child's hair

Protective Styling: How Braids Can Help Maintain Healthy Hair

February 14, 2025 by jacksonville

Braids can be beneficial for maintaining healthy hair in several ways, including:

1. Reduced Hair Breakage

Braiding your hair can help protect it from environmental damage, such as wind or sun exposure. It keeps strands together, reducing the risk of tangling and breakage from friction.

2. Less Manipulation

Wearing braids means you’re styling your hair less frequently. Constant combing, brushing, or heat styling can weaken hair over time, so braids help minimize the need for daily styling.

3. Protection from Split Ends

Since braids keep the ends of your hair secured, they can reduce the chances of split ends, especially if you’re using the right type of braid that doesn’t pull too tightly.

4. Retains Moisture

Braids can help retain moisture by protecting hair from drying out. When hair is braided, it is less exposed to air, which can help prevent it from becoming dry and brittle.

5. Promotes Hair Growth

While braids themselves don’t directly stimulate hair growth, they do create a protective style that prevents breakage and allows hair to grow without as much damage. Some people also find that braiding helps maintain their natural curl pattern or texture, contributing to overall hair health.

6. Reduces Frizz:

Braids can help smooth out the hair shaft, reducing frizz and flyaways. This is especially beneficial for those with curly or wavy hair.

7. Protective Styles for Natural Hair:

For those with natural or textured hair, braids can offer a low-maintenance protective style that minimizes the need for heat styling or frequent manipulation, both of which can damage delicate hair textures.

Although braids can be a great style for obtaining health hair, be careful with tight braids, as they can cause tension and lead to breakage or even traction alopecia. Always make sure your braids are comfortable and not pulling too tightly! Click the link below to review of our previous blog posts on hair braiding.

Holiday Hair: Festive Looks for the Holiday Season

December 10, 2024 by jacksonville

Holiday hair for kids can be fun, festive, and easy to do, whether you’re preparing for a family gathering, school party, or just enjoying the season at home. Here are some cute and creative ideas to try out.

Wreath Crown Braid

What You’ll Need:
– Hair elastics
– Bobby pins
– Green ribbon
– Hair bow
– Red string of beads (Optional)

Rudolph Bun

What You’ll Need:
– Hair elastics
– Bobby pins
– Red puff ball
– Googly eyes
– Brown pipe cleaners
– Hot glue gun
– Bun maker (optional)

Christmas Tree Braids

What You’ll Need
– Hair elastics
– Green Ribbon
– Star Hair Clip
– Small decorative clips (Optional)

These styles are super adaptable depending on the length and texture of the child’s hair and can work for both casual holiday fun or more formal occasions. Plus, they give you a chance to get extra creative with your accessories! Click the link below to view our previous blogs from this year.

Halloween Spooky Hairstyles

October 26, 2024 by jacksonville

With Halloween right around the corner, here are some fun and creative Halloween hairstyle tutorials to complement your spooky or festive look!

1. Ghost Bun

Achieve this look by parting the hair down the middle and forming buns at the top of the hair. Tissue is placed at the top of the buns and shaped into a ghost. Eyes and mouth can be drawn on tissue using a black marker.

Items needed to achieve the Ghost Bun:

– Hair elastics

– Comb

– A box of tissues

– Black marker

– Hairspray

2. Creepy Crawly Bun

The next style involves parting the hair down the middle and dutch braiding each section from the bottom up, ending with buns on top. Spider rings are then placed throughout the braids.

Items needed to achieve the Creepy Crawly Bun:

– Hair elastics

– Comb

– Spider rings

– Hairspray

– Bobby pins (Optional)

Eye Bubble Braids

This style includes parting the hair down the middle and placing hair elastics in sections 1 inch apart. Eyeballs are placed between each elastic.

Items needed to achieve the Eye Bubble Braid look:

– Colorful hair elastics

– Plastic eyeballs

– Spider rings (Optional)

Creepy Crawly Hair

This last style includes using hair gel to spike the hair up and coloring with green hair spray. Bobby pins with creepy bugs are then placed throughout the hair

Items needed to achieve the Creepy Crawly look:

– Strong hold hair gel

– Creepy toy bugs

– Hot glue (Optional)

– Bobby pins or hair clips (Optional)

– Green temporary hair color spray (Optional)

The styles above will make a Halloween to remember. Check out the link below for some of our previous blog articles and tips.

Exploring Traditional Braiding Hairstyles From Around The World

October 15, 2024 by jacksonville

Braiding hairstyles represent a rich and diverse tradition found in many cultures around the globe. Here are some traditional braiding styles from various regions:

1. Dutch Braid (Netherlands)

Similar to the French braid, this style braids the sections of hair under rather than over, creating a braid that stands out from the scalp.

2. Fishtail Braid (Various cultures) –

This intricate braid is created by dividing the hair into two sections and crossing small pieces from each section over the other.

3. French Braid

French Braid (France) – This timeless braid involves adding sections of hair from the sides as you weave, resulting in a braid that lies flat against the scalp.

4. Cornrows (West Africa)

A traditional African style where hair is braided very close to the scalp in neat, straight rows, often featuring elaborate patterns.

5. Box Braids (West Africa)

This technique involves dividing the hair into small sections and braiding each one individually, known for its versatility and durability.

These braids are not only beautiful but also often carry cultural meanings and practical functions. Click the link below to review our previous blog articles highlighting braids.

Q&A Session with our Salon Manager Joy Johnson at Pigtails and Crewcuts Jacksonville

September 10, 2024 by jacksonville

With our latest blog post we’re thrilled to bring you a special Q&A segment featuring Joy Johnson, our Salon Manager! Joy has been an integral part of our Pigtails & Crewcuts family for over a year and has extensive experience in the Cosmetology industry. Let’s dive into the Q&A that will allow you to get to know Joy better.

1. Why did you decide to become a Hair Stylist?

“I did hair a lot when I was a child and its something that always stuck with me. As I got older, I started practicing on friends and family.”

2. Where did you receive your cosmetology training and how many years of experience do you have?

“During my last two years of high school, I was able to obtain my cosmetology license. Once I graduated from high school, I was able to take my state test three months later, so I’ve been a hair stylist since 2002.”

3. What do you love most about working at Pigtails & Crewcuts?

“I enjoy having the space and time allotted to deliver a comfortable and happy experience for both parents and children, especially during an experience that can be scary and traumatizing for some children.”

4. Getting a haircut can be a frightening experience for a child. What are some methods you use for calming them down and gaining their trust?

“I just talk them through it by explaining every move I make and the reasoning behind it.”

5. What are some of your favorite products to work with at Pigtails and Crewcuts?

“Johnny B Fuddy, G, Hold Tight, & Hold Up. These are good products to use depending on hair texture. They can all be used for a slick hold/combover, or even a spiked style. Fairy Tales clarifying shampoo is also great for removing product and chlorine from the hair. Sprouts curl calmer is the best for all hair types, and it is a great base product. “

6. What advice would you give to others who want to become a hair stylist or new graduates?

“Stretching, staying hydrated, and having shoes with good foot support are all important to staying healthy while on your feet most of the day. Also remember to use good body mechanics/ergonomics to prevent injury.”

Click the link below to learn more about Joy or to book an appointment at our salon.

Navigating the Treatment and Prevention of Infestations in Children

June 10, 2024 by jacksonville

Discovering that your child has lice can be an unsettling experience for any parent. However, it’s important to approach the situation calmly and take decisive action to address the issue effectively. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to handle and prevent lice infestations in children:

1. Confirm the Diagnosis

Start by examining your child’s scalp carefully for signs of lice, including small insects near the scalp and white or yellowish eggs (nits) attached to the hair shafts. If you suspect lice infestation, seek confirmation from a healthcare professional or school nurse to ensure accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

2. Inform Close Contacts

Inform anyone who has been in close contact with your child about the lice infestation so they can check for lice and take preventive measures if necessary. Lice can spread easily through direct head-to-head contact or by sharing personal items like hats, brushes, and hair accessories.

3. Treat the Infestation

Select an appropriate lice treatment based on your child’s age, health, and the severity of the infestation. Over-the-counter lice shampoos or treatments containing pyrethrin or permethrin are commonly used to kill lice and their eggs. Follow the treatment instructions carefully and use a fine-toothed comb to remove dead lice and nits from the hair.

4. Clean and Disinfect

Thoroughly clean and disinfect any personal items that may have encountered lice, such as clothing, bedding, hats, and hair accessories. Wash clothing and bedding in hot water and dry on high heat. Seal non-washable items in a plastic bag for at least two weeks to suffocate any remaining lice. Vacuum upholstered furniture and carpets and dispose of vacuum bags or clean the vacuum thoroughly.

5. Prevent Reinfestation

Take steps to prevent lice from returning or spreading to others by:

Encouraging your child to avoid close head-to-head contact with others.

Instructing your child not to share personal items like hats, brushes, or hair accessories.

Teaching good hygiene practices, such as washing hands regularly and avoiding sharing personal items.

Conducting routine head checks on your child and family members, especially during lice outbreaks in the community.

6. Monitor and Follow-Up

Keep an eye on your child’s scalp and hair for any signs of lice or nits in the weeks following treatment. It may be necessary to repeat the treatment or use additional combing techniques to ensure that all lice and eggs have been eliminated. If the infestation persists or if your child develops severe symptoms, consult with a healthcare professional for further evaluation and treatment options.

Dealing with a lice infestation can be challenging, but with prompt treatment, thorough cleaning, and preventive measures, you can effectively manage the situation and protect your child from reinfestation. Stay informed, stay vigilant, and seek support from healthcare professionals and other parents if needed. Remember, lice infestations are common and treatable, and with the right approach, you can help your child overcome this temporary nuisance with ease.