Hair Care

Picking the Right Salon for your Child

May 27, 2025 by jacksonville

Choosing the right hair salon for your child can make the experience enjoyable, safe, and stress-free for both of you. Here are some key tips to help you pick the best one.

1. Look for Kid-Friendly Salons

Specialized salons for children often have themed decor, toys, and entertainment (TVs, tablets, books) to keep kids distracted and happy.
Stylists in these salons are usually trained to work with squirmy or nervous children.

2. Check for Experienced Stylists

Make sure the salon has stylists who have experience cutting children’s hair, especially if your child is very young or has special needs.
Read reviews or ask other parents for recommendations.

3. Consider Cleanliness & Safety

The salon should be clean, well-lit, and follow proper sanitation practices.
Make sure tools like scissors and clippers are disinfected between uses.

4. Assess the Atmosphere

A warm, patient, and friendly staff can make all the difference.
Try visiting the salon beforehand to observe how they interact with kids.

5. Book a Trial Visit or Consultation

Before committing, you might schedule a simple trim or visit to see how your child reacts to the environment and stylist.

7. Look for Online Booking & Flexible Hours

Especially with kids, it helps to be able to book online or reschedule easily.
Some salons offer off-peak hours when it’s quieter, ideal for sensitive or easily overwhelmed children.

8. Check Price & Services

Kid salons may cost more than general salons, so ask about prices in advance.
Some offer bundles (cut, style, photo), or first haircut certificates for keepsakes.

Choosing the right salon is about more than just a haircut — it’s about ensuring a safe, positive, and enriching experience for your child. A child-friendly salon fosters trust, encourages good hygiene habits, and makes personal care something they can look forward to. Click the link below to book your appointment today!

Hair Care Tips for Boys with Curly Hair Texture

April 24, 2025 by jacksonville

When well-kept, curly hair can look stunning on boys. It is all about embracing the texture, using the correct products, and choosing the right style. These are some tips for maintaining natural curly hair.

1. Moisture is Key

Because curly hair is particularly dry, use sulfate-free shampoo and hydrating conditioner.
Deep condition once weekly to maintain curls soft and manageable.

2. Apply Leave-In Conditioners and Curl Creams

Reduce frizzy hair while also defining curls. Choose a lightweight product if you prefer less hold.

3. Don’t Over-Wash

Washing 1-3 times a week suffices for most boys with curls. Over-washing leads to dry curls.

4. Handle Drying with Care

Regular towels cause frizz, instead utilize microfiber towels or T-shirts for scrunch drying.
To maintain bouncy curls, air-dry them or diffuse on low heat.

5. Refrain from Brushing while Dry

Detangling with conditioner and wide tooth comb works best in the shower, or when hair is wet or damp. Brushing dry curls leads to frizz.

6. Trim Regularly

Getting it regularly trimmed prevents split ends and shape the cut so curls fall better.
Trimming every 8–12 weeks keeps curls looking fresh and avoids tangling.

Curly hair can be a blessing when cared for right—it’s all about moisture, patience, and the right techniques. Click the link below to book an appointment today!

Spring Inspired Hairstyles for Boys and Girls

March 25, 2025 by jacksonville

Spring is the perfect time to experiment with fresh and vibrant hairstyles for both boys and girls. Here are some spring-inspired hairstyles that are stylish and perfect for the season.

1. Long Layers with Fairy Hair Highlights

Long hair with layers can add movement and volume, and adding subtle fair hair will give it a sunny, springy feel.

2. Undercut with Messy Top

The undercut, with a longer, messy top, is perfect for a relaxed yet edgy look. This haircut is super trendy and great for keeping cool during the warmer months.

3. Braids and Twists

If your child has longer hair, consider adding soft braids or twists around the crown or incorporating them into a half-up hairstyle. This style screams spring with its relaxed, boho charm.

4. Fade with Textured Top

A fade haircut on the sides with a textured top gives a clean yet stylish look. It’s versatile and works well for both casual and formal settings.

5. Lob (Long Bob)

A lob with either light waves or straight texture is a stylish option that’s not too short and not too long. It’s low-maintenance and perfect for spring activities.

6. Crew Cut with Side Part

A crew cut with a subtle side part gives a sharp, modern look. It’s ideal for a neat, put-together vibe while still feeling spring-ready.

These spring-inspired hairstyles for both boys and girls are great for embracing the season’s lightness and energy! Click the button below to schedule an appointment for your child’s spring look.

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.

Q&A Session with Hair Stylist Arlene Maldonado at Pigtails and Crewcuts Jacksonville

November 19, 2024 by jacksonville

Check out our blog post for a special Q&A with Arlene Maldonado, one of our Hair Stylists. Read below to learn more about Arlene and her passion for working with children as a Cosmetologist.

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

“I wanted to become a Hair Stylist because it allows me to be creative. It also has a direct impact on people by making them feel good about themselves. I also enjoy the social interaction.”

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

“I received my cosmetology training in New Jersey 2004, so I’ve been practicing as a Hair Stylist for 20 years.”

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

“I love working with the kids. They’re always funny and spontaneous.”

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 start by introducing myself and ask them if its okay for me to put a cape on them. Little by little I start the service because I want them to be comfortable. I also let them know their parents are there and will not hurt them. I try to explain to them that the clippers will only cut their hair and not their skin. I always try to explain the process to them and keep reassuring them that I will not hurt them and will be as gentle as possible.”

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

“I love all the products that we use, but my two favorite are Sprouts Leave-In Conditioner and Surf’s Up Grape Texturizing Hair Wax.”

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

“To enjoy what they’re doing and learn as much as possible. Also to be professional at all times.”

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

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.