HairBoutique Blog

Using a razor to cut hair is not new.  In fact, it’s been used by hairdressers for many years.

Some of the best hairstylists use razors to create dramatic and high fashion styles for runways.  Which explains why razor hair cutting is more popular in Europe than in the United States.  Many in the hair profession believe to achieve the most finished results for a tailored hair cut, the razor is the best hair cutting tool to use.

Note: For some images of razored hairstyles check out:  Razor Sharp: Shredded, Chopped & Sliced Hair

Vivian MacKinder, my own personal hairdressing heroine (who I recently saw and interviewed at Cosmoprof 2009), is probably one of the most skilled hair cutters with a razor of any hair professional I have yet to meet in the hair world.  Watching Vivian work with a razor is like watching a sculptor with their special tools.

Note: To read more about the amazing Vivian MacKinder please check out:  The Evolution Of Vivienne MacKinder

Vivian visited the Paul Mitchell school when I was there attending classes and demonstrated several of her techniques.  It was one of the highlights of my attendance at the school.  She also make some very special hair cutting razors available for purchase.  Yes I did buy the razor with some back blades. (more…)

Hairdressers and stylists who cut lots of hair on a regular basis must find the very best shears for their hands and fingers.  It is their most important tool.

(Image of 100% handmade Elite Shear from Shark Fin® Shears - All Rights Reserved).

Risk Of Carpel Tunnel Nerve Damage

Not only will this cutting tool allow the hairdresser to create the very best hair cuts and styles for their clients, it will also protect from over extension of the middle finger, which reduces carpal tunnel nerve damage and other health related problems caused by improperly fitted shears.

Traditional shear design allows your hand to misalign causing dexterity strain and other pressure. (more…)

One of the best experiences of my life, was attending a Paul Mitchell The School located here in Texas.

At the school I attended along with all of the Paul Mitchell The Schools, the students are referred to as “future professionals” which is a welcome title to carry.

(Image of Paul Mitchell the school in Cosa Mesa, California - Paul Mitchell - All Rights Reserved - 2009).

Paul Mitchell schools don’t just focus on teaching students about hair.  Many of the schools also offer courses for aesthetic students which my school did.

Note: If you wish to consider attending Paul Mitchell the school visit this link to find a school that works for you. (more…)

Recently I received an email about an article I had written about long hair informing me the author was obviously “clueless” about the topic.

Maybe I’m indeed clueless about long hair, but after having long hair (6″ below my waist and holding strong) since 1988 I think I have some insider’s knowledge of the topic.

Not to mention my experiences going to cosmetology school and writing over 3,000 articles about hair topics (consumer and professional) over the past 10+ years.

(Credits: Hair: Sunnie Brook Jones, Photographer: Sean Armenta, Makeup: Jennifer Thorington, Creative Consultants: Lucie Doughty - Paul Mitchell - All Rights Reserved).

It should be noted the writer of the “you’re clueless about long hair” email was promoting their own hair website and letting me know I should be using their work instead of my own articles.  OK.  Well a little strange way to make a new friend, but whatever.

At any rate, the number one email I am receiving right now is about a wide range of home hair coloring disasters.  It is very frustrating to me because it’s impossible to really help someone with a hair color disaster via email, or even over the phone. (more…)

Everyone wants to get the very best haircut possible.  Are there tricks which can guarantee you a great haircut?

Yes, consider the following great haircut commandments listed below:

1. Avoid Getting Your Hair Cut On A Whim
Avoid getting your hair cut on a whim or because of an emotional trauma like a break-up or losing your job.

If you want to guarantee a disastrous haircut go to a new hair cutter at a new salon right after ending a relationship, a friendship, a job or any other emotionally upsetting experience.

2.  Do Your Research
If you are going to a new salon or stylist, do lots of advance research on their reputation.

Find several clear examples of haircuts you want to have created for your hair.  Make sure the images show the front, the back and the side.   Take some time before your appointment to look at a variety of hair sites on the web to get haircut and hairstyle ideas.  (more…)