Hair Salon Products for Pro Results at Home

You only need a few products to achieve soft shiny hair at home.

As the cooler, dryer air of fall into winter advances, we may find ourselves in an uphill battle to keep our locks healthy and shiny. One of the problems is caused by dryer air generated by indoor heating appliances. This included fireplaces which are oh so charming to sit by and roast chestnuts over. Your hair is also being baked!

So this is my short list of salon products I'm using right now that I've picked up during an appointment as recommended by some of NY's top hair stylists. Here we go:

Curlisto Haircare Collection
Developed by Christo of Christo Fifth Avenue in NYC, the man himself gave me the three smaller samples after my appointment a few weeks ago when his salon did my hair,nails and makeup for the ITNY's 2014 Benefit Gala
The Wall Street Journal and Women's Wear Daily have dubbed Christo "The King of Curls" as this celebrity stylist began his career at the tender age of 12 in his family's salon on the Greek Isle of Cyprus. His approach to curly hair is revolutionary, focusing first on nourishing it with ingredients that specifically address its unique challenges.

The Botanical Shampoo was lovely but what really got my attention was his Botanical Rinse. It really detangles and softens your hair like nothing I've ever used. So much so that I purchased a full sized bottle as seen here at my last visit to Christo's salon. 

The Deep Therapy Masque is also very good and reminds me of my favorite Mer-rouge Deep Conditioning Mask by Molton Brown - London. The Curlisto line is designed for curly hair but does not discriminate against straight. It is simply amazing and available online at Curlisto.com

Styling Helps

Nexxus Humectress Luxe Ultimate Moisture Leave In Spray is my favorite go-to after shampoo conditioner. My other is It's a 10 Miracle Leave In Plus Keratin which is great if you are going to flat iron or curl your hair as it is also protects against heat.

Bumble and bumble's Bb Tonic Lotion is great for bringing out the luster of darker hair shades as it contains Tea Tree, Nettle and Rosemary essential oils which are also good for your scalp's health. It's a rich mix of vitamins and herbs...so perfect for blow drying. I was turned on to this product by Commisso and Company of Port Washington, LI. 

Pro Tip: Just keep in mind that with these leave in products, a little goes are really long way. Most of us use far too much product which can weigh the hair down.

Natural Oils, Shine Boosters

dp HUE do Professional Oil Therapy
This product is an elegant blend of Argan oil, liquid shea butter with vitamins A & E. This is made for hair that is particularly dry or stressed. I like how it absorbs quickly and offers a rich shine. It also helps to speed drying time. It does contain Dimethecone as the second ingredient which is the only "con" I can cite however a little is all you need and the results are very impressive. Smells SO good too. Made in the UK. Visit dphue.com online.

CapriClear 100% Coconut Oil Spray
This is a very versatile coconut oil spray which unlike regular coconut butter, stays liquid even in cooler temperatures. Fractionated means this is coconut oil in its purest form without scent, color or preservatives. A little disappointing in the fragrance department because I really like the smell of coconut oil. All the same nothing beats this after a bath or shower as a super moisturizing and 100% natural spray. Made in the USA. Visit them online at capriclear.com

Pro Tip: To avoid weighing hair down with too much oil product, add less than a dime sized amount or half spritz to a boar bristle hair brush. You can even get them in 3 inch rounds for blow outs. The natural bristles are soft and evenly distribute the oil throughout your hair leaving it very soft and shiny. Natural boar hair is also more gentle on damp hair.

Picking up some more Curlisto Products! Christo of Christo 5th Ave.

My hair and makeup by Ray - Top Designer, c/o Christo Fifth Avenue
Pyrite Bracelets by Jaimie Nicole

Curls and Glamour at Christo Fifth Avenue

Christo's 5th Ave, loft is THE place for gorgeous curls and Red Carpet makeup artistry.

Midtown: Located at 35 West 45th Street between 5th and 6th, Christo Fifth Avenue is hailed as the "Curl Whisperer" among celebrity A-listers. Why? Well one reason is their philosophy of working with and even more celebrating naturally curly hair while turning it into something quite stunning.

We were invited to attend the Ice Theatre of New York's 30th Anniversary Benefit Gala and made an appointment at Christo Fifth Avenue. We were personally greeted by the most gracious host, Irina, who catered to us during the day and served wine in the afternoon. Likewise Yashira ordered lunch for us and made sure we had plenty of ice water.

Christo 5th Avenue

The whole atmosphere is more like visiting a very comfortable but posh artist's loft. Open, spacious yet intimate at the same time. Beautiful natural lighting from the huge 45th street windows and ambient lighting complimented with multiple chandeliers and warm hardwood floors throughout the space.

Owner and Designer, Christo

In 2002, Christo opened this 5th Avenue studio to cater to his A-List and Royalty clientele. However, everyone here is treated like a celebrity. Christo believes that hair is the #1 Fashion accessory in your wardrobe.  He practices the art of PsychoHair-Therapy and educates others on the care and styling of curly hair which often needs special treatment. In response to that, Christo has his own line of specially formulated treatments and styling products under the label, Curlisto. Each system comes in a set specific for your hair type and styling preferences. See them online at Curlisto.com  

Christo Fifth Avenue offers makeup, hair and nail styling

Gina's makeup by Kelly-Senior Designer (L) & hair by Rosaura Miranda (R) 

Gina has long wavy hair and has only had a Keratin Treatment over the summer. Her stylist, took time to make some helpful recommendations on her specific hair texture needs while choosing a style she could replicate at home.

Nails by Silvia Pineiro - Esthetician - Nail Technician

As for me, I had Ray - Top Designer and Aveda Institute graduate, do both my hair and makeup for the evening Gala. I wanted lift and body so Ray set my hair on large rollers while I had my nails done by Silvia Pineiro. Silvia's manicure included a heavenly hand massage and exfoliation treatment.

Her station has a little quiet place to relax and put your feet up. Silvia did a very fresh looking French Manicure which made my nails look very elegant and polished.

Christo 5th Avenue Nail Technician-Esthetician Silvia Pineiro

I was surprised that Ray was accomplished in both hair and makeup but I also noticed other Christo designers namely Kelly sporting the same dual skills. This makes these stylists highly desirable for runway shows, movie sets and red carpet events as they are able to pinch hit from one discipline to another.

Ray did my makeup before styling my hair and used both Mac and Makeup Forever palettes. He also added some false eyelashes and lots of drama for the eyes. However how he did my brows was a pure revelation. Beautifully sculpted to frame my face. Lastly he styled my hair using a 3 inch iron and a touch of light hair spray to give it extra lift. The finished look was simply fabulous!

Hair and makeup artistry by Ray - Top Designer

So the experience was everything we would have expected from a top level 5th Avenue salon...and more. Highly accomplished professionals who have a passion for their art. Give them a call for an appointment at (212)997-8800.

Now, for the evening event. Here we are on the red carpet at the Ice Theatre of New York's Benefit Gala & Cocktail Party:

(L-R) Gina Miczak, Sarah Hughes, Dr.Tenley Albright, Dr. Marie J Miczak

Dr. M and Ice Show Star, Richard "Mr. Debonair" Dwyer

Jewelry c/o Kathy Hershelow - Sublime Beauty
Dr. M's dress by Nora Gardner, NYC
Salon services c/o Christo Fifth Avenue

EDITORS'S CHOICE: Top NEW Natural and Organic Beauty Products You Need to Try

The upcoming season is ALL about natural and organic beauty products!

Each day, we are exposed to a myriad of chemicals and preservatives in our personal and cosmetic lotions and potions. So this coming fall, why not start fresh with a clean up of some of your favorite skin and hair care essentials?  These are some of my favorites which I feel good about using. I think you will too!

Clean up your act (and face) with these natural cleansers and masques

Nude by Nude Brands, France
This is touted as the perfect cleansing oil for face and eyes. Formulated without mineral oils and sulphates, it really does an amazingly gentle job of removing the heaviest mascara and eyeliner. Effectively removes makeup without stripping your face of its natural oils. Fragrance and colorant free. See it at NudeSkincare.com

G.M. Collin Bio Organique Energizing Masque
One of my favorites, this masque both moisturizes and purifies with natural fruits and oils. Made with a good amount of organic ingredients. I like to use this a few times a week after cleansing. Available only at day spas.

Come Clean Glycerin Bar Soaps

Come Clean Pop Culture Soap, NYC
These glycerin based bar soaps are very similar to the ones I show you how to make in my book, Nature's Weeds, Native Medicine - Lotus Press. Only these are so much cooler! Made with natural oils like coconut, palm and safflower oils, once the soap is finished, collect and trade the little toy inside. Hello Kitty! See more soaps online at WhenIComeClean.com

Organic Doctor Hydrating Radiance Elixir.com

Organic Virgin Coconut Oil Hydrating Radiance Elixir, UK
I use EVO Coconut Oil in cooking, baking, for my body and hair care. So I was really interested in what Organic Doctor had to offer in this department. Although aloe based, it is very light in texture, and contains organic orange, lemon and bergamot oils. It can sting a bit if used after exfoliation, (perhaps due to the citrus oils) but overall it is a quick absorbing, soothing formula. See it at OrganicDoctor.us.com or purchase at VitaminWorld.com

Beelieve Deep Hydrating Balm

Beelieve Deep Hydrating Balm by Heaven + Urth, CA
This oil and beeswax formula is again very similar to the ointments I have recipes for in Nature's Weeds, Native Medicine. Loaded with olive, jojoba, coconut and calendula oils, it is the perfect healing balm. The organic beeswax means that it stays solid even in rather warm temperatures and comes with a little wooden spoon to help scoop it out. You only need a pea sized amount and my hands are so soft from using it at night before bedtime. Has a fresh lavender-orange scent due to the presence of these botanical oils. Check it out at Heavenandurth.com 

Rozge Natural Lip Gloss comes in 22 opaque colors

Rozge Natural Lip Gloss, CA
Lip gloss is lip gloss, right? Well that might have been true until Rozge Cosmeceutical came up with this luscious formula made with all natural, wild-crafted, organic ingredients. Rich in natural oils like: Shea butter, Sunflower, Jojoba and Safflower oils plus "Dragon's blood" (ancient Roman remedy) & aloe vera, it takes lip moisture to a whole new level. Comes in a riot of 22 flattering colors as you can see above, these glosses heal and protect your lips while looking fabulous. I really like how the wand lights up and has a little mirror on the side to help with nighttime applications. Great packaging for a seriously luxe lip product.Visit Rozge.com online.

Rozge lip glosses have a light up wand and slim side mirror

HAIR AND BODY

Shiny strong hair is something that starts from within. So I would definitely invest in some quality hair & skin vitamins first. After that, you will find that coconut oil can be your very best friend as a deep hair conditioner. You can apply it and wrap your hair in a turban overnight. The next morning, shampoo as usual. If your hair is really dry and damaged, you may want to use a Castile soap or coconut oil shampoo. Both are rich in botanical oils and will help replenish your hair in a hurry. Try Organic Doctor's Organic Virgin Coconut Oil Shampoo and Conditioner. Made to volumize and protect, it doesn't weigh your hair down or leave it greasy.

Coconut based hair and body care products from Organic Doctor

Organic Virgin Coconut Oil - Monoi Moisture Melt Body Oil
This is a very coconut oil rich moisturizer that can be used on your hair or body. It's liquid at warm room temperatures but like real coconut oil, will solidify somewhere below 70 degrees. If that happens you will have a hard time pouring it from the bottle. Simply hold the bottle under warm water for a few seconds and it should loosen up. Lots of super rich oils in this formula like: coconut, mango and cocoa butter. The label says Tahitian Gardenia Flower Extract but if you are a true fan of exotic Monoi fragrance, I'm afraid you won't find it in this formula. It has more of a coconut-mango scent that is still very pleasant. A little goes a long way and I like the way this formula slides on my legs and arms after a shower. See the entire line at OrganicDoctor.us.com

Natural Beauty products c/o Nude Brands, G.M. Collin, Come Clean, Heaven + Urth, Organic Doctor and Rozge respectively.

Hair, Skin and Nail Vitamins That Actually Work - HAIRFINITY & Sublime Beauty & Probelle Reviews

Which hair, skin and nail vitamins actually DO something for you? I've got the scoop!

As a Certified Nutritional Consultant and author of 4 books on the subject of nutrition, suffice it to say that I have tried several types of skin and nail vitamins over the years only to see little if any noticeable results. So I'm a hard sell when it comes to supplements in this category. All the same, I have recently found two supplements that have worked for me in ways I could definitely see. I'm sharing them with you here plus a few other facts to help you obtain healthier skin, hair and nails.

HAIRFINITY by Brock Beauty

HAIRFINITY is perhaps the first and only supplement I've found to live up to the hype promises of healthier, fuller and longer hair. The workup is x2 per day but I've often only taken x1 and still saw results...within the first month. The gelatin capsules are easy to swallow and easy to digest and I would recommend this delivery system over say, hard pressed tablets.  I've also taken this supplement on an empty stomach with no issues.

The main active ingredients in HAIRFINITY would be their MSM (methylsulfonylmethane), hydrolyzed collagen and high amounts of both biotin and panthothenic acid. These work synergistically and you will notice results very quickly in not just your hair but your nails as well. 

Phytoceramides by Sublime Beauty

Phytoceramides Anti Aging Skincare by Sublime Beauty has a lot of buzz going for it ever since Dr. Oz described this substance as being able to accomplish a mini-facelift. Now, I don't think I need all THAT but this is another product that has given me noteworthy results not only for my facial skin but ALL over my body. Sublime Beauty offers a whole support system for top level, spa quality skincare at home starting with their Dry Brushing. I've written and recommended Dry Body Brushing for years now but this combined with taking the Phytoceramides has shown marked benefits to my skin.

Book on Phytoceramides by Kathy Heshelow, founder of Sublime Beauty

What are Phytoceramides? The prefix "phyto" means plant but the original oral ceramide supplements were of bovine origin. Ceramides are lipids or fats that make up about 40% of young, healthy skin. Plant based ceramides can be found in wheat, corn and sweet potatoes but Sublime Beauty uses rice derived phytoceramides. The rice actually is more effective at lower dosages and perfect for people with wheat allergies or who wish to remain gluten free. I take one per day first thing in the morning before breakfast and began noticing my skin AND nails looking better after about 3 weeks. The Phytoceramide crosses over to help with nail health as well. See more online from SublimeBeautyShop.com

Probelle Touch n' Grow Plus Nail Hardener

Probelle Touch n' Grow Nail Hardner is made with Garlic and Lime. It is recommended that you apply it daily for several days but I simply use it as a base coat for my weekly manicure and have noticed my nails are thicker and don't peel as much as they used to. You can't smell the garlic or lime and the product dries clear, not green as the bottle appears. It is really very simple to add to your routine. The only thing that I don't like is that it contains Formaldehyde. Most of the other nail polish makers are moving away from that with their "3-Free" formulas. All the same the product works as advertised and is much better than the Sally Hansen nail hardener products I've tried over the years. Check them out at Pro-Belle.com

I use Probelle Touch n' Grow Plus as a base coat for my manicures.

Getting Proper Nutrition - The Supporting Cast Members
If you have recently cut down or cut out red meat, dairy, fish, etc. please understand that this can leave serious holes in your diet. Your body will respond by slowing the rate of hair and nail growth as it desperately seeks to conserve protein that you are not getting in your food.
Dropping red meat which is rich in protein, B vitamins and what's called heme iron, can cause you to become anemic. Your nails will show this by becoming very flat so you will need to get your hemoglobin checked and supplement with iron to stay healthy. If you are on the vegetarian or vegan path, you'll need to combine your amino-acids so that you are getting enough protein. Making a shake with something like Garden of Life's Raw Fit High Protein for Weight Loss would be a great idea. Each serving gives you a whopping 28 gms of raw protein from sprouted nuts, seeds and grains. Delicious too.

Take a Good Multiple Vitamin
A natural multiple vitamin should be the cherry on top of a healthy diet. I take Rainbow Light's Certified Organics Women's Multivatimin. Made with whole organic foods and herbs, I can take it on an empty stomach without worrying. In fact I take two each morning with my HAIRFINITY and Phytoceramides. It helps boost the effectiveness of everything else I take.
Get plenty of protein and essential fatty acids in: nuts, seeds, whey, salmon and sardines. Choose fresh garden vegetables first and then dark berries as they are lower in sugar (fructose) than most fruits yet more nutritious.  

Rainbow Light's Certified Organics Women's Multivitamin

Supplements and nail products c/o Brock Beauty Inc., Sublime Beauty and Probelle respectively.

Editor's Choice: The BEST Summer Beach Bags and Accessories

Beach and Pool time just got cooler. Philip Stein Tote & Pistil Fedora

These are some of my favorite summer totes, beach bags and accessories for sun and sand! Trending now but will remain true classics you can call on year after year.

Quirky Mesh Bottomed Beach Tote and Matching Clutch

Quirky? Maybe. However the Shake Sand Sifting Beach Bag has a mesh bottom and flap to let the sand out. Pretty close to genius in my book but did you catch the little matching clutch? It has the same set up so no sandstorm there either. Roomy and well thought out, it has a zippered inner pouch and straps with just the right drop length. Coated canvas fabric in a sand beige, it's perfect for the beach blanket. See them at Quirky.com

Matched up! Quirky Shake Beach Tote & Clutch

Woven Bag with Pewter Sand Dollar by Newport Style

I saw lots of these handbags and totes while on vacation on Nantucket Island. Beautifully handwoven of natural ata grass, this bag is made for resort living with a large black grosgrain ribbon and pewter dipped sand dollar on the front. See more at NewportStyle.net

Handwoven Ata Grass Bag

Bamboo Handled Woven Bag from Hawaii
My brother purchased this for me while shopping on the Island of Maui. It's just the right size for your keys, wallet and cell but pretty enough for lunch at the Tiki Bar. Has a zippered closure and little pouch within.

Bamboo Handled Woven Bag from Maui & Mia Flower Halo

Beachy Accessories
Here are some fun accents to go with your summer wear. While I might not wear this in the water, the Mia Flower Halo has a pure Polynesian flavor going for it. When the stars come out...it lights up! Perfect for the club after a day on the beach. See them is various colors at MiaBeauty.com

Light and airy. Woven straw Fedora by Pistil Designs

Pistil Fedora
You definitely need sun protection on the shore. Do it in style with this sweet woven straw Fedora by Pistil Designs. Has a bright, cloth headband and easy fits larger heads of hair. By PistilDesigns.com


 

Bracelet that doubles as a necklace and visa - versa

Vanesa Farfan Jewelry
This Leather and Silver Bracelet/Necklace from Vanesa Farfan is very versatile and should be a definite inclusion in your resort bag. Made with fine quality leather and silver plated charms, it can be worn everyday but still look great for cocktails. See more jewelry designs from VanesaFarfan.com

Leather & Silver Bracelet/Necklace by Vanesa Farfan

Sailing to Nantucket from Cape Cod.

Totes and Jewelry c/o Philip Stein, Quirky and Vanesa Farfan respectively.

Photo Ready Hair Ideas with Fortune Wigs, NYC

Photo: Kenneth Deutsch.  Hairstylist - Esther Tobias for FortuneWigs.com

Brooklyn, NYC Springtime in New York. What could be better than trying out a new hairstyle or color to go along with your spring makeup? Sometimes we forget that hair is perhaps our greatest beauty accessory. Maybe that's why we're afraid of change because if it's wrong, we have to live with it until it grows out!

As an editor and model, I really can't afford any down time due to a bad cut or color job. Adding in that most of the time I'm traveling on short notice and may not be able to schedule an appointment with my stylist. That's why every fashion forward woman should have at least one or two quality wigs in her bag of style tricks. Every working model is fully familiar with hair extensions, add on falls and wiglets.

My original style: Photo shoot for Artisan Studio Works.

Unless you're Lady Gaga or Kim Zolciak (Housewives of Atlanta & Don't Be Tardy) an over the top hairstyle that looks decidedly "wiggy" may not be the way to go. However for appearing in public, professional engagements and travel, you are going to want something natural and flattering.

Fortune Wigs, NYC
This family owned and run establishment is located in Brooklyn and offers online as well as walk in appointments. Most NYC models will go to a dedicated wig salon like Fortune Wigs to have the hair matched or checked against skin tone and "cut in" or styled directly on them. This is important because here you have access to some of the top stylists in the city customizing the hairpiece to your individual specifications. Fortune Wigs further sets themselves apart by offering Virgin European Human Hair which is indisputably the finest in the world.

Having the hair "cut in" brings it to life on you!

Top NYC stylist Esther Tobias adds beautiful layers and movement.

The Salon Experience
Everyone at Fortune Wigs was so helpful and friendly. They treated me like a princess! The selection was incredible and they can even customize your piece with additional hair or highlights / lowlights. All of the pieces I tried on were extremely light, comfortable and natural looking. Esther Tobias is the lead stylist and Fortune Wigs is built on her incredible artistry and reputation. When you order online, your hair selection comes to you in a lovely black round soft box with a mirror. Perfect for traveling! I was so pleased that I look forward to going back again as this was a amazing beauty makeover experience.

Each quality hairpiece ships in its own soft travel case.

Hair Ideas
Since the hair piece I selected is very close in texture to my own hair, I am able to treat it just like my own! I use Calista Ion Hot Rollers which are very gentle on my hair. Virgin European Hair like this has not been processed or colored so it is soft, silky and very healthy. Fortune Wigs sells only human hair pieces and has Kosher Certification for women who cover their hair for religious requirements. Wear it up or down. Back in a pony tail or in an up sweep. The choice is yours without the commitment of changing your own natural hair color or texture. Whether you've had hair loss due to medical conditions or a cut/color that's just not working for you, Fortune Wigs can be a lifesaver and change your world. Visit FortuneWigs.com online or call 718-614-1368.

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Hair by Esther Tobias - Fortune Wigs, NYC.  Makeup: Kett Cosmetics, NYC.   Photo: Kenneth Deutsch, NYC

Hair & Styling c/o Fortune Wigs NYC
Special thanks to Joseph Y. Miczak for our transportation and lunch at Junior's (Cheesecake) Restaurant in Brooklyn!