Hair Care

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.

Athletic and Active: Haircare Tips for Children Who Play Sports

August 13, 2024 by jacksonville

Keeping your child’s hair looking good and healthy while they’re active in sports can be a bit of a challenge, but there are definitely some tips that can help:

1. Keep Hair Tangle-Free

Before sports activities, especially if your child has longer hair, use a detangling spray or conditioner to make combing easier and prevent tangles.

2. Secure Hair Properly:

Use hair accessories like soft hair ties or headbands to keep hair out of their face. Avoid styles that pull too tightly on the scalp, as children’s scalps can be more sensitive.

3. Choose Gentle Hair Products:

Use mild shampoos and conditioners formulated for children to keep their hair clean without stripping natural oils. Look for products that are tear-free to avoid discomfort if they get into their eyes.

4. Post-Activity Hair Care:

After sports, encourage your child to rinse their hair with water to remove sweat and any dirt or debris. If washing is necessary, use a gentle shampoo and conditioner appropriate for their hair type.

5. Hydration:

Ensure your child stays hydrated with water before, during, and after sports activities. Proper hydration contributes to overall hair health.

6. Regular Haircuts:

Keep their hair neat and manageable with regular trims. This helps prevent split ends and maintains healthy hair growth.

7. Use Protective Styles:

Consider braids, ponytails, or buns to keep hair contained and minimize tangling during vigorous activities. Click the link below for more info on braids protective styles

8. Monitor Scalp Health:

Check their scalp regularly for any signs of irritation, dryness, or redness, especially if they wear helmets or hats during sports.

By following these tips, you can help your child maintain healthy hair while enjoying sports and outdoor activities. Balancing proper hair care with their active lifestyle ensures their hair stays strong and manageable. Click the link below for more helpful tips from previous blog articles.

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.

Dive into Summer: Children’s Hair Care Tips for Swimming Season in Jacksonville, FL

May 13, 2024 by cjennings

As the temperatures rise and swimming pools and the ocean beckon, it’s time to prepare our little ones for a splashing good time in the water. While swimming is a fantastic way for kids to stay active and cool off during the summer months, it can also pose challenges for their hair. Chlorine, saltwater, and sun exposure can all take a toll on children’s hair, leaving it dry, tangled, and prone to damage. To ensure that your child’s hair stays healthy and happy throughout swimming season, here are some essential hair care tips to keep in mind:

1. Pre-Swim Protection

Before your child takes the plunge, it’s essential to protect their hair from the potentially harmful effects of chlorine and saltwater. Consider applying a kid-friendly leave-in conditioner or hair oil to their hair before swimming to create a protective barrier that helps repel chlorine and prevent moisture loss. You can also wet their hair with fresh water before entering the pool or ocean, as this can help minimize the absorption of chlorinated or salty water.

2. Rinse Immediately After Swimming

After a swim, make sure to rinse your child’s hair thoroughly with fresh water as soon as possible. This helps remove chlorine, salt, and other chemicals from their hair, preventing them from drying out or causing damage. Encourage your child to wear a swim cap while swimming to minimize exposure to chlorine and saltwater, especially if they have long hair.

3. Use a Clarifying Shampoo

Regular use of chlorine-removing or clarifying shampoos can help prevent buildup and keep your child’s hair clean and healthy during swimming season. Look for gentle formulas specifically designed for children’s hair, as these are less likely to strip away natural oils or irritate the scalp. Consider washing your child’s hair with a clarifying shampoo after every swim to effectively remove chlorine, salt, and other impurities.

4. Moisturize and Condition

Frequent exposure to chlorine and saltwater can leave your child’s hair feeling dry, brittle, and prone to breakage. To combat this, incorporate regular deep conditioning treatments into their hair care routine. Choose hydrating and nourishing hair masks or conditioners that replenish moisture and restore vitality to their hair. Leave-in conditioners or detangling sprays can also help keep their hair soft, smooth, and manageable between washes.

5. Protect from the Sun

In addition to the effects of chlorine and saltwater, prolonged sun exposure can also damage your child’s hair, causing it to become dry, brittle, and faded. To protect their hair from the sun’s harmful rays, consider using a leave-in conditioner or sunscreen spray specifically formulated for hair. You can also encourage your child to wear a wide-brimmed hat or swim cap while playing outdoors to provide extra protection for their hair and scalp.

6. Trim Regularly

Regular trims are essential for maintaining healthy hair, especially during swimming season when exposure to chlorine and saltwater can lead to split ends and breakage. Schedule regular haircuts for your child to remove any damaged or dry ends and promote healthy hair growth. A shorter hairstyle may also be more manageable during swimming season, reducing the risk of tangles and knots.

7. Hydrate from the Inside Out:

Lastly, don’t forget to keep your child hydrated from the inside out by encouraging them to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Staying hydrated helps support overall hair health and ensures that their hair stays strong, shiny, and resilient, even during swimming season.

By following these essential hair care tips, you can help ensure that your child’s hair stays healthy and happy throughout swimming season. With proper protection, hydration, and maintenance, your little one can dive into summer with confidence, knowing that their hair is well cared for and ready for all the aquatic adventures that lie ahead.

How to Care for Toddler’s Hair in the Jacksonville Climate

December 18, 2023 by cjennings

Caring for toddlers’ hair in Jacksonville, Florida, involves considering the unique climate and environmental factors of the region. Jacksonville has a humid subtropical climate, characterized by warm temperatures, high humidity, and occasional rainfall. Here are some tips to help you care for toddlers’ hair in Jacksonville:

Hydration is Crucial

The humidity in Jacksonville can affect the moisture balance of your toddler’s hair. Ensure they stay well-hydrated by offering water regularly. Adequate hydration contributes to healthy hair from the inside out.

Use Moisturizing Hair Products

Choose hair care products (like the ones sold at Pigtails & Crewcuts) designed to combat frizz and dryness. Look for shampoos and conditioners that provide moisture without weighing down the hair. Consider using leave-in conditioners or detangling sprays to keep your toddler’s hair soft and manageable.

Gentle Cleansing Routine

Due to the higher humidity, toddlers may not need frequent hair washing. Consider a gentle cleansing routine with a moisturizing shampoo, washing their hair every 2-3 days or as needed.

Sun Protection

Jacksonville’s sunny climate means exposure to UV rays, which can be harsh on your toddler’s hair. When spending time outdoors, especially during peak sunlight hours, use a hat or cap to protect their hair and scalp from the sun.

Dealing with Humidity

Embrace the natural texture of your toddler’s hair in a humid climate. Consider styles that work well with the humidity, such as braids, twists, or ponytails. Avoid using excessive heat styling tools, as they can contribute to dryness and damage.

Regular Haircuts

Keep up with regular hair trims to prevent split ends and maintain healthy growth. A stylist experienced with toddler hair can offer advice on a suitable haircut for your child’s hair type and the local climate.

Comfortable Hair Accessories

Use comfortable and breathable hair accessories to keep your toddler’s hair in check. Avoid tight styles that can cause discomfort, and opt for soft, child-friendly accessories.

Teach Healthy Hair Habits

Encourage healthy hair habits early on. Teach your toddler to be gentle when brushing or combing their hair and make the hair care routine a positive and enjoyable experience.

Consult a Professional Children’s Hair Stylist:

If you have specific concerns about your toddler’s hair or need personalized advice, consider consulting a professional stylist who specializes in children’s hair care in Jacksonville.

By tailoring your hair care routine to the climate and environmental conditions in Jacksonville, you can ensure that your toddler’s hair remains healthy, manageable, and beautiful.

We offer a child-friendly line of hair care products at Pigtails & Crewcuts Jacksonville.