Continuing Education

Beleza will be closed today for advanced training. Learning new foil and color placements to better serve you.

Model Class for Blowouts, Haircuts & Chemical Services

Classes are every Monday starting 01/01/11

Haircuts are $10 for men $15 for women 

Chemical Services are $25

Blowouts $20

Beleza Couture Studio takes education very seriously. On Mondays you can book a haircut , blowout, or chemical service for class. Haircuts are $10 for men, $15 for women , blowout $20, and chemical services are $25. Please call the salon and please be clear that you want to be a model for the Monday class. Appointments are 2-3 hours long depending on the service.

Essiential Oils

ARGAN OIL

Argan oil contains exceptionally, high levels of essential fatty acids, including linoleic acid (omega-6), which protect and repair the hair. These fatty acids also stimulate intracellular oxygenation, helping to restore the vital balance of water and fats in your hair.

The very high level of vitamin E have moisturizing and healing properties and is one of the most biological, antioxidants in neutralizing free radicals. It is ideal for regenerating and nourishing, dry hair.

Argan oil is pressed from the fruits of the Argan tree (Argania Spinosa) that is native to Morocco and known to live up to 200 years. For centuries, Moroccans have used Argan oil in skin care and within their nutritious diet.

Argan oil remains one of the rarest oils in the world. A very labor-intensive process, performed primarily by Moroccan women, is required to shell and crush the fruits prior to pressing the oil.

Argan oil possesses a remarkable ability to nourish, moisturize and improve hair’s elasticity. The oil is high in lipids, including the omega-9 oleic acid and the omega-6 linoleic acid.

Oil Properties:
• Absorbs Quickly
• Highly Moisturizing
• Golden in Color with Moderate Viscosity
• Rich in Alpha Tocopherols (Vitamin E)
• Rich in Phenols and Phenolic Acid
• Rich in Carotenes
• Natural Antioxidant
• Anti-Inflammatory
• High in Fatty and Essential Fatty Acids

BELEZA EXPRESS BLOW-OUTS

Come experience the most requested service in the industry. Beleza blow-outs………..for all well groomed women on the go.

blow outs

shampoo & blow dry styling

$35,45,55.

a la carte extras: partial flat iron $10, full flat iron $20,rollers or curling iron $20 and up.

Call today to inquire about our Express Blow outs starting September 1, 2010.

www.belezacouturestudio.com

Brazilian Keratin Treatment

DO’S (Before Shampoo)

1.Do wear hair down all the time.

2. Do use a blow dryer if the hair becomes wet during the initial three or four days development period following  the Treatment.

3. Do use a flat iron to re-straighten areas where needed.

4.Do use a silk scarf or Gripas to preserve the straightness of the hair during the three or four day development period.

DO’S (After Shampoo)

1.Do use shampoos and conditioners that are sodium chloride and sulfate free; preferably the Marcia Teixeira, Pureology, or Agadir Argan Oil, that prolong the results of the treatment.

2. Do style as desired.

3. Do enjoy your beautiful, smooth, shiny, and frizz-free hair!

DON’TS(Before Shampoo)

1. DON’T wash the hair for three of four days so that the treatment can develop fully.

2. DON’T tie the hair into a pony tail or braid. Either can create unwanted dents, weaves or curls.

3.DON’T use hair clips, hair bands or bobby pins, since these can affect the straightness of the hair.

4.DON’T sweat excessively. Avoid working out and or swimming during the three or four day development period.

5. DON’T put your hair behind your ears or use glasses to hold it back.

www.belezacouturestudio.com

Female Hair Loss Information

Female Hair Loss

 

The most common type of hair loss seen in women is Androgenetic Alopecia, also known as female pattern Alopecia or baldness. This is seen as hair thinning predominately over the top and sides of the head. It effects approximately one-third of all susceptible women.  It may begin as early as puberty but is most commonly seen after menopause.  It is normal to lose approximately 100-125 hairs per day. Fortunately, these hairs are replaced. True hair loss occurs when lost hairs do not re-grow or when the daily hair shed exceeds 125 hairs. Genetically, hair loss can come from either parent’s side of the family.

There are two different types of hair loss medically known as anagen effluvium and telogen effluvium. Anagen effluvium is generally due to internally administered medications, such as chemotherapy agents, which poison the growing hair follicle. Telogen effluvium is due to an increased number of hair follicles entering the resting stage.

The most common causes are: Physical Stress surgery, illness, anemia, and rapid weight loss. Emotional Stress mental illness, death of a family member. Thyroid abnormalities   Medications high doses of vitamin A, blood pressure medications, gout medications

The Growth and Development of Hair

Scalp hair provides no critical function for humans, but when excessive hair loss occurs, the psychological effects can be profound. Unfortunately, hair is not a permanent body part. Hair grows out of follicles located in the epidermis and dermis layers of the skin. At the base of each follicle is the derma papilla, containing nerves and blood vessels responsible for maintaining and continuing healthy hair growth. To form a new hair, a signal is sent to the immature cells in the bulb area of the follicle. The immature cells then migrate towards the papilla and are triggered to divide and mature. In approximately three months, a new hair develops and grows beyond the surface of the skin.

The hair’s growth cycle is divided into three stages: 1) Anagen Stage The growing or active phase that varies for each individual, lasting 2-6 years, growing 1/4 – 1/2 an inch per month. 2) Catagen Stage The regressive or resting period where there is no growth activity. As soon as the growth phase is completed, degeneration of the hair follicle begins. This stage lasts 1-2 weeks. 3) Telogen Stage During this phase, which lasts 5-6 weeks, the hair is shed and a new one begins to replace the lost hair and reenters the Anagen phase. Regrowth will continue as long as the papilla stays active and a healthy condition continues to exist.

Daily hair loss is a natural biological occurrence. Normal hair loss may be between 50 – 100 hairs per day. At any given time 90% of a healthy head of hair should be in the Anagen (growth) phase and 10% in the Catagen/Telogen phase. A normal head of hair consists of 100,000-150,000 hairs. If you are losing more than 100 hairs per day, this would be classified as excessive loss. Hair loss for six months is considered severe and may result in various forms of Alopecia, total or partial loss of scalp hair. The condition may be temporary or permanent. When the reasons and treatment for your hair loss are reversed or altered you should see the return of normal hair growth.

Factors Causing Hair Loss

Androgen Alopecia – This is the most common type of hair loss responsible for 85-90% of all male and female temporary or permanent Alopecia. Androgen Alopecia probably occurs to a degree in all adults sometime after puberty. Androgens are hormones present in men and women. Normally higher levels are indicated in males. These hormones develop masculine characteristics. The onset of male & female excessive hair loss is inherited, and the growth of susceptible hair follicles is negatively affected. Thus resulting in temporary or permanent baldness. Testosterone is converted to a powerful destructive androgen hormone, Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) when it reacts with the enzyme 5-Alpha Reductase. Androgenic hair loss will not occur in men or women without the presence of DHT. DHT binds to the hair follicle and a progressive follicular miniaturization begins producing a shorter anagen cycle, increasing the number of telogen hairs. Male Androgenic Alopecia may begin anytime after puberty. Females may experience the condition as early as their mid twenties. Seborrheic Alopecia - A normal supply of sebum from the sebaceous glands is necessary to give hair its pliability and softness. Excessive sebum production may oxidize in the hair follicle and impair the hair’s growth. Excessive sebum may produce an “androgenic ointment” containing DHT which can increase the tendency towards hair loss. This paste-like substance is an excellent breeding ground for bacteria and fungi. Alopecia Areata– This type of hair loss that is indicated initially by small circular patches but may progress to AIopecia Totalis where all of the hair on the scalp is lost. Alopecia Areata is usually associated with a deficiency in the immune system. A hypothyroid, other autoimmune diseases, and psychological problems may lead to this disorder. Telogen Effluvium Alopecia - This condition exists when more than 10% percent of the hair follicles progress to the Telogen (shedding) phase. Prolonged stressful situations, high fever, hormonal changes, and a wide variety of medications may contribute to this disorder. Telogen Effluvium normally occurs 3-6 months after childbirth and may last up to a year. Traction Alopecia - This type of hair loss often occurs as a result of hair styles and headwear that puts undue stress on a region of the scalp. Inadequate vascular circulation - A rich source of blood supply to the dermal papilla is essential for continued healthy hair growth. Blood is the source of nutrients and oxygen for hair cell production. During the Telogen phase, capillaries supplying essential growth elements to the hair follicle become inactive. Increasing microcirculation may lengthen the anagen (growth) phase producing longer, stronger & healthier hair. Nutritional Alopecia - Excessive hair loss is often observed in the malnourished. Deficiencies in zinc and iron, high intake of vitamin A, excessive dieting, or sudden weigh loss (bulimia or anorexia) often lead to this disorder. Dandruff, Psoriasis & Seborrheic Dermatitis – These are scalp disorders often associated with excessive hair loss. Trichotillomania If you pull out your hair, eyelashes, or eyebrows and have tried to stop but just can’t, you are not alone!  You may suffer from trichotillomania.  For more information please visit their website at www.trich.org   Vitamin E & Vitamin C are vital for a lifestyle of wellness both…. inside and outside the body. Vitamin E and Vitamin C are uniquely formulated with natural plant botanicals and rich emollients creating new performance and protection for hair, scalp, skin and the internal body. Pure fresh-dried vitamins become solutions for a wellness approach to beauty…inside and out.  Five reasons why Vitamin E & Vitamin C are beneficial to your hair, scalp & skin: Prevents and stops oxidation Stimulates collagen development Acidifies for pH balance Scavenges free radicals Normalizes natural exfoliation   www.belezacouturestudio.com

KEEP NATURAL HAIR STRAIGHT

RELAXED IN TRANSITION, NATURAL

Once you have three inches of new growth, train the hair to remain straight with the help of a ceramic ion flat iron and moisturizing styling products.

If you are growing out your relaxer, consider a sewn-in weave until you have enough new growth to train your hair.

Clients that won’t to avoid a reversion should try a Brazilian Keratin Straightening Treatment.

Call to inquire or for more information 919-484-0423

Www.essence.com

www.belezacouturestudio.com

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Stress & How It Affects Hair Loss

Stress And Hair Loss… Hair Loss And Stress, Are They Connected?

Research has shown that stress undoubtedly affects the hair cycle and that losing your hair can cause stress. However, which one triggers the other? Did the stress of meeting that deadline last month cause you to lose some hair, or was it the hair you noticed on your pillow last week that triggered a stress episode? In this article, I have discussed the effects of stress and hair loss, looking at both sides of the equation.

Does Stress Cause Hair Loss?
The exact role of stress as it relates to different types of alopecia is difficult to assess accurately. Under most circumstances, increased hair shedding occurs between 6 and 16 weeks after the trigger has occurred. But, most people attribute an increase in hair shedding to what happened yesterday or last week, not a couple of months ago. If your stress levels are ‘normal’ at the time you contemplate your thinning hair, you are unlikely to associate your problem with a stressful situation that occurred say 3 months before. However, although it is difficult to pinpoint a specific stress episode as the cause of hair loss, there is evidence that acute and/or chronic stress may precipitate certain hair loss conditions.

Genetic Hair Loss
Since male hormones trigger genetic hair loss, many researchers believe that stress can aggravate the condition because, during stressful episodes, the adrenal glands increase their output of certain hormones that can lead to the production of more testosterone, thus increasing dihydrotestosterone levels and potentially accelerating hair loss. Some researchers also believe that the skin becomes more sensitive to the effects of testosterone during stress, thus increasing the chances of hair loss.

Telogen Effluvium
Severe stress can also influence diffuse shedding of hair (telogen effluvium), though this condition tends to be reversible. One possible explanation for stress-induced telogen effluvium could be that the body’s uptake of glucose is increased during a stress episode, leaving less available for non-essential tissues, such as the hair, causing it to be shed prematurely. One study in Britain of 800 professional women who worked in a highly stressful environment backs up the link between stress and hair loss as it found that over 30% were experiencing hair loss.

Alopecia Areata
Alopecia areata, or “patchy” hair loss, has also been connected to stress episodes. One study showed that over 90% of patients with alopecia areata were under high levels of stress, though an additional study found that the stress was actually a result of the condition itself. As alopecia areata is believed to be partly a product of an auto-immune response, the stress influence on reducing the immune system is thought to be a factor in the condition.

Trichotillomania
Trichotillomania, the compulsive habit of repeatedly pulling the hair, is also associated with stress, as well as more severe psychological problems. Amongst other factors, it is stress that tends to be a very important influence in both the onset and continuation of the condition.

Does Hair Loss Cause Stress?

“I have no confidence in my appearance because of my hair loss.”
Bob, a 28 year old garage mechanic.

“Losing my hair has been the most disturbing event of my life.”
Debbie, a 23-year-old secretary.

Since hair is very important for an individual’s physical attractiveness (how others view you) and body image (how you view yourself), it follows that hair loss can affect a person’s self-image, self-esteem, and overall quality of life (your everyday life and outlook). As a result, people who are losing their hair tend to become very worried about the consequences. Many cases have been reported of people becoming introverted and withdrawn due to the worry of losing their hair. This has been confirmed by research studies among men and women who are losing their hair. Many participants reported that their lives had changed and their stress levels increased after they noticed a worsening of their hair quality/quantity, not before.

The manner in which people with genetic hair loss are affected by their condition is usually sex dependent. Women tend to be more ashamed, distressed, anxious and concerned about their hair loss; have lower self-esteem; and have more social problems than men with hair loss or women with normal amounts of hair. They also feel more uncomfortable in the presence of others. Studies of men with genetic hair loss are more conflicting. Some report minor social concerns but claim to maintain normal self-esteem and psychological profiles. Conversely, other studies have concluded that hair loss is indeed stressful to men, causing diminished feelings of attractiveness and social functioning; manifested by lower self-esteem and body-image; and increased stress. These psychological effects seem to be influenced by a person’s age, extent of hair loss, and marital status. Hair loss problems have been described in both sexes as symbolic for obtaining help for other underlying psychological or personal problems.

Overall, therefore, it seems that both sides have an excellent case. Stress can cause hair loss and hair loss can cause stress. So what should you do? Well, the most important thing initially is to find out why your hair is falling out by seeing a hair loss specialist. Besides treating the other causes of your hair loss; if stress is also a factor, either as a cause or a consequence, it is advisable to start a stress reduction program such as an exercise regimen and/or relaxation techniques. It might not cure your hair loss by itself, but it may help.