Find you very best brush!

Investing in a good brush or two can be worth the money, especially if you like to change up your style often.  We've discussed before the types of brushes (round barrel, paddle, teasing, etc.) and the shape of the brush(es) you need depends on your style.  The bristles on the brush are just as important. 

Bristle type: Boar

True boar bristle brushes are made from 100% natural (humanely cultivated) wild boar hair. They should be tightly packed together and feel stiff, but with some flexibility. These bristles distribute oils evenly throughout strands and are great for achieving a smooth, shiny blowout. If you have thick course hair that requires tug to achieve fullness, boar bristle brushes are worth the investment. They make styling easier and promote shine and smoothness—benefits almost everyone wants. If you have fine hair and own one of these brushes, your investment isn’t lost; boar bristles can add volume to fine and normal hair types—as long as your brush has a nice natural give.

Bristle type: Nylon

Nylon bristles are less expensive than boar brushes, but still effective. The bristles are usually spaced farther apart than boar and achieve a medium to strong grip on all hair types, especially those with medium density or finer strands. The better the grip, the smoother and straighter your style will be.  If brushes tend to get stuck in your hair mid-twirl or you suffer from serious static issues try a brush that combines nylon and boar bristles.

Bristle type: Plastic

Plastic and synthetic bristles are your general, all-purpose brushes. The bristles are incredibly strong, made for working through larger areas of medium to thick hair.  These are a “first step” kind of brush, best for detangling and preliminary blow-drying. When you’ve removed most of the excess water, switch to a round boar or nylon brush for styling, smoothing, and adding shine.

Shop for your perfect brush(es) - click here!  Brushes in every style and type from Olivia Garden, Spornette, Cricket, BioIonic, Wet Brush, Denman, iTech, SalonTech & more!

Summer Nails...and get ready for Fall!

OPI has some gorgeous new nail polish shades in their Fall/Winter "Iceland" 2017 collection.  They've also prepared an easy to do look...perfect for the final days of summer from their Spring/Summer 2017 "Figi" collection.  Take a look!

"Iceland" - OPI's Fall/Winter 2017 Collection

Skin Benefits of Vitamin C

It's been centuries since British sailors discovered the key to avoiding scurvy: vitamin C. You probably grew up being told that getting enough vitamin C would ward off colds and other ailments, but now the word is out that vitamin C may not play a big part in staving off the sniffles. However, it does have a vital role in maintaining the health of your skin.

Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is key to the production of collagen, a protein that aids in the growth of cells and blood vessels and gives skin its firmness and strength. Vitamin C also helps create scar tissue and ligaments, and it helps your skin repair itself.

Vitamin C is an antioxidant that slows the rate of free-radical damage -- free radicals are unstable molecules that damage collagen and cause skin dryness, fine lines and wrinkles. New research shows that ascorbic acid 2-phosphate, a derivative of vitamin C, not only neutralizes free radicals, but also reverses DNA damage. While ingesting vitamin C is an important nutrient for overall health, little reaches the skin. As levels of vitamin C in the skin decline with age, replenishing levels directly in the skin can help combat collagen degradation and oxidative stress. Results from clinical trials show that when applied topically, vitamin C promotes collagen formation and mitigates the effects of free radicals, helping to maintain firm and youthful skin.

Look for Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) in your skin care products to help combat the signs of aging.  Brands such as Cellex C, Clinical Care and Yonka all have creams, serums & lotions that contain C.

Alcohol Free Hairspray

Kenra Professional has just introduced it's Shaping Hairspray 21...the first professional  NO ALCOHOL working hairspray.  This is a big deal for those who use hairspray frequently.  Why? 

First, we need to define a couple of words.

• A finishing hairspray dries quickly.  It is meant to be used when hair is completely styled.
• A working hairspray dries less quickly.  It is meant to be used to shape and style hair. 

We all know alcohol can dry out your hair.    Alcohol is very effective at removing oils and anything oil-like from hair. This is a major down-side of alcohol in any formula. Alcohol is also a solvent which does cause hair to swell, so if hair is too well-cleaned and not protected by emollients (silicones, oils, some conditioning ingredients) , the hairspray can encourage dehydration, dullness and loss of elasticity.  However, a finishing spray containing alcohol doesn't really harm the hair if applied properly - hold can 8-12 inches from the head as you spray.

Alcohol in a working hairspray will stay on the hair longer.  If you are using your working spray to style, you likely may also being using heat styling tools.  Since the working spray is not meant to dry quickly, the alcohol has more chance to dry and dull the hair.

So...a working hairspray with no alcohol means you have more working time available to style and still be effective.  It also means you have maximum moisture retention.  Kenra's Shaping Spray 21 is extra firm hold and high shine.  We love it!

Full blown volume even with thin hair!

Ever wondered how to achieve that beautiful, full-volume look when your hair is thin and limp.  Kenra shows you in the video below.  It's really pretty easy with the right products!

Why Mineral Make-up?

The History:
Mineral makeup got its commercial start in the 1970's but its history is as ancient as the human desire to enhance one's looks. Mineral makeup is a return to technologies that have been in use since ancient times. Many ancient cultures used ground-up natural minerals as a means of applying color to the skin for decoration, camouflage, war paints, etc. Cleopatra's kohl-rimmed eyes are an example. The history of mineral makeup goes back much farther, even to early cave-dwellers.
In 1976, cosmetics firms were required to list ingredients on their products for the first time many consumers were shocked at what they were putting on their skin. The growing desire for natural cosmetics coincided with the increasing number of women who identified themselves as having sensitive skin. Add in marketing and media awareness, and an aging baby boomer and the mineral make-up industry blossomed.

What is in it?
Minerals such as iron oxides, talc, zinc oxide, and titanium dioxide are micronized, or ground and milled, into tiny particles to create makeup. Different products micronize to different levels. A product micronized to six times leaves minerals larger so they go on the skin with light to medium coverage. Products micronized 12 times create fine-sized particles that sit closer together and offer more coverage.
A key difference from conventional makeup is what's not in mineral makeup. It generally does not contain the emollient oils and waxes, fragrance, and preservative ingredients found in conventional formulations.
To ensure you're buying a quality mineral makeup product, read the label. If it says "mineral-enriched" or if the formulation is liquid or mousse, these products may contain ingredients such as paraben preservatives or dimethicone added for a smooth texture. Items that aren't powders might also contain moisturizers, antioxidant vitamins, or other good for your skin ingredients, so it's your choice.
Is it worth it?
When it comes to mineral makeup's skin-soothing properties it is anti-inflammatory, noting that the calamine lotion you use to calm a rash is basically zinc oxide colored with iron oxide, both of which are in mineral makeup. But there's no proof of this claim or indication of how much product you need for that result. What about the claim that it's so gentle you can sleep in it? Mineral makeup's light-as-air feel is part of what makes it so popular, and tempting to sleep in. Still, experts advise against sleeping in makeup of any kind to prevent clogs and irritation.
Mineral makeup might not last as long on your face or be as durable as conventional makeup because it doesn't contain standard cosmetic ingredients such as binders, waterproof polymers, and other "stick-to-your-skin" agents. You may still need to add an SPF to your face as well. True mineral makeup is limited in its natural range of shades, so it may be difficult to find a perfect skin tone match. Today, however, there are so many brands and variations, you have unlimited choices: try Jane Iredale, GloProfessional or Youngblood Mineral Cosmetics if you are ready to make the change.

Easy Make-up Routine for hot days!

Keep it Simple!

During the hot summer months, spending time outdoors can have a disastrous effect on make-up, especially when you're doing any type of exercise.  While you can go make-up free, here's a simple make-up routine that will have you looking good....even when you're sweating!

• The easiest way to look finished in seconds is you define your brows. Select a water resistant one.  
• Try a liquid eye shadow like, Jane Iredale's Eye Shere, the perfect water resistant formula to wear if you know you’re going to sweat. Try the shade Champagne Silk for the perfect no-makeup makeup look.
• Our favorite way to glam up our melt-proof makeup look is to add a hint of shine with  Lip Gloss. It’s moisturizing and gives the perfect sheer color for a simple yet stunning finish.
• Keep a hydration spray handy.  When you're wiping away sweat, never rub...just gently pat and then spritz.  Hydration sprays will re-set your make-up and give your skin a fresh look!  Click here to find the perfect hydration spray for you.

Your feet are showing! Show them off!

Break out the sandals and flip-flops!  STOP  Look at those feet.  If you're feeling that way, we have some suggestions to get them toes to twinkling and the feet velvety smooth!  Painted toenails and flashy footwear cannot disguise rough calluses.  So let's get started.

The first thing you are going to want to do is exfoliate.  Scrub and file those calluses.  There are several really good products that you can use.  One of the best is Baby Foot.  It comes as two booties.  You put one on each foot and leave it on for an hour, then rinse off.  Peeling will begin within 3-7 days. 

An essential for keeping feet in sandal shape is a foot file.  Microplane's Paddle Style Foot File is a good one, only $10 and it's paddle shape makes it comfortable to use.  Use it with Callus Action Quick Gel if your calluses are thick and cracked.  Another good one is OPI's Feet Callus Therapy.

Keep your feet looking their best with a good foot moisturizer.  Products made specifically for the foot are better at penetrating the soles of your feet than a normal body lotion. Try Nailtiques Avocado Foot Cream or if you're on your feet all day and want both moisturizing and relief, then Spa Ritual's Sole Mate Foot Balm is perfect!

See all of our foot care products...click here!

Easily cover Melasma (dark spots) in one step with Youngblood!

Covering dark spots and other imperfections requires a little extra effort and a good cosmetic.  Here, Youngblood Mineral Cosmetics shows you how to do it in one easy step with their  Natural Foundation. This lightweight, crushed mineral powder is a ''must have'' essential! It's incredibly silky, and provides sheer, high performance coverage and a natural radiance-without any glitter or shimmer. Free of talc and fragrance, it allows skin to breathe, is non-comedogenic, and is quick & easy to use. Comes it 16 shades.

AG Hair for thinning hair!

Don't panic when you start seeing excess hair on your brush or in your shower!  Be pro-active by changing your hair care routine to include products that enhance the growth cycle of your hair and make it stronger.  AG Hair shows you how naturally!

Your make-up routine needs a good foundation!

When it comes to your face, foundation is the key; it smoothes the texture and color of your skin.  You should use two criteria when choosing your foundation: Look for a shade that matches your skin color and a formula that complements your skin type (dry, oily, combination, sensitive). There are all kinds of foundation to choose from. Here is a quick breakdown of the most common:

Liquid foundation. The most commonly used foundation, liquid foundation is best for dry skin; if you have oily skin, look for an oil-free formula.

Cream foundation. Also good for dry skin; these formulas are somewhat heavy, so be sure to blend them thoroughly into your skin with a sponge.

Compact foundation. This is an all-in-one foundation that even includes finishing powder; it also comes with its own application sponge.

Stick foundation. The original type of foundation, this kind is best for skin with lots of blemishes.

Tinted moisturizer. This cross between a moisturizer and a foundation is best for young, clear skin; it provides light skin coverage and can be blended into your skin with your fingertips rather than a sponge.

BeautyCareChoices.com has all formulas of foundation from top professional brands, including Jane Iredale, gloMineral, Mirabella, TIGI, Youngblood, Dermablend and Earthly Body.  See them all!

7 steps for cleansing your hair!

Even the best shampoos and conditioners won't work their magic unless you take care.  Follow these simple 7 steps for getting the best cleanse without damaging your hair.

Detangle & brush your hair prior to cleansing!  Starting with tangled hair, then adding water and shampoo can only make matters worse.  The more controlled your hair is prior to cleansing, the fewer problems you'll have when you are finished.  Brushing first will also loosen dirt and oils from your scalp, so you get a really good cleanse.

Massage the shampoo only into your scalp.  Massage gently with your fingertips, never "scratch" with your nails which is very delicate.   Most of the dirt and oils in your hair are near the scalp.  Only run the shampoo through to your ends at the last.  Your hair ends will get clean as the suds run down the hair.

• To really protect your ends as you shampoo your scalp, apply a little conditioner on the last couple of inches of your hair.  This way your ends are getting the extra touch of moisture they need as you cleanse your scalp.

Never pile your hair on top of your head.  Piling shampoo-filled hair on top of you head only creates tangles....the worst kind.  If it tangles while it's hanging down, you can pull the tangle out in a downward motion which reduces hair breakage.

Rinse hair thoroughly.  Leaving shampoo residue behind will only attract dirt more easily and quickly and weigh down your style.

Apply conditioner to the ends of the hair and work upward.  Remember, the ends will need the most moisture. Unless your scalp is excessively dry, it does not need conditioner and the product will only clog scalp pores.

Gently detangle your hair while it is saturated with the conditioner.  Keep a good hair brush, like the Wet Brush, in the shower if that is where you shampoo.  This seriously minimizes breakage.  Then rinse hair with water running down the length of your hair.

Never use a towel to dry your hair.  Even the softest terry will shred through your hair and give you split ends.  Simply gently squeeze excess water from the hair.  Use a T-shirt or a other micro-fiber product.  CleanLogic Microfiber Hair Wrap is a great one.  

Black isn't the only eyeliner color!

Chances are, you are like nearly all women.  Check their cosmetic bag and you will find eyeliner...black eyeliner.  But black isn't always the right choice.  Sometimes we want to create a softer or more casual look.  That's when brown is the perfect choice.  A medium to dark brown shade can soften your look and still create an attention-calling eye.  Take a look at the celebrity pix below and see the difference.

Taylor Swift

Sofia Vergara

Katy Perry

Mila Kunis

Beyonce

NEW! Skin care supplements from Jane Iredale!

The beauty industry is constantly evolving, improving and changing.  Science, creativity and new techniques continue to improve the quality and effectiveness of hair, skin and nail care.  We love these new supplements from Jane Iredale!

Jane Iredale - Naturally good

for your skin!

Jane Iredale, skin care makeup as introduced four Advanced Nutrition supplement products for your skin. Skin Vitamin A contains vitamin A, with Vitamin D added.  Vitamin A is important for cell production and growth so it helps to regenerate firm and youthful skin.  It's the anti-aging formula!  Skin Antioxidant, made with seven super antioxidant phytonutrients from plants keeps your youthful skin longer.  Skin Omegas maintain your skin's integrity and healthy lipid layer...skin is smooth & luminous.  Skin Complete combines the ingredients from Skin Antioxidant and Skin Vitamin A so you get the benefits of both in one capsule.  Skin Accumax is the way to go for clear, flawless skin naturally!

A braid to remember!

While not everyone has long hair, anyone can take inspiration from this Schwarzkopf video featuring OSIS+ styling products.  Braids & a style with a BOHO attitude are at the top of style trends.

File your nails...do it correctly...here's how!

Choose a nail file. Emery boards are the most basic nail file and are a cheap and easy tool for filing your nails. They come in different grits -- the lower the number, the rougher the grit, and the more of your nail it will take away at once. Try to find a file with a grit between 220-300 if you have healthy natural nails.

• Glass files are very effective, but they can be very expensive.
• Crystal files are as effective as glass files, but are cheaper.
• Try to avoid metal files if you can. They can tear your nails and cause peeling.
• Consider getting a few different types of emery boards so you can file your nails as smoothly as possible.

Decide on your nail shape. Before you start filing your nails, you need to decide on the shape you'd like your nails to be. There are five basic nail shapes: oval, square, squoval, round, and pointed/almond. Then create each shape, start at the sides of your nails and follow the natural curve of your cuticle until you reach the center of the nail. Here are the distinctions between the five basic nail shapes:

• Oval. The oval is a basic nail shape for short, low-maintenance nails. This shape is curved at the top, creating an oval shape for the nail.
• Square. The square nail has a slightly curved edge that meets two flat sides. It creates a square (or really, a rectangular) look for each nail.
• Squoval. As the name suggests, this nail shape isn't as round as an oval and isn't as straight as a square. The Squoval, perfect for nails with wide nail beds, is curved but still maintains a partially square look.
• Round. The round nail is more curved than the oval nail. The sides of the round nail are curved and meet at a rounded point.
• Pointed/Almond. This is a more extreme version of the round nail. A pointed nail does not have a flat or curved edge but has both sides meeting up to create a point. This creates a dramatic look but requires higher maintenance.

Fun & Easy Nail Art Design

What is easier than drawing a line?  Although Essie's design uses blue, green & purple, only your imagination limits your color choices.  Need new colors.  Choose from over 500, click here.

Blush trick for a flattering, high-cheekbone effect!

Oh those cheekbones!  Once blush goes from mystifying to ooh, I get it now, you really do wonder what you looked liked without it. As the revival of the "draping" technique (AKA contouring with blush) has reminded us, there are a variety of ways to approach blusher.

Most of us were taught to always apply blush starting from the apples of the cheeks and sweeping outwards along the length of the cheekbone. However, for someone who is redness prone, this was actually a mistake. Where ever the brush hits first is usually where you get the most payoff because that's where the most product is deposited. And, if you're naturally flushed this puts extra "warmth" where you might already have it.  Not to mention, tapering the blush at apples of the cheeks changes the angles of the face and contributes to a more feline, Bella-Hadid-like sculpt.

So here's the trick.  Starting further back at the temples and working inward allows you to create a slimmer more lifted and defined effect. In other words, it's an on-the-spot face lift.  This isn't to say that you have to go against the grain and stop showing the apples of cheeks (it adds volume to your face, after all), but the highs of the cheekbone are not to be underestimated!

Get your perfect shade of blush from top professional cosmetic brands.  Shop now!

Concealing those tired eyes

“Why didn’t I go to bed earlier?” Ugh! Dark circles are just the worst. And sadly, because they’ve become a fixture in our lives, we’ve become masters at hiding those zombie-like under-eyes.  But don't worry...we've got them covered!

Depending on the day, you may need a color corrector or something with more moisture or something with even more moisture  But how do you know which one to use?

Concealers will just disguise those nasty shadows but they’re usually a bit translucent ― meaning your skin is a bit visible through it. This is good because it gives you flexibility with your makeup look and also lets your skin look like skin.  The downside with just using a concealer is that if your shadows are particularly dark, they’ll shine through the product too.

Youngblood Ultimate Corrector

has both peach & yellow

That’s where correctors come in. They neutralize the darkness using the same principles you learned in middle school art class (Remember the color wheel?).  Using colors like green, yellow, peach, and lavender, you can put a color on your spots or shadows that is opposite on the color wheel. Think peach pigment on purplish, blue circles; green on splotchy reds; lavender to counteract sallowness.

Wearing the correctors alone or with concealer over them is up to you and the finish you’re looking to achieve. For major skin concerns (super dark circles, hyperpigmentation, acne, etc.), the combo of a corrector and concealer is a life-saver. 

Keep in mind to only use your concealer on the skin that is dark and not on the entire under eye. Covering the entire under eye will only bring more attention to the area. Start from outer corner of the eye and apply small dots of concealer and gradually come towards the middle of the eye just below the lower lash line. Smudge it with the help of a makeup sponge or fingers until perfectly blended.

The Best skin care for your skin type

When it comes to skin care, we've all experienced disappointment.  Quality skin care products can be expensive so the more you know before you buy can better the investment.  Getting the right formulation for your skin will help to insure the product you buy is the product you use and not just another jar or bottle that ends up in the back of the cabinet because you paid for it and don't want to throw it away.  Selecting the formulation (delivery system) is not just about what you are partial to but what benefit that particular formula has for your skin.  Today's products have lots and lots of science behind them.  You can use the chart below as a good guide for choosing what will work for you.

Formulation	Skin Type
Milk & Lotion	Sensitive skin which is easily irritated, can become red and itchy.
Balm	Extremely dry or dehydrated skin that is flaky or cracked and feels tight.
Micellar Water	Normal and sensitive skin which has minimal irritation.
Gel	Oil & acne prone skin that breaks out easily and/or is inflamed and congested.
Powder	Normal skin that usually has minimal oiliness or dryness.
Foam	Extremely oily Skin that is greasy to the touch and shiny all day long.
Thick Cream	Dry, dehydrated and mature skin that shows signs of aging and a loss of elasticity.

You can find the perfect product for your skin type...click here for all of our great face care products.

Happy 4th of July!

Lips!

Lips are an extension of the inside of your mouth - your mucus membranes.  They have no oil glands or hair follicles to protect them so they don't have the usual layer of sweat and body oils which keep the skin on your body smooth.  This means lips dry out faster and, without special attention, can crack and chap.  The skin on your lips is also very thin compared to the rest of your face.  That is why lips have their natural coloring...it's the blood vessels that can be seen through the lip skin. (The upper lip is the labium superius oris and the lower lip is the labium inferius oris.  The juncture where the lips meet the surrounding skin is called the vermilion border.)

So, why do we want full lips?  According to researchers, it has been shown that the more estrogen a woman has, the fuller her lips.  Somehow, in our distant past, this got built into our DNA and served as an indicator of a woman's fertility, so full lips became sexually attractive.  Interestingly, when make-up was applied to lips, they found biological indicators were masked.

Now you know...probably more info than you needed!  The bottom line, lips need extra moisture and care.  A well made-up lip completes your look and makes you feel more confident; even a neutral shade.  So, when selecting lip products, it is important to choose one with moisturizers and SPF protection (like Jane Iredale's Lip Drink), no matter what shade or type (lipstick, gloss, balm) you buy.

Tips for lips:

• Line the lips after you've applied your lip color.
• Just line the center of the Cupid's bow and the center of the lower lip.
• Gloss is youthful.  It works at any time of the day or night.
• If you love to wear gloss but are worried about feathering, put a dot in the middle of the lower lip only.
• If you want to make lips appear large, line on the outside or the vermilion line, but not into the skin.
• Mix lipstick shades for your own custom color. 
• You can use a lip pencil and fill in your entire lips and just add a clear gloss for a go anywhere and everywhere look.

For the very best in lip care, select from our professional cosmetics just for lips. Click here!

A little tip for blondes using foundation

The struggle to effectively blend foundation is a real.  We have a trick that helps partially solve the problem ― and does it on the cheap.

When putting on foundation,  use an eyebrow brush or toothbrush to brush it into your hairline so that it all blends.  This works for everyone, but especially for those with blonde hair and tanned skin.  If it doesn’t blend,  you can see the foundation in your hair.

Might we just recommend keeping your foundation toothbrush far, far away from the one you use to brush your teeth?

It's a Brow How-To!

Brows are one of the most focused on features for makeup artists everywhere. While there are so many ways you can shape your brows, today we want to give you the run down on one of our personal favorites. This brow shape has been made popular by aesthetician Kristie Streicher. Her signature "Feathered Brow" has been featured in magazines like Allure and Vogue and has been seen on celebrities like Cara Delevingne and Lilly James. This look is very natural and is a great rehabilitation for anyone that has over-groomed arches.

Step 1: No Touchy!

Start by letting the hair grow out! Leave your brows alone for at least six to eight weeks allowing the hair to fill in and giving you a great base from which to start. Streicher told Elle magazine, "The longer, the better as that lets you see your natural shape."

Step 2: Find Your Shape

The feathered brow is a bold look so don't be afraid if your shape is a little more than what you are normally used to. The easiest way to find your shape is by holding a brow pencil at the middle you your nostril vertically. Mark the spot where the pencil and brow line up. This will be the beginning of your brow. To find the top of your arch, pivot the pencil to just outside of your iris while looking straight forward, then mark that spot. To finish off your shape, again pivot the pencil all the way to the outer corner of your eye. That is where the tail of your brow should end.

Step 3: Shape It Up!

Now that you have your shape, make your brows match it. Do not forget to keep them bold though! Use a spoolie brush, like Jane Iredale's Deluxe Spoolie or gloProfessional's Spoolie, and brush your brows up. There is no need to trim every hair. Simply trim down the really long hairs with brow scissors like Mehaz's #371. If you feel like you may still be stuck in your old over grooming ways try Toolworx Ergonomic Groomer to keep that natural look and feel. 

Step 4: Plucking Prep

This style of brows are supposed to be boy-ish and bold, so you can skip the wax! However, you will still have to pluck a few hairs. Let's face, it no one grows perfect brows with no help. Prep your skin by massaging in a generous amount of facial calming oil. This will help with any pain and redness that plucking can cause. Our favorite is Pharmagel Nourish Oil. It's enriched with vitamins from fruits like cranberries, avocados, and seabuckthorn for a deep calming and moisturizing feel. Other great facial oils would include Bioelements All Things Pure Eye Oil, Amir 100% Argan Oil and Earthly Body Miracle Oil. 

Step 5: A Light Clean Up
Pull out your favorite pair of tweezers and repeat after us, "Less is more. Less is more." To assist in keeping that mantra true don't use any special bright lighting or a magnifying mirror. Use natural light and only pluck the hairs that stray from your shape found in step two. If you are looking for a great pair of tweezers Streicher recommends Rubis Switzerland Tweezers and we couldn't agree more!

Step 6: Plucking Post-Op

If the facial oil was not enough to keep you skin from turning red that's okay. You do not have to stay home all night waiting for your skin to return to it's normal color. Use a little bit of Satin Smooth's Stay Calm Serum or gloProfessional's gloTherapeutic Healing Gel to remove any redness while tightening your pores and reducing irritation.

Step 7: Say Good-Bye to Bare Spots

If your natural hair is not bold enough or if your brow is plagued by bare spots, fake a thicker finish. Use a brow pencil like Mirabella's The Brow Pencil  and draw in some hairs. No coloring! Just lightly flick in "hairs" to keep the natural vibe. Finish off with a clear brow gel; we love gloMineral's Brow Gel to keep those bad boys in place.  If your brows are naturally very thin and bare this look may be difficult to pull off. Try GrandeBROW serum to fill in your natural brow and you will be ready for the Feathered Brow in no time! 

Step 8: Be a Show Off!

You now have another six to eight weeks before you should shape your brows again. Keep the tweezers away and show off your natural gorgeous brow. Post a picture of your brows to Facebook or Instagram and let the adoration come in! Don't forget to tag us! @BeautyCareChoicesBCC on Facebook and @beautycarechoices on Instagram

Micellar Water

Everyone, including beauty experts, is raving about the benefits of micellar water.  The gentle cleansers can seemingly do it all.  Micellar waters are no longer exclusive to skincare. They are now available for your hair!

Micellar water is made up of micelles (tiny balls of cleansing oil molecules suspended in soft water.  The micelles have both water-loving and oil-loving properties.  These two parts help the molecules in your shampoo to attach to oil and dirt particles in your hair, which makes it easier to wash away. In short, the micelles are helping to get your hair as clean as possible without being too aggressive on your hair. Think of them as a magnet: they help draw out impurities like dirt, oil and environmental pollutants without being too harsh on your hair.

What Is Micellar Shampoo?

Micellar shampoos offer a new type of hair cleansing experience that gently washes away dirt, grit, pollution, product build-up and excess oils. Safe for color-treated hair, these mild shampoos are formulated without sulfates or silicones to give you bouncy, fresh hair without drying out your strands.

What are the benefits of a micellar water shampoo?

Well, unlike typical clarifying shampoos recommended to be used once per week, micellar shampoos can be used each time you shampoo. This micellar technology is helps to remove any gunk or product buildup that inevitably builds up on the scalp without harming your haircolor or the integrity of your hair. And, you can use them daily!

Redken has just introduced Clean Maniac Shampoo & Conditioner using micellar water.  If you love to clear the junk, gunk and odors from your hair, Clean Maniac is for you!

Keeping control of coarse, thick hair.

It's true...we often want what we can't have.  Those of us with fine, thin hair wish it was thick.  Those with thick hair, wish it were thinner.  Curly hair wants it straight...straight hair wishes for those gorgeous curls.  So, while we have to accept what we have, each type presents challenges to get the beautiful hair we all want.  Here, we provide some useful tips for those with thick, coarse hair.

Wash

Coarse, thick hair is often drier because it has the least amount of oil glands and the largest diameter. The good news: it means you can go the longest between shampoos. Wash once or twice a week, and make sure you lather twice if it's been a whole week between shampoos.  Use something labeled as moisturizing; ones that contain oils like jojoba, coconut, or argan, which sink in and restore moisture

Cut

Get a cut every 12 to 16 weeks, and at every other appointment, ask your stylist to remove bulk from your hair. Doing it at every appointment could make your hair look and feel too thin. Also, try to keep it on the longer side. Styles that are shorter than shoulder length require more maintenance in a daily styling routine, as this texture looks best smooth and shaped.

Color

Coarse hair tends to be naturally dark, so regrowth can be very noticeable. Color as often as you need to—every two to four weeks if you have severe grays, or every six to eight weeks for highlights. If you're using a semi- or demi- permanent formula, pull the color all the way through to your ends every time to get a boost of shine. Keep in mind that coarse hair can be very dry, so incorporate a hydrating mask into your regular routine to prolong your color's vibrancy.

Style

Heavier styling creams are your best bet. Start with a dime-size amount and add more as needed.  This will help add moisture and shine and also define the texture.  This type takes forever to dry and style. Fake a blow-out by showering at night and twisting damp hair into a high bun. In the morning, undo it, and wind a half-inch iron through a few front and side sections. Set with hair spray.

Need help finding the best hair products for your hair type.  Give our cosmetologists a call -  (866) 409-7227.  They are happy to help!

Little "Hacks" that make hair styling easier!

1. Tame frizz with a toothbrush and hairspray.

Using hairspray to control frizz is a delicate balancing act: use too little and it doesn’t make much difference, but spray too generously and you’ll end up with unpleasantly stiff hair. In order to make sure you have just the right amount to tame frizz, spray an old toothbrush with hairspray and run it over those pesky flyaway strands. It’ll hold your hair in place without turning it into a helmet.

2. Use dry shampoo before you go to bed.

If your hair needs a wash but you know you won’t have time to do that before work or school in the morning, apply dry shampoo before your head hits the pillow at night. The shampoo will work itself into your strands overnight, resulting in clean, healthy-looking hair in the morning.

3. When curling, start with the middle of your hair.

To get full, long-lasting waves using a curling iron, start from the middle instead of the end of your hair. This helps your hair stay wavy for longer.

4. Keep your bobby pins in place with hairspray. 

If you have sleek, straight hair that bobby pins usually slide right through, spread out your bobby pins on a towel and spray them with either hairspray or dry shampoo. Carefully pick up the towel by the corners and shake it a bit in order to evenly distribute the hairspray or dry shampoo on your bobby pins, then style your hair and rest easy knowing the bobby pins won’t slip out.

5. Use aluminum foil to help curl straight hair.

For anyone whose hair has trouble holding a curl, try dividing your hair into segments, curling each segment around your finger, and folding it up into aluminum foil squares (the size of the squares will depend on the size of the waves you want). Heat each piece of foil for about 20–45 seconds, wait for the foil to cool, and remove. Use hairspray to hold hair in place if necessary, but in many cases, you’ll find that the curls hold all day.

6. Get volume overnight.

Wash your hair the night before you want to get a voluminous look, add a little volumizing gel, and twist it up into a bun on top of your head before you go to bed (wear a beanie over your hair if you’re worried about frizz). The next morning, blow dry your hair while still in the bun for a couple minutes, then let your now-bouncy hair down.

Happy Father's Day!

And congratulations to Katrina from Washington!  She won the Baxter's of California giveaway.  Katrina wrote "Thank you so much!!! I'm so excited! My husband is a stay at home dad to our 4 kids, so I think he's beyond amazing and totally deserves this!!!   Well, we think so too! 

Don't think your eyes are perfect? Fix the flaw with eye shadow!

We all look in the mirror sometimes and, after critical examination, wish your eyes were bigger or our nose smaller or ....!  Well, we can't change our actual features (unless we want to opt for surgery), but we can camouflage our flaws.  Below, we have some expert advice for making the most of our eyes.  Try the right one for you and see the difference!

To make small eyes look bigger, don’t outline the contour of your eye with a dark color. Apply shimmery base eye shadow on the entire mobile lid. Highlight with a light iridescent shade under the eyebrow and in the inside corner and contour of the eye to define its outer corner. Instead of dark eye shadow along the lashes, use eyeliner along and beyond the upper lash line to elongate your eyes. Use eyeliner on the lower lid for a festive look.

 

For protruding eyes, matte eye shadow is preferable to iridescent as a base and contouring color. In the crease, blend contouring color halfway down to the lashes, visibly shrinking the size of the mobile lid. Curling your lashes may be the best remedy to reduce bulginess.

 

Mature eyes look best with a light base eye shadow all over the eyelid, and a soft highlighter under the eyebrow. Lift your eyes by applying color strictly above your upper eyelid, keeping the sides and lower lid free of base eye shadow. Use brown or grey mascara instead of black.

 

For Asian eyes, don’t attempt to draw a line above your natural crease with a dark color. Instead, try to create the illusion of eyelids by applying bright shimmery eye shadow on and above the crease. It should occupy about one third of the space between your lashes and your eyebrows. Be aware that this technique works well only if your eyelids aren’t saggy.

 

Large wide-set eyes look beautiful as they are; smaller ones need some work. Draw your shading line in the crease, close to the inner corner, but don’t deliberately try to make your eyes appear closer by applying dark eye shadow near your nose. Apply eye shadow within the border defined by the eye shape, and don’t whiten your inner corners.

Need to update your eye make-up.  Click here! to find your perfect shades in pencils, shadows, mascaras & more!

Create wavy hair without using heat!

We all know heat is damaging to your hair...a necessary evil that we need to create our style!  Need a break from the heat???  Here, Sexy Hair shows you how to create those sexy waves without a heated styling tool! 

Thin Hair Hacks - Style it right for big volume!

If you've been dealt the "thin hair" card, we have some great tips.  Even the thinnest haired-girls can reach supermodel hair heights with our "hair hacks"!

• Part your hair on the opposite side. If you normally part your hair on the left side, blow dry it like normal, but part it on the right. Your hair gets used to your part, so flipping it in the other direction will make your roots stand up.
• Add some waves. Pin-straight strands lays flat against your head, making even the thickest hair appear thinner. If you have wavy hair, try embracing your natural texture, or add some waves with a curling wand. The added texture will make your hair look fuller.
• Back-comb your hair. Use a teasing comb to tease your roots. Comb strands over it and use a volume hairspray to keep the pumped-up look in place.
• Get short layers. A blunt cut can weigh your hair down. Adding light layers will give your hair shape and movement.
• Blow-dry your hair upside down. Flip your head upside down when it's still wet and blow dry. When you get to your roots, use your fingers to softy tousle – this will help them to stand up, creating even more volume.
• Sprinkle your roots with a volume powder. This is a great texturizer, adding grip and tons of volume to your hair.
• Rock a lob. Long hair is heavy, so it will lie flatter against your head. Try a trendy crop for more texture and volume.
• Skip the serum. Serum makes your hair sleek and frizz-free, which also makes it lay flat. While that might be ideal for an up-do, if you're wearing you're hair down, you want to keep all the natural texture you have, so skip the serum.
• Get highlights and lowlights. When your hair is all the same color, it appears thinner. Adding multiple hues to your 'do not only looks more natural but will also give you dimension, making limp locks appear fuller.
• Swap your paddle for a round brush. Paddle brushes are great for getting a sleek, straight look. But to amp-up your hair, use a round brush while blow-drying. It makes it easier to grip hair and create more tension so you can get more lift.
• Apply a root lift spray to your roots before blow-drying. This will help keep your roots upright, which will stop your 'do from falling flat after 10 minutes.
• Let your hair air dry. Hot tools can damage your hair and cause fine hair to break. The healthier your hair, the longer and fuller it'll be. Give your blow dryer and curling iron a break whenever possible, and always use a heat protectant spray to protect strands from heat damage.

Click here for great volumizing products!

Did you know.....?

I just learned something everyone in world probably knows but me, but here it is in case there is one other person who has glass shower doors and is constantly cleaning them (and HATES it every time!).

Bar soap has a binding agent that causes that film on the glass.  Liquid body washes do not!  This means no film on the glass and no cleaning it off!

I was told this by a friend, bought body wash instead of bar soap a month ago and haven't had to clean the glass once.  It dries clear and clean every time!  So worth it and body washes come in so many luscious scents, contain moisturizers and even exfoliates.  No more bar soap for me!

Need a good body wash? Click here to find yours. Beauty Care Choices has some of the best! 

 

Hair Myths...the real truth!

Myths about hair exist in amazing abundance. The roots of some hair myths may be pure flights of fancy while others contain a kernel of truth.  Some myths, it seems, are inversely related to how hare-brained they are. So, it is time for facts and real answers.

1. Styling products dry out hair. – Wrong!This statement is untrue. The alcohols used in styling products are highly volatile. Consequently, the alcohols evaporate the moment the product settles on the hair or even sooner.
2. Frequent shampoos lead to an oily scalp. – Wrong!
Sebaceous glands in the hair roots regulate how much sebum (fat) is produced. The sebum production depends solely on the skin type and the person’s age. As a general rule, the sebum production decreases with age. Frequent shampoos will remove the sebum from the hair and scalp. However, professional  shampoos are designed to keep hair supple.
3. My scalp is so oily so I do not need conditioner, right? Wrong!
We completely understand that nobody wants to have a greasy head but please, we beg of you, use your conditioner. Conditioner actually helps in more than one way. With proper use, a dime size goes a long way and keep a wide tooth comb handy to thoroughly saturate and prevent overuse. Skipping the conditioner leaves your hair unprotected and more prone to frizz and breakage. Never apply conditioner at the root, that’s where your comb comes in!
4. Stress causes hair loss. – Correct! On average, people lose about 50 to 80 hairs every day and replace them. Stress can influence the balance between hair loss and regrowth in favor of excess hair loss. Nature strives to re-establish the lost balance. You should consult with your physician if the excessive hair loss persists.
5. It is better to comb rather than brush wet or damp hair. – Correct!
Wet or damp hair is more fragile and more prone to breakage and other damage than dry hair. Use a wide-toothed comb to style wet or damp hair.
6. Brown hair grows faster than blonde hair. – Wrong!
Usually, blonde hair is finer and more prone to breakage than brown hair. This may lead to the impression that blonde hair grows slower than dark hair. However, genetic factors other than the hair color genes determine how fast the hair grows.
7. One hundred brush strokes daily turn on the luster in your hair. – Of course!
Brushing leads to smoother hair cuticles, and it detangles hair. The smooth evenly layered hair shafts reflect light particularly well. This is the basis for the glow and the attractive play of light in freshly brushed hair. Brushing also distributes the sebum from the scalp over the cuticle surfaces. This protects the hair while increasing its shine. You don’t have to count and it does not necessarily take as many as 100 brush strokes.
8. Pluck one grey hair and more will grow!  Wrong!

Remember when you saw your first gray hair? You quickly plucked it out! Most of us do that, and have been told that many more will pop back out. Well, it's a pure myth. Plucking gray hair won't lead to more gray hair, but it can damage the hair follicle and lead to 'no' hair. It's better to have gray hair than no hair, right?!

9. I’m growing out my hair so the last thing I need is a haircut.  Wrong! Though trimming your tresses will not aide in hair growing faster it DOES prevent sad ends from hanging around which can slow the growth process down. So trim those ends! Your hair will still grow and it’ll be happier and healthier.. just make sure your stylist doesn’t get scissor happy in the process so be clear when discussing your end goals with your stylist!

Balayage

Achieving a hair look that is unique as you calls for balayage!  This is a term you’ve probably heard  a lot lately. Balayage isn’t a specific color or look, but rather the actual technique that stylists use to apply highlights. The name means “paint” or “sweep” in French, so with balayage, the dye is applied to the hair freehand, using vertical strokes and no foil (think of Picasso strokes on a canvas). This way, the stylist can easily build the level of color from the mid-shaft to the ends so that the results are softer, more natural-looking.  It also means, as your hair grows it doesn't scream,  “I haven’t been to the salon in a while.”  It’s not really something that non-pros can achieve at home; balayage is positively

head-turning!

The method isn’t just used for getting those sun-kissed highlights that have made celebs fall in love with it—balayage can also be a little wild. When the technique is combined with mermaid colors, you get a rich ombre that blends two or three (or five) vibrant hues seamlessly. Plus, because balayage haircolor is never harsh, it turns out amazing on all base colors and hair textures.

Snail Essence for Fabulous Youthful Hair

Introducing Kenra Platinum's new Snail Collection.  You're going to be hearing a lot about these anti-aging hair products, so we thought we'd give you a first look!  Snail essence is a phenomenon sweeping the beauty industry.  Korean snail essence is that slimy stuff snails produce to repair the cuts on their bodies. Yuk! may be your first reaction, but it is a highly concentrated blend of proteins demonstrated to have amazing results for anti-aging hair and skin care.

Cuticle Care...Essential for health nails & perfect manicures!

We often show you nail art videos and how-to steps.  They are fun and with practice and experience, you'll get better and more creative.  However, you can't create beautiful nails without caring for your cuticles.  Essie's video below gives you tips and facts to insure your cuticle care is done correctly and safely.  (Warning: Incorrect cuticle cutting can lead to infections.)

Essie Apricot Cuticle Oil   For cuticle pushers and nippers: Manicure/Pedicure Tools

Dry Shampoo Tips

Dry shampoos let you extend your style and prolong the time between regular shampoos.  Sometimes, no matter how hard we try, time just gets away from us and we roll out of bed with ten minutes spare before work or the kids can't find their homework or the dog is telling you he desperately needs to go for a walk!  Still, you need to look great for work.  That's when dry shampoo becomes your best friend.  The video below, from Oscar Blandi shows you how to use dry shampoo properly.  Even if you have another dry shampoo you love, the tips he provides will help you make sure your using it effectively.

(Everyone should have dry shampoo in their beauty arsenal. That's why almost every professional hair care brand has one. If you need it, click here.  You'll find a dry shampoo from all your favorite brands.)

One hair cut...three great looks!

Our new giveaway features Baxter of California men's grooming products.  Here is "Seth".  He has one hair cut with 3 great looks created using Baxter styling products.

Paste Pomade gives him medium hold and can be easily re-worked during the day and into the night.

His "class act" (middle image) look sweeps his hair to the side and it's kept in place all day with Cream Pomade.  This give him low shine, soft definition and hold.  It also has Kaolin clay and beeswax to nourish his hair!

The effortless, tousled look is finger-styled forward using a mix of Grooming Cream which tames hair, adds a light hold and a little extra moisture and Cream Pomade for an unfinished texture!

You can find all men's grooming products and great Father's Day gifts...click here for your Men's page.

Add volume and texture to hairstyles with a toothbrush!

Braids can look great at any age. But many skip them because they hate how thin and limp their own looks. Here’s the truth – most braids don’t come out looking thick and artfully crafted right after you secure it. You have to give them a little extra attention.  Here's the trick:  pull at strands with a toothbrush to make them look more voluminous and lived in. After your braid is secured with pins or an elastic, gently run the toothbrush along each side of each link “against the grain”. If you need the braid even wider, just pull outward at the sides very gently. You’ll look more bohemian, and less schoolmarm. And of course, it looks like you have approximately 30% more hair than you really do.

Make some waves!

USE CODE "TOOLS" AND SAVE 10% ON ANY PRODUCT FEATURED IN THIS GUIDE

As elegant as they are simple! Start with clean, dry hair. Spray on a small amount of Medium Hold Hairspray. Then, with your favorite Styling Rod or Wand (we like using our Deep Waver by Hot Tools) start 3-4 inches from the root, this gives your waves a more natural look. After a few seconds, release and move down the hair. If you're using a Deep Waver (or similar product) make sure you line it up with your last wave for continuous, natural-looking waves. Brush out gently, we've been digging our Ceramic Ion Boar Bristle Brush by Olivia Garden. Apply some more of that Medium Hair Spray and you're done!

Ceramic Tourmaline Deep Waver $72.00 Ceramic + Ion Supreme Brush 100% Boar Bristles $32.50 Perfect Medium Spray 13 $17.00

First off, you'll get better Barely There Waves if you're working with a 2-day blowout, a little bit of oil and grit will help these waves hold. Brush through your hair, preferably with a boar-bristle brush. Spray your roots with dry shampoo, if needed, and brush again. With these curls, we'll be working with large sections of hair; wrap them around your iron in random directions. This helps the natural, slept-in look come to life. Allow your waves to cool completely, then shake out with your hands. Finish it up with a light shine spray and you're done!

Salon Curling Iron Extra Long Barrel 24k Gold $60.00 Boar Brush $36.00 Shine Infusion Hair Shine Spray $15.00

This is one of our favorite styles! Whether you're slept-in or fresh out of the shower, getting this look is super easy. Simply wrap small sections of hair around your favorite rod or wand, back around your face and hold them out as you let them loose. And, the twist here is you'll not be clamping your hair after, pull it down tight while it cools, then release. After, we like to use a sea salt spray. See how easy that was? Seriously, it's almost too easy.

PRO Nano Titanium ConiCurl Tapered Curling Iron $58.00 Swirl Sea Salt Spray $23.50 Deflect Fast-Dry Heat Protection $24.00

Alright, the joy behind this look is how simple it is, while looking absolutely stunning! The small trick here is to alternate directions using a flat-iron instead of a curling iron. Start by spraying the crown of the head with either a dry shampoo or a matte volume spray. Then take small sections of hair and give them soft bends with your favorite flat iron. To do this, start at the roots and pull up, then half-way flip it over and pull it down. You'll end with waves and it's so easy.

Big Sexy Hair Powder Play Volumizing & Texturizing Powder $17.00 Smoother $199.00 Booster + Volumizer & Root Lifter with Thermal Protection $23.50

Did you just come from the salon? Are you sure? It'll look like you did with this simple, at-home style. The secret here is keeping most of the volume and curl towards the bottom half of your hair. Start with a blow-out with a polishing serum, and add a bit extra to the ends of your hair if you tend to get frizzy. Then use a 1.5 inch curling iron, or our favorite automated curler - Salon Tech SpinStyle! and focus on the bottom two-thirds of your hair. Wait for the hair to cool, then gently loosen it up with your hands.

Magic Anti-Frizz Shine Serum $22.00 SpinStyle Automatic Curling Iron $60.00 Semi di Lino Styling Illuminating Thermal Protector $22.00

Alright, let's GO BIG! For this one, we need volume hairspray, large barrels, and even larger brushes! Start by blowing your hair out with your favorite volume blow-out. Take a 1.25 or 1.5 inch iron and wrap 1.5 inch sections of hair in random, alternating directions. Be sure not to run too hot - curls that are too tight won't give as much volume. Pin and let cool. Shake out gently and spray down with an volumizing spray.

Pro Tools Express Ion Curl XL $120.00 Total Results High Amplify Proforma Hairspray $16.00 $13.00 ProThermal Anti-Static Round Brush T-63 $26.50

This modern, frizzy-volume look is best achieved by skipping the blow-dryer altogether. If you have straight or wavy hair, try parting we, just washed hair straight down the middle, spritz with some beach spray. Let your hair fully dry. Then proceed with a flat iron to give yourself some simple waves, a little tighter than normal waves. You want to keep them natural looking by alternating directions. This is a bit time-consuming, but the payout if amazing!

Healing Style Beach Spray $21.00 VitalCurl Define & Shine Styling Gel-Cream $26.00 Digital Titanium Styler $120.00