Progressive Hair Design Consultation

Good communication with a stylist you can trust is one of the key components toward arriving at the look you envision. The way you will know if a stylist has your interests in mind is by engaging with them in a discussion about styles that appeal to you. It is always a good idea to bring in a picture if you can, to better describe the look you are striving to achieve.

Our style lounge offers an open relaxed atmosphere where you can feel confident expressing exactly what appeals to you as well as what doesn't, with the knowledge that we have the ability and talent to achieve the look you are after. This is your time in the chair and our aim is to give you the quality moments you deserve by delivering what you want, ergo complimenting you and your lifestyle.

Precision Hair Cutting

The way hair performs is dependent on the cut and the style working in tandem. Most cuts, if they are precisely mastered, can be styled many different ways. Our purpose is to work with you to develop a precision cut tailored to your facial features that moves with your lifestyle. We want to become the hair specialists you trust to advise you about your hair and offer you the best styling products and solutions to achieve a look you can easily replicate at home.

Full Color Services

Goldwell
www.goldwellusa.com

Redken
www.redken.com

We choose to promote and carry only those products we believe are the most healthy, gentle and effective for your hair. So far we have found Goldwell and Redken come closest to preserving the hair's natural structure while providing vibrant, long-lasting color and superb gray coverage. Our colorists are seasoned artists and designers that know hair chemistry and apply the latest technology to accomplish masterful one step and dimensional color looks. We take mindful measures to ensure you will receive the finest results. At Peacock, we stand behind all our chemical services with a full guarantee that you will be satisfied with the outcome.

Please visit our chemical services web page  to learn more.

Luxurious Conditioning & Rejuvenating Treatments

The condition and health of your hair and skin are affected by your chemical biology and reflects what you put into your body, the environment and your lifestyle. Everyone benefits from a little touch therapy, pampering and vitamin treatments now and again to revitalize and replenish and keep their body healthy. At Peacock, you've come to the right place to chill. We offer unique and simple treatments we call "mini-escapes" that last 10 to15 minutes. We developed them as simple little "refreshers" to take the edge off stress from your crazy schedule and ease you back into the day with renewed vigor and zest.

Stop in for a stress-melting hand, arm, neck or mini foot massage, or slide back in a chair and enjoy an herbal facial towel wrap that refreshes your skin, calms your frayed nerves, and leaves you suspended in time for just a moment of glorious rest while your cares drift away. Lounge on the spa couch with an herbal neck pillow and give in to our vegan scalp rejuvenators made from all natural ingredients such as olive, yogurt, avocado, carrot, ginger and citrus fruit. Stop in for any one of these spa services during your lunch hour to decompress and you'll be back to work ready to tackle any task anew. It's the least expensive and shortest vacation you will ever take.

Request any of these services in conjunction with having another service such as a color, scalp treatment or herbal facial:

Nail Conditioning/Buffing. Improves the look of tired nails for both men and women.

Hand & Arm, Neck or Foot Massage. Your choice. Experience the power of soothing, luxurious release through reflexology in minutes.

Hot Herbal Towel Facial or Hand Conditioner. A sensuous, refreshing lift. Wraps you skin in a moist, warm, pillowy blanket of sheer softness and a calming scent. The ultimate refresher.

Herb and Vitamin Scalp Treatment. Feed your head and your hair. A relaxing and stimulating experience that rejuvenates the hair and heals that scalp.

Hair Extensions

If you are looking for a way to have more control over your hairstyle without waiting months for your hair to grow to a length you can work with, extensions may be a viable alternative.

There are many different ways to achieve the look you want with extensions. Currently the market has been flooded with these popular techniques:

• Fusion
• Micro Rings, Eurolocs and Hairlocs
• Shrink Links, Shrinkies and Shrink Tubes

Each method has its own unique strengths and weaknesses. As you research your options you will find there are numerous choices available. As you try to discern what might be the best solution for your individual situation, it's very helpful to consult with a hair extension specialist who is well versed in the pros and cons of several methods. To ensure you are dealing with a credible stylist look for these key elements:

• Referrals are always a key first step to finding the right technician.
• Be sure the stylist is certified and has their credentials on hand.
• A website with photos or a portfolio of extension work by the stylist is a helpful resource.
• Stylists that actually wear extensions provide viable testimony. That way, you have proof the stylist knows first hand exactly what it's like to care for the hair and go through the maintenance and replacement process.

Once you have located a trustworthy stylist, during the consultation, be sure to ask the following questions:

• Ask the technician how long they have been working with extensions and if they have a steady clientele. As with any service, the more often it's done, the more skilled the technician becomes.
• Ask to see the hair product. Observe the quality and the bundling. The wefts or bundles should be securely bound to ensure the hair does not shed from the bundle. The hair should feel luxuriously soft and full of body. Superior hair is defined by the term "Remy" which means the cuticles are intact and all falling in the same direction to prevent tangling.
• Ask where the hair originated from. The top quality hair used in extensions today comes from Europe, Asia and India - with European hair being the most expensive.
• Ask what ingredients and properties make up the bonding agent. You want to avoid getting involved with products that have too many synthetic types of glue or mixtures of glues and chemicals that could over time weaken or disintegrate the hair. Pure keratin bond is among the healthiest and gentle to apply and the least damaging to remove.
• Ask if the extensions will tangle or shed.
• Ask what product or process is applied to remove the extensions.
• Find out what type of maintenance plan is needed and how often you should visit the salon.

There are several key points the technician should review during the consultation to select the most appropriate method and provide the best results for the client:

• How long do you plan to wear the extensions?
• What is the condition of your hair?
• What is your hair type?
• Describe your lifestyle?
• What is the result you desire?
• What level of commitment are you willing to invest to maintain the extensions?

Are you willing to:

• Come in for regular appointments
• Use professional maintenance products regularly
• Apply the proper brushing techniques and other care and maintenance procedures
• What is your budget?
• Are extensions affordable for you?

In order to make an informed decision whether or not extensions would be right for you, consider the following:

• Hair extensions should be easy for the stylist to apply and not cause the client any discomfort.
• The extensions must stay securely in the hair for a reasonable amount of time (3 - 6 months) without problems of slipping or shedding.
• Extensions must be non-damaging for the client's hair and scalp
• Extensions must be easy to remove.
• Clients should be able to get the full value from the product without concern, as long as they diligently follow the care instructions for the product.

Monthly maintenance appointments should always be offered and booked within a 4-5 week gap after installation. It is always good policy not to miss your "check-up" to ensure that your extensions are in good condition and securely intact after hair growth.

Adjustments and touch-ups are made during the appointment time. It is good practice to keep a maintenance log for reference and should include results on the after-care products used. Avoid using shampoos and conditioners that are full of amino acids that can break down the bonds. A good extension consultant will be able to cater to any client that comes to the salon.

In this day and age of immediate gratification, Hair Extensions have become a very popular and convenient way of enhancing your hair style while you wait for your natural hair to grow. As we have reviewed, there are a wide variety of choices to extend your hair or address hair loss issues. However, there is a shortage of fully qualified technicians who are well versed in various procedures and application techniques. If installed correctly, extensions are very enjoyable and non-damaging. Clients that make the commitment wear them for years and can't imagine being without them. Extensions provide the option for control over personal style.

Care and Maintenance

Caring for your hair extensions and maintaining good condition is a commitment. Always follow the instructions given to you by your stylist to ensure the lifespan and effectiveness of your product.

Washing. Keep your hair clean. Hair has a tendency to tangle when dirt and sweat build up. Therefore, be sure to wash your hair thoroughly after any active sport or exercise. Brush your hair and remove all tangles before washing. When you wash, apply a downward stroking motion. Apply a good quality shampoo, one your stylist will recommend for best results. When too much water is added all at once to very dry hair, in some cases, the cuticle can swell up and tangle. Wet the hair gradually and brush gently before completely washing it.

Styling. When brushing, use a soft-bristle brush. Start at the ends of your hair and gently work your way up. Always brush in a downward motion. Do not brush harshly or rapidly. Apply slow, even strokes. Brush your hair 2-3 times per day. Heat is one of your extension hair's biggest enemies. The more you apply heat, the shorter the lifespan of your hair extensions. Proceed with caution using blow dryers, flat or curling irons. The best option is to let your hair dry naturally.

Exercise. Wear a cap when swimming to prevent your hair from getting wet. Chlorine and salt water can cause the hair to tangle and mat. It is recommended that you wear your hair up in a ponytail when you swim or exercise.

Sleeping. Never sleep on wet hair. Make sure your hair is completely dry before you go to bed. It is also recommended that you wrap your hair, gently tie it up, or put it in a loose ponytail to prevent tangling.

The Peacock Preference

So.Cap is the preferred and trusted method of choice at Peacock Style & Color Lounge. Because So.Cap has an all-natural keratin bond, it is gentle and non-damaging to the hair. The So.Cap brand is easy to apply and comfortable for the client to wear. The hair is highest-quality Remy, which means the cuticles are intact and therefore the hair does not tangle or shed. So.Cap is a 100% real human hair product that is attached to the hair with a pure keratin bond or cold fusion. Depending on the application process, the hair is guaranteed to last from 3 - 8 weeks. So.Cap will only sell their products to licensed stylists that are certified in hair extension application. So.Cap comes in 81 colors, the highest possible range of colors on the market, thereby offering the client the best possible match as well as a variety of fantasy color options. So.Cap brand is the most adaptable to the scalp and the remover solution is an all-natural product that is acetone free. Making the decision to have extensions is an investment in you that involves commitment. Consider all the facts and options wisely before jumping ahead.

Some Useful Information about Hair Straightening

If you are one of those people the world calls "lucky" enough to be graced with naturally curly hair, you may not always share that same opinion.  For those who are interested in maintaining style, the bulk of your morning routine is tending to your hair.  Most people with wavy or curly hair don't have the luxury of 30 minutes to spend blow drying their hair straight.  Well, here are some effective solutions for you...... 

Introduction

When you have naturally curly hair you basically have two options.  You can accept it "as is" or you can straighten it with a few different options.  If you decide to straighten it you can do it chemically or you can do it with products that are applied on a day by day basis. 

If you decide to straighten your hair, both the chemical and day to day versions have positive and negative considerations.  The most common reason that people decide to have their hair straightened is to eliminate curls.  Sometimes this process will be used also to soften or eliminate wavy hair.  Chemical hair straightening, also known as relaxing, involves a process where the basic structure of overly curly or wavy hair is changed into a straight form.

Both relaxing and permanent waving utilize fairly strong chemicals that are applied directly to the hair shaft.  However, their objectives are reversed.  While a perm is designed to add curls or waves, a relaxing treatment is designed to remove them. 

Consult A Professional 

Chemical hair straightening is not a difficult procedure, but it does require a thorough technical knowledge of the relaxing process.  Therefore it should always be performed by a hair care professional with a track record of success with straightening. It is best to have the relaxing process performed by a professional so that they can perform a strand test to determine the recommended strength of the relaxer to be used. The stylist will also need to evaluate current hair texture, porosity, elasticity and the presence or absence of any hair damage.  

Fine, chemically lightened or colored hair generally requires a very mild relaxing formula. Normal, medium-textured virgin hair can tolerate regular strength relaxers.   Coarse virgin hair may require a strong or super relaxing formula.  The professional will be able to determine the best type of relaxing formula based on the results of a strand test and by looking at and touching the hair to be treated.

A good salon professional keeps detailed records of any chemical relaxing treatments that have been performed on the hair and can use those written records to determine the best course of treatment. 

Hair Strand Test 

A professional hair stylist that is well versed in chemical straightening will always do a strand test on any hair that is to be treated.  This not only protects the client's hair but helps the stylist determine the best type of formula to use, whether to use a conditioner-filler on the hair before applying the chemicals and whether a base petroleum protection layer is needed or not.

A strand test can be done in a variety of ways which include: 

1. Pulling the hair to determines its degree of elasticity.
2. Applying a small amount of relaxer to determine the hair reactions to the chemicals.
3. A finger test. 

Products Used During Chemical Hair Relaxing 

The following products are generally used in chemical hair relaxing procedures:

• chemical hair relaxer formula
• neutralizer
• petroleum cream
• shampoos designed specifically for relaxers
• hair relaxing conditioners

There are three basic steps that are performed during a hair relaxing process.   The steps generally include the following: 

1. A protective petroleum cream may or may not be applied as protection to the scalp & previously relaxed or damaged hair.  A chemical hair relaxing formula is applied to soften, loosen and relax the natural curls. 
2. After the hair has "cooked" or been processed for the appropriate time limits, the chemicals are completely rinsed from the hair with warm water. A neutralizing formula is then applied to the hair.  The neutralization process oxidizes and restores the hair's pH because a high pH, as a result of the relaxing, can cause the hair to swell and break.
3. A conditioner is applied to the hair.  Depending on the condition of the hair to be relaxed, the conditioner may be applied before the relaxing formula, after or sometimes it may even be applied before and after.  Two types of conditions are available.  These include the cream conditioners and the protein or liquid conditioners. 

Overly curly hair that contains damage from ongoing use of heat appliances or other chemicals may need to be conditioned before relaxer can be applied.  In the case where the hair is severely damaged, it may be best not to apply a chemical relaxer until the hair has had a chance to recover. 

In other cases a conditioner-filler is required before the chemical relaxer can be applied to dry hair.  These fillers protect hair that may be overly porous or hair that is slightly damaged from being over-processed. 

Sodium Hydroxide, Guanidine Hydroxide & Ammonium Thioglycolate

There are three basic types of hair relaxers.  These are sodium hydroxide and guanidine hydroxide which may or may not require pre-shampooing, and ammonium thioglycolate, which may require a pre-shampooing. 

Sodium Hydroxide 

Sodium hydroxide is the strongest of the three relaxers and will provide the most dramatic results. Sodium hydroxide is a caustic type of chemical that actually softens hair fibers.  The chemical also causes the hair to swell at the same time.  As the sodium hydroxide solution is applied to the hair, it penetrates into the cortical layer and breaks the cross-bonds. 

The cortical layer is actually the middle or inner layer of the hair shaft that provides the strength, elasticity and shape of the curly hair. 

Depending on various factors and the condition of the hair to be straightened, the strength of the sodium hydroxide solution may vary anywhere from 5 to 10 percent.   The pH faction may vary from 10 to 14.  The higher the strength of sodium hydroxide, the higher the pH and the faster the straightening solution will take hold.   

Also, the stronger the solution, the more potential damage can occur to the hair. Sodium hydroxide contains a high alkaline content and so special care should always be used when applying this chemical. 

Guanidine Hydroxide 

Guanidine hydroxide relaxers are referred to as the "no-lye" relaxers and they tend to be less damaging than sodium hydroxide relaxers. These products, however, still may do some damage to the hair.  It can definitely de-fat the scalp. 

Guanidine hydroxide relaxers usually require conditioning treatments before and after. These relaxers are a mixture of calcium hydroxide cream with guanidine carbonate "activator" solution. 

Ammonium Thioglycolate 

Ammonium thioglycolate (nicknamed "thio relaxer") is much less drastic in its action than the sodium hydroxide and even, in some cases, the guanidine hydroxide.   It acts a little differently by softening and relaxing overly curly hair through changes to the hair's cystine linkage. 

Thio works on the same formulation principles as thioglycolate permanent waves. With a pH of 9-9.5, these are also considered to be less damaging, yet still require a neutralization step. Thioglycolate relaxers are usually in cream or gel form and can be preceded by a pre-softener. 

Since thio relaxers are considered much milder, the risk of hair damage is also reduced by comparison to the sodium hydroxide. 

Petroleum Cream/Base Cream 

A protective base of petroleum cream is usually applied to the scalp and other areas of the hair that have been previously straightened to prevent over processing, hair breakage or burning and/or irritation of the scalp and skin.

The protective base is applied freely to the entire scalp with the fingers.  The hairline around the forehead, nape of the neck and over and under the ears must be completely covered.  The base should actually lay on the scalp and should not be spread or rubbed into the skin or scalp. 

The relaxer formula must never come in contact with sores or abrasions on the scalp of the skin and should never make contact with the eyes. 

The cream that is used as a base for relaxing is lighter than regular petroleum jelly and is designed to melt at body temperatures.  As the cream melts is provides a complete protective covering over the scalp and other desired areas with an oily film.   This film acts as a barrier against the straightening chemicals. 

Some relaxing solutions are mild enough that they do not require the protective petroleum base application.  The petroleum cream may or may not be required for the thio type of softening process.  However, it would be more likely required for sodium hydroxide relaxing treatments. 

Whether a relaxing formula requires the petroleum cream or not, it is always best to use a protective cream around the hairline and over the delicate ear areas.  It is also best to apply a base during any chemical "retouching".  It is advisable not to reapply a straightening formula to hair that has been previously straightened since there is a high risk of breakage or damage. 

How The Chemical Is Applied 

The stylist will use their hands or some other appropriate straightening tools to distribute the chemical solution onto completely dry hair (if the Thio Relaxer is applied the hair may be wet). 

If the hair has any moisture or perspiration, it must be dried first before applying the relaxing solution (if not the Thio Relaxer). Then the solution will be carefully combed through the hair and the hair will be pulled straight.

The relaxing solution is harsh and will be only left on for a few minutes (average time is 5-8 minutes but will vary depending on a variety of factors).  The longer the relaxing solution is left on, the longer the effects will last and the straighter the hair will be.  However, the longer the solution is left on, the more risk there is of damage to the hair. 

Avoid combing through your hair while it is being straightened.  The straightening process affects the hair's natural elasticity.  When it is combed out, it may stretch out to over twice its normal length and it is very fragile and easy to break. 

Neutralizer 

After the relaxer is completely shampooed and rinsed out with warm water (it can not be hot or cold and must be warm) a neutralizer solution is added to halt the relaxing process and restore the pH balance to the hair.  The neutralizer is also known as a stabilizer or fixative.  The neutralizer for a thio type of relaxer will actually re-form the cysteine cross-bonds in their new position and re-hardens the hair. 

From the time that the relaxing chemicals are removed and the hair is shampooed and than stabilized, the hair is extremely fragile and should be handled carefully. 

Sometimes the chemicals will leave a reddish cast on the hair.  When this happens the stylist can apply a special color rinse to remove the red cast.  Sometimes this cast is not evident until the hair has been dried.  The color rinse may be applied to dry hair as well. 

Conditioned, Dried & Set 

It is advisable to use a good conditioner to restore some of the natural oils that have been removed by the chemicals.  The conditioner is applied after the neutralizer is rinsed out and after the hair is first towel dried.  After the conditioner is applied, the hair can be set in rollers and gently dried or styled and air dried. 

Post Relaxing Treatment 

Once hair has been relaxed it will require special ongoing treatment to protect the hair and maintain the effects of the straightening.  If the newly relaxed hair is not treated with special care it can become brittle and stiff and "see through".   Relaxed hair is more porous and tends to hold on to dulling residue. Therefore it is very important to rinse out shampoo and other hair products thoroughly. 

Relaxed hair will also break more easily.  Use a good detangling/ leave in conditioning product and a wide pick with smooth teeth to detangle wet hair.  Work from the bottom of your hair up towards the roots.  Take your time and be very gentle. 

Regular deep conditioning is a must on hair that is chemically relaxed.  Plan on doing a deep conditioning treatment once or twice a week and more if your hair needs it.  You can use a high quality deep conditioning treatment. 

Newly relaxed hair tends to become a lot drier.  Use a moisturizing shampoo designed for chemically treated hair can help to make the hair feel softer and healthier.  If you prefer, there are some all natural chemical free shampoos on the market that actually help chemically treated hair maintain balance.

Use a good rinse out or leave-in conditioner as well.  Chemically treated hair requires more careful and delicate treatment. If your hair does not respond well to the extra deep conditioning treatments you may want to do some moisture reconstructing treatments. 

The only sure way to restore the appearance of chemically processed hair is through the application of good conditioning products.  Chemical processing can erode the hair and damage the cuticle. 

Conditioners will smooth the damaged outer surface of the hair by coating the hair and by putting back oils and proteins that chemical processing strips away.

When possible, limit the use of hot blow dryers and hot styling tools.  If you must use a blow dryer, use on the coolest heat and apply a good protective leave in conditioner first. 

Hot Oil Treatment 

Heat enough sesame, almond or olive oil to saturate your hair in a saucepan or in the microwave.   Make sure it is just warm to the touch and not too hot.  Dab the warm olive oil on the roots of your hair with a cotton ball.  Wrap the hair in a plastic shower cap, cover with a hot towel and wait for at least 30 minutes.  Shampoo and rinse.   For extra conditioning, towel dry the hair and then apply a good leave in conditioner. 

Note:  Sesame and almond oil is much lighter than olive.  Also, olive oil should not be used on colored hair since it may accelerate hair color fading.

When possible, leave the hot oil on the hair for longer periods of time. Overnight is a great option (although somewhat messy). 

General Relaxing Facts

Excessive use of relaxers can be hard on hair.  The most typical misuse is not stopping with the regrowth only. It has become increasingly popular to have hair professionally straightened at the salon but do relaxing touchups on the new root growth at home.  If you use one of the popular kits, do not overlap the chemicals onto your already straightened hair or breakage can result. 

Even though there are still some risks of burning, breaking or damaging the hair, sodium hydroxide is still the most popular straightening procedure in use today.  In the hands of a pro it does successfully soften and change the texture of the hair which allows it be transformed into dozens of different hair styles.

Part of the popularity of chemical relaxing stems from the fact that the effects are more lasting.  The day to day straightening options often do not last from shampoo to shampoo. 

Typically a strong relaxing treatment will last up to 6-months depending on the hair's texture and growth.  Most experts agree that hair should be relaxed no more than every three months.  While relaxing may make hair more manageable and easier to control, one misstep can cause terrible hair damage as well.

Avoid relaxing hair and then coloring it at the same time.  This can be very risky for the hair.  If you absolutely must color and relax your hair in the same time period it is best to relax the hair first and then wait 2-4 weeks before color is applied. 

Summary 

Chemical straightening actually rearranges the basic structure of overly curly hair so that is straight.  There are three basic types of chemical hair relaxers.   These formulas range from the heavy duty sodium hydroxide and the less intense ammonium thioglycolate or "thio" formula.  Guanidine hydroxide relaxers are referred to as the "no-lye" relaxers. 

Although some people do choose to straighten their own hair at home, to prevent damage and burns to the skin and scalp, it is strongly recommended that this process be performed by a professional with a prior record of straightening experience. 

Once hair has been chemically straightened it requires extra special care to overcome the effects of the drying chemicals.  Relaxed hair will require deep conditioning treatments at least 1-2 times a week.  Be sure to use a good detangling product and to use a wide toothed comb to detonable from the ends of the hair to the roots. 

While straightening will offer a new range of hair styles, it should not be undertaken lightly because it may damage the hair and it will require a new commitment to post relaxing conditioning and special hair care.