THE BEST OF AVEDA

Like most other big brand-names in hair, Aveda just has way too many products! How many hair products do we really need? Well, let me share a secret with you. Shhh...


The idea behind this is the more choices, the more products the consumer will try, and if for some reason you get bored with one product, you don't have to switch brands. There’s enough to choose from so you won’t go astray.



It’s the similar pitch when a hairstylist recommends you five products. Chances are you won't buy all five, but four or three. So if you're recommended three you may only take one, and nobody needs only one product…do they? Lol!



After working with this line for eight months, here are the products you should have. Keep in mind with Aveda, a lot or readers either love the smells or hate them.



The Phomollient: This is a styling liquid foam that adds shine and volume. I use this product on all hair types actually, especially on men with wavy hair. It contains honey, plant fibers, and rice.



Smooth infusion styling prep: This is a great product to blow dry curly hair straight. If you have super-thick hair and like to air dry, apply some if this to the hair and hand-style as desired. It's not too heavy or greasy and rinses off easily.




Scalp Remedy Dandruff Solution: Rumor in the village is that this is a miracle product and helps quickly with dryness and irritation of the scalp. They canot keep it on the shelf!


Retexturing Gel: One of my favorites for adding a little lift at the roots for blow drying and to men's hair that's longer and wavy. It's easy to apply and not as flakey as some gels. If you use a curl cream and wear your hair naturally, add a little of this to your cream for extra hold and definition.



Damage Control: Hold on, this is another of my favorites!! Love, love, love this. All hair types, all ages, all races, men and women. It's a light leave-in conditioner that works.
With men in mind-

Control Paste: It’s similar to Sumotech by Bumble and Bumble and the paste by Shu Uemura. It's ideal for men's hair without leaving it too shiny.

Pure Performance Exfoliating Shampoo: guys, you would love the way these smell, feel, and the finish they leave in your hair. This shampoo helps remove build-up of waxes and pastes.


Well, there you have it. These are my personal favorites. I'm sure if you're familiar with this line you may already have yours. For the people who have always wanted to try Aveda but were confused by the many choices, I hope this was helpful to you.



The editing of this blog was done by Camile Lamb of the Perfect Words,Ink.

Posted by Unknown at 2:46 PM - 0 comments

THANK YOU FOR CHANGING THE WORLD OF HAIR VIDAL SASSOON

I just heard about the death of Vidal Sassoon and my prayers are with the family. Vidal Sassoon changed the way we see hair forever and I know hairstylists world wide will be mourning his loss. Vidal Sassoon we all love you.

Posted by Unknown at 1:05 PM - 0 comments

FIGHTING DRY HAIR

In a world bombarded with hair care products, it’s obvious there is a big demand for healthier hair. As it stands, we are a “drying” race. :)



What happened? At what point did things change for the worse?



Having a great view of things from behind the chair and having seen hair products come and go, I would like to share with you my thoughts of the good, the bad, and the ugly in hair care and habits which can cause you to have damaged hair.



Cheap shampoos and conditioners: Rumor is that it does not matter what shampoo and conditioner you use. This is DEAD WRONG! It makes all the difference in the world and I have seen it proven over and over again.



Yes, I know a good shampoo and conditioner can be expensive, but they’re worth it. If you are on a budget, try having two fewer cocktails or one less dinner at a restaurant and save up for a bottle of Kérastase Age Recharge shampoo or Chroma Riche.



Bad hair brushes: So many women have those evil plastic brushes with the little plastic balls at the end. Generally, when you look at one it's full of hair, right? These brushes are very harsh on the hair and the bristles are so stiff that the hair just snaps.




I want you to get up right now, put on some eye shadow, a little lip gloss, and go purchase a large tooth comb to detangle your hair (when it's wet). While you're at it, buy a paddle brush to follow up with after detangling with the comb. The paddle brush is also good for blow drying. I highly recommend you get "your Colorists favorite brush".


And if you can skip the cocktails for two months (the horror) I strongly suggest you invest

in a Mason Pearson brush. This brush will make love to your hair! The bristles move with the hair and they’re gentle on the scalp.



Blow drying or flat ironing without products on the hair: Although the hair may be wet when you are blow drying, that's not enough to battle the heat of the blow dryer. Try turning the dryer on and putting it against your skin... That’s right, she's hot! Your poor hair, sniff sniff...



Always, always apply product to your hair before blow drying and especially before flat ironing!



Hair color: I don't have to go in to too much detail with this one. If it’s a chemical, it's hard on your hair.



Tanning salons: Especially if your hair is dry and color treated, I recommended applying some UV protection to your hair and covering your hair with a towel or a cap.



Pulling or twirling your ends when bored: I was in traffic the other day, and in the car across from me there was a woman pulling her hair over and over, and pulling at her damaged ends. This does not help matters, so leave your poor hair alone! ;)



Rubber bands, harsh fabric/nylon hair bands, and those big metal clips covered in rhinestones: The rhinestones alone will make your hair want to curl up and die!! Use softer fabric hair bands or scarves.



Salt water: As much as it may look and feel good on the hair,


the salt is munching away at your hair shaft. I know someone who had color treated hair and had the best in hair care products, but her hair still broke because of swimming in the ocean three times a week. All 10 inches of it!



We the hairstylists: Too much heat on your highlights, metal brushes, putting the nozzle of the dryer against the hair, too many Keratin treatments, very high volume peroxide in the bleach, and constantly overlapping hair color when doing touch-ups. Keep in mind that when you are having a touch-up, it may be necessary to only color the new growth not coloring over the previously colored hair. Especially if you're using permanent color to cover the roots (gray hair), a demi permanent color can be used on the ends. Demi permanent dyes contains less peroxide and no ammonia and are more gentle on the porous ends.



Ladies, keep in mind that you can have healthy hair, but it's impossible to have it all. So if you are obsessed with being a bleached blond, then your hair will be dry. If you are not taking suggestions from your trusted hairstylist and buying professional hair products, your hair will be dry. It's simple: if you neglect your hair, the result is a cupboard full of hair products aimed at the impossible goal of resuscitating it.



I wish you healthy, beautiful hair!

The editing of this blog was done by Camile Lamb of the Perfect Words,Ink.

Posted by Unknown at 7:28 AM - 0 comments

ANTONIO GONZALES RETURNING TO ORLO SALON NYC.

I am very happy to share with my readers that I will soon be returning to New York City! On the first of June, I will be resuming my position at the wonderful Orlo salon,

owned by our favorite hairstylist Orlando Pita.
As usual, I will keep you up to date with all the latest from our industry with articles, images, and soon videos.



Working at Orlo not only gives me the opportunity to learn firsthand what happens in the beauty industry (Orlando's work).
It also allows me to keep my focus on honesty and quality first. After being away from NYC for over a year and living in Miami, I have had the opportunity to fall in love with New York like never before. I have also had the chance to find my new love in volunteering.



In the past year, I was privileged to work with a wonderful group of young ladies at Casa Valentina and to share my views on the importance of individuality and how beauty is still just “skin deep.”
I also had the opportunity to meet the wonderful nurses at Oceanside Extended Care in South Beach, where I gave free haircuts to the very sick patients.
I can't begin to describe how it felt to see someone who can't walk or speak stare at themselves in the mirror as I cut their hair. Their resulting smiles left me feeling a huge sense of gratitude.



Together with my new friend in Miami,
I was also able to collect donations and make sandwiches for sometimes more than 200 homeless people in downtown Miami every six weeks or so. I'm looking forward to recruiting friends in NYC to do the same for the homeless there.



I share this because the gift of giving came to me at a very difficult time in my life. As they say, the only way to true happiness is gratitude and learning to appreciate how fortunate we are.


So thanks again to my readers and I'll see you in the Big Apple! ;)




Posted by Unknown at 8:18 PM - 0 comments

THE VIDEO OF MY NIECES IN TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO WAS ON ELLEN'S DANCE OR DARE

Posted by Unknown at 7:08 PM - 0 comments

THE RE-LAUNCH OF INOA BY LOREAL

Hairstylists and clients, this is what happens when we all collaborate and share valuable information on new hair products that do not live up to expectations. I'm talking about Loreál Inoa hair color, and to think I only just mentioned this product in My last article.


As we all know, they launched a few years ago with "celebrity hairstylists," making claims that it was the best thing since stilettos!! Sadly, we the consumers felt differently.



Now I'm excited to say that they have taken Inoa back to the drawing board. She's been revamped and the re-launch is around the corner.



So what's new about new Inoa?



Children, as you know, I'm not about the scientific details; I'm about the delivery, the outcome and the va-voom! But what I do know is that the redesigned Inoa system is simpler for me and my comrades to use. The colors are better and the fading has been reduced. All in all, we can deliver to our clients a product that's safer on the scalp, hair, and nose, and that works better than the previous version.



So if you're inclined to try a color that’s better for your hair, come see us and try this new “Inoa-vation” for yourself!



So what does this mean for the other colors that we use?



Well, to change your hair color brand is always a decision between you and your hairstylist. We will first determine if your hair needs can be met with Inoa. There’s no need to get rid of all the other hair colors. Variety is the spice of life baby!



Yours truly,

Antonio Gonzales



The editing of this blog was done by Camile Lamb of the Perfect Words,Ink.

Posted by Unknown at 6:33 PM - 0 comments

IS YOUR HAIR BEING BOTOXED??

In the past, we have seen product companies go to any length to attract consumers by using enticing words or ingredients to help generate new interest in their hair products. I always enjoy the creative ways they use packaging and the media to help promote their new and exciting offerings.

We have seen many examples of this in the past. Knowing that our culture has become more age-conscious, they started using words like “age recharge,” “age defying,” and “time reset,” just to name a few. Then, with all the media on celebrities losing weight, products bombarded the market with promises to make even your hair slimmer, skinnier, or leaner. And it does not end there. If there is a vegetable or fruit that's thought of as healthy to eat, it’s quickly added to shampoos, conditioners and hair colors. Before you know it, all the other companies join in and we have hair products with acai, fruit acids, avocado, and whatever nut or oil is all the rage at the time. I'm surprised we don't have a kale or cilantro shampoo on the market already. :)

Well, apparently it's time to take it one step further. Companies are now using plastic surgery culture as a way to promote hair products. Are you ready for this? Here it is:

HAIR BOTOX!

You heard me right, children! After hearing about this and doing some basic research here's what I know. Loreál first launched it as an in-salon treatment designed to save your hair and scalp. Terms like "feed your hair" "scalp TLC" and "scale back the stress" are being used describe the product. Companies would have you believe that it's been used for some time now on celebrities, and that they love it. I don't know for sure because I have not seen it endorsed by any actual celebrity.

Okay, let's get down to business here. I have never used it and will wait some time before I touch it. Personally, as a hairstylist I can't keep up with all the new hair products that promises to make everyone look and feel younger. I mean, really – are we that desperate!? Lol!

Here's what I do know.

1) I have heard these promises before by other product companies.

2) Having seen other products hit the market with enormous press and branding and then disappear shortly thereafter, I have to be a bit skeptical. Look at "Inoa” hair color, for example. There was all sorts of buzz about this “amazing” ammonia free hair color when it was launched, but where is it now? Where will hair botox be in a few years? And where will your hair be?

3) Once you say a celebrity uses a product, everyone wants it. I wouldn’t act on such rumored endorsements until I had a personal conversation with that celebrity,

if I were you.

4) As we’ve seen with many other big brand name “hair care miracles,” smaller companies are already flooding the market with their versions. We know for a fact that once this swarm of knock-offs hit the market, the quality of a product is never the same.

5) Now that everyone is doing it and it's so easily accessible, some stylists start to stray from the manufacturer’s directions, leaving the client at risk.

6) In a culture consumed by quick results, it will probably now take the place of Keratin (for some salons), and will run its course before the next craze takes over. So let's wait for the reviews.

I recently had the opportunity to see models who had had their hair "botoxed," and the results varied. Please keep in mind that it was NOT LOREÁL BOTOX. One had frizzy, curly, damaged hair, and she liked the results but will stick to Keratin in the future. Keratin allows her to achieve straighter results, which she prefers.

The other also had damaged hair, and was not happy with the end result. Her hair was in worse condition afterward. As a hairstylist, I know many things can affect the results of a product, so until I have it in my own hands, it's hard to say whether I like it or not.

Women with healthy hair (and you do exist!), keep up the good work. We all know there’s only one way for you to end up with unhealthy hair, and that's mistreating it by blow drying too much and tacking on too many chemical services.

Well my lovelies, how's that for honesty?

Let me know your thoughts.

Antonio

The editing of this blog was done by Camile Lamb of the Perfect Words,Ink.

Posted by Unknown at 2:58 PM - 0 comments

Ombre Or not to Ombre?

My friends, I come to you today to discuss an exciting hair color technique that took the country by storm. For some, the storm hit four years ago and ran its course. Others got swept away by the storm just over a year ago. And for the rest of the population, well, they are just now realizing that there was a storm (and they want their share!).


I am talking about the Ombré hair color technique. For those of you who don't know, “Ombré” is a French word that describes hair color that transitions from light to dark or from one color to another. It has long been used to describe fabric colors, but has recently been applied to describe hair color as well.




Many celebrities embraced the Ombré with the help of their hair masters, creating dynamic personalized hair colors suited to their hair texture, skin tone and lifestyle.


I am sure you have seen it, women with dark roots and ends that gradually get lighter. Even women with very dark hair are enjoying this fad, complimenting their tresses with a lighter tone on the ends of their hair. Now, this doesn’t just apply to dark haired lovelies; the Ombré technique can work for light brown ladies as well, and you can even change your root color for more color effect. Ombré gives a fresh, sun-kissed appearance with a little more punch! Many women embraced this color technique with open arms, pushing aside the foiled highlights or the baliage (French hair painting technique).


As I researched the topic online, I saw that some are swearing that it’s over, saying it’s time to move on. I am all about individuality and personalized self-expression, and I still do ombré if I feel the client’s hair, together with my talent, can bring something special to the table.

Many of my very talented friends in Manhattan who are great colorists are giving their clients beautiful, personalized Ombré. So ladies what it comes down to is this:


1) No one can tell you how you should wear your hair.

2) This hair color technique may not be the most current anymore, but that doesn’t mean it’s off-limits.

3) If hairstylists think it’s becoming overdone, will we be willing to refuse clients the ombré? Hardly likely.


You all know I am an advocate of individuality and self expression, but here's the challenge: hairstylists and clients alike are saying “It’s too much already!” Is it? Of course it’s for you to decide for yourself, but keep in mind a few things:

1) Although it’s a beautiful effect, are you going to end up looking just like the girl next to you?


2) Maybe it has run its course and it’s time for variety to return, moving away from the Ombré helmet.

3) As a hairstylist, I can't tell you how many women are coming into the salon asking for this hair color technique. Soon everyone and their Poodle will be wearing it!

4) There are so many versions of ombre I'm seeing walking down the street – some of it’s not even proper Ombré! Its like if Ombre slept with a single process and some chunky highlights and they gave birth to a hot mess!!

5) Do you, the client, still want to have it done after all you now know?



So ladies, here we have it. I promise we will be touching on this topic again, and I look forward to hearing your thoughts.

Posted by Unknown at 9:54 AM - 0 comments

5 TOP MISTAKES WOMEN MAKE WHEN CHOOSING A SALON.

Here are some common hair salon myths I’m thrilled to bust before your beauty-loving eyes:

1) The fancier the salon, the better it is.

Have you heard of the term “smoke and mirrors?” Well in this case, it’s more like “chandeliers and mirrors.”

There have always been beautiful salons across the world since the early 1900s. What's different today is that fancier salons are considered "better." This is not necessarily true. It is important to remember that the purpose of a hair salon is to provide you with a clean, professional environment and the best hair service possible. When you leave the salon, you should feel inspired and happy with your hair.

A talented hairstylist is just that. A great hair salon should be able to sell itself without the experience of a boutique hotel. Do you want to pay for a quality haircut and also pay for the champagne, tea and crumpets? If that's what you're looking for, then please enjoy. But don’t let those little perks distract you from getting what you truly want from your salon – great hair!!!

2) You should go to a salon because someone who works there is advertised as a celebrity hairstylist.

Please keep in mind that the one sure way for us hairstylists to get more attention is to say we have touched a celebrity. When this happens, we are instantly pushed into another dimension. This puts us in the public eye and allows us to charge more.

Having had the opportunity to work on the occasional celebrity has been a wonderful experience, and yes, it has helped my career. However, I'm not a “celebrity hairstylist,” and yes, that is a disclaimer! LOL! (I do work for one though.)

If you are looking for a celebrity hairstylist experience that will knock your shoes off, then I encourage you to pursue that. There are many to choose from, but do your research. People may advertise themselves as such, but many may not have touched a celebrity for many years. While living in Miami for the last year, I met so many “celebrity hairstylists” that I had never heard of, I couldn’t even keep count! Remember, celebrity stylists aren’t supposed to award themselves that status; if they have earned it, the public will give them the title.

3) You should seek a "celebrity experience" (or to be treated like a celebrity) when you get your hair services.

To be honest, if you are not a celebrity, then your haircut can’t be a "celebrity experience." (I crack myself up.) And what does that mean anyway? Ladies, you deserve the best because you are fabulous individuals, each with assets that only you possess. The experience you deserve entails getting great hair, respect, your money’s worth, and a hairstylist that will tell you the truth, rather than someone who will think of your wallet first.


4) A referral from a friend is a guarantee that you’ll love the salon too.

I will say that I love my dentist, my doctor, and my personal trainer, but that does not mean any one of them is right for you. My clients love me, but that does not mean I'm right for all of their friends either. I recommend taking a referral from someone who has similar hair, especially if your hair is curly, fine, or short. And even then, remember that a referral is no guarantee you’ll love the place or the stylist, though it is a step in the right direction.

Another important aspect of your salon experience, apart from your being happy with your hair, is the connection between you and the hairstylist. Let's face it: it's a relationship in the making, so the vibe between you and your potential stylist is important.

You may also find a hairstylist that you can hardly bear to be around, but who gives you kick-ass results. In case that case, it's for you to decide whether or not your hair is worth the headache.

Before seeing the recommended hairstylist, go in for a consultation. Your first impression will probably tell you what you need to know before you decide whether or not to proceed with that particular pro.

5) You found a salon had great reviews on an online search engine, so they’ll obviously give you great hair.

Okay, this one is the best of all! Rumor has it that some hairstylists ask their friends to write reviews for them online. It's hilarious! Once upon a time, strong online reviews were a great thing. Then it started working against hairstylists – particularly the ones with overblown online reviews – because clients’ equally inflated expectations were not being met.

I always say, the proof is in the pudding. You need to see it and taste it for yourself to know how good it is.

The editing of this blog was done by Camile Lamb of the Perfect Words,Ink.

Posted by Unknown at 2:05 PM - 1 comments

HOW MANY HAIR PRODUCTS DO YOU REALLY NEED?

How many times have you left a hair salon with a bag of hair products and regretted it? How many times have you had the embarrassing feeling that comes with having to say no to products at the reception desk when they’ve already charged you for them? Or even worse, how many times have you just bought the products because of the pressure, even though you really can't afford them?

You may be asking yourself, how could he, a stylist, write about this? Well, why not? It is important that our clients get the products that will truly help their hair look great and stay healthy. It’s crucial that we stylists recommend what we know truly works best – not what works best for our bottom lines. Whether it’s purchased from the salon or online, what’s important is that clients get what they really need, as recommended by professionals.

Sadly not all hairstylists think this way. Here's a must-have survival guide, just for you, on how to make it through the product ambush alive!

1) First let me say that your hairstylist is the one who should be recommending products to you. Not the man at the health food store or the lady at your local pharmacy.

2) Before going in for your next salon visit, I highly recommend making a list of the products you have at home. When your hairstylist recommends a new product to you, show them the list and ask if these products can do the job. Your hairstylist may like the products you already have as much as the ones he or she is now recommending.

3) Ladies, keep in mind that product companies know that hairstylists sometimes get bored of the same old products. They are human and can easily be taken in by new packaging and smells. So the product companies keep making new products to excite the hairstylist, even though they may not be significantly different or better than the old ones. And where do you think those new products will end up? On your vanity (or sink top), if many stylists have their ways! My lovely ladies, chances are the product you already have can do the job.

Your hair is not going to combust if you don't change your products every month.

4) Keep in mind that it is a norm in our industry that hairstylists get a commission on product sales. “Oh no he did not just go there!” “Oh yes he did!” I know this because I once had HPPS (Hair product pimp syndrome) myself.

5) Shampoos and conditioners: Every woman should have one shampoo and one daily conditioner to suit her hair type. Sometimes it is recommended to get a second shampoo and alternate, especially if you use a lot of styling products and need to deep clean the hair once a week to remove buildup. If you have color treated hair then a hair mask is recommended.

6) Every lady should also have two or three styling products to maintain her hair type and style. Here are the products you should focus on for your hair type. (This will depend on whether you blow dry hair or not.) Keep in mind that my line up of products may not be for you. This is where your trusted hairstylist comes in.

Fine virgin hair: A product for volume and a hairspray.

Fine, dry, color-treated hair: Very light leave-in conditioner, a product for volume and a hairspray. Depending on how dry the hair is, a mask may be needed.

Medium hair texture, virgin: Mousse or liquid spray for hold, high-grade silicone for the ends, and hairspray.

Medium hair texture that is color-treated: Same as above, plus a light leave-in conditioner.

Medium hair texture, curly/frizzy: Curl cream and high-grade silicone for frizz. If you blow dry straight then you need a smoothing cream or smoothing polish, high grade silicone, and a finishing spray.

Thick coarse straight hair, virgin: Styling product for blow drying and a finishing cream or silicone.

Thick coarse hair, curly/frizzy: Curl cream and high-grade silicone for frizz. If you blow dry straight, you need a smoothing cream or smoothing polish, high-grade silicone and a finishing spray. A hair mask is also highly recommended!

The focus should be on the client’s hair care needs first, rather than what's in their pockets. As a hairstylist, it is my job to help your hair look great and teach you how to maintain the cut/style. It is also my job to suggest products that you need to support your hair type and your hair cut or color.

Ladies, I hope this was helpful! I wish you the absolute best for your pursuit of the most fabulous hair products, without breaking the bank!

The editing of this blog was done by Camile Lamb of the Perfect Words,Ink.

Posted by Unknown at 5:14 PM - 0 comments

BLOND NIGHTMARE

What is it about blond hair that will make a woman sacrifice money, time, and even risk the very existence of her hair leaving her it over processed?


When I see a woman with hair that's very dry, yellow, and has "bangs" that were created by breakage, that's one versi0n of over-processed hair. Anyone can see that woman coming through the crowd. She possesses a confidence that comes with striking blond tresses that turn heads as they enter any room. The problem is that no one (not even her hairdresser) has informed her that her beautiful blond locks are no more.




What happened?

Generally the story goes like this...
Let's give our blond-chaser a name. We'll call her Esta.

Esta may have started with a few natural-looking highlights, but over the years she fell more and more in love with the brightness against her skin, noticing the sun-kissed sparkle it gave her face.

Then, before you know it, BAM! A serious case a blond-orexia developed!

Esta may have seen the red flags: the beginning of breakage, fewer compliments, and more concern from loved ones, for example. However, she ignored the signs, and now her hair has the tensile strength of cotton candy.

Who's to blame?

Along the way, Esta may have asked questions like, "Am I over doing it?" "Should I stop with the blond?" or "What product can repair my hair instantly?"

I have seen many clients like Esta over the years in the salon. I have seen them walk out with hundreds of dollars in products, subscribing to empty promises of their hair being restored. Honey, we all know you cant wake the dead!

This is where her hairstylist comes in. The only person who could have stopped this breakage backlash was her trusted hair professional. Don't get me wrong; clients play a role in the mistreatment of their hair. Still, the hairstylist should ultimately be held accountable and sent to "hairstylist prison."

Why should the hairstylist be held accountable?

Um... Hello!?! Who colored her hair? Who was the one selling her the products? And who was the one banking the dollars from the ever-faithful blond? Le Coiffeur, that's who!

Listen ladies, I have met so many women that have had this hair mishap, and you have a right to know that this could have been avoided. You also have the right to know when enough is enough. Remember, there's nothing sexier than healthy, beautiful hair.

How to solve this problem?

At this point stop and ask yourself which is more important: the appearance of blond hair, even though you are turning heads for all the wrong reasons, or checking yourself in to hair rehab and leaving the bald look for those edgy punk-rocker girls? In my opinion, the right choice is to change your hair color to a softer shade before it's too late. By "too late" I mean before the hair is so stripped that it loses its ability to absorb color, meaning you will make multiple visits to the salon and spend loads of money, and still not get it quite right.

If you are willing to take my advice heres how we start (it's hair therapy time!): First, put on some lipstick and high-kick the salon door wide open, making your presence known. Talk to your hairstylist and ask for help to resolve the issue. If you would like to start the journey to healthier hair, here are my personal recommendations.

Go back to natural.

1) Get Kerastase Forcintense treatment and follow the directions. I know, I know, I did say you can't wake the dead (smile). However, you can protect the hair from the hair color to come, and restore the hair to a somewhat natural color. Don't expect miracles- let's just focus on keeping the hair you have.

2) Consult with your hairstylist first about the process. Your hairstylist was the one who got you into trouble, but keep in mind he may not be the one to bring you back. Keep in mind it will take more than a couple of hours to get the old you back. It probably took years to get you to this point, so be patient. Most importantly the process of "going back to natural" that has beautiful tones and some shine can not be achieved in one application.

Here is a brief look at what has to happen with the application:

A hair filler- The hair has no pigment, so before applying the desired hair color, it has to have red and gold color added to the hair to stop it from becoming muddy or ashy. The filler is generally a semi or demi color.

The desired color- After getting the filler right, which a may take a couple of applications, the hair is either towel-dried or blow-dried. The color is then applied. The hair stylist will use his or her best judgement on where to start the color application. Generally the ends of the hair are avoided because they are the most damaged and may grab the color too quickly.


3) After having the color restored, be very careful and avoid tanning salons, steam rooms, swimming pools and the ocean. Invest in hair brushes that are gentle on the hair (like a Mason Pearson) and a gentle hair dryer like the T-3 Featherweight. (That dryer is kick-ass!)

Please keep in mind that the process of ruining your hair was not cheap so it will cost a lot to fix it. This process takes time and loads of product.

Remember, a woman's strongest asset is her individuality, so being different is wonderful - but not at the cost of your hair.

The editing of this blog was done by Camile Lamb of the Perfect Words,Ink.

Posted by Unknown at 2:48 PM - 0 comments

HAIR TO HELP.

I've always felt that my true love was being a hairstylist, and I still feel that way. With my move to Miami (over a year ago), I found another love that equally satisfies me. It may not be as glamorous as creating a beautiful hairstyle in a fabulous location, and there's no money to be made (literally zero dollars). However, it makes my heart beat as it did on my first day of fashion week in NYC, as I watched Orlando demonstrate a master piece.

Here's another link to more of Orlando's work.

Let me share one of my latest loves: meet Casa Valentina. Casa Valentina is a non-profit organization that addresses the unique, gender-specific needs of young women transitioning from foster care to independent living. On my first month in Miami, I was lucky enough to meet Sheila Lehrman and her wonderful family. I mentioned to Sheila that I am interested in helping any group of women that needs my services and is open to a little beauty workshop.

Sheila said, "Wait, wait, wait! I know just the place!!!" When she described Casa Valentina to me, I knew I just had to go.



Over the year, I have been able to not only visit them in person, but also to have companies like Vitacare, and DaCuore donate products to Casa Valentina.

On my recent visit with girls, we focused on the theme that "Individuality is a woman's strongest asset." I asked each girl to tell me what her favorite color was. Some said black, like their skin; one girl said blue, like the ocean, which reminds her of her happiest times. They all stressed that they held those colors close to their hearts and would not change them for the world!


I quickly agreed - that's the same way I feel about my favorite color orange. It's my choice and I'm not changing it, no matter what someone else thinks! I asked the girls, if I told them to change their color to a color that I thought suited them, would they do it?

They said "No way."

I went on to explain that this was my point exactly: The way we look (hair, skin color, lips) and our tastes in fashion, are all parts of our individuality.

Every woman has the right to express herself, even with the smallest detail, in a way that sets her apart. At this point, I had their full attention. I asked them a very important question: Were they basing their individual tastes on what they saw on TV and in magazines?

The answer was a big YES! I quickly followed by asking, are their times they they would like to just Express themselves (through fashion and hair) in a way they feel at that very moment? Again the answer was a big YES! Well why don't you I asked?

I went on to urge these young women (as I do all young women) to find that something special that they love about themselves and own it, no matter what the media says. Women: You don't have be part of a large group, all looking the same. That goes for hairstyles, bags, shoes, and even lips! There are already too many Kim Kadashians walking around our streets. Don't get me wrong; as individuals, we have the right to follow a trend, too. Every woman can be brave and express herself with a certain color, hairstyle, retro or vintage clothing, or even just going all-natural with her hair and face.

As we continued discussing the idea of individuality, the girls really started to understand my point. One girl had flaming red hair, which she loves! I loved the fact that it may have been inspired by Rihanna, but she was daring enough to make it even brighter and have it braided. She still made it her own.

The lesson with trends is to look at them, enjoy them, and know that they exist. Women: You can follow trends, but look around you and see how many others are wearing the same bag, shoes, jeans, big purse and hairstyle. Let's show our younger generation that one of the biggest gifts is "individuality."

As Madonna once said, "Express yourself!".



I wish you all true beauty and self love!!

The editing of this blog was done by Camile Lamb of the Perfect Words,Ink.

Posted by Unknown at 10:03 AM - 0 comments

HAIRSTYLISTS LETS TRY AND BE THE CHANGE WE WANT TO SEE IN THE WORLD

For the past four years, I have been blogging about most things beauty related. As time passed and my experience progressed creatively and, more importantly, personally, it has brought about a change in my writing and my perception of beauty that continues to evolve to this day.

Professional change:

As my last experience in NYC, I worked for one of the best hairstylists in the world at O'rlo Salon (Orlando Pita). Working at O'rlo salon along with George Casson and Joey Martino was a life changing adventure in many ways. Let me explain.

When I interviewed for the job at O'rlo, I was interviewed by Orlando himself, which is unheard of in my industry at that level. Orlando said "I've looked over your resume, and congrats on being featured in Allure magazine, but why make a change now?"

My answer was simple. I promptly replied by saying "There's so much more to hair that I have not experienced." Orlando smiled.

Little did I know I was in for a hair-raising experience, literally! Working at O'rlo was easily the most challenging endeavor of my career. I was shown a side of hair styling that left me humbled. The message was clear: being a good hairstylist consists of three major things.

One is your God-given skills (Orlando was self-taught).

Two is that quality comes first. I was encouraged to do half my usual amount of clients on a daily basis, but to do all the work myself (no assistant doing my color or blow-drys).

And three is that as a good hairstylist, it's all about producing the best quality work possible. Put skill and quality first, and then money after. In other words, a great haircut should be able to stand on its own, without the help of smoke and mirrors


(and chandeliers, marble bathrooms, and chinaware, for that matter). What can I say? There's only one Orlo.

Yes, I was blessed with clients who would sacrifice financially to afford my prices, in exchange for my creative view. And I also enjoyed my success outside of the salon (editorial, Fashion Week, etc.). However, I always felt like something was missing. My co-workers and friends knew it too, because I did not keep it a secret.

That leads me to my next topic.

Personal change:

After moving to Miami and having some time off to reflect, what was missing came to me like a hurricane. As much as I enjoy working on women who can afford to have their hair done, what about the women (young and old) who can't afford everyday luxuries like clothes, food, and a place to live? Does this make them "less beautiful" than others?

As I came to the crossroad of my love-hate relationship with my purpose as a Hairstylist, I realized my biggest challenge would be to exist in an industry that sends this clear message: that to be beautiful, you must look a certain way.



I've decided to commit to finding a way to break away from this fallacy.

This quickly brought about my new mantra. I repeat it to women everyday: "A woman's strongest asset is her individuality."

For me, this mantra is meant to remove the myth for our young women that to be beautiful (and accepted), you must look like everyone else. Please know that you are beautiful as you are and you don't need me to make you feel beautiful. A blow-dry only lasts a day, but inner love for yourself lasts a lifetime.


Being blessed with creative abilities, I find it important to work through organizations to share my creative gift with women who cannot afford the pleasure of my professional experience. This means extending my hair care to women and girls in orphanages and hospices.

I invite anyone who knows of any group of women in South Miami that can use my services. It would be my pleasure to help.

I invite you to write me with any questions, and I urge other hairstylists to make a difference by sharing their skills with the less fortunate.

Posted by Unknown at 11:38 AM - 1 comments

ANTONIO LOVES LOVELEXI.ORG

I am fortunate to experience so many wonderful people, places and moments through my love for hair. Being a hairstylist, my job is to educate, create and inspire women, but for me that's just the beginning.

More than pruning the tresses of ladies and the crown of gents, I truly believe it is my responsibility to help people of all ages feel better from the inside out. Whenever I can, I also love to help raise money with my styling skills. Which is what makes the story I’m about to share, so positive and fun.

Let me introduce you to a very special friend of mine, Lexi Lehrman. I first met Lexi when she accompanied her mom and brothers for a haircut. Within no time I was taken with Lexi’s politeness, smile and her overall positive energy. As I got to know her, I learned that this dynamic 13 year old had raised over $40,000 to support the fight against breast cancer and was the founder of the Love Lexi Fund (www.lovelexi.org).

Let's jump into my Q&A with Lexi so you can hopefully give her your support.

Antonio- Hey girly!

A- Can you share with us when you realized you wanted to devote your time to help others?

L- Well, when I was 8 years old my mother and I went to Dunkin Donuts and I saw a pink donut and thought to myself “everybody loves donuts, they should use them to raise money for charity!” On my way home I looked outside the window and saw a pink breast cancer license plate and looked at the pink donut then looked at the license plate again. I immediately associated the two and thought instead of waiting for someone else to use the donuts to raise money…what about me?

That night we went online and found the Susan G. Komen Miami/Ft. Lauderdale Chapter. I sent them an email asking if they had a way for people to donate online in honor of someone and that my birthday was coming up and I’d like to raise money instead of getting gifts. The next day I got an email back and they said no, but to hold on and see what they could do. They got back to us a little while later and asked if I’d test out a new “Friends Asking Friends” online donation program and everything took off from there.

A Birthday Party with A Purpose was born and I raised about $3,600 for my 9^th birthday! It was very exciting!

A- In what other ways do you raise money for cancer?

L- From this first experience, I quickly learned the gift of saving a life is much greater than receiving any birthday present. So now for my birthday, or even the holidays, I ask friends and family to donate to the Love Lexi Fund instead of presents. Don’t get me wrong, I always appreciate the few that slip through! But I honestly don’t really NEED anything other than love, food and a roof over my head. And absolutely NOTHING compares to the feeling when you’ve truly helped make a difference in someone else’s life. I know you know what I’m talking about!!!

A- So I see you're an artist, how did you come up with the idea of combining art with your cause?

L- Well, if there are two things I love to do they are helping people and creating art. My birthday parties turned into painting parties when I tried to come up with something to do that was fun for my 10^th birthday. Since I love to paint and my friends wouldn’t be watching me really “open” any gifts as an activity, I figured I’d give them something fun to do. So I asked each one of my friends to paint their own interpretation of the breast cancer ribbon. Even the guys had fun! Then we went bowling. At first I thought I’d sell the paintings to raise money, then a company called Mail America stepped up and offered to make them into posters. I put them all together in a collage and poof! The first Love Lexi poster! We sold them at the Komen Race for the Cure that October (which is Breast Cancer Awareness Month) and raised all kinds of money with 100% of the proceeds going to the Komen Miami/Ft. Lauderdale Chapter!!!

At that first race, it was incredible to have so many people come to our Love Lexi Tent, see the poster and begin to cry. I knew I had discovered my mission. I called it Art For The Cure and it is now a project that has taken on a life of it’s own! I pick a theme for the poster each year and have had some incredible opportunities to paint additional posters with incredible artists like Romero Britto and Ferdie Pacheco, who’ve helped me raise even more money. Many people still ask for the “Peace for the Cure” poster I did with Ferdie, who was Mohammed Ali’s fight doctor!

A- I was fortunate enough to donate haircuts to your last event, tell us more about it and the upcoming event on October 15th?

L- This year has been a tough one for me. My Auntie Mary was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer around my birthday, I was so sad I couldn’t pull together a painting party. But a few months later, when my aunt was going through a particularly tough time, I heard my mom tell her that she was her “wing girl.” Bam! I had it. I asked the Komen Miami/Ft. Lauderdale chapter executive director, Bobbie Meyers to help me pull together some survivors for a painting party and told her my theme. She loved it and helped me immediately. So this year my theme is “Every Survivor Needs A Wing Girl.” We had each of the survivors paint their “wing girl” stories at Painting with a Twist in Miami – who donated everything. Although my mom brought pink Champaign and I made pink cupcakes, your gift certificates for all the survivors to get a chance to be styled by you (we gave them a copy of your Allure Magazine article LOL) was really the big hit of the night!

I decided to send a canvas to my Auntie Mary and do a “wing girl” painting and poster with her. She drew it and I painted it. The two “angel” hearts represent her daughter, my cousin, Missy and my Nana,

her and my mom’s Mother.

We lost them both a few years ago. Not to cancer but it sure made us very aware of how difficult it is to survive losing someone so precious.

I’m very grateful that all the survivors who painted with me are planning on joining me on stage at the Race for the Cure that day!!! We will be promoting “our” poster (my painting is the green one with the pink ribbon) and we will be selling them hopefully like hot cakes (as my Dad might say).

A- What advice do you have for kids (and adults) who are considering devoting time to helping others?

L- All I have to say is find a cause you really believe in and try your best! My mom gets all mushy about it and is always encouraging my brothers and I to do things that “nurture your soul.” And it is true…mushy but true. This work really nurtures that good feeling you get by making a difference. I’m Jewish and in the Talmud it has a passage (roughly translated) “If you save one soul it is as if you save the world.” I think just about every religion has a belief that supports that thought. I think keeping that intention in mind is what can motivate us all to do good things together.

I love you Antonio, for every kind and thoughtful thing you’ve done for me. This interview is a wonderful gift to help me connect to more people. I want to encourage anyone to come join us online and join Team Love Lexi to help raise more money!!!! http://miamiftl.info-komen.org/goto/JoinTeamLoveLexi

Posted by Unknown at 11:19 AM - 0 comments

MY RECENT WORK IN MIAMI.

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