Blogs
Brassy Blonde Hair: Why it Happens & How to Fix it
If you’ve ever lightened your hair past a certain level, it’s likely you’ve encountered the “brass effect”. In fact, unwanted yellow, coppery or orange tones in lightened hair is one of the most common issues that sends clients crying to their colorists. While most of us have experienced brassy hair at one time or another, most of us don’t know what causes those pesky yellow, coppery tones to appear or how to get rid of them. While a booking an appointment at the salon is the best way to counteract the brass effect, there are some measures that you can take at home to keep it from happening.
Learn more
HELP! I overused my purple shampoo!
If you have cool-toned blonde hair, chances are your stylist sent you home with silver shine to help neutralize brass. While purple shampoo can do wonders for keeping cool tones in hair, it is possible to have too much of a good thing. So, what do you do when you’ve used too much purple shampoo? If you don’t have any underlying brassiness in your hair, there is nothing for the purple pigment to counteract—which will leave your hair looking purple. Tinted shampoo is not preventative, so feel free to use it when you see yellow tones start to appear in your hair (typically 1-2 weeks after your color service)
Learn more
Which Whipped Cream is Right for You?
Everyone loves a little something sweet, which is probably why our most decadent leave-in conditioner is so popular! The main reason why milk_shake Whipped Cream leave-in conditioners are always in demand is because they are so versatile. Whatever your hair type or texture, whipped cream will leave it softer, shinier, more manageable, and thoroughly hydrated. But that’s not all there is to love. If you’ve already determined that whipped cream is the right leave-in conditioner for you, the next step is to pick a “flavor” Depending on your hair’s specific needs and the look you are going for, you may want to go with a specific formula. Consider this your guide to choosing the right whipped cream for you.
Learn more
How to protect your blonde hair from turning green in the pool
Does blonde hair turn green in the pool? Yes and no. Contrary to popular belief, chlorine is not the culprit when it comes to blonde hair turning greenish after a swim. The single best thing that you can do for your hair after swimming is to use a deep cleansing shampoo. The combination of sun and salt is like a one-two punch to your hair’s hydration. Cleanse with Deep Cleansing Shampoo Moisturize with Sun & More Beauty Mask Protect with Sun & More Incredible milk
Learn more
Are sulfates and silicones really bad for your hair?
The world of beauty product ingredients is a lot like Hollywood—not all press is good press. Sulfates, silicones and sodium have all gotten a bad rap—but is it really that simple? Let’s take a closer look at t shampoo and how these ingredients work. What is shampoo? Simply put, shampoo is a cleanser that is specially formulated to be used on hair. Just like how your body wash is different from your face cleanser (hopefully), shampoo has a formula all its own. Shampoo was developed to remove dirt, environmental contaminants and sebum from the hair shaft and scalp. There are thousands if not millions of different ingredient combinations for shampoo, with some getting their fair share of bad press. Controversial Shampoo Ingredients Unless you’re using a shampoo bar, the number one ingredient listed on most shampoos is water. One important thing to note about shampoo ingredients is that they are typically listed in order of concentration. If water is listed first, it’s likely that it is the highest percentage ingredient in your shampoo. Sulfates are another common ingredient in shampoos and arguably the biggest current baddie. However, if you enjoy a nice, foamy lather in your shampoo then you have sulfates to thank for that. There are many different types of sulfates, but some of the most commonly used in shampoo are ammonium lauryl sulfate, sodium laureth sulfate, and cocamidopropyl betaine. Sulfates get a bad rap, but the truth is that they work better for some hair types than others. Those with very dry /damaged hair and scalp may want to limit their use of products containing sulfates. milk_shake sulfate –free shampoos: Integrity nourishing shampoo Color maintainer shampoo Silicones are another controversial shampoo ingredient—mostly because they are not easily rinsed away. As a result, rumors started circulating that silicones cause build up on hair. The truth is that silicones can be removed with most shampoos and unless you have very fine hair, you likely won’t experience any adverse effects from silicones. In fact, silicones coat the hair strand which helps eliminate frizz and improve shine. You may have also noticed sodium chloride—or salt—listed in many shampoos as well. Sodium chloride can help fine hair look more voluminous, since it roughens up the cuticle. This also serves a purpose for delivering hydrating ingredients into the hair shaft. Finally, let’s talk about citric acid. While it may sound scary to put any kind of acid into your hair, citric acid is actually really useful. It works to bring down the pH level of the shampoo, which helps to improve manageability. Citric acid also helps to protect your scalp from free-radical damage and is found in most citrus fruits. At milk_shake we pride ourselves on our use of high-quality ingredients that are dedicated to improving hair healthy and are typically sourced from nature. One key ingredient that you will find in nearly all of our product are milk proteins.
Learn more
Here's what you need to know about your curly hair
If you’re looking for the perfect way to wear and care for your curls, then look no further than your local salon. If your stylist has experience working with textured hair (and it’s likely that they do!) They are going to be your best resource for learning everything you need to know about taking good care of your hair. Here are a few things you will want to ask during your next consultation. What’s my curl type & texture? There are two main things to take into consideration when learning how to best care for your curls: Curl type Hair texture Knowing the shape of the curl can help to determine how much additional moisture it needs and knowing the overall hair texture can help to know how much additional moisture it can handle. Let’s get into it. Different Curl shapes Believe it or not, more than half the world’s population has some form of curly hair. The main difference between each type of curl is its shape. Of the three main categories of curl, the shapes can vary. Curl types by shape Wavy: primarily “S” shaped curl pattern Curly: primarily “C” shaped curl pattern Coily: Primarily a tight “Z” shaped curl pattern Why does curl shape matter? When it comes to care, the tighter the curl, the more hydration it needs. This is because the bend in the strand makes it difficult for naturally occurring oils to travel from the scalp down to the ends of the hair. This makes it harder for strands to get moisture and leaves them feeling dry. Basically, the higher up on the strand the curl starts, the drier it is. What’s my curl texture? While identifying what your base-line moisture needs are by curl type is a great first step, knowing how much moisture your hair can handle is just as important. That’s were getting to know your hair texture comes in. Hair texture needs Fine: needs lightweight moisture Medium: need moderate moisture Thick/coarse: needs a LOT of moisture Looking for the perfect care routine for YOUR curly hair? Check out milk_shake Curl Passion! Learn more HERE>>>
Learn more
How Fruit Extracts Keep Your Hair Healthy
We all know the eating lots of different fruits and vegetables is the cornerstone of a healthy diet. But did you also know that fruit extracts are really, really good for your hair? Because they are in such a concentrated form, fruit extracts pack a powerful punch when added to beauty products. You can find fruit extracts in most milk_shake products, including our best-selling leave-in conditioners, shampoos, and treatments. Allow us to introduce you to the wonderful world of extracts. Fruit Extracts & Antioxidants Most plants contain polyphenols—organic molecular compounds that have strong antioxidant properties. What this means is that these molecules are highly effective at fighting free radicals. While free radicals aren’t inherently bad, they do tend to impact the human body in negative ways by altering lipids and proteins, when not counteracted by antioxidants. Free radical damage has been linked to inflammation, chronic illnesses, diseases, and aging. Plants are naturally rich in antioxidants, especially berries. Blueberries, strawberries and goji berries are jam-packed with antioxidant properties, along with papaya. Our moisture plus family of products includes all of these powerful ingredients, for seriously healthy hair. Vitamin-Packed Power Besides being juicy and delicious, fruits are a natural multi-vitamin. It’s no secret that vitamins are an important part of staying healthy and there are a few that are especially important to hair health. Beta carotene—also known as vitamin A—is particularly important for cell growth and regeneration. It also helps the skin of the scalp produce sebum, an oily substance that helps keep your scalp healthy and hair moisturized. This powerful nutrient is found in goji berries, mangoes, and apricots. Vitamin C does more than just keep the common cold away, it also help fight free radicals and has been shown to stimulate collagen production. While oranges may get most of the vitamin C spotlight, strawberries contain high amounts of this super nutrient. You can find strawberry extract in our leave-in conditioner. There is no better beauty regimen than healthy living. Taking good care of yourself and your body is guaranteed to help you feel and look your best. While we feed our bodies with what we put in them, we feed our hair with what we put on it. With an abundance of a nutrients and free radical fighting power, fruit extracts are a natural way to keep your hair happy and healthy.
Learn more
These are the best brunette hair colors for every skin tone
If you’re feeling stumped on your fall hair transformation, look no further than your wrists! The skin on the inside of your wrist holds the key to unlocking your undertones. Your skin undertones can be a big help when determining which hair colors will look best on you. While going lighter can be a little more forgiving, darker hair colors tend to accentuate skin tones more, making it even more essential to find the right match for your particular tone. Your colorist will be best equipped to pinpoint the exact shade that will work best for you, but you can consider this a quick guide to help you look for fall hair color inspo! Neutral undertones First, let’s address a common issue if you’re having trouble determining if your undertones are more green or more blue, there’s a good chance that you have neutral undertones. While this may sound a little confusing at first, it’s good news! Those with neutral undertones can wear nearly any shade. Meaning, both classic chocolate shades and more trendy cool tones work equally well with your skin tone. milk_shake recommends: Color Maintainer Flower Shampoo & Conditioner Warm Undertones Classic fall hair color combinations like chocolate browns and caramel highlights will look best on you. If you’re looking for a little brightness and warmth, try asking your colorist for a sombré technique—starting with a deep, rich brunette at the base and fading down to lighter caramel and honey shades at the mid-lengths and ends. milk_shake recommends: Color Maintainer Shampoo & Conditioner Cool Undertones Deep, cool shades will look best on you. Picture dark chocolate tones and the sheen of dark roast coffee beans. You will want to ask your colorist to keep the tones ashy and cool. If you want to stay on the lighter side, look for mushroom brown tones, which can also be broken up with cool-toned highlights. milk_shake recommends: Cold Brunette Shampoo & Conditioner
Learn more
These are the best foods for healthy hair
We all know how important it is to use the right products for our hair type. After all, if you want high-quality hair, you need to use high quality products. But did you also know that your diet is just as important for your hair’s health? We're about to show you the best foods for healthy hair. Believe it or not, the age-old saying is true: you are, in fact, what you eat. Put in slightly more scientific terms, your body uses the nutrients food in the foods that you eat to build new cells. This includes your skin, nails, and hair cells. So, if you want healthy hair, it’s important to have a healthy diet. And if we’ve said it once, we’ve said it a thousand times: healthy hair IS beautiful hair. Luckily, most of the “superfoods” that are good for your overall health have added benefits for your hair as well. Here are some of the top foods that you’ll want to start incorporating into your diet for healthier hair EAT THE RAINBOW FOR HEALTHY HAIR BERRIES, especially raspberries, strawberries, and blueberries were ranked number one in antioxidant activity by the US Department of Agriculture compared to 40 common fruits and vegetables. The antioxidants in blueberries protect you from premature aging, so add a cup to your yogurt or cereal every day. TROPICAL FRUITS such as mango and papaya are rich in vitamin C, A ,and E. These powerful antioxidants protect cells, while delivering rich, emollient properties, making fruit one of the best foods for healthy hair. DARK, LEAFY GREENS, like broccoli, spinach and chard. Dark green leafy veggies are full of vitamins A and C. Your body uses these foods to produce sebum, the oily secretion on your scalp that works like conditioner. These veggies also pack iron and calcium. Trade your lettuce for spinach and sauté broccoli for a quick and healthy side Product Rx: milk_shake Leave-in Conditioner, Moisture plus, Shampoo & Conditioner, Integrity Shampoo & Conditioner PROTEINS FOR STRONGER HAIR MILK PROTEINS from milk, yogurt and cheese. Dairy products are plentiful of calcium and protein. Choose low-fat or fat-free versions so your waistline and hair can both benefit. Mix it with fruit or granola for a healthy breakfast or afternoon snack. EGGS are another food that’s rich in protein. Eggs are loaded with four key minerals: zinc, selenium, sulfur and iron. Iron is especially important because it helps cells carry oxygen to the hair follicles, and too little iron is a major cause of hair loss, particularly in woman. WILD SALMON if not farm raised is full of protein, which is the main component of hair. Oily fish like salmon contains beneficial Omega 3 fatty acid that can help prevent a dry scalp, as well as vitamin B-12 and iron. You won’t have a problem adding salmon to your diet since there are hundreds of ways to enjoy this beauty superfood. Try it grilled, baked, in your pasta, with a salad or in sushi. POULTRY, this everyday entrée is extraordinary when it comes to protein, as well as hair healthy zinc, iron and B vitamins to keep strands strong and plentiful. Because hair is nearly all protein, foods rich in protein are giving you the building blocks for hair. Product Rx: milk_shake Whipped Cream, Leave-in Conditioner, Incredible Milk, Color Maintainer Shampoo & Conditioner, Integrity Shampoo & Conditioner, Silver Shine Shampoo & Conditioner OILS & FATS FOR SHINY HAIR OLIVE OIL no one wants dry, lackluster hair. But if your diet is too low in fat, that’s what could happen. This healthy oil contains beneficial vitamin E, so use it for your sautés as well your salads. About a teaspoon a day will do the trick. NUT BUTTERS like almond, muru muru, and coconut butter provide moisture and essential fatty acids. Delicious and nutritious, which is why it makes our list for best foods for healthy hair. SUNFLOWER OIL similar to nut butters (but less fatty), sunflower oil hydrates and provides essential fatty acids and antioxidants. Product Rx: Incredible Milk, Integrity Shampoo & Conditioner HYDRATE YOUR HAIR WATER That’s right, good old fashioned plain water. While the typical recommendation is 64 oz per day, a more accurate calculation is to divide your body weight in half and drink that number of ounces. If you live in a particularly humid or dry climate, or are very active, you will want to add in additional ounces. Water keeps everything in your body running smoothly, from your blood to your sweat, and yes, even your tears. Most importantly, it aids in the digestive process, making it easier for your system to absorb all of those super nutrients that you are getting. You can’t fake healthy hair. So, treat it right, with high quality products, and treat your body right with a nutrient dense diet. It’s beauty, naturally.
Learn more