Hair Trends

When it comes to kid's hair, sometimes it's easy just to cut their hair at home if it's a simple trim. But sometimes having a professional do the work is necessary and maybe a fun splurge or even a back-to-school look. Without being over the top, here are some cute inspirational cuts for kids that set the tone for a fun, fresh look for the kiddos. Girls @halcyonsalonshelby   What's more classic than some curls. This cutie looks ready for her first day back to school with her hair color and beautiful curls on point. It's not too short but not super long either. This is a great look for any little girl.   @impactbeauty_byshay A simple bob is always in style. Sometimes a little girl just doesn't want to fuss with long hair. With a one length pretty bob that's curled at the end, this little girl is rockin' it. It's low maintenance, can be styled in various ways and shows off her youthful, feminine energy.   @topnotchbeautycorner Adorable, trendy and cute. This little girl has got it going on in a stylish, fun way. The small details like the gold crown trinkets and gold coil around the braid make any little girl look and feel like a princess.   @definitionssalonspa Say yes to the curtain bang. Simple curtain bangs that frame the face add some style and depth to long straight hair. Part the hair down the middle for curtain bangs or style them for a side swept bang with a side part to change it up. The curtain bang is versatile!   @hairby_angelina_ine This little girl is beyond her years with this asymmetrical bob that is to die for. And with straight one length bangs, her look is sassy and fun. It's sure to catch a lot of adoring attention...from the parents.   @balayagemary A heavy chunky bang is always super cute on little girls. They can somehow pull it off much better than adults. Why is that? Combine it with some waves and you've got a feminine, sweet look. It's easy to maintain and very versatile.   @holykale.hair Is she growing up too fast? This little girl looks like she has an adult haircut. With a cute French bob, highlights and slight wave, she's letting everyone know she's the queen of trending hair. Maybe not easy to maintain, but it sure is cute!   Boys @luiselbarber Doesn't he look sweet? This gentleman's...or should we say gentleboy's haircut is clean, classic and tidy. It's short on the sides with a little length on top and combed to the side. This little man is ready for school.   @salonsuccess This little guy is just cool. While it's temporary, a little hair art shows off his creative side. This kid has great hair so having his hair very short on the sides but longer on top makes his look more edgy and stylish. It's a bit higher maintenance, but it's fun!   @machitong Can we say mullet? It's not for every little boy, but they sure look cute with one, much cuter than adult males. This kind of cut looks best when the hair is naturally a bit textured. He's pulls it off well.   @xv.josh How cute is this little boy? That smile is adorable and the precise and clean lines of his haircut are on point. The extra design at the top just set this hairstyle off. A bit high maintenance, but it's mainly just the outlining that needs regular attention.   @hairbiz.withizz Scroll through all the images and you'll see this haircut is more than it seems. At first it looks like a pompadour, but when you look at the back, it's a whole other story. This look works well on a boy with a great head of hair. It's edgy, relatively easy to maintain and stylish.   @a1errthing This little boy looks so happy and he should be! This haircut fits him perfectly. It's clean and stylish at the same time. He definitely looks school ready with his perfectly razored outlined hairline and simple hair design in the back.   @hairbyscheila For a more tidy, classy look, try a side hard part. It's easy for any barber to create with a razor and it gives an extra pop to any boy's hairstyle. Comb the top of the hair to the opposite direction of the part and use a little product. He's ready to go!

When it comes to cutting hair, there are many tools available to stylists and barbers. Two of the most common tools are scissors and razors. Both tools have their benefits and drawbacks, and knowing when to use each one is an important skill for anyone who cuts hair. In this article, we will discuss when you should use scissors versus a razor to cut hair.   What are Scissors Good For? Scissors are a staple in any hair cutting kit and it's the first tool a stylist or barber likely learns with. They are a versatile tool that can be used to create a wide range of haircuts, from blunt cuts to layered styles for both men and women and short and long hair. Scissors provide more control and precision than a razor. So if the goal is a blunt, defined, structured hairstyle, such as a one length haircut or a blunt bob, scissors are likely the best choice.   What are Razors Good For? Razors are best used for creating softer, more textured haircuts. Razors are especially useful for creating layers, adding texture and removing weight. Unlike scissors, razors can create a softer, more natural-looking finish that is perfect for a lived-in look. A lived-in style feels like someone has had the haircut for a while and it's not fresh out of the salon or barbershop. Some haircuts such as shags, pixies and mullets benefit highly from using a razor.   What about Curly Hair? Curly hair is a little tricky and controversial. Curly hair can be cut with either a scissor or razor, but the results really depend on the technique of the haircutter. Having control at the ends is key to prevent frizziness. Razors are often know to create texture so one might think razors are not appropriate for curly hair. However, if used with intention, razors pose no detrimental issues when cutting curly hair. Razors should be used to cut a soft line but not super textured. The lines should have some firmness to it with a definite line. It should be noted that scissors are not totally free from frizz creation. Sometimes using scissors or texturizing scissors to create texture at the ends can result in frizz. So learning from a professional who has a deep understanding of cutting curly hair is your best bet for how and when to use scissors and razors to cut curly hair.   Can Scissors and Razors be used on Dry Hair? It's widely accepted that haircutting tools are best used when hair is wet. But what about on dry hair? While stylists and barbers have differing opinions, many agree that dry haircutting is acceptable in certain instances. If at the end of the haircut you realize something was missed, a little dry haircutting is appropriate. So using scissors and razors for finishing touches is okay. But in general, for the full haircut, wet hair is best.   What else to Consider? When using scissors or razors to cut hair, it is important to use a sharp, clean blade. A dull blade can cause damage to the hair, leading to split ends and breakage. It is also important to use the correct technique when using these tools as improper technique can lead to uneven cuts and damage to the hair.   What about Hair Thickness and Density? With regards to hair thickness and density, it doesn't really matter. Razors and scissors can be used on any of these hair types. Again, it's all about the technique. It's good to note that razors are exceptionally good at removing weight and bulk in a more natural way but may not be as easy to use when it comes to thin or fine hair. The main takeaway when it comes to whether you should use scissors or razors to cut hair is to ask yourself what kind of hairstyle you're trying to achieve. You can create a bob with a scissor or a razor and you can get two totally different bob looks. Both tools are great and have their uses, but probably the best way to approach haircutting is to incorporate both for various areas of the haircut that would benefit from either tool. Knowing when to use each tool is an important skill for any stylist or barber which can help ensure clients receive the best possible haircut for their hair type and style. Tips & Techniques, Hair Trends

If you haven't heard of No Shave November, it was a movement started in 2009 by the Hill family in Chicago when their father passed away from colon cancer. Since then it's become an annual tradition to raise money for charity to educate about cancer and support cancer initiatives. The premise is that for the whole month of November participants do not shave in order to create conversation around the topic of cancer and to spread awareness of cancer prevention to save lives. Men decide to embrace their hairy faces and donate any money they would have spent on shaving and facial grooming to cancer prevention and treatment.  In the spirit of No Shave November, we're showcasing some cool looking facial hair found on the gram. While most of these are stylized beards and mustaches, it's just more interesting to look at shaped facial hair than those that run wild and free! While some people might grow their facial hair for the cause, they might want to keep their facial hair after November as a new look. There are so many facial hair styles and shapes and depending on facial hair density and thickness, it can really change the look of the face. Here are 10 beard and mustache inspiration pics to celebrate and spread awareness of No Shave November! 1) Seeing a beard of this thickness and length is not a frequent sighting! To grow beard hair this long takes real commitment and dedication. This beard looks well-maintained. Kudos to him for being able to manage it so well. 2) If you thought the first beard was crazy, this one will blow you away! How anyone can grow a beard this thick and this long is amazing. This is more hair than most people have on their head. But it's probably quite heavy and difficult to manage and maintain. Regardless, facial hair of this stature is unique, eye catching and takes a lot of maintenance to keep it nice and groomed. What he lacks on top of his head he makes up for in facial hair! 3) Transitioning to a more tamed and groomed beard and mustache, this look is clean and to be honest, quite perfect. You almost don't want to touch it for fear it will lose perfection. The crisp lineup, the even hairs at the bottom shape by scissors and the shaped mustache make this facial hair one to remember. The thickness and density are superb and the styling is fantastic. Paired with the rimmed glasses and slick back hair and he's got quite a style going on. 4) While there's likely not a pot of gold in that mustache, it certainly rings good luck. A fun twist on facial hair for St. Patrick's Day, this Irish coloring is festive and fun. See...even beards can have fun with color. Think of other holidays and how a beard can transform with color. 5) While these beards and mustaches aren't anything unique, what's fun about it is the father son look. Where dad's beard is completely white, the son's beard is completely black. It's a true representation of 'like father, like son' and the genetic tendencies to pass down how thick your facial hair can get based on your parent's genes. 6) Speaking of white beards, check out this Santa beard with a twisted mustache. It's a cool look that only some can pull off. But a beard and mustache like this must be maintained and groomed regularly to give it shape and style. He does a good job of this. 7) The thick and heavy mustache is impressive. To grow that much hair above the lip is a feat on it's own. Own it and show it off. Just make sure to keep it trimmed and neat. Tidy is key to stellar thick mustache. 8) Moving onto mustaches, this looks like it was curled with a curling iron! With the perfect twists at the end, the double handlebar is sure to get a double look from people passing by. A stache of this design requires a lot of wax to keep such a firm hold.   9) This mustache is quite different from the last. If you didn't trim your mustache above the lips, this is what it would look like. It's so thick and long, but still requires maintenance. Mustache wax helps to keep hairs in place. 10) Last but not least, the batstache. Yes, it's completely stylized, but how can we write an article about beards and mustaches and not include the batstache? This takes precision and an artistic eye to make this shape. Using a razor to get that perfect shape is key to this look. A great Halloween facial hair look or for any Batman lover, the batstache is fun and awesome! Well that's it for our 10 beard and mustache looks to consider. But more importantly, we shed light on a serious topic...cancer. By spreading awareness of cancer, we can learn how to prevent it and support causes that have meaning. If you'd like to participate in the No Shave November campaign, sign up and/or donate to the cause. Tips & Techniques, Hair Trends

Ahh...Halloween. The holiday where people get to be someone completely different from who they are. People take the time to get creative with their looks. From hair to clothes to make-up and shoes, Halloween is the one holiday where we can just express our creative juices in any way we want. Over the years, Halloween has progressively gotten more and more outrageous in terms of costumes. Some people plan months ahead to make sure they have the perfect look for Halloween from head to toe. Hair, in particular, is one area that can really complete a look. If you're looking for some Halloween hair inspo, this is the place. Whether it's hair for yourself, family or clients, here are 10 Halloween hair inspiration ideas that will get your juices flowing. 1. @land_of_ozzPerhaps you don't have a character you're trying to emulate. That's ok. Sometimes you just want to get in the spirit but don't actually want to be someone or something. This colorful hairdo is funky and fun. The quintessential Halloween colors are present in this look. The candy corn colors all give the feeling of something witch crafty. Paired with some Halloween inspired make-up, jewelry and clothes, this hair gets you in the spirit. 2. @tiffanymhairCan we say Maleficent? Wow, this one really takes the cake for a beautiful job well done. From the horns to the dullish colors, this one is hard to beat. One of the most reposted Halloween hairstyles on Instagram, it's no wonder why. Just making the horns could be half the battle. Of course, the horns don't have to be this big, but they definitely make a statement. Evil and demonic, that's what Halloween is all about. 3. @hairbyrobertinaPlay it cool with a discreet undercut. While the spider web is popular, the design doesn't have to be of a web. If you're good at making designs (or would like to be) try a skeleton, pumpkin, ghost or whatever you fancy that says 'Halloween' to you. For a more noticeable reveal, tie the hair up for everyone to see. Using a clipper or razor you can achieve some fantastic designs like this one. 4. @yg_thebaybraiderInstead of Halloween colored hair or shaving in a design, this one is all about braids. Create that spider web look with just braids! This takes some time and know-how but the end result is pretty cool. The large braid down the center is giving some K-pop Demon vibes.  5. @pelo.guapoHave short hair? Like buzz cut short hair? This one is for the short hair peeps. The best part is, you can shave it all off whenever you want. But who wants to shave off a cute skeleton face? This Nightmare Before Christmas Jack face is a great style for those who want something unique but not too complicated. Unfortunately, if you're trying to do this to yourself, you're gonna have problems. This one is best done on someone else for good reason. Plus, you're going to need a creative eye for making faces. Experiment with other designs like a spider, witch or maybe some candy corn. Get creative and add some fun colors to make it pop. 6. @yuni_yoshidaIt's gorgeous and morbid, but nonetheless striking. What more can be said about this masterpiece. Instead of cutting into the hair to create a design, how about actually making a design out of the hair? This one blows our mind in that it takes careful attention to detail and precision to make this look come to fruition. But if perfected, this look would be the talk of the town. Such creativity does not go unnoticed. Take your hair design to the next level with something like this. 7. @ironrosesalon and @maryjane_guerreroDoing a hair design doesn't mean all the hair has to be short. Just carving out one section of the head can be punk rock, but keeping the rest of the hair long and flowy (even curly) can bring some feminine vibes back into the style. This one incorporates a graveyard with some spider webs, some orange pops of color and soft curls. What a combination! Is anyone else wondering what the other side looks like? 8. @seagreenehairIf you find you're going to be out at night on Halloween (which most people do), this glow in the dark look is brilliant. Imagine being in a dark room but standing out with bright hair and a Jack-o-lantern face? Super cool. Even in non-dark situations this look would stand out like a sore thumb. This look would take a bit of time but the results would be worth every minute. 9. @viola_pyakIf you're looking for something classy but not too difficult, this ponytail spiderweb will do just that. No need to color hair or tease it to oblivion. This Halloween-ish look is sexy and sophisticated at the same time. Keep hair simple and easy to manage with this spidery style. It's sure to still turn heads and get lots of compliments. 10. @sarahmasoncreativeInstead of using a real witch's hat, why not just make it out of hair? Of course, a lot of hair would be needed and long hair at that! Plus, a good teasing comb, hairspray and a crimper would be good to have in order to create the volume needed for this one. A touch of temporary hair color adds some dimension and pop to the style. If you're adventurous, this one could be a lot of fun. So that's it folks! These 10 Halloween inspirational looks should give you some ideas for yourself, your clients or your family and friends. Halloween is a time for fun and creativity...and maybe candy. But here's your time to shine and show what you can really do with hair. Get inspired. Get creative. Get in the spirit of Halloween! Tips & Techniques, Hair Trends, Fashion, Photography

At the age of 21, I poked out my left eye. While the surgeon saved my eyeball, the eye is different now in that I can only see in 2D. My inability to have any depth perception has affected me significantly. So I had to adapt and make various adjustments. Because of my injury I avoided eye contact for years. But at the time, it didn't matter to me because I worked in a tool and die shop and didn't have to make a lot of eye contact.   But then I lost my job at the plant. I sat in my car in the parking lot for maybe five minutes before realizing it was time to scratch my long time itch of becoming a hairdresser. So I did it! I went to school and became a hairstylist. While in school, there was a cutting class by Vivienne Mackinder during which I was allowed to assist her. She used this wonderful tool: the JATAI Feather Nape & Body Razor. She created beautiful texture in all her cuts and spoke of not just cutting hair but also of sketching and drawing. I graduated and got my first job at a high-end salon working under Barsoum Bashar, my mentor. I learned so much from this man, but most of all, purpose! I knew my place was not doing color, keratin or just doing what most hairdressers do. Within six months of working there I began seeing the same thing over and over again, long sections of hair in the crown. This would always attract my eye to the top of their heads. I had finally become comfortable with eye contact, but now my eye was being drawn away from theirs and instead fixated on the top of the head. The hair was taking away from the person. I wanted to change the experience, particularly for short haired clients.   I noticed the hair whorls, it was all I could see. But I decided to never fear a hair whorl again. I chopped the suckers off! By keeping the front of the hair longer, it drew the eye away from the back of the head and focused it toward the front. Eye contact was easier as there was now a focal point. It worked, but I noticed clients were returning every three weeks. It felt too soon. How could I get more longevity out of my work? I used texturizing shears the way I was trained to. I blended and removed weight the way I was trained to. But there they were every three to four weeks back for another cut. Most hairdressers would be cool with this, but I was not. I wanted to provide value to my clients. I was charging premium rates so I wanted to give premium service.   The same problem areas would arise: the parietal ridge and the back hair whorl. I began to think of the meaning of insanity: doing the same thing over and over again expecting different results. I looked at my texturizing shears and it just clicked. I was blending but that was creating the problem. The hair that was cut was creating lift. But how would I remove hair from the scalp without cutting my clients, and still give a great cut? If only I could draw out weight with a pen. That was my lightbulb moment. Remembering Vivienne talk about drawing and sketching, I immediately grabbed my JATAI Feather Nape & Body Razor and drew on paper. No cut. Then my arm. No cut. And then my head. I didn't cut myself but it removed hair. I hit the ground running. I began drawing into cowlicks, whorls, and into the parietal ridge and the results were awesome. Then I simply combined the focal point technique with the razor and it all felt right.   Suddenly, my clients came in every six to eight weeks. The value I was giving turned into a massive influx of referrals. I really did not think the focal point technique I developed was all that special; I simply wanted to do better for my clients. One day, a fellow hairdresser named Marisa commented about my clients grow-out. I gave the credit to the razor, but she disagreed with me. Marisa asked me to teach her this technique which I did. She also encouraged me to name it. We named it on the road from the ABS hair show in Chicago: The Focal Point Technique!   You can see how I do the Focal Point Technique on JATAI Academy's Education CONNECT. But basically, it consists of three main parts and is used to cut very short hair: Creating a focal point by cutting the hair very short at the crown which gradually becomes longer toward the front. The front becomes the focal point for the eyes Cutting the hair at the parietal ridge for better blending so that the haircut grows out nicely. This extends the life of the haircut and adds more value to your haircuts Using the JATAI Feather Nape & Body Razor to seamlessly remove weight like a pen. This tool is preferred over the Styling Razor or Plier Razor because it's small for greater control, has guarded blades so you won't cut yourself or your client and you can easily hold it like a pen for drawing and sketching.   We opened our own business because of this tool. Marisa married me. I can't give the razor all of the credit for that one, but I do have a big black Harley because of it. The JATAI Feather Nape & Body Razor, Vivienne Mackinder, Barsoum Bashar, Marisa Reinhold, and all of my wonderful clients have given me the greatest life I only could dream of.   This is my before and after look using the Focal Point Technique. You can read more about it on my Artistry Connect post. Tips & Techniques