Category Archives: News

30Sep

Educator Spotlight: Maureen Fox-Meyer

Posted by Organic Expert at 16:06 | News, Stylist Spotlight | Leave a comment

Maureen Fox-Meyer

Changing Salons For The Better

As our tribe of passionate Holistic Hair Stylists continues to grow, we want you to get to know our educators! These are the leaders helping us pioneer the holistic hair revolution beyond the chair. As Educators, they help their fellow hair stylists gain knowledge and inspiration by teaching in-salon and online classes.

In the spotlight this month is Maureen Fox-Meyer. She owns The Change, an organic salon in Sartell, Minnesota.

What got you into the world of using healthier, holistic beauty products?

My journey into healthier products stems from my Dad passing away from pancreatic cancer. I was kind of lost and trying to find my path in life at that time. I got a Bachelor’s degree in vocal music and a minor in Psychology, but didn’t want to do music as my career anymore. So I had been cutting and coloring all my family and friend’s hair simply because I really enjoyed doing it as a hobby and seemed to have a knack for it. When my Dad got diagnosed, it really put things into perspective and I realized that the passionate career I was seeking was right there in front of me and all I needed to to was get my degree and get started.

Going through the process of my Dad’s cancer diagnosis and treatment, I started to realize just how important the things we use in and on our bodies really are. We did many natural treatments and dietary changes that really helped improved his quality of life and prolonged his time here with us. It wasn’t a fun or easy time in my life, but without it I wouldn’t be the person I am today.

I made a promise to myself before I even started beauty school that my goal was to start the most natural and non-toxic salon that I possibly could. At the time, I didn’t know if products like Oway even existed, but I was determined to find the best thing out there.

I graduated beauty school in the spring of 2008 and opened The Change, An Organic Hair Salon in the fall of 2013. I tried many product lines in my search of the best non-toxic color line and now am very happy with the results and healthy hair I now get with Oway!

Who has inspired you to be an educator?

There have been a number of great educators in my life that made me see how fulfilling it is to share your passion with others. My voice teacher, Mitra Sadeghpour, was really inspirational to me because she was always positive and motivating. She saw the potential in me and made me believe it for myself.

Cristina Hupe was my haircutting instructor and friend (we are about the same age but she did hair school first and I went to a 4 year college first). She taught me to be very exacting in my expectations for what students can achieve and to not settle for good enough, when you know they can do great things. Finally, my mother was always teaching me about everything around from rock formations to birds to how to make a million crafts and science experiments. She really taught me to love learning and that there is wonder and beauty in everything and everyone.

In addition to being paid to do what you love, how else has your hair life created value to you?

Through all the things I have tried to do for work (music, realtor, retail sales, flooring sales, educator, etc.) I find that the thing that gives me the most satisfaction is being able to use my creativity and talents to make people’s lives better. I get that everyday in this profession.

I get to use my knowledge, help other stylists, teach clients, be creative and get direct feedback about how I am making everyone feel better about themselves which can then lead them to making other people feel good, too.

Seeing the smile on my client’s face as they leave is one of the best compliments I could ever receive.

What is one of your favorite looks you have created with Oway and what products were used?

I have done a lot of transformations with Oway that really excite me. The latest work of love that I created was on a woman who came in for a color correction. She had never been in to our salon before and had 3 colors going on. Her base was a grown out 2 inches of a neutral level 9, the mid lengths were a level 7 gold that was so heavy it was practically copper, and her ombré ends were very golden level 10.

Her hair strength was good, but needing some serious moisture. We decided on a heavy highlight lowlight because she wanted dimension and depth for fall. My formula was 20 volume hbleach for the highlight that I painted down to where the ombré highlights started, the lowlight I used from root to tip; it was 28 grams 4.0+ 3 grams 0.7 9 volume htone. I used a heavy natural looking foil pattern and processed for 30 minutes.

I shampooed her with hbalance shampoo, rinsed and then I applied hmilk and left it on for 5 minutes while I mixed up a toner. I used 20g 11.17+ 20g 10.1 9 volume htone. After rinsing the hmilk from her hair it was a much better moisture content so the toner could take more evenly. I put the toner on towel dried hair and let it process for 6 minutes before rinsing, shampooed again with hbalance shampoo and finished with hbalance mask. To finish I styled her with glossy nectar and frozen glaze cocktailed together, blow dried and loosely curled.

Which styling tool/products are your best friends?

My number one product is Glossy Nectar. I use it on everybody! It gives me such shine and moisture while also protecting the hair from damage. I don’t really enjoy stickiness or overusing products on hair that I have just colored, so I tend to be a minimalist with products. Plus, clients get overwhelmed if you use more than 3 stylers on them!

I have naturally fine, curly hair and I like to wear it natural a lot- so for myself I can’t live without boho pomade. It gives you definition, takes down frizz, but adds volume all in one product. It’s great for second or even third day curls! At first the texture is a little odd, but just ignore that and scrunch it in- you can’t go wrong.

As far as tools go, at the salon, we have all recently fallen in love with the Epic Professional Wet brush-pro Quick Dry Brush. Its a vented detangling brush that cuts down your blow-dry time on those long haired clients that take forever to dry. It is curved to it grab more hair and is gentle to the scalp.

What is your favorite type of client?

My favorite kind of client is someone who has had trouble finding the right stylist, is possibly disheartened with our profession or needs a serious color correction. I love the process of winning their trust and showing them that many of us do really know what we are doing and that they can have amazing hair again! The transformation in their attitudes and self-esteem really give me a sense of how I have an impact on a person’s life simply by showing them the beauty they already possess and enhancing that for them.

If you could makeover a celebrity, who would it be and how would you do it?

A celebrity I would love to make over is Miley Cyrus. She wants to be bold and edgy but it comes off harsh and unpolished. I like her blonde but would like to soften it with some peaches and pinks toward her base and give her a nice shadow root with a 8.1 brushed out over the blondes. The peach I would make with 9.43+ 9.0+ 0.6 and the pink 11.17+ 0.6. That would still give her a fun and bold image, but be more fitting to her skin tone.

Tell us what you love about educating others.

I love educating others because I believe that everyone should know the options available to them. I like to show other stylists what is possible and watch the process of discovery in them. Many people are so used to the ammonia-based systems that they are very wary about things that are new and different. I like to gently show them what can be and let them see it for themselves.

My salon’s name and motto is based on “Be the change you wish to see in the world” – Mahatma Ghandi. I believe that by using products that hold the client, the stylist and nature in the highest regard, we really can change the world.

Tags: Educator Spotlight, Oway, Stylist Spotlight

21Jul

Even Wal-Mart Is Demanding Safer Beauty Products – Shouldn’t You?

Posted by Organic Expert at 22:25 | News, Organic-Ingredients | 1 Comment

When a common consumer store like Wal-Mart is demanding safer beauty products, you know times are a-changin’ and for the better!

Wal-Mart has asked their suppliers to remove 8 chemicals believed to have “certain properties that can affect human health or the environment.” This request is all too telling and represents a new wave in clean beauty – one we’ve been crusading for since 2001!

Let’s explore which harmful chemicals made the list!

Wal-Mart Eliminates 8 Controversial Chemicals From Products

Propylparaben – an inexpensive preservative found in many shampoos, conditioners and personal care products.

Butylparaben – another type of inexpensive preservative commonly found in cosmetics.

In 2008, a study on women with breast cancer found parabens in 98% of breast tissue tested. Parabens are thought to mimic estrogen in the human body, causing an imbalance of hormones and damage to the human endocrine system.

Diethyl phthalate – an ingredient used to increase flexibility of plastic bottles.

Dibutyl phthalate – another plasticizer used to make plastic bottles more flexible.

Just like parabens, phthalates are known human endocrine disruptors. What’s worse? Many of your current plastic shampoo and conditioner bottles are made with these harmful chemicals. Phthalates leach estrogen-mimickers into your products, which are readily absorbed by your body when applied to the skin or scalp.

Formaldehyde – recognized as a known human carcinogen (cancer-causing ingredient) by WHO (World Health Organization) and IARC (International Agency For Research on Cancer). Remember all of the controversy surrounding keratin treatments using formaldehyde as an active ingredient? Let’s make sure that stays out of our products.

Triclosan – a synthetic chemical used in shampoos and conditioners as an anti-bacterial agent. Just like phthalates and parabens, this ingredient also disrupts the delicate hormone balance of humans.

Toluene – a colorless liquid found in nail polish and fragrance that has been linked to nervous system damage.

How did Wal-Mart choose which toxic ingredients to AVOID?

The Environmental Defense Fund advised them to identify harmful chemicals that had significant science backing.

Not only is Wal-Mart rewarding those who remove these chemicals from their products, they are requiring transparency. For those companies refusing to eradicate these targeted chemicals, they will be forced to add them to their warning labels by 2018.

Note: Since phthalates are not in the product itself (but rather the plastic container), many companies get away without listing them in their ingredients list.

Luckily, that’s all about to change.

While this is a giant leap in the right direction, we shouldn’t stop here. Keep demanding safer products and more transparency from these companies.

Especially in the professional beauty industry, as our vertical is even less regulated than the consumer market.

Tell us what other ingredients you hope get exposed next in the comments!

Tags: Ingredients, Simply Organic Beauty Blog For Hair Stylists & Organic salons

19Jul

Oway Stylist Spotlight: Jenn Kidd

Posted by Organic Expert at 20:29 | News, Oway | Leave a comment

At Simply Organic Beauty, we strive to create a community of Holistic Hair Stylists who can share their passion, experience, and endless creativity.

Once a month we put the spotlight on one of our community members and let them share their story with you.

Our July 2016 Oway Hair Colorist is Jenn Kidd! She’s a Hair Stylist at Apotheclaire Salon in Akron, Ohio – where they take an eco-responsible approach to hair, beauty and personal care. Learn more about Jenn in our exclusive interview with her below!

Get to know Jenn!

How did you become interested in becoming an organic hair colorist?

Quite simply, I became sick.

I developed serious allergies in the salon that were escalating into other symptoms. After years of trying everything, including using steroids on my hands every night and covering them with gloves, I knew it was time to make some changes. Because of the severity of my sensitivities, I knew my only two options were to find a space where I was in complete control of what was being used or to quit doing hair.

That is how Apotheclaire came to be and that is how I discovered Oway. I was immediately drawn to Oway because of the packaging, let’s be honest – it’s fantastic. I did lots of due diligence and research and testing of other “organic hair color” lines. None of them fit what we were looking for like Oway did.

On a side note – I used to have to take a prescription antihistamine on a daily basis to be able to work. I have not had to take one since making the switch!

You have posted some beautiful balayage work. Do you have any tips or tricks for using Hbleach when lightening? Do you have some “go to” Hcolor formulas for when you’re toning?

Thank you! I am crazy about hbleach. I love the consistency of it and how soft in both color and feel the results are. I am a cautious bleacher and I refuse to compromise anyone’s hair, ever. Using hbleach allows me to push the lightening process a little bit further without the need of any -plex products, knowing how gentle the process is.

When doing balayage, I always like to keep a dry tint brush on my tray and use it at an angle to diffuse and blend any strong lines. This gives extra control and adds extra detailing.

I’m not finding toners as necessary for correcting as much as I am loving the way they can enhance. I have always loved a warm / cool balance with hair color and the .31 series provides perfect tone for that dimension!

Oway has an extensive retail line. Can you tell us your top three picks?

Glamshine Cloud– I spray it on my hands to put in the hair and it gives me extra control over placement.
Flux Potion – That is our swiss army knife of products at the shop.
Scuplting Mist – We do not use aerosols in the shop. So thankful for this non-aerosol gem

Do you have any predictions for 2016 Fall Trends in hair color and hair style?

Always! I think that people are looking for new ways to change up their look with ease. Playing with texture will be huge coming into the fall, on both short and long hair. There are a million ways to get great texture without using heat tools and I love sharing them with clients.

Long hair? Sleep in a braid or twist hair into a bun before going to sleep. Wake up and shake it out. Throw some boho pomade in there and voila! Playing with an extreme side part or adding in vintage accessories are also a fun way to change it up.

I believe color is going to start shying away from all of the bold, direct dyes and steer more towards emulating nature. More gingers, softer blondes and dimensional browns with both warm and cool tones combined. Warm for the winter and cool in the summer!

As a member of our Oway Holistic Hair Stylist Forum Group on Facebook, can you tell us how it has helped or benefited you with your craft?

It has been a great tool to help myself and my co-stylist learn the line. I love that we have such a valuable real-life, in-salon resource to look at and learn from. I’ve been doing this for ten years and switching color lines was intimidating, no matter how well I knew color. I called Rebecca Gregory one day when I was especially freaking out and she talked me through it. The Facebook group and technical support offered by Simply Organic has been priceless. We look at it and are inspired by everyone’s work on a daily basis!

How does your personal style influence your work on clients?

I wear what I want without ever giving a thought to what others will think of my style, because I like it. I truly believe that if you feel great, you can pull anything off with your look. I am not a fan of the “if you’re this size you can’t have short hair” or “if you’re this age you can’t have long hair” rules that some people believe. I hope that I can inspire people to be a little more carefree and wear whatever makes them feel their best!

Check out Jenn's work with Oway!

Join Jenn and other like-minded stylists in our Organic Way Holistic Hair Colorist Group here!

Tags: Jenn Kidd, Oway, Oway Reviews, Oway Stylist Spotlight, Stylist Spotlight

29Jun

Organic Way Texture Specialist: Jennea Dorsey-Gordley

Posted by Organic Expert at 16:29 | News, Oway | Leave a comment

Jennea Dorsey-Gordley

Meet our new Texture Specialist!

We’re ecstatic to introduce you to Simply Organic Educator, Jennea Dorsey-Gordley!

She brings to us years of experience working with textured hair, and more importantly, how to achieve desired results with non-toxic, organic hair products.

She takes a holistic approach to beauty and wellness, so whether she’s relaxing with Oway’s Waveshaper or teaching clients how to embrace their natural curl, Jennea is our go-to Textured Hair Expert!

Get to know Jennea below!

Introduce yourself! What should everyone know about you?

My name is Jennea Dorsey-Gordley (pronounced Jen’ ay). As a young adult, I started out in corporate America in the fields of Finance and Property Management. After the recession in 2007/2008, I began to explore my childhood passion to open a Wellness Center and Spa. I attended The Baltimore School of Massage and Aveda Fredric’s Institute in Cincinnati. I had been styling hair for family and friends since junior high. At that time, I didn’t really appreciate my gift as a stylist. Both of my parents were educators, but I couldn’t see myself teaching until I got married and raised a family.

Later as an adult, I had the opportunity to work in a salon that specialized in texture in the Washington DC Metropolitan area. I had the pleasure of cutting the locs of Ms. Iyanla Vanzant and styling hundreds of others.

Gaining that experience led me to understand that HAIR was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. It was the first time in my life where I awakened daily EXCITED to go to work!

As Simply Organic Beauty’s new Organic Way Texture Specialist, what do you hope to accomplish?

My hope is to help other stylists feel more comfortable when it comes to servicing the textured client. For the last decade or so, I have witnessed a myriad of textured consumers finding solutions to service themselves. They have become very accustomed to using social media as a resource, (which led many to become product junkies). As my research and analysis continued, I discovered that textured consumers lost trust in the professional cosmetologist.

So, my goal is not only to help give our industry a voice when it comes to texture, but also to help usher in a healthier line of product that is truly organic.

Why is introducing the textured hair world to organic, non-toxic products important to the community?

First off, let me say that hair textured clients come in all shades and nationalities, (some in European cultures as well). In my research, I have found that when is comes to Afro-Decentians, there is a higher rate of various types of cancers.

Personally, I have known two stylists that have died of lung cancer, and neither were smokers. I have known others to have died from very aggressive breast, ovarian and cervical cancers, stylists and consumers alike.

After being raised in a holistic household, and my training in massage therapy, I’ve learned how important it is not to put anything on or in your body that you cannot pronounce. That foundation has led me to the road of wanting others to become more aware of harmful ingredients.

Let’s be frank. Chemicals in salons are a big issue, but especially when it comes to managing textured hair. What myths about organic hair products do you hope to dispel?

Thats a great question, because up until I found OWAY, I was very skeptical about other products out there that claimed to be ‘natural’ relaxers. In fact, when I researched some of those products, I found that they were either not totally natural and/or gave unpleasant ongoing results that consumers were not happy with.

Why Oway? Aren’t there a million organic beauty brands to choose from? What about their philosophy and products makes them great for textured hair?

Yes, there are countless products on the market aforementioned above when it pertains to ‘product junkying’ consumers. There are so many people that have spent thousands of dollars on products searching for the perfect formula without professional guidance.

This is the FIRST line that met my approval that was high quality, farm to chair ingredients and the high-end sleek look I was looking for in comparison to some other big names in the industry. Its a well thought out line!

So far, I am happy to see that they have pretty much thought of every texture in mind when it comes to hair care.

I want to help represent a brand/ product that truly cares about the integrity of the market they serve. If you are marketing an organic line, all of its products should be 100% organic…and OWAY has accomplished that mission!

Which Oway products are your favorite for creating certain looks and why?

Right now, I am really loving the Silk N Glow line and combining Precious Wax and Boho Pomade for twists and loc maintenance. Glossy Nectar and Silk N Glow Serum is my best friend for scalp care on some my clients that have a hard time retaining moisture.

If you could give one piece of advice to those wishing to learn more about textured hair and organic beauty what would you say?

I would tell them to really research ingredients thoroughly before trying/buying. Also, to come to one of my classes to see how best to consult with the textured client, in addition to learning some styling techniques using OWay. Its important to have an open mind and understand that having more experience with highly textured hair is more fun to explore and keeps you fresh!

Tags: education, Educator Spotlight, Oway, Simply Organic Beauty Blog For Hair Stylists & Organic salons

24Jun

O&M Stylist Spotlight: Courtney Curtis

Posted by Organic Expert at 17:00 | News, Original & Mineral | Leave a comment

Courtney Curtis

Let’s give big Internet high-fives to our June 2016’s Stylist of the Month: Courtney Curtis!

She’s always catching our eye with her gorgeous blondes and creative fashion colors, but this young, talented Hair Stylist is wise beyond her years. In this month’s interview, she not only shares some of her favorite Original & Mineral products, but also a valuable perspective on chemicals in the beauty industry.

As always, the answer is knowledge, education and courage!

Check out Courtney's interview below!

1) Tell us about yourself! How long have you been a Hair Stylist / where do you work?

I am 22 years old and I have been doing hair for 4 years. I work at a salon in St George Utah called Destinations Organic Salon and Spa. It’s the only organic salon in our area!

2) Why clean, non-toxic hair color from O&M? Why do you think this is important for the industry?

When I worked at my old salon I learned a lot about what’s in hair color and obviously when you start to learn about what’s going into them and getting on your skin and on your clients skin it’s kind of scary! When I found this salon I figured if I’m going to do this the rest of my life I need to do it with something that won’t hurt me or my clients. And the more I’ve learned the more and more passionate I’ve became about it. I will never go back!

Working in an all organic salon I have heard some crazy stories about how non organic hair product has had long term effects. I’ve heard about clients and hairstylist BOTH being affected.

It’s important for the industry because obviously hair stylist can’t keep putting these bad toxins in our body and we shouldn’t be doing that to our clients either if we are we are doing them a disservice. The industry will not change unless hair stylist get on board and make them change! We have the right to safe product! (though we’ve noticed it’s been VERY hard to make stylist switch) it’s out salons goal to educate everyone and introduce them to a way better way!

3) What’s your favorite O&M styling product or cocktail?

I’m REALLY in love with Project Sukuroi and Style Guru! Sukuroi adds the perfect amount of shine moisture without getting to heavy plus it smells amazing. And style guru gives a perfect base to my blowouts.

4) What is your favorite feature in the O&M product lineup?

I’m a blonde and I love Blondes so the conquer blonde is one of the best purple shampoos I’ve ever used!

5) You’ve done some beautiful fashion colors with O&M. Do you have any tips for your fellow stylists to achieve their best fashion color yet?

With fashion colors or any color is don’t rush it, don’t compromise the hair trying to get there. Take your time and really study your color theory and color wheel and practice, practice and keep pushing yourself!

6) What’s your favorite quote to live by?

“Decisions Determine Destiny.”

Check out Courtney's work with O&M!

Join Courtney and other like-minded stylists in our O&M Hair Color Forum here!

Tags: o&m, Original & Mineral, Simply Organic Beauty Blog For Hair Stylists & Organic salons, Stylist Spotlight

09Jun

Educator Spotlight: April Gumbert

Posted by Organic Expert at 18:16 | News, Oway, Simply Organic Blog | Leave a comment

April Gumbert

Simply Organic Education

We’re ecstatic to introduce you to Simply Organic Educator, April Gumbert! She’ll be teaching our Oway Certification Class in Charlotte, NC on June 12th, and we wanted you to learn all about her expertise and passion for professional organic beauty.

Tell us about yourself! How long have you been in the beauty industry?

I have been in the industry for almost 30 years now, even though saying that is hard to believe.I have never gotten tired of this business of beauty; in fact my passion for it is even greater than it was when I first began.

What do you love most about working in our industry?

One thing that I love about this industry is that there is room for the artistic and the mathematical parts of my brain to work in harmony. I see many people who have a flair for the artistic side of the work. They envision and create from their heart. Then there are those whoare rule followers, the ones who read all the manufacturer’s directions and weigh and measure all of their color formulas. Happily, I am both. I combine the rules with the passion and creativity to invent something new each day!

How would you explain your own personal style?

Marrying my two sides together is what results in my own style. I would consider both my personal and professional/work style to be a combination of fun and classic getting along nicely. I love taking a solid classic style and adding a bit of flair to set it apart. A fun, surprising element thrown in the mix is always a good thing. I think that starting with something timeless and bringing in something “fresh and now” is the best of both worlds.

How do you create your best work?

My best work is produced when I take the time needed to know and understand my guests and can make him or her feel their absolute best. When I listen and learn what is important to them I am doing my best work. I could do what I may think is my best work ever, but if my guests aren’t happy with the results, then I haven’t done my job.

Who were/are your mentors?

Many years ago when I went to my first hair show, my professional world changed. I loved watching these people on stage and leading the classrooms who were sharing their ideas and passions with the rest of us. Even now, one of my favorite things to do is to take classes. I have been honored to learn from people like John and Suzanne Chadwick and Martin Parsons while taking classes and hands-on workshops with them.

Then I can’t wait to use and share these ideas with my guests and co-workers. This flowed naturally into becoming an educator. I have been an educator in a variety of capacities; in my own salon, in beauty schools, in front of small to medium sized groups, and now with Simply Organic Beauty assisting and leading groups of organic-minded stylists to learn more about healthy hair color options with Oway!

Why are you excited to be a Simply Organic Educator?

I firmly believe that we can change this industry for the better by educating stylists on options that are better for themselves, their work and their guests. Many stylists and consumers still aren’t even aware that they have such options. If I can have even a small impact on this industry of ours by sharing holistic hairstyling, then I will have been rewarded for my efforts!

Tags: education, Educator Spotlight, Simply Organic Education

25May

Oway Stylist Spotlight: Serena Jarvis

Posted by Organic Expert at 18:29 | News, Oway | Leave a comment

Serena Jarvis

Our May 2016 Organic Way Hair Colorist is Serena Jarvis!

Not only is Serena a certified Organic Hair Colorist, but an inspiring young entrepreneur who knew from a very young age what she was destined for! Below you’ll learn about Serena and why she chooses the Organic Way!

Get to know Serena!

Tell us about yourself! How many years have you been a Stylist?

Last year, I decided to make a big leap and open my own business: Serena Rose Styles.

The passion and love I have for my craft has carried over into the business side of things too. It is hard to believe that I started working for a beauty salon when I was 14, and now I am an entrepreneur! Before I finished high school, I started an apprenticeship and embarked on a career path that has groomed me for the past 11 years into where I am today!

Now, I am a certified organic hairstylist, an up-do’s specialist, an award winning make-up artist, and a beauty coach!

What prompted you to adopt non-toxic, organic salon products?

My preference to obtain a healthy lifestyle started with the choice to become vegetarian at the age of 12. From there, my awareness and desire to better myself grew. The change to non-toxic, organic salon products was natural and effortless! The healthier option, is always the route I choose to take!

What’s your favorite Oway product?

One would think this question would be the easiest to answer, however, I pondered this one the longest!

If I HAD to pick one, I would say Glamshine Cloud is my favorite Oway product. I use it on every person before they leave my chair, and utilize it every weekend during wedding season! It steps up every look and each color shade with a few simple spritz’s!

Why Oway? What about their philosophy and products make it the perfect fit for Serena Rose Styles?

Honestly, I didn’t realize how good of a decision I was making when I chose Oway!

There were so many decisions to be made, and I knew this was one that would shape the rest of my business. Customer service and educating my clients, are 2 things that I pride myself in. They also are 2 (of the many) things that Oway is best at! Patricia (my representative) was so kind, informative, patient, understanding, and happy to be serving me – she sold me on the line! Later, I learned how deeply the company cares for it’s patrons and the environment, without jeopardizing the quality of the product!

In my experience, Oway’s philosophy and products trump all other lines out there and every stylist should be using them!

Do you have any go-to formulas or tips you can give new Oway users?

We all have clients that ask for highlights when they are not booked for them, and with summer approaching everyone wants to ‘be a bit lighter’ before the season starts! I have found a fun and easy way to satisfy customers that takes NO EXTRA TIME!

Pop in a few highlights on top, and pull through the ends (surrounding the highlights and elsewhere) 50% 0.0 and 50% 8.1 or 9.1 with 9V or 20V. Every single person has left happy!

What’s your life quote?

You can only change yourself!

Check out Serena's work with Oway!

Join Serena and other like-minded stylists in our Organic Way Holistic Hair Colorist Group here!

Tags: Oway, Simply Organic Beauty Blog For Hair Stylists & Organic salons, Stylist Spotlight

13Apr

Oway Organic Stylist Spotlight: Kaila Ward

Posted by Organic Expert at 18:42 | News, Oway | Leave a comment

Kaila Ward

Kaila Ward is Oway Colorist of the Month for April 2016!

She has been sharing everything from subtle balayage to bold fashion shades in our Oway Holistic Stylist Forum. She has even shared her fun updos and styles created with Oway’s styling range.

Obviously, we had to interview her to find out more about how Kaila became an organic hair stylist and what her favorite formulas are. Below she shares her story with us and some pictures of her awesome work!

Get to know Kaila!

How did you become interested in organic hair color?

I think it started when I became more aware of the food I was consuming and understanding the benefits of putting good food in my body versus the dangers of consuming bad food with harmful chemicals. That journey quickly led to the products I was using and being exposed to on a daily basis. The biggest one being a chemical service.
And not just for me, but for my clients, as well. I got to a point where I had had enough of the chemical burns in my nose and difficulty breathing during a color service that I finally switched entirely to a cleaner line and never looked back!

We’re loving the hairstyles you share as well, from subtle waves to braids and updos. What are your favorite Oway products to create these fun looks?

Sea Salt Spray is my ultimate go-to to add the texture I need for waves. And finishing those styles off with the Sculpting Mist…it’s perfection.
For my braids and updos I am forever hooked on Precious Wax! It allows me to have flexibility and slip when styling while also taming the fly aways without making the hair greasy. It’s great to be able to use products that not only contain amazing ingredients but actually work!

We’ve seen you post some great balayage looks. Do you have any tips for using the Hbleach butter lightener?

I’ve been using the suggested 1:2 ratio (lightener to developer), and it’s been great for free hand painting and inside foils. It coats every part of the hair, so I never worry about spots.

Do you have any frequently used or favorite formulas you have done that you would like to share?

Well, who doesn’t love 11.17 with 9 vol to tone with? Am I right? Seriously, that’s my absolute favorite when toning blonde hair to cancel out that yellow and make it nice and cool.
I recently tested out Hnectar on myself. My natural level is a 6. I used equal parts of 5.0 and 7.35 with 9 volume for about 20-25 minutes. I can’t tell you how many compliments I got on the color and shine. It was the perfect “brunette”. I will definitely be using that formula on myself again and clients.

What advice do you have for hairstylists that are new to Organic Way hair color?

Just jump right in! The benefits out way all the hesitation or fears you might have of trying something new. And the amount of support and passion that everyone has using it is overwhelmingly awesome! I can’t even express how much richer the experience of using Oway has been with people behind it that believe in it so much. Not to mention the color line is just down right amazing. I feel like I found my color line soul mate.

Check out Kaila's work with Organic Way Color + Styling!

Join Kaila and other like-minded stylists in our Organic Way Holistic Hair Colorist Group here!

Tags: Kaila Ward, Oway, Simply Organic Beauty Blog For Hair Stylists & Organic salons, Stylist Spotlight

07Apr

Secrets from the Garden Party: Spring 2016 Collection with American Salon

Posted by Organic Expert at 16:51 | Articles, News, Oway, Simply Organic Blog | Leave a comment

american-salon_simply-organic-beauty-collection

To kickoff Earth Month, we’re couldn’t be more excited to share our Spring 2016 Collection: Garden Party. These captivating photos by Robert Lynden, grace the cover and inside pages of American Salon Magazine. The collection was completely inspired by our newest line and partners in the professional organic beauty movement, Organic Way (Oway).

“From Oway’s beautiful biodynamic botanicals to their unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability – these were just some ofthe values that helped guide our creative vision for the shoot,” says our Education Director, Rebecca Gregory.

“We wanted to show non-toxic, organic products are both effective for your every day client and even on set of major photoshoots and TV productions. We also wanted to show off the versatility of the line, by embracing different hair textures,” continues Jennifer Andrews, our Creative Director. “We hope you enjoy the collection and are inspired by the products and company as much as we are.”

The Cover

To create these voluminous, spring happy curls, Rebecca set the hair on the smallest iron available from CoCr8 – think of a pin afro. She used Sculpting Mist, Oway’s strong hold, eco-hair spray to create her hard-hold set, while keeping the volume inside and around the root.

The hair was then heavily backcombed with a few bits and pieces allowed to escape around the face. Finished off with Glameshine Cloud Spray on the ends for a little sheen and shine.

Free Spirit

To create these tousled waves, Jennifer looked to Oway’s Flux Potion. It’s a fabulous alternative to mousse prior to blow drying to create a full, flexible style.

She added shine, while sealing split ends with Nurturing Drops. A highly concentrated styling and restorative serum made with organic black quinoa and fair trade aamla.

Age of Innocence

For texture and volume, Jennifer looked to Oway’s Sea Salt Spray. It’s a fabulous texturizer made with Balinese Sea Salt and pure essential oils for anyone who doesn’t like a structured blowout. She used it to add a little “grit” to the hair before crimping it all over.

The waves were then brushed out, and she pinned the hair back using Sculpting Mist, which actually treats and moisturizes the hair, while holding it in place

Sexy, Sustainable Waves

The key to creating this look was Oway’s Glossy Nectar. All of Oway’s products are made with 100% pure essential oils, biodynamic and organic botanicals, as well as fair trade ingredients. Jennifer worked in this restorative serum from roots to ends to give the hair polished appearance before locking it in with Sculpting Mist.

Sculpting Mist is a non-aerosol, eco-friendly hair spray that truly delivers without adversely affecting the environment or health of the stylist and client.

Wild Flower Child

To create this maxed-out curl that looks healthy and hydrated, Jennifer once again looked to Glossy Nectar to get the job done. This product actually penetrated the cuticle to repair, strengthen and hydrate even the most unruly strands from the inside out.

Before using a double-barrel curling iron iron to set the small curls, she applied Oway’s Thermal Stress Protector. It’s a medium-hold, heat protection spray that guards the cuticle up to an astounding 437 degrees Fahrenheit.

After finger coming the curls, she applied Scuplting Mist to set the style.

Waves of Eco Beauty

For these glamorous waves, Rebecca applied Flux Potion before blow drying the hair. Sculpting Mist provided the support she needed to hold a set, which was created with a medium-barrel curling iron.

After, she used her fingers to “brush out” the curls, and applied Glamshine Clould Spray. This high shine, finishing spray adds lightweight moisture and reflective properties without weighing the hair down.

Go Behind the Scenes at the Garden Party shoot

Thank you to the American Salon team for providing the video and support to make all of this possible.

Tags: American Salon, Garden Party, Oway, Simply Organic Beauty Blog For Hair Stylists & Organic salons

09Mar

O&M Stylist Spotlight: Meredith Johnson

Posted by Organic Expert at 18:40 | News, Original & Mineral | 2 Comments

Meredith Johnson

For the month of March the Spotlight is on Meredith Johnson, congratulations!

She is the newest O&M Colorist of the month. She has been sharing some killer fashion shades that she created and we just couldn’t get enough! Below we interviewed her on her O&M journey and where she plans to go next.

Don’t forget to take a look at her gorgeous work at the bottom, you might just find some spring inspiration!

Get to know Meredith!

In the world of non toxic hair color what about O&M CCT stands out to you?

O&M stands out because it’s a very wide range of tones, the possibilities are endless and that’s exactly what the stylist needs in this creative color era.

Do you have any tips or tricks you could give to a new O&M stylist?

I myself am fairly new to O&M , I would say the color chart is key. Understanding the undertones and using them to your advantage will guarantee success.

Also, O&M tends to look dark when processing, do not feel fearful and rinse before the recommended processing time has been fulfilled .

Do you have any favorite styling products?

My favorite product is the O&M Surf Bomb.

Once I’ve curled the hair in a wave pattern, I let the curls cool, then I tousle them and spray the Surf Bomb simultaneously to create the perfect beachy look.

Your work is flawless! Where do you find inspiration for these beautiful fashion shades and do you have any favorite O&M colors or formulations?

That’s the compliment all stylists want to hear but never think we deserve. Thank you so much.
I could say I draw most of my inspiration from nature, which is true, but my clients inspire me more than anything else.

Their individual beauty, personalities, and triumphs through life give me all the inspiration I think I’ll ever need.
My absolute favorite in the O&M line right now are the Pearl tones .

For example, 8/81 + 9/8 + 10/16 is the perfect toner for a pearlescent blonde.

What color trends do you foresee for spring 2016?

2016 is already a rebellious year in the hair world. Playing with warm and cool tones in a way that they compliment each-other without clashing. Creating fantasy colors at every level, fun colors aren’t just for blondes anymore .

Check out Meredith's work with O&M!

You have been awesome with sharing your work in the online forum, what about the online community do you enjoy the most?

I love the online forum! It is vital for stylists to be able to communicate, formulate and problem solve together. The O&M forum gives us a fun, judgement free zone to do just that.

Join Meredith and other like-minded stylists in the O&M Hair Color Forum here!

Tags: o&m, Original & Mineral, Simply Organic Beauty Blog For Hair Stylists & Organic salons, Stylist Spotlight