Category Archives: HAIR

BACK TO SCHOOL KERATIN TREATMENT AT BRAMBILA SALON

August 19, 2017

My teenage daughter, Margot, has frizzy, brittle, impossible-to-tame hair. She spends every morning battling with anti-frizz serums and flat irons, only to eventually admit defeat and pull her unruly hair back into a pony tail. Last week, for the first time in her life, I decided to do something about it. After all, every year I shower her with back-to-school clothing and supplies.Why not add silky, swingy, shiny hair to the list?

After researching the best salons in Santa Monica, I surprised Margot with a trip to Brambila Salon — and her life is forever changed (or at least for the next six months). After doing a little research or hair smoothing options, I decided to go with the Keratin Treatment. After seeing the smile on Margot’s face, I am so happy I did!

 

First of all, Brambila Salon is super cute. One of the best kept secrets in Santa Monica, Brambila is located in a beachside bungalow off Ocean Ave., right around the corner from The Fairmont Hotel. Sitting in my chair I had views of palm trees and sand, and lunch delivered next door from Blue Plate Oysterette — not a bad way to spend an hour and a half! Plus Brambila is stocked with all my favorite Oribe products — and even offers delicious coffee and fresh baked goods.

Our stylist, Morgan Yee was amazing. Warm and down-to-earth, Morgan had zero of the attitude that can be found in Beverly Hills or Hollywood salons. She was super approachable and gave us some great tips about how to keep Margot’s hair healthy and how to keep the Keratin lasting longer.

After a quick shampoo and condition, Morgan applied the Keratin formula. To my surprise, there was no bad smell, no scalp irritation, and no discomfort whatsoever. Once Margot’s hair was completely saturated, she was given a blowdry, and then her strands were straightened. And voila — done!

One week later, Margot’s frizzy hair dries smooth, silky, and shiny in under ten minutes. She no longer plays tug-of-war with her hair in the morning, and, most importantly, her smile is brighter because she looks — and feels — beautiful. She still haves her beachy waves, only now they are silky and manageable. This was, in fact, life changing for her. Great way to start the school year! Thank you Brambila Salon!

xx, Natasha

 

Brambila Salon

1327 Ocean Avenue, Suite A

Santa Monica, CA 90401

(310) 458-3770

info@brambilasalon.com

https://www.brambilasalon.com/

Tuesday – Saturday: 9:30am – 6pm

Closed on Sunday & Monday

Modern Masculinity: Men’s Grooming Day 2017

August 18, 2017

For National Men’s Grooming Day, Groomed LA teamed up with Baxter of California to support their #LifeLivedTrue Campaign. Baxter of California, a brand born in LA from its founder’s independent spirit, sought to reimagine its position in men’s grooming through provoking, real stories and cultural observations that connect with evolving trends, preferences, and lifestyles.  The resulting brand campaign, “Life Lived True,” is an honest depiction that grounds the brand in a modern California culture through a lens that is inclusive of all expressions of masculinity—modern masculinity. “Life Lived True is about being honest with yourself, embracing your imperfections, and not being afraid to showcase who you are as you experience life. This campaign aims to show our consumers that we will never be a brand that wants to dictate who they should be or how they should live their lives. Baxter of California wants to be a partner on your journey, empowering you to make your unique mark on the world by living freely and authentically,” notes Baxter of California’s Global General Manager, Yann Joffredo.

The brand teamed up with agency of record Exposure America and photographer Ben Grieme to introduce “Life Lived True” in the city it has called home since 1965—Los Angeles. The series of portraits, accompanied by scenic imagery, shine a light on the diverse subjects, cast from the streets of LA—true to the spirit and culture of this city.  It was important for the brand that this honest, authentic spirit of California culture was captured not only by the subjects’ stories and their environments, but also through their unique styles and grooming habits. The brand enlisted the help of Baxter of California Lead Stylist, Whitney VerMeer, to get the job done.

“I work with a lot of career models, but my favorite projects are the ones where I cast people from Instagram or someone I pass on the street who has an interesting or intriguing look – most don’t have a modeling background in any capacity. There’s something really beautiful about watching a person transform behind camera and see their confidence blossom throughout the process. It was easy to appreciate the fresh approach and styling of this Baxter of California shoot since it’s very much in line with what I do,” Whitney VerMeer, Baxter of California Lead Stylist and NAHA 2017 Men’s Hairstylist of the Year.

xx Jonathan Stinson 

Kim Vō at Kim Vō Salon at Montage Beverly Hills.

August 4, 2017

 Kim Vō is one of those uber-genius, master-colorist to the stars that a girl literally dreams about having the chance to have her hair colored from. Lucky for me, I did!!! The good news is, you can too at the Kim Vō Salon at Montage Beverly Hills.

With a client list that reads like a who’s who of Hollywood’s favorite flaxen beauties, Vo has touched the tresses of Brittany Spears, Pamela Anderson, Jessica Alba and Kate Hudson to name just a few. But you would never know it. Sitting in his chair while he paints your hair like a canvas, Vo is truly one of the coolest, down-to-earth, no bullshit A-list stylists I have ever met. He’s bright and funny, interested and interesting, caring and kind. He’s the kind of guy that makes you feel — and look — like a celebrity. He’s so easy to be around you want to kidnap him from the salon, take him shopping down the street at Barneys, then bring him home to Mom.

Though Kim has been hailed by Vogue as “the best blonder in the business”, don’t let the buzz fool you. I am a brunette and he turned my faded, broken, fried summer hair  into gorgeous shiny locks in under 45 minutes. As much as I hate taking selfies, I couldn’t help but snap this shot in the lobby of The Montage before leaving. I looked — and felt — like I was walking down the red carpet.

Book your appointment now. And bring Mom!

Kim Vō

Montage Hotel

225 N Canon Dr

Beverly Hills, CA 90210

310.860.7854

kimvosalon@montagehotels.com

XX Natasha

  

KIM!

NATASHA’S SUMMER BEACH BAG ESSENTIALS

July 30, 2017

You’ve booked your flight and bought your bikini. What’s next on your summer vacation to-do list? Stock up on the very best summer beauty products! We’ve rounded up some of our favorite beauty finds to keep your skin and hair protected from the sun, surf and sand.

ACURE’s Dry Oil Body Sprays — Lock in moisture and get your summer glow on with ACURE’s Dry Oil Body Sprays. These ultra-lightweight, easily absorbed conditioning sprays are available in three delicious scents—Citrus Ginger, Coconut and — my favorite — Rose. With just one spritz, skin is soothed and moisturized without that greasy feel, and — even better —  you can tame frizzy salt-stiffened strands by spraying on your hair! 2 in one! RETAIL PRICE/AVAILABILITY: $12.99 each, available at www.acureorganics.com

DERM iNSTITUTE’s Cellular Brightening Daily Defense SPF 50 — Summer’s the time to soak in those rays—just make sure to apply DERM iNSTITUTE’s Cellular Brightening Daily Defense SPF 50, a 2-in-1 brightening moisturizer and physical sunscreen. Enriched with anti-oxidants and therapeutic herbs, skin is protected from free radical damage. In addition, broad spectrum SPF 50 blocks the sun’s harmful UV rays, so you’re able to enjoy the sun without worrying about damage or burning. Added bonus — it smells like cookie dough! RETAIL PRICE/AVAILABILITY: $110, available now at www.diskincare.com   

INOAR’s Argan Oil — Everyone knows the sun, wind, chlorine and salt water are super damaging to the hair. That’s why my hair mantra this summer is, “condition, condition, condition.” If you want to take hair conditioning routine to the next level, try INOAR’s Argan Oil, which eliminates frizz, smooths hair, and locks in hydration. This oil will leave your hair super silky and smooth — and never weighed down. RETAIL PRICE/AVAILABILITY: $34, available now at www.inoarprofessional.com

Philip Kingsley After-Sun Scalp Mask — Forgot to pack your hat? Got a little too much sun? End your day with the Philip Kingsley After-Sun Scalp Mask. This calming scalp mask is ideal for soothing sun-burnt, sensitive skin.  I used it on myself and my daughter — and it was amazing! Infused with Chamomile Extract and hydrating Aloe Vera, this treatment will leave your scalp feeling completely nourished and moisturized. Apply directly to your scalp, and rinse off after 10 minutes. It’s that easy! RETAIL PRICE/AVAILABILITY: $30, available at www.philipkingsley.com

XX Natasha B.

Peta Certified Beauty Store Has You Covered! Vanity Planet

July 26, 2017

How is this for a mission statement:

we’re not your average beauty company. from day one we made it our mission to cut the b.s. and create a brand that combats the idea that beauty is shallow. sure, we like to get dolled up and admire our foxy selves in the mirror, but that doesn’t mean we’re self-obsessed or conceited. we just know that when we look good, we feel great. and who wouldn’t want that?

vanity planet exists to bring you rad products, straightforward benefits, and daring content to help extract your best. there’s no shame in an awe-worthy complexion or head-turning hair. why? because taking care of your exceptional self means a bold, more confident you in this crazy world. we’re here to be an unapologetic shout in a crowd of conformity. after all, being the beautiful babe you are should never be boring.

Cruelty Free Icon

So yah. This is a site you need to know amount. Quality and well edited. Vegan. Cruelty-free. I was quickly able to scour some top notch much needed goodies in seconds – the site is adorable and excellently designed! Class Act!

My top picks are here – but this is only because I am stocked up on so much good stuff to review. The site is chock full of so many goodies.

Ultimate Facial Cleansing System

The Mack Mama!!

The Ultimate Skin Spa is a dual-speed, rotary device designed to address the needs of multiple skin types all in one system. Because let’s face it, our skin changes with the weather so our skincare routine should too. Luckily, this system is designed to fit the needs of your skin year-round.

about the product
The first time you wash your face with the Vanity Planet Ultimate Skin Spa Facial Cleansing Brush will feel like the first time you’ve ever truly washed your face! OK, so maybe that’s a slight exaggeration, but if you haven’t tried it yet, it’s time for an upgrade!

What feels like a year’s worth of dirt and debris will be gently but thoroughly buffed away, leaving nothing but smooth, soft, glowing skin behind. This dual-speed handheld spin brush works with your favorite cleanser and one of three interchangeable brush heads to customize the perfect routine for your skin type.

Pair the lowest speed with the Daily Cleansing Facial Brush Head for a gentle surface cleanse, or use the Exfoliating Brush Head with the highest speed to slough off dead skin cells and reveal a radiant complexion. There’s something for those with sensitive skin as well – the Silicone Facial Brush head has soft bristles to massage skin clean rather than buff or scrub. Get ready to glow!

  • Dual-speed lightweight spin brush suitable for all skin types, including the most sensitive
  • Gently but thoroughly removes hard-to-get dirt, makeup, and debris
  • Water-resistant for use in the shower
  • Skin is left clean, smooth, and ready to absorb masks, serums, and moisturizer
  • 3 interchangeable brush heads are included: Daily Cleansing, Exfoliating to be used once a week, and Silicone for sensitive skin
  • Includes hard protective case for storage and travel
  • Cordless; operates on 2 AA batteries (not included)
    AND LOOK!!!

Elite Sonic Toothbrush

I have been searching HIGH and LOW for the mutha load – and here it is!!

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Get the most efficient clean, without the hassle! At 40,000 brush strokes per minute, the Elite Sonic Toothbrush puts in the hard work so you don’t have to. Get a truly effortless white smile in as little as two minutes, twice a day.

about the product
Even the most stubborn plaque and residue are no match for the Elite Sonic Toothbrush, that operates at 40,000 strokes per minute. With DuPont Bristles and its Two-Minute Smart Auto Timer, the Elite Sonic Toothbrush gives you an optimal clean in record time. The toothbrush boasts three modes—Clean, Dazzle, and Pulse—to match your smile’s needs. To give your toothbrush a charge lasting up to two weeks, place the handle in the included Charging Base. Keep your brush heads in the UV Sanitizing compartment, killing germs and ensuring nothing stands in the way of those pearly whites.

Key Benefits:
• Optimal clean: UV Sanitizer kills 99% of germs and bacteria on your brush heads
• Two-Minute Smart Auto Timer promotes brushing for the ADA-recommended time, notifying you when to change areas
• One full charge that lasts up to two weeks
• Includes two brush heads and one interdental brush head so you can kiss plaque goodbye

Grove Rejuvineting Scalp Massager

Groove | Scalp Massaging Shampoo Brush, Scalp Massager, - Vanity Planet

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A scalp massage is an easy shortcut to relaxation and stress release – just think about how great you feel after having your hair shampooed at the salon. But scalp massage comes with a ton of additional benefits – it increases blood flow to your scalp to promote hair growth, distributes natural oils to boost hair luster, and can help to control or even eliminate dandruff. The Vanity Planet Groove Rejuvenating Scalp Massager is a gently vibrating handheld massager that gives you all the benefits of a salon scalp massage in your own shower.

The Vanity Planet Groove Rejuvenating Scalp Massager is water-resistant and fits perfectly in the palm of your hand, allowing you to use as little or as much pressure as you’d like. It has flexible rubber tips that comfortably stimulate and gently exfoliate your scalp while lathering up your favorite shampoo, or distributing your favorite conditioner or hydrating hair oil. You can also use the Vanity Planet Rejuvenating Scalp Massager outside of the shower to unwind.

about the product
Make the most of your hair care routine with this nifty scalp massaging shampoo brush. Groove Rejuvenating Scalp Massager is a battery-powered, vibrating brush that has blunt, rubber bristles that gently loosen dead skin cells and oil buildup while giving the scalp a soothing mini-massage. This device is perfect for massaging dense and thick hair, including braids, extensions, and weaves. Not only does this brush make cleansing your scalp a breeze, but it also helps promote blood flow to the scalp, which can increase scalp health and hair growth—let’s get real, we all want full, luscious locks!

Key Benefits: 
• Helps promote hair growth and scalp health
• Lifts away dead skin cells and oil buildup on the scalp
• Pairs well with your favorite shampoo and conditioner
• Increases blood flow to the scalp
• Thoroughly cleans braids, weaves, and extensions
• Vibrations offer a relaxing massage