One of our 2016 goals is to create the largest community of Organic Hair Stylists.

To foster a place where pioneering beauty professionals can share their passion, creativity, and support for one another. Organic Hair Stylists are truly one-of-a-kind, and that’s why every month we choose to spotlight one member of our rapidly growing community!

It’s already February, and our newest Organic Way Colorist of the Month is Tatyana Kosogina!

She’s been an inspiration in our Oway Holistic Hair Stylist Forum, displaying her stunning color transformations. Be sure to read her interview below and check out her gorgeous work!

How long have you been an organic hair stylist and why is organic important to you?

I have been an Organic Stylist for a little over 5 years and I believe that clean air, clean water and clean products are key to the well being of stylists and clients.

What back bar products do you find most helpful? And what are your favorite retail items?

Hbalance, Rebuilding and Smoothing shampoos and treatments are the key to your success at the back bar.

I also can’t live without Glossy Nectar and Volumizing Root Spray.

What tips do you have for new users or those who are looking into purchasing Organic Way hair color and products?

Oway by far outperforms any line I have ever used in every aspect. Beautiful vibrant colors, simple to use and the cleanest ingredients available on the market today. By investing in Oway you are investing in your future of health and prosperity.

What benefits have you found from using social media and online colorist forums?

Online media and forums are a great way to gain more knowledge and learn from others at no cost!

How do you plan to keep yourself and your salon inspired in 2016?

I can’t wait to join everyone in Florida for Train the Trainer and continue my growth by bringing new knowledge back to the salon and start teaching.

Join Tatyana and other like-minded stylists in our Organic Way Holistic Hair Colorist Group here!

When it comes to hair and scalp care, your garden is only as good as your soil. Meaning, in order to achieve healthy hair, the scalp needs to be in balance. The Organic Way (Oway) has a wide range of in-salon organic scalp treatments, retail products and tools that will transform you from Hair Stylist to Scalp Specialist.

Today, we take you through a complete consultation and step-by-step with Midori Organic Salon & Spa and their client concerned with hair loss.

Here are the materials you’ll need to complete your organic scalp treatment for hair loss:

• Trichoanalyzer
• Oway Scalp Problems & Treatments Poster (Download Here)
• Pure Biodynamic Helichrysum
• Zanthoxylum Soothing Gel
• Microstimulating Hair Bath
• Densifying Remedy Vials (Salon Treatment)
• Densifying Remedy Retail (optional)
• Bowl & Application Brush

Step 1: Analyze & Identify Scalp Issues with a Trichoanalyzer

Oway’s Trichoanalzyer is a state-of-the-art scalp and hair diagnostic tool, allowing you to get an “under the microscope” view of the hair and scalp. Not only is this an interactive experience for your client, but you’re able to show them real results of your scalp treatments.

We recommend having your Oway Scalp Problems & Treatment Poster handy, so you’re able to easily identify scalp issues.

After analyzing their client’s scalp, Midori Organic Salon & Spa concluded this client was suffering from Hair Loss: Case 2 – Cutaneous Tropism. This occurs when the hair is thinning in the front or top of the head due to tough, tightened scalp skin; this causes a lack of nourishment to the hair and scalp.

The recommended amount of treatment sessions for this hair loss case is 10-12.

Step 2: Customize Your Organic Scalp Treatment

Following the guidelines on the Oway Scalp Problems & Treatments Poster, this client will need a scalp treatment with Pure Biodynamic Helichrysum and Zanthoxylum Gel.

Step 3: Measure Your Micronized Botanicals

The micronized helichrysum will soothe any inflammation of the scalp that is preventing the proper uptake of nutrients, while providing protection against oxidative damage.

Measuring ratio: 2 teaspoons of helichrysum to every 50ml of Zanthoxylum Gel.

Step 4: Measure Zanthoxylum Gel

Zanthoxylum is an ancient Chinese herbal remedy used for its anti-septic and stimulation properties. Allatonin is a known “cell proliferant.” It activates follicle cell growth and reproduction, while moisturizing and protecting the scalp.

Mixing ration: 50mL of Zanthoxylum Gel to every 2 teaspoons of Biodynamic Helichrysum

Step 5: Mix Customized Organic Scalp Treatment

Step 6: Apply Mixture with Soft Application Brush

Focusing on the client’s problem area, apply the treatment mix to the scalp. We recommend using a soft application brush for this. Your application strokes should be gentle and therapeutic, while ensuring the scalp is properly saturated.

Step 7: Massage in for 5-8 minutes

Depending on your organic scalp treatment, each case will call for different levels of rigor and pressure during your massage step. For this hair loss treatment, you will want to massage intensely for 5-8 minutes.

Leave product on for 10 minutes after massaging into scalp.

Step 8: Rinse & Shampoo with Prescribed Hair Bath

Rinse the organic scalp treatment mix from the hair and scalp with warm water. Follow up with the correct hair bath. In this scenario, that would be the Microstimulating Hair Bath – an organic shampoo intended for hair loss.

Microstimulating Hair Bath eliminates toxins and reactivates microcirculation of the scalp, while nourishing the hair bulbs. The Biodynamic Horse-chestnut in this product is packed full of saponin and esculin. These naturally-occurring ingredients regulate the hair’s permeability and resilience. They improve blood vessel circulation and delivery of nutrients to the hair and scalp.

Step 9: Select Correct Scalp Remedy

After you’ve rinsed Microstimulation Hair Bath from the scalp, gently dry your client’s hair and select the correct organic scalp treatment product.

In this case, we’ll be using the Densifying Remedy vials. The vials are a very concentrated recipe of powerful plant botanicals, intended for use during your in-salon scalp treatments.

Densifying Remedy contains Buddleja Davidii Plant Stem Cells, which help hair follicle cells renew and increase in number.

Step 10: Apply Densifying Remedy & Massage

Apply Densifying Remedy directly to the scalp and massage in for at least 5 minutes.

Step 11: Post-Treatment Trichoanalyzation

For this type of hair loss, your client would need to have consecutive appointments to see the best results. Using your Trichoanalyzer before and after each scalp treatment session will show your client firsthand the results and progress you’ve made.

It will also aid in your selling of retail products, which is the final step of your organic scalp treatment.

Step 12: Take Home Remedies & Organic Hair Care

For the best results, you’ll want to retail the following items to your client:

• Microstimulating Hair Bath
• Densifying Remedy (Retail Spray)

What do you think? Will your salon be adding organic scalp treatments from Oway to your list of services?

Congratulations to Star Rummelt from Midori Organic Salon in Largo, FL! She is our crowned Oway Stylist of the Month for March 2016.

Midori, which originally launched in Clearwater, FL is one of the first North American salons to completely adopt the Organic Way and will soon be opening it’s doors to a third location, so congrats all around!

Below, we interviewed Star about her experience with Oway hair color and what spring trends might be emerging this year. Be sure to check out the pictures of her gorgeous work!

How did you become interested in organic hair color? What about Organic Way do you love the most?

The smells in the salon that I was working in previously made me ill. I was looking for a better option for myself and found Midori. Since becoming an Organic Colorist I was able to continue coloring hair, have twins, and stay in a healthy work environment! I wouldn’t have it any other way!

I love that it has the effect of healing the hair. I love the use of essential oils. I love how soft it makes the hair feel! But I also truly love how effective the performance of the color is. Lots of love!

Oway’s organic retail and care lines are pretty extensive! Do you have any favorites so far?

I love Glamshine Cloud because who doesn’t love super shiny hair?

It’s like pixie dust. Everyone must have it!

I also love the boho pomade it’s great on short and long hair because it never feels sticky or heavy but adds the texture and separation to really show off a great haircut.

Have you discovered any tips or tricks with Oway hair color that you can share with our new users?

I enjoy using the 90 series with added boosters to create muted colors such as slates, silvers, and rose golds. I also used the 11.17 with .1 booster and that made a really unique iridescent silver / gray which I am currently rocking on my own hair and loving!

Use your downtime to play. Save hair and formulate. I always save old extension hair and see what I can come up with. I’ve been an organic colorist for over 6 years and a cosmetologist for 8 years. I never stop playing! Get creative and have fun this line, it’s amazing!

Do you have a favorite Organic Way color or formula you would like to share?

My best formula so far is 1/2 9.0 and 1/2 10.1 for a beautiful natural blonde on 100% white hair! I have struggled with coverage for years with one of my guests and now with this formula she is beaming every time I see her!

She even comes in more often now because she loves her hair that much. This formula is more translucent but plays up her white hair and adds just enough blonde to be perfect! You can see her pictured here on the right – all smiles!

Which hair color trends do you foresee for Spring 2016? Is there anything you hope takes off this year?

I’m hearing a lot about the denim hair color trend. I think we will see a lot of this. Our grey trend is going a little blue! I am playing with formulas already and will share results to the forum!

I like a rooted look but am preferring to break it up a bit with microlites. This is my favorite look right now.

Social media is a powerful tool, has our Oway Holistic Hair Stylist Forum Group on Facebook benefited you in any way?

Absolutely. I get to connect with other organic colonists and share experiences which is an excellent resource for all of us. I would like to see the industry change and together we can create a strong community to make this happen!

Join Star and other like-minded stylists in our Organic Way Holistic Hair Colorist Group here!

For the month of March the Spotlight is on Meredith Johnson, congratulations!

She is the newest O&M Colorist of the month. She has been sharing some killer fashion shades that she created and we just couldn’t get enough! Below we interviewed her on her O&M journey and where she plans to go next.

Don’t forget to take a look at her gorgeous work at the bottom, you might just find some spring inspiration!

In the world of non toxic hair color what about O&M CCT stands out to you?

O&M stands out because it’s a very wide range of tones, the possibilities are endless and that’s exactly what the stylist needs in this creative color era.

Do you have any tips or tricks you could give to a new O&M stylist?

I myself am fairly new to O&M , I would say the color chart is key. Understanding the undertones and using them to your advantage will guarantee success.

Also, O&M tends to look dark when processing, do not feel fearful and rinse before the recommended processing time has been fulfilled .

Do you have any favorite styling products?

My favorite product is the O&M Surf Bomb.

Once I’ve curled the hair in a wave pattern, I let the curls cool, then I tousle them and spray the Surf Bomb simultaneously to create the perfect beachy look.

Your work is flawless! Where do you find inspiration for these beautiful fashion shades and do you have any favorite O&M colors or formulations?

That’s the compliment all stylists want to hear but never think we deserve. Thank you so much.
I could say I draw most of my inspiration from nature, which is true, but my clients inspire me more than anything else.

Their individual beauty, personalities, and triumphs through life give me all the inspiration I think I’ll ever need.
My absolute favorite in the O&M line right now are the Pearl tones .

For example, 8/81 + 9/8 + 10/16 is the perfect toner for a pearlescent blonde.

What color trends do you foresee for spring 2016?

2016 is already a rebellious year in the hair world. Playing with warm and cool tones in a way that they compliment each-other without clashing. Creating fantasy colors at every level, fun colors aren’t just for blondes anymore .

You have been awesome with sharing your work in the online forum, what about the online community do you enjoy the most?

I love the online forum! It is vital for stylists to be able to communicate, formulate and problem solve together. The O&M forum gives us a fun, judgement free zone to do just that.

Join Meredith and other like-minded stylists in the O&M Hair Color Forum here!

Ever wish you had an organic, non-toxic hair color barrier cream? How about a simple, inexpensive way to alleviate scalp discomfort for those extra sensitive clients? HScreen can do all of these things and more!

Check out these 5 unbelievable salon uses for Oway’s Hscreen below:

Hscreen is an “invisible glove” for hair stylist hands and nails.

Proper hair color applications usually require gloves. However, the constant rubbing of hands against latex or at the shampoo bowl can cause overly dry hands or even dermatitis. Hscreen is the perfect skin and cuticle protectant for hair stylists who don’t want to look like they just murdered a smurf or changed a tire.

Directions: Pump 3-4 drops into hands. Rub together, paying extra attention to the cuticles. Note: Hscreen is easily removed with soap and water and won’t leave the hands feeling sticky or coated.

Hscreen prevents hair color staining on the skin and scalp.

The best way to take the attention off your client’s fabulous color service is for them to walk out with scalp staining. Hscreen’s innovative formula ensures hair color molecules penetrate the hair only. That way, clients never have to leave with unsightly scalp or skin staining.

Directions: Apply directly to the hairline or mix 3-4 drops into a bowl of color to prevent staining on the scalp with darker colors.

Hscreen shields scrapes, small cuts and moles.

Does your client have a small cut or sensitive area? Ditch the bandaid. Hscreen be applied directly to sensitive or exposed areas of the scalp during any chemical treatment (coloring, lightening, perming, straightening) for extra skin/scalp protection.

Directions: Apply directly to sensitive areas on the scalp (sores, rashes, small cuts or abrasions, moles) to create a barrier between the skin and any chemical treatment.

Hscreen can be used for client’s with allergies or sensitivities.

Hscreen’s soothing lavender essential oil mixed with it’s innovative use of polysorbates makes it an ideal option for clients with extreme allergies or sensitivities. Hscreen can be added directly to your color formula for extra protection.

Directions: Add 3-4 drops per bowl of color. Note: It’s always recommended to patch test a sample of Hscreen and color beforehand. View hair color patch test here.

Hscreen can be used to create a clear shine gloss.

For a high shine, clear gloss, Hscreen can be mixed with Hmilk No Stress and Htone (9vol).

Directions: 3/4 Hmilk no stress. 1/4 9 volume. 10-15 pumps of Hscreen. 10-15 minutes processing out, no cap, no heat. Rinse, condition with Hbalance, and style.

Hscreen Key Ingredients

This product is full of 99% natural, organic, and biodynamic ingredients that aid in protecting the skin and improving the hair. Some of those ingredients are:

Perilla Seed Oil – rich in fatty acids, soothes the scalp, and combats aging and free radicals.

Cottonseed Protein – gives structure to the hair, repairing, nourishing and softening the strands while preventing drying.

Hibiscus Flower Extract – rich in flavonoids, organic acids, carbohydrates, and vitamins. It is a powerful antioxidant and adds shine to hair.

Date Seed Oil – nourishes, improves elasticity, and adds structure to the hair.

Lavender Essential Oil – alleviates inflammation and soothes skin and scalp

What is Organic Hair Color?

In the professional beauty industry, the term “organic hair color” refers to hair color made with organic botanicals and less chemicals. Organic, in this sense, is the same definition we use for our organic food standards:

Botanicals grown without the use of pesticides.

Does 100% Organic Hair Color Exist?

No. At this time, professional organic hair color must contain a certain percentage of synthetic ingredients to work consistently and effectively. But that doesn’t mean you can’t find a color line that uses the maximum amount of organic ingredients and the least amount of toxic chemicals.

Note: The only completely natural hair color is certain brands of henna. However, using henna on the hair isn’t always suitable for grey coverage and metallic salts can cause the hair to feel dry and damaged over time.

Does Organic Hair Color Work?

Recall, no professional organic hair color brand is 100% natural. Any organic hair color product will contain a certain amount of chemicals necessary to perform. When searching for an organic hair color company what you need to ask about is percentages.

Specifically, what is their percentage of:

• Pigments (PPDs, PTDS, etc)
• pH Adjuster (Ethanolamine, etc)
• Organic Ingredients (meaning botanicals only)!
• Natural Ingredients
• Naturally Derived Ingredients

Once you’ve determined the percentages of these components, you’ll be able to better decide which brand is the most “organic.”

Is Ammonia Considered an Organic Ingredient?

The best professional organic hair color brands have removed ammonia from their formulas. Why? As a gaseous substance, it’s been proven to cause respiratory issues, breathing challenges and allergies. Plus, most clients will agree: not having to smell ammonia is a much more pleasant experience.

To be clear: ammonia is a chemical organic compound. Not an organic botanical ingredient.

In chemistry terms, an organic compound means one thing: its molecules contain carbon. That’s it. It doesn’t speak to the safety or natural aspects of the ingredient. So, the next time someone says “ammonia is organic, it comes from the Earth” know this:

Ammonia is one of the most widely produced chemicals in the world. Ammonia found in hair color is not extracted from the soil or our bodies, it’s produced in a lab and has zero natural components.

What About Professional Ammonia Free Hair Color?

Not all ammonia-free hair color brands are created equal.

Simply choosing an ammonia-free hair color doesn’t ensure your clients hair will be healthier or that they won’t have an adverse reaction. While most ammonia-free hair colors won’t have the fume-like aroma of ammoniated hair color, they can still do more damage than necessary to the hair.

Here’s why:

Most brands use Ethanolamine (MEA) to replace ammonia, but they don’t consider the percentages of this ingredient. Both Ethanolamine and ammonia’s role in hair color is to raise the pH of the hair so the color molecules can penetrate.

When you use too much of either ingredient, the pH of the hair is drastically altered and the cuticle will have difficulty re-closing – even with a good conditioner. When the cuticle is unable to close, shine does not reflect off the scales because they’re disheveled and open, instead of tightly packed down.

Also, hair color will fade faster because of the cuticle’s inability to close and lock in molecules.

What’s the Best Professional Ammonia Free Hair Color?

You’ll want to choose an ammonia-free hair color line that uses their pH adjuster in minimal amounts. You’ll also want to choose a brand that ensures all Ethanolamine (MEA) is removed from the hair.

For example, Oway’s Hsystem is an award-winning ammonia-free, professional “organic hair color” line with service products that ensure all product is removed, while keeping the working pH of the color much lower than your typical ammonia-free hair color brand.

To learn more about how Oway uses green chemistry and the maximum amount of organic ingredients possible go here.

To kickoff Earth Month, we’re couldn’t be more excited to share our Spring 2016 Collection: Garden Party. These captivating photos by Robert Lynden, grace the cover and inside pages of American Salon Magazine. The collection was completely inspired by our newest line and partners in the professional organic beauty movement, Organic Way (Oway).

“From Oway’s beautiful biodynamic botanicals to their unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability – these were just some  ofthe values that helped guide our creative vision for the shoot,” says our Education Director, Rebecca Gregory.

“We wanted to show non-toxic, organic products are both effective for your every day client and even on set of major photoshoots and TV productions. We also wanted to show off the versatility of the line, by embracing different hair textures,” continues Jennifer Andrews, our Creative Director. “We hope you enjoy the collection and are inspired by the products and company as much as we are.”

The Cover

To create these voluminous, spring happy curls, Rebecca set the hair on the smallest iron available from CoCr8 – think of a pin afro. She used Sculpting Mist, Oway’s strong hold, eco-hair spray to create her hard-hold set, while keeping the volume inside and around the root.

The hair was then heavily backcombed with a few bits and pieces allowed to escape around the face. Finished off with Glameshine Cloud Spray on the ends for a little sheen and shine.

Free Spirit

To create these tousled waves, Jennifer looked to Oway’s Flux Potion. It’s a fabulous alternative to mousse prior to blow drying to create a full, flexible style.

She added shine, while sealing split ends with Nurturing Drops. A highly concentrated styling and restorative serum made with organic black quinoa and fair trade aamla.

Age of Innocence

For texture and volume, Jennifer looked to Oway’s Sea Salt Spray. It’s a fabulous texturizer made with Balinese Sea Salt and pure essential oils for anyone who doesn’t like a structured blowout. She used it to add a little “grit” to the hair before crimping it all over.

The waves were then brushed out, and she pinned the hair back using Sculpting Mist, which actually treats and moisturizes the hair, while holding it in place

Sexy, Sustainable Waves

The key to creating this look was Oway’s Glossy Nectar. All of Oway’s products are made with 100% pure essential oils, biodynamic and organic botanicals, as well as fair trade ingredients. Jennifer worked in this restorative serum from roots to ends to give the hair polished appearance before locking it in with Sculpting Mist.

Sculpting Mist is a non-aerosol, eco-friendly hair spray that truly delivers without adversely affecting the environment or health of the stylist and client.

Wild Flower Child

To create this maxed-out curl that looks healthy and hydrated, Jennifer once again looked to Glossy Nectar to get the job done. This product actually penetrated the cuticle to repair, strengthen and hydrate even the most unruly strands from the inside out.

Before using a double-barrel curling iron iron to set the small curls, she applied Oway’s Thermal Stress Protector. It’s a medium-hold, heat protection spray that guards the cuticle up to an astounding 437 degrees Fahrenheit.

After finger coming the curls, she applied Scuplting Mist to set the style.

Waves of Eco Beauty

For these glamorous waves, Rebecca applied Flux Potion before blow drying the hair. Sculpting Mist provided the support she needed to hold a set, which was created with a medium-barrel curling iron.

After, she used her fingers to “brush out” the curls, and applied Glamshine Clould Spray. This high shine, finishing spray adds lightweight moisture and reflective properties without weighing the hair down.

Kaila Ward is Oway Colorist of the Month for April 2016!

She has been sharing everything from subtle balayage to bold fashion shades in our Oway Holistic Stylist Forum. She has even shared her fun updos and styles created with Oway’s styling range.

Obviously, we had to interview her to find out more about how Kaila became an organic hair stylist and what her favorite formulas are. Below she shares her story with us and some pictures of her awesome work!

How did you become interested in organic hair color?

I think it started when I became more aware of the food I was consuming and understanding the benefits of putting good food in my body versus the dangers of consuming bad food with harmful chemicals. That journey quickly led to the products I was using and being exposed to on a daily basis. The biggest one being a chemical service.

And not just for me, but for my clients, as well. I got to a point where I had had enough of the chemical burns in my nose and difficulty breathing during a color service that I finally switched entirely to a cleaner line and never looked back!

We’re loving the hairstyles you share as well, from subtle waves to braids and updos. What are your favorite Oway products to create these fun looks?

Sea Salt Spray is my ultimate go-to to add the texture I need for waves. And finishing those styles off with the Sculpting Mist…it’s perfection.

For my braids and updos I am forever hooked on Precious Wax! It allows me to have flexibility and slip when styling while also taming the fly aways without making the hair greasy. It’s great to be able to use products that not only contain amazing ingredients but actually work!

We’ve seen you post some great balayage looks. Do you have any tips for using the Hbleach butter lightener?

I’ve been using the suggested 1:2 ratio (lightener to developer), and it’s been great for free hand painting and inside foils. It coats every part of the hair, so I never worry about spots.

Do you have any frequently used or favorite formulas you have done that you would like to share?

Well, who doesn’t love 11.17 with 9 vol to tone with? Am I right? Seriously, that’s my absolute favorite when toning blonde hair to cancel out that yellow and make it nice and cool.

I recently tested out Hnectar on myself. My natural level is a 6. I used equal parts of 5.0 and 7.35 with 9 volume for about 20-25 minutes. I can’t tell you how many compliments I got on the color and shine. It was the perfect “brunette”. I will definitely be using that formula on myself again and clients.

What advice do you have for hairstylists that are new to Organic Way hair color?

Just jump right in! The benefits out way all the hesitation or fears you might have of trying something new. And the amount of support and passion that everyone has using it is overwhelmingly awesome! I can’t even express how much richer the experience of using Oway has been with people behind it that believe in it so much. Not to mention the color line is just down right amazing. I feel like I found my color line soul mate.

Join Kaila and other like-minded stylists in our Organic Way Holistic Hair Colorist Group here!

Josie Ragains is our O&M Colorist of the Month for April 2016!

She has been posting some beautiful blondes and rich browns in our O&M Colorist Forum, so we took the time to interview her to see if she could share some of her secrets with us. Below she tells us how she made the journey to non-toxic beauty products and gives her advice on O&M color for the newbies.

Don’t forget to take a look at the photos of her work at the bottom!

Congratulations on your new space, Josie’s Organic Hair Studio! How did you originally become interested in healthier beauty products?

Thank you! Honestly, what originally made me interested in healthier beauty products was to try to find a company that didn’t test on animals or use any animal products since this is a belief I practice in my everyday life. The fact that it’s a healthier alternative to mainstream hair products is just icing on the cake.

I was getting progressively sick as a hair stylist and thought I would have to give up a career that I loved. My health has improved tremendously since I made the switch. I have no idea how much my health would benefit from eliminating toxic chemicals in my work place.

What O&M styling and care products do you find yourself using the most and why?

My go-to styling product is definitely styling guru. A little goes a long way and it makes my blow-dries go quickly and smoothes even my most coarse haired clients.

What do you like most about O&M color?

Besides that it matches my personal core values, I love that O&M has made it possible for clients to be able to get their color done again that had developed sensitivities to hair color throughout the years. Since it’s free of gluten, ammonia, PPD and resorcinol, my clients feel safe knowing there is a decrease in harsh chemicals during their hair service.

You’ve shared some beautiful blondes in the group! Do you have any tips you can share about the Keratin lightener or toning with O&M?

Sure, I find that I get the best blonde tones when I don’t over lighten the hair. I use primarily 20 volume because it gives me great control in tonality to avoid turning the hair bright yellow or orange. I find that I rarely need to to tone with this lightener, but when I do I love using /16 series. It’s the perfect blend of ash and violet.

Do you have any words of advice for new users of O&M color?

This is a color line has so many benefits, it’s definitely worth learning. Make sure to always measure your color properly, take advantage of the matte series and 0/33 will be your best friend. Adding 0/33 to your formula creates the perfect grey coverage, so I use it in almost all my formulations.

Join Josie and other like-minded stylists in our O&M Hair Color Forum here!

Our May 2016 Organic Way Hair Colorist is Serena Jarvis!

Not only is Serena a certified Organic Hair Colorist, but an inspiring young entrepreneur who knew from a very young age what she was destined for! Below you’ll learn about Serena and why she chooses the Organic Way!

Tell us about yourself! How many years have you been a Stylist?

Last year, I decided to make a big leap and open my own business: Serena Rose Styles.

The passion and love I have for my craft has carried over into the business side of things too. It is hard to believe that I started working for a beauty salon when I was 14, and now I am an entrepreneur! Before I finished high school, I started an apprenticeship and embarked on a career path that has groomed me for the past 11 years into where I am today!

Now, I am a certified organic hairstylist, an up-do’s specialist, an award winning make-up artist, and a beauty coach!

What prompted you to adopt non-toxic, organic salon products?

My preference to obtain a healthy lifestyle started with the choice to become vegetarian at the age of 12. From there, my awareness and desire to better myself grew. The change to non-toxic, organic salon products was natural and effortless! The healthier option, is always the route I choose to take!

What’s your favorite Oway product?

One would think this question would be the easiest to answer, however, I pondered this one the longest!

If I HAD to pick one, I would say Glamshine Cloud is my favorite Oway product. I use it on every person before they leave my chair, and utilize it every weekend during wedding season! It steps up every look and each color shade with a few simple spritz’s!

Why Oway? What about their philosophy and products make it the perfect fit for Serena Rose Styles?

Honestly, I didn’t realize how good of a decision I was making when I chose Oway!

There were so many decisions to be made, and I knew this was one that would shape the rest of my business. Customer service and educating my clients, are 2 things that I pride myself in. They also are 2 (of the many) things that Oway is best at! Patricia (my representative) was so kind, informative, patient, understanding, and happy to be serving me – she sold me on the line! Later, I learned how deeply the company cares for it’s patrons and the environment, without jeopardizing the quality of the product!

In my experience, Oway’s philosophy and products trump all other lines out there and every stylist should be using them!

Do you have any go-to formulas or tips you can give new Oway users?

We all have clients that ask for highlights when they are not booked for them, and with summer approaching everyone wants to ‘be a bit lighter’ before the season starts! I have found a fun and easy way to satisfy customers that takes NO EXTRA TIME!

Pop in a few highlights on top, and pull through the ends (surrounding the highlights and elsewhere) 50% 0.0 and 50% 8.1 or 9.1 with 9V or 20V. Every single person has left happy!

What’s your life quote?

You can only change yourself!

Join Serena and other like-minded stylists in our Organic Way Holistic Hair Colorist Group here!

Simply Organic Education

We’re ecstatic to introduce you to Simply Organic Educator, April Gumbert! She’ll be teaching our Oway Certification Class in Charlotte, NC on June 12th, and we wanted you to learn all about her expertise and passion for professional organic beauty.

Tell us about yourself! How long have you been in the beauty industry?

I have been in the industry for almost 30 years now, even though saying that is hard to believe.I have never gotten tired of this business of beauty; in fact my passion for it is even greater than it was when I first began.

What do you love most about working in our industry?

One thing that I love about this industry is that there is room for the artistic and the mathematical parts of my brain to work in harmony. I see many people who have a flair for the artistic side of the work. They envision and create from their heart. Then there are those whoare rule followers, the ones who read all the manufacturer’s directions and weigh and measure all of their color formulas. Happily, I am both. I combine the rules with the passion and creativity to invent something new each day!

How would you explain your own personal style?

Marrying my two sides together is what results in my own style. I would consider both my personal and professional/work style to be a combination of fun and classic getting along nicely. I love taking a solid classic style and adding a bit of flair to set it apart. A fun, surprising element thrown in the mix is always a good thing. I think that starting with something timeless and bringing in something “fresh and now” is the best of both worlds.

How do you create your best work?

My best work is produced when I take the time needed to know and understand my guests and can make him or her feel their absolute best. When I listen and learn what is important to them I am doing my best work. I could do what I may think is my best work ever, but if my guests aren’t happy with the results, then I haven’t done my job.

Who were/are your mentors?

Many years ago when I went to my first hair show, my professional world changed. I loved watching these people on stage and leading the classrooms who were sharing their ideas and passions with the rest of us. Even now, one of my favorite things to do is to take classes. I have been honored to learn from people like John and Suzanne Chadwick and Martin Parsons while taking classes and hands-on workshops with them.

Then I can’t wait to use and share these ideas with my guests and co-workers. This flowed naturally into becoming an educator. I have been an educator in a variety of capacities; in my own salon, in beauty schools, in front of small to medium sized groups, and now with Simply Organic Beauty assisting and leading groups of organic-minded stylists to learn more about healthy hair color options with Oway!

Why are you excited to be a Simply Organic Educator?

I firmly believe that we can change this industry for the better by educating stylists on options that are better for themselves, their work and their guests. Many stylists and consumers still aren’t even aware that they have such options. If I can have even a small impact on this industry of ours by sharing holistic hairstyling, then I will have been rewarded for my efforts!

Let’s give big Internet high-fives to our June 2016’s Stylist of the Month: Courtney Curtis!

She’s always catching our eye with her gorgeous blondes and creative fashion colors, but this young, talented Hair Stylist is wise beyond her years. In this month’s interview, she not only shares some of her favorite Original & Mineral products, but also a valuable perspective on chemicals in the beauty industry.

As always, the answer is knowledge, education and courage!

1) Tell us about yourself! How long have you been a Hair Stylist / where do you work?

I am 22 years old and I have been doing hair for 4 years. I work at a salon in St George Utah called Destinations Organic Salon and Spa. It’s the only organic salon in our area!

2) Why clean, non-toxic hair color from O&M? Why do you think this is important for the industry?

When I worked at my old salon I learned a lot about what’s in hair color and obviously when you start to learn about what’s going into them and getting on your skin and on your clients skin it’s kind of scary! When I found this salon I figured if I’m going to do this the rest of my life I need to do it with something that won’t hurt me or my clients. And the more I’ve learned the more and more passionate I’ve became about it. I will never go back!

Working in an all organic salon I have heard some crazy stories about how non organic hair product has had long term effects. I’ve heard about clients and hairstylist BOTH being affected.

It’s important for the industry because obviously hair stylist can’t keep putting these bad toxins in our body and we shouldn’t be doing that to our clients either if we are we are doing them a disservice. The industry will not change unless hair stylist get on board and make them change! We have the right to safe product! (though we’ve noticed it’s been VERY hard to make stylist switch) it’s out salons goal to educate everyone and introduce them to a way better way!

3) What’s your favorite O&M styling product or cocktail?

I’m REALLY in love with Project Sukuroi and Style Guru! Sukuroi adds the perfect amount of shine moisture without getting to heavy plus it smells amazing. And style guru gives a perfect base to my blowouts.

4) What is your favorite feature in the O&M product lineup?

I’m a blonde and I love Blondes so the conquer blonde is one of the best purple shampoos I’ve ever used!

5) You’ve done some beautiful fashion colors with O&M. Do you have any tips for your fellow stylists to achieve their best fashion color yet?

With fashion colors or any color is don’t rush it, don’t compromise the hair trying to get there. Take your time and really study your color theory and color wheel and practice, practice and keep pushing yourself!

6) What’s your favorite quote to live by?

“Decisions Determine Destiny.”

Join Courtney and other like-minded stylists in our O&M Hair Color Forum here!

Meet our new Texture Specialist!

We’re ecstatic to introduce you to Simply Organic Educator, Jennea Dorsey-Gordley!

She brings to us years of experience working with textured hair, and more importantly, how to achieve desired results with non-toxic, organic hair products.

She takes a holistic approach to beauty and wellness,  so whether she’s relaxing with Oway’s Waveshaper or teaching clients how to embrace their natural curl, Jennea is our go-to Textured Hair Expert!

Get to know Jennea below!

Introduce yourself! What should everyone know about you?

My name is Jennea Dorsey-Gordley (pronounced Jen’ ay). As a young adult, I started out in corporate America in the fields of Finance and Property Management. After the recession in 2007/2008, I began to explore my childhood passion to open a Wellness Center and Spa. I attended The Baltimore School of Massage and Aveda Fredric’s Institute in Cincinnati. I had been styling hair for family and friends since junior high. At that time, I didn’t really appreciate my gift as a stylist. Both of my parents were educators, but I couldn’t see myself teaching until I got married and raised a family.

Later as an adult, I had the opportunity to work in a salon that specialized in texture in the Washington DC Metropolitan area. I had the pleasure of cutting the locs of Ms. Iyanla Vanzant and styling hundreds of others.

Gaining that experience led me to understand that HAIR was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. It was the first time in my life where I awakened daily EXCITED to go to work!

As Simply Organic Beauty’s new Organic Way Texture Specialist, what do you hope to accomplish?

My hope is to help other stylists feel more comfortable when it comes to servicing the textured client. For the last decade or so, I have witnessed a myriad of textured consumers finding solutions to service themselves. They have become very accustomed to using social media as a resource, (which led many to become product junkies). As my research and analysis continued, I discovered that textured consumers lost trust in the professional cosmetologist.

So, my goal is not only to help give our industry a voice when it comes to texture, but also to help usher in a healthier line of product that is truly organic.

Why is introducing the textured hair world to organic, non-toxic products important to the community?

First off, let me say that hair textured clients come in all shades and nationalities, (some in European cultures as well). In my research, I have found that when is comes to Afro-Decentians, there is a higher rate of various types of cancers.

Personally, I have known two stylists that have died of lung cancer, and neither were smokers. I have known others to have died from very aggressive breast, ovarian and cervical cancers, stylists and consumers alike.

After being raised in a holistic household, and my training in massage therapy, I’ve learned how important it is not to put anything on or in your body that you cannot pronounce. That foundation has led me to the road of wanting others to become more aware of harmful ingredients.

Let’s be frank. Chemicals in salons are a big issue, but especially when it comes to managing textured hair. What myths about organic hair products do you hope to dispel?

Thats a great question, because up until I found OWAY, I was very skeptical about other products out there that claimed to be ‘natural’ relaxers. In fact, when I researched some of those products, I found that they were either not totally natural and/or gave unpleasant ongoing results that consumers were not happy with.

Why Oway? Aren’t there a million organic beauty brands to choose from? What about their philosophy and products makes them great for textured hair?

Yes, there are countless products on the market aforementioned above when it pertains to ‘product junkying’ consumers. There are so many people that have spent thousands of dollars on products searching for the perfect formula without professional guidance.

This is the FIRST line that met my approval that was high quality, farm to chair ingredients and the high-end sleek look I was looking for in comparison to some other big names in the industry. Its a well thought out line!

So far, I am happy to see that they have pretty much thought of every texture in mind when it comes to hair care.

I want to help represent a brand/ product that truly cares about the integrity of the market they serve. If you are marketing an organic line, all of its products should be 100% organic…and OWAY has accomplished that mission!

Which Oway products are your favorite for creating certain looks and why?

Right now, I am really loving the Silk N Glow line and combining Precious Wax and Boho Pomade for twists and loc maintenance. Glossy Nectar and Silk N Glow Serum is my best friend for scalp care on some my clients that have a hard time retaining moisture.

If you could give one piece of advice to those wishing to learn more about textured hair and organic beauty what would you say?

I would tell them to really research ingredients thoroughly before trying/buying. Also, to come to one of my classes to see how best to consult with the textured client, in addition to learning some styling techniques using OWay. Its important to have an open mind and understand that having more experience with highly textured hair is more fun to explore and keeps you fresh!

At Simply Organic Beauty, we  strive to create a community of Holistic Hair Stylists who can share their passion, experience, and endless creativity.

Once a month we put the spotlight on one of our community members and let them share their story with you.

Our July 2016 Oway Hair Colorist is Jenn Kidd! She’s a Hair Stylist at Apotheclaire Salon in Akron, Ohio – where they take an eco-responsible approach to hair, beauty and personal care. Learn more about Jenn in our exclusive interview with her below!

How did you become interested in becoming an organic hair colorist?

Quite simply, I became sick.

I developed serious allergies in the salon that were escalating into other symptoms. After years of trying everything, including using steroids on my hands every night and covering them with gloves, I knew it was time to make some changes. Because of the severity of my sensitivities, I knew my only two options were to find a space where I was in complete control of what was being used or to quit doing hair.

That is how Apotheclaire came to be and that is how I discovered Oway. I was immediately drawn to Oway because of the packaging, let’s be honest – it’s fantastic. I did lots of due diligence and research and testing of other “organic hair color” lines. None of them fit what we were looking for like Oway did.

On a side note – I used to have to take a prescription antihistamine on a daily basis to be able to work. I have not had to take one since making the switch!

You have posted some beautiful balayage work. Do you have any tips or tricks for using Hbleach when lightening? Do you have some “go to” Hcolor formulas for when you’re toning?

Thank you! I am crazy about hbleach. I love the consistency of it and how soft in both color and feel the results are. I am a cautious bleacher and I refuse to compromise anyone’s hair, ever. Using hbleach allows me to push the lightening process a little bit further without the need of any -plex products, knowing how gentle the process is.

When doing balayage, I always like to keep a dry tint brush on my tray and use it at an angle to diffuse and blend any strong lines. This gives extra control and adds extra detailing.

I’m not finding toners as necessary for correcting as much as I am loving the way they can enhance. I have always loved a warm / cool balance with hair color and the .31 series provides perfect tone for that dimension!

Oway has an extensive retail line. Can you tell us your top three picks?

Glamshine Cloud– I spray it on my hands to put in the hair and it gives me extra control over placement.
Flux Potion – That is our swiss army knife of products at the shop.
Scuplting Mist – We do not use aerosols in the shop. So thankful for this non-aerosol gem

Do you have any predictions for 2016 Fall Trends in hair color and hair style?

Always! I think that people are looking for new ways to change up their look with ease. Playing with texture will be huge coming into the fall, on both short and long hair. There are a million ways to get great texture without using heat tools and I love sharing them with clients.

Long hair? Sleep in a braid or twist hair into a bun before going to sleep. Wake up and shake it out. Throw some boho pomade in there and voila! Playing with an extreme side part or adding in vintage accessories are also a fun way to change it up.

I believe color is going to start shying away from all of the bold, direct dyes and steer more towards emulating nature. More gingers, softer blondes and dimensional browns with both warm and cool tones combined. Warm for the winter and cool in the summer!

As a member of our Oway Holistic Hair Stylist Forum Group on Facebook, can you tell us how it has helped or benefited you with your craft?

It has been a great tool to help myself and my co-stylist learn the line. I love that we have such a valuable real-life, in-salon resource to look at and learn from. I’ve been doing this for ten years and switching color lines was intimidating, no matter how well I knew color. I called Rebecca Gregory one day when I was especially freaking out and she talked me through it. The Facebook group and technical support offered by Simply Organic has been priceless. We look at it and are inspired by everyone’s work on a daily basis!

How does your personal style influence your work on clients?

I wear what I want without ever giving a thought to what others will think of my style, because I like it. I truly believe that if you feel great, you can pull anything off with your look. I am not a fan of the “if you’re this size you can’t have short hair” or “if you’re this age you can’t have long hair” rules that some people believe. I hope that I can inspire people to be a little more carefree and wear whatever makes them feel their best!

Join Jenn and other like-minded stylists in our Organic Way Holistic Hair Colorist Group here!

For those with frizzy, hard to manage hair, keratin smoothing treatments can be the ultimate remedy.

However, for some smoothing products, those results came at a price none of us can afford – our health. In this step-by-step, we show you can create smooth, frizz free hair that lasts 3-4 months with our Smooth Rituals Keratin Treatment! Smooth Rituals doesn’t contain common keratin treatment toxins like formaldehyde, methylene glycol, parabens or animal testing.

Rough dry the hair to 75-­80% so that the water will not displace the keratin treatment, but the hair is still left slightly damp. This is best accomplished with a blow dryer. After the rough dry, you will be able to see where the hair appears most unruly and frizzy.

Begin treatment application where the hair appears most unmanageable, frizzy, and/or coarse. The sub­-sections should be about the 1/16” thick (similar to the width of a credit card). Apply the Smooth Rituals Keratin Treatment using your preferred method choice from above.

Use a fine tooth tail comb to pass through the hair to ensure coverage.

There should be very little to no excess product or residue coming off onto the comb. Continue to comb through the hair until little to no residue remains on the comb as you work through each section.

It is important in either application method to ensure even coverage and to NOT oversaturate the hair as it could hinder optimal results. Part the hair the way the client likes it and comb straight down.

Do not twist or clip the hair up once the product has been applied.

Allow 5 minutes to process at room temperature.