New Year's Eve VIVIDS project!!!

My New Years VIVIVDS project!!! 

This year has been so full. I get so caught up in the day to day hair I've forgotten to come here and blog. I must be better. I have so much to tell you about.

Since my last blog about going to Rebecca Taylor's VIVIVDS class. I've done quite a few fun colors. Most have been panels or several streaks throughout the hair. Even one I did mostly 

Magenta and violets. It was beautiful.  All have been so fun. 

Today I had the opportunity to have free reign on one of my lovely clients. I was so excited but wanted to challenge myself with something differnt, really using colors I usually done use. 

I always go for purples and pinks.

I had looked at many hair pics for inspiration  and couldn't figure out what I wanted to do so I chatted with a couple of my stylist friends this morning Heidi Grether and Ruby Devine. (Look them up on Instagram)  Ruby mentioned finding an inspiration photo... She was right... As soon as I saw it I knew.... My brothers photo of the Alaskan sunset. 

Once I had this is my mind and knew these colors would work together.. Afterall they do it nature. Next I decided to start custom mixing my pravana VIVIVDS colors. I used white bowls so I could see how they'd look.  I grabbed tubes of color that I've never touched. Orange, yellow, green... Oh so many!  A dab of this a dab of that... Finally I felt I had it right. I even added a bowl of deep violet blue. 

To begin! I have been lightening the top. It still had a bit of warmth that I didn't want for this color to work.

I mixed pravana Vivids clear with a dab of violet and silver to tone the warmth away. 

I created a roadmap of sorts I'm my head for how I needed to place these colors. Of couse I took a few side roads along the way. I began filling up her blonde hairs with lovely colors melting one into the next. I even used a little pop of yellows ( ruby suggested that)  Using EmBee meche to seperate. Www.embeemeche.com

I let her processed  for 20 mins and reminded her of the cold water needed to rinse... brrrr it was cold. Yes this is best for vivid colors to last. She was a champ! 

Next blowdry and style and gaze!!! We were both so thrilled!  Here's a few after pics . Enjoy! 

And again here's my Alaskan sunset inspired hair project... What fun I had! 

Find something that inspires you... It could be a sunset, living room ucolors, a flower... You can find it anywhere. It's right in front of your eyes. 

Happy coloring!!!  

Shannon 

http://instagram.com/shannonkeel

Be Present

I see the last time I posted a blog was in 2012... oh man have I been out of touch! Im here now though. I'm present. I'm present in more ways than one. I've been doing hair for a long time and as any stylist knows we have ups and we have downs. Times that were fully present in what we do. Other times we just "do".

Recently I've become a member of a stylist forum through Facebook. Rebecca Taylor, who I've admired her work for a long time, started the forum. Stylists from all over the world are a part of it. Its truly amazing how we all feed from each other, learn from each other. Seeing each others work, being part of a large community of people that do the same thing, it makes you want to be better at what you do. It really lit a fire in me about hair. I don't believe it ever went out but sometimes it dwindles down. The flames are burning hot now. 

One of the things that I decided was I needed to learn some new techniques. Balayage and ombre were something that even though I watched YouTube videos, I just couldn't seem to master. Another was Vivids colors.  I knew I needed a class. Of course what better person than Rebecca Taylor. She was 4 hours away. My dear friend and mentor Heidi Grether and her sweet assistant and stylist Alanna decided to go together. I saved up my money and headed to take this class...Let me say... It changed me as a stylist. I feel like now I have more options with color than I ever had. I now have more vision for my clients than ever.

 If you're a stylist let me tell you, don't be afraid to spend money on education... I promise it's worth it, every penny. You're clients love knowing you're learning new things too. It says to them that your not just there to do their hair and go home... you are present. You're there for them. 

All pics here are are from my class and some work that I've done since Rebecca's and a few other classes I've taken. I hope you enjoy.

Shannon 

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Prom Hair!

Prom was this week! Something must be in the water. These girls are gorgeous!
For several years I didn't do special occasion hair. After moving to a new town a few years ago, i decided it was time to get my hands back into bobby pins,  curling irons and hairspray. Prom is a special day for these girls so i always want to do my best. I go to Youtube to watch how-to videos. I also go to classes when I can. One of my favorites is stylist Martin Parsons also known among hairstylists as "The Up-do King". These are great ways to keep up to date with things that are going on. There's always things to learn.

Below I have a list of products that I love and some reminders for you as you are planning that special day. You will be glad and so will your stylist.

Rachael's messy twisted side up-do

 Most my clients bring in a picture of a style that they like.... Pinterest or Google Images are both great sources. Find other styles on my salon page, The Hair Parlor.

Most importantly, my clients give me creative freedom to do what their hair wants and needs to do to be at it's best.  (Girls, this is the best way for you to walk out of the salon happy)
Here are pictures of my girls from this weekend. Rachael, Eryn and Hannah.  They were great clients and turned out beautiful.




If you want or need lots of curls, plan for around 1hour. Especially if you have long hair. This will help you to be sure to plan your time so you can get ready with a little time to spare in case, well you know "things" can happen.

Eryn's blond bombshell curls

Hannah's Blonde curls partial up-do

Things to remember!
#1 Shampoo hair the night before.
#2 Wear a button up shirt
#3 Have an idea of what you want. Pictures are great.
( unless of course, you're leaving 100% up to your stylist)
#4 Arrive on time
#5 SPEAK UP! Stylists can not read your mind.



Products I love using for special occasion styles:

Kenra Hot Spray

Kenra #25 firm hold Hairspray

New fav, Aquage Hairspray

Thank you to my sweet girls for allowing me to post their pics. It was a great day. I know they had fun at their Prom.... (I saw their pictures).

Happy Hair Day!! Shannon Keel The Hair Parlor Facebook page

Gray Gray Go Away!

Being a Hair Colorist at The Hair Parlor in Lee, FL. I know the struggle that many of my clients have. Their hair grows fast. I apply the color and I get every one of those gray hairs. Soon 3 weeks arrive and so does the regrowth of their hair. The silver is shining. There is no way to stop it. So, I decided to do some research. I knew there are some products out there to help you get by without being a beacon in the night. I know some of you know what I mean. Here's a few that seem to have good reviews.

#1 Joan Rivers Great Hair Day

Joan Rivers Great Hair Day

Feel More Confident!

Transform Your Hair from Thin to Thick Instantly!

• Hides hair loss, thinning hair, bald spots, and root growth
• Eliminates shiny spots from exposed scalp
• Gives the illusion of thick, full hair
• Formulated to stay on the scalp
• Guaranteed even color distribution

One of my clients brought Joan Rivers Great Hair day in for me to keep and use on her every week when she comes in for a shampoo & style. I use it between her color appointments it seems to blend the gray away and also makes hair look thicker. It comes in a few colors. It's sold at  Soft Surroundings website . Their catalogue  offers beautiful soft  well made clothing , home interior and beauty products. Have a Great Hair Day costs around $29. It can also be purchased through  QVC Here's the link to read more about it ......Click on Joan Rivers Great Hair Day 

#2 Rita Hazan

Rita Hazan

Rita Hazan Root Concealer

Master colorist, Rita Hazan, spent more than three years solving the biggest problem for every woman who colors her hair—how to cover up roots, especially those roots that start to come in just a few weeks after permanent color is applied. Root Concealer is water- and sweat-resistant and won't stain the face or clothing or bed linens. With just four shades personally developed by Rita and tested for over a year in her 5th Avenue salon, every woman can find a shade that perfectly blends with her hair color.
To me this one is the best one. I've never used it, but I'd sure love to get it to try on a few of my clients. This one can also be purchased on QVC for a little more money at $35. The best price is $24 at Sephora. Here's the link Rita Hazan Root Concealer at Sephora

 #3

Buttercream Cosmetics Shampowder

There's not always time for a shower, but there's always time for Shampowder!

Shampowder dry shampoo allows you to have freedom between washings and will revive, volumize and deodorize your hair. By absorbing the oils that weigh down unwashed hair - lifeless hair is transformed into full, more manageable hair while the pigmented powder blends seamlessly, disguising the fact that you skipped a washing. The lightly vanilla scented powder is available in THREE shades. To apply, dab - dab - dab the specially designed all-in-one applicator brush to generously apply powder directly to your hairline and scalp.

Shampowder is perfectly purse-sized for women on the go and the handy all-in-one applicator is compact enough to drop into your handbag or travel bag.

• Instantly freshens hair
• Absorbs oil
• Adds body
• Pigmented powder blends naturally with all hair colors
• Exclusive brush applicator delivers the perfect amount of product exactly where you want it
• Enhances manageability
• Light vanilla scent deodorizes hair
• Less washings equals healthier hair

I must say I love the website and packaging. It's super cute and the price is only $15.99.   The only drawback is they only have 3 colors. Click here to read more about this product and purchase. Buttercream Cosmetics Shampowder

Have a Great Hair Day!
Shannon Keel

The Hair of Adele

This past Sunday Adele won each of the six Grammys for which she was nominated, including the awards for Album, Song and Record of the Year. She also performed for the first time since canceling a tour last year to recover from throat surgery.

As I watched Adele win it all at the Grammys and sing her heart out to "Someone Like You". I just couldn't help but notice how beautiful she is.  Later that night on Facebook I noticed quite a few nice comments about her hair (see below pic). I decided to find a picture of her from that night. I couldn't help but notice all the beautiful styles she's had since her career started. Look through some of the looks Adele has worn. What is your favorite?  

#1 Grammy night

#2 STUNNING!

#3 Fantastic style. Deep brown color. LOVE

#4 Classic

#5 classic loose

#6 side swept bang with bun

#7 swept up light beehive

#7 short and loose

#8 stunning with red hair and choppy bangs 

My favorite looks are #2 and #8. Maybe it's just because the #2 photo is just amazing in general and the red is stunning on her. Either way. She really is beautiful and has a wonderful voice. You must check her out if you haven't.

What is your favorite look? You can comment below.

No More Salt!

Over the past 6 months I have been suggesting sulfate-free shampoo to my clients. I was doing some of the keratin de-frizzing treatments and this was one stipulation in making it last longer. The more I read the more I realized that sulfates in shampoo is basically a type of salt. Also it's used in shampoos to cause it to suds up.

 

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate ( SLS) ........This inexpensive detergent is commonly used in cosmetic cleansers, hair shampoos, bath and shower gels, bubble baths, etc. - It is probably the most dangerous ingredient used in skin and hair-care products. In the cleaning industry SLS is used in garage floor cleaners, engine degreasers, car-wash soaps, etc. It is very corrosive and readily attacks greasy surfaces.Click here to read more. Article on Sodium Lauryl Sulfate 

Basically, all those wonderful bubbles that show up when you're shampooing your hair happen because of SLS. Of course we typically think "the more the better" right? I know I do. There are times that we have to remember "less is more".

As I started suggesting going sulfate-free, I noticed my clients hair looking better. One of my clients always has struggled with that halo of frizz.  The last couple of times she came in I noticed a huge difference. She said she has been using the shampoo. Many others have come in excited about what it's done for their hair.

As much as I've suggested it, I hadn't made the switch myself. This week I made a point to purchase my very own sulfate-free shampoo.  I bought Kenra Platinum Sulfate-free Shampoo for normal- medium hair and the  Kenra Platinum Mango Butter Moisturizer  to go with it. WOW! My hair felt great. Not to mention it had a wonderful smell. Another thing I noticed, my scalp wasn't itchy. I've been struggling with this for a while. 

Color treated hair? Sulfates strip, before you know it your color has faded. 

Oily hair? Sounds crazy, but sulfates ( salt) strips oils away, which sounds like a good thing. Unfortunately, your body will produce more oil to replace what is lost. 

Dry Frizzy Hair? Need I say more? Sulfates once again..... STRIP, causing frizz.

Sulfates in shampoos just aren't helping you. This is why in the last few years  the "no-Poo" products like Wen or Deva Curl have become so popular. They have gotten away from this one ingredient that seems to be the culprit. It really is worth a try for any hair type. 

I say NO MORE SALT for me.

Happy Hair Day!

Shannon

Cowlicks and Animal Instincts

Animal Instinct : When applied to human beings, this term refers to those of our urges that are not really logical. 


That being said, lets talk about "Cowlicks". 

 As my friend and Hairstylist Heidi Grether said. "How did our sophisticated career get such a down home on the farm term as THAT?"  Well, here it is...... drum roll please. The term "cowlick" dates from the late 16th century, when Richard Haydocke used it in his translation of Lamazzo  "The lockes or plaine feakes of haire called cow-lickes, are made turning upwards." 

    

This kid has cowlicks!

I think most of us know what a cowlick is. Most of us have one.  It's that bit of hair that grows in a circular direction or in the opposite direction of the rest of your hair. It's found in either the bang, crown or nape section of your head. Most of us HATE  it with a passion. This is where the "animal instinct" comes in. ( I can picture you nodding your head YES! ). It  truly has a mind of it's own. 


Some have been fortunate enough to have discovered a style that work with their cowlick and it looks fabulous. Vidal Sassoon was a master of creating styles that work with the natural hair growth. He cut Mia Farrow's hair for the 1968  film Rosemary's Baby.

Mia Farrow

As a Hairstylist I try to look for cowlicks before I cut one of my client's hair shorter. Most times it can be cut to lay right. Every now and then after one snip that cowlick shows up waving at me like a child that hasn't seen me in a long time. I have one in my crown. Although I love my hair short hair, the cowlick , MY cowlick makes me crazy. I want to fight it! I want to scream! (See the picture below). This is how it looks when I do nothing to my hair. Trust me, I get those hairs up before I get to work. (See the after picture further down).

My crazy cowlick

Here are ways to deal with a cowlick:

#1 Keep the area a bit longer to give it weight. 

#2 Have it cut short to blend. When I do this, I look like I'm chiseling out a design in a piece of wood.

#3  Hair product like medium hold gel and light teasing to manipulate it.

#4 Plastic surgery? Yes, I actually read about this! I guess when that "animal instinct" kicks in and you want to pull your hair out...... I can sort of understand.

With a little work, VIOLA!

Take a deep breath and try to go with the flow of your hair. Your stylist should be able to help you. Don't be afraid to ask. That is what we're here for.  There is a cut and style that will work with your cowlick. If you just learn how to use it to your own benefit. Don't let that animal instinct get ahold of you. It's just not worth it. Do I still struggle and fight with it. I sure do.
Here's another way to think of it.  A cowlick is a part of your make-up, distinctly YOUR design. Much like a finger print or even a southern accent.  Realizing that God created that as a part of you is just neat!

My dear sweet husband, Jeff Keel suggested I blog on this subject. What a great subject.
Also, If you love music, check out Jeff's blog. He finds great music to review. Click here  40 Year Phone Call

Happy Hair Days!

Shannon