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The New Peek-a-Boo Hair Trend Taking Social Media by Storm

We’ve all thought of changing our hair color but might not want to fully commit. You might have black hair and have always dreamt of what it would be like to be a blonde. Perhaps you’re drawn to pastel hues but can’t commit to an all-over shade.

While the peek-a-boo hair trend is nothing new, its latest evolution is all about making a bold statement with contrasting hues. This hair trend went viral on TikTok and is most recognizable as the style worn by Helen McCrory as Narcissa Malfoy in Harry Potter.

You’ll see this trend being called everything from ‘inner color’ to ‘under-hair’. It creates the illusion of hiding the contrasting shade under your natural or predominant color. It gives you the option of having fun with hairstyles that show off your mix-and-match colors or allow you to keep it more subtle for day-to-day wear.

Our team of stylists at 212 Salon and Day Spa is on hand to help you experiment with this new peek-a-boo color trend.

What is the Underlights Trend?

Underlights is a hair coloring trend that has evolved from the peekaboo style. It’s all about giving you the chance to be creative with your hair without committing to an all-over color. Underlights – also known as hidden hair – is a fuss-free style with comes with less maintenance than traditional highlights or hair coloring trends.

The section of hair that is dyed is hidden under your predominant hair color when worn loose. You can choose to let the color ‘peek’ out when you style your hair. It gives you total styling freedom, whether you want to stay low-key or show off your underlights with braids or a TikTok-approved high ponytail.

While blonde underlights are one of the most popular options, you can explore the full color wheel. Nothing is off-limits with this hair trend!

Peekaboo underlights are placed beneath the top layer of your hair, usually featuring a gradual tint from front to back, peeking out from under your hair like a surprise. You can also choose to add your underlights as a single color for

Think of peekaboo underlights as the trendy little sister of highlights. While highlights create a natural blend, peekaboo underlights are all about exploring color in new and playful ways. It’s the perfect choice for fans of updos or those who want to experiment with a bold color palette.

Your 212 Salon and Day Spa stylist will help you find a fun and unique way to explore this trend that compliments your favorite hairstyles.

Why We Love the Underlights Trend

Underlights give your hair a whole new layer of versatility. You can make the color as discreet as you like or be bold and daring with a bright shade. One of the main benefits of underlights is that you’re only coloring one layer of your hair, causing less damage than an all-over color.

Spring and summer are the perfect time to have fun with the underlights trend. Choose a fun, vibrant shade, or keep it classic with a contrasting hue for a contrasting look.

We love the undelights trend as a low-maintenance alternative to an all-over color. You can let the color grow out as it’s not placed at the roots and book your touch-ups in your leisure.

You can jump on the bandwagon of a bold statement color without making a long-term commitment. Opting for underlights can help you maintain your hair’s health and reduce the number of trips you’ll take to the salon for regular touch-ups.

How We Create the Underlights Look

There are two different ways we can recreate the underlights trend on your hair – either using foils for a splash of color or freehand painting, like a balayage. Your stylist will be able to advise you on which option is best for your desired look.

Medium to long length hair is ideal for this trend. You’ll want minimal layering that creates enough of an effect for your chosen color to peek out from under the top layers of your hair.

We can still recreate the underlights look on short hair. Your stylist will focus the color on strategic places and usually at the ends of your bangs to create the ‘peekaboo’ look.

Which Underlight Color Combos to Try

There are no rules when it comes to choosing your color combos for the underlight trend. You can go as crazy and bold as you like or keep it subtle with a lesser contrasting shade. The first step to choosing your underlight color combo is to decide between a complementing or contrasting shade.

Lean into the ‘90s glam trend by choosing a super-contrasted look. One of the most popular color combos for the underlight trend is adding platinum blonde to natural brunette hair or dark underlights for a natural blonde. Choosing two colors on opposite ends of the spectrum will mean you’ll have a little more maintenance to achieve a polished look.

The easiest way to experiment with the underlight trend is to choose a low-contrasting combo. This color trick is one you’ll see all over Instagram, as well as being Hailey Bieber’s signature look. It looks like an ombre effect but uses stronger highlights on your hair’s underside.

Create a more natural look by choosing a shade two hues lighter or darker than your natural hair color for a subtle blend. You’ll get the benefit of changing up your hair without making a drastic change. It’s the perfect refresh for spring and summer.

This peek-a-boo color trend is going to be everywhere this spring and summer with regular touch-ups every six to eight weeks at most. You can even stretch your maintenance appointments for up to six months, depending on the layers in your hair.

Your 212 Salon and Day Spa stylist will let you know if your hair will require any bleaching to reach your desired color combo. Book your appointment for an underlights treatment using our online portal today.

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Everything You Need to Know About Silk Press Hair Treatments

Do you straighten your hair every day? Is your hair goal to achieve perfectly smooth and silky hair? You’re the perfect candidate for a silk press hair treatment. This innovative treatment creates smooth and straight hair without the damage of previous treatments.

Silk press hair treatments work for ash blonde locks and naturally dark hair. This technique is ideal for those with natural curls who want fuss-free straight hair. The silk press hair technique is one of the newest treatments on offer at 212 Salon and Day Spa. Our silk press hair treatments range from $150 to $300, depending on your hair type and length.

We’re sharing everything you need to know about silk press hair treatments and how to maintain silky straight hair at home.

What is a Silk Press Hair Treatment?

The silk press hair technique is a non-chemical treatment that is used to straighten curly and coarse hair. It starts with shampooing the hair before blowing it out and pressing it with a flat iron. This treatment creates a smooth and silk finish for the hair, creating a ‘silk press’ look. It’s a step up from the traditional blowout.

The difference between a silk press treatment and blow out is that it follows up the blow dry with a thermal treatment to smooth the hair for the sleekest look. A silk press treatment is the best way to create the look of glass hair, especially for those with textured hair. Finishing off a silk press hair treatment with a flat iron will give your hair a high-shine look.

Is My Hair Suitable for a Silk Press?

Not everyone needs a silk press to achieve sleek and smooth hair. If you get similar results from a regular blowout, you won’t be an ideal candidate for the silk press hair treatment. If a round brush and blow dryer doesn’t leave your hair sleek and smooth, a silk press treatment will be a game-changer for you.

Your hair will be suitable for a silk press treatment if your curl type is from a five to eight. These more defined curl patterns typically struggle with frizz and shrinkage, making them ideal for a silk press treatment. The technique means that the curl can be stretched before being given a silk finish and smooth texture.

We recommend investing in a professional silk press treatment to limit the risk to your hair. Although the treatment is relatively risk-free, it requires a large amount of heat on your hair. If your hair is heat damaged or struggles with high-temperature treatments, it’s worth booking a consultation before your treatment.

You can expect to get one to three weeks of wear from your silk press treatment, making it ideal for special occasions, vacations, and bridal looks.

What’s Used During the Silk Press Treatment?

There are no specific products that are used during the silk press treatment as it’s a technique and not a chemical process. It means that our stylists can choose the best products for your hair type to give you the smoothest long-lasting results. We’ll typically incorporate heat-protectant products to minimize heat damage throughout your treatment.

The texture of your hair will dictate the additional products used during the treatment with most having a hydrating formula to boost your hair’s natural shine. Two products that are used in every silk press treatment are a flat iron and a blow dryer. A concentrator nozzle will give your hair a smoother finish and make it easier to create a sleek look with a flat iron.

Can I Do a Silk Press Treatment at Home?

While it’s possible to do a silk press treatment at home, we recommend booking in at a salon to get the best results. There’s a specific technique for achieving the silk press treatment and a lot of heat involved. Using the proper technique and professional products will keep your hair healthy and give you the best long-term results.

Will a Silk Press Treatment Damage My Hair?

Any treatment that uses heat can damage your hair. The best way to reduce the risk of damage to your hair is by working with a professional stylist.

You’ll likely only experience damage to your hair if the silk press technique is carried out incorrectly. Our stylists at 212 Salon and Day Spa have experience working with curly and coarse hair, understanding how to work and care for it.

The concern around hair damage and the silk press treatment focuses on the natural texture of your hair. Our stylists will work to ensure your hair stays as damage-free and healthy as possible.

You can reduce damage to your hair by incorporating a weekly conditioning mask into your routine post-treatment. Look out for formulas that include argan oil and cupuacu butter to restore your hair’s vibrancy and hydration.

How to Care for Your Silk Press Post-Treatment

You’ll leave the 212 Salon and Day Spa with your dream hair, smooth to the touch and silky in texture. A little TLC is required to keep your silk press looking fresh for weeks on end.

There are a few things you can do to maintain your silk press treatment for the best long-term results. We recommend wearing a plastic cap while showering to protect your hair from humidity and prevent curl reversion.

It’s worth investing in satin or silk pillowcases to prevent breakage in your hair overnight. Don’t want to switch your pillows out? Get a silk bonnet. It’s the perfect option when you’re travelling. If you like to wear your hair in a ponytail or bun, pick up a silk scrunchie to keep your hair smooth.

You can expect to get one to three weeks of wear from your silk press treatment. It’s easy to touch up your hair between appointments by applying a heat protectant and using your flat iron. Other products like sculpting paste can help to tame flyaway strands and keep your hair silky smooth.

Make an appointment today at 212 Salon and Day Spa for a silk press hair treatment that will bring your hair goals to life.

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Refresh Your Hair with Winter Cuts and Styles

The festive season is upon us. It’s a time to put your best foot forward and not have a hair out of place. The holidays are a chance to refresh our hair with the trending winter cuts and styles that are all over social media.

2022 is the first post-pandemic holiday season without restrictions, meaning more of us are jetting off to celebrate with friends and family. What better than showing up with a new hairstyle? Winter is a chance to experiment with your hair, from trying new winter cuts to trending styles.

The winter months are also a chance to give your hair some TLC with conditioning treatments and regular trims. We’re sharing the winter cuts and styles that everyone is talking about this season. Speak to your hairstylist at 212 Salon and Day Spa about how to personalize these winter trends to suit your style.

1. Chin-Length Bob

Elevate your look with an added touch of glamour this festive season with a chin-length bob. Your stylist can work with you to find a cut that suits your face shape, from a fuss-free shaggy bob to an angular cut.

The beauty of a chin-length bob is that it’ll keep you looking fresh for the whole season. You can maintain the look with regular trims. It’s a ‘90s look that you can make more feminine with curtain bangs or face-framing features.

Although the hair is short, it’s easy to add texture to your hair by softening the edges. A hold cream is a perfect investment to keep this look chic without weighing it down and straighten your hair for a glass-like look.

2. High Pony with Face Framing Pieces

We’re throwing it back to the ‘70s with this vintage-inspired hair trend. Embrace your inner starlet with bottleneck bangs or face-framing pieces. Keeping your fringe soft will give the hairstyle a ‘70s feel and keep it feminine.

Nothing shows bottleneck bangs off more than a high ponytail. This supermodel-worthy hairstyle is a favorite of Sophie Turner and Taylor Swift, both of whom opt for a fuller fringe to complete their looks.

Book in to have your hair shaped and fringe cut to make it easier to achieve this look at home. This winter hair trend is one we’ll be wearing to cocktail parties, after-work drinks, and Christmas markets.

The secret to recreating this look at home is to practice your blow-drying technique and use a round brush to give your ponytail an extra bounce. Keep a few pieces of hair loose around your face and separate a section of hair from your ponytail to wrap around the base for a sleek finish.

3. Copper Brunette

Every season we see a new color trend. It’s usually one that reflects the feel of the season – from cool blondes to warm brunettes. Zendaya has set the winter 2022 hair trend with her cooper brunette locks. It continues the winter trend of adding more warmth to your hair as the temperatures start to drop. Most people will choose to add caramel or copper to their hair for extra warmth to brighten their complexion.

Maintain your hair’s natural warmth or add a copper brunette hue with a gloss treatment. Give your hair extra support with a hair mask to lock in the shine and give it an elevated finish.

You can take this winter hair trend and make it your own. Gigi Hadid has given her copper brunette locks a vintage-inspired twist with a long fringe and multi-dimensional tones. This winter cut is perfect for those who curl their hair for added depth and definition.
Incorporate a color-protecting hair mask into your routine to maintain the color between treatments.

4. French Twist

Is your calendar full of festive events and family get-togethers? Treat yourself to a hair appointment to try out one of the winter season’s most popular hair trends – the French twist.

It’s an effortlessly chic Parisian look that will see you through the holiday season. Our stylists can give you a polished French twist that’ll guarantee you a spot on the best-dressed list. It’s easy to master this look with the help of styling products and a little hairspray.

It can take some trial and error to perfect the French twist, but it’s easier than you might think. Keep a few strands loose around your face for a more casual look or sleek back the sides for a glamorous finish. You can add a little sparkle to this holiday season hairstyle with a sequin or pearl clip.

5. Butterfly Cut

Hair trends in the ‘90s were dominated by ‘The Rachel’, the hairstyle Jennifer Aniston wore in Friends. Flash forward to today and this iconic hairstyle has been given an update as the butterfly haircut. It’s been gaining popularity since the Spring and has become the must-try hairstyle for winter 2022.

This winter hair trend is universally flattering and works for all face shapes and hair types. The butterfly cut is an easy way to add extra volume to your hair and give it another dimension.

The name ‘butterfly’ comes from the shorter face-framing layers that blend into the longer layers of the hairstyle, creating the illusion of wings. These shorter layers typically sit at chin length, while longer layers go beyond the shoulders.

Want to take this winter hairstyle to the next level? Speak to our colorists about adding mini highlights to your face-framing sections to brighten your complexion.

You’ll want to add a volumizing spray to give your hair extra movement with this style. If you prefer a sleeker look, add a styling cream to flatten any flyaways or frizz.

These 5 winter cuts and styles are ones that our stylists can bring to life. The beauty of these trends is that you can tailor them to suit your face shape and complexion. Refresh your hair by booking an appointment at 212 Salon and Day Spa with one of our expert colorists or stylists. We’ll work with you to get your hair winter ready.

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The 90s Hair Trends Coming Back in 2023

t’s time to embrace your inner Rachel Green or Carrie Bradshaw. The 90s are back – at least for hair trends. ‘90s kids are letting nostalgia fuel their experiments with the era’s iconic hair trends, while Gen Z is discovering the decade’s hairstyles for the first time.

The ‘90s are a defining time for everything from TV shows to fashion trends. It was a time of prosperity with a happy-go-lucky feel that we all want to embrace for 2023. ‘90s trends are coming back into style, proving the theory that trends work on a cycle.

While ‘90s hair trends are back in vogue for 2023, a little styling can give these trends a contemporary feel. Our stylists at 212 Salon and Day Spa are working with clients to add a ‘90s flare to their favorite hairstyles. We’re sharing the 90s hair trends that will be everywhere in 2023.

Looking to refresh your look? Throw it back to the ‘90s.

The Rachel

Few hairstyles are as legendary as ‘The Rachel’. This trend takes its name from Rachel Green, Jennifer Anniston’s character in the sitcom ‘Friends’. While Jennifer Aniston has mixed feelings about her iconic look, The Rachel is a fool-proof hairstyle that always comes back in style.

It was created by Chris McMillan for Jennifer Aniston’s ‘Rachel’ character with a focus on layers. You can think of Aniston as one of the OG influencers. The hairstyle came to define the ‘90s with the term ‘The Rachel’ becoming universally recognized – both in and out of salons.

You can give ‘The Rachel’ a 2023 update by experimenting with face-framing bands and opting for shorter layers with warm highlights.  

The High Ponytail

One of the chicest ‘90s trends is the high ponytail. It’s universally flattering and makes you look instantly put together. This ‘90s hair trend works for any occasion and gives you the perfect excuse to experiment with hair accessories (another ‘90s classic!). You can give the high ponytail a contemporary feel by keeping your hair sleek and frizz-free for a Kardashian-worthy style.

The Baby Spice 

The ‘90s were a time of girl power. The Spice Girls are as legendary today as they were in the ‘90s. While Victoria Beckham is still setting fashion trends, Baby Spice’s high pigtails were one of the biggest ‘90s hair trends.

We’ll be experimenting with this ‘90s hair trend in 2023 for a nostalgic ‘it girl’ look. Elevate the casual pigtail trend with silk scrunchies or by crimping your hair. We don’t think it’ll be long until this trend is all over our TikTok FYP.

Bangs are Back

Bangs were everywhere in the ‘90s. It was a defining element of every ‘90s hair trend. We’re predicting that bangs are back for 2023. There’s a style of bangs for everyone, from curtain bangs to micro fringes. You can give your ‘90s-worthy bangs a modern update by incorporating them with face-framing layers and experimenting with textured cuts to make the look your own.

Fresh bangs can instantly transform your look and accentuate your natural features. You’ll want to consider your face shape when choosing which bangs are right for you. Our stylists will help you find your signature bangs.

One type of bangs we’re expecting to see everywhere in 2023 is the classic ‘90s swoopy side bang. It was made famous by Aaliyah and is the perfect way to show off shiny, smooth hair. Add it to a sleek high ponytail for the ultimate ‘90s look or make it contemporary with a deep parting and face-framing bangs.

The Midi Cut

Debating between short cut and letting your hair grow out? Get the best of both worlds with the classic ‘90s midi cut. The beauty of this hair trend is that it’s easy to customize and update for a contemporary feel. Add short layers and a little texture for extra movement and a fluffier, feminine look. Wispy layering will maintain the silhouette of the 90’s iconic midi cut, without making it look dated.

The Midi cut is versatile with good shaping helping to keep the look relatively fuss-free. If you’re going for a midi cut longer than your shoulders, you’ll need to do some daily styling. The one thing to consider with a longer midi cut is that it’s usually associated with the bouncy blow-out. Add a bit of character to your midi cut with curls or by straightening your hair.

Box Braids

Janet Jackson is a ‘90s icon who is still influencing hair trends today. Box braids have slowly been making a return with celebrities like Zendaya and Beyonce leading the way.

You can reimagine this ‘90s hair trend with extra comfort by experimenting with knotless box braids. This adapted version of the trend keeps the knot away from your scalp to leave your hair feeling lightweight. Don’t be afraid to add a bold pop of color to your braids and use extensions for longer braids.

Incorporate this ‘90s trend into your everyday look by wearing a messy bun with long face-framing box braids.

Rich-Girl Blonde

Some of our favorite ‘90s movies – like Legally Blonde and Clueless – all had one thing in common. The rich blonde girl. It’s no surprise that expensive-looking blonde hair is synonymous with the ‘90s and its era of icons like Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy and Princess Diana.

‘Hollywood blonde’ is once again making a comeback in hair trends. This color is ‘it girl’ chic but is a high-maintenance look that requires regular touch-ups for the roots. The beauty of this trend is that you can personalize it to fit your style, adding face-framing highlights or extra depth to your roots to make them easier to maintain.

These 7 ‘90s hair trends are all making a comeback in 2023. Our stylists are on hand to help you personalize each of these trends to suit your style, whether it’s curtain bangs or the iconic ‘Rachel’ hairstyle.

Book an appointment today at 212 Salon and Day Spa to experiment with ‘90s hair trends and find your new signature style for 2023.

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Why Vanilla Chai Blonde is Winter’s Top Color Trend

Why Vanilla Chai Blonde is Winter’s Top Color Trend

Blonde is a hair trend we often associate with summers spent catching the sun in Greece or sunbathing by the beach. It’s a common trend for women to switch to warmer tones in autumn and winter, waiting until next spring before going back to blonde. Vanilla chai blonde is a hair trend that proves that you can have blonde hair all year round.

This hair trend is a blonde-brunette hybrid that ticks all the boxes. We’re exploring why vanilla chai blonde has become winter’s top color trend and how our expert colorists can help you recreate the look. Make an appointment with 212 Salon and Day Spa to refresh your hair for winter.

What is Vanilla Chai Blonde?

Vanilla chai is a color trend that first became popular thanks to Amy McManus – known as Camouflage and Balayage on Instagram. It’s a cool ash-blonde shade that gets its name from its similarity to our favorite autumnal drink, spicy chai with a hint of vanilla. What we love about this color is that it gives you the best of both worlds, bridging the gap between blonde and brunette.

It's a bright blonde that she’s still cool for fall with darker roots for lower maintenance. You can imagine vanilla chai blonde as being dark roots with a vanilla undertone that blends to almost white strands on the mid-lengths. The beauty of this hair trend is that your colorist can customize it to your skin tone by adding blonder sections or darkening the roots to match your natural shade.

Vanilla chai blonde is the perfect color trend to experiment with for winter as it’s relatively low maintenance. You can match the roots to your natural color to go longer between appointments without worrying about regrowth. Your hair will blend with the darker roots as it grows out, making it easier to achieve a natural look.

Once spring and summer come around, we can transition your vanilla chai blonde into a beach-ready look with just one treatment.

Who is Vanilla Chai Blonde Best For?

Vanilla chai is the perfect way to start transitioning your hair to a lighter blonde shade, especially if your hair is a natural light brunette hue. You’ll get the best results from this trend if you have dark blonde hair or a natural light brown hue due to the color of the roots. It’s still possible to jump on this trend with darker hair as our colorists can add foils to achieve the same look.

The vanilla chai hair trend is perfect for those who want to shake up their look for winter without abandoning their blonde hair. We believe that blonde is always a good idea.

How to Achieve the Vanilla Chai Blonde Look

Creating the vanilla chai blonde look requires bleaching, meaning its best achieved with the help of a professional stylist. Our colorist team at 212 Salon and Day Spa is on hand to customize this trend to your natural hair color. Darker locks will take a little extra work to achieve the vanilla chai trend.

Your hair stylist will be able to advise on how many treatments it will take to achieve the perfect vanilla chai look for your hair. It’s a good idea to bring along a few inspiration photos to share your ideas on how the finished color should look.

Vanilla Chai as a Bridal Hair Trend

Are you a winter bride? Give your blonde or light brunette hair an update for winter with the vanilla chai trend. It’ll give your hair a seasonal look and make it easy to transition into brighter tones when spring and summer come around. You can work with your stylists to personalize the vanilla chai trend to your hair type to achieve the perfect bridal look.

The vanilla chai trend allows you to add as much blonde to your hair as you desire while maintaining a color near your natural roots. Not ready to go full vanilla chai? You can recreate this bridal hair trend on a smaller scale with highlights. It’s a low-maintenance hair trend that you can adapt for every season.

Maintaining Your Vanilla Chai Hair

Before you decide to try a new hair color, you need to know the maintenance that’ll come with it. Whether it’s your first time coloring your hair or your twentieth time, it’s vital to give your hair the TLC it needs to maintain its color and stay healthy.

We’re sharing our tips and tricks on how to keep your vanilla chai blonde hair looking fresh.

1. Color-Safe Hair Products

It starts by switching up your haircare routine to focus on color-safe products that have a sulfate-free formula. You’ll typically want a shampoo, conditioner, and hair mask to incorporate into your routine once a week. Your 212 Salon and Day Spa stylist will recommend the haircare products that are the most suitable for your hair type and condition.

2. Switch to Lukewarm Water

While we love a hot shower, your colored hair needs a lower temperature. A hot shower might be your favorite treat after a cold day, the hot water can strip your hair of its natural oils. Swapping out to lukewarm water, even just at the end of your shower, will help seal your hair cuticles and keep your hair hydrated.

3. Invest in Blonde Hair Products

Along with color-safe products, look out for oils and treatments designed with blonde hair in mind. Although you’ll have darker roots with the vanilla chai trend, it’s important to treat it as blonde hair to maintain the color.

We love the vanilla chai trend for its transitional look and versatility. It’s a winter hair trend that you can make your own and personalize to your complexion and natural hair color. Our expert colorists are on hand to get your hair ready for the winter season. Book an appointment today with 212 Salon and Day Spa to try the vanilla chai blonde trend for yourself.

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Meet the Barbiecore Hair Trend

Pink is the new black. It’s time to channel your inner Barbie and embrace every shade of pink. ‘Barbiecore’ is one of the biggest trends of 2022 with no signs of slowing down. The so-called ‘Barbiecore’ trend has been on the rise since designers like Valentino declared fuchsia pink their ‘it’ color.

Barbiecore is everywhere you look – from hair trends to nails and clothes. It’s impossible to scroll through social media without seeing the feminine pink hues staring back at you. Celebrities like Lizzo, Meghan Fox, and Machine Gun Kelly have been leading the way with head-to-toe pink looks.

Did you always dream of having pink hair as a kid? Now’s your chance! At 212 Salon and Day Spa, our hair colorists and stylists are on hand to bring your Barbie dreams to life. We’re exploring the Barbiecore trend and how you can maintain your Barbie locks if you take the plunge with pink hair.

What is Barbiecore?

Barbiecore is exactly what it says on the tin. It’s a style aesthetic inspired by the Barbie franchise with pink front and center. Barbiecore is one of the biggest fashion trends of the moment, brought to life by the growing hype around the upcoming ‘Barbie’ movie with Margot Robbie.

It’s a perfect storm with Valentino’s Autumn/Winter 2022 collecting putting hot pink center stage with feminine silhouettes. Pierpaolo Piccioli, Valentino’s Creative Director, describes pink as the color of “love, community, energy and freedom”. It encapsulates everything the whimsical Barbiecore trend stands for.

Barbie made its debut in the world of beauty in 1959 and has been influencing trends and styles ever since. It’s impossible to escape the Barbie aesthetic, whether it’s the glossy blonde hair or the infinity with all things pink.

Pinterest shows that searches for Barbiecore are on the rise with beauty trends. There’s been a 30% rise in searches for pink eyeshadow with pink lipstick seeing a 60% rise and pink nails getting 75%. We’ve seen Barbiecore trends pop up everywhere from Coachella to the Grammy’s and even the Met Gala.

How can you incorporate Barbiecore into your everyday look? Start from the top!

The Barbiecore Hair Trends

Pink is a color we’ve all considered dying our hair to. It might have been a mad suggestion or a childhood dream – but the Barbiecore trend means pink hair is back in style. Pink is Barbie’s signature shade and is synonymous with femininity, fun, and female empowerment.

It’s gone from a Halloween wig color to a celebrity-approved trend that everyone’s talking about. You can choose from blonde hair with pink balayage or go all in with fuchsia pink locks. Everyone from Lizzo to Joey King has put their twist on the Barbiecore hair trend.

You can jump into the deep end with bubblegum pink hair and follow the lead of J.Lo with a fresh pink cut. If you’re not sure about committing to pink hair long-term, experiment with a wig instead. You can take the Barbiecore trend to the next level by following Lizzo’s lead and coordinating your makeup with pink hair.

While pink hair is at the heart of Barbiecore, you can recreate the legendary character’s blonde locks for a more natural look. Embrace Barbie’s ‘60s-inspired look with bouncy blonde locks and a full fringe. It’s lower maintenance than pink hair and gives you a more wearable Barbie look.

What to Know About Having Pink Hair

Choosing to switch to pink hair shouldn’t be a split-second decision. Coloring your hair means you’ll need to give it a little extra TLC between treatments. There are side effects of hair coloring that you want to consider. Our expert colorists will guide you on how to care for your hair and maintain your new pink hair.

Not caring for your freshly colored hair means that your hair can become more brittle and prone to heat damage, as well as developing a rougher texture and thinning. You can avoid these side effects by following the advice of our expert colorists.

It’s important to remember that pink is a high-maintenance color as it isn’t a natural hue. Ammonia in the color dye can break the hair cuticle and damage your natural hair structure. These side effects shouldn’t put you off trying the Barbiecore trend as you can care for your hair to keep it healthy – even when it’s Barbie pink.

The reality of dying your hair pink is that the color will fade, particularly with the amount of maintenance it requires. You’ll want to upgrade your at-home routine to protect your hair during your hair-washing routine and maintain the vibrance of your color.

Swap your shampoo and conditioner for a sulfate-free formula to prevent color stripping. Don’t skip on conditioner! It’s your pink hair’s best friend.

Your 212 Salon and Day Spa hairstylist can recommend a shampoo that suits your hair type and condition. We suggest using products formulated for colored hair as they can improve the strength of your hair. These products typically avoid fragrances that create more lather in your hair, diluting the color overtime.

A nourishing shampoo and conditioner aren’t enough to maintain your Barbiecore hair. You can protect your hair by incorporating a weekly hair mask into your routine to keep your hair hydrated.

There is a spectrum of pink hues for you to choose from. It’s typically easier to choose a pink hue that is within three shades of your natural color. Darkening your hair will always be easier to achieve than lightening it. Our colorist can recommend a range of pink shades for you to choose from.

How to Rock the Barbiecore Aesthetic Day-to-Day

You don’t have to dye your hair pink to jump on the Barbiecore aesthetic. You can explore Pinterest for hundreds of ideas on how to experiment with pink and channel your inner Barbie.

Monochromatic pink is a way to experiment with different hues and trends. Take a leaf from the styling book of Kim Kardashian by wearing head-to-toe pink, whether it’s a little pink dress or a 2000s-inspired Juicy Couture tracksuit.

Are you not ready to commit to a full pink outfit? Start with the accessories. If there’s one fashion rule that Barbie taught us, it’s that more is more. Get creative with pink accessories, and don’t be afraid to throw it back with vintage trends. Go down nostalgia lane and rediscover your favorite trends from the early 2000s.

Book an appointment at 212 Salon and Day Spa today to live your Barbie fantasy. Pink hair doesn’t have to be just a daydream.

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Why You Should Continue Your Salon Education

Being a stylist means that your skillset is always evolving. You’re constantly learning new things – from the latest trends to mastering new techniques. Finishing your initial training will set you up to start trading as a hairstylist, but it isn’t enough to keep you at the top of your game.

Hairstylists are proof of the ethos of lifelong learning. Continuing your education will put you at the forefront of the latest innovations in the industry. You’ll master the art of balayage, the latest coloring techniques, and skills that can set your business apart.

Continuing professional development (CPD) is vital in every industry, but especially in our industry. Your CPD will ensure that you understand the latest products and techniques while enhancing your customer service skills. There’s no better investment you can make than in your education.

At 212 Salon and Spa, our classes allow you to continue your salon education on your own time. Our classes are held regularly and cover all cuts and colors. We offer curated lessons for assistants and stylists to tailor your education to you.

Continuing your education is one of the best investments any stylist can make. We’re sharing why every hairstylist should take regular classes to continue their education and development.

Mastering the Latest Techniques

Stylists are expected to do it all. Every client is different, and you never know what to expect. You could be jumping from a cut and color to a balayage treatment and a money piece. Adaptability and versatility are two skills every stylist needs.

Whether you offer a portfolio of services or specialize in specific treatments, you want to stay up to date with the latest techniques. Getting salon experience is also vital for newer stylists. Don’t underestimate the value of getting an in-salon education from colorists and hairstylists at the top of their game.

Learning new techniques can also keep you inspired. Being a hairstylist requires you to tap into your creativity. If you’re doing the same treatments every day, it’s easy to fall into a rhythm. Mastering new techniques allow you to tap into your creative side and stay excited about your work.

Staying Relevant with Trending Hairstyles

Hairstyle trends come and go. The trends you were taught during your initial training may no longer be in style. Investing in classes will allow you to develop your portfolio and introduce new hairstyles for your clients to try.

Staying relevant is vital for hairstylists. While you’ll often have a core group of clients, failing to offer the latest trends could see you lose clients. Continuing your education is the secret to being competitive. With a potential recession on the horizon, offering something different is what can future-proof your business.

Build Your Business

Are you a hairstylist thinking of going freelance or launching your own business? You’ll want to invest in classes to build your skill set and enhance your technical skills. Getting in-salon experience can give you an essential insight into how you can run your own salon or business.

Investing in education is an investment in the success of your business. Your skill set is your biggest asset. You might also choose to invest in training for your hairstylists if you’ve already built your business. Regular training for stylists will help you retain your talent, boost engagement, and maintain staff loyalty.

Your initial training will give you the building blocks you need to start your journey as a stylist. It’s how you continue your education that will set you apart from other stylists and salons.

Experimenting with Color Trends

Every salon has something that makes it special. You want to find your USP and lean into it. Experimenting with color trends is part of this. Color trends have extended beyond just the colors themselves.

Undertones, placement, and pigment play a vital role in your technique. Investing in hairstylist classes will allow you to experiment with trends and learn new techniques. Technique is everything for coloring. While your skillset will develop with time, investing in classes is the best way to go back to basics and master new coloring trends.

These trends also include treatments that are rivaling traditional coloring methods, such as balayage, ombre, wet-lights, and French glossing. As these color treatments continue to evolve, you’ll want to keep your portfolio fresh with salon-based classes. Continuing your education will enable you to focus your skillset on a niche or develop a portfolio of treatments to offer at your salon.

Building Your Reputation

Your clients are placing their trust in you when they visit your salon. Everything from your equipment to your skillset plays a role in the final product. Continuing your education helps to build credibility with your clients. You can develop your experience within a niche or diversify your portfolio to attract new clients.

Gone are the days when trade shows were one of the only ways for stylists to continue their education. It’s never been easier to have your finger on the pulse. You can develop your skills every day by using the tools that are right at your fingertips. Social media has the power to bring the industry to you, from exploring the latest trends to researching new techniques.

Investing in salon-based classes will give you the chance to expand and refresh your skillset. Whatever stage you are in your career, these classes can revitalize your skills and help to build your reputation with clients.

Continue Your Journey with 212 Salon + Spa

Hair trends and techniques are constantly changing. Continuing your salon education is vital for offering your clients the best service. Refining your skillset through regular classes will allow you to build a reputation, develop your portfolio, and grow your business.

Contact our team today to find out more about our educational classes that cover all cuts and colors. We’ll teach you the latest trends and techniques that are taking the industry by storm.

Our Monday classes are held once to twice a month with specific classes for assistants and stylists. Use our contact form to enquire about our upcoming salon classes.

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What is Magic Sleek? The Non-Toxic, Hair-Loving Treatment

Our hair takes up most of our morning routine. If you love the sleek look of straight hair or bouncy curls, you might spend even longer on your hair. We’re more aware than ever before of the dangers of heat damage to our hair. It’s why many of our clients are choosing to invest in straightening treatments to get a sleek look without the daily use of hot tools. Who doesn’t want to save time in the morning?

Straightening treatments aren’t new. They’ve been around for years. If you’re a haircare aficionado you’ve probably heard a few horror stories in your time. Not all straightening treatments are made equal. While Keratin is one of the most popular, other treatments such as Brazilian and Japanese treatments have gained notoriety.

At 212 Salon and Spa, we have a new alternative for you to try. Meet ‘Magic Sleek’. This formaldehyde-free hair straightening treatment is an alternative to mainstream treatments that rely on toxic chemicals for short-term results.

Are you looking for the classic Hollywood look? Dive into the world of Magic Sleek with our ultimate guide to this hair-loving straightening treatment.

What is Magic Sleek?

Magic Sleek is a safer alternative to popular hair straightening treatments and methods, including Brazilian, Keratin, and Japanese treatments. This innovative treatment allows you to embrace your natural hair texture and strengthen your hair right from the scalp.

It’s suitable for all hair types and works to transform, rejuvenate, and nourish your hair from within. Magic Sleek offers a hat-trick of treatments, from working to define curls to straightening hair and eliminating frizz.

What makes Magic Sleek unique is that it’s a fully customizable system that allows you to experiment with your hairstyle. This nourishing treatment works to add shine and life to your hair, strengthening even the most damaged and difficult hair.

It starts by rejuvenating even the most brittle of hair by giving it the hydration it needs and locking in moisture. Magic Sleek has been featured in some of the industry’s biggest publications, including Harper’s Bazaar, ELLE, and Marie Claire, as one of the best alternatives to keratin treatments.

The Benefits of Magic Sleek

Magic Sleek was launched in 2011 as an alternative to the mainstream hair treatments that relied heavily on formaldehyde and chemical ingredients.

Formaldehyde is a toxic ingredient that you want to avoid in your haircare routine. It produces a strong aroma that can result in respiratory issues and skin irritation, along with dizziness.

There are two types of Magic Sleek treatments to choose from with varying results. The ‘Magic Sleek Traditional’ treatment typically lasts up to 6 months, while the ‘Magic Sleek Express’ gives results for up to 4 months.

Using Magic Sleek Maintenance products can help to prolong your treatment and give you the best results. What we love about Magic Sleek is that it’s a fuss-free treatment. You can wash your hair right after your appointment and even jump in the ocean just 10 days after your treatment.

As Magic Sleek does not contain formaldehyde or harsh chemicals, it’s considered safe for pregnant women. However, we always suggest speaking to your physician before using any such treatment.

Magic Sleek vs. Keratin Treatments

A keratin treatment is a chemical procedure that works to straighten your hair, produce a glossy shine, and reduce frizz. Its results typically last for six months, similar to Magic Sleek.

The treatment starts with washing your hair before brushing the Keratin treatment through your hair and allowing it to develop for 30 minutes. Alternatively, some salons choose to blow dry the hair first before using a flat iron to seal in the Keratin treatment in small sections.

Keratin treatments are popular for those who want to make their hair more manageable, particularly if you struggle with frizz. This chemical treatment can reduce drying time and fortify your hair.

However, the biggest drawback of the Keratin treatment is that most contain formaldehyde. This chemical is what makes your hair appear straightener. Some Keratin treatments switch formaldehyde for glyoxylic acid but can’t produce the same results.

Magic Sleek can give you the same results as a Keratin treatment without the consequences of formaldehyde. Unlike a keratin treatment, you can dye your hair right after having a Magic Sleek treatment. You’ll usually have to wait 2 weeks after a Keratin treatment before coloring your hair and 3 to 4 days before washing your hair.

You can switch up your color immediately as Magic Sleek uses non-toxic ingredients. However, we recommend waiting 2 weeks before using a bleach treatment for highlights or balayage.

Magic Sleek vs. Brazilian Blowout

A Brazilian blowout treatment often falls under the keratin category. It’s a chemical process popularly used to detangle your hair and give it a smoother texture. Brazilian treatments are suitable for all hair types and are ideal for making your hair easier to style.

This treatment is suitable for dyed or bleached hair but results typically only last two to four months. The lifespan of a Brazilian blowout is around half that of the Magic Sleek treatment. Your natural hair texture will typically return within five washes with a Brazilian blowout, while the Magic Sleek gives you long-term results.

Magic Sleek vs. Japanese Straightening

A Japanese straightening treatment is different from the Keratin and Brazilian methods as it uses thermal reconditioning. It’s a more evasive treatment that permanently straightens your hair by removing up to 90% of its curl, frizz, and volume. This treatment restructures your hair bonds and was popular in Japan during the ‘90s.

However, it relies heavily on chemical ingredients and can compromise the integrity of your hair as a result. While Japanese Straightening is a permanent treatment, you can get similar results with Magic Sleek without damaging your hair follicles.

You’ll still need to maintain your Japanese treatment with regular touch-ups every eight to ten months. This time frame is only around two months longer than a Magic Sleek treatment.

Whether you want to define your curls or reduce frizz, Magic Sleek is the safest and most effective treatment on the market.

We’re proud to support Magic Sleek as a woman-owned and family-run brand. 212 Salon and Spa supports its mission to create a safer and healthier haircare industry that puts customers like you first.

Achieve your hair goals with a non-toxic treatment that will help you build long-term results. Book in for a Magic Sleek treatment at 212 Salon and Spa to start your haircare journey today.

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