hair salon

Q&A Session with Hair Stylist Carla Gray at Pigtails and Crewcuts Jacksonville

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

1. Why Did You Decide to Become a Hair Stylist

“I became a Hair Stylist for the sole reason of helping people feel good about themselves, no matter the age.”

2. Where Did You Receive your Cosmetology Training?

“I received my cosmetology training in Baltimore, MD at Baltimore Studio of Hair Design. I have over 16 years of experience.”

3. What Do You Love About Working at Pigtails and Crewcuts?

“My fellow co-workers as well as the customers.”

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

“I try to gain their trust by talking them though it and telling them exactly what I’m doing. I also show them the tools I use.”

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

“I love Johnny B products and the toys!”

6. What advice would you give to others who want to become a Hair Stylist, or new graduates?

“Come to Pigtails and Crewcuts for the experience you can gain to become the all-around Hair Stylist.”

Carla would love to have the opportunity to serve your family. Click the button below to book an appointment with Carla today!

Head Lice: What Families Need to Know

Head lice can happen to anyone — and they’re far more common than you might think! These tiny insects spread quickly through close contact, which means kids can easily pass them along during school, playdates, or sleepovers. The good news? Lice don’t cause illness and are completely treatable.

1. How to Spot Lice

Keep an eye out for:

  • Frequent scratching, especially around the neck and behind the ears
  • Tiny white nits (eggs) attached to hair near the scalp
  • Tickling or crawling sensations on the head

2. What to do if you Spot Lice

  • Don’t panic! Lice are very common and manageable.
  • Use a lice treatment shampoo or visit a professional for safe, kid-friendly removal.
  • Comb thoroughly with a fine-tooth nit comb to remove eggs.
  • Wash bedding, hats, and hair accessories in hot water and dry on high heat.

3. Lice Prevention Tips

  • Teach your child not to share brushes, hats, or hair ties.
  • Keep long hair tied back in braids or buns during school or play.
  • Do regular scalp checks, especially after school breaks or camps.

At Pigtails and Crewcuts, we’re here to help keep little heads clean, healthy, and happy. If you ever need advice or a professional lice treatment, our gentle and caring team has you covered — no judgment, just support!

Discover Yoto at Pigtails & Crewcuts – Jacksonville: Screen-Free Fun for Kids 

At Pigtails & Crewcuts Jacksonville, we believe a great haircut experience is about more than just the cut—it’s about creating a fun, calm, and memorable visit for both kids and parents. That’s why we’re excited to introduce Yoto audio players and cards, a perfect addition to our family-friendly atmosphere! 

What is Yoto

Yoto is a screen-free, interactive audio platform designed especially for children. Inspired by Montessori principles, it encourages curiosity, creativity, and imagination. Kids simply insert colorful cards into a compact audio player to enjoy stories, songs, and educational activities—no screens, no distractions.

What Makes Yoto So Special

  • Safe and Screen-Free: Keeps kids entertained and calm during haircuts without any screen time, complementing our relaxing salon environment. 
  • Encourages Learning and Play: Sparks independent discovery with engaging stories and music. 
  • High-Quality Content: Features original and licensed audio from trusted brands like Disney, LEGO, Scholastic, and more. 
  • Award-Winning: Honored by TIME Magazine as one of the Best Inventions of 2020. 
  • Ideal for Home and Travel: Works offline, making it great for car rides, quiet moments, and beyond. 

Why Yoto Fits Perfectly in Our Salon

Yoto enhances the calming and enjoyable experience families appreciate here. It also aligns with our commitment to promoting literacy and creativity. Plus, offering Yoto products provides families with meaningful gift options that go beyond typical accessories.

Find Yoto at Pigtails & Crewcuts – Jacksonville

Visit our dedicated Yoto display in the salon, stocked with players and a variety of cards for kids of all ages. Whether you’re here for a quick trim or a special visit, you can browse and purchase Yoto products during your appointment.

2025 Back to School Hairstyles

Back-to-school hair trends this year are all about combining style with ease—whether for girls, boys, or anyone who loves a fresh look. Here’s what’s trending.

 

1. Cornrows into Bun or Ponytail

A stylish and practical hairstyle where the hair is braided close to the scalp in neat, straight (or creatively patterned) and then gathered into a bun, usually at the top or back of the head. This style is especially popular for kids because it keeps hair secure, looks polished, and can last for days or even weeks with proper care.

2. Fade With a Line Design

A modern boys’ haircut that combines a fade (where the hair gradually shortens from the top down to the skin or very short length on the sides and back) with a line design or hair tatoo.

3. Double Dutch Braids

Double Dutch braids are two tight, inverted French braids that run parallel from the front of the head to the nape of the neck.

4. Textured Crop

 A modern, stylish boys’ haircut characterized by short length, textured crop, and fringe bang. It’s usually styled with matte products like clay, paste, or pomade to enhance the textured effect without too much shine.

5. Half Up Top Knot

A trendy and versatile look where the top half of the hair is pulled up and secured into a bun (the “top knot”), while the bottom half is left down.

6. Slick Side Part

A classic boy’s hairstyle where the hair is neatly parted to one side and styled flat or slicked down, often using a styling product like pomade or gel for a smooth, shiny finish.

The 2025 back-to-school hair scene is vibrant, playful, and practical. From braided elegance to textured crops and trendy designs, there’s something for every style and schedule. Click the link below to book your back-to-school appointment today!

Picking the Right Salon for your Child

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.
Interior of children's salon at Pigtails & Crewcuts Jacksonville
Smiling boy in themed car looks at bubbles - Pigtails & Crewcuts Jacksonville

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.
Toddler boy plays at train station - Pigtails & Crewcuts Jacksonville
Pigtails & Crewcuts Jacksonville Exterior

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

 

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.
Little boy laughing during haircut - Pigtails & Crewcuts Jacksonville

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.
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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!