Sun Protection with AVEDA

Sun Protection

There is no doubt that too much sun exposure is bad for your skin. Did you know that the sun can have negative effects on your hair too? At Ashka Salon Spa you can get your sun protection for your hair and skin with AVEDA products.

Sun Protection – Hair

If you are like me, you absolutely love the sun and want to soak up as much of it as possible during the summer. The issue I always seem to have is that by the end of summer, my hair very dry and fragile. Until recently, I never made the connection that it could be from sun exposure!

With extended sun exposure the UV rays from the sun can damage your hair just like it can your skin. It will cause your hair to feel thinner, dry, and brittle. Too much sun can even fade your hair color! Luckily, AVEDA does have a product designed specifically for sun protection. The Sun Care line by AVEDA is a must have for Michigan summers.

Sun Protection
Sun Protection for your hair

Here is a breakdown of everything included in the line!

AVEDA’s Sun Care Protective Hair Veil:

  • Lightweight, waterproof mist.
  • Protects from UV damage.
  • Lasts for up to 16 hours.
  • Great detangler.

AVEDA’s Sun Care After-Sun Hair Masque:

  • Restores the look of sun-exposed hair.
  • Plant oils help to moisturize the hair.
  • Antioxidant blend helps to protect against free radicals.

AVEDA’s Sun Care Hair and Body Cleanser:

  • Color-safe formula.
  • Removes chlorine, salt, and product build up.
  • Corn-derived chelator helps to remove minerals in chlorinated pool water that causes discoloration.

The best part about AVEDA’s Sun Care line is that it is so easy to just throw in my beach bag and know I have everything I need to protect my hair from the sun.

Sun Protection – Skin

It is much more common knowledge that overexposure to the sun can be detrimental to your skin. Beth, our lead esthetician at Ashka Salon Spa, told me today “If you want to stay young and beautiful, you need to start wearing a sunscreen on your face everyday”. Who doesn’t want that? AVEDA recently came out with a new product to protect your skin from the sun. It is the new Daily Light Guard.

Sun Protection
Sun Protection for the Skin

AVEDA’s Daily Light Guard is super light weight. It is perfect to add to your skincare routine. It has 100% mineral-derived sunscreens. This product is dermatologist tested and it great for all skin types because it is non-acnegenic.

As I get older, I realize how important it is to guard yourself from the sun. I am so happy that AVEDA recognizes this as well. I can’t wait to pick up these products from Ashka Salon Spa tomorrow so that I am 100% ready for summer! Hopefully I’ll see you there.

Until Next Time,

Josie 🙂

Bridal Hair with Our Lead Bridal Artist

Bridal Hair

Someone’s wedding day is considered to be one of the biggest days of their lives. Brides everywhere search hard to find someone who can give them the perfect look for it. Some want to feel like a princess. Others want to feel like a slightly elevated version of themselves. And to some, it might be both. Bridal hair and makeup and truly make or break your wedding. It affects all aspects of your day! Finding someone who can give you everything you could dream of and more on your day is super important. I know at Ashka Salon Spa you will find just that.

Bridal Hair and Makeup Prep: What To Do Before the Big Day

Bridal Hair
Bridal Hair By Melissa; Inspiration on left

Prior to your big day, it is important to do a few things to ensure that your hair and makeup goes as smoothly as possible! Follow this checklist:

  1. Get your color done! No one wants to remember those roots.
  2. Wax or thread your eyebrows, just not the day of. The makeup doesn’t adhere to the freshly waxed skin as well.
  3. Do a trial run with your artist. This is good for both you and the artist to know what to expect on the big day.
  4. Do your nails. Everyone will be looking at your ring!
  5. Get a facial about a week before the wedding. You can even set up a facial regiment with our estitcians after being engaged.

Questions and Answers on Bridal Hair and Makeup with Our Lead Bridal Artist

Bridal Hair
Bridal Hair by Melissa

I talked with our Lead Bridal Artist, Melissa, about bridal hair and makeup. She is absolutely wonderful at what she does. I would be lying if I did not say that everyone at the salon, clients and staff, make a point of say how pretty the styling she does is. My personal goal is to be as good as her at upstyles and makeup one day.

How long have you been doing bridal hair and makeup for?

Melissa: I have been doing bridal hair and makeup for about 5 years and I’ve loved every second of it.

What is your favorite thing about bridal hair and makeup?

Melissa: My favorite thing about it is bring out my client’s natural beauty! It amazing to make someone feel fabulous for their special day.

What is the biggest challenge when it comes to working with brides?

Melissa: I guess I would say the biggest challenge would be giving them exactly what they want. It is hard to make sure that they absolutely love it especially when they have high expectations.

Until Next Time,

Josie 🙂

Balancing Work & Play at Ashka Salon Spa

Balancing Work

If you were to talk to my manager, she would tell you that I constantly struggle with balancing work and play. I have been caught multiple times asking if having down time is even worth it. Some people may even consider me a “workaholic”. Coming from someone who just adores her job and wants nothing but to be able to be the best she can be, squeezing in me time can be very difficult. I have found though, those off chances that I do pamper myself, are more than deserved.

Balancing Work
Balancing Work and Play can be harder than it seems.

Balancing Work with Play

How many times have you worked yourself so hard that you dread when your alarm clock goes off in the morning? While I am not saying we can make you love that (annoying) sound every morning, I can promise that we can help make it a little more bearable. I challenge you to end a long work week with a Manicure with Kym, or a Massage with Sarah. Maybe you even just need a trim so you can enjoy your complimentary scalp massage. At Ashka Salon Spa, we are working to give you some “me” time. We want you to put down your phone that can drive you batty during the work hours and just enjoy the peace and quiet with us. Book an appointment with Beth for a facial after a big presentation. Again, I promise you will love it.

 

“The space and quiet that idleness provides is a necessary condition for standing back from life and seeing it whole, for making unexpected connections and waiting for the wild summer lightning strikes of inspiration—it is, paradoxically, necessary to getting any work done.” This was written by Tim Krieder for the New York Times. It is a wonderful quote. It shows how important downtime truly is. You need downtime in order to accomplish anything.

As I said before, I challenge you to set aside time for yourself. Away from your work. Away from your family. Away from any responsibilities. Enjoy your time in the serenity offered at Ashka Salon Spa

Until Next Time,

Josie 🙂

Airbrush Makeup in Canton Michigan

Airbrush Makeup

With so many makeup brands, tutorials, and gurus out there nowadays, it is hard to keep it all straight. I feel like I even get overwhelmed with it all sometimes. Hopefully with this blog I am able to clear up just one of multiple options out there for you; Airbrush Makeup.

Airbrush Makeup
Airbrush Makeup by Mona

Airbrush Makeup Vs Traditional Makeup

At Ashka Salon Spa, we used to offer traditional makeup applications using AVEDA makeup. It was a hard decision but we finally switched over to strictly Airbrush Makeup a few years ago. There were many reasons behind this decision.

Airbrush Makeup looks flawless in photos. When you are using a brush or a sponge, it is very difficult to get every line blended perfectly so that our high tech HD cameras don’t pick up on them. With airbrush, because it is applied as a mist, those lines are automatically blended. This gives your face a natural perfect complexion.

Like I have already mentioned, it is applied in a sheer mist. This allows for your natural coloring to come through the makeup. This not only gives it a more natural look, but it also helps prevent “cake-face”.

The brand we use at Ashka Salon Spa is TEMPTU. It is waterproof. This means that it is also tear, sweat, and any other liquid proof to keep your look perfect throughout your event.

All in all, I truly believe Airbrush Makeup is the way to go for any special occasion you may have. It is just so lightweight and flawless looking. I personally love how it feels on my skin. If I didn’t know I had a full face of makeup on, I wouldn’t have guessed it simply because you feel fresh faced.

 

Airbrush Makeup
Airbrush Makeup by Jessie

Call today to set up your makeup application for your next event! 734-414-9980

Until Next Time,

Josie 🙂

Sticker Extensions at Ashka Salon Spa

Sticker Extensions

Extensions are such a popular trend right now. At Ashka Salon and Spa we offer multiple times and brands of extensions. One of the types that we offer is Sticker Extensions. Sticker Extensions are a great way to create a lasting style that still is not as much of a commitment as some other extension types. Every summer I usually get sticker extensions put in my hair for a temporary pop of color. It’s perfect because I don’t have the commitment of a purple or blue streak in my hair but I also have long lasting results. I wore my purple extensions half of summer and it didn’t fade noticeably. I was able to swim and enjoy the summer sun without worrying about ruining my hair color!

Sticker Extensions – How Do They Work?

Sticker Extensions
Sticker Extensions for a Pop of Color

Sticker Extensions are just like how they sound; stickers! There is two pieces of hair that sandwich a small slice of your own hair and that is how they stay on. Our extension specialists will customize the placement and cut of your extensions so that you can have the look you’ve always wanted. You can use them for an whole head application, to add volume to your sides, or as accent pieces of color.

Sticker Extensions
Sticker Extensions

With all extension services at Ashka Salon Spa, we require a complimentary consultation. During this appointment you will see hair swatches of colors, get an exact price for your custom extensions, and learn exactly how it will work with your desired style. We do require that you put down a nonrefundable deposit of half of the cost for your extension appointment before booking your service. This pays for the cost of the hair as well as to hold your appointment for the day of.

Call today to see Lisa or I for your custom extensions! 734-414-9980

Until Next Time,

Josie 🙂

Welcome Our New Team Member, Rachel!

Team Member

There are many different careers within the Beauty Industry. There are many different paths just within Ashka Salon Spa. If you are thinking that you may want a salon job, there is so many ways to go about it. One route would be to start working the front desk first. While this is a tasking job, it gives you a complete taste of what working in the salon would be like!

Many of you might have noticed a lot of new changes around the salon, including some new faces! We recently welcomed Rachel as a Front Desk Coordinator to our team. She is a wonderful addition as a new team member. Not only do we love her, I know our clients will too! Rachel is super friendly, and an amazing multitasker. I have full confidence that she will thrive at the front desk.

Who is Our New Team Member?

Rachel is so happy with her salon job!
Rachel is so happy with her salon job!

Rachel is a recent graduate from University of Michigan Dearborn with a degree in Psychology. She applied to Eastern Michigan University for graduate school. At EMU she hopes to study Social Work for Families and Children. She currently works two jobs including the front desk at Ashka Salon Spa as well as a group leader at Westland’s Youth Assistance Program. On top of that she also does a weekly paper route! When Rachel isn’t working or studying, she enjoys spending time with her friends and family. She can often be found at the baseball fields in Westland rooting on her dad, boyfriend, and many friends in their softball leagues.

Question and Answer with Our New Team Member on Her Salon Job

salon job
Enjoying Our Salon Job

What do you like most about working at Ashka Salon Spa?

Rachel: I like that everyone is so passionate about what they do. Everyone is happy without effort and it makes a huge difference!

What is the biggest change from your last job?

Rachel: The biggest change from my old job is that I have a lot more responsibility. I play a much bigger role in ensuring the company runs smoothly for service providers and clients.

What has been the biggest challenge you’ve overcome so far at Ashka Salon Spa?

Rachel: The biggest challenge has been adapting to a job that I really did not have an experience with. My multitasking skills have greatly improved since starting at Ashka Salon Spa.

Would you recommend a salon job to someone? Why or why not?

Rachel: I would recommend a salon job to someone because it is an excellent example of what true customer service is. Working at a salon provides the opportunity to master customer service and communication skills among the staff. It is a job that provides you with skills that can be used to enhance future career opportunities.

 

A salon job can be hectic, but it is easily the most rewarding job I have ever worked. Ashka Salon Spa has definitely shaped me into the woman I am today. I believe that it is a great way to learn many life skills, even if your end goal isn’t to work in a salon for the rest of your life. Other salon job are manager, owner, service provider, and front desk assistant.

Like I said, I know that the entire Ashka Salon Spa family, including our clients are going to adore Rachel as much as I do! Be sure to welcome her to our team during your next appointment. Call today so she can help you book it! 734-414-9980

Until Next Time,

Josie 🙂

 

Shellac Manicure in Canton, MI

Shellac Manicure

Since I was assisting for the past year and a half, my hands have really be taking a beating. No matter what I do to them they still seem dry and my cuticles are always stained with hair color. This is the exact reason I needed to see Kym for a Shellac Manicure. Kym is our lead nail technician at Ashka Salon Spa. She is seriously a miracle worker. The benefits of a shellac manicure versus a regular manicure are endless to me. I work with my hands in water all day everyday and regular nail polish will only last a day.

What Do You Get in a Shellac Manicure?

Shellac Manicure
Shellac Manicure by Kym

Kym starts with doing any nail maintenance that you may need first. It is important to completely clear the nail bed of any cuticle and oil. This makes your shellac stay the longest possible. Kym will shape your nails first and then let your cuticle sit with product on them to remove them. After pushing back your  cuticles and nipping them, your nails are wiped with a hot towel, buffed and the oil is removed. Then the fun part begins. I love picking out my nail color. To me, it is a huge part of self expression. Am I feeling bubbly and pink? Or more mysterious and dark? After a base coat, two color coats and a top coat, your nails are completely dry and ready to go. That is one of the best parts about a Shellac Manicure, the minute you are done, your nails are dry. I can’t even paint my nails anymore with regular polish because I am so impatient with the drying process. And since they are dry, you get to enjoy an amazing hand massage by Kym before leaving!

The Power of a Shellac Manicure

Shellac Manicure
Shellac Manicure Results

The power of a manicure is absolutely incredible. I’m pretty sure after every manicure or pedicure I have every gotten, the first words out my mouth have been “Ahhh, I feel human again”. It gives me confidence and feeling of being put together. I feel professional when my nails look professional. A shellac manicure is without a doubt is a can’t miss service for me. Call today to book your appointment with Kym!

Until Next Time,

Josie 🙂

My Experience Entering a Hair Contest

Hair Contest

AVEDA held a hair contest this month called Full Spectrum Fusion. We as colorists had to create a look using a combination of our two permanent haircolor lines. When I saw the flyer in the break room, I knew I wanted to enter. Just starting on the floor, I figured this would be a good way to really look into the color lines and get comfortable with them.

I wasn’t exactly sure what I wanted to do, but I knew I was going to need a model for it. I put out a “hair color model needed” post on social media and immediately heard back from people. One of my friends who went to cosmetology school messaged me. She was interested in trying the oil slick trend. The oil slick trend is meant to replicate what it looks like when there is spilled gas or oil on the cement creating a rainbow effect.

Hair Contest
Oil Spill

Entering a Hair Contest 101 – Never Stop Thinking About it

I spent the next couple of weeks looking into different ways to achieve this technique. There were a few big name stylists who had posted how to videos and I watched as many as I could. I took my time making swatches in the salon so I could see exactly how my formulas would turn out. I made a huge poster board explaining step by step how I was going to achieve my work.

hair contest
My preparation board to enter the hair contest!

When my model came in, I showed her all of my preparation and we were both eager to get started. As I worked through my process, I became more and more eager to see the final outcome. It seemed like everything was going perfect! It took a total of 6 hours to get the results I was looking for and unfortunately my model needed to go so I wasn’t able to get the pictures I wanted.

hair contest
My oil slick colors for the hair contest

 

Entering a Hair Contest – The Photoshoot

hair contest
One of the many images taken for the contest!

hair contest

My model said she would come back in a day for me to style and photograph my work. I was definitely nervous that she would wash it before then just because I knew the colors would be the most vibrant right then. However she didn’t and waited for me to style her hair for her. I learned a lot while we were taking pictures. There is a lot of “behind the scenes” when you look at a beautiful picture in a magazine. We styled her hair with products that I wouldn’t necessarily use if I was just sending her out the door. We also had to be very critical of how the hair was laying. We ended up taking a total of 23 pictures only to submit 1.

Hair Contest
My Oil Slicked Mermaid – My Final Image

In the end, all of my colors turned out exactly how I wanted. There is definitely some things about the process that I would change, but all in all I love how it turned out. You never know how your work will compare to other entries but I know that I did my absolute best. I turned in my photo knowing how much work I put into it, and I was, and still am proud. I will be sure to post another blog once I hear how I did!

Until Next Time,

Josie 🙂

Fashion Colors in Canton, MI

Fashion Colors

Lately fashion colors have been seen everywhere! From the runway to the grocery store, I’m sure you have all seen the fun pink, blue, or purple hair people have been rocking! While this style is not for everyone, it is still such a fun and versatile trend. There are many ways that you can bring this into your own style.

Fashion Colors
Fashion Colors by Josie

 Fashion Colors – So Many Options

Fashion colors range from grey to neon pink! Almost any hair trend can be used with these fun colors. Shown above, you see a pink ombre. You could also do highlights with a certain fashion color, or even a color melt.

Grey hair has been huge lately. With Kylie Jenner debuting hers, more and more girls are asking for this smokey style!

Fashion Colors
Colored Grey Hair

Fashion Colors – Are Extensions the Way to Go?

Having such brightly colored hair is a big commitment. It takes a lot of time and patience to truly get what you want from your hair. Without this patience, we can risk compromising the integrity of your hair. If you are looking for just a pop of color you can always try extensions. At Ashka Salon Spa we offer tape in and fusion extensions. Through the use of this wonderful tool we can give you instant pops of purple or blue without as much damage to your hair.

Fashion Colors
Purple Tape in Extensions

I used to have purple tape in extensions in my hair, and I absolutely loved them! I was able to enjoy the funkiness of purple without the upkeep I would have had if I had dyed my own hair that color. Unlike normal hair color, many extensions don’t fade. I kept my tape ins in all summer long and had no issues with any fading! Every time I see this picture I consider putting them back in!

If you are considering dipping your toes into the fashion colors trend, be sure to let our front desk representative know while you are on the phone with her! It is not your typical appointment and we all want our stylists to be best prepared for when you come in! Call Ashka Salon Spa today to set up a consultation or appointment 734-414-9980

Until Next Time,

Josie 🙂

Beauty VIP – Join at Ashka Salon Spa

Beauty VIP

VIP. Very Important Person. Who doesn’t want to be a VIP? At Ashka Salon Spa, with a $100 gift card purchase you can be just that! Becoming a Beauty VIP means you will receive nine coupons that are good for an entire year! Stop in soon though because this offer is only available until February 15th, 2016. We believe all of our guests are very important people and deserve to be treated as such!

Beauty VIP
Join Today!

With Valentine’s Day around the corner, this is a great way to spoil your special someone! By spending $100, you will be able to gift $250+ worth of relaxation. Let your loved one know how much they mean to you, for only a fraction of the price!

What’s the Perks of Being a Beauty VIP?

There are nine different coupons on your Beauty VIP card! That’s not even the best part. These coupons can be used any time from 2/15/16 until 2/01/17. That is nearly a whole year! The coupons include:

$10 off $50 AVEDA product.

Buy 3 get 1 free AVEDA products.

20% off AVEDA product.

$10 off Shampoo and Blow dry.

$15 off a Shellac Application.

$20 off Massage, Facial, or Deluxe Pedicure.

FREE Botanical Hair Therapy with a Haircut ($28 value).

FREE Lip Wax with Brow Wax ($15 value).

FREE Paraffin with Hair Color Service ($10 value).

Beauty VIP
Hair Color Service By Jordan

Don’t have someone to spoil you this Valentine’s Day? Spoil yourself! Make yourself a Beauty VIP. We challenged you to resolve to have healthy hair. Now we are challenging you to spend a little more time on yourself this year. We want to be with you every step of the way. Make 2016 the year of yourself. Sometimes we need to be a little selfish. Pamper yourself. Trust us, you deserve it!

Call Ashka Salon Spa at 734-414-9980 today to get more information!

Until Next Time,

Josie 🙂