Updo Season!

It’s that time of year again – winter formal. Looking your very best is what it’s all about! I must warn you though, please be sure to make an appointment sooner rather than later. I can’t tell you how many young ladies and gents call the day of formal needing their hair done. While we do our very best to try and accommodate, sometimes, we just don’t have an appointment available. So, first things first, don’t wait.

Next, be sure, ladies, to do your homework. And no I don’t mean you Trig homework, I am talking about looking online for examples to bring to your appointmet. While we are the very best at understanding what people are looking for, sometimes its best for you to give us a grander idea for what you are exactly looking for. After all, you can’t do a do-over for your formal. And we want nothing more than for you to be your happiest on your big day. So search around online, and find what you are looking for, and bring in the photo to see how our talented stylists can improve upon your ideas and make heads turn!

And don’t forget about the nails! This goes for you guys too! Make sure to get a manicure before your formal. No girl or boy loves holding hands with those that have dry cracked hands. Just by getting a simple manicure you will take this item off the list. And ladies, don’t forget this is a great option for adding a little zing to your already fabulous ensemble.

Below I have added a few options for you this year. Please feel free to print out these photos and bring them to your appointment. We are waiting to hear from you and can’t wait to be apart of your special day of Winter Formal!

Hot New Hair Trends for 2012

While some of you have the option to run out the door with wet hair and have dazzling locks by mid morning, kudos to you. Unfortunately, most of us have to spend a little more time in front of the mirror. On the upside, 2012 is adding a little help for us who want a more easy-going look. Check out the latest styles…

 

Glistening

The “Glistening” effect is back! Wet, barely-wrung hair has a youthful innocence that’s also glamorous when paired with bold eyes or lips. To maintain this look, saturate strands with argan oil to arrive at a glossy finish all over or just at the roots.

The Pony

The ponytail is back too. But did it ever fall out of favor? The versatile horsetail can be worn low and flat, tucked under and sectioned off, or super slicked and damp.

 

The Urban Wave

The beachy wave has given way to the urban bend—a loose, louche curve in the hair that’s effortlessly cool and made to look effortless. The street-ready style only requires a rough blow dry, subtle curl with the iron, and raking through with the hands to create the right amount of undone-ness.

 

Embellished Updos

Imaginative, teased chignons secured with cage barrettes, hair pins and errant strands look chic for any social affair. Feathers can make a striking statement with an additive color or pearl-adorned knots can steal the spotlight!

 

Bigger Blowouts

It’s a return to elegance that doesn’t require much in the way of high-tech tools either. Simply apply a generous amount of mousse, set hair in pin curls, then release and tousle

Sophisticated Braids and Twists

Braids got a graceful makeover for spring. Create pretty plaits that swoop around the head or create a look that cascaded down the full length of the back. Simplicity is the idea here. The idea is to create a look that require little attention.  

Real Control – Grasping Your Out-of-Control Hair

I don’t know about you but I have been having the hardest time keeping moisture in my hair. I know that a lot of it is weather related and now that we are having this heat wave – my hair is just so darn dry! As I always keep a back-up of products under the sink I started searching for my options. And yes! I found it – my complete line of Real Control  from Redken.

Real Control by Redken is designed to nourish dry, dense, sensitized hair. Now formulated with Redken’s exclusive Interlock Protein Network, Real Control shampoo gently cleanses and provides even more moisture.

After washing my hair twice, I followed with using the Real Control Conditioner. This conditioner is one of our favs as it intensely moisturizes, helps repairs dense hair, and helps to detangle your hair!

Now, I understand how most of you really shutter at the thought of buying professional aid products, and trust me I understand. But in the long run your hair will turn out for the better. So when your stylists refer you to some styling aids, pay attention. Most products use very little for one application, and I guarantee that most of these will also last for months before having to purchase more.

My favorite styling aid in this line is the Thermal Resist.  This lightweight leave-in spray instantly detangles, repairs and conditions heat-damaged hair. The spray also helps defend hair against additional heat damage – leaving hair looking and feeling strong, healthy and revived

And if you still want the most out of this line – may I suggest trying the Real Control Overnight Treat. This night treatment renews and repairs as you catch up on those much needed Zzzzz.  The best part is that is absorbs instantly so the product will not transfer to your pillows or sheets. Most awake from their beauty rest to resorted, shiny hair.

 

 

DIY Beauty Recipes

Clarifying Mask

If you have been noticing that you skin is running on the oily side this home remedy is perfect for all oily skin types.

Ingredients:

•2 tbsp. bentonite clay

•1 tbsp. apple cider vinegar

•1 tsp. jojoba oil

Directions:

1.Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend for 10 seconds.

2.Apply to the face with a brush or cotton square.

3.Leave on for 20 minutes. Alternatively, use it to spot-treat blemishes overnight.

4.To remove, simply wipe off using a cotton square and tepid water.

 

Feeling a little bit on the dull side lately? Want to add a little winter glow to your skin? Try this simple Citrus Glow Body Scrub

Ingredients:

•1 small lime

•1 cup granulated sugar

•2 tbsp. honey

•1/8 cup sweet almond oil

•1/8 cup jojoba oil

•7-10 drops essential oil of lemon grass

•3-6 drops essential oil of sweet orange

Directions:

1. Cut the lime in half and squeeze the juice from both halves into a bowl. Set aside the halves. Add the sugar and honey to the bowl.

2. Saturate the mixture with the sweet almond and jojoba oils. Blend the mixture with a small spoon or spatula until smooth, adding a little more of the oils if needed. Add lemon grass oil and sweet orange oil and mix well.

3. Use a small grater to zest the peel of the lime halves over the mixture and stir. Store in a clean plastic, glass, or tin container.

 

And lets not forget that spring is right around the corner – and you know what that means – bathing suit shopping is coming too.

Firming Coffee Body Scrub

Ingredients:

•1 1/2 cups cane sugar

•1/4 cup ground coffee beans

•1/4 cup shredded coconut

•3/4 cup macadamia nut oil or olive oil

•1 tsp. honey

•3-5 drops essential oil of choice

Directions:

1.Mix sugar, ground coffee beans, coconut, and oil in a bowl until fully combined. Add honey followed by the essential oil.

2.Transfer the mixture to a plastic container with a lid. (The scrub will keep for 1 to 2 weeks sealed at room temperature.)

3.Rub a generous scoop of the scrub over your arms, legs, stomach, chest, and bottom, scrubbing medium to hard depending on your sensitivity. (Skin should be moist when applying the scrub.)

4.Rinse off in the shower under warm to hot water, ensuring the sugar crystals disintegrate completely. Pat dry to allow the oils to soak into your soft, glowing skin.

Quick and Easy Holiday Hair

Well hello all you hair and skin fans! As the holidays are right around the corner, it is time for a quick lesson in holiday hair. As the clock ticks down, some of you may be wondering what or when you will have time to beautify yourself. But never fear! There are some quick ideas that will make all of your friends and family look at you and wonder how you accomplish it all!

The Next Day Do

My favorite! I suggest this simple do for any woman on-the-go to grandmother’s house you go. Be sure to thoroughly cleanse your hair on Christmas Eve. I even make sure to repeat my wash for this day. First cleanse your hair as you normally would, then add to the Lather Effect by repeating your shampoo step. Have any of you ever noticed that when you do repeat your wash that there are more suds? This is the Lather Effect. Your clean hair is being cleansed once more and you achieve a total all around cleanse. Dry as normal and off you go. For the next day, Christmas, all you need to do is re-blow dry your style and your hair will look even more amazing on Christmas! This way while all the kids are playing with their new toys you can sit back and enjoy these timeless memories without stressing about your do!

The Simple Curl

Just an additive to the first step. Instead of re-blow drying your locks, try reaching for your curling iron. Take your hair into sections, starting at the nap of your neck, then curl. Repeat until your entire head is full of luminous looking curls! You will make all your guest’s envious!

Add a Little Powder

I know that some of you may be asking, “But what if my hair is too oily the following day?” Don’t worry there are two simple remedies that can cure this… baby powder or dry shampoo. While most of you probably have baby powder in your household cupboards, dry shampoo tends to work a little bit more. Just apply either your baby powder or dry shampoo to your hands and evenly disburse between your ends and scalp.

Call the Professionals!

But wait! If you are really not looking forward to worrying about your hair, we are open on Christmas Eve until 1 p.m. Appointments are still available but I am sure that they won’t be for long so be sure to call today to book your appointment!

From the staff at Tranquility Salon and Spa we wish you and your family a VERY happy holiday season.

Until next time…

Holiday Nails

With the holiday party season in full swing you may be wondering what to do to add some zest to any look. It’s really quite simple… Get a manicure and pedicure!

Manicures

Take a simple moment and look down at your hands… Are you noticing that your hands are cracked, dry, or brittle? This is quite common for thousands this time of year. The cold weather breaks down the dermal layer that protects your skin. Making this even worse are hot showers. During this cold time of year, you may think that taking a long hot shower will help. While it may make you feel all warm and snuggly, it is doing a number on your skin. By getting a routine manicure your skin can achieve complete rejuvenation. During a manicure you will have your dry cuticles removed, your hands and lower arms exfoliated ridding dead skin, and will enjoy a thorough hand massage that will add that much needed moisture to your hands.

Pedicure

Yes, even your toes need some love too! I will admit, I tend to think that with my feet constantly covered in the winter I don’t need to do anything, but I have to remind myself that my feet are shedding dry skin as well. Plus, when your feet feel great – you feel great! During your pedicure cuticles will be trimmed, exfoliation will take place, calluses will be removed, and oh yes, the foot massage! So amazing – especially after a long day of holiday shopping!

Winter Colors

This is the most wonderful time of year for nail colors! All the reds, cranberrys, golds! Oh me oh my!!! For your office party I suggest sticking with the basics… Deep reds will let anybody know that you are a confident business woman! A force to be reckoned with!  If you have a hot cocktail party to attend… Jazz up your fun look with gold glitter or or my fav OPIs Lincoln Park After Dark. This color is a mix between a deep purple and back and I can’t get enough of it!

And remember, have fun and be safe this holiday season… Until next time!

* And for those avid blog readers…  Tranquility Salon and Spa will be offering 25% OFF all retail and accessories this weekend only, Satutrday, December 10th! Open from 7:30 am to 6 pm!

Winter Hairstyle Trends

Ahhhh… you have survived Thanksgiving! All the turkey, all the family and, oh yes, holiday shopping is in full swing. While you may have over-indulged just a bit during Turkey Day, its okay, your hard days at the gym will help. But what does any fashionista do when the sun sets and the wild moon rises? Party, party, and party some more! Below you can find a few helpful hair tips that will suit any occasion – holiday office party, cocktails with the ladies, New Years Eve. The options will be endless…

Loose Curls

Simple to achieve, loose curls can turn any after-work do into a wild sensation. The tools you will need can easily be found at any hair supply store if you don’t already have it – oh and you can also purchase them at Tranquility Salon and Spa! You will need a curling iron. Depending on your hair – and the desire of curls wanted you can use anywhere from a half-inch barrel to 1-1/2 inch barrel. Don’t forget the smoothing serum either! Next, you will need to section off your hair. Start with a small section at the nape of your neck. And here we go! Begin by taking the curling iron and turn the barrel away from your scalp. Make sure to not make your curls too tight. I tend to keep the curling iron on the piece of hair for only four seconds. Continue with the rest of your hair. And wahla! Beautiful locks. I like to put a small pea-size amount of Redken Smooth Down serum and run it through the ends of my hair. Just enough to add a little glow!

Romantic Updos

How we love our updos! What better way to make a statement than wowing holiday party guests with a stunning do! If handy with your hair I say go for it! But, if you tend to have some issues figuring out where all of those bobby pins go – please call a professional! Last thing that you want ten minutes before you leave is a do that is too teased and filled with hairspray. The professionals at Tranquility Salon and Spa have photos to assist with what you are looking for. My suggestion – do your homework. Research online and bring in the photo with you to your appointment.

Tight Ponytail

The look of the season! Nothing is classier than a woman with long hair and a sleek ponytail. VERY easy to obtain and all that you need is a flat iron, rubber band, and some styling aids. First, section your hair and flat iron from root to tip. Continue with adding some smoothing serum to your hair.  Once your hair is as sleek as possible, begin to take your flat brush and comb out all your hair into a pony tail. You will want your pony to be in the middle of the back of your head. Ready, take your band and tightly wrap your hair.  What I suggest is taking a small piece directly under your pony and wrap your own hair around the band and use a bobby pin to secure you hair-made band. Bam! You are ready for cocktails with the ladies!

Enjoy yourself ladies and remember to be safe and have a happy holiday party season. Until next time…

We are Thankful for You – Happy Black Friday

You are about to indulge in all the Thanksgiving goodness! Warm turkey in your mouth, sweet potatoes fulfilling your sweet tooth. As you sit around with family and loved ones, it is important to think about what you are thankful for this holiday season. And while our salon doors may be closed, the staff at Tranquility Salon and Spa are thankful for you this holiday season.  And so, after over-indulging on Thursday you can be rest assured that our doors will be open for Black Friday!

$100 Gift Certificates for ONLY $75!

Yes, this is our first way of saying “Thank You” to our clients. What better way to tell someone how much they mean to you by purchasing a gift card? Perfect for any over-worked mom, the almighty assistant at the office, the best husband a girl can ask for, and so many more. Tranquility gift cards can be used for our wide-variety of services – Hair, spa services, product, and accessories.

Captivate your senses by giving a massage to those that you love best. Available in an hour or half hour, Tranquility’s signature massage allows those to relax and rejuvenate the senses. Our talented and experienced massage therapists massage the body at your own preference of pressure.  Massages have been proven to improve circulation so your skin gets more oxygen; they also will help un-knot any muscles, and soothe aches and sprains.

As we have discussed, our Aromatherapy Facial is also quite beneficial to any person. Your typical facial consists of four simple procedures: cleansing, steaming, moisturizing and extracting.

Last, but certainly not least, give the gift of beauty! Yes, this is the best gift of all. Update that look that you have been staring at in the mirror for 5 years… add a little zest to your “do” by adding some highlights to warm up your look! The possibilities are endless and walk-ins are available daily!

25% OFF All Accessories and Product

That is correct! We are so thankful for you that we are offering not just one, but TWO Black Friday Specials! By receiving 25% off our products and accessories, you can purchase the HOBO wallet that you have been eyeing for months! And just in time – we have added new styles and colors to add to your winter wardrobe. Also, you need to come in and check out our newest arrivals in accessories! What perfect gifts! We have just added beaded bracelets, new bangles, hot new hair bands, and exquisite new scarves.

And oh the product! You can purchase the new Redken Argan Oil-6, Pureology shampoos, conditioners, and styling aids, Redken products that will make your hair sizzle. And don’t forget about our complete line of Dermalogica products – there really is no other assortment of great buys like those at Tranquility Salon and Spa!

So be sure to come in, enjoy the sights and sounds, and get shopping because the holiday season will be here before you know it! Thank you all for all of your referrals and continued business. Happy Thanks giving from the girls at Tranquility Salon and Spa! Until next time…

Argan-6 Oil – One Luxurious Oil – 6 AMAZING Uses

As we have mentioned time and time again, the change of seasons can do a number on not just our skin – but our hair as well. Thankfully the amazing talents at Redken have developed a new product that is enriched with all the nutrients to help rid dry, brittle hair. All Soft’s Argan-6 Oil is here to help turn your frazzled mane into a glamorous sensation!

So how does this stuff work anyway? Quite simply really. Many don’t know but dry hair is mainly caused by the depletion of the hydrolipidic film. Huh? Simply put – this film is the barrier around the hair cuticle that protects against all ailments – external pollutants. You may also be noticing that your hair no longer lays flat. That is due to the hair becoming more brittle and this is actually leaving the keratin protein vulnerable. This is where Argan-6 Oil comes to the rescue. Argan-6 Oil actually penetrates the cortex to replenish lipids within the hair follicle – thus achieving intense softness.

The Power of 6

1.  Protect: Pre-Blow-Dry Shield

Want to protect your hair even more? Add a small amount, pea-size to wet hair before blow-dying. Then work through with combing the hair. Results=amazing!

2. Illuminate: Styling Shine Booster

Tame those fly-aways and love the new-found shine! Yes, Argan-6 Oil can be used in conjunction with Satinwear 02 Ultimate Blow Dry Lotion for an even greater shine. Apply before blow-out.

3. Soften: Treatment Booster

Noticing that your hair needs a deep oil treatment? Apply to towel-dried hair with All Soft Heavy Cream Rinse-Out Mask, leave on for 5 minutes, rinse and wuah-la!

4: Moisture: Pre-Shampoo Treatment

After diving hair into equal sections add 2-3 drops to dry scalp and hair. Be sure to massage the scalp and keep the oil on for no more than 10 minutes. Comb your hair and be sure to rinse with All Soft Shampoo and Conditioner.

5: Smooth: Post Blow-Dry Perfector

Rid your new do of fly-aways! Apply a small amount to the ends of your hair post blow-out! You will be a believer!

6. Recondition: Overnight Treatment

Want to leave-in treatment that doesn’t transfer onto your sheets or pillow? Argan-6 is your answer! Yes, apply a few drops to your hair before getting your beauty rest and you will be amazed how the formula acts overnight. Wash out in the morning!

And there you have it! What are you waiting for? Get to Tranquility Salon and Spa today and purchase your favorite new product! I assure you that you will be pleased. Until next time…

Srub-A-Dub! Thanks for the Fall Glow!

Yes ladies (and gentlemen!) it’s that time of year when your face begins to feel a little filmy and maybe even somewhat grimy! While some may choose to waist time with over-the-counter creams and scrubs, why not use this time wisely to treat yourself and cure your fall-washed skin. Yes – it’s time for your fall facial. Your typical facial consists of four simple procedures: cleansing, steaming, moisturizing and extracting. So, lets begin.

Steaming

Ahh… my most favorite and relaxing part of any facial! While you lay there and try to calm your mind of the day-to-day worries, the steam awakens the skin to start bringing out the toxins that your dermal layer may be holding onto under the surface. The steam opens up the pores so that your skin can cleanse as thoroughly as possible. 

Cleansing

Although you may have an in-detail routine with the way in which you cleanse your face, you may be leaving behind impurities that are aiding grim to grow on your face. Just think about all of the pollutants that your face encounters: sneezing, rubbing, cell phones, etc. Having a facial will help you get an even deeper cleanse than what you are used to obtaining daily.

Extracting

Yes, this must be done to fully cleanse the face of impurities. Most people are nervous of the pain level of extracting, but I assure you that this process is quite painless. Depending on the extent of white and black heads, the esthetician will perform extractions to rid your skin of what it may be holding onto.

Moisturizing

Crucial to any facial, moisturizing helps to rejuvenate the skin. During the fall months, humidity levels lower and can create dryness to any part of your body. You may be noticing that your skin always seems dryer  during the month of November. Just like putting extra lotion on your body, your face needs deep moisturizing to help balance out the skin.

So what are your waiting for? Appointments are available today with a well trained esthetician who can assist you with all of your facial needs! Until next time…