Pro Tip

ProTip: Oil is great for many things, but a moisturizer it is not! Moisture is hydration, and can only be achieved with water or water-based products. Using oil as your moisturizer could eventually dry out your hair. Instead, use amika Oil Treatment as a sealant, to lock in moisture and keep excess moisture out. 

Pro Tip

ProTip: Your hair grows from your scalp, so if you’re not sure of your hair type, often times your skin type can be the best indicator. 

• For oily hair: amika Perk Up Dry Shampoo will absorb excess oils leaving your hair feeling cleaner + lighter. 
• For dry hair:  Moisture is key, use the amika Nourishing Hair Mask at least once a week to help repair your hair + moisturize. 

PRO TIP

ProTip: For hot humid days, rub the amika Oil Treatment into damp hair and then pull hair back in a bun. You will be cool, look chic and be nourishing your hair all at the same time!

Image via: Angela Lindvall for Marie Claire

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.

Pro Tip

ProTip: Adding layers to your hair can instantly slim your face, the added texture creates movement and emphasizes your bone structure.

Get this looks this look using these products from amika:
Blow Up Spray before you blow dry for extra volume.
Perk Up Dry Shampoo for added texture. 
Touchable Hairspray for hold. 

Pro Tip

ProTip: Kinks, curls, and waves thrive best with hair care regimens are hydration focused. Water improves the hair’s elasticity, while reducing breakage and enhancing curl definition! 

Suggested products for our curly-haired followers include:
Hydrating Conditioner for daily use
Nourishing Hair Mask for weekly maintenance 
Curl Defining Cream for styling

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.