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.


Introducing James Geoia - Stylist and Director of Education

212 Salon and Day Spa is proud to announce their newest team member, James Geoia.

James Geoia joins as 212 Salon and Day Spa's Artistic Director in hair cutting and Styling Educational Program. Internationally trained by Vidal Sassoon, Toni and Guy and Jingles.

James has been an Educational Director for upscale salons in New York City for more than 25 years. His years of international training with Sassoon and TIGI have been second to none.

“My approach to hairstyling can be best described as contemporary versatility, with a hint of avant-garde” says James. He offers a comprehensive consultation for all new clients that includes careful consideration of his client's facial features, hair texture, and lifestyle.

We are proud to have James as an addition to our professional team!

In addition to haircutting, James will also be serving as 212's artistic Director of Education.

If you would like to be a model for one of James' educational program classes, please call 973-509-2120 to speak with Judy for scheduling.


An Introduction to Facials for Beginners

Beauty trends may come and go, but healthy skin will stand the test of time. While your skincare routine is your skin’s first defense, facials go the extra mile to your skin exactly what it needs. Whether you’re a skincare newbie or invest in the latest must-have skincare, facials are a pick-me-up for your skin.

At 212 Salon and Day Spa, facials are amongst our most popular treatments. They’re the perfect way to reset your skin and are the ultimate form of self-care. Our range of facials includes targeted anti-aging collagen treatments and a range of add-ons to tailor your facial to your skincare needs.

This introduction to facials for beginners will deep dive into the world of facial treatments to help you find the perfect one for you. Whether it’s anti-aging or treating skin conditions like rosacea, facials have something to offer every skin type.

What is a Facial?

Most facials start by cleansing your skin, combining a gentle face massage with high-quality products to prepare your skin. After exfoliating to remove dead skin cells and impurities, your therapist will steam your skin to open your pores to help with the absorption of active ingredients. Depending on your facial, the steaming may use hot towels to prepare your skin.

The most important stage of any facial is extraction. It’s when your aesthetician will work to remove the impurities from the outer layer of your skin, including acne and blackheads. What makes facials different from each other is the mask or peel that they incorporate.

These treatments are often the main selling point of the treatment and focus on specific skin concerns, such as anti-aging or hyperpigmentation. Your facial will usually end with a moisturizer to lock in the active ingredients and hydration.

Why Facials are a Skincare Must-Have

Facials come with dozens of benefits and work in unison with your regular skincare routine to provide long-lasting results. The goal of any facial is to cleanse and rejuvenate your skin. Depending on the products used, your facial may help to prevent premature aging or to treat specific skin concerns, such as rosacea.

How Often Should You Have a Facial?

One of the most common questions we get is, “how often should I have a facial?”. The answer depends on your skin type and whether you’re working towards any specific skin goals.

Most people can benefit from having a facial every 4 to 6 weeks, in line with their skin’s cellular cycle. Your therapist will recommend the best program of treatments for your skin type.

Facials at 212 Salon and Day Spa

At 212 Salon and Day Spa, we offer a range of facials curated for specific skin types. Our purifying facial is designed for oily skin types, providing a gentle exfoliation to help unclog your pores and restore your skin’s natural radiance.

Do you have dry or sensitive skin? Our ‘delicate’ facial is designed with sensitive skin in mind, tailored to treat skin conditions such as rosacea. This 75-minute treatment will rejuvenate and soothe your skin.

Microdermabrasion and acne treatments

Microdermabrasion is a type of facial that helps to smooth the skin’s texture to diminish the appearance of fine lines, age spots, and hyperpigmentation.

We recommend a cycle of 6 microdermabrasion treatments for the best results. It’s an ideal facial treatment to start before a big event, whether you’re a bride or giving your skin a little extra help. Our 6-series package gives you $100 off your 6th treatment.

Our acne facials deliver a deep cleanse that help to clear your complexion. Along with acne facial treatments, we offer similar services to tackle back acne. It delivers the same results and combines the benefits of a facial and massage to visibly clear your skin’s complexion.

VIP Vitamin C Facial

One of our best-selling facials is our ‘VIP Vitamin C’ treatment. Vitamin C is one of the most talked-about natural ingredients in the beauty industry. It works to visibly brighten your skin’s complexion, including diminishing the appearance of age spots and hyperpigmentation.

Vitamin C is ideal for all skin types as it helps to repair skin damage caused by UV radiation and supports your skin’s natural protective barrier. If your skin needs a little TLC, our VIP vitamin C facial is the perfect place to start.

Express Facials

Facials are the perfect way to level up your skincare routine. Think of them as a welcome break for your skin and a chance to relax. If you don’t have time for a spa day, book in for an express facial instead.

Express facials are ideal for incorporating into your regular routine or to help prepare your skin in the weeks before a big event. If you’re a bride or jetting off on vacation, regular express facials can keep your skin healthy and glowing.

Our facials are available in 30- and 45-minute intervals, making them perfect for your lunch break. We also recommend our express facials for teens who are looking to start exploring treatments for the first time.

Tailor Your Facial to Your Skin Type

The beauty of facials is that you can tailor them to exactly what your skin needs. At 212 Salon and Day Spa, your therapist will work with you to identify what your skin needs and recommend the best treatments.

Whether it’s anti-aging or dry skin, our add-on services allow you to customize your facials for a targeted treatment. Our add-on services include:

  • Anti-aging collagen treatment – for rejuvenating skin to leave it plump and firm.
  • Anti-wrinkle eye treatment – designed as a targeted add-on to prevent premature aging.
  • Aromatherapy as a soothing addition to your facial to relieve stress and anxiety.
  • Deep hydrating treatments – ideal for dry and sensitive skin.
  • Rosacea soothing treatment to tackle redness and skin irritation.
  • Dark spot treatment
  • Eye treatment

Book Your Facial at 212 Today

Give your skin the love it deserves by visiting the team at 212 Salon and Day Spa for a facial. Our team will help you identify any skin concerns and recommend the best facials and treatments for your skin type. Book your facial today by using our online portal here.


An Introduction to Massages for Beginners

Do you ever feel like you need to just relax and unwind? You need a massage. It’s what the doctor ordered. Massages are amongst our most popular treatments at 212 Salon and Day Spa. A massage is a perfect way to relax your muscles and steal some time away for self-care.

Whether you’re a newcomer to spa treatments or enjoy regular appointments, a massage will recharge your mind and body. They act as a natural remedy to treat common ailments and can reduce stress and anxiety. Massages are not only a form of self-care, but a necessary treatment for athletes and those dealing with chronic illnesses.

This guide is an introduction to massages and covers everything you need to know about the most popular massages. Whether it’s a Swedish or deep tissue massage, these treatments have something to offer everyone.

How Often Should You Have a Massage?

As massages are non-invasive, you could book yourself in for a regular massage as often as every 2-3 weeks. Certain clients, including pregnant women and athletes, can benefit most from these regular massages. We recommend monthly massages for those using the treatment to help with anxiety and stress.

If you’re using massages to cope with chronic pain or injuries, your therapist will be able to recommend a course of treatments to help your condition. You can help to get the most out of your massage treatments by incorporating regular stretching at home between treatments.

Massages at 212 Salon and Day Spa

At 212 Salon and Day Spa, we offer a full range of massages that cater to all your needs. What makes our massages unique is our additional add-on options that allow you to customize your treatment. Our add-on massage services include:

  • Aromatherapy oils to take your self-care to the next level and reduce stress and anxiety.
  • Foot massage to soothe tired muscles and add a skip to your step.
  • Scalp massage to reduce muscle tension, promote hair growth, and reduce headaches and migraines.

Swedish Massage

Massages are a popular natural remedy for muscle and chronic pain. A Swedish massage is one of the most popular as it helps to release muscle tension and is commonly known as a ‘full body’ massage.

It’s a gentle massage and ideal for beginners and those who want to focus on relaxation. During a Swedish massage, your therapist will focus on your neck, shoulders, and lower back to release any tension.

Your therapist will use several techniques during a Swedish massage, including long strokes, kneading, deep circular, and passive joint movements. These massage techniques are designed to help you relax and increase your blood flow and lymph drainage. They can also help to stimulate nerve ends while allowing you to focus on any specific problem areas.

Our Swedish massages are available in 30-, 60-, and 90-minute treatments.

Deep Tissue Massage

You can take your treatment one step further by choosing a deep tissue massage. This massage is similar to a Swedish massage but goes deeper. With slow strokes that focus on the connective tissue.

It’s an ideal choice for those recovering from injuries. Most athletes and runners use deep tissue massages as part of their regular routine to prevent injuries and help with recovery.

Deep tissue massages are ideal for those who suffer from chronic pain, including lower back pain and fibromyalgia. During this massage, your therapist will target the dense connective tissue (known as fascia), tendons, and muscles. The therapist will use the same movements as a Swedish massage but will apply more pressure, which can be painful depending on your pain levels.

After a deep tissue massage, you can expect to feel soreness in your muscles in the days following. Using ice, heat, and regular stretching can help your body recover after a deep tissue massage.

Our deep tissue massages are available in 60- and 90-minute treatments.

Hot Stone Massage

Another popular treatment at 212 Salon and Day Spa is our hot stone massage. This relaxing massage uses flat and heated stones to release muscle tension and damaged soft tissue. These smooth stones are made using basalt that helps to retain heat.

During a hot stone massage, the stones are strategically placed across your spine, stomach, face, palms, chest, feet, and toes. While the stone can be laid flat, your therapist can also use it to aid with the traditional techniques used in a Swedish massage.

Another known as a ‘hot stone massage’, cold stones can also be used to help soothe the skin and engorged blood vessels. A hot stone massage can help relieve stress and anxiety while promoting sleep. It’s an ideal treatment for those suffering from autoimmune diseases and cancer symptoms as it can reduce pain and offer a greater motion range.

Our hot stone massages are available in 60- and 90-minute treatments.

Reflexology

Reflexology is a massage that focuses on applying pressure to the ears, hands, and feet due to their connection with the overall body system. A therapist who performs reflexology is known as a ‘reflexologist’.  It’s based on the ancient Chinese theory of vital energy that believes such energy flows through our bodies.

When we’re stressed, this energy becomes blocked and the imbalance can lead to illness. This Chinese medicine connects different body parts with pressure points that are connected to the body’s energy flows.

Reflexology can help to reduce pain, stress, and anxiety. It can also improve your overall well-being and boost your mood. Anecdotal evidence suggests that reflexology can improve digestion, ease arthritis pain, and boost your immune system. Reflexology is a safe and non-invasive treatment that is an ideal choice for beginners.

Our reflexology treatments are available in 30-, 60-, and 90-minute sessions.

Book Your Massage at 212 Today

Relax and rejuvenate by visiting the team at 212 Salon and Day Spa for a soothing massage. Our team will help you find the perfect massage that combines self-care with the best nourishing skin treatments. Book your massage today by using our online portal here.

 


Why Multi-Dimensional Blonde is the ‘It’ Style for Summer 2022

Have you been toying with the idea of going blonde? Perhaps you’re a natural blonde bombshell who wants to change up her look? Multi-dimensional blonde is one of the biggest hair trends for summer 2022. It’s a way of getting the perfect blonde hair for you by adding warmer or cooler tones to complement your complexion.

Is your blonde hair starting to feel dull? Do you want to try something new without committing to a full new color? This trend is an easy way to take your natural blonde to the next level. If you’re transitioning to blonde, this trend works just as well. Instead of bleaching your hair, it focuses on lifting the color in a controlled way that adds extra tone and dimension to your look.

We’re sharing everything you need to know about the multi-dimensional blonde hair trend and why it’s one to look out for in 2022. At 212 Salon and Day Spa, this is one trend that our clients and stylists alike are loving for spring and summer.

What is multi-dimensional blonde hair?

Whether you’re a blonde or brunette, you’ll fall in love with the idea of multidimensional blonde. It gives you the flexibility to experiment with different shades of blonde, including highlights, to find the perfect formula for you. This trend is all about adding different hues of blonde to your hair to add extra depth or lightness to your overall look.

If you don’t want to abandon your brunette hair but want to flirt with the idea of going blonde, this trend is also for you. It can be less harsh than highlights and give you the option of experimenting with darker shades of caramel blonde that lighten your overall look.

You can go a few hews lighter or darker depending on the look you’re going for. Achieving a multi-dimensional blonde is all about working with your stylist to create a custom color that works for your skin tone, features, and personality. Whether you’re going to the dark side or want to get your hair beach-ready, multi-dimensional blonde has something to offer everyone.

One of the benefits of multi-dimensional blonde is that it allows you to achieve a softer and more natural look. It’s easy for an all-over blonde color to end up looking artificial. With the right placement and mixture of hues, you can create a multi-tonal look that adds depth to your hairstyle and enhances your features.

Whatever tones you’ll choose, larger slices of the tones will be kept to the back and sides of the hair, while finer slices appear through the parting and to frame your face. Instead of highlights, you’ll usually be experimenting with lowlights instead.

Why you should consider multi-dimensional blonde

The multi-dimensional trend is ideal for those who want to go blonde in a holistic way to achieve a more natural and less artificial look. It can give you an illuminated blonde look by blending cooler lowlights that offer extra depth to your hair than choosing to use one color all over.

Do you want to change your hair with the seasons? Most people like to go lighter in the summer and darker in the winter. The beauty of multi-dimensional blonde is that you can transition it through the season. The first decision you have to make is to decide what type of blonde look you’re going for.

What we love about this hair trend is that it offers something for everyone. It’s not a one-size-fits-all approach to hair but instead puts you in control by choosing the blonde hues that will transform your look. There are dozens of different looks that you can try within this trend.

Mushroom blonde is a classic example of how you can use this multi-dimensional blonde to color correct darker hair or to give you an ashier look. It adds a vibrancy to your hair and adds a hint of blonde without losing the deep brunette shade. By adding this multi-dimensional look, you can create the illusion of the colors blending together.

If you want to experiment with a full multi-dimensional look and add a balayage, utilize toner and lightener to get your dream color. This so-called ‘Baileys Irish Cream’ look can take a few sessions to achieve, but it’s worth the hard work. It’s ideal for brunettes who want to transition to a bright blonde without damaging their hair or committing to regular upkeep with their roots.

You can also achieve a summer look by experimenting with golden tones. This multi-dimensional look involves being strategic with where you place the lighter blonde sections to frame your face and create a natural ombre effect. Darker blondes looking to freshen up their hairstyle for summer will want to focus their multi-dimensional look on adding golden hues with a balayage style approach.

How to care for multi-dimensional blonde hair

Like any hairstyle, multi-dimensional blonde hair requires a little extra TLC. You want to invest in a hair care system that will nourish your new blonde hues. Whether you’re transitioning to blonde or shaking up your natural color, the secret is to keep it hydrated.

Conditioner is your best friend when you’re adding any blonde shades to your hair. Read the labels for every product in your routine and remove any that contain sulfates.

There are lots of easy changes you can make to keep your new blonde hues looking fresh. Finish off your regular hair washing routine with cold water to help close your hair cuticles. Incorporate heat protection and lightweight hydrating oils into your routine to repair, protect, and rejuvenate your hair. During the summer months, you want to try avoiding the sun to help your color last.

With a multi-dimensional blonde treatment, you can experiment with some of the biggest blonde hair color trends for 2022. With summer right around the corner, it’s the perfect time to try something new. Book an appointment with 212 Salon and Day Spa to start your new blonde hair journey. Our stylists will work with you to achieve the perfect custom look for you.

 


Why The Bixie Is the Must-Have Short Cut For 2022

Beauty trends are all about going back to basics. Whether it’s a ‘skin first’ approach or the iconic Olaplex bun, it’s all about creating a sleek, flawless look. While we love long hair, it can be high maintenance. A bob or a pixie is effortlessly chic. It’s inspired one of the biggest hair trends of the year - the '90s Bixie.

We’re already seeing this hairstyle on some of the biggest celebrities of today, including Florence Pugh. This haircut is easy to customize with a fringe to frame your features or for easy styling. You can customize your look with a more graduated shape for a Parisian twist or keep it feathered for a feminine feel.

This look is half bob, half pixie with its copped layers and feathered ends. It’s the best of both worlds – and one that we’re head over heels for. Before you jump into the styling chair for your Bixie haircut, you want to consider your hair type.

At 212 Salon and Day Spa, the Bixie is one of our favorite looks of the year. With spring around the corner, the Bixie is the perfect way to change up your look. We’re sharing everything you need to know about this iconic ‘90s look and how you can achieve it.

What is the Bixie?

The Bixie is the lovechild of a bob and pixie cut. It’s universally flattering with the volume of a pixie and the versatility of a classic bob. The beauty of the Bixie is that your stylist can customize it to accentuate your features. This hairstyle trend is all about creating an effortless look that is elegant but wearable for every day.

The Bixie hairstylist is characterized by its invisible layers and feathered ends that call back to the shaggy bob and classic pixie cut. The length of the Bixie sits between a short pixie and a shoulder-length bob. There are no rules for a Bixie. You can make it entirely your own – with a little help from your stylist.

With ‘90s trends making a comeback across the beauty industry, it’s no surprise to see the Bixie making a comeback. The haircut was the go-to look for celebrities like Meg Ryan and Cameron Dias. It was even the signature look of Princess Diana.

Out of all the ‘90s looks, the Bixie is one of the standouts that has stood the test of time. Today’s Hollywood icons – like Florence Pugh and Kristen Stewart – have already jumped on the Bixie trend this season. We first fell back in love with the look when Rowan Blanchard debuted it at the 2019 Paris Fashion Week. Since then, it’s been making a slow but steady comeback to the forefront of fashion.

The Bixie is the perfect transitioning haircut. Whether you’re looking to grow out your pixie or you want to experiment with a bob, this haircut has something to offer everyone. Whether you’re transitioning through the seasons of life or want to try something new, the Bixie has your back.

Who is a Bixie cut for?

Anyone who wants a short haircut can rock a Bixie. It’s all about how you do the cut. Your hair density and texture will usually determine your finished look. You can customize your Bixie to meet your preferences – whether it’s keeping it low maintenance or matching your hair growth pattern.

A Bixie works with almost any style of bangs, making it an ideal option for women of any age. Feathered bangs with a Bixie will give you a youthful look, while side bangs help to frame your face. If you want a Bixie look that you can easily air-dry, ask your stylist to add more texture to your hair. This cut gives you a more modern look than a blunt cut and is low maintenance for those who prefer not to use heat on their hair.

You also want to consider how your hair grows. Hair growth can make your cut look misshaped over time if you don’t have regular touch-ups. If your hair grows down instead of out, ask for your Bixie to have more of a bob cut with a long pixie look.

Don’t forget about your hair texture. The Bixie is your best friend if you have medium texture hair, as it’ll hold the cut beautifully. If you have thicker hair, your stylist will work with you to make sure the top of your hair doesn’t appear too heavy. While finer hair won’t give you the same sleep choppy layers, you can still experiment with this look.

The Bixie cut is one that anyone can rock – from their 20s through to their 50s. You’ll find this hairstyle popping up all over your social media feeds. Its wearability means that the Bixie is quickly becoming the ‘it’ hairstyle for 2022. If you want to stand out from the crown, a Bixie is your one-way ticket to stardom.

How to style your Bixie

There’s no rule book for styling a Bixie. You can have as much fun with it as you want. You can keep it messy or go as sleek as you want.

The secret to styling your Bixie is understanding your hair’s growth pattern. You’ll usually want to focus your styling on your roots to create a voluminous shape while adding body and texture to the mid-lengths of your hair.

You can style your Bixie look in a hundred different ways. We love Florence Pugh’s ‘I woke up like this’ look by keeping it messy and texturized. Emma Corrin is another celebrity rocking this look. The Crown actress keeps her look sleek and close to her head for a Kate Moss-worthy look.

The Bixie gives you the freedom to create a sophisticated look or to channel your inner Rockstar chic. It’s all in the styling. Speak to your stylist about how you’d like to wear your Bixie day-to-day, and they’ll create the best cut for you.

Are you ready to experiment with the Bixie? 212 Salon and Day Spa are here to help you create your new signature look. Book your appointment with one of our friendly hairstylists today.


The Low-Maintenance Highlights You Need to Try

Have you ever wanted highlights but been put off by the maintenance? Most of us have imagined getting highlights at least once. They’re a simple way to freshen up your look without committing to an all-over color. What makes people unsure about highlights is the financial and time commitment of regular touch-up appointments.

If this sounds like you, we’ve found the perfect solution. Meet the easy, low-maintenance highlights that are revolutionizing the hairstyle world. This style is the perfect choice for transitioning your hairstyle from winter to spring, and it works for every hair color.

We’re sharing everything you need to know about this hair trend and how to get the most out of this look. At 212 Salon and Day Spa, this trend is one that we’re raving about for 2022.

Meet the easy highlights that are low maintenance

When we think of highlights, we usually imagine all-over blonde streaks that require regular maintenance. What makes these easy highlights different is that they’re focused solely around your face. Their placement helps brighten your complexion and adds an extra dimension to your face.

You get the benefits of highlights without worrying about regular maintenance that comes from the traditional style. This low-maintenance hairstyle is similar to the “money piece” style but doesn’t go as far as it.

These easy highlights take their inspiration from classic laidback ‘90s highlights but with a softer look. Your stylist will help you find the best shade to flatter to natural hair color, usually be 3-4 shades brighter for the biggest impact.

Will highlights suit me?

What we love about these easy highlights is that they’re universally flattering. Whatever your base hair color is, these highlights will help to accentuate your natural features and brighten your complexion. Whether you’re a chocolate brown or a beach blonde, you can experiment with this low-maintenance hairstyle.

If you want to make your highlights pop, you’ll need to focus on your skincare. These easy highlights are the perfect choice for those who love a laidback and natural look. Incorporating a hydrating mask like the Timexpert SRNS Repair Night Progress Mask can help your skin maintain a healthy glow. Glowing skin is the perfect companion for easy highlights and can give you a flawless and effortless look.

Why you should try these low-maintenance highlights

If you’re looking to freshen up your hair without making a long-term commitment, this hairstyle is the one for you. It’s more maintainable and affordable than traditional highlights. This style helps you experiment and find what works for you, whether it’s a full-color look or upgrading to a balayage.

If you’re on a budget or want a subtle change, these easy highlights give you a big impact without worrying about the high maintenance of traditional highlights. Our stylists will work with you to get the best placement to flatter your features and help brighten your complexion. This trend is the perfect transitional style that works all year round. Give your hair a refresh by booking in for easy highlights with one of our stylists today.


What are Bold Bangs?

New year. New you. There’s no better way to kickstart the new year than with a new hairstyle. You don’t have to chop off your hair or go for a daring color to try something new. Your bangs are one of the easiest – and quickest – ways to transform your appearance. Bold bangs are a hair trend everyone is talking about for 2022 and for good reason.

Whether you’ve got a pixie cut or Rapunzel-length hair, blunt bangs work for almost everyone. We’re covering everything you need to know about this hair trend and how you can style this look. If you’re thinking of changing up your look for the new year, why not try out blunt bangs?

What are bold bangs?

Bold bangs are exactly that. They’re full, load, and unapologetically feminine. These bangs have a blunt and sharp cut that isn’t feathered at the ends. Your bangs fall across your forehead as straight as possible. If you have naturally straight or thicker hair, bold bangs are your best friends.

What we love about these blunt bangs is that they’re a more sophisticated look. They work for everyone from their 20s to 50s. It’s all about how you style them. Bold bangs look best on oval face shapes, but they work for almost everyone. Your stylist can alter these bangs for you by creating an arch to help elongate your face.

How to style your bold bangs

The best way to keep your bold bangs looking fresh is to give skin the TLC it needs during winter. Blunt bangs frame your face and bring attention to your t-zone, meaning you’ll want to stay on top of your skincare routine. The Timexpert SRNS Repair Night Progress Mask is our go-to overnight treatment that helps protect your skin during winter and fights against premature aging.

When you’re styling your bold bangs day-to-day, you can get adventurous with your look. While sleek straight hair is a classic look, it isn’t the only one you can try. As the season starts to change, embrace your hair’s natural texture, and have fun with wavy bold bangs and your natural curls. A curl mousse can help you achieve a softer yet structured look to your waves.

If you’re a fan of laidback looks, blunt bangs are the style for you. You can experiment with textured and messy hairstyles for the ultimate “I woke up like this” look.

What to consider when choosing blunt bangs

While we love blunt bangs, it’s worth considering that they’re not low maintenance. The key to this look is to keep your bangs looking blunt and shapely. You’ll want to book in for regular appointments to keep your bangs looking fresh. Dry shampoo will also be your best friend to keep your bangs looking fresh.

Depending on how quickly your hair grows, you may need to have your bangs cut every three weeks. Bold bangs and flawless skin will give you a classic Parisian look for heading into spring. Ready to give the trend a try? Book an appointment with one of our stylists today.


Meet the ‘Expensive Brunettes’ Trend That’s Every Celebrity is Loving Right Now

We all know the phrase ‘blondes have more fun’, but is that still true today? There’s a new brunette trend on the scene that everyone is talking about for winter 2021/2022. Meet the ‘Expensive Brunette’ trend. Whether you’re looking to become a brunette or update your brown locks, this trend is one of our favorites for the season.

This hair trend is about adding warmth and depth to your brunette looks for an extra sense of dimension. When you’re a brunette, it’s easy for your hair to seem one-dimensional or flat – especially if you color your hair at home. This winter hair trend is all about multi-tonal colors with a glossy finish that give your hair a new lease on life.

At 212 Salon and Day Spa, our professional colorists are on hand to help you experiment with the ‘expensive brunettes’ trend to achieve a celebrity-worthy look. Read on to find out more about this hair trend and how the ‘expensive brunette’ look can give your hair an elevated update for the winter months.

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What is the ‘expensive brunettes’ trend?

This trend is exactly what it says on the tin. ‘Expensive brunette’ is the hairstyle that makes you think of a glamorous heiress or a powerful businesswoman. It’s a multi-dimensional hairstyle that incorporates carefully placed hues that are warm up your complexion. This hairstyle catches the light and brings your hair’s natural radiance to the surface.

The expensive brunette trend is a favorite amongst celebrities, including Bella Hadid and Hailey Bieber, who recently ditched her blonde locks for a darker look. Gone are the days when blonde was considered the ‘rich’ hair color. Since Blair Waldorf graced our screens, the heiresses and boss babes have been brunette.

What we love about this trend is that it’s relatively low maintenance. It’s a perfect choice for the woman who wants a ‘wow’ look without sitting in the salon chair every few weeks. This trend shows that less really can be more. You can use a gloss to add depth to your hair and enhance your natural skin tone or play around with color for a more personalized look.

 

How to achieve the ‘expensive brunettes’ look

If you want to experiment with this trend, let us know that you’re interested in the ‘expensive brunette’ look. The secret is to focus on adding depth and dimension to your hair by playing with different deep and light shades to create a natural contrast. The placement of your color is the most important element when creating this look, especially if you want to get the most out of your haircut.

You’ll also want to consider your skin tone when deciding which hues to choose. For the best results, you want to choose shades that compliment your skin tone. Cooler shades that you can use include ash brown and taupe, while caramel and copper are warmer options.

One aspect that is often overlooked is that this trend has a lived-in look that focuses on making the color placement look as natural as possible. You want to make it seem like the gods blessed you with the perfect hair.

The beauty of the ‘expensive brunette’ trend is that you don’t have to commit to a hair dye. Your hairstylist can create the look using your natural hair and a clear gloss or glaze to restore your hair’s radiance. You can also use our color service to go from blonde to an expensive brunette or to add a few strands of color to your natural hair.

 

Who should try the expensive brunette look?

Are you a blonde thinking of going brunette? You can follow the example of Hailey Bieber and use this trend as a more natural way of going brunette. You don’t have to worry about regrowth and use highlights to achieve your desired brunette look.

If you’re a natural brunette, you can still use this trend to bring life back to your hair – especially if you think it’s looking flat or lifeless. Dakota Johnson added gold lowlights to her chocolate brown hair to give it a two-dimensional look and to lighten its overall appearance.

Another celebrity that you can draw inspiration from is Ciara, who added a personal twist to the expensive brunette trend by focusing her lighter hues around her face. This trick helps to warm your complexion and is perfect for anyone with curtain bangs or layered hair.

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You don’t have to give up your dark brunette locks to experiment with this trend. Zoey Deutch offers another take on this trend by adding copper undertones to her dark brunette hair to give an auburn-inspired illusion to her locks. Deutch has gone from blonde to brunette to red and black before settling on this expensive brunette look.

So, the short answer? The expensive brunette trend is for everyone – whether you’re a natural brunette or looking to transition to the color.

With natural hairstyles becoming all the rage for 2022, the expensive brunette trend is one that we’re expecting to become a standout for 2022. It’s an easy, transitional style that is low maintenance and works for every season. At 212 Salon and Day Spa, our team of colorists and hairstylists is on hand to help you bring this trend to life.

 

Still looking for festive gifts?

The holidays are right around the corner. Most of us are guilty of leaving our holiday shopping to the last minute. No judgment here! We all do it. This festive season, why not give a gift that keeps giving?

Skincare is one of the most functional gifts that you can give to anyone on your list – whether it’s your sister, partner, or best friend. One of our top recommendations for holiday gifts is the Aqua Clean Cleansing Gel by Germaine de Capuccini.

If the expensive brunette look has taught us anything, it’s that blondes aren’t the only ones having fun. You can book in with one of our colorists to give the trend a try and create an authentic lived-in brunette look.


Meet Root Blurring – The Latest Natural-Looking Root Trend

Your roots will always grow out. It’s a reality of having highlights or colored hair. You don’t have to dread your roots growing out – thanks to one of the biggest fall hair trends. ‘Root blurring’ – also known as ‘root smudging’ – is a technique that adds a natural look to dyed hair that has roots of more than 3 inches.

Say bye-bye to dark grown-out roots and say hello to the perfect transitional hairstyle that will take you effortlessly through to fall and winter. Root blurring – and its similar techniques – elevates your roots with a clever color placement that creates a seamless finish.

The beauty of root blurring is that it can help you get the most out of your color and add time between each dye appointment. We’re sharing everything that you need to know about root blurring and why it’s a fall trend that you want to consider for your dyed hair.

 

What is root blurring?

Root blurring is designed to save your highlights – and your wallet – by lengthening your time between color treatments. We’ve all dealt with the pain of highlights growing out and dark or grey roots taking shape. You can rejuvenate your months-old highlights or hair color with the help of this innovative treatment.

Root blurring is a technique that focuses on creating a high contrast in your roots. It works by using darker tones than your roots to create a natural-looking contrast. The blurring effect kicks in as it adds darker tones to your roots while keeping the lighter tones towards the ends of your hair.

A similar technique is called root smudge. It works in the opposite direction, using lighter colors instead of darker shades for your roots. It produces a more balanced contrast across your roots and the ends of your hair. If you’re looking for the most natural finish, try this style of root blurring.

Whether it's grey hairs or your roots growing out, this innovative technique is perfect for those wanting a low-maintenance hairstyle that updates their look for fall and winter. This technique helps to blend away grey hairs and root re-growth, whatever your natural hair color is.

 

Who can benefit from root blurring?

Root blurring is the perfect treatment for you if you’re looking to get the most out of your highlights or hair dye. The treatment does exactly what it says on the tin. It blurs your roots with a lighter or darker color that helps to diminish the harshness of your roots and create a more natural look.

This technique effectively creates a shadow in your hair that distracts the eye away from over-grown roots. If you want to keep your hair in tip-top shape without investing in a whole new head of foils or dye, root blurring is a friendlier option for your hair and wallet. Incorporating root blurring into your hair maintenance can help you go as long as three months between dye treatments to keep your hair healthy and to get the most out of your dye.

During the summer, most of us choose to lighten our hair for a beach-ready look. Once fall hits, you want to give your hair a slightly darker or warmer appearance to fit the season and the colder weather. This coloring technique is becoming a favorite amongst stylists and clients alike, creating a subtle and natural look that is effortlessly understated.

Transitioning your hair through to fall and winter

Root blurring can also be the perfect solution if you want to seamlessly transition your hair through the seasons without doing an all-over hair change. It’s one of the biggest hair trends for fall and the perfect option for anyone who doesn’t want to commit to an entirely new look.

What we love about root blurring is that it is subtle and sophisticated. It’s all about creating an illusion with your hair that helps expand the lifespan of your highlights without worrying about a dark grow-out.

All the fall 2021 hair trends are about adding warmth to your hair. Traditionally, fall hair trends have focused on going for darker colors. These new trends are season-less and instead focus on creating transitional hairstyles that take you seamlessly from one season to the next.

 

Other treatments similar to root blurring

There are other treatments and techniques that you can use for a similar effect on your roots. Each of these treatments works similarly to root blurring and changes up the appearance of your roots for a softer look.

A root tap is designed for those with blonde hair and who want to keep their hair as bright and blonde as possible. This technique is ideal to use a few weeks after dying your hair when your roots start to develop. A root tap softens the foil lines at the end of your roots and encourages a softer grow out.

Another similar treatment – often considered the same as root blurring – is root smudging. The difference arises in so far as root smudging is all about added brightness without giving you an artificial look to your roots. With this technique, the added color will be a tone lighter than your natural shade.

A third technique that you can try is called ‘root melt’. It is ideal for brunettes or blondes looking for darker contrast. It’s another fall trend that is perfect for transitioning your color from the warmer to colder months.

The difference between this method and the others is that it works with shades two or more hues deeper than your natural root shade. You can choose the root blurring method that works best for your desired look, whether you want to brighten your blonde or add a warmer undertone.

If you’re looking to update your highlights or color for fall, the root blurring trend is our number one recommendation. You can give your hair the TLC it needs at 212 Salon and Day Spa by booking in for a root blurring treatment with one of our talented stylists.