Capitol Hill's Premier Haircuts & Color

Emerson Salon is the best hair salon on Capitol Hill, Seattle. Our experienced hair stylists and colorists have been fusing the latest trends with top hair techniques for years. Whether you’re looking to transform your look in Seattle with a new haircut and color or just maintain your already hip style, we are here and ready to help.

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909 E Pike St, Seattle, WA 98122
T: 206-323-7437
@: emersonsalon@gmail.com

Articles from ‘Hair Care’

Tuesday, August 3rd, 2010

Stress and Your Hair- What You Should Know

Our hair is a very important part of our bodies, in more ways than one. Sure, it’s gorgeous and can be an excellent accessory, and can also be a great way of expressing your personal style, but did you know your hair is also a great indicator of your overall physical and emotional health?

Your hair can be one of the first and best signs of how your body’s doing. When you’re healthy, balanced and relaxed, your hair will be lustrous and shining. However, when you’ve been ill, or are stressed out, there can be many negative effects on your hair. “I once had a friend whose hair was going grey because she had a really stressful job,” says John, one of our stylists, “She left to go to a different job, and right away the graying stopped.” If we’re under a lot of stress, either mentally or physically, our hair can get dull and even start to fall out.

Typically, when we go through a period of high stress, our hair will go into the telogen phase, which means it stops growing, and about three months later, it will start to fall out. So if you notice an abnormal amount of hair loss, think back a couple months- it’s likely that you’ll find that you had been going through something stressful at that time. Hair can also get thinner and fall out when you are going through a great physical stressor such as childbirth, illness or surgery, since the body takes energy away from growing hair to focus on healing.

Fortunately, there are a lot of easy ways to combat stress and keep your hair looking healthy and beautiful. The easiest thing to keep yourself balanced is regular exercise and a good diet. Vitamins are really important for the health of your hair, so go heavy on foods rich in Vitamin B, like greens, fish, cheese and eggs; Vitamin A, like spinach, broccoli, tomatoes and melons; and Vitamin C, like citrus fruits and strawberries. All of these, as well as vitamin supplements, will keep your body balanced and keep your hair looking rich, as will foods rich in calcium, like cheese, milk and yogurt.

There are also many products that can help revamp your hair. “Conditioning treatments like Kevin Murphy’s Born Again and Staying Alive can help stressed hair by making sure your hair and scalp is in balance,” says our stylist Lancer. “You should definitely tell your hair dresser what’s going with your hair- hair professionals are the best treatments for damaged or unhappy hair.”

Stress will come out in different ways for people, and can be remedied by different treatments. “When I’m stressed, my scalp gets itchy,” says Andrea, our receptionist. “John just did a Moroccan Oil Dry-No-More Scalp treatment on me- and gave me a killer head massage- and I feel great!”

Whether your hair needs a boost of life to get it going again, or if you just want to make sure it’s at it’s healthiest, our stylists are always here to answer your questions and make sure your hair is always as beautiful as it can be. Give us a call and make your appointment today!

Post by Amelia

Thursday, February 25th, 2010

How to Pick the Best Hair Dryer

blow-dryer

Want to start heat styling your hair but don’t know where to start? These days it is difficult to know what hair appliance is best for you, your hair, lifestyle and budget. As hairstylists, we realize that investing in a professional level hair dryer may not fit your budget as they can run from $120-$500.

Here, we will outline the best tips on how to find that perfect hair dryer whether in the drugstore, beauty supply, or online. This way you can compare and contrast components and price and make an informed decision!

A lot of people prioritize their needs according to the following components:

Weight: This is important for two reasons. First, the heavier it is the more difficult it is to use and hold. It could cause your arm or shoulder to cramp up depending on how long it is used in one sitting.2) If you intend to travel you might want one that folds up in addition to being lighter in weight.

Wattage: Blowdryers range in wattage from 600w to 1875-1900 watts. What is the difference? Lower wattage dryers are good for finer hair as they take longer to dry the hair but also help to maintain hair health and sheen. Higher wattage dryers are good for dense, thick, wavy or curly hair. Higher wattage can also cut down on drying time but if used on the highest setting regularly can cause heat damage. (Heat damage is when the high heat burns through the hair cuticle in inconsistent spots making it more prone to moisture loss and breakage.) Also, be aware of the wattage as some older outlets will short out a fuse if it is not capable of carrying the load.

Technology: There is some debate among the haircare industry on certain types of newer hairdryer technology. Some have more scientific credo than others. Ceramic, Tourmaline, Ionic and Far Infrared technologies are some of the most commonly discussed. All have specific benefits to them, but some aren’t 100% proven: Generally, these sciences cut down on drying time with less damage than traditional appliances.

  • Ceramic: These dryers use ceramic plates or coils instead of metal and are intended to be self regulating to prevent inconsistent heat and therefore, damage.
  • Ionic: Use negatively charged ions to break down the water molecule in order to hydrate from the inside out. This encourages hair health and shine.
  • Tourmaline: Use a gemstone to increase the number of negative ions more than regular ionic dryers.
  • Far (FIR) Infrared: Use waves of energy invisible to the eye to deeply penetrate and slowly warm from the inside out. There are many studies on the health benefits on the body as well with FIR. This can include stimulated blood flow to the capillaries, elimination of bacteria, viruses, etc, and others.
  • Low EMF: this stands for lower electro-magnetic fields. These energies in large doses over time can cause,”headaches, anxiety, suicide and depression, nausea, fatigue and loss of libido. To date, scientific evidence does not support a link between these symptoms and exposure to electromagnetic fields,” says the World Health Organization. (http://www.who.int/peh-emf/about/WhatisEMF/en/index1.html) But if this sounds alarming, there are now hair dryer available in the low-emf category.

Attachments: Does the dryer include diffuser or concentration nozzle attachments? If so, you are getting more bang for your buck. If not, there are universal attachments you can purchase but are not guaranteed to fit your appliance. (A diffuser disperses the dryer flow to slowly dry wavy-curlier textures without frizz. Concentrators direct air flow to a more specific point and with a more specific direction. Example: You use the concentrator to point the air flow down the hair shaft to make the cuticle lay down for straightening.)

Pricing: Use this knowledge combined with your budget. Some dryers are great that are $25-40. Some are designed for lots of wear and tear for those who often drop or bang the appliance over its life. If you are concerned about its continued functionality, you can always get a warranty your appliance with the manufacturer in case of any problems.

Other heat tools: You can also apply this knowledge to buying a curling iron or flat iron as some of the same technologies are used in their heating elements.

Flat irons that get up to 300 to 450 degrees are best for thicker, wavier hair types and finer hair textures can use more moderate temperatures less than 300 degrees. We recommend a 1 1/2″- 2″ barrel size iron for the more versatility (it can create spiral curls, volume bumps, soft waves, etc.) Flat irons should have at least a 3-4″ length to cover the most surface and have the ability to curve or bevel the hair without too much work,. It is also possible with some technique and practice to create curl or wave with a flat iron by itself.

Another fun tool is a “wave runner” that has a triple barrel to create a consistent S shape to the hair sections. This gives the most controlled wave in less time.

Need some more help? Here are some specific recommendations:

Once your appliances are bought, come here for more heat styling tips! We’ve got lots of time conserving ideas and fun tips to create your own looks at home. Have fun and play!

post by D’Arcy

Sunday, February 14th, 2010

Spring Hair Care Tips

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As winter comes to a close in the next month and Spring graces us with it’s presence on March 20, there are a few things that need to be done to keep our hair looking good. Because as the weather changes, so do our hair care needs. While the harsh cold of the winter required extra conditioning and maybe even less styling due to the need to cover up in order to keep warm, spring presents new challenges – wind, rain, humidity and warmer temperatures.

The wind and humidity can be a tragic combination for hair if proper precautions are not taken. Frizz and split ends will run a muck, leaving a not so attractive look. You can combat this with just a few easy steps and products. For naturally curly or wavy hair, a little Moroccan Oil will go a long way. Apply to dry hair to smooth down the cuticle and fight the frizz and serve as an anti-humectant. It also aids in the prevention of split ends. For straight hair, where you don’t have to worry about frizz as much as split ends, use a leave in conditioner/thermal protector like Kevin Murphy’s Damage Manager. This is great especially for you flat iron junkies.

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In preparation for the warmer days, you want to be sure to use an essential treatment on your hair. Color treated or highlighted hair will benefit greatly from this. I highly recommend Born Again by Kevin Murphy, with shea butter and Omega 3 and Omega 6 that will absorb right into chemically treated hair and help revitalize as well as prevent any future damage.

For a lot of us, our hair is a bit neglected in the winter. A haircut is another way to not only whip your hair back into shape, but also give you a fresh new look for the new season. Short hair cuts are fun and fashionable in the warmer weather. Play with different versions of the classic bob or add some fringe to give a new twist to your old shape. For longer hair, shorter internal layering will add movement and remove dry, damaged ends.

For more tips, come visit our knowledgeable stylists here at Emerson Salon!

Post by Amanda

Tuesday, January 19th, 2010

Product of the Week: Moroccan Oil

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Moroccan Oil! This stuff is amazing! In fact the whole line works wonders. We can’t seem to keep this stuff on the shelves. Mainly because it is such a versatile product.

I absolutely love the Moroccan Oil Treatment for all hair types. And yes, you can literally use it for all hair types. Curly, straight, dry, thick, fine-this product is awesome. It moisturizes, protects from UV damage, conditions, helps smooth frizz, reduces flyaways, and smells great. All without leaving a heavy residue like a lot of other shine products.

Apply to damp hair before styling to minimize the frizz and protect from the blow dryer, or add a bit to dry hair to smooth, moisturize and fight flyaways. If you’re still not totally sold on this, we carry a small bottle for starters. You will be hooked!

Wednesday, December 30th, 2009

Corrective Color Explained

CorrectiveColor

Going from light to dark or dark to light?  Not sure what is considered a corrective color?  Why are corrective colors so pricey?  I’ve got the answers!

I will start with the obvious.  Dark to light.  This is almost always considered a corrective color.  The reason being is that is often at least a 2 or 3 step process.  This usually means that it requires a lot of time, product and knowledge.  Lifting hair color is a delicate process or at least should be if you want to keep the hair on your head.  Your stylist may recommend a color remover first and then a highlight to maintain the integrity of your hair.  It also almost impossible to quote a price over the phone.  You will want to make an appointment for a consultation beforehand.  Your stylist won’t be able to know what needs to be done until they have thoroughly examined the hair and you have agreed on a plan of action that will work for both of you.  Don’t try this at home!

Going from light to dark isn’t as tricky but should still be done professionally.  I have seen some green hair in my day from clients who have attempted this on their own.  Grocery store color is a big no-no.  This is usually because your hair has certain undertones to it that when mixed with “medium brown” color will turn green or kind of a swampy (for lack of a better word) brown.  If you are a blonde considering going several levels (shades) darker, your stylist will need to use a filler.  This is where it turns in to a corrective color.  A filler IS necessary and will prevent the hair from turning green and keep it from fading so quickly.  If you are just going a shade darker and don’t require a filler, then it wouldn’t necessarily be a corrective color.  That’s not to say you should do it yourself.  You wouldn’t want to turn it into a corrective color.  Again, Don’t try this at home!

Our stylists here at Emerson are hair color experts. So take my advice, squeeze a little extra out of your wallet the first time and avoid having to walk around with green hair. Our stylist knows what they are doing and know how to make your color shine!

Post by Amanda

Tuesday, December 1st, 2009

Pregnancy and Hair Care

So…you’re pregnant! Not only is your body changing, but so is your hair. Believe me, I know the feeling. I am twenty weeks along with my first pregnancy and I am realizing how much it actually affects things you would never even think about!

I have been looking into things via the internet and also chatting with friends who have children. Pregnancy will obviously affect everyone a bit differently – no two bodies are the same – but one thing I have heard frequently is the benefit it has on your hair.

During pregnancy, the expecting mom may notice that her hair feels a bit thicker. Typically, people lose anywhere from 50-100 hairs a day naturally. However, while pregnant more of your hair goes into what is called a ‘resting stage’ and the loss is a lot slower. You may also notice that eyebrows, eyelashes and yes, body hair becomes a bit thicker as well. Sorry about the last part ladies! Most of the time however, your hair will return to it’s normal state a few months after the baby comes along.

I have talked to a few moms to be who have had the actual texture of their hair change. Some from curly to straight and visa versa. This too should change back after time. So, moms-to-be, you can add all this to your ‘what to expect while expecting’ list as well. Though these changes may be a little easier to deal with than stretch marks and swollen feet. Nonetheless, I hope you enjoy every minute of it!

For more information on proper nutrition and other tips during pregnancy check out fertilefoods.com.

Post by Amanda

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Friday, November 20th, 2009

Winterblast! What about my hair?

With summer a fading memory and winter dead ahead, your house and car aren’t the only things that need winterizing! Your hair won’t be under a wool cap all winter, so try the following simple steps to keep your do looking fantastic through the snow, sleet and cold:

1. Work with your natural texture. If you’ve got curls, don’t fight them. The weather is sure to win! Careful with that flat iron – too much will only result in dry, dull hair. Try applying a curl activator, along with a shine serum, to damp hair. Next, take small sections and twist. Finish off with a diffuser.

2. Try adding a few drops of an essential oil, like lavender or tea tree, to your daily conditioner 1-2 times a week. This will not only add some extra shine to your hair and help to condition your scalp, but will smell great too.

3. Your diet also has a lot to do with the health of your hair, skin and nails. Drinking plenty of water and eating foods high in Omega 3 will boost the shine and integrity of your hair.

Stay tuned for my next post on how to keep your skin and lips looking and feeling great through the winter as well.

-Amanda

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Emerson Salon 909 E Pike St Seattle (Haircuts & Color)
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Friday, November 13th, 2009

Winterblast! What about my hair?

With summer a fading memory and winter dead ahead, your house and car aren’t the only things that need winterizing! Your hair won’t be under a wool cap all winter, so try the following simple steps to keep your do looking fantastic through the snow, sleet and cold:

1. Work with your natural texture. If you’ve got curls, don’t fight them. The weather is sure to win! Careful with that flat iron – too much will only result in dry, dull hair. Try applying a curl activator, along with a shine serum, to damp hair. Next, take small sections and twist. Finish off with a diffuser.

2. Try adding a few drops of an essential oil, like lavender or tea tree, to your daily conditioner 1-2 times a week. This will not only add some extra shine to your hair and help to condition your scalp, but will smell great too.

3. Your diet also has a lot to do with the health of your hair, skin and nails. Drinking plenty of water and eating foods high in Omega 3 will boost the shine and integrity of your hair.

Stay tuned for my next post on how to keep your skin and lips looking and feeling great through the winter as well.

-Amanda

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Emerson Salon 909 E Pike St Seattle (Haircuts & Color)
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Monday, August 31st, 2009

How to Achieve A Short Blonde Texture Cut

My client Heather has great hair to work with. It is fine, thick, and loves texture! She tells me that she gets compliments on her haircut all the time.
How to get this short, sassy, yet trendy look?
  • First, I cut Heather’s hair in a short style, with a razor.
  • She also likes highlights, so I foil her hair.
  • She gets her hair trimmed every 5 weeks, and we maintain her highlights every 2 1/2 months. This keeps her color fresh and isn’t damaging to her hair.

“Great, but how does she care for her hair at home?”
Great question!
  • She shampoos her hair every other day.
  • She uses Kevin Murphy’s Sticky Business, a very fibrous, firm matte holding product that we carry at the salon, to give her hair volume, texture, hold, and to define her style!
-posted by Lancer

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Friday, July 31st, 2009

Transitioning Your Hair to Fall

Balayage is an excellent option for transitioning your damaged blond to a light caramel brown fall hue. It’s all in the application & conditioning process mastered by your color professionals at Emerson. Give your ends a splash of gold & deep conditioning while fanning a warm brown through the routes as Gisele Bundchan has done for years, to create a crescendo of color that looks natural & rich. Top off your new color with some free flowing waves or smooth & sleek long layers. Our Caviar system is ideal for treating dry, sun-kissed locks post color.




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