How-To Blowout Giveaway!

There really is so much more to blowdrying hair than simply getting it dry, especially when you're working with hair that is textured and voluminous. It's an art, and stylist, salon owner, and beauty blogger Tequila Fletcher is an artist. Don't believe the rumors, a well done blowout looks good on any hair type. Naturally curly and coiled hair can be made sleek without sacrificing body and bounce, while straight stands can be lifted an volumized. To prove it, Tequila is sharing with us her step-by-step pro tips for getting a perfect blowout for two very different hair types: natural + relaxed. Her tools of choice? amika of course, the Power Cloud Repair + Smooth Dryer, Straight Up Smoothing Balm, Oil Treatment, and Touchable Hairspray... and we're giving them away!

1) Start off with clean and conditioned hair.
2) Section hair into four sections.
3) Apply amika Straight Up Smoothing Balm to hair from root to ends. (Only apply a small amount of product. Too much product will make your hair greasy and weigh it down.)
4) Set your amika Power Cloud Repair + Smooth Dryer on a low/medium warm setting and proceed to dry the hair until 80% dry.

5) Clip all but one section of your hair.
6) Set your dryer to a higher and warmer setting and proceed to continue drying your hair using a medium round or paddle brush. Smooth the hair by sectioning small sections until done.
7) FLAT IRON TIME (do if you need to at this point). For those of you with natural hair, please make sure you are using a flat iron that heats up to 400º. For those of you with relaxed please make sure your not using heat higher than 300º. Smooth out your hair until finished.
8) Finish your hair using by using a few drops of amika Oil Treatment (if desired) and use the amika Touchable Hair spray set your perfect results.

How-To Blowout Giveaway!

Now that you've learned the steps to getting an amazing blowout, we're giving you the chance to win all of the amika tools + products you'll need to make it happen! Enter for a chance to win the ultimate blowout set that includes: the amika Power Cloud Repair + Smooth Dryer, the amika Straight Up Smoothing Balm, the amika Oil Treatment, and the amika Touchable Hairspray. We'll be choosing 5 lucky winners, 2 from Facebook, 2 from Instagram, and 1 from the entry form below. Contest runs Aug. 8-15th. (Open to US only. Prizes are non-refundable, and subject to change based on availability.) 

• For Facebook: LIKE+SHARE this post.
• For Instagram: Follow @love_ amika and @tequilaglamtresshair and repost this picture with #howtoblowout
• Follow the entry rules below. The more ways you enter, the more chances you have to win.

GOOD LUCK everyone!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

amika Destination: NYFW Finalists

We have selected our top finalists for the amika Destination: NYFW competition—and now it’s up to you to join us in selecting a winner! These five finalists have worked to create runway-ready hair looks inspired by their favorite designers for the chance to join the international amika team this September for an all-expense paid trip to New York City. Your votes will decide which stylist will win the trip of a lifetime—a five-day event packed with education, a pro photo shoot, and Fashion Week events.

To Vote: Head to the amika Facebook page, and view the finalist photo submissions in the Destination: NYFW Finalists photo album. Make sure to Like the photo of your favorite entry, as the stylists with the most "Likes" for their runway-ready look will be chosen a the winner.

But before you cast your votes, find out what inspired each look, how they were created, and what amika tools + products each stylist used...

Steps:

1. Begin by blow-drying hair while using the Power Cloud Dryer and  Straight Up Smoothing Balm. 
2. Next, after using the Heat Defense Serumr, part the hair and hold it up with the Straightening Tension Comb and create curls with the 25mm Barrel Curler.
3. After the entire hair is curled, secure with Touchable Hairspray, and straighten hair along the hair line with the Titanium Glide Obliphica Styler.
4. Section hair and begin to braid on the side.
5. Finish this look by adding a flower for summer, and once again spray Touchable Hairspray to secure. 

Steps:

1. Prep the hair with Straight Up Smoothing Balm.
2. Blow dry the hair using the amika Power Cloud, and infuse hair with the Oil Treatment
3. Curl hair using the 32mm Tourmaline Curler. 
4. Using the Touchable Hair Spray to set, brush and mold hair into a high bun. 
5. Apply additional Straight Up Smoothing Balm to the hair, before using a hair extension to finish the base of the bun. 

Steps:

1. Begin by prepping the hair with Blow Up Spray and Oil Treatment. 
2. Spray hair with Perk Up Dry Shampoo and texturize using the Titanium Glide Obliphica Styler. 
3. Use bobby pins to create zig-zagged figure-8s into the hair. 
4. Backcomb to add body and shape, and use Touchable Hairspray to hold the look in place. 
5. Finally, create a fishtail side-braid, and once completed, pull pieces from the final look to make the style look undone. 

Steps: 

1. Create a center part at the top of the crown, while separating hair from ear to ear into neatly clipped and secure sections. Apply Heat Defense Serum to each section. 
2. Beginning at the nape of neck, using the 3P Triple Barrel Curler, take 1" sections and soft-set the hair—working up to the crown and repeat on the sides.
3. When curls are set, remove the clips, shake out the curls, and gently run fingers through hair.
4. Create a diagonal ear-to-ear part, and clip sections upwards.
5. Securely clip the back of the style up, to ensure it will not interfere while styling the front section.
6. Begin with the right side, and back comb the hair from the inside, and smooth with comb out brush and begin to roll inward to create first victory roll. 
7. Repeat on other side. 
8. Take down the hair in the back and slightly back comb hair to create volume. 
9. Set the look with Touchable Hairspray. 

Steps:

1. After prepping the hair with Perk Up Dry Shampoo and Oil Treatment, use the 25/28mm Curler to create curls.
2. Take two diagonal partings from recession to just in front of the ear, and style a fishtail braid. Smooth the braid with Leave In Cream. 
3. Tease hair at the crown and spray with Touchable Hairspray.
4. Begin to pin hair at the sides, and then take sections from bottom, and gently (and randomly) pin hair until it is all up—creating a draping effect.
5. Finish the look with Touchable Hairspray.

amika on SALE NOW on HSN!

Tune in to HSN today @11pm EST, to get exclusive limited time offers on amika Pro Tools! We've got a 45 minute slot where you can purchase amika Powercloud Dryers + Ceramic Stylers + our GoGo Travel Set, at an all time low prices. Exclusive prices won't last long so get it before it's all sold out! 

Here is the line up for the night:
3min: Pink Swarovski Ceramic Styler ($99) - Limited Edition Print!
5min:  Power Cloud Repair + Smooth Dryer ($99) - Limited Stock, so get it while you can!
10min: Power Cloud Force Drying System ($99) - Reduced S&H!
23min: GoGo Travel Kit ($80) - Plus 3FLEX + Free S&H = THO Saved!

Plus, get hair care tips from amika spokesman, and professional stylist, Martino Cartier. He will be demonstrating how to use amika tools and answering all of your amika questions with his pro haircare tips. 

For updates on the sale, follow @love_amika + @martinocartier on Twitter!

Casting Now: amika Pro Educators

LEAD EDUCATORS AND REGIONAL EDUCATORS NEEDED

amika, offering incomparable professional-quality products, has been embraced as a new leader in the professional salon, fashion and hair styling industry. From its revolutionary styling tools, to its miraculous Obliphica Line of Haircare, amika is in constant development of new ways to perfect the art of hair styling. amika products are used and sold exclusively through professional hair salons—and we are looking for educators to help spread the love!
As a licensed stylist with working knowledge of amika products, the role of an amika Educator is to teach, inspire and develop stylists and salons. An amika Educator reports directly to the National Pro Education Manager. All Educators will work closely with Brand Managers to educate stylists, salons and distributors on the amika brand and product knowledge.

We are looking for Freelance Educators in the following regions:
Orange County, CA
San Francisco, CA
Los Angeles, CA
San Diego, CA
Jacksonville, FL
Gainesville, FL
Pensacola, FL
Orlando, FL
Miami, FL
Tampa, FL
Naples, FL

Job Functions

• Work closely with the Education Department and Brand Managers to execute successful events consistent with amika image and goals
• Execute in-salon classes and product knowledge training
• Actively participate in model calls, in-salon events, fashion shows, trade shows, road shows, media events and photo shoots as needed
• Act as a resource for distributors, salons and stylists
• Submit weekly reports to the National Pro Education Manager
• Test new products and provides detailed feedback
• Attend meetings as requested

Knowledge and Skill Requirements

• Strong and creative styling skills with a focus on blowouts, updos, and cutting
• Fashion/editorial hairstyling awareness and interest
• Awareness of beauty and fashion trends
• Professional personal image
• Understanding of and dedication to the amika brand
• Energetic, well-mannered and humble
• Motivating and supportive as an educator
• Professional, punctual, proactive, organized and respectful
• Experience as an educator preferred, but not required
• Strong presentation and communication skills
• Desire to grow the brand, product line and education
• Willingness and ability to travel with flexible schedule
• Holds a valid driver's license

If you feel that you would be a great addition to the amika Pro Education Team, email your resume, cover letter, images of your work to pro-education@loveamika.com. 

Also, to be considered, please submit a link to a video demo. The video should be a maximum of 15 minutes, demonstrating a style look of your choice (updo, down style, etc. no cut or color). We are not only looking for the best styling talent across the country but also for candidates with personality, professional appearance, and those who are comfortable speaking in front of a crowd. Please don't forget to introduce yourself and tell us why YOU want to be an amika Educator!

-When submitting your work please use your region as the subject title (ex: California Educator)

"Night After Hair" Styled by Mireille Bertrand

amika Educator, stylists Mireille Bertrand, was working her hair magic recently. As you can see, when rocked properly, soft bouncy curls can be edgy and bold! Loving this look? Mireille's giving us the details on how to get it using amika tools + products:

To begin, prepare your hair with the Obliphica Oil Treatment. A few drops into the palm of your hand lightly distribute throughout the hair will eliminate frizz and will be improving shine. Using the 3P Triple Barrel Curler – and working only the mid-length and ends of the hair – create a rounded, diffused texture. Vary your placement of the barrel always taking a 2 inch section so the end result doesn’t appear too even.  The interchangeable barrel curler allows you to choose a large and medium size barrel for more creativity.  Allow the hair to cool and work you hands through in order to create a modern texture that will last.

Photographer: Jolie Kinga

Model from Next Agency

Stylist Spotlight: Vincent Lann

Salon Name & Location: Freelance and Alibi salon 67 Greene St, Suite #2, New York, NY 10012

Website: www.vincent-lann.com

How and why did you get into the industry?I’ve always known that I wanted a career that was hands on and creative, and hair really seems like a no brainer since the industry is ever evolving and the creativity is endless.
What is your favorite part about being a stylist?
I love being able to bring out the inner beauty that is within all of us and of course pushing the creative boundaries of hair.
Who are your beauty idols?
I have many idols, from iconic beauties like Bridget Bardo & Farah Fawcett to current idols like Madonna & Lady Gaga.
Where do you get your hair & beauty inspiration from?
From runways, fashion magazines and even people-watching.
What is your Drug Store beauty secret?
Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser!
What beauty product or service do you splurge on?
A nice relaxing deep tissue massage.

How do you feel about the DIY revolution & how has it affected your business?
I think it’s great because women are taking more interest and care in their daily hair routine and they are willing to try out new styles whether it is in a salon or at home! 
What hair myth do you want to put to rest?
That you shouldn’t wash your hair everyday because it’s bad for your hair. Everyone is different and unique in their own ways and if you are like me you will wash your hair at least once if not twice in day because of an oily scalp! Just remember to brush your hair with a natural boar bristle brush before washing your hair because your natural oil is one of the best things for your hair.

Do you prefer your clients to bring in pictures of how they want their hair cut/dyed/styled?

I wouldn’t say it’s necessary, but having a visual reference that can help pinpoint what your client likes about the picture is great, especially for first-time client. That way you get a better sense of who your client is and what they are trying to accomplished.
Who does YOUR hair?
I bounce around a lot because I haven’t found my dream stylist, but I doubt I will because I’m a stylist myself so I tend to be a little critical.
What hair trends are popular right now?Sleek hair with textured ends. It’s the new beach waves.
What hair trend are you tired of?
Badly done creative color ombre. If you are going to be creative, make sure that the ombre will suit your skin tone and style, because the last thing you want is for your creative ombre to be well... too creative.
What do you think is the next big trend in hair?
Braids! They are so versatile and with summer around the corner you’ll be sure to see them everywhere.
How has advanced consumer knowledge affected your business?
I’ve always educated my clients about their hair and what they need, and I think it’s great that consumers are able to find out more information about what they are putting in and doing to their own hair, because the more you know, the better.
What is your favorite amika product or tool and why?
My favorite amika tool would have to be the Five Barrel Curler, because with 5 interchangeable pieces you could create a variety of different sizes, curls or waves, and from there the sky's the limit!

ProTip: If your hair tends to fall flat after styling, this will be a great 5 second fix that will give your hair a quick boost of volume. All you have to do is to spray some Amika touchable hairspray onto the palms of your hands and with your fingers spread, reach into your hair from underneath and massage the hairspray onto the scalp, giving the root a nice boost of va va voom.

Stylist Spotlight: Naeemah LaFond

Salon Name & Location: amika (NY, NY) – National Pro Education Manager 

How and why did you get into the industry? I began my career doing session styling, and as a creative soul I fell in love with the art. My favorite part of being involved in the education process is that I get to be surrounded by fellow stylists where I can inspire and be inspired. 

What is your favorite part about being a stylist? The creativity 

Who are your beauty idols? Charlize Theron and Beyonce

Where do you get your hair & beauty inspiration from? The Red Carpet & the runways

What is your Drug Store beauty secret? St.Ives Apricot Scrub

What beauty product or service do you splurge on? I’m a spa junkie. I once went to a spa in Iceland and got a facial in a hot lagoon over-looking the mountains. I’ve been having a great time trying to top that experience ever since. 

How do you feel about the DIY revolution & how has it affected your business? DIY’s are a great way for clients to look amazing between salon visits. However, there is nothing better than having your hair professionally styled and getting the expert advice of a trained stylist.
What hair myth do you want to put to rest? Greasy hair. There is no such thing…it’s your scalp that is greasy. If you have that issue, you want to look for hair products that treat the scalp as well as the hair.

Do you prefer your clients to bring in pictures of how they want their hair cut/dyed/styled? Pictures ensure that both the stylist and the client are on the same page.

Who does YOUR hair? I do my own hair. I’m not the best client. It’s like cooking for a chef….too much feedback. 

What hair trends are popular right now? Retro Waves….they were all over the golden globes.

What hair trend are you tired of? Pastel Colored Hair

What do you think is the next big trend in hair? Updos. People are doing a lot more interesting things with their hair now with DIYs and social media image sharing being so popular. 

How has advanced consumer knowledge affected your business? I get to be more creative with the classes that I teach. Salon clients want the most current and unique looks, therefore, stylists are reaching out for more advanced training and on-trend styling classes to keep up with the demands.   

What is your favorite amika product or tool and why? My favorite amika product is the Digital Titanium Clip Free Curler. It’s the perfect size for beachy waves and messy chignons.

ProTip:

-A quarter size amount of the leave-in cream cocktailed with a dime sized amount of the oil treatment is the perfect remedy for parched curls.

-We’ve heard before that updos last longer on hair that is a little bit dirty. However, if you are prone to oily roots you can spray some perk up dry shampoo into your roots before your updo (especially at the hairline) so that your hair looks fresh but still has staying power.

amika™ Obliphica on StyleList.com

StyleList called Sea Buckthorn Berry, the key element in amika™'s Obliphica haircare line, the beauty ingredient to know now.

They also related a ancient legend about the fruit:
"Legend has it, that the 13th-century Mongolian conqueror Genghis Khan's soldiers were very close with their horses, so that when a horse was injured in battle, instead of killing it, the soldier would leave the horse behind to die a peaceful death," explains nutritionist Dr. Lindsey Duncan.

"When Genghis Khan and his army returned to the same battlefield a year later, the soldiers were shocked to see their horses alive and well, with shiny coats of thick, beautiful manes. The horses had healed their wounds by eating the sea buckthorn berries that grew naturally in the area," adds Duncan.

These fables about Sea Buckthorn Berry aka Obliphica are up for dispute but what we do know is that the high concentration of Omega 3, 6, 9 and 7 in Obliphica helps nourish and moisturize hair and skin. Read the full piece here.