Category: Blog

Given the recent news of Johnson & Johnson recalling several sunscreens after they were found to contain small amounts of benzene, a known carcinogen, it’s understandable to feel a bit uneasy slathering yourself in sunscreen this summer. However, skincare professionals
advise you to continue using your sunscreen daily, as the benefits far outweigh the low-level risks. Applying SPF is the most effective method for reducing your risk of skin cancer. Over 3 million new cases of skin cancer are diagnosed each year. 90% of those cancers will be the result of exposure to UV radiation from the sun and from tanning beds. UV exposure is not only the main cause of skin cancer, but it is also the #1 cause of aging for all skin types and colors. Even if you don’t burn in the sun, you should still apply sunscreen daily to protect your skin from the damaging effects of the sun. It is important to look for a broad-band sunscreen that offers protection against both UVA and
UVB rays from the sun. This should be a minimum of SPF 30. There are two types – mineral and chemical sunscreen. Mineral sunscreens sit on top of the skin to act as a physical barrier to UV rays, which makes them effective immediately. They offer full protection from both UVA and UVB rays, while also being a great option for anyone with sensitive or acneic skin, as they do not clog pores.
However, they can sometimes leave a white cast on the skin. Chemical sunscreens are absorbed by your skin and sit in the deeper layers. They absorb UV rays and turn them into non-damaging wavelengths or heat. These are ideal for everyday use as they apply easily and invisibly, but should be done so 20-minutes prior to sun exposure. Since UV rays must be absorbed to reach these chemicals, chemical sunscreens may not protect against all UVA rays. They are safe for most skin types but may exacerbate certain skin conditions such as acne, rosacea, and hyperpigmentation. Whichever sunscreen you use, it is important to remember to apply every 90-120 minutes and
immediately after swimming or any activity that causes heavy perspiration. UVA comes through clouds & windows and is even stronger through glass, so don’t forget your sunscreen on any road trips you’re taking this summer. Stay protected and have fun!

By: Leah Hardin, Licensed Master Esthetician

So you’ve decided you want to spice up your hair color? While fashion colors can be magical and amazing, do you know all that comes with that commitment? Here’s what you should know before taking the plunge into fashion colors! First off, Virgin hair cannot hold color nor is it likely to be light enough to apply the color and get your expected finished product. If your hair is not blonde then you must lighten it as much as possible, a white canvas is the best canvas to apply fashion colors to and this can take multiple processes. When getting
hair lightened, this can be very damaging, so be sure to take care of your hair with products suggested by your stylist in between services. Vice versa hair that is too damaged cant hold onto color because the cuticle is too open, it is key to focus on your hair’s integrity. The steps included in getting your dream color include; (if necessary) removal of the previous color, lightening (at least once), and then application
of the color. This requires washing and blow-drying the hair in between each process. Fashion color can be very time-consuming, thus causing the cost to go up as well. Before committing to getting fashion colors, we suggest you discuss your budget and expectations with your stylist beforehand. Fashion color is very high maintenance and fades fairly quickly, Vivid colors are semi-permanent and fade with time. Bright colors with proper care can last from 4-8 weeks and pastel colors, because they are sheer and light, last 1-2 weeks. Here are some tips to get the most out of your fashion color; Don’t wash your hair as often (dry shampoo is your best friend), wash your hair with room temperature to cold water (depending on what you can handle) because warm water causes steam which opens up the cuticle and
allows the color to escape the hair shaft, invest in a color depositing conditioner to add more time to your color, this will condition while adding a touch of pigment to freshen up the color, also keep an eye out for the amount of alcohol used in your hair products because this can speed up color fading and lastly protect your hair from the suns harmful UV rays, they will fade out your color. You can shield your hair from the sun with protective hair products like hair and scalp spray with SPF in it or even just wearing a hat can help. Needless to say there’s definitely a lot of upkeep necessary to sport flawless fashion colors, but the end product is so worth it if you’re looking to add some flare to your hair.

By Jadyn Rodocker