"Welcome to the Esterra Spa & Salon blog. Have a question for me? Send an email and I'll reply with a post as soon as possible.

Esterra Spa & Salon Blog

Friday, April 17, 2009

Too yellow

Dear Krissy,

I recently went to my regular hair stylist to get my roots done I have blonde hair but this time the end result looks really yellow and I do not like it. I am wondering if I called to have it fixed if another process so soon would damage my hair or would doing it again be ok?

Vicki, Fort Myers

Dear Vicki,
I think they would just put a toner all over your hair that would tame the yellow a bit so my guess is that it would be just fine. Please always remember to discuss this with your hair dresser so they know your concerns regarding the over all health of your hair.

Labels: ,

posted by Esterra Spa and Salon @ 4:23 PM  0 Comments Links to this post

Help, Psoriasis!

Dear Krissy,
I have bad psoriasis on my scalp. It flakes so much that you can see it on my shoulders just like in the commercials. What can I do to heal this up?

Flaky, Fort Myers

I'm sorry to hear that! I am a big fan of essential oils and so the first thing I think of when I hear about a problem like this is oil treatments for the scalp. You will want to use a carrior oil such as grapeseed oil and then add three drops of each of the following essential oils to it Bergamont, Cedarwood and Geranium oil. Take this essential oil cocktail and massage it into the scalp and leave it on for at least 20 minutes, continue this daily until you see an improvement. This will help with moisturizing and healing the area. Some things you should stay away from that make psoriasis flare up is too much sun and alcohol.

Labels: ,

posted by Esterra Spa and Salon @ 4:22 PM  0 Comments Links to this post

Tuesday, January 6, 2009

Help - Pink Hair!

Dear Krissy,
Help, my hair is turning pink! I have naturally brown hair and decided to dye it fire engine red with blonde streaks. Now the streaks are turning pink, what should I do?

Michele, Cape Coral


Hi Michelle,
It sounds like the red streaks are bleeding into your blonde streaks. Your hair stylist should be able to correct this. In the future, you could try separating the streaks when washing your hair. An easy way to do this is to apply a very thick conditioner to the blonde hair which will act as a barrier and protect it from the red dye.
Good luck!

Labels: , , ,

posted by Esterra Spa and Salon @ 2:17 PM  Links to this post

Tuesday, December 30, 2008

New Nails

Dear Krissy,
I have been thinking about getting artificial nails. I know that people either get gel or acrylic nails, what is the difference?
Nikki, Fort Myers

Hi Nikki,
Gel is a bit more gentle to the natural nail than acrylic. My opinion is that the gel nail also looks more natural than acrylic at times. Although, if you have a certain type of nail art in mind a lot of the new techniques work better with one or the other.

Labels: , ,

posted by Esterra Spa and Salon @ 12:38 PM  Links to this post

Thursday, November 13, 2008

Ask Me!

If you would like beauty advice or have any questions please email me using the form on our contact page.

esterraspa.com/contact

I will reply with a post as soon as possible.

Can't wait to hear from you!

Labels: , , , , ,

posted by Esterra Spa and Salon @ 8:35 AM  Links to this post

Wednesday, November 12, 2008

Half Price Hair Extensions!!!!!!

The Esterra Spa & Salon is offering half price hair extensions to the first 10 people that contact us about this special.

Hurry, this offer will expire December 1, 2008!

Labels: , , , ,

posted by Esterra Spa and Salon @ 2:26 PM  0 Comments Links to this post

Wednesday, October 22, 2008

Holiday Hair

Dear Krissy,
I am thinking of dying my hair with streaks of bright red for the holiday season. I don't want it forever, though, so what do you suggest?

Cadence, Fort Myers

A great option, especially for the holidays, is trying hair extensions. They're temporary, give you the added benefit of providing extra volume to your hair, and in your case, you can just target certain sections where you'd like to highlight some red in your hair. That way, if you tire of them, we can take them out in a jiffy with no damage to your own hair!

Labels: , , ,

posted by Esterra Spa and Salon @ 1:30 PM  0 Comments Links to this post

Funky Fungus

Dear Krissy,
I think I have a fungus on my big toenail. I really don't want to get a pedicure right now because I'm embarrassed and I don't want to burden a nail technician with the problem. Is there something I can use to clear up the situation? Please help me because I miss my regular pedicures and can't wait to go back!!

Helen, Fort Myers

A great home remedy is Tea Tree essential oil, as it is a natural antiseptic. I have also heard that soaking your toes in Listerine and or putting Vick's vapor rub on a fungus-infected toenail also helps. Please keep in mind that there are also over-the-counter products that you can buy to help the problem. Of course, if you do not see results within a reasonable timeframe, please seek the advice of a physician promptly.

Labels: ,

posted by Esterra Spa and Salon @ 1:29 PM  0 Comments Links to this post

Looking to Stray

Dear Krissy,
I have been getting my hair done at the same salon for a while and I am not happy with my color lately. Should I go back and see a new stylist or try a new salon altogether?

Hannah, Fort Myers Beach


Well, I am a firm believer of sticking with the same salon. You should always give them another opportunity because I am sure that they will want to do their best to retain you as a customer. They may even offer you an incentive to stay. Go ahead and ask for a new stylist. Sometimes just by seeing something in a new perspective, you may get just what you were looking for...and better!!

Labels: , , , ,

posted by Esterra Spa and Salon @ 1:28 PM  0 Comments Links to this post

Going Gray Before My Time

Dear Krissy,
I am a 27-year-old "low maintenance" mother of two and I am starting to notice a few gray hairs. Whenever I see a new one, I try to pluck it out but they seem to be popping up more often. I have never dyed my hair because I did not want to get into a routine that might start costing too much money. I'm the type of person that only goes to the salon just a couple of times a year for a trim. What could I do to start hiding my premature gray...short of running away from home?

Haley, Fort Myers

I'm sorry to say that Mother Nature has not given us too many options. She seems to have a wicked sense of humor that way! Getting your hair dyed is about the only option I know of that will successfully cover up your gray for good. Some home remedies might be a baseball cap, scarf or wig (ha, ha -- just kidding!) Truthfully though, you might be pleasantly surprised at the cost of coloring your hair. If you stick with just one color, the cost can be very reasonable and you may even like the new look it gives you.

Labels: , , ,

posted by Esterra Spa and Salon @ 1:26 PM  0 Comments Links to this post

Delicate Dandruff Dilemma

Dear Krissy,
I have been having problems with dandruff and I'm not sure how to get rid of it. It is definitely becoming an uncomfortable situation. Do you have any suggestions?

Embarrassed, Fort Myers

There are many shampoos on the market that should help with your problem. By consulting with a hair stylist, they can recommend stronger treatments that can be purchased in a salon. If your problem is a severe dry scalp, a great home remedy might be olive oil. Just apply it to your hair, massage into your scalp, and leave in for 20 minutes before rinsing.

Labels: ,

posted by Esterra Spa and Salon @ 1:25 PM  0 Comments Links to this post

Just a Q on a New Doo

Dear Krissy,
I have seen coupons for your spa in many businesses on the Beach and I was wondering what is included in a Full Hair Session?

Need a New Doo, Fort Myers Beach

Our Full Hair Service includes a personal consultation, shampoo with head massage, heated neck wrap, cut, blow dry and style. With our "half off" coupon, it's definitely a wonderful deal that fits everyone's budget!

Labels: ,

posted by Esterra Spa and Salon @ 1:24 PM  0 Comments Links to this post

Didn't Know Paraffin Could Be Different!

Dear Krissy,
I have gone to physical therapy before and had paraffin treatments, but they did not moisturize my skin. What is the difference between that paraffin and the paraffin treatment that you do?

Katherine, Fort Myers

If you are looking for moisturizing, then a spa paraffin treatment is the way to go! You will still get the benefit of a deep heat treatment, but you will also enjoy added moisturizing because of the essential oils, jojoba oil and sweet almond oil that are added to the parring.

Labels: , , ,

posted by Esterra Spa and Salon @ 1:21 PM  0 Comments Links to this post

Match My Color

Dear Krissy,
I just arrived here for the winter (this is my first "season" in the area) and I need a hairdresser. I have my color formula and I need someone to copy and apply it. Can any hair stylist do this?

Betsy, Fort Myers Beach

Yes, everyone can work with your formula. Sometimes it is easier if you find someone who also uses the exact color line your hair stylist was using at home, but all stylists can work with your formula and make it work from whatever color line they are currently using. We actually have many clients that come in our salon with their formulas and sometimes we will even order their exact color line for them to make sure that they feel exceptionally comfortable with the transition.

Labels: , , ,

posted by Esterra Spa and Salon @ 1:20 PM  0 Comments Links to this post

How Can I Get My Nails Back in Shape?

Dear Krissy,
I decided to get acrylic nails for my daughter's wedding and I liked them so much that I kept them on for three months. I just recently had them taken off but now my nails are a big mess. What should I do?

Karen, Fort Myers Beach

Don't fret just yet! A good manicure is a great way to start your nails back on the road to recovery. It is important to smooth out your nails very gently and file them properly to take off any jagged edges. I would then recommend a clear coat of polish for strengthening because your nails are probably very thin due to the acrylic damage and will need the help to start growing out. After this, it is just a waiting game. Your nails, unfortunately, have been damaged, but don't worry -- they'll grow out in time and your new nails will be beautiful, healthy and strong!!

Labels: ,

posted by Esterra Spa and Salon @ 1:15 PM  0 Comments Links to this post

Tricks of the Trade

Dear Krissy,
My polish never stays on my fingernails when I do them myself. What is the trick to keeping polish on?

June, Fort Myers

Tricks of the Trade: We always use a base coat, then two coats of your favorite color, followed by a top coat quick dry. The base coat that I use is by Orly and it is called "Bonder." The quick dry helps because women are always "on the go" and this helps your nails set quicker. Another tip? Any time you have four coats on your fingernails, you'll find that they are much stronger, so they'll grow better and your nails will look great in no time!

Labels: , ,

posted by Esterra Spa and Salon @ 1:13 PM  0 Comments Links to this post

Tuesday, October 21, 2008

Bikini Wax

Dear Krissy,
After reading your column last week, I am considering getting a bikini wax. How long should my hair be in order to get it waxed? Will it hurt a lot?

No Pain, Fort Myers Beach

Well yes, it will smart a bit, but as I said in last week's column, no pain, no gain. As for the length, it should be at least a half an inch long. If it's much longer than that, they may have to trim it first. In the end it is all worth it because it does last sooo much longer than shaving, so you can spend more time at the beach!

Labels: ,

posted by Esterra Spa and Salon @ 4:02 PM  0 Comments Links to this post

I Don't Want Green Hair!

Dear Krissy,
HELP!! My hair turned green after being in the pool. What should I do?

Sara, Sanibel

Dear Sara,
Always get your hair wet before jumping in the pool and be sure to shampoo with a clarifying shampoo (which we sell in our salon) shortly after getting out of the pool. For a great "at home" remedy, add some baking soda to your shampoo. If that doesn't work, it's best to see a professional hairdresser to get the green removed. Good luck!

Labels: , ,

posted by Esterra Spa and Salon @ 4:00 PM  0 Comments Links to this post

Fading Out

Dear Krissy,
I have platinum blond hair. Every four weeks, I get it colored a light brown, auburn color. By the time I go back for my next visit, all the color is gone and I am back to platinum. Why is this happening? I really want the brown color all month long.

Joanne, Bokeelia

There could be many reasons you are having trouble with keeping your color, but without knowing the exact color procedure you've been using, I can't say for sure. I can suggest some recommendations, however. Because platinum hair (whether it is gray or blond) is difficult to color, there are certain colors we always recommend that a filler be done by the stylist with the color so that the color holds longer. You may also find that using a maintenance color shampoo at home will be helpful as it will add color to your hair every time you shampoo. Of course, you can also wear a hat when outside for long periods of time so the sun does not affect your color (plus it helps to protect your face from sun damage)!

Labels: , ,

posted by Esterra Spa and Salon @ 3:50 PM  0 Comments Links to this post

Bikini Bumps

Dear Krissy,
I spend a lot of time in my bathing suit, but every time that I shave my bikini area, I break out in bumps. It looks horrible! What should I do?

Bikini Bumps, Fort Myers Beach

Ouch! Sounds like a new shaving technique would definitely be beneficial! Try this: every time you shave your bikini area, go 2 strokes down, 2 strokes up, 2 strokes left, and then 2 strokes right. For those of you that are ready to throw away your razors and try something new, how about a bikini wax? It lasts a lot longer than shaving and the hair only needs to be about a half an inch to be waxed. Remember: No pain - No gain!

Labels: ,

posted by Esterra Spa and Salon @ 3:45 PM  0 Comments Links to this post

Up or Down?

Dear Krissy,
I've always been told that I should apply my face make-up in an upward motion to prevent loosening of the skin that can create wrinkles and sagging years from now. However, a short time ago, I saw a make-up and style "expert" on a TV show direct those wearing facial make-up to apply it in a downward motion, to prevent that "peach fuzz" facial hair from standing up. I'm so confused now. Which manner do you suggest?

Thanks!
Melissa, Fort Myers Beach

That is a great question! There seem to be two rules of thought on this and both answers are correct. As with all skin care questions, the answers tend to be individualized. For the majority of women applying make-up, I would definitely recommend sticking with an upward motion. This prevents breaking down elasticity which does play a part in premature aging. For women who seem to have more "peach fuzz" growth than normal, however, I would recommend the downward application motion. This will allow your skin to appear smoother without the interference of any facial hair that could make your make-up appear blotchy in color and rough in appearance.

Labels: ,

posted by Esterra Spa and Salon @ 3:42 PM  0 Comments Links to this post

Yikes! Stay Away from My Heel With That!

Dear Krissy,
I have really dry and thick heels. I have been to places where they have tried to use some type of foot blade to take the dead skin off. Is this safe or should they be doing something different to fix my problem?

Keri, Cape Coral

Safety is the most important part of this question. Any time a nail technician is using an instrument that could cut you, your safety is at risk. Even a small cut could lead to infection or other severe problems. There are many ways to smooth out thick and dry heels just by exfoliating with product and a good foot file. We also like to use a nice hot paraffin wax treatment at the end of your service to soften any additional dryness.

Labels: , ,

posted by Esterra Spa and Salon @ 3:37 PM  0 Comments Links to this post

Straightening Out the Situation

Dear Krissy,
My teenage daughter decided to have a professional straightening treatment done to her hair. She was told that it would make her hair straight enough that she would not need to use a flat iron on it. After the treatment she still has wave in her hair and we are unhappy with the results, especially because she paid several hundred dollars for the treatment. We have decided that we do not want it redone because we are worried that an additional treatment may further damage her hair. I was thinking about just requesting a refund. As a business owner in this line of work, what would you offer the client and what do you think is fair?

Wavy Hair, Fort Myers Beach

This is a touchy situation, as I do not know how they are marketing this straightening procedure. If they truly did say that your results would be straight hair without the use of a straightening iron and it is still wavy, then I would say you did not get what you paid for. The wonderful thing is by telling the salon that you are not happy with your treatment, it gives them the opportunity to correct the problem. I think they should understand your concern with over-processing your daughter's hair, so the only other option is to refund your money. If you are a regular customer at this salon, they may even offer you a gift certificate for the dollar amount you spent to use in the future. As the saying goes (as does my personal belief), "The customer is always right!" While we are human and sometimes we all make mistakes, and sometimes the products we use for certain procedures do not work the same on every person, it is the way that we handle the problem that makes the difference! I believe that every customer should leave my spa and salon with a smile on their face and feeling extremely satisfied with their treatment, at whatever cost to the business. A happy customer is a returning customer, and that is what my business is built on!

Labels: , ,

posted by Esterra Spa and Salon @ 3:31 PM  0 Comments Links to this post

Saturday, October 11, 2008

Pregnancy and Hair Dye?

Dear Krissy,
I am pregnant with my first child. I'm used to getting my hair colored, but I've heard that you can't get your hair colored while you are pregnant because it can be bad for the baby. What do you think?

Roots, Fort Myers Beach

Dear Roots,
Good news! There are so many new products on the market that now make coloring your hair much safer while you are pregnant. I would suggest that you schedule a consultation with your hair stylist to see if your salon is using the new "safer" products and to see what additional advice she may have to get you through your pregnancy. Your pregnancy should be a beautiful time for you, so your stylist is always there to help make sure you look and feel your best!

Labels: , , ,

posted by Esterra Spa and Salon @ 10:02 PM  0 Comments Links to this post

When I Say "Just a Trim," I Mean "Just a Trim"!

Dear Krissy,
I have very long hair and occasionally like to have it trimmed. I have gone to hair stylists before and they typically cut too much off. Now, I'm nervous to have anyone touch my hair.

What is a good way to communicate with a hair stylist to make sure that I get what "I" want, and not what the hair stylist wants?

Ruth, Fort Myers

Dear Ruth,
Communication is the key word in your question. Any time you go in for a service, be specific about what you want upfront. Lay down your "ground rules" with very clear and very concise directions -- "this is what I want..." (only an inch off, etc.) -- and ask the hair stylist before she starts if she understands your request. Ask her to repeat it to you to make sure that you are both on the same page. Remember not to let one bad experience scare you off, though, because your next experience may become just the one that you're looking for!

Labels:

posted by Esterra Spa and Salon @ 10:01 PM  0 Comments Links to this post

Switching Stylists

Dear Krissy,
I have been going to a salon that I love, but my hair stylist and I have hit a crossroads. I want to continue going to the salon, but I do want to change who I see for my next visit. Can I do that or is will it create problems?

What to Do, Fort Myers

Absolutely, by all means, please talk to them about switching hair stylists! Usually if you, as "the client," are feeling uncomfortable about things, chances are that your hair stylist is feeling your discomfort also. A good salon should try to continue to please you by making your transition as smooth as possible, so you should not have to worry about feeling uncomfortable around your old stylist. We are all professionals and know that these types of things happen from time to time. Our ultimate goal is always to make the client happy and comfortable with her decision!

Labels: ,

posted by Esterra Spa and Salon @ 10:00 PM  0 Comments Links to this post

Finding the Perfect Fit

Dear Krissy,
I just moved to the area and I am looking for a new "everything"! I admit that I'm a little high maintenance. I need a hair stylist, nail technician and a GREAT massage therapist. How do you think I should go about finding the perfect fit for my needs?

Patti, New York

Hi Patti,
Welcome to Fort Myers Beach! Finding a perfect fit is sometimes a hard thing to do and it may take a little time. Trial and error is something you probably want to avoid, especially when it comes to a hair stylist, so here are some of my suggestions to make your transition as painless as possible. Everyone loves a flattering remark, so if you see someone in a store or around town and if you love the way their hair looks, go ahead and compliment them. Then ask where they had it done and by whom. To find a new nail tech, head to the spa! Not only do spa employees tend to have more experience, but they'll spoil you with all of the extra frills that will make your experience super special. For a massage therapist, you'll definitely want to do your homework. Give careful consideration to the type of massage you're used to, and specifically request that type of massage, along with any other special requirements, when you make your first round of visits with massage therapists. It's important to match up with therapists who are most qualified to fit your needs, and you may end up trying several different massage therapists until you find the one that suits you best. The Esterra Spa & Salon does offer all of these services and we would be happy to consult with you when you are ready!

Labels: ,

posted by Esterra Spa and Salon @ 9:57 PM  0 Comments Links to this post

Welcome!

Welcome to our blog!

We're proud to be celebrating our one-year anniversary at the Esterra Spa & Salon. It's been a WONDERFUL year! We've really enjoyed becoming part of the Fort Myers Beach community.

As we head into the end of 2008, the spa is happy to debut our new website, which incorporates our updated spa menu as well as a new blog feature that we hope will keep everyone up to date on spa news. We'll also use it to share Krissy's "Spa-cifically Speaking" column that runs in the Fort Myers Beach Observer. Of course, feel free to leave comments and email us anytime with questions.

We're looking forward to an exciting and busy 2009 season! Have a great day!

Labels: , , , , , ,

posted by Esterra Spa and Salon @ 6:29 PM  0 Comments Links to this post