reports , as autumn tends to bring out the desire for earthier, more natural shades.

Here are some top tips to make soft glam work for you.

It’s All About Your Skin

Your skin is the statement piece of a soft glam look, so you need to prep your skin and provide yourself with the best possible base for amazing makeup.

A gentle exfoliator helps to unclog pores and buff away dead skin, and add to that a moisturiser that helps to firm and lift your skin. Finally add a primer, which is the secret to the airbrushed effect synonymous with soft glam, and helps your foundation stick.

Avoid Full Coverage Foundation

The key to the soft glow look is not to cover up your skin, so opt instead for a skin tint. This will hide any blemishes but not cover up your skin’s natural tone, giving you a gorgeous natural glow.

Contour Subtly

Instead of using a solid powder contour, you will use a lighter contour cream or stick to help define your cheeks and bring warmth into your face. To enhance the effect, add a tiny dab of blush onto the apples of your cheeks.

Opt For Nude Lipsticks

Moisturised, natural-looking lips are the order of the day here, so opt for a matte, nude shade or opt for a light gloss or sheen, which plump up your lips without adding a statement shade.

Have You Heard Of Microshading?

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Thu, 23 Sep 2021 10:00:46 GMT

Have You Heard Of Microshading?

We often go to extraordinary lengths to perfect our beauty regimes, spending hours being sucked into black holes of endless YouTube and TikTok videos to find the perfect treatment.

You'll likely have come across microblading while bingeing on hours of beauty tips and hacks, the semi-permanent treatment that is the most effective way of maintaining a perfectly precise eyebrow arch whiteout out having to fill in your brows with a pencil every morning.

However, you might not be aware of microshading, the softer, sister technique that everyone is talking about at the moment. Here’s all you need to know!

What is microshading?

Microblading is performed by tattooing super-fine featherweight strokes on the epidermis of the skin, producing the impression of natural brow hairs.

Microshading is similar, but instead of the needles producing a hair stroke effect, they penetrate further into the skin and leave teeny-tiny dots of pigment throughout the brow. The overall effect creates a shadow or gradient appearance, almost as if you have filled in your brows with a powder.

Much like microblading, the initial post-appointment colour can appear pretty dark, but after a few weeks, it fades into a more subtle shade.

So what are the benefits?

Microshading is said to be better for people with sensitive skin or oily skin because the technique takes better to their skin type.

Experts claim that the treatment also lasts longer, and while the effects of microblading can last between one to two years, the effects of microshading can last up to four years.

If you’re not sure which treatment is right for you, it can be possible to get a combination of both, with the front of the brow micro bladed with stronger hair stroked, and the tail microshaded to get the gradient effect.

If you’re looking for microblading treatments in Brentwood, talk to us today .

Autumn’s Biggest Hair Trends

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Wed, 15 Sep 2021 10:49:26 GMT

Autumn’s Biggest Hair Trends

There might be a good few weeks of summer left yet, but the fashion and beauty trendsetters are already looking at autumn, and predicting what styles we will be sporting in the cooler months.

From hairstyles to colours, we have a look at some of the predicted hair trends coming this autumn so you can get prepared to be ahead of the curve when it comes to the latest hair trends.

One of the biggest hair trends of the year has been the return of the fringe. A fringe is a great way to make a drastic change to your hair without losing length. While anything goes when it comes to the current fringe trends, there will be a more maximalist style as we get to autumn as thick and full fringes will be very popular.

Thick fringes look incredibly stylish when paired with any hair length, from a short bob to mid-length cuts to long locks, and is a fantastic way to update your hair for the new season.

Hair colours tend to be cyclical, so it comes as no surprise that the experts are predicting the return of coppers, reds and auburn this autumn. However, one of the more unexpected hair colour predictions comes with smokey undertones, as the experts predict that brunettes will be wanting more ashy undertones, rather than warm, and blondes may want silvery tones.

Adam Reed, UK Editorial Ambassador for L’Oreal Professionnel, has coined this the 'big smoke blonde’ and it's going to be huge for autumn 2021.

“We’ll see colour across all hair tones become more ashy to add some dimension to your natural base,” he said.

“Blondes that are a mix of a beautiful golden blonde with smokey, ashy tones and sandy tonal highlights for a stunning greige finish.”

If you’re looking for hair extensions in Brentwood, talk to us today .

What To Consider Before Getting Semi-Permanent Makeup

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Tue, 31 Aug 2021 11:26:46 GMT

What To Consider Before Getting Semi-Permanent Makeup

If you’ve tried microblading, then you’ll know how the beauty treatment is the stress-free solution to spending an age stencilling in your eyebrows. Not only can the semi-permanent treatment help to enhance your features, but it also saves you bags of time and money in the long run.

But before you rush off to get semi-permanent makeup to help improve your brows or get under-eye concealer tattoos, it’s important to conduct some research beforehand. We have some tips for what to think about.

1. Do your research

The semi-permanent makeup industry is largely unregulated, which means it is vital to do some research before booking your consultation. While social media and Instagram can allow artists to show their portfolio of work, keep in mind that photos can be edited and followers can one bought.

Message the artist, and ask questions to assess their knowledge and expertise, and visit their website to get reviews.

2. Check for industry accreditations

Look to see if they have any accreditation and if they have won any awards, anything that will validate their claims and prove they work to a high standard.

3. Don't be driven by price

Don’t be tempted by offers that are too good, or too cheap to be true. You may end up having to pay more to get second rate work corrected. This is your face, so make sure you choose the best you can afford.

4. Know that timing is everything

Semi-permanent makeup takes around two weeks to heal properly, and during this time you should avoid getting it wet, direct sunlight, strenuous exercise, wearing makeup, facials, or spas. Keep this in mind, in case you plan on going on holiday or have an event planned.

If you’re looking for microblading treatments in London, get in touch today .

How To Protect Your Hair From Sun And Sea Damage

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Mon, 23 Aug 2021 11:27:30 GMT

How To Protect Your Hair From Sun And Sea Damage

The summer weather can play havoc with our hair, and as we all try to take advantage of the sunny weather, it’s important to take measures to protect it.

Whether you’re heading for a foreign beach holiday this summer , a simple UK staycation, or an afternoon in the park with friends, keep in mind that soaking up the warm weather and swimming in the pool or the ocean can dry out your hair, leaving it stressed and frizzy, and you can even get scalp sunburn.

The hot summer sun can break down artificial hair dyes, and cause coloured locks to fade, lighten, or become a rusty or brassy tone after sun exposure. To preserve your shade, look for hair products that offer sun protection and always use a UV protectant spray when sun-worshipping.

The best way to protect your hair is with a hat, so for a day at the beach, channel your inner Bianca Jagger and don a wide-brimmed hat, that will also help protect your skin from the harmful UV rays.

The summer heat can make hair dry and brittle, and using hot tools when styling your hair won’t help much at all. While there are heat protectant products to use before any thermal styling, the best way is to try and avoid hot hair tools completely.

Embrace your natural texture, and even try sleeping in braids, as it will add a cool, beachy texture without needing any heated tools.

Saltwater and sun exposure can dehydrate hair leaving the ends feeling dry. Before diving in, try pre-dampening your hair, applying a leave-in conditioner, and wrapping strands in a bun.

By pre-dampening and applying product, your hair is less likely to absorb water— hair retains water like a sponge, and if it is full of water/product, it will not absorb more water.

Blondes need to be careful when jumping in the pool, as the chlorine in pool water will discolour alone hair, at best dulling the colour and at worst leaving it with a green tone.

After a day at the beach, shampoo your locks and apply a nourishing hair mask. Use a wide-toothed comb to gently distribute the mask from root to tip and process for 5 minutes. Rinse and apply a leave-in conditioner or styling balm.

If you’re looking for a hair salon in Brentwood, get in touch today .

Bridal Hair And Makeup Trends For Summer

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Wed, 11 Aug 2021 16:38:08 GMT

Bridal Hair And Makeup Trends For Summer

Brides in 2021 will be having an experience like no other, after the rollercoaster of the past 17 months. All the disruption to wedding plans has filtered down into the look and feel of the big day for many couples, whether they are opting for an outdoors reception, or a microwedding with a handful of close family and friends.

Some brides have embraced the low-key approach to hair and makeup adopted during lockdown, while others have gone firmly in the opposite direction, desperate to get all glammed up and looking ultra-polished once again! Here are a few of the key trends of the year so far.

No-makeup makeup

Women who previously ‘did their face’ religiously every morning to go to the office have embraced a more natural look. ‘Barely there’ makeup has been seen on the catwalks, with a focus on a fresh glowing complexion, fuller eyebrows, and soft peachy lips. Often, this look takes just as much skill as bolder makeup, as the art is to use subtle enhancements.

Statement eyes

Wearing a mask has made lipstick an impractical choice for many of us, which has led to an increased focus on the eyes. Smokey eyes, with strongly defined lower lash lines, charcoal greys and soft blues, and long dark lashes, have made a comeback.

Laid back hairstyles

For smaller and simpler weddings, brides have been opting for a textured low bun or pony tail as an alternative to the traditional up do. Teamed with decorative beads or flowers, this easy-going style can look super pretty for boho brides.

Vintage waves

For those who crave a little more glam, the traditional Hollywood aesthetic is also a big trend at the moment, including loose shiny waves which can easily be created with a heated curling wand.

If you are looking for hair extensions in Brentwood Essex, please get in touch today .

Which Eyebrow Treatment Is Right For You?

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Wed, 04 Aug 2021 16:06:40 GMT

Which Eyebrow Treatment Is Right For You?

Your eyebrows lend character to your face and draw attention to your eyes, which are your most expressive facial feature. Therefore, well-groomed brows will not only show off your face to best advantage, but help you communicate more confidently. There are several brow treatments to consider, so here’s a quick guide to help you decide the best for you.

Brow lamination

This treatment is described as a ‘ perm for your eyebrows ’. It makes the brows thicker and fuller in appearance, and allows the hairs to be redirected and set in a more even shape. If you have untidy straggly ends to your brows, but you want to keep the volume, then lamination is a great option as it will straighten them out.

Microblading

This is a treatment designed for those with thin eyebrows, who want a semi-permanent fill. It is a form of tattooing in which tiny fine point needles are used to create very fine feathery strokes which resemble hairs. The result is very natural, and the pigment and techniques can be adjusted for intensity. The procedure lasts for 12 to 18 months.

Ombre brows

Also known as powder brows, this is a similar treatment to microblading in that it uses a semi-permanent tattoo to give definition to the brows. However, a digital tool is used to deposit tiny dots of colour in between the hairs, which gives a powdery look, similar to the effect that using a cosmetic powder brush would have.

Eyebrow threading

This method is used to give shape to the brows, and is considered a good alternative to waxing for those with sensitive skin. Twisted threads are used to remove stray brow hairs by the follicle, but it doesn’t remove any layers of skin, unlike waxing. The effects of threading will usually last two to four weeks.

If you are looking for microblading in Essex, please get in touch today .

The Wolf Cut Is The Latest Celebrity-Approved Trend

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Mon, 26 Jul 2021 14:34:21 GMT

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The world collectively lost its mind when Billie Eilish revealed her platinum blonde hair in March this year. The pop singer’s unmistakable dark hair with green roots and mullet style had been replaced with bright blonde locks cut into a mullet-meets-shag style.

Now, this haircut is doing the rounds on TikTok, and has been dubbed the ‘Wolf Cut’. However, presenter and British fashionista Alexa Chung has posted a throwback photo of her own wolf cut back in 2016, showing she is always ahead of the curve, according to Vogue UK .

The mullet and the shag haircuts have both gained popularity in 2021, and the wolf cut beautifully blends the styles to create a slightly softer version, still with its choppy layers and curtain fringe, but it needs far less upkeep to keep everything in its place.

The wolf cut allows for a little more flexibility, seemingly works on a number of hair types and allows you to leave a bit of time between haircuts.

With the wolf cut making its rounds on TikTok, users have been taking matters into their own hands and chopping their hair into the style at home, and the expected mix of results!

If you’re wanting to rock the wolf cut for yourself, simply ask your hairdresser for shaggy layers throughout your hair and a curtain fringe. Describe the look you want to achieve, and be sure to show them some reference photos to ensure you’re both on the same page!

The beauty of this cut is that you can make it as soft or as dramatic as you want. For a more played-down wolf cut, you’re looking to emulate Eilish’s style, while several TikTok users have heavily leaned into the wolf cut and made their hair super whispy and choppy.

If you’re looking for a hair salon in Brentwood, get in touch today .

Weddings Are Not The Only Inspiration

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Mon, 05 Jul 2021 09:53:03 GMT

Weddings Are Not The Only Inspiration

Now summer is truly upon us and more guests have been allowed at weddings, the chances are you will have been able to attend one, and enjoy not just the fun and joy of the day, but admire the bride’s dress, makeup and hair.

All that may inspire those thinking of undertaking beauty courses to sign themselves up for one, while others who are going to get married themselves may start thinking about where to find bridal hair and makeup services in Essex .

Sometimes a bit of inspiration is needed. For example, here in England Ripon Cathedral has just begun a two-month exhibition of wedding dresses worn by royals, featuring the gowns and tiaras worn by everyone from Princess Diana and Queen Victoria to Princess Grace of Monaco. It should not be forgotten, however, that the hair and makeup matter just as much as the dress.

However, there are times when inspiration can come from somewhere completely different.

For instance, there was the case in the US of Tik-Tok star Tessica Brown . In February this year she revealed that after running out of hair spray she had used Gorilla Glue in her hair. Somewhat predictably, this left her unable to alter her style at all and left her needing surgery after all other attempts to get the glue out failed.

However, the experience - which left her with hardly any hair - has inspired Tessica to launch her own line of hair care products. She told CNN : "I launched these products to help not only myself but other people like me that need help growing their hair," highlighting how “all natural” substances such as pure avocado oil, black castor and rosemary helped her get it back.

Suffice to say, messing around with superglue is probably not the best place to start, but everyone has to begin somewhere. If you take a course in bridal hair care, the only thing that should be sticking together like glue is the newlywed couples themselves.

Hot Summer Trend: Wet Look Hair

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Wed, 23 Jun 2021 12:03:12 GMT

We’ve been enjoying some deliciously hot and sunny weather of late, which has certainly been a welcome relief after one of the wettest Mays on record… and it really does feel as though summer is well on the way now, which means we can now start turning our minds towards all the latest summery health and beauty trends to hit up over the next few months.

Where our hair is concerned, it seems that the wet look is going to be a very popular one this summer, with Glamour Magazine now reporting that influencers all over the place are starting to sport this particular loo k… and with serious aplomb.

Model Kaia Gerber, for example, goes for a very low maintenance approach for this hairstyle, combing wet strands out of her face and simply waiting for them to dry. An easy one to replicate, for sure!

And influencer Lovely Bryana went for a curly take on the trend, using a deep conditioning mask from root to tip, brushing it through and then using a styling gel to give shape to her hair before finishing off with a defining gel. She also ties a scarf over her hair to keep it in place as it dries - a useful tip for one and all.

But one of the easiest ways to hit the trend on the head is to copy Hailey Bieber’s updo, with your hair pulled back into a chic little bun… absolutely perfect for balmy summer days.

Another style you’re likely to see a lot more of at the moment is the shullet - a cross between the famous 80s mullet and the 90s shag, characterised by a choppy fringe and lots of feathery layers… definitely a hairstyle for the brave!

Want to take a hair and makeup course in Essex? Get in touch with Blush & Blow today.

Caring for your Hair Extensions whilst swimming!

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Wed, 23 Jun 2021 08:43:03 GMT

When swimming with your Hair Extensions, always ensure they are tied up! Try to avoid getting your Hair Extensions wet. Remember, swimming pool chemicals can alter the colour of your Hair Extensions especially blonde & light colours. The same also applies to sun cream and too much exposure to direct sunlight.

No matter whether you’re swimming in the ocean or in a chlorinated pool, both salt and chlorine will have a negative impact on your extensions causing them to become knotted and even worse matted.

The salt water and chlorine can not only affect the actual hair but also what is attaching the extensions to your natural hair, whether that be; micro rings, nano rings, tape, glue or weft.

In fact it is these that need to be kept try and out of the sea or pool water the most, as these are most fragile when wet.

The problem with chlorine and salt water is that it’s extremely harsh on natural hair, drying it out more than normal. So you can imagine the effect they have on hair extensions which naturally become drier just from day to day wear, because they don’t have access to sebum.

Whatever you do, make sure your hair isn’t left down and able to float around in the pool/sea, as this will increase the likelihood of your hair extensions to mat. Something you don’t ever want to happen especially when abroad on holiday.

Once the hair is mat it will be incredibly hard for you to unmat it, if at all.

Once you’ve got out of the pool or sea, and your extensions are wet, it is so important that you gently brush any knots out and dry the extensions bonds and hair as soon as you can to prevent the water damaging them. This is especially so for glued in hair extensions, as the water can cause the glue to ‘unstick’ and move them, or even lose the hair extension.

Top Tips To Care For Your Hair Extensions

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Tue, 23 Feb 2021 15:01:46 GMT

Top Tips To Care For Your Hair Extensions

If there was ever a time to experiment with your hairstyle and hair length, right now is the time.

With many of us spending more time at home and seeing ourselves more during videoconferencing calls, a great way to totally transform your look is growing your hair out using our beautiful Russian Elegance hair extensions .

However, much like your natural hair, your extensions also need some care to avoid tangles and stay beautiful. Here are some easy tips to take care of your extensions.

For a full list of our beauty tips, take a look at our aftercare bible .

Tie Into A Ponytail

There are two activities that we do every day that can have a surprising effect on our hair: sleeping and exercising. As many of us with long hair can relate, sleeping on your hair will cause tangles and oddly uncomfortable sleep.

With clip-in extensions, the best advice is simply not to wear them at night, but with sewn-in and bonded extensions, simply tie your hair loosely in a ponytail before going to bed.

Keep Away From Heat Stylers

Hairdryers, straighteners and curlers are typically not good news for your hair extensions. Unlike natural hair, hair extensions cannot produce natural protectants which can stop hair burning under intense heat.

Lower the heat setting on your devices and be sure to use heat oils and other protectants if you must style them that way. Otherwise, use a texture spray as an alternative.

Avoid Swimming

Hair extensions are affected by several chemicals natural hair would not be, especially chlorine and hard water. If you want to swim, coat your hair with a mix of water and conditioner and tie them back to avoid the water affecting your hair.

As well as this, try not to wash your hair more than three times awake, and keep products away from the bonding areas as much as possible.

Prepare Your Hair For The Summer Months

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Mon, 22 Feb 2021 11:29:15 GMT

Summer will soon be here!! You’re probably now looking forward to your sunny beach holiday abroad, (if we can by the summer!) however have you thought about how to protect and prepare your hair for the effects of sun, sea and sand? or even just the sunshine in the garden

We have all the answers to keeping your locks in tip-top condition this summer.

Try using deeply hydrating masks and conditioners every week in order to nourish hair. Shampoos, conditioners and masks should be used regularly to create luscious shiny summer hair’.

If you’re wondering whether to book in a cut and colour before or after a trip, we’ve got the stylist-approved answer: it’s best to do it before. Freshly-trimmed ends will ensure the hair is in the best condition to handle the heat, while recently-refreshed hair colour will look incredible in photos.

Hair needs UV protection, too. To shield your strands from the drying effects of the sun, use a protective spray or cream that will keep lengths soft and supple all season.

If you have color-treated hair, you need to take extra care of your hair during summer.

Chemical treatments mixed with the burning summer sun can lead to color fading, maximum damage and hair dryness. Choose hair care products made especially for color-treated hair.

Instead of brushing your hair with a regular hairbrush, use a wide-tooth comb instead. This will help detangle your hair after a long day at the beach and help you avoid breakage when doing so.

We have an amazing Blush and Blow Protein Spray. Check our instagram toast experience on how our product did for heat protection. This is available to be instore or you can pop us a message on socials or via the website.

Winter Beauty Hacks To Keep Your Hair Silky

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Mon, 15 Feb 2021 14:28:47 GMT

Winter is the season where your hair will take a lot of punishment.

The freezing temperatures, strong winds and rain all will take its toll on your hair, and cranking up your thermostat can lead to your hair becoming frizzy, dry and brittle.

All is not lost, however, as there are so many beauty hacks out there that can keep your hair looking glamorous and your skin smooth and shimmering.

Here are some of our favourites.

Microfibre Towels

When you wash your hair in winter, ditch the hairdryer and replace it with a microfibre towel.

Microfibres are exceptionally absorbent cloths and because of this are much gentler on your hair than regular towers and hairdryers.

Save time by gently squeezing your tresses with a microfibre towel to get the water out.

Cool Off In The Shower

It is tempting to have an incredibly hot bath or shower to warm yourself after getting inside from the bracing weather. However, this is not good for your skin.

Hot water dries out the skin, drains it of oils that protect its surface and can even damage its surface . Instead, turn down the temperature slightly, have a shorter shower and be sure to moisturise your skin afterwards.

Take An Oatmeal Bath

If you suffer from itchy or irritated skin in winter, pouring a small cup of plain oatmeal into the bath helps soothe it by taking advantage of the vitamins and minerals naturally found in the cereal.

For a gentle, professional treatment from a blow-dry bar in Essex, get in touch with us today .

Professional Tips for Healthy Hair In Lockdown

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Fri, 12 Feb 2021 12:41:17 GMT

As the world continues to battle against the coronavirus, the UK national lockdown has been extended until at least March, which means we are all having to make do without having access to our favourite salons for even longer than planned.

While some people may take the plunge in cutting and styling their own hair during the lockdown, many women have decided to use the time to let their hair recover from constant treatments, dyes, and intensive styling, embrace their natural texture and even embrace their natural hair colour .

Whatever you lockdown hair care regime, we have some tips to keep your hair healthy.

1. How Often You Wash Your Hair Depends on Hair Type

Daily washing can dry out the hair but there are less stringent shampoos that can moisturise more than others, which is a good middle-ground for shampooing daily without drying it out too much.

Some people with really thin hair still like the feeling of clean, dry hair as it can make the hair seem fuller with more texture. Those with thick hair don’t need to wash as often because the hair absorbs more of the natural oils the scalp generates.

2. Minimise Heat Styling If Possible

Heat styling your hair should be saved for special occasions. Finer hair can be air dried, and thicker hair can be heat dried, but then should be left for a week before washing again. Keeping heat styling to a minimum will protect your hair and cuticles.

Understanding your hair, and how to get the most from its natural texture, will allow you to rely more on products and less on heat styling. Products will help protect your hair as well as enhance a shape or texture.

3. Health Hair Growth Requires a Good Diet

As the saying goes, you are what you eat, and your diet can have a huge impact on your hair health. Sugar, for instance, will cause your body to produce increased levels of the hair-loss hormone DHT.

Eat whole foods that are rich in nutrients like protein, Vitamin C, and omega 3 fatty acids. Iron, B12, folate, biotin, and zinc are also of benefit to the hair. Low Iron, B12, and Folate levels can cause anaemia which reduces blood flow to the hair.

If you’re looking for a post-lockdown hair salon in Brentwood, get in touch !

Styling Your Ponytail To Suit Your Personality

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Mon, 08 Feb 2021 13:10:20 GMT

Styling Your Ponytail To Suit Your Personality

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Pink - The Pandemic Hair Colour Of Choice!

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Fri, 22 Jan 2021 12:34:09 GMT

It’s always interesting to see what’s going on with all the latest trends in health and beauty, in case there’s something there that really catches your eye - and what could be more eye-catching than bright pink hair?

Apparently, pink has become the pandemic hair colour of choice , with many a famous face sporting various shades over the last few months - so you can bet you’re going to see a lot more people out and about with pink hair in the near future, as well.

The likes of Jennifer Lopez, Chrissy Teigen, Justin Bieber, Lady Gaga, Dua Lipa, Madonna and Whitney Cummings have all transformed their tresses and gone pink, with tones ranging from rose and fuchsia to bubblegum.

As explained by editor of the Hair Historian on Instagram Rachael Gibson, pink is a “low-commitment colour that fades or washes out when you get bored of it”... so it might be the perfect choice if you’re keen for a new look but aren’t sure what colour to try, or if you know you like changing your hair colour regularly.

And let’s not forget what a bright, joyful colour pink is - and what with it being January and the middle of a pandemic, a little bit of lighthearted cheer will always be appreciated.

As for the future hair colour trends, you can expect 70s golden blondes to be big news, as well as tonal brunettes, reds and peekaboo hair, where a darker shade is applied to the back of the hair and then hidden beneath the top layer, in a contrasting colour.

Come and visit us at Essex blow dry bar Blush & Blow once lockdown is over!

Two Important Hair Care Tips This Winter

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Tue, 12 Jan 2021 14:29:34 GMT

Two Important Hair Care Tips This Winter

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What Is A Brazilian Blow Dry?

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Sun, 27 Dec 2020 10:47:21 GMT

What Is A Brazilian Blow Dry?

If you’re looking to spoil yourself at the moment, why not give your head a bit of a treat and take yourself off for a Brazilian blow dry, a keratin treatment that can do wonders for your hair, especially at this time of year when we all have to deal with lots of frizz, thanks to all the wind and rain.

This kind of blow dry is a semi-permanent way to give yourself smooth hair that’s easy to manage. You can still style it how you like, however, so there’s no need to worry that you won’t be able to get those perfect curls every now and again, either.

The treatment contains liquid keratin, which helps to create a barrier around every strand of hair, sealing the cuticle and protecting your hair from damage. We already have keratin (a type of protein) in our hair and nails already, but it can be affected by the use of chemicals and heat, leaving it brittle… and frizzy!

It will last between three and four months, so definitely a good option if you know you’re often pressed for time and want to have perfect hair day in, day out without all the fuss and bother. Your hair will also be healthier overall, since you won’t be using hair straighteners and blow dryers on it quite so often.

You’ll find that your hair is stronger as a result, thanks to all that protection from UV rays, wind, frost, chlorinated water and so on. The treatment can be used on chemically treated and colour-treated hair, with results visible immediately after application.

Get in touch with Brentwood hair salon Blush & Blow to book an appointment.

What Beauty Hacks Have You Been Searching For?

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Wed, 23 Dec 2020 14:37:23 GMT

2020 has made all of us attempt DIY hair and beauty hacks that we might not have otherwise, and that shows in our Google search results.

Harper’s Bazaar recently shared a list of the top beauty search queries in Google for 2020, as compiled by WWD. At the top of the list was ‘How to cut men’s hair at home’, with ‘How to cut women’s hair’ at number six on the list.

At number two was ‘How to plop hair’ (for those unfamiliar with this term, it’s a way of styling curly hair), which was followed by ‘How to colour your hair at home’.

We also had a lot of questions about our skin care regimes, including ‘how to build a skin care routine’, which was at number three on the list of questions in this area of beauty.

It also seems that we all became more interested in what was in our skin care and other beauty products, with questions about a host of ingredients and what they’re used for, including vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, retinol and lactic acid.

With varying levels of restrictions around the UK set to continue for at least the next few months, you might decide that it’s a worthwhile investment to have some make up lessons in Essex to make sure that this side of your beauty routine is on point.

This might also give you the confidence to try some of the more unusual makeup trends cropping up, such as the watercolour makeup trend identified by Vogue . This involves using vibrant colours, including pinks, greens and lilacs, and applying them with “sheer watercolour washes” to soften the tones.

Top Tips To Avoid Split Ends

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Thu, 26 Nov 2020 13:50:34 GMT

Top Tips To Avoid Split Ends

Split ends are the bane of many hairstylists, simply because when they become noticeable the only way to truly get rid of them is to snip them off.

Like with many of life’s problems, the best way to avoid split ends is to stop them happening in the first place and avoid having to trim your hair to get rid of them.

How Do Split Ends Form?

Split ends are where the hair strand frays at the bottom of the hair follicle. This leads to rather dry, brittle and frayed ends that make your hair look wild and uncontrollable.

Typically this is caused by damage to the hair follicle, which can happen for a range of reasons. Knowing these will help you avoid them forming quite as often.

Hot And Cold

The winter weather is not very kind on your hair, not just because of the cold winds affecting your hair but coming back into the warm.

As well as this, using hair straighteners, curlers and blow-dryers can also cause damage. Booking a professional treatment at an Essex blow-dry salon will help reduce this, as they help to keep your hair healthy whilst it is being treated.

When at home, make sure to use a heat protectant whenever you dry your hair.

Be Gentle

When we are in a rush it can be incredibly tempting to be a bit rough when we brush and towel dry our hair. However, the abrasive rubbing and pulling can itself exacerbate our split ends.

Chemical Treatments

Hair colourings, as well as relaxers and perms, can cause mayhem to our hair when not correctly applied, so if you are unsure what to do, make sure to go to a professional salon.

L’Oréal’s Releases Hyper-Real Makeup Filters

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Wed, 18 Nov 2020 12:25:42 GMT

The statement makeup trend shows no sign of slowing down, even if we don’t have anywhere to go to show it off. That hasn’t stopped makeup aficionados, with big and bold makeup inspiring many during the lockdown.

However, for those who aren’t as skilled with liner and lash glue, or don’t have time to get ready for a last-minute Zoom meeting, the L’Oréal have released Signature Faces, a range of 10 new filters that work with Snapchat, Instagram, Zoom, Microsoft Teams and Google Hangouts, according to Beebom.

The 10 filters have been developed in collaboration with VICE’s creative agency, VIRTUE, and designed by L’Oréal Paris’ global makeup artist Val Garland, who was recently on BBC’s makeup show, Glow Up, and a team of very talented 3D digital artists.

There are a handful of digital looks to experiment with: Volumizing Capsules (3D speckles of chrome, pearl and glitter, which embellish lids and lashes), Plump Shot (a wash of lustrous gloss on lids and lips) and our favourite, Fire Match (smoky sunset-inspired eyeshadow with matching matte lipstick and hazy blush to boot).

The filters work on video calls, ideal for socially distance Zoom cocktail and quiz meetings, as well as on live streams and your social media feeds. The hyper-real looks mean that rushing around to do your makeup before video calls with friends, colleagues, or family is now a thing of the past!

Signature Faces is free and super easy to use. On Instagram, you can find them via L'Oréal Paris' profile. Tap the screen and fit the filter to your face before snapping a picture or recording. On desktop platforms, you can find each filter on Snap Camera.

Once you download that to your laptop, you can use them during video calls on Google Hangouts, Google Duo, Zoom and Microsoft Teams.

If you are looking for make up lessons in Essex, for when we can all physically meet up again, get in touch !

What Is Olaplex?

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Fri, 13 Nov 2020 14:26:06 GMT

What Is Olaplex?

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Do You Suffer From Post-Blow Drying Frizz?

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Thu, 05 Nov 2020 10:24:33 GMT

While we are big fans of how blow drying can make your hair look, for some of us it doesn’t always turn out as intended and, if you have the type of hair that’s prone to frizz, applying heat to it can make it do just that.

Don’t worry if this is a problem that you’ve suffered from in the past because there are some simple steps you can take to ensure you have the perfect finish to your hair, no frizz in sight.

Yahoo! recently shared some advice, starting with making sure you use a heat protectant on your hair before you go near it with your hair dryer.

What these products do is seal your hair cuticles, which prevents your hair losing moisture when it’s heated and therefore significantly reduces the chances that your hair will become frizzy.

Another top tip is to apply hair oil while your hair is still damp and, again, before you put your hair dryer on it. Not only do these products moisturise your hair, but they also result in a smooth finish to your style.

When it comes to your blow drying technique, meanwhile, the key is to dry your hair in the direction that it grows. That means you should always blow dry with your hair dryer pointing down towards the ground, not up towards your scalp. If you do the latter, you’re setting yourself up for a frizzy finish.

We recently shared some advice on how to protect your hair when you’re using hair dryers and other heated styling tools, so make sure you take this advice on board too as it will ensure your hair stays healthy as well as looking its best.

Need some more help with your blow drying technique? Book blowdry lessons in Essex to learn from our team of experts and ensure your hair always looks amazing

Do You Want Jlo Style Hair?

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Thu, 22 Oct 2020 15:30:18 GMT

Jennifer Lopez is no stranger to changing her look and with a stylist like Chris Appleton (whose other famous clients include Ariana Grande and Kim Kardashian) we can’t really blame her.

As we move into winter, she’s decided to go for incredible Rapunzel-style blonde hair extensions - that’s some serious inspiration if you need a pick-me-up for your style as the weather gets colder.

Cosmopolitan shared a snap from Jlo’s Instagram where she proudly displayed her hip-length wavy golden locks.

If you’re thinking of revamping your hairstyle for the winter, another option you may want to consider is body wave hair extensions.

As Cosmopolitan explained in an article last month, this is defined by its “soft, loose curl pattern”.

Speaking to the publication, Latoya Boothe, owner of Honey Salon Harlem in New York City, said that one of the advantages to this style is that you’ll still have some nice shape and wave to your hair, even if you haven’t spent a lot of time styling it.

There are also various options for body wave hair extensions, including clip-ins or sew-ins. According to Ms Boothe, one of the advantages of sew-in extensions is that they can protect your natural hair from exposure to heat styling, product build-up and excessive brushing, giving it a break.

She said that it’s best to talk to your hairstylist if you’re not sure what kind of extensions are most suitable for you.

Whether you want to channel your inner Jlo, or change up your style with some body wave extensions, come and speak to us about getting hair extensions in Brentwood Essex .

How To Get Feel-Good Hair As You Get Older

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Thu, 08 Oct 2020 14:28:29 GMT

How To Get Feel-Good Hair As You Get Older

Shedding hair is a normal part of life and, as we get older, we tend to lose a bit more of our hair than when we were younger.

But, as Good Housekeeping recently pointed out, one in four women can experience menopausal hair loss between the ages of 50 and 70. That means your hair can feel thinner and not look as full and glorious as it once did, which we all know can get you down.

However, the publication shared some top tips to help you stay confident in how your hair looks and feels.

These tips apply whether you’re in that older age bracket or not - it never hurts to have some techniques for boosting your hair and your mood. Using deep conditioning treatments can help anyone who has very thick or very dry hair, for instance, while those with fine hair could find that a leave-in conditioner is especially useful.

Stress can contribute to how our hair looks and to whether we notice that we’re shedding more hair, so look for ways to minimise the stress in your life as much as possible.

It’s also important to look after your hair. We love a good blow dry as much as the next person, but we’re also aware that you need to protect your hair from the heat to prevent damage. Not sure how best to do this? Join one of our Essex blow dry courses to get some advice .

As we move into winter, it’s also worth giving your hair a little extra TLC. We recently shared some advice on how to do this , including washing your hair less frequently and turning the heat on the shower down just a touch.

How To Protect Your Hair While Blow Drying

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Tue, 29 Sep 2020 09:36:52 GMT

How To Protect Your Hair While Blow Drying

With the festive season on the horizon, no doubt our thoughts are starting to turn towards all those fun parties and gatherings to be had (socially distanced this year, of course!) - so knowing how to protect your hair while styling it at home is a wise move if you want it to stay in good condition, looking lovely and luscious over the winter months.

Before you get the hair dryer out, give your locks a gentle towel dry to remove the excess moisture. Being gentle is absolutely key here, as harsh rubbing can cause damage, as well as tangles. If you do come across any tangled areas, tease them out carefully with a wide-tooth comb.

Once you’re ready to use the hairdryer, make sure you don’t hold it too close to your head or you risk damaging your hair. Do the back and sides first (unless you have a fringe), starting with a high speed and temperature, and gradually reducing the heat as your hair dries.

Also consider the kind of brush you’re using, as this can cause damage if you’re not careful. The longer your hair is, the wider your brush should be, so bear this in mind if you get a haircut. You may need to update your brush!

If you want a bit of extra volume from your blow dry, consider flipping your head upside down, gently brushing your hair downwards while following with the dryer. Or you could come and see us at Blush & Blow , a Brentwood blow dry bar, to help you achieve the perfect festive party look.

Are you making any of these mistakes while blow drying your hair?

4 Winter Hair Care Tips

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Mon, 21 Sep 2020 13:44:35 GMT

The weather might be amazing at the moment in some parts of the country, but as lovely as an Indian summer is, it can’t last forever and autumn and winter will certainly hit us at some point in the very near future… so knowing what to do to keep your locks looking luscious and thick until spring is a very wise move indeed.

Luckily, there’s a lot you can do to help keep your hair and scalp in good condition over the colder months, and you’ll also be pleased to hear that it won’t take a lot of effort. Beautiful hair for minimal maintenance work is the dream, after all!

If you know that you’re prone to static hair at this time of year, perhaps invest in some leave-in conditioner, as this can really help make a difference where static is concerned. Static is a sign your hair is too dry, so a bit of TLC can really bring it back to life.

Washing your hair a little less can also help, but if you really can’t cut back on the washing, think about turning the heat in the shower down a little. Hot water can cause a lot of damage and contribute to the drying-out of your hair, so use warm or cool water if you can.

Going for regular trims can also help keep your hair healthy and looking full and bouncy, so try to keep on top of the trips to the hairdresser if possible. And never go outside without letting your hair dry completely. Damp hair is more prone to breakage and you could find your color fades quicker, as well.

Come and see us at Blush n Blow for a Brazilian blow dry in Essex this winter.

What To Eat For Healthy Hair

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Tue, 08 Sep 2020 13:58:55 GMT

What To Eat For Healthy Hair

Enjoying a beautiful head of bouncy, healthy hair isn’t just about washing it regularly, keeping it untangled and using all the latest products for body and shine - you can also help to keep your locks looking luscious by focusing on lifestyle, as well.

Diet has a really important role in both hair and skin quality, so if you have been feeling as though your hair is a little on the thin side of late, it might be down to what you’re eating… and the good news is that this is an easy fix!

You can help to promote hair growth by increasing your protein intake, so stock the fridge with lots of eggs as these are really high in protein. If you’re vegan, avoid the eggs and go for tofu instead, as this is incredibly high in protein and a really good swap to make.

You can scramble it in the same way you would use your eggs and add in some turmeric for a bit of an added health boost, while kala namak (a rock salt used a lot in South Asia) helps to give it that eggy flavour.

Spinach is another ingredient that’s also really good for both skin and hair, full of amazing vitamins and nutrients like iron and folate, as well as vitamins A and C. It’s also a really versatile vegetable and can be used in multiple ways - and it goes with all sorts of other ingredients, so you’ll find yourself cooking with it a lot.

Omega-3 fatty acids are also great for the promotion of hair growth so stock up on the likes of mackerel, herring and salmon to see if this makes a difference.

Looking for a blow dry bar in Brentwood? Come and see us here at Blush & Blow today.

3 Hair Tips In Case Of A Second Lockdown

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Thu, 20 Aug 2020 08:57:12 GMT

3 Hair Tips In Case Of A Second Lockdown

When the salons closed back in March due to the lockdown, we were all desperately wondering when we could get our locks trimmed and treated again. It was especially hard if you were due for an appointment when the lockdown hit, and had to wait for months with split ends, faded colour, and brittle hair.

As for the moment, the lockdown restrictions are being eased, and from 15 August, more beauty treatments will become available again, and the hair industry is fully operational again. But we have to remain cautious, as a second lockdown hasn’t been completely ruled out.

Should the worst happen, and we have to make do without expert help, here are some tips on how to maintain your style and colour at home.

Lay off the heat

Constant, everyday styling will put your hair under pressure, so make sure you take a break from the heated tools. As we already know, a lockdown is a perfect time to embrace your natural style.

Invest in at-home treatments

Should a lockdown happen, you’ll have more time to treat your hair. Invest in some good treatments that you can leave in your hair for a long time to get all the nourishment it needs.

Ask for bespoke home colour

Why not ask your colourist about their recommendations next time you visit, or they might be able to put together a bespoke mask or conditioner with added colour pigment. It’s ideal for enhancing your colours and disguising your roots.

It will add longevity to reds and brunettes and will restore the warmth into blondes.

If you’re looking for a Brazilian blow-dry in Essex, book an appointment today !

Getting Frizzy Humidity Hair Problems?

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Fri, 14 Aug 2020 11:08:27 GMT

Getting Frizzy Humidity Hair Problems?

While we all love the hot and sunny weather, the British summertimes are getting increasingly hot and damp, and the stifling humidity can be a nightmare for our hair. It’s essential to develop a plan of action to take care of yourself, your skin, and your hair during the muggy weather.

There are many products designed to help cope with the effect of summer on your hair and skin, and more salons have reopened for expert help, but we have some simple tips for how to manage your frizzy hair at home.

Always make sure your scalp is clean. A dirty scalp can lead to dandruff and scalp acne. Use a mild shampoo once or twice a week, followed by your preferable conditioner.

Once you’ve washed your hair, use a soft towel to remove the excess water, then let it dry naturally. Try to avoid any procedures and products that may cause damage to your hair, but if you’re struggling to tame it, then use a light serum.

Frizzy hair can easily get tangled, which then causes hair to break and a loss of volume. Avoid this by keeping your hair in a simple style, such as a high ponytail, a simple braid, or a neat bun.

Your hair is not worth you putting your health at risk, so before visiting a salon, ensure they are fully COVID-secure. Getting your hair trimmed regularly will rid you of split ends and any dryness in your hair.

While the nation is still socially distancing, it is good for our mental health to catch up with friends and get some fresh air. But don’t forget an umbrella (it is the British summertime after all), and remember to keep your hair dry.

If you’re looking for a COVID-secure hair salon in Brentwood, book an appointment today !

Make Up Lessons

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Tue, 04 Aug 2020 10:41:39 GMT

MAKE UP LESSONS

Make-up Lessons opens from August 1st

Finally we can open our Diary and teach our Make-up Lessons! After a long 4 months off, Our diary is busy and we already have 1-2-1 Lessons booked.

We will be announcing our Group 1 week professional Make-up Course dates when social distancing has relaxed.

We have purchased new make-up for our aspiring Mua’s to play with. From brands Bperfect, Nars, MAC and Doll Beauty.

Keep updated in this blog to see some bold looks we will be creating next week.

Yasmin xx

To Fringe Or Not To Fringe… That Is The Question

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Fri, 24 Jul 2020 15:13:07 GMT

With hair and beauty salons all over the country now starting to open their doors once again, as lockdown restrictions are gradually eased amid the global pandemic, no doubt you’re all feeling as though you need a bit of a style refresh. What better way to mark the end of lockdown than with a new haircut, after all?

Deciding what you want before you get there is probably a wise idea or you may find you throw serious caution to the wind, caught up in the excitement of being back in the salon chair once again, and end up with a drastic cut that you don’t like !

If you’re mulling over a fringe right now, make sure you do a little research of your own into the different styles so you can see what your options are and what you like. But you need to think about your face shape at the same time, as what looks great on one person may not suit you in quite the same way.

Talk to your hairdresser when you get there and ask them to think about your face shape so you end up with the best fringe line to flatter your face. If you have a round face, you might want to try a sweeping side fringe as this can help to create the illusion of length.

Those of you with longer, thinner faces could try something a little heavier - a full blunt fringe could look amazing. And a choppy textured fringe could be great if you have a heart-shaped face.

Need a hair boost? Call Essex blow dry bar Blush & Blow to make an appointment.

Why Now Is The Ideal Time To Learn To Blow Dry Your Hair

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Wed, 15 Jul 2020 15:27:52 GMT

Why Now Is The Ideal Time To Learn To Blow Dry Your Hair

If you’ve never quite got to grips with the skill of blow drying, you’re certainly not alone. We know there’s nothing quite like leaving the hairdresser after having a blow dry and feeling like a million dollars, but, for the time being at least, that’s a luxury we’ll all have to forgo.

Kat De Rozario, a stylist at Josh Wood Atelier, told Stylist that because of the changes being introduced as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, blow dries at the hair salon are likely to be off the cards, at least for a while.

“Due to the potential risk of the virus being transmitted through swift airflow and to reduce the time and volume of people in salons, what is apparent is the need to cut down, or out, blow drying the hair,” she asserted.

So, if you’re not able to go to your hairdresser to have a blow dry, what can you do? The solution might be simpler than you think: you could join an Essex blow dry course to teach you how to recreate that ‘just stepped out of the salon’ look in the comfort of your own home.

Of course, hairdressers across much of England reopened on 4 July, to many people’s delight. But they looked very different to the pre-Covid days, with stylists wearing PPE and customers asked to wear their own masks and gloves while in the salon.

Speaking to Wales Online , Tim Hartley, a former director at Vidal Sassoon, predicted that more women will opt for bob cuts and other low maintenance styles as a result of the new restrictions.

Lockdown Locks: Is Grey Here To Stay?

183:813730663 (Kirstie Maguire) — Mon, 29 Jun 2020 09:18:41 GMT

Lockdown Locks: Is Grey Here To Stay?

Banks may have shut, supermarkets run low on food, and schools closed their doors on pupils, but one of the first things people worried about when the government imposed lockdown was not being able to go to their salon for their regular touch-ups.

Ladies everywhere are used to scheduling their regular hair appointments, getting their nails done every few weeks, staying fuzz-free with frequent waxes, or making sure their brows and eyelashes remain in good condition. However, after their favourite beauticians had to close, they have been left to their own devices.

This has had mixed results, with many having to find creative ways to look after their lockdown locks. However, one trend that has emerged that could be here to stay is people embracing their grey roots.

Unable to get their silver tresses dyed professionally over the last couple of months, lots of people simply let their natural shade shine through – after all, self-isolating meant they weren’t exactly seeing anyone!

One fan of the #greyhair hashtag , which now has more than two million tags on Instagram, is Susan Delgado.

INews reported how she recently wrote on her social media account: “I’ve been dyeing my hair for as long as I can remember, maybe around 15 years. I think letting it grow out has been part of the laziness that’s been engendered by lockdown. Then it struck me how absurd it was to keep dyeing it.”

Celebrity stylish Ryan Kay also thinks this is a good time to experiment with different hair styles, including white roots.

Speaking with Manchester Evening News , the hair expert, who has worked with Lady Gaga in the past, said we should “embrace the grey” and give our locks a rest until salons open again.

If you can’t wait for an Essex blow dry, give us a call today .

What Is Olaplex?

Tue, 16 Jun 2020 12:09:16 GMT

Lockdown restrictions are becoming more and more relaxed as each day passes, which is a surefire sign that normality is starting to resume a little bit, with businesses around the country tentatively starting to open their doors once again.

Hair care has certainly had to slip over the last few months , with salons everywhere closed and people having to resort to giving themselves a chop if their locks are getting too out of control.

But hairdressers could start opening up to the public as early as July 4th, which is certainly a date to put in the diary if you’re struggling to see out from beneath a fringe or if your roots are down well past your ears right now.

Hair is likely to feel dry and out of condition, but there’s a very quick and easy way to breathe new life back into your tresses - and that’s Olaplex, a hair treatment that works to permanently rebuild hair damage, particularly that which has been caused by dyeing and colouring.

It contains a patented active ingredient that seeks out and repairs damaged and broken bonds in hair, allowing you to restore its elasticity, strength and integrity - exactly what you need when you step out on the town after quarantine.

If your hair hasn’t weathered lockdown well and you find it’s currently dry, brittle and damaged, this treatment could work serious wonders… leaving you with beautiful silky smooth and vibrant hair.

There’s nothing like getting a new look after a bit of upheaval and maybe post-lockdown is the perfect time to try out a brave new hairstyle or perhaps a different colour. For help with Olaplex in Essex, and any other hair care queries, get in touch with us today .