Cici1506Hair Color & Treatments

What is a Permanent Hair Color?
Permanent Hair Colors are colors that lift “lighten” and Deposit “darken” at the same time. Permanent Hair Colors contain both ammonia and peroxide. Permanent Hair colors can lighten up to four shades or levels. Some Permanent Colors “such as Wella, Kolestone” can lighten almost up to 6 levels. It all depends on the porosity and condition of the hair. It works by opening up the hair cuticle and depositing the color pigment deep into the hair. Even though they are called Permanent Colors, they still fade due to hair washing, conditioning, sun, light, heat, humidity and styling. The color usually stays true up to four weeks, before fading starts to show. However, Dark and Blonde tones do NOT tend to fade as fast as Reds and Coppers

When can a Permanent Hair Color be used on my hair?
Permanent Hair Color can be used on virgin hair and chemically treated hair. Even though it can be used on previously colored hair, it does NOT lighten it. Only Lighteners such as bleach can lift Permanent Hair Color. It can only lighten virgin hair. However it can darken previously colored hair. Hair that has Henna in it can NOT be colored or lightened.

What is a Semi Permanent Hair Color?
Semi Permanent Hair Colors are colors that can ONLY darken or change the tone of the hair. There are many different types of Semi Permanent hair colors, some are made from chemicals and others are made from natural ingredients “such as vegetable dyes”. Semi Permanent Hair Colors do NOT contain ammonia and most of them have less than 2% peroxide in their developers “mixing lotion”. Some will have no peroxide at all. It works by depositing the color on top of the hair shaft, therefore not lasting for more than three to six weeks.

When can I use a Semi Permanent Hair Color?
Semi Permanent Hair Color can be used on all types of hair. However, it does NOT lighten hair. Semi Permanent Hair Color can darken hair to any color that is lighter than the existing hair color. It can change the tone of the color. In a lot of cases, Semi Permanent color is used as a toner.

What is a Demi Permanent Hair Color?
Demi Permanent Hair Color is a color that falls between a Permanent Color and a Semi Permanent Color. It contains no ammonia but has peroxide in it. Even though it has peroxide, it does NOT lighten the hair; it only darkens and changes the tone. It is more aggressive than a Semi Permanent Color, in that it penetrates the hair shaft therefore allowing for more deposit. The longevity of this color is just as good as a Permanent Hair Color.

When can I use a Demi Permanent Hair Color?
Demi Permanent Colors can be used on all types of hair. However, it does NOT lighten hair. Demi Permanent Hair Color can darken hair to any color that is lighter than the existing hair color. It can also drastically change the tone of the color. It usually gives a brighter effect than the Semi Permanent Color and it lasts about as long as Permanent Colors.

What is a Toner?
A toner is a Type of Semi Permanent Color that is used to darken or change the tone of Hi-lights. Just like a Semi Permanent Color, Toners do not lighten hair and do not contain ammonia or peroxide.

When can I use a Toner?
A Toner is used when Hi-lights are too light and need to be darkened a little. It also changes the tone of the Hi-lights and adds shine to the hair.

What is Cellophane?
Cellophanes are Clear or slightly pigmented rinses. They are usually made of natural ingredients. Some times they are referred to as rinses. They are from the Semi Permanent Color family. It usually lasts one to three weeks.

When can I use Cellophane?
Cellophane is used when one is trying to give their hair shine, or brighten up their hair color and/or hi-lights. It is not recommended for use in replacement of Semi, Demi or Permanent Color.

What are Hi-lights & Low-lights?
Hi-lights & Low-lights are used in many ways to accent the hair with different colors, change 10s% – 75% of the hair color, or to camouflage grey hair. The sky is the limit with what you can do with hi and low-lights. You can hi-light hair with one, two or as many as four different colors at the same time (also known as dimensional hair coloring). They can also be used in combination with an all over hair color. The difference between hi and low-lights, is the color. If you are going lighter than your base hair color, it’s referred to as hi-lights and if you’re going darker it’s considered low-lights. There are many different ways to hi/low-light hair; the most common method is foiling technique. That’s where desired sections of hair to be hi/low-lighted are weaved out and placed in an aluminum foil with the color applied directly on it, then folded and closed up until the color is processed (usually 20 to 40 min). Other common methods are the cap hi-light and painting also known as baliage.

What is a Hair Relaxer / Straightener / Re-texturizer?
Hair Relaxer is a chemical that is used to permanently straighten hair. There are many different types of Relaxers made of a few different types of chemicals on the market today. There is a Sodium Hydroxide “lye” Relaxer/Straightener, a Guanidine Hydroxide “no-lye”, and an Ammonium Thioglycolate “Thio” Relaxer / Straightener / Retexturizer. Those different chemicals should never, ever be mixed together. Once you have one of them in your hair, you should never get a different type of relaxer in the hair. If you do, it will melt your hair! Chemical Relaxers / Straighteners are very dangerous chemicals therefore they should only be preformed by a licensed professional. Re-texturizers are often used to correct hair cowlicks and growth patterns. Relaxers and Straighteners are used to loosen curls and straighten waves.

When can I use a Chemical Relaxer / Straightener / Retexturizer?
These types of Chemicals can be use on anyone with curly or wavy hair. If you are trying to get rid of your Curl or Wave and you don’t have Hi-lights in your hair, than you are a good candidate. A professional consultation should be preformed first in order to determine which Chemical best suites your type of hair. Retexturizers are often used to correct hair cowlicks and growth patterns.

What is a Japanese “Thermal” Relaxer and is it for me?
Japanese Relaxers, aka Thermal Re-conditioners, are a Thio based chemical. They are used on wavy to curly hair. It is used with a thermal flat Iron, to get the hair as straight as possible. This is a time consuming procedure. It usually takes four to six hours to complete this service. However this service is not recommended for excessively curly and/or Afro hair.

What is a Perm / Body Wave?
Perms are Ammonium Thioglycolate or Acid based chemicals, which are used to give the hair a permanent curl or wave. The type of curl or wave given, is determined by the rod or roller used, not the perm (chemical) it self. The smaller the rod the tighter and smaller the curl will be. Perms usually lose up, but don’t completely fall out, they simply grow out. A body wave is a perm that is given using big rollers; therefore getting a big lose wave designed to give body, not curl. Body waves are not permanent and they tend to not last more than six to eight weeks.

Hair Extensions

1. What are Hair Extensions?
Extensions are used to give the hair length, fullness, highlights, or most importantly, to make the person look and feel sexy. There are two different types of extensions: temporary and some semi-permanent. The most popular semi permanent type of Extensions, are applied using a process known as bonding, also referred to as Fusion extensions, and MicroLink extensions. Bonds are made up of the highest quality of glue or bonding material. The type of bonds we use at Dolce Vita Salon & Spa, come from Keratin, which is a tough, fibrous, insoluble protein that makes up skin, hair, and nails. There are also a variety of hairs in a multitude of colors and textures that can be used; the best being a 100% real human hair from Europe or Asia. The MicroLink extensions are pre-bonded extension pieces that are held together by a small thin coated metal link placed at the root of the hair. The links are 100% safe on hair and will not cause breakage or damage. MicroLink extensions also come in a variety of colors and made of up a 100% real human hair.

2. What are temporary extensions?
These are the clip on types that are only applied for a special occasion, birthday, or a night out in town and can be easily removed. They can be used over and over again, but they don’t tend to look as real as the semi-permanent type.

3. How are Extensions applied?
Hair extensions are applied by taking horizontal sections starting at the nape area, keeping the sections one inch to 1.5 inches apart. Your extension artist will then work on subsections that include the application of bonding glue (keratin) with 15 to 20 strands of hair at a time. The horizontal and subsections will then be smoothened out to form a small clear tube that holds the pieces of hair together. With MicroLinks, the hair is looped through the link and tightened with a tool much like a wrench. Next, 12 to 20 subsections of bonding and linking will be applied into a full horizontal row as the process is repeated until the desired look is achieved.

4. Am I a good candidate for hair extensions?
If you want more length and or thickness to your hair, you probably are a good candidate for hair extensions; however that determination can only be made after a professional consultation is received.

5. What can hair extensions do for my hair?
Hair extensions can make your hair appear longer and/or thicker, in just a matter of hours. They give you the look you see many celebrities with on the red carpet without the long wait for naturally growing your hair out.

6. Are they painful or uncomfortable?
Not at all, if done properly. If you feel any discomfort, your extension artist is not putting them on properly and you should stop.

7. Will the extensions look natural and will the color and texture match my own hair?
Yes we are able to match the hair extensions to your own hair, and place them in such a way which will make them look very natural. Invest in 100% real human hair and schedule a consultation prior to ordering them.

8. Can they damage my hair?
No, on the contrary, extensions will help protect your hair from splitting and allow your hair to grow healthier.

9. Can I treat my hair the same as always?
Do be gentle on the roots where the bonds and links are. Certain brushes, shampoos, and colors seem to preserve the integrity of your extensions better than others. Brush them more frequently with a soft brush; gently tie them before going to bed. Dry your extensions before going to bed and immediately after exposure to water. Besides that, you can treat your hair normally.

10. Can I get them highlighted?
Sure. Many people prefer highlighting their extensions instead of coloring and highlighting their own hair. Highlights on extensions stand out more and extension artists can have fun creating different shades from blonde and red to pink, blue and purple.

11. How long can I wear them before getting them redone?
It is recommended that you not leave them in for more than three to four months. If left in longer they will begin to break your natural hair.

12. How soon can I get them redone once I take them out?
We recommend that you give your self a break for two to four weeks before getting new ones.

13. Can I get hair extensions as hi-lights?
Sure, we have many clients that like to get some hi-lights done with extensions instead of coloring and hi-lighting their own hair. We can create many different colors with them ranging from blonde to red to pink to purple.

14. How much do hair extensions cost?
The price usually ranges from $1,800 to $3,000 (including the hair and application). Pricing depends on what the client wants to achieve. Factors include current length and thickness vs. desired length, thickness and the number of colors to be matched. A rule of thumb: For thickness only, the cost is around $1,800 and for full length, the cost ranges.

What is dimensional coloring?
Dimensional coloring uses different tones of light and dark next to each other to create the illusion of more or less hair depending on the desired result.

Brazilian Keratin Treatment

The Brazilian Keratin Treatment is a revolutionary process that transforms the hair from frizzy un-manageable hair to easy to manage frizz free hair! The treatment is keratin based. Keratin is the primary protein of the hair, skin, and nails which gives hair the ability to return to its original healthy state. Unlike products such as crème relaxers and Japanese Straightening Systems, this treatment will replenish the condition of your hair without damage or change to its molecular structure. Instead, it will simply preserve the hair in a frizz free and manageable state. This treatment can be used on all hair types, such as curly, wavy, frizzy and even chemically treated dry hair.

1. Can you do the treatment over a Japanese straightener?
Yes, you can do the treatment over any kind of straightener. We recommend waiting for two weeks.

2. Is this treatment a relaxer?
No, it is a treatment based of keratin that naturally softens, shines, smoothes, eliminates frizz and gives instant manageability.

3. Can you do the treatment after coloring?
Yes, we recommend immediately after you color your hair.

4. Can you do the treatment on top of relaxed hair?
Yes, you can do the treatment over any previously relaxed hair. Whether it’s a Sodium Hydroxide, Thio-based chemical or any other type, but only after two weeks.

5. Can you do the treatment on previously chemically treated hair?
Yes, this treatment can be done on any previously chemically treated head of hair.

6. Can you do the treatment on highlighted hair?
Yes, you can do highlights and this treatment immediately after.

7. Can you do the treatment on virgin hair?
Yes, it can be done on virgin hair.

8. Can you do the treatment on children? If yes, what ages?
Yes, we recommend on children 7 and over.

9. Can I color my hair and do the treatment?
Yes, we recommend you color the hair first and immediately follow up with the treatment.

10. Can I color my hair after the treatment?
Yes, we recommend doing so 2 weeks after you have done the treatment.

11. Can I shampoo my hair after the treatment?
Yes, but only 4 whole days after you have done the treatment.

12. Can I wear a ponytail or tie my hair?
No, only 4 days after doing the treatment.

13. What should I do if my hair gets wet during the first 4 days?
Blow dry immediately and flat iron if necessary.

14. Can I go into the pool or ocean after my treatment?
Yes, but only after 4 days.

15. How long will the treatment stay on my hair?
2 to 4 months on all types of hair.

16. What shampoo can I use after doing the treatment?
We recommend our shampoo because it does not contain Sodium Chloride and it also has Keratin and UV protection which will protect your hair and allow the treatment to last longer.

17. Do I have to do a touch up on my next visit on the whole head?
Yes, the entire head from the roots to ends.

18. When should I have the treatment done again?
2 to 4 months or as needed.

19. Should I cut my hair before the treatment?
Yes, if you are changing your style. No, if you need a trim only.

20. Can I use my hair spray, gel, mousse or any other hair products on my hair during the 4-day period?
No.

21. If I get any ridges in my hair when I sleep, what should I do?
Use either a blow dryer or flat iron to straighten the ridge in the hair.

22. Can I do the treatment while pregnant or nursing?
We do not recommend it. Check with your physician first.

23. Can an infant be present while the treatment is being done?
We do not recommend infants be present in a salon during any chemical services.

What is a Shellac nail manicure?

Shellac is a breakthrough, patent-pending UV3 technology that combines the ease of polish with the permanence of gels. Try the 14-day wear polish that’ll leave you without a nick, chip, or smudge!

Laser Hair Removal

Any medical laser procedure can be a bit intimidating. Learn more about the Soprano Pain-Free, Hair-Free™ so you’ll feel at ease with the procedure.

What is Laser Hair Removal?
Laser hair removal is a procedure which removes hair from the body utilizing a long pulse laser. Laser hair removal lasers have been in use since 1997. The treatment is performed by a specially-trained laser specialist by pointing the laser device at shaved skin. Laser heat disables follicles from producing hair.

Am I a Candidate for Laser Hair Removal?
Both men and women seek laser hair removal to remove unwanted hair. Laser hair removal is commonly done on underarm, pubic area, legs, abdomen, lip, chin, back, buttocks, thighs, face, neck, chest, arms, and toes. The only time laser hair removal will not work for you is if your hair is too fine (like Peach fuzz) and/or too light in color, such as gray and blonde hair.
*If you are a minor, you will need to have a parent or legal guardian with you to read and sign the consent form prior to the procedure on your first visit.

Is Laser Hair Removal Painful?
In one pulse, laser removes all the hair on a patch of skin the size of a nickel or a quarter. Generally, laser hair removal is not much more painful than waxing, though the sensation is different. With each pulse, the feeling resembles a rubber band snapping against the skin for a quick second. Pain is only felt while laser is hitting the skin and doesn’t last.
*It should be noted not feeling any pain during treatments may be an indication that the laser is set too low to produce permanent results.

How does The Soprano Laser Hair Removal work?
The Soprano uses gentle light to damage the hair follicle. This disables the follicle from growing hair, which means that gradually over several treatments, there is a permanent reduction in the amount of hair in that area.

Is treatment with The Soprano safe?
Laser hair removal is the most popular aesthetic procedure performed annually. It’s also one of the aesthetic medical industry’s most well-known and researched uses of lasers. There are many advances in the Soprano technology that make it one of the safest laser hair removal systems available for all skin colors. There is no long term health hazards from light used in the Soprano. It has been used for decades in medicine, surgery, and aesthetics without adversity.

What’s The Pain-Free, Hair-Free™ treatment?
The Pain-Free, Hair-Free™ treatment (one of the settings that can be used by The Soprano laser machine) has provided safe and effective permanent hair reduction for thousands of patients worldwide. Because Pain-Free, Hair-Free™ utilizes our IN-MOTION™ and low-heat settings we’re able to provide a level of safety unlike any other laser hair removal procedure. It targets hair follicles with gentle pulses of laser energy while you stay comfortable. In addition, a patented DualChill™ mechanism ensures the surface of your skin stays cool and comfortable throughout your treatment. It’s recommended if you have very dark and/or sensitive skin.

How do I know Pain-Free, Hair-Free™ really won’t hurt?
Most people find the Pain-Free, Hair-Free™ laser hair removal treatment comfortable, especially when compared to other hair removal methods and lasers. This is one of few laser hair removal procedures where numbing cream is not necessary. Pain is subjective, however, so if you find it otherwise simply talk to your provider.

What kind of results can I expect from The Soprano treatment?
Each Soprano treatment will result in less hair coming back, as well as hair growing progressively lighter in color, finer and slower-growing with each treatment. It takes more than 1 treatment to affect all the follicles growing in an area. Most people achieve satisfactory clearance after 4 – 8 treatments, but individual results vary depending on medical and genetic factors. Lighter colored hair may require more treatments than darker colored hair.

How many treatments will I need?
Typically, 4 to 6 treatments is adequate to provide permanent hair reduction. However, after a one-on-one consultation, we may determine that based on the density of your hair, hair color and skin color, you may require additional treatment. You should continue treatments until remaining hairs are too fine for laser to target, or until they’ve reached your desired reduction. It’s not unusual to require a touch-up treatment two years after completing laser hair removal treatments.

Why do I need 4 – 6 treatments?
Hair growth occurs in 4 stages: Early Anagen (early hair growth), Anagen (active hair growth) Catagen (regression) Telogen (resting, not growing) Laser hair removal only affects the Anagen stage, (actively growing hair). Therefore, approximately twenty-five-percent of hair is removed with each treatment. After 4 to 6 treatments, the area should be free from hair.

Will my hair ever grow back?
Actively growing hairs that are treated should not grow back. Once a hair follicle is damaged it cannot grow hair. However, hair follicles that were not in the active growth phase will need to be treated. It’s also not unusual for patients to have a touch-up two years after initial treatment due to hormonal changes.

Do I need to arrange time off from work for treatments?
No. The Soprano treatment has no “down time” and requires no recovery time. You can have your treatment and return to work, school or other normal activities immediately.

Should I shave before the treatment?
Make sure that the area that’s about to be treated gets completely shaved the night before your treatment so that the laser energy is targeted towards the hair follicle and not wasted it on the hair above the skin’s surface. Treating unshaved skin can result in burning of the skin by singed hairs.

How frequently do I need treatments?
We recommend that you come in every 6 to 8 weeks for your treatments.

What happens after each treatment?
Temporary pinkness in the skin lasts a very short time and most people return to work and/or normal activities immediately after treatment. The treated area will “shed” some hairs over the next 3 – 4 weeks and you may experience a period of hairlessness in that area while you wait for your next treatment.

Are there any laser hair removal risks or side effects?
Some people may experience the following potential temporary side effects:

  • Itching
  • Redness for up to 3 days
  • Swelling around mouth of follicle for up to 3 days
  • Tingling or feeling of numbness
  • Temporary pigment change on darker skin

How much does laser hair removal cost?
The cost for laser hair removal treatments vary by body part. However, compared to a life time of waxing laser hair removal creates a significant savings that can save money year after year. Please refer to our website for a complete price list of all of our laser treatments.

What are the Causes of Excessive Hair Growth and How Can They Affect My Treatments?
The causes of excessive hair growth are many and varied, including:

  • Heredity
  • Pregnancy
  • Glandular and/or hormonal imbalances, including diseases causing these effects (i.e. PCOS condition in women)
  • Insulin resistance issues
  • Thyroid problems
  • Reactions to certain medications
  • Normal aging processes

Before starting laser treatments, patients with excessive hair growth on uncommon areas should explore possible underlying medical reasons for it. Hair removal methods can only impact hair that’s currently growing. They cannot prevent the body from developing new hair after treatments are completed.

Women with facial male-pattern growth are advised to see an endocrinologist to explore the possibility of PCOS or elevated testosterone levels. Men experiencing excessive growth can get tested for insulin resistance.