Transforming Hair with Curl Cult Texture Company: A Modern Contort on Perms

Have you ever imagined ditching your flat, lifeless hair for beachy, sexy waves or curls without compromising the integrity of your hair? Imagine no more, because the Curl Cult Texture Company, led by the visionary Janine Jarmane, has introduced a revolutionary perm that's changing the game for modern hairstylists and the way we may see perms today. This perm isn't just a throwback to your mother's era—it's a cutting-edge technique that empowers stylists to transform straight or flat hair into stunning waves and curls that perfectly suit their clients' lifestyles and images. Join me as I introduce you to the world of modern perming for you to discover how this innovative approach is redefining beauty trends while allowing to embrace one’s natural curl at the same time.

Like Magic

Like all cults, the leader is crucial to its success, and Curl Cult is no exception. Janine Jarman, the founder and face behind the brand, lives up to this expectation without fail.

Allow me to be straight forward and direct about this service:

If you have hair that has waves or texture, but it is uneven, this may help you to add continuity to your over all look.

If you have cowlicks or whirls that infringe on the ultimate style you are going for this could be your savior.

If you have the flattest crown ever that just refuses to give you some height, this may be what you are looking for.

It will not:

Emulate your mothers or grandmothers’ perms.

Leave roller marks on your scalp, as it does not wrap to the scalp.

Damage your hair or last forever!

This is a “demi permanent” perm which will not last more than enough time to fall in love with it or be ready to move on.  Either way, it is the perfect time to be open to a little “extra” in our lives if not only in our hair. 

Always remember that these techniques are advanced and should only be carried out by certified individuals that have learned by Janine Jarman, Founder Extraordinaire of Cult Curl or one of their certified educators.  To have this service, book with Cynthia in Kitsilano or Jessica Bombshell Beauty Bar Whiterock.

TAGS

@curlcult, @bombshellhair.ltd, @westcoastbeautyco, @beautyculturequeen

CATEGORIES

Beauty, Hair, Women Empowerment, Beauty Culture, Wellness

Image by Curl Cult

Can I Wear A Layered Haircut? Everything You Wanted to Know About Trending Layered Haircuts

The trend when it comes to hair this summer is layers! If you are born in the seventy’s, it is the “shag,” if you are born in the eighty’s its the “bixie.”  Either way, bangs, layers, and texture are the way to go! If you are wondering if layered, trendy haircuts are for you ask your Professional Stylist to explore the options that suit your needs. If your current Stylist does not seem open to changing your style, it may be time to explore a new one who upgrades their education on the regular and is ready to change up your look at anytime to give you a current haircut that can also give you a confidence boost.

The current shag, bixie and longer layered haircuts are not simply a way of bringing back the past, there is a whole new twist on all the mentioned. These haircuts allow you to have short, medium, and long hair with a modern look. The new looks have a way of capturing your natural look while framing your face, adjusting your focus to your eyes, cheekbones, and chin whether to enhance what you love most about the feature or detract what you do not love. Layering and texture give the Stylist a perfect opportunity to bring out what will provide the confidence to wear the haircut, rather than the haircut wearing you! If you are growing out your hair, consider adding a big bang or fringe. This is one way that will make your hair look longer as it is growing out.

Factors may include the texture, density, and movement of your natural hair. Is your hair straight? Curly, wavy, or coarse? Do you have cowlicks or growth patterns that may get in the way of having the “perfect” layers or bangs? With these contemporary trends, everyone can wear them. There is a bang or layer for everyone!! 

If you have questions about the latest haircut trends, feel free to reach out as I would LOVE to support you. Xox

Home Scalp Remedy That Could Cure Dry and Itchy Scalp

Is your scalp itchy this time of year? Are you looking for a natural way to take care of it? I have the trick for you and let me say this:  It is NOT coconut oil!!!  I do love coconut oil btw, please do not cancel me for hating on coconut oil.

This time of year, when it is cold outside less blood flow causes our scalp to tighten. This can cause dry scalp. If you do not brush your scalp regularly and vigorously, that scalp that would typically brush off stays on. If one adds oil to that it may stick the dry scalp on which can lead to issues for your otherwise healthy scalp.

For you who are blessed with the thickest amounts of hair who love to go to the blow bar once a week and use dry shampoo for a few days hear this: If you are not (at the least) massaging your scalp in between or brushing it, your dry scalp that would otherwise be decorticated is still there.  Adding such things as dry shampoo or oils to that will allow that dry scalp to stick to your head which could cause issues that may include a waxy like dandruff, an unpleasant scent or worst-case scenario hair loss.

Here is my tip for taking care of your scalp during these cold months: 

On the day that you will be washing your hair, start by brushing vigorously. We do not always consider that our scalp requires the brushing, but it does. We all produce a natural oil called sebum which can help strengthen and shine our hair when brushed through. Use this natural oil by brushing from the scalp down the hair shaft.

Once you have vigorously brushed the hair, the seborrheic dermatitis (or dandruff flakes) is ready to be absolved from the scalp. One of the best home remedies I like to suggest is vinegar. The acidic nature of vinegar can break down the flakes of dry skin on your scalp. You may already know that vinegar also kills bacteria. For easy distribution, I would suggest putting ample amount of vinegar into a spray bottle and fully saturate the scalp area. You may put a turban towel or tie the hair up to contain it while the vinegar is accomplishing the task at hand. After about 15 minutes you may wash and condition your hair as normal. You will notice a fresh and clean scalp afterwards. For maintenance, continue to brush and massage your scalp and hair regularly. Always use a shampoo and conditioner recommended by your Professional Hairstylist. I recommend my Beauty Culture Queen by Cynthia Citrus Moisturizing Shampoo and Conditioner for optimum results!

Things to Consider While Reinventing Your 2022 Fall Hair Colour

While you may be going into fall thinking about back to school, the trending Halloween costumes, and pumpkin spice lattes, I am over here dreaming up recipes which include coppers, auburns, mahogany, and chocolate browns. This is one of two times a year I typically see my clients want to change it up. (The other time is the New Year).

This year particularly, the trend is moving away further away from the ashy and grey/silver tones while investigating more warm and lustrous colours.

 Here are my tips to consider when thinking about adding warm dimensions into your next highlight and lowlight appointment or going for an all over colour using some of the mentioned colours are:

Copper has a yellow-orange base. Think of what a brand-new penny looked like. Shiny, warm with the base looking more orange than red. Something I love about copper is that it can be as light as blonde, easy to change to and from for those who like to alternate from cool to warm tones of blonde. The lighter the copper is the more yellow, darker is more orange in tonal value.

Auburn, like copper, has orange to it but also red. A more rich and darker to the eye look. This is not a common colour in nature as only one to two percent of people are born with auburn hair. If one is pondering, I suggest starting with copper and graduate to auburn if you love what it does for your skin tone as well as your overall attitude.

Mahogany is more than likely what comes to your mind when you hear it. Think rich, dark, plum, burgundy in tone. You may have doubts if they can pull off such a captivating colour, however, mahogany can suit any skin type as well as age. That said, if you have grey or blonde natural hair colour, I recommend pre-booking a touch up at every four weeks. The grow out can leave you looking thinning at the scalp because of the contrast with grey. I would say that mahogany is the highest maintenance in the red family.

Chocolate Brown is rich in tone because there is a red base to it. This is a beautiful way to introduce a shine and lustrous look to the hair because it leaves a transparency that you do not see-through ash or matte browns. The chocolate brown is easy to maintain as it is the most subtle or natural in appearance. To the skin it will leave a warm glow.

My final tip is this: When looking at any of the red family of hair colour, ask yourself if you want a dramatic or more subtle look. It is my experience that the darker in depth the more subtle, the lighter will be brighter and more dramatic. Whatever you select, whether it be in the copper, auburn, mahogany, or chocolate family, always seek the advice of a professional. It takes years of experience coupled with extensive and ongoing education to become an expert Hair Colourist. You owe it to yourself and the health of your hair to ensure optimum results. Read my blog on Three Great Finding a Hairstylist Ideas That You Can Share with Your Friends for further insight on that topic.

Is a Wellness Retreat Worth It?

My Experience With Soulful Sage Wellness Retreat in August of 2022

I have a feeling based on my experience that there will be a time when people will not believe there was less than 20 on a retreat with Joanne Fetchko of Breath of Being Readings and Tannis Gautheier of Sharing the Light Reiki and Wellness. If asked why, I would say it is because these two women put together a retreat on Savory Island that I attended for three nights in August. Upon meeting these women, I would have thought that they have been working together for at least a decade as they are connected and in synch with each other on level which can be felt instantly. Hosting an event on Savory Island must come with a plethora of potential trouble as getting there takes two ferries, a water taxi, and hours of driving. You must also bring on and take off everything you require while on Savory. This includes all garbage. That said, it was worth taking the time as it is a beautiful, mystical island. The location itself was restorative as it is known for its white sand beaches, beautiful swimming waters and sandy cliffs. If that does not astound you, the dune meadows and ancient forests will.

I was not sure exactly what a Wellness Retreat was all about so when my friend mentioned it, I surprised myself how quickly I said I was interested in going. It was as if something inside of me made the decision without my attention to it. For me, it was the mystery of not knowing that made it even more alluring. I decided to not ask any questions and just go for it.

 Joanne is a Psychic Medium and Tannis is a Reiki Karuna Master and Psychic Medium. As a team, they are Soulful Sage Wellness Team. They specialize in retreats and workshops that guide you to unleash your Soul’s Purpose, awakening the most authentic you, igniting your light so you can shine.

The Savory Island retreat included lovely food for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, made with love and mindfulness and wonderful selection. My friend and I shared a cabin (there were four cabins). Guests could also stay in the main house which had suites available where the two hosts also slept. Although I would not say it was fancy, it was certainly comfortable at The Savory Island Resort. From the beginning I felt the sense of community. Guests included Reiki Practitioners, Psychics, and other women who, like me, wanted to experience the retreat without expectation. I felt a sense of community and comradery the whole time. Never did I feel intimidated or awkward amongst these lovely women that made up our group of nine. We did morning yoga and meditations. We experienced as a group beautiful, guided meditation walks through the forest as well as at the beach. There was sound healing and readings that were so beautiful. I do not want to go into detail as I respect the process so much after receiving such beautiful gifts of calm and clarity from the ladies, I feel it best not to “dish” too much about the details of it all, even though it was positive. I have always loved rituals and found much peace and contentment in them all. It was so exciting to go to the beach having no idea what we would be doing. Going into the ancient forests would often lead to a feeling of being in a trance of sorts. At times, I can be excruciatingly shy, so to find such comfort and confidence to complete tasks including painting, dancing, sharing with strangers was one of the biggest surprises for me personally. I had lovely experiences by the campfire. Our Cacao Ceremony was amazing. Never have I experienced the feeling of love, healing, and power by so many intentions all at once. These rituals and experiences will stay with me forever. I have an enthusiastic respect and admiration for both Joanne and Tannis, as well as the other women who graciously gave their energy so openly. Weather it was by the campfire, during meditations or at the beach, slowly but surely it became clear to me that I was surrounded by women who were unleashing such powerful messages. I felt empowered just being in the same space as them. It was truly an honour.

So, what now? I am home, the retreat is over, in fact, it has been weeks and I am still thinking about my experiences and gaining insight by them. We all received sweet little workbooks by Soulful Sage Wellness Retreats that include great ways to remain in touch with what we practiced. I feel I can relate more than ever to my own intuition and clarity since the retreat. I will continue on my path and while doing so, take reiki classes with Tannis which feels like the right thing for me to do. The quote in my workbook by Democritus speaks to me best by saying:

“Happiness resides not in possessions, and not in gold; happiness dwells in the soul.”

The retreat opened my soul in a way, awakening a stillness that I will continue to nurture. Clearly, the answer to the question is: “Yes”

The Home Spin Workouts You've Been Waiting For

Working out at home does not have to be boring. I love to watch Young and The Restless while spinning on my Schwinn Bike. I am so pleased that the Spin Society in Vancouver sold me this bike and set it up in my condominium during the lock down. I honestly do not know what I would have done in the fall and winter months when there were no classes in gyms. I would record all the Young and Restless shows and allow myself to watch only if I were on the spin bike. This, for me, was a great combination of my “guilty pleasures” and my favorite form of exercise. I know that does not work for everyone. If my way does not appeal to you, I have a couple other suggestions that could motivate you to spin at home.

Check out my friend Mike Porter who has online spin classes. His company called Positive Edge for a reason as Mike is one of the most positive people I have ever met. I had the pleasure of taking his Spin Classes when he started Cadence in Vancouver, one of the first Spin Exclusive Gyms in Vancouver… also my favorite in person Spin in Vancouver (cadencevan). He went online with his classes long before the pandemic was happening. He has an amazing way of motivating you with his positive energy. Do not think this makes it easy. He has a goal, a real beginning, middle and end that will keep you sweating and smiling at the same time. Check it out on Instagram (positive.edge)

Another inspiration I have for you to investigate is Hanna Weinwurm. A Yoga, Pilates, Wholistic Health Expert with a new book on the market titled Ride Alchemy where she hands you a ton of amazing spins you can do at home or in a gym on a bike on your own. You can also find her spins on Spotify or Instagram (hana_weinwurm).

Whether you spin at home or at the gym, the important thing is to keep moving. Moving is important to keep us healthy and our spirits up. FamiliyDoctor.org says exercise can: Reduce risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, osteoporosis, diabetes, and obesity. It can also reduce your risk of breast cancer, keeps us flexible, reduces some of the effects of aging and so much more. As the weather gets warmer, we tend to get outside more and enjoy the benefits of walking, rowing, and other recreational activities. This does not mean to forget about the bike in your living room. Even if it is just 20-30 minutes in the morning, it is a great habit that is sure to put a positive spin on your day!!

Three Great Finding A Hairstylist Ideas That You Can Share With Your Friends

Three Great Finding A Hairstylist Ideas That You Can Share With your Friends

I consider myself to be in a relationship with anyone who touches me on a regular basis. When I am starting a new relationship there are always things to consider, the “deal breakers,” the connection, the sustainability of it all. No one wants to waste their own or someone else’s time. This speaks to relationships including that one with your Hairstylist. Once bonded together through Beauty Culture along with   shared   details of your personal life, it can be devastating to have to go out there and find another one and start all over again. Here are three great Finding a Hairstylist ideas that you can share with your friends.

*Are they Red Seal or Licensed? You can always Google the regulations to practice Hairdressing as they will vary from Province to Province and State to State. Hairdressing Association, a Cosmetology Association or an Industry Training Authority will have updated requirements and advise on what to look for. As a consumer, it is up to you to do your diligence. Even when referred by someone, it is acceptable to enquire about the Hairstylist’s credentials.

Using a Red Seal or Licensed Hairstylist gives you confidence in their knowledge and understanding of bacteriology, infection control and properties of the hair and scalp. You know that the Hairstylist was assessed extensively by qualified professionals in their field and has adequate professional work experience.

Some Provinces or States may NOT require the Hairstylist to be Red Seal or Licensed. In this case, I suggest looking for a professional Hairstylist that goes voluntarily to the Red Seal as doing so puts them at a level equivalent or higher to a journeyperson.

*When was the last class or upgrade to the job the Hairstylist had? This is an important question as Beauty Culture is ever-changing. Even throughout the pandemic, current trends and inspiration was happening. If a Hairstylist is on top of their game, they will always find a class through their Representatives or online. A Hairstylist who is investing money into their own education will satisfy your need to remain current. It also speaks to how inspired they are by their chosen industry.

* Finally, their professional attitude, image, and work ethic. So, you find a qualified Hairstylist with whom you can see yourself having a long-term relationship with. What happens when you go to schedule an appointment after work to find out the Hairstylist works Monday to Friday ten to four? This is not a good fit simply because you will not be accommodated. When it comes to professional work ethic, consider the products the Hairstylist is using. Are you interested in using eco-friendly products while at the salon and to take home as well, or are you looking for affordability first? It is good to know that you are going to be coordinated with each others’ ideals when it comes to the products used on you. If you have allergies or experience discomfort when confronted with the smell of toxins or ammonia, it is important to find someone who is using the cleanest of products. Good things often come with a high ticket. Do not be afraid to ask about cost. A quote is not always written in stone but can be a good starting point.

With a proper consultation you should be able to determine whether you are a good fit for a new Hairstylist. That said, sometimes, like every relationship, the first meeting may leave you on the fence. Decide if you think it is worth working on together to become a match made in heaven. Writing from personal and professional experience, I have had clients that at first meeting I wondered if we were a good match only to find out on the second or third meeting that we were in it for life. You are your own identity. Your Hairstylist is a terrific way to encourage you to be confident through your hair. Upon getting to know you and what makes your confidence soar they can become your confidante, your guru/go to and of course your valued friend.

Advice On Going Into The New Year Feeling Less Stressed

I do not know about you but for me, the first couple weeks after the Holliday Season can be daunting at times, even overwhelming. As a child I remember thinking there was something wrong with me because I was not a fan of the Holiday Season. The part I loved was all my siblings coming home and having a full house. I loved watching my mom fawn all over everyone including my father. Once everyone started their own families or moved apart from each other, we started to celebrate in October which really works for me! No pressure, no expectation other than to show up and have fun (and sometimes a little good old fashioned family drama).

In the past, I would be stressed to the max with a school full of students preparing to graduate and a new batch about to start in January. It did not leave me with time to think about the actual holiday season. The past couple of years, there has not been much happening (thanks to the pandemic). The first year I found myself feeling the same old familiar stress, anxieties coming on and wondered what is it about? Can it be the New Year? The expectation of having “New Years Resolutions?”  I do not and have never actually set New Years Resolutions as I do not believe in putting that pressure on myself so why the overwhelming feelings?

This year was completely different, and I want to share why. It may come off as too simple to be true. Here it is:

Keep it simple. Do not go into the New Year thinking about what you want in relation to what you do not have. Do not think about what you did in the past years and how you will do things differently in the coming one. Facing reality can be a wonderful thing but I encourage anyone who may be stressed and overwhelmed to try new dreams rather than concentrating on old dreams that may not have come true for you over the years. Look ahead, look where you are and go where you align with your personal happiness. Go into this year NOT thinking about anyone or anything that you feel was “done to you” that was undeserved, meanspirited or negative. You are better off to have space freed up for new stresses and hardships that are bound to in the coming year. If you have cleared the cobwebs of the past, you may not see the new bumps in the road as boulders. Nothing good will come out of going into a new year thinking about the past ones unless it is fond moments into which you are diving. Hope you can get there, if not this year, in the ones to follow. xox

You Know What Happens When You Assume

On this Mother’s Day, I am brought back to a memory of a woman telling me I am nothing and my life is simply not worth living if I choose to NOT have children of my own.  Did I mention this was said to me while I was checking a haircut the woman was having with one of my students.  It came out of this woman’s mouth so readily and so easily that I was taken back.  She was rather lucky that it was taking place in front of a student because I probably would have handled it much differently (that’s code for maybe I would have lost my verbal temper on her).  Instead, I said, “It’s not for everybody”.  She did not let up, literally nagging me until I said that it was really none of her business and that I could not have children.  She added: “You could adopt”.  I walked away; her haircut was finished enough for me.  I did not want to see her again, nor could I handle hearing another word out of her mouth.  When she left, my student was commending me on how pleasant I was and how well I handled the “situation”.  The fact is, that was not the first time or the last that I was left somewhat “shamed” by the idea of not having children. 

The mentioned story took place in my mid to late 30’s.  It took place in many forms for many years to come.  Now, in my 50’s, I am often asked if I have children.  When I say no, it is often followed with the look of sadness or pity.  Sometimes I am asked “How many children do you have?” or “How old are your children?” This can be an awkward exchange between people who are having small talk while getting to know each other.  Asking someone without children “Why?” is not a great idea.  When people ask me why I did not have children, unless I know them very well and consider them a friend, I will often make something up or say whatever comes to mind at the time which may not even be the reason.  Being asked that can leave someone feeling vulnerable and at times uncomfortable (Do not do it).

I do not write this because I am hurting over not having children on Mother’s Day.  I never wanted children, nor am I a fan of babies.  I have always related to youth and young adults.  I enjoy getting to know my nieces and nephews but for me it is when they are a little older that I felt I had more to offer as an Aunty.   I often tell my clients when they are surprised that someone does not go goo goo for a baby that enough people go goo goo for babies and that I am there after that, when they are children or young adults that may need someone to talk to or a shoulder that is not the parent but trustworthy. 

Not everyone who roams alone is lonely and not every woman who does not have children wanted to.  Be aware of what you assume when talking to women, especially women over 50.  Do not assume we have all been married or want to be, do not assume we all have children or wanted to and do not assume that just because we did not want our own that we would not help you to raise yours.  After all, we all know it takes a village to raise a child. A great Aunty can be a lot of help.

To all those Mother’s out there that love and care for their children, Happy Mother’s Day.  To all the other women out there, we are all thought of as mothers by someone.  Women are natural nurturers after all.