Glaze or Gloss: Believe Helps You Shine

The exhausting holidays are behind us. You are back to your stress-filled job. Even winter—with its cold winds and overheated rooms--has finally made an appearance and your hair shows all the changes. It may be getting dry and brittle, but most of all, it is getting dull. What to do to bring out the shine? Try a gloss or a glaze.

There is a difference between the two (though some companies use the terms interchangeably on their products). A gloss sinks into your hair's cuticle and adds shine and can add color. (Glosses can also help correct a bad highlighting job). A gloss is more permanent than a glaze since it absorbs into the cuticle of the hair shaft, lasting two-four weeks.

A glaze coats the top of your hair –the shaft itself—with shine (like glazing a donut) and is semi-permanent, lasting about two weeks.

If you want to put a shine on your hair, a clear glaze will do the trick. But if you want to jazz up your color or highlights, go for a gloss.

We offer both at Believe and they are color products we “believe” in like Chromastics.

First we wash your hair with a Chromastics Clarifying Shampoo to prepare the hair and give you a heavenly scalp massage to help release your natural oils and rehydrate your hair (and refresh your soul). After the glaze is shampooed out, a moisturizing conditioner like Agadir Moisture Masque will be applied, left to sink into your hair's cuticle and then rinsed well.

Then it is time to apply the gloss or glaze, both of which are applied just like conditioner, from scalp to ends and left to work its magic for 10-20 minutes (Some products are even heat-activated) and then rinsed out.

Both glazes and glosses help colored hair retain its vibrant color and can even be used as subtle highlights in dark hair, making your hair “shimmer” underneath lights. If you have light-brown (or mousey brown) hair, a red glaze can bring about fabulous results. The glaze will not only bring depth and highlights to your hair, but your hair will shine copper under lights or in the sunlight.

The use of color-protecting shampoos and conditioner like Semi Di Lino Color Protection at home will make the effects of the glaze last longer. These products are 20% of this week at Believe.

Glazes are FREE this week at Believe when you book an appointment to get Single Process Highlights and a Cut, so make an appointment and come in to see how adding shine to your hair can help add a little spring to your step during the dreary winter months.

What’s The Buzz at Believe?

Products Spotlight: Iden International Products

We knew bees were hardworking, worked well as a team and produced some of the sweetest stuff on the planet—honey—but did you know bees are great health practitioners too?

Honey bees produce “Bee Proposis” which contain phytotonizides, a substance comprised of natural immunity factors which help protect their hive from bacteria, infection and decay. This same substance can be used to internally stimulate the human body and give it natural resistance to disease (as it is a natural antibiotic.)

Iden’s line of natural hair and scalp therapy products make use of those protective and nourishing properties supplied by Bee Proposis (thanks to our yellow and black buddies), combine them with Vitamins A, B complex and a host of herbal additions to promote healthy hair, scalp and skin. Iden, committed to using only the safest ingredients with proven benefits, makes use of the natural antioxidants and antibacterial qualities of these ingredients to restore, heal and protect.

Besides Bee Propolis, which also provides natural sun and UV protection, Iden products also contain:

• Aloe Vera- Native to the Arabian peninsula. Naturally soothes skin irritation and reduces inflammation.
• Apricot Kernel-High in vitamins E and B17. Contains omega 6 and omega 9 fatty acids.Naturally softens and moisturizes.
• Birch Bark-A botanical source of betulin, a natural anti-inflammatory. Traditionally used to treat skin irritation.
• Black Currant-Rich source of gamma-linolenic acid, a very rare essential fatty acid. Also high in vitamin C.
• Borage-Herb originated in Syria. A botanical source of gamma-lioleic, oleic and palmitic omega acids.
• Carrot Seed-Botanical source of vitamin A and antioxidants to protect hair and skin.
• Chitosan-Naturally derived polysaccharide compound. Locks in moisture for all-day hydration.
• Copaiba-Native to the Amazon rainforest. A botanical source for anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
• Evening Primrose-Helps soothe skin irritations. Contains high levels of gamma-linolenic and hydrating properties.
• Flax Seed-Consists of approximately 55% alpha-linolenic acid and is the most widely-known source of omega 3.
• Grape Seed-Rich source of bioflavonoid, a powerful antioxidant. Natural emollient for hair and skin.
• Hemp Seed-Contains proteins and amino acids.Helps strengthen, and increases elasticity and volume.
• Jojoba-Similar to scalp's natural oil. Acts as a natural humectant and locks in moisture.
• Marigold-Naturally soothes skin irritation. A rich source of flavonoids and antioxidants to protect the skin.
• Olive Fruit-High in antioxidants and vitamin E. Moisturizes and nourishes dry hair and skin.
• Perilla-Edible herb of the mint family. Botanical source of alpha-linolenic acids rich in vitamins and nutrients.
• Pomegranate- Native to the Himalayas. Contains natural antioxidant properties to protect hair and skin.
• Tea Tree-A potent antiseptic native to the Northeast coast of Australia. Traditionally used to treat dandruff/scalp conditions.
• Wheat Protein-Naturally moisturizes, strengthens and repairs hair. Adds body and fullness.

Iden offers an entire family of products and we carry many at Believe:

Daily Therapy offers maintenance for healthy hair and scalp. Bee propolis provides nutritional balance, and protects the hair and

scalp from daily environmental stresses and damage.

Hair Therapy focuses on nourishing and reconstruction of dry, brittle and damaged hair. Bee propolis delivers and abundance of amino acids and vitamins to revitalize nutrient-depleted hair.

Scalp Therapy offers a gentle and natural approach to scalp care and treatment, focusing on hair loss and thinning, and scalp issue like

dandruff. Bee propolis' natural antiseptic properties help to combat problematic scalp conditions.

Style Therapy offers a complete range of innovative styling products. Bee propolis provides natural antioxidants, UV & thermal protection to prolong hair color and guard against environmental stresses.

Skin Therapy is the natural remedy for dry, irritated skin. Bee propolis soothes irritation and its natural antiseptic properties help speed

healing. Daily use renews and protects sensitive skin.

Spa Therapy envelopes your senses with luxurious aromatherapy while anti-aging and energizing botanical complexes restore and strengthen your hair and skin.

We will be writing about these products often and will be delighted to recommend the one we know will be perfect for you. Come into Believe today for a free consultation. We’d love to see you.

Static Electricity: Avoid Getting Zapped This Winter

Winter is here (though in some places in the country, you wouldn’t know it) and with it comes dry air, overheated houses and the (literally) pain known as static electricity. Our hair stands straight up, our clothes stick in places we’d rather they not, and when we touch a doorknob, we get zapped.

There are ways to cut down on the nuisance, but first a quick look back to grade school science and what causes static electricity?

Atoms make up all physical objects and have inside of them electrons, protons and neutrons. Electrons carry a negative charge, protons carry a positive charge and neutrons are (as their name indicates) neutral. Opposite charges attract each other (just like some men and women we know) and like charges repeal each other. If all the charges are balanced, they become neutral.

Static electricity indicates that the charges are unbalanced and they build up on the surface of an article until they are discharged. One way that happens is by rubbing of certain materials against another. That action can transfer the charges --like if you rub your boot on a carpet, the extra electrons collect on your body, waiting to be released, say when you touch your doorknob or cat—then zap! You get shocked.

A cool way to demonstrate the attraction part of the principle (and amaze young kids) is to start a very thin stream of water flowing from a faucet. Run a plastic comb through your clean hair 10 times and bring the comb (slowly) close to the flowing water without actually touching it. The stream of water will bend towards the comb—just like magic.

Taking off your hat in the winter often causes your hair to stand straight up. Electrons get transferred from the hat to your hair and since objects with the same charge repel each other, your hairs are trying to back away from each other—that’s why your hair stands on end.

Okay, so now you know why static electricity happens, but what to do about it?

• Dry hair and skin adds to the problem. Come into Believe for a deep conditioning treatment at least once a month during this season when we are all heating our homes and offices.
• Use a daily conditioner like Iden Treatment to keep moisture in your hair. (Aestelance Butter can even be used on your dry skin—another catalyst for static electricity.)
• For a mid-winter treat, try a cup of heavy cream mixed with a teaspoon of lavender oil (tucked in a shower cap) as an overnight treatment.
• Switch from using plastic hair brushes to ones with natural bristles (we have a great selection at Believe.
• You may even want to spray a little anti-static spray on your hair brush before you blow dry (you can use the same spray on your clothes) like Aromatic Lotion Anti-Static Spray by Aestelance.
• In a pinch, wipe your hair (and the front and back of your panty hose) with a fabric softener dryer sheet.
• High quality hair sprays and gels like Iden Finish Spray and Hydrogel which we stock at Believe will help cut down on the problem.
• When it comes to your clothes—only dry them about 90% and then hang to dry.
• Sort natural materials from synthetics in your dryer or consider drying the synthetics entirely on a clothes rack.
• Try using vinegar in the rinse (the smell wears off as the clothes dry) but don’t mix it with bleach, else you might keel over from the fumes!)

Be sure to book that conditioning treatment at Believe right now to help make sure that your winter isn’t a hair-raising one.

Bobbing Into The New Year With Believe

It was the Roaring Twenties when the bob first made its appearance. Young flappers shortened both their skirts to their knees and their hair to chin length and declared their freedom from a lot of other rules, too. (Thanks to our grandmothers, we said goodbye to corsets and to asking our men to give us our opinions. We claimed the rights to our own bodies and the vote. We broke free of the drawing rooms and began to demand our place in the boardroom. The bob hairstyle went perfectly with our new freedoms and so it is today. Busier than ever, with jobs and family responsibilities weighing heavily upon us, the sleek, elegant and easy bob is turning up everywhere and may be the perfect hairstyle for 2012.

Bobs can be cut with straight or side parts, to ear or chin length or even longer, can be worn sleek or curly, sharply angled or asymmetrical, with or without bangs, ear length or much longer, the bob style haircut has stood the test of time and is here to stay. Bobs are easy-to-manage, as they can be washed, dried and styled in minutes and you are out the door, looking fabulous.

Chin Length Bobs

Cutting the hair off at the jaw, giving you a chin length bob allows your Believe stylist to make you look downright sophisticated. Thus bob may be slightly shorter in the back with subtle layers and bangs can fringe your forehead. (Remember, sideswipe bangs make full faces look slimmer and longer.) Or your Believe stylist can cuts the layers evenly all around or be fuller at the top and narrower at the ends. If you’ve got an unlined forehead (whether naturally or with a little "help”, you can show it off with your hair parted in the middle and no bangs obscuring your noble brow.

Short Bobs

If you hair is flyaway, baby fine or even thinning, a short bob can create the illusion of fullness. Your Believe stylist will cut layers into a blunt style, actually “stacking” the layers to make your hair look more full-bodied and voluminous. Not quite reaching the jawline, short bobs can even be slightly shorter in the back and you can choose bangs on your forehead. If you want to divert attention from your fuller face, ask you stylist to sweep your bangs to the side. 

Long Bobs

If you are taking the plunge from long hair to a short bob, consider this a safe way station along the way. Bobs cut longer than your chin can ease you into shorter hair without you dying of shock and look great on round or oval faces as they lengthen the look of your face.

Angled Bobs

Angle Bobs are great as we get older and for those with thicker hair. The look softens the aging face and is perfect for people with thicker hair. Your Believe stylist will cut your hair to the jaw and tapered it in layers. If such textured layers are stacked in the back, this style will even help solve a fullness problem.

Wavy Bobs

Although the Believe stylist will cut your bob evenly all around your head, you can add waves and curls for variety or, if Mother Nature gave you them naturally, you’ll find this look basically maintenance-free.

Other Types Of Bobs

Highlighted bobs can accentuate different portions of your hair by the virtue of using several different color highlights. Spiky bobs can be cut very short in the back and have a fringed neckline to soften things up. For an Edgier bob, your Believe stylist will make edgy uneven cuts to help bring out the rock star in you. Or try bangs cut straight across your eyebrows for that Cleopatra look (it worked for Elizabeth Taylor) and if you are feeling a little Mad Men, you can always flip the ends of your new bob outward (Shades of Doris Day.) Come into Believe and we’ll get you some products to help your “do” stay done like Volume by Aestlance, La Brasiliana Ricci for texture or Butter by Aestelance for a smooth sleek finish.

If you are unsure which bob is for you, stop by Believe and we will consult with you about the shape of your face and which bob will set it off perfectly, so you can step into 2012 looking sexy and sassy. Nobody’s going to mess with you this year! (Again, Happy New Year from all of us at Believe.)

Some Suggested Resolutions From Believe

Every year at the time, we are bombarded with talk of New Year's Resolutions. People fervently vow to lose 30 pounds or run 10 miles daily or a host of other things overwhelmingly abandoned, studies show, by February 15^th.

So instead of setting unrealistic physical goals, we at Believe are trying to work on our spiritual sides and make resolutions we really can work on daily throughout the year—no matter if we're facing down another piece of pizza or if a blizzard gets in the way of our jogging. These resolutions can help remake us from the only place that truly matters---from the inside out. Perhaps you'd care to join us in giving a few of these resolutions a go?

1. Stop That Voice In Your Head: The one that tells you that you can't...Can't lose the weight, get the job, find the lover, face the fear. Even if you have to say “No!” or “Stop!” out loud when the negative thoughts come back. (This makes you look less like a crazy person now that Bluetooth phones make talking to yourself respectable.) Then fill in that verbal space you've just created with a positive mental voice saying “”Go for it”, “One step at a time” or “Give it a shot.”
2. Realize You Can Do Anything For A Short Time: If you feel overwhelmed by the resolution to quit smoking or whatever you are finding difficult, use my mother's expression: “You can do anything for 24 hours. Hell, you could even be in prison for that long.” Break time into more manageable sections. Put off having that cigarette or eating that piece of pie for the next two hours, and then two more...It's like stringing pearls on a necklace.
3. Respond Don't React: Resolve this year that you will stop for at least a beat (preferably a day) and consider what you should do or say when faced with an alarming situation. Take a breath. Take another. Tell people you want some time to think things over. If it's an argument you are dying to have with someone, write down what you want to say, put the letter in a drawer for 72 hours and then take it out to see if you still want to say those things—or say them in that way. Remember, you never have to take back words unsaid.
4. Quit Worrying So Much: Worry never does anything except sap your energy, make you irritable and affect your sleep patterns. Every time a worry floats into your mind, stop it in its tracks and ask yourself if there is anything you can do about it now. If not, take a page from Scarlett O'Hara and resolve to think about it tomorrow. Legitimate planning for the future is okay (but no cheating on yourself. You know the difference between planning and worry.)
5. Don't “Should” On Yourself: There really is nothing you can do about spilt milk. Spending time saying to yourself, “I should have...” about any past event is a waste of time. Just put a bookmark on the behavior and don't do it that way next time.
6. Practice Kindness: Treat everybody you encounter with consideration—not just people your friends and family. Ask co-workers how you can help them. Offer your arm to help push a wheelchair or hold a door open for someone elderly you encounter at the mall. Go meet the mail delivery person so he or she doesn't have to take the walk to your front door to deliver that package. Let someone in front of you in rush hour traffic. Stop interrupting everyone's sentences.
7. Learn To Receive Graciously: From a compliment on your blouse to an offer to help you finish addressing those envelopes for your synagogue, don't backtalk (“Oh this old thing? It's a rag” or “Nah, I'll do it myself”). Thank the person offering you the compliment and take the assistance. It makes people happy to help you. Let them.
8. Resolve To Be Happy: At least for a part of every day in 2012, be happy. Step outside to smell the air. Go watch the Halloween parade, even if you don't have kids. Have lunch at the botanical garden. Volunteer to read at the local nursing home. Stretch your spirit in some way. Weed people, places and things that bring you down out of your life this year. Fill your life with uplifting things. Make sure you are one of those uplifting things for other people.
9. Be Good To Yourself: Take some time to meditate on the things in your life for which you are thankful (a Zum soy candle is the perfect accompaniment to this quality time with yourself). Treat yourself to a scalp massage and conditioning treatment after the hectic holidays. Take turns giving your partner a weekly massage (Zum Body Butters are fabulous for this.) Reinvent yourself this year: Let's try a new cut or color or both or add an extension or feather for fun (you can never have too much of that). Fill your shelves with wonderful products for your hair and skin to make 2012 a comfortable year for your outsides, too. (Come into Believe and let us make some suggestions.)

We, at Believe, hope you have a new year filled with health, prosperity, joy and many blessings. Thank you for letting us share your 2012 with you!

Wishing you and yours...

A joyous holiday season!
We are closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, but will be back on the 27th to get you looking even more beautiful for those New Year's parties.
Also, next week, we'll be posting a blog about some New Year's Resolutions that are a little different than the ordinary.
Till then, have fun with your family and friends and remember to love one another...all year 'round.
XXXXXXXX
Lisa and the staff at Believe

Let Believe Keep The Holiday Insanity At Bay

If you've braved the mall (or even driven by it) you know ---things are crazy out there!

According to the National Retail Federation, fewer shoppers have completed their holiday buying compared to this time last year.

According to NRF's 2011 Consumer Intentions and Actions Survey, conducted by Big Research, the average person had completed 46.5% of her shopping now- less than the 49.5% in the same period a year ago. Nearly 37 million people (16.5%) had not even started their shopping as of late last week, the survey says, while only 7.6% said they have completely finished shopping already.

If you are one of the procrastinators, take heart. We, at Believe, can solve your shopping dilemma and it only will take one stop—and a restful one at that. We'll give you a hot cup of herb tea and, while you sip, Santa's elves (cleverly disguised as the Believe staff) will check off the perfect gift for everyone on your list.

We even have some sales (so you won't miss the department store experience), Buy a White Tea Restorative Shampoo and Conditioner and you get a White Tea Daily Conditioner free (slip it in your own stocking!) or make everybody left on your list happy and get them a Zum Body Basket, now 20% off, with Zum Bath Salts, Zum Body Lotion and two Zum soaps in your choice of scents. (If the recipient is not yet a fan of Zum, they will be after this gift. Zum is addicting.)

Get the men in your life a fabulous after-shave, Tend Skin, guaranteed to baby his skin through the harsh winter you know is right around the corner. Add to your best friend's jewelry collection with a unique piece from the Japanese artist Kazuko and butter up all the babies in your life with Wee Baby products (the lavender scent helps the little ones sleep—and may even inspire visions of sugarplums dancing in their heads! Fido and fluffy are part of the family,too, and Y.U.M Wash Doggie Soap and Y.U.M mist will keep your home filled with holiday scents (instead of kennel smells.) Speaking of scent, be sure to stock up on Zum soy candles in wonderful scents like Myrrh (the Wise Man were on to something there.) Or cover all your bases by having the staff at Believe whip up a custom gift basket or come by and see the ones we already have waiting for you. If all else fails, Believe offers Gift Cards so your friends and loved ones can choose their own gift after the holiday.

While you are here, treat yourself...Get a festive red hair extension for $10 and we'll donate the money to charity (also to help those less fortunate, bring in any hair product you aren't using anymore –even half empty—and we will give you 20% off a product we recommend to substitute for it. We'll donate the used one to the Women's Shelter). Don't forget to make a appointment for a Conditioning Treatment and Blowdry (for $50) or a $25 Blowdry that will have you looking your best for that holiday party or church service. We've still got a couple of openings left.

When it comes to gifts, Believe's got you covered but hurry in. Our holiday hours are 10 am-7 pm Tuesday, December 20th through Friday, the 23rd. We are closed Christmas Eve for festivities for our own relatives and friends, but we'd love to see you—our other family—to wish you Happy Holidays.

 

Doing Up Your "Do" For The Holidays

Whether your plans call for an elegant dinner or a work get together at a spectacular restaurant, breaking out your finery (sparkly jewelry included) also means inviting your hair to the party. Put away the every-day, celebrate the occasion and sweep your hair into an updo.

 A French twist is no longer the only way for your hair to help raise your spirits. Try these variations on the classic and get ready to party like it's (almost) 2012:

The Rocker: 
Headed for The Hard Rock or the hippest party in Manhattan? This may be the style for you. Slather wet hair with a volumizing product like CHROMASTICS GEL to give more life and texture to your hair. Blow dry by using a round brush. Wrap your hair around the barrel tightly and blow your hair with hot heat aimed right at it till its dry. Back comb at the top for height and make a messy bun on the back of your head. Hold the do with bobby pins in the center and spray for hold with SCRUPLES HAIR SPRAY.

The Retro: Think serene thoughts of Princess Grace and use a smoothing serum like AGADIR MORROCAN OIL in damp hair. Blow dry with a vent and brush to up the shine factor. Plump up the roots with a little gel like CHROMASTICS TRIORGANIC SPRAY GEL. Make a ponytail and anchor it with bobby pins. Separate into two sections. Wrap one around as the bun section (secure with pins) and let the other hang loosely. Set with a finishing spray like IDEN FINISH SPRAY.

The Bedroom: Looking like you just came from a tussle in the boudoir with George Clooney is a good thing. Blow your hair straight with a large barrel brush. Take the top half of your hair and tease it. Afterwards create structure by combing it back with a fine tooth comb. Gather all the hair upward and secure with pins. To frame your face, let some loose strands fall and pull out wispy bangs. Enhance the sheen finish by spraying with a light mist like AESTELANCE SPRAY LIGHT.

The Innocent: Want to stand out from the holiday crowd? Employ the old saying, “less is more.” Blot your hair dry with a towel (gently!) and use your fingers as a comb to blow dry. Create a loose ponytail low on one side of your next using a wide tooth comb. Take the bottom of your pony tail and wrap the bottom into the elastic holding the ponytail, creating a bun. Spray with AESTELANCE LUSTRE to enhance the shine.

At Believe we carry all the wonderful products mentioned above and will be happy to consult with you about which of these updos will work best for you—or, better still, make an appointment for us at Believe to create that perfect updo style for you before the big party. (Consider it a holiday treat you give yourself.) But hurry! Our appointment book is filling up fast! While you are here, stock up on our fabulous selections of gifts for everyone on your list. We hope to see you soon!

Believe's Got A Gift For Everyone

Black Friday's past. Cyber Monday flew by and your gift-buying expedition is still only in the planning stages. If the thought of braving the mall gives you a headache or you dread getting that Amazon message that says your shipment won't arrive until January 8^th, we at Believe have got you covered. Here are gift selections for everyone you need to remember at the holidays. Come into Believe for one-stop shopping (and spend your extra free time making a wish list of things you want for yourself):

For your Mom: Unless your mother is Barbara Bush, she probably complains often about her gray or white hair. It's dull, it makes her looks old, she hates looking in the mirror. Bring her into Believe for a color rinse to replace that yellow tinge with a snowy and beautiful sheen or highlights to blend that gray into an intriguing salt-and-pepper mix. (Dad could benefit too. Tell him it will make him look distinguished.) Make an appointment now (or buy a gift card for future use.)

For your husband: Your husband probably grew up in a world where razors were plastic and came by the dozen and where his father's idea of skin care was a splash of Old Spice after the chin scraping. Well, times have changed and, while we aren't advocating guy-liner, it is no longer unmasculine to take care of your skin. Introduce your man to a great product for after the shave TEND SKIN. It will help keep his skin smooth and soothe irritation winters dryness.

For your boss: Hey, even managers need a little love. If you are stressed out at work, it's a good bet so is your boss. Get her (or him-- we aren't sexist) a scented soy candle from Zum. With rich fragrances like Myrrh (and metro-sexual ones like Pine), you can help provide a short mental vacation for your overworked boss and maybe they'll think kindly of you at bonus time.

For your sister: To make up for all those times she stole your clothes when you were kids, buy her a fabulous piece of jewelry from Japanese artist KAZUKO, who creates hand made unique and beautiful pieces that will help celebrate how unique and beautiful your sis is. The best part? You can “borrow” the jewelry when she's not looking.

For your daughter: Remember being a teenager where you sometimes had to get noticed to express your individuality or else you just faded into the crowd? Bring your teen (or tween) in for feather hair extensions and help your daughter shout to the world: “Look at me!” The extensions are fabulous fun and—the best part--are a lot less permanent than a tattoo or a pierced tounge.

For your grand-baby: Speaking of stress relief hardly anything matches the exhaustion of new parents. Everyone will get the little squirt toys and clothes. Invest in a set of Wee Baby skin care products by Zum and you can make the whole new family happy. This set of organic lavender body lotion, diaper cream, aroma-mist and soap is sure to help quiet a cranky little one and give Baby's parents what they need most—a little peace and quiet.

For the family dog: Fluffy isn't getting outside as much as the weather turns colder and, to tell you the truth, he's beginning to smell a little too aromatic. Get rid of that cabin fever smell by giving him a bath with Y.U.M. WASH Doggie Soap or give him a spritz with Y.U.M. mist. It's good both for his coat and skin and your nose. Bonus: Your house will no longer smell like a kennel.

For the omigod-we-are-having-a-gift-exchange situation: Don't have a clue what to buy Susie in the next cubicle? Come in to Believe and we will help make you up a custom gift basket based on any clues you have about old Sus...or check out our selection of gift baskets already created. You are sure to find one to save you at Secret Santa time or when you find out last-minute that Aunt Jennie is showing up at the holiday dinner.

Still feeling uninspired? At Believe the staff is well-trained in picking out the perfect gift, no matter who is on your list. Stop by or give us a call at 914-747-0778. We'll be happy to help (and glad to see you!) And remember, appointments for the holidays are filling up fast, so call today if you need spiffing up before that festive gathering. Hope to see you soon.

And They're Off!

Congratulations! If you are reading this, you have managed to live through Thanksgiving (and breaking bread with those family members you wouldn't have anything to do with if you weren't related), got a few bargains (and avoided getting trampled) on Black Friday. So far, so good.

But those two events are only the starting gun for the exhausting holiday season. You've got a long race to run, so we at Believe recommend you take this time (before you have none left at all) to take a deep breath and relax. Light one of our Zum Soy Candles and as you breathe in the lovely and long-lasting fragrance (like Frankincese and Myrrh and Pine) and feel your stress slipping away.

Such aromatherapy has been used for centuries and not always just for stress relief. Aromatherapy uses essential oils—the pure essence of plants—to provide psychological and physical benefits, as well as taking care of your general well-being.

Essential oils that are inhaled (like those found in our Zum Candles) not only trigger a reaction in the brain, but the natural “constituents” supply therapeutic benefits (for example, eucalyptus essential oil can help ease congestion—the natural origin of modern remedies like Vicks VapoRub.)

The Greeks, like the Chinese, Indians and Iranians before them, recognized the medicinal and aromatic benefits of plants. Hippocrates, the Father of Medicine, practiced fumigations for both aromatic and medicinal benefit and used myrrh (like in Zum's soy candes) for its aroma, anti-inflammatory properties and to heal wounds. An ancient Roman, Discorides wrote a book called De Materia Medica that described the properties of 500 plants.

But it was in the 11th century when essential oils truly began their heyday. A coiled cooling pipe which allowed plant vapor and steam to rise was invented by a Persian named Avicenna. By the 12th century a nun, Hildegard, made lavender famous for its healing properties and when the Black Plague decimated the countryside killing millions, essential oils were used by “the first responders” to stave off the disease. Eventually books were written and knowledge shared (an alchemist named Paracelcus, invented the word “essence”) and during the 16th century, people could buy oils at apothecaries. In fact essential oils and herbal remedies made up most of the medical toolbox until the late 19th century.

In the early part of 20th century, a French chemist, René-Maurice Gattefossé, was working with essential oils, testing their aromatic use, when he burned his arm badly. He plunged it into the nearest liquid available, which was a vat of lavender oil. The burn healed quickly and with no scarring. He began a study of the healing properties of essential oils and named the procedures aromatherapy.

Here are the seven most popular essential oils in aromatherapy and their uses:

Lavender--is used for relaxation, insomnia, and as a disinfectant, for adding fragrance to linens and delicates, and even for use of scalds and burns. Eucalyptus--is used to ease mental exhaustion and depression, add energy, treat colds and flu, and help shorten viral infections. Lemon---is used to relieve stress, anxiety, mental fatigue and tension and also as an astringent and antiseptic. It's good for itchy skin conditions like eczema and also on oily skin. (It even helps cut grease on dishes—just put a drop or two in the dishwater.) Peppermint--is used for stress, depression, tension and upset tummies and as a stimulant. It will also help clear the sinuses. Rosemary--is used to treat stress, help concentration and memory, relieve muscle aches, pains and migraines, ease arthritis, help skin problems (including acne) and even get rid of cellulite. Tea Tree (Australian)--it is used as an antiviral, antifungal, and antibacterial oil. It treats acne, sunburn (and other burns) and even helps get rid of warts. Ylang ylang--is used as an anti-depressant, sedative, antiseptic (and even aphrodisiac!) It is also good for acne, and oily or irritated skin. It is also considered a hair tonic (to help hair grow) and is even good on insect bites. There are a few don'ts when it comes to essential oils: They should never be used undiluted on the skin. They should always be applied via a carrier oil like sweet almond, apricot kernel or grapeseed oil, else their powerful concentration can irritate. Don't use the oils if you are pregnant or have high blood pressure (it’s always best to consult your medical practitioner before using anyway) and don't use on kids or pets (essential oils can be toxic to them both.) If you are prone to allergies, it is best to do a patch test first. But, used properly, essential oils can help you relax and Zum soy candles are a perfect way to bring some of the benefits of aromatherapy into your busy life. May we suggest you use them as the light source around a tub filled with fragrant bubbles? The lovely seasonal fragrances of Pine and Frankincense will whisk you away to a forest in Vermont or the palace of a King. Let the holiday rush wait a bit and catch your breath now before the Season gets into its full swing. (After you towel off, we here at Believe will even help you get great gifts for everyone on your list.) Till then, remember to be good to yourself.

Counting Our Blessings

Soon will be the day we stop to give thanks and it seems to us at Believe that one day really isn't enough. It will take many days—truly every day—to give thanks for all the blessings in our lives.

Another wonderful year is almost behind us and it would not have been so fabulous if it hadn't been for all our awesome (and loyal) customers. You make our jobs interesting, fun and fulfilling and with all the stories you share, you make us feel a part of your families, just as we feel you are part of ours.

We are thankful, too, for all the bounty we have—enough to eat, a great place to work, warm homes with strong roofs—but we are ever mindful that there are lots of people who don't have those advantages...those for whom bad luck or bad health has made their roads rockier. We at Believe are very grateful to be able to share what we have and lessen their burden just a bit.

Thanks to all who helped us support Pink Hair For Hope, The Sullivan Family (in memory of Grace Caeli Sullivan), The Hillside Food Outreach, Tina Gambino, Expressions, Locks of Love, Hope's Door, The Pleasantville Music Festival, The Pinwheel Project, Emma Konrad and PCD, CPD and CF, Westchester Autism Center, The Endometriosis Foundation, Ava-(who is fighting Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia), and the Graj Family Kidney Donation Event this year and please remember to keep giving. (We believe the good you do comes back to you...)

 Personally, I would also like to thank my husband Stewart and my son Koebbe who are always the wind beneath my wings. Polly Hunter, Bruce Rennie and Nadine Mockler who, because of their belief in me and their financial support, Believe Beauty Lounge became a reality this year and please remember to keep giving. (We believe the good you do comes back to you...)

Shannon, the General Manager here at Believe shared some of the things for which she is grateful, too:

• My parents, who taught me not only to be a good person but instilled in me a wonderful and solid work ethic (do the job, do it well and never quit until it's done.)
• My boyfriend, Vinny, who is always there for me (even through some tough times) and helps me stay grounded.
• My boss, Lisa, who teaches me everyday, not only about hair and running a salon, but about life. She has shared lots of invaluable lessons.
• Thanks, too, to our assistants at Believe, Sarah, Jackie and Alexa who help me keep everything running smoothly and help me pick up the pieces when things get bumpy and everything falls apart.

Shannon and I and all of the staff here at Believe know we are blessed to get to do what we love and work with and for such loving and generous people. We hope you are able to slow down your busy lives enough this Thursday to clearly see your own blessings

… and we hope those blessing multiply in the coming year.

Keep every day a day of Thanksgiving.

Lisa, Shannon and the staff at Believe

Shine On!

You may be forgiven if your summer hair gets a little drab, dull and worn out from the sun and salt, but now that autumn is upon us, you've got no excuse for not having hair so shiny it competes with all those holiday lights already popping up everywhere.

First a little lesson in what makes hair shiny. When the cuticle of the hair shaft lies nice and flat, it provides an even surface to reflect light. This smooth outer layer also repels the moisture that causes frizz—a real shine inhibitor.

And here's something you may not have known: Using only moisturizing shampoos and conditioners can actually interfere with the shine of your hair by building up dulling residue on the shaft.

What do to? About once a week, try an acidic finishing rinse after you wash your hair. The acids tighten up that outer layer of cuticle, letting more light bounce off that newly-smooth cuticle, making your hair even more lustrous. You can even whip up a simple acid wash right in your own kitchen. Try one of these rinses:

• Beer: After shampooing hair and washing out the suds, pour a bottle of beer into your hair and massage it in for a few minutes. Then rinse well with cold water. This beer rinse even helps give your hair body.
• Lemon Juice: After shampooing and rinsing as usual, mix the juice of a lemon with 1½ cups of water and pour through hair, before rinsing with cold water. Prepare for shine galore!
• Apples Cider Vinegar: Combine the juice of a ½ lemon (careful—it might lighten your hair a little) with 2 Tbs of the vinegar and 1 cup of water. Massage into hair and scalp and rinse with cool water to correct hair's pH and bump up the shine.

Now that you've gotten the gotten the gunk out, don't forget to put some good stuff in. Come into Believe every month for a deep conditioning treatment to beat winter stress and, once a week at home, apply a deep conditioner or heavy duty mask formulated to boost shine (while protecting the outer layer of hair). MOISTURE MASK BY AGADIR WITH MORROCAN OIL and AESTELANCE MUD MASK and IDEN TREATMENT and all are carried at Believe.

Every two months or so you may want to actually feed your hair by mashing one ripe avocado (use the rest for fresh guacamole--yum!) and mixing it with 1 Tbsp. olive oil and 1 tsp. baking powder. Work the mixture through hair. Leave on for 15 minutes, and wash out really well. It will really help you ramp up the shine.

To get a real mirror-like finish (and help that cuticle lay even flatter) use some of the great shine-enhancing products we carry at Believe like AESTELANCE LUSTRE.

The trick to these is to avoid putting the product on the roots (don't go any closer than 1½ inches from the roots) and always apply these products to dry hair. Generally speaking, pomades and waxes are good for thin hair and oils and serums work better on thick or coarse hair—but stop by Believe and we will give you a free consultation about which shine enhancer will work best for you.

Also, when drying hair, aim your blow dryer down the hair shaft, which smooths the cuticle (otherwise air pushes the cuticle up and along comes frizz.) Once your hair is almost dry, hit the cool button to seal the hair cuticle, which will help keep your hair smooth and silky.

The holidays are right around the corner and it is the season to shine! Make sure your hair does it's “part”(get it?)

And be sure to stop by to see us at Believe before any of those big holiday parties. We'll make you a shining star!