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Everything You Need To Know About NBR Hair Extensions

March 4, 2024 in Hair Tips and Tricks

For the past decade I have been absolutely obsessed with hair extensions. My hair is naturally thin, and does not seem to want to grow much further than past my shoulders. I have tried every type of hair extension including i-tips, tape ins, clip ins and finally NBR hand-tied wefts. I have to say that out of all of these methods, NBR hand-tied wefts absolutely takes the cake. They are seamless in appearance, cause the least amount of damage, and are the most versatile style wise. Are you considering NBR Hair Extensions to add thickness and volume to your hair? Here’s everything you need to know about Natural Beaded Rows (NBR) extensions based on my personal experience:

1. What Are NBR Hair Extensions?

NBR extensions involve placing rows of hair extension wefts using a bead and string technique, providing both length and thickness to your natural hair.

2. Installation Process:

Performed by skilled professionals, the installation typically takes around two to three hours, with minimal discomfort during the process.

3. Comfort and Maintenance:

NBR extensions are comfortable to wear and allow you to style your hair in various ways, including wearing it up. Initially, you might feel some tightness, but it quickly fades, and sleeping becomes normal after a few adjustments.

4. Damage Control:

Considered one of the least damaging extension methods, NBR extensions have fewer contact points with your natural hair, reducing the risk of damage. However, regular maintenance and care are essential to minimize any potential damage to your natural hair.

5. Longevity:

With proper care and maintenance, NBR extensions can last between six to eight months. Regular tightening every 6-8 weeks helps maintain the extensions’ integrity and ensures they blend seamlessly with your natural hair.

6. Cost:

NBR extensions are an investment, with the initial appointment being the most expensive due to the purchase of hair and styling fees. However, subsequent appointments primarily require move-ups rather than the full installation process. Good quality human hair is crucial, and should be purchased through a professional and reputable source. At Blush Beauty Bar, we order Babe Hair Extensions. Depending on the length and amount of hair you will need, the cost of hair can vary from $1000-$2000 with the initial installation price of $325-$475.

7. Washing and Drying:

Washing and drying NBR extensions add minimal time to your routine. It does take time to get used to shampooing around the wefts, but is no big deal at all once you get the hang of it! It’s essential to ensure thorough washing, especially around the roots, and to dry the roots of the wefts completely to prevent any issues. Dry Shampoo will become your best friend, as it limits the amount of times per week you will need to fully wash and dry your hair. One of our favorite Dry Shampoos is Lifestyling Dry Shampoo by Milk Shake!

8. Upkeep:

Regular maintenance involves tightening or “moving up” the extensions every 6-8 weeks. Additionally, using high-quality products and applying oil to the extensions helps maintain their health and prolong their lifespan. One of our favorite hair oils to keep both your natural hair and extension hair healthy is Semi Di Lino Smoothing oil by Alfaparf Milano.

9. Styling:

You can style NBR extensions just like your natural hair, including using heat tools. However, it’s crucial to use heat protectant products and avoid excessive heat to prevent damage.

In conclusion, NBR Hair Extensions offer a versatile solution for adding volume and thickness to your hair, with proper care and maintenance ensuring long-lasting results. If you’re considering extensions for your wedding or any other occasion, NBR extensions could be the perfect choice for you! Our stylist AnneMarie at Blush Beauty Bar specializes in NBR Extensions. Book your consultation today!

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Mastering the Art of Foundation Selection: A Comprehensive Guide

February 27, 2024 in Makeup Tips and Tricks

Choosing the perfect foundation can be a daunting task, but armed with the right knowledge, you can achieve a flawless complexion effortlessly. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate through the maze of options and find your holy grail foundation:

1. Skin Tone:

– Cool: Veins appear blue, often fair skin with possible freckles.

– Warm: Veins appear green, olive tones, tans well.

– Neutral: Veins appear purple, a balance between cool and warm tones.

2. Skin Type:

– Dry: Opt for foundations with a luminous finish or tinted moisturizers for added hydration.

– Oily: Look for long-wear, oil-free formulas to control shine and prevent makeup from slipping.

– Combination: Choose foundations based on personal preference, considering both oily and dry areas.

3. Coverage/Finish:

– Natural Finish: Lightweight, breathable coverage suitable for all skin types.

– Dewy Finish: Provides a radiant glow, best for dry or mature skin but may not suit oily or acne-prone skin.

– Semi-Matte Finish: Offers a balance between matte and dewy, ideal for long-lasting wear.

– Matte Finish: Provides full coverage with a shine-free, flawless look, perfect for oily or acne-prone skin.

– Satin Finish:Versatile finish that suits all skin types, providing a subtle radiance without feeling heavy.

Remember to consider your preferences, skin tone, and type when selecting a foundation. And always prioritize skincare to ensure a flawless base. With these tips in mind, you’re ready to conquer the world with your perfect foundation!

Balayage or Highlights – Which Hair Lightening Technique is Best for You?

February 12, 2024 in Hair Trends 2024

Balayage and Highlights are two popular hair lightening techniques, each with its own unique application, maintenance, time commitment, and cost.

Balayage

– Application: Involves hand painting bleach onto the hair, typically on the top layer, for a blended and seamless look. While traditionally done without foils, variations like foilayage incorporate foils for similar effects.

– Maintenance: Due to its natural appearance and gradual root growth, Balayage is low maintenance, with some clients going up to 6 months between appointments.

– Time: The timing varies based on hair length, density, and desired brightness, typically taking 2.5 to 4 hours. It often involves toning, but not always!

– Cost: Ranges from $150 to $300 depending on factors like location, stylist experience, and technique. At Blush Beauty Bar, our Balayage cost ranges from $180-$225 without including a cut or toner!

Full Highlight

– Application: Bleach is applied to sections of the hair and enclosed in foils for maximum lift. It aims for an all-over blonde look, with trends favoring subtle, blended highlights.

– Maintenance: Similar to Balayage, maintenance depends on root growth, with a toner often applied post-highlighting for warmth or coolness. In a Highlight service, the lightener is typically brought up as close to the scalp as possible, which does require more maintenance.

– Time: Timing is comparable to Balayage, ranging from 2.5 to 4 hours depending on hair specifics and desired outcome.

– Cost: Typically falls between $100 and $250, influenced by factors like salon location, stylist expertise, and hair length. At,Blush Beauty Bar our Balayage cost ranges from $180-$225 without including a cut or toner!

Partial Highlight

Partial highlights are a great option for those looking to add dimension to their hair without committing to a full highlight. This technique focuses on applying bleach to specific sections of the hair, usually around the face and crown, to create a natural, sun-kissed look.

–Application: Similar to full highlights, bleach is applied to selected sections of the hair and then enclosed in foil for maximum lift. The goal is to create contrast and brightness in certain areas while leaving other parts of the hair untouched for depth and dimension.

–Time: Since partial highlights only target specific sections of the hair, the timing is typically shorter than full highlights or balayage. Depending on the desired outcome and hair type, partial highlights can take anywhere from 1.5 to 3 hours.

–Cost: Partial highlights generally cost less than full highlights or balayage since they require less product and time. Prices can vary depending on salon location, stylist expertise, and hair length, but typically range from $80 to $180. At Blush Beauty Bar, our partial highlights range from $90 to $130, excluding additional services like a cut or toner.

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The Bangs Revival: Finding Your Perfect Style in 2024

February 7, 2024 in Hair Trends 2024

Bangs, or fringe as they’re sometimes called, have a rich history dating back to ancient Egypt. While their popularity has ebbed and flowed over the years, 2024 marks a major comeback for this timeless hairstyle. With various styles to choose from, the ultimate question remains: Which style of bangs is right for you? Let’s explore three popular options making waves in 2024.

1. Curtain Bangs:

Curtain bangs offer a versatile and effortless look, characterized by shorter lengths in the middle that gradually blend into longer strands on the sides. This style complements most face shapes, particularly those with larger foreheads. With its low-maintenance nature, curtain bangs are perfect for those seeking a chic yet practical hairstyle. While they grow out seamlessly and require fewer trims, adding volume and bounce may require a quick styling routine each morning.

2. Baby Bangs:

Making a bold statement in 2024, baby bangs are short, reaching only 1-2 inches down the forehead from the hairline. This edgy style is not for the faint of heart and is best suited for individuals with oval faces, as its blunt and square shape may intensify natural angles in the face. However, be prepared for regular upkeep and consistent trims to maintain the sharpness of this trendy look.

3. Side Swept Bangs:

Once a staple of the early 2000s, side swept bangs have returned with a vengeance. Flattering for most face shapes, they particularly enhance round faces by creating the illusion of a longer facial structure. Whether short and blunt or long and wispy, side swept bangs offer versatility and elegance. They’re an excellent choice for those with thinner hair, as they can add fullness and texture to any hairstyle.

In Conclusion…

In the midst of the bangs revival of 2024, finding the perfect style is essential to showcasing your individuality and enhancing your overall look. Whether you opt for the effortless charm of curtain bangs, the boldness of baby bangs, or the timeless elegance of side swept bangs, embracing this classic hairstyle is sure to make a statement. So, which style of bangs is right for you? The choice is yours to make.

Things you didn’t know could be damaging your hair!

February 5, 2024 in Hair Tips and Tricks

-Too much heat

-As the beauty industry has been expanding like crazy on social media platforms, many of us are aware that too much heat can cause damage to your hair. But the real question is why, and how do we prevent this?

-Why?

-Exposure to temperatures over 300°F actually changes the appearance of the main protein in your hair, Keratin. As this protein changes, it leads to weaker hair that is more prone to breakage.

-How to prevent it?

-Of course most of us hair enthusiasts like a nice blowout followed by either a straightener or curling iron however, it is good to give your hair a break from any type of heat every now and again. Whenever possible, try to let your hair air-dry as part of a healthy hair routine.

-Perhaps the most important way to protect your hair from heat damage, is by using products that contain a heat protectant. High quality heat protectants typically contain ingredients that maintain moisture and contain natural hair proteins and oils which protect the outer layer of your hair, preventing damage. At Blush Beauty Bar, our stylists favorite heat protectant is Alfaparf Milano Style Stories Thermal Protector. Not only does it smell amazing, but it is also one of the best thermal protectants I have ever used!

-Wearing your hair in tight hairstyles too often

-The more you are pulling your hair tightly back in a ponytail, braid, or any other style, the more pressure you are putting on your hair. Think about a rope hanging from the ceiling with a bowling ball attached at the bottom constantly putting tension on the rope. Eventually, the rope is going to start to fray. It is the same concept with a strand of hair. Of course, having your hair in a ponytail or braid every now and then will not create hair loss or damage within itself, it is best to avoid these types of styles for days at a time and to give your hair time to flow in its natural state.

-When you do put your hair in a ponytail or are using any kind of hair tie on a regular basis, the type of hair tie you use is important! You want to use something made from a softer material such as polyester, microfiber or silk to further reduce tension and breakage.

-Sleeping

-Of course some of us toss and turn more than others but either way, when we sleep we tend to rub our head (and therefore our hair) against the pillow case.

-Some of the best recommendations for preventing this are using either a silk pillow case or a silk bonnet. The reason there is so much mention of silk is because unlike other materials silk will not snag or tangle your hair, while also reducing frizz.

-Shampooing technique

-Overly clean hair DOES NOT mean overly healthy hair. Of course, no one likes to feel like their hair is oily but a certain amount of oil in our hair is a natural part of keeping it healthy. When we shampoo our hair, we want to focus the shampoo on the scalp and roots of the hair and let the rest of the product wash through the ends. This way, we are not stripping our hair of all of the natural oils it needs to remain its healthiest self!

Exploring Salon Styles: Big-Box vs. Boutique – Pros and Cons

February 5, 2024 in Industry FAQs

The beauty industry, valued at a staggering $579.22 Billion globally, remains resilient even in economic downturns. With an abundance of salons saturating the market, individuals now have an extensive array of choices. As a seasoned industry professional and consumer for over a decade, I delve into the comparison between two prevalent salon styles – Big-box and Boutique – highlighting their respective advantages and drawbacks.

One vs. Many

Big-box salons often have specialists in specific areas, allowing clients to interact with multiple stylists during a single appointment. In contrast, Boutique salons provide a more personalized experience with a single stylist handling the entire service. Many boutique salons in Upstate, NY avoid double-booking, ensuring exclusive attention and fostering deeper connections between stylist and client.

The Vibe

The atmosphere in Big-box and Boutique salons varies significantly. Big-box establishments are characterized by a bustling and energetic environment, often with a hierarchical management structure. In contrast, Boutique salons emanate a more laid-back, homely vibe. Having worked in both settings, I’ve found Big-box salons to be high-stress environments with less work/life balance, while Boutique salons, typically smaller and familial, offer a more balanced and camaraderie-driven atmosphere.

What do we offer at Blush?

At Blush Beauty Bar, we aim to provide a unique and personalized experience reminiscent of smaller, soulful destinations. Our salon is crafted to be a haven of care, beauty, and warmth, fostering a sense of home and love. Unlike the overwhelming pace of larger establishments, we prioritize a more relaxed and passionate environment. Our team, akin to a family, ensures a strong work/life balance, making every client feel uplifted and cherished, no matter the challenges they face. Expect a warm greeting, along with a selection of beverages, as you step into Blush Beauty Bar – your sanctuary for peace and positive energy.

Get Ready for Spring with This Glowing Makeup Tutorial

April 9, 2019 in Blush Beauty

When the cold, darkness of Winter starts to become a distant memory, your wardrobe and makeup are the first to Spring up. That means trading your cozy black sweaters and smoky eyes for electric pops of pink, flecks of gold, and glowing skin.

Kickstart your Spring makeup look with this glowing makeup tutorial, featuring some of my favorite products from Inglot Cosmetics.

As you see in the video, before applying any makeup to my face, I prepare my skin with a Rose Gold Refining Mask from Native Nectar followed by the Native Nectar Toning Mist and Earth Vibes Hyaluronic Acid Serum. Hyaluronic acid is naturally occurring in your skin and promotes moisture while lifting, firming, and retexturizing your skin. On top of all that, I add the Inglot Lab Ultimate Day Protection Cream. The Ultimate Day Protection protects against excessive moisture loss and environmental stress with a combination of premium ingredients. Read more about this product here.

Once my skin is prepped, I start with concealer on my eyelids. For this look, I use Inglot’s All-Covered Concealer in #12. This concealer covers dark circles, discolorations, and imperfections under eyes, providing a natural, flawless skin effect.   Available in 8 shades here! Then, I set that with the Inglot HD Sculpting Powder. This is the perfect product to contour and sculpt your face, enhancing only the best features and diverting attention from any imperfections. I use #503 for my skin.

Onto eyeshadow! I begin this look with Inglot’s Freedom System Eyeshadow in Matte #285, applied to the crease. I love this product– the oil-free formula provides an ideal matte finish and intense color. Remember, you are building your eye look, so this color does not need to be extremely visable. Start out soft. I then add Eyeshadow #335, a deeper shade of the same product, to the crease again. When trying this at home, pay attention to blend the two shades together and smooth out where the shadow meets bare skin.

Next, I take the Inglot Aquastic Cream Eyeshadow in #16 and apply it to the lid. This product is a water-based cream eye shadow with a shine. Even a minimal amount provides strong, shimmering coverage. The best part? It’s crease and smudge-proof! View all 9 colors here. After application, lightly blend into first two colors. Using a standard crease brush, I finish with a darker matte color, #299 in the outer corners.

Using the Inglot AMC Eyeliner Gel in #77, I apply a straight line along my lash line– no wing. The creamy and delicate formula of this gel dries to a long-lasting, smudge proof, and crease proof finish. And it’s waterproof! If necessary, clean up any excess shadow or liner with a makeup wipe.

Once my eyes are finished, I apply the Inglot All-Covered Foundation to my full face using a brush. This formula is lightweight and carefully corrects visible imperfections while evening out skin tone. It even lifts, smooths, and moisturizes skin while it covers. I use shade #11 for my fair skin. Then, I grab that same All-Covered Concealer and apply it under my eyes, on my chin, and around my nostrils and dab to blend. Again, I set under my eyes with the HD Sculpting Powder.

Here comes the glow! I grab my AMC Bronzing Powder in #74 and a bronzer brush and apply near my hairline and below my cheekbones. Then, I add Freedom System Face Blush in #29 on the apples of my cheeks and up my cheekbones toward my hairline. Both of these products provide rich, buildable color. I finish off with Inglot Sparkling Dust in 01. This frosted loose powder is highly pigmented and can provide a glow to any part of the body. I use it here on my cheekbones using the Inglot Makeup Fixer for application. The makeup fixer is a handy alcohol and paraben free light mist that will ensure long-lasting makeup. Apply directly on makeup.

I always add to my look by applying eyeshadow under my eyes to really help them pop. (Note the difference at 6:29 in the video!) Then, I round out my glow with the Freedom System Eyeshadow in Matte #35 just below my eyebrows on the brow bone and in the inner corner of my eye. I shape and fill out my brows with the Inglot Brow Shaping Mascara. This is a tiny, convenient brush that will comb the brows and fill them in an instant. Since I prefer to lengthen my eyebrows as well, I add the AMC Brow Liner Gel as well. This waterproof liner comes in a wide color range and offers a color match for every type of beauty.

Throughout the video, I am wearing the Inglot High Gloss Lip Oil to keep my lips moisturized. It is enriched with oils from alpine apple seeds, cherry kernel, apricot kernel, argan, and jojoba and includes shea butter, and vitamin E. I take that off and apply the Inglot Colour Play Lipliner #325 to the outer line of my lips and fill in with the Inglot Sleeks Cream Lip Gloss in #101.

I finish off my eyes with the Inglot Khol Pencil in #05 to brighten along my water line. This is a soft and supple liner that’s made for easy blending and smudging. This pencil quickly sets to a waterproof, smudge-proof, and transfer-proof finish. Since I have lash extensions on my top eyelashes, I don’t add mascara to them, but I do add mascara to my bottom lashes.

The last step to any look is setting spray. I spray directly onto my face with eyes and lips closed about 8-12 inches from myself. And voila! There you have a warm, glowing look perfect for this time of year.

Get this look at home! All of these products are available for purchase through Blush Beauty Bar. Click here to head to our shop.

3 Wearable Spring 2019 Makeup Trends

March 29, 2019 in Uncategorized

There are several trends that will make their appearance this Spring/Summer, many of which combine BOLD elements with the ultra-natural. Fashion Week debuted bright colors along with natural, glowing, “I just came from the facialist” skin, paired with nude, un-glossed lips.

All of these looks prove that bold “Instagram” brows are a thing of the past (thank GOD), and we are moving back to the idea that natural, full brows (and seeing that actual brow hair exists) is the way to go. Since we all know that Fashion Week makeup looks are not always the most wearable thing ever, we decided to show you how you can create some of the Spring 2019 runway looks and confidently show your face in public!

1. Statement Eyeliner