This therapy is the foundation of Keratin Complex – the original, in-salon service that infuses natural keratin deep into hair’s cuticle. This revolutionary therapy reduces frizz and curl and instantly adds amazing shine, silkiness and condition to the hair. The results are astounding. Clients rave that “this is a life-changing experience”. Hair is more manageable, smoother and easier to style than ever before. It is perfect on all types of hair – including color treated and chemically processed hair!

With Keratin Complex Smoothing Therapy, Keratin Complex now guarantees shiny, silky, healthy hair to clients around the world. You’ve read about this amazing innovation in fashion and beauty magazines and online. Now, isn’t it time you experience Keratin Complex Smoothing Therapy for yourself?

FAQs

Q: What is Keratin Complex Smoothing Therapy?
A: The Smoothing Therapy line is comprised of advanced, in-salon treatments that restore and restructure the hair by infusing a special blend of hydrolyzed keratin deep into the cuticle. The hydrolyzed keratin is bonded to the cuticle with heat from a flat iron to relax the hair’s subcuticle layer, resulting in renewed smoothness and shine.

Q: What is the difference between the Natural Keratin Smoothing Treatment and Express Blow Out?
A: Natural Keratin Smoothing Treatment, our signature Smoothing Therapy, was created especially for frizzy, curly texture and is effective on all hair types. It is a revitalizing and rejuvenating treatment that seals keratin into the cuticle to lock out frizz-causing humidity and reduce curl. One treatment gives long-lasting results for up to five months and requires a 72-hour waiting period post-treatment. Our newest Smoothing Therapy, Express Blow Out, is a unique, one-hour service that gives the hair a softer, smoother and silkier texture for up to six weeks. Hair can be washed after just eight hours. Express Blow Out is perfect for all hair types.

Q: How much time should be allowed for each client?
A: Time should be determined on an individual basis. Keratin Complex recommends an initial consultation with each client to determine hair length, type and texture. As a general rule, please allow a two- to three-hour window for the Natural Keratin Smoothing Treatment and a one-hour window for Express Blow Out.

Q: What results can be expected after the Natural Keratin Smoothing Treatment?
A: The hair will be more manageable and easy to style, and will be resistant to humidity. It will feel noticeably softer and silkier, with added life, shine and vibrance.

Q: Should the hair be colored before or after the treatment application?
A: A great time to have the treatment done is directly after permanent color, semi-permanent color or highlights. The treatment seals the color in, making it last longer and appear more vibrant. If you choose to have color applied after the treatment, we recommend waiting at least two weeks.

Q: Should the hair be cut before or after the treatment?
A: We recommend that the hair be cut after the treatment, as the hair will have a smoother texture and will lie differently.

Q: Can the treatments be done on chemically treated, relaxed or straightened hair?
A: Yes; in fact, the Smoothing Therapy treatments work to repair damage caused by chemical treatments. It is recommended to wait two weeks between any chemical services and adjust iron temperature based on hair type as listed in instructions.

Q: How many days after the Natural Keratin Smoothing Treatment before the hair can get wet or be washed?
A: You must wait three days (72 hours) before washing your hair or swimming.

Q: Can the hair be pulled back or clipped up during the 72-hour waiting period?
A: No. Avoid making any impressions on the hair from clips, ponytail holders, hats or sunglasses.

Q: What should be done if the hair gets wet during the 72-hour waiting period?
A: Blow-dry and flat iron with medium to low heat as soon as possible.

Q: What kind of shampoo and conditioner should be used?
A: Keratin Care Shampoo & Conditioner (sodium chloride-free formula) or Keratin Color Care Shampoo & Conditioner (sodium chloride- and sulfate-free formula).

Q: How often can the Smoothing Therapy treatments be performed?
A: The treatment can be done as often as every 4 to 6 weeks.

Q: Is the reapplication of the Smoothing Therapy treatments done on the entire head or just on the new growth?
A: Reapplication is done on the entire head.

Q: How long will the Smoothing Therapy treatment results last?
A: The Natural Keratin Smoothing Treatment lasts up to five months, and Express Blow Out up to six weeks, depending on lifestyle, maintenance and adherence to all aftercare instructions.

Q: What should I do to maintain my treatment results?
A: It’s important to use a sodium chloride-free shampoo, like Keratin Care Shampoo, which will not strip keratin from the hair. Intense Rx Ionic Keratin Protein Restructuring Serum contains 25% keratin protein and offers instant damage repair for split ends and breakage. Infusion Keratin Replenisher replenishes keratin when used as a daily styling aid, while hydrating and creating a smooth, shiny finish. The new Style Therapy styling product collection works in harmony with our Smoothing Therapy treatments to main results while improving the hair’s styling capabilities.

Q: Can the treatments be done on pregnant or nursing women?
A: It is not recommended.

Q: Does Keratin Complex provide technical support?
A: Yes, we are here to answer your questions. For all consumer inquiries, please email keragirls@keratincomplex.com and we will respond as soon as possible.

Learn More >

That's What She Said

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

Nadine Comeau
BTC Facebook Fan
Albion, PA

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

Hikari Shears and Shear Sharpening by Pat Wedge

Are your shears not cutting or sharp enough?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Microderamabrasion

…for smoother younger looking skin

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Is microdermabrasion safe?
Yes, very safe. This is a shallow depth treatment and is safe and effective for many skin types and conditions.

Does it help acne?
Yes. It has been found to be very effective for both active and cystic acne. Microdermabrasion is even appropriate for treating teenage acne.

Does it remove scars?
Scars may respond very well to microdermabrasion. Results vary based on several factors such as the age of the scar, depth of the scar tissue, individual skin types, location and the care given to the area between treatments.

Can it help get rid of stretch marks?
Currently there are numerous practices and physicians in the country using this therapy for the treatment of stretch marks. The consensus is that the newer the stretch mark, the better the response seems to be. In most cases, improvement is seen to some degree. A consultation would be recommended in order to better assess the degree of improvement that might be gained.
Will I need time to recuperate?
No. You may return to your normal activities immediately following the procedure. If you so desire, you may re-apply your makeup immediately after the procedure.

You may experience some pink or slightly red areas, which should fade quickly. If you desire a treatment which leaves you with no redness at all, the technician can adjust the machine in order to give you a very light peel. It is important to note that “redder is better” in the end in that it leads to enhanced dermal circulation and stimulation of collagen production within the dermis. The degree of redness you experience will be directly related to the amount of stimulation during the procedure.
Does it work on wrinkles?
Superficial fine lines and wrinkles respond well to microdermabrasion. Deep wrinkles or dynamic lines may be softened somewhat, but cannot be completely resolved through microdermabrasion. Other treatments such as Botox injections, laser resurfacing and/or surgical facelifts may be necessary to achieve more dramatic results.

Can this replace laser treatment?
No. If your degree of wrinkling is such that laser resurfacing is needed, microdermabrasion may not give you the results you hope to achieve; however, microdermabrasion therapy may be recommended following laser to help maintain results and resolve resulting hyperpigmentation.
Does is get rid of sun spots or skin discoloration?
Yes. It can be very effective in removing unwanted pigmentation, sun damage and uneven skin color and tone. In some cases, the doctor may recommend a prescription product to enhance the results of microdermabrasion. Sun protection is essential when treating skin discoloration disorders. A sun block will be required during and after the treatment.

Leg wax

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

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

Cost:
Supplies $25.00
Wax Pot $29.00

Here’s How:

1. Buy waxing kit. Compare waxing kit prices.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

11. Well done. Congratulate yourself!

Tips:

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

Wella Hair Color

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

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

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

Eyebrow Waxing

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

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

Essential Pedicure

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Steps for the pedicure itself include:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Shellac manicures and pedicures resist chipping and fading and can last as long as three weeks. Usually the manicure will need to be touched up or redone because new nail growth is showing, similar to acrylic nails, and not because the nails are showing wear. One of the other distinct advantages is the quick drying time. By using the UV lamp between each layer, the product is dried and hardened instantly, eliminating wet nail smudges and dents.

Shellac nails are applied just like nail polish, but with multiple products and layers. The Shellac base coat must be used to start, then the nail polish color layers, then a special gel topcoat. Between each layer, the nails are placed under a 36 watt UV or LED lamp to harden the product. Shellac nails are applied in a salon by professional nail technicians. For those with allergy and chemical concerns, Shellac does not contain formaldehyde, toluene or DBP.

Shellac nail products are applied in nail and beauty salons by professional nail technicians. Expect to pay about double what a normal manicure would cost, which is around $ 40 – $ 60 USD in most markets. If you would like to purchase shellac yourself, the products can be found at Beauty Store Depot, Nail Beauty 4U and Amazon.

One of the criticisms of Shellac nail polish is that compared to other gel nail products, like Gelish or Axxium, the colors are much more limited. One of the advantages of gel nail products though is the ability to layer different colors and get a totally unique nail polish color without it looking muddy. Shellac offers a chart on their website showing the different color combinations and the new colors you can make by layering.

Removing gel nails requires more effort than removing a regular manicure, but is not nearly as abrasive as the sanding and clipping required to remove acrylic nails. After a light buff to break the seal, nails are soaked in acetone for about 15 minutes to soften the gel. Once the gel is soft, it can easily be scraped off. Shellac sells special Remover Wrap with a pad that is soaked in acetone and adhesive to hold it in place on your finger or toe. You can also get similar results using cotton pads soaked in acetone and then wrapped with foil to hold them in place. Acetone is very harsh, so be sure to cover your work surface and try to keep it off of your surrounding skin.