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Do I Need Dimension In My Hair?

10/7/2020

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Hey Boutique Babes, Alyssa here! I wanted to talk about all things dimension today. 

When you show your stylist your inspiration picture, we want to find out what exactly you see in that photo and what you like about that hair. One of the most often asked questions is “𝙙𝙤 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙙𝙞𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙨𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙞𝙣 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙝𝙖𝙞𝙧” but often times our guests aren’t exactly sure what that means.


So what exactly is “dimension?”

When you look up the word dimension, well, you get a definition that describes something along the line of measurements and depth. That's definitely not what we're talking about here but the word “depth” is helpful...

The exact hair definition of Dimension is “A function of the range of tones in your hair. A head of hair that is all one color is said to be “flat” or lacking dimension. Your stylist can add dimension to your hair with highlights or lowlights.”

So now that we know a little more... Let's break it down: Dimension is achieved when there are two or more contrasting colors in the hair. We see dimension a lot when it comes to highlights or basic balayage because we don’t lighten every piece of hair.

Benefits of Dimension:
  • Makes the hair appear fuller
  • Gives the illusion of movement
  • Enhances the lighter tones

Sometimes your hair can feel “flat” and “dull” when there is one solid color at the ends...sound familiar? In order to achieve a dimensional look, I like to combine highlights and lowlights using our dimensional balayage technique.
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How To Know If You Should Get A Balayage or Highlights

9/30/2020

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Hey babes, Emma here! I am one of the blonding/balayage specialists here at Brooke Bauer Boutique + wanted to hop on today to talk about the differences between a balayage + highlights. Let's get right into it...

It can be extremely hard to decide what’s best for your hair or the coloring route you want to take. Trust me, I feel you girl. There are so many different hair trends out now and how do you decide what the best one is for you!? Let's break down two of the biggest hair trends out there now: balayage versus highlights!


What is a balayage?

Balayage is a technique that involves hand painting the hair in sweeping motions with a brush. In other words, hand painting highlights or low lights onto the Hair to achieve a low maintenance, blended look. 

What are highlights?

Highlights create an over blonde look that start at the scalp and proceed through the ends. 

What is the application?

A highlight application usually takes about 2-4 hours depending on hair length and thickness. 
Highlights are created with lightener and foils. Foils are used to help create heat and lift the hair to the desired level of blonde. Highlights are achieved by taking small sections of hair right off the scalp and placing a foil with lightener inside.

A balayage application usually takes around 2-4 hours depending on the length and thickness of the hair. A balayage is created by using lightener and strategic placement to achieve the look that the guest desires. This technique is done by taking medium sections of  hair and hand painting lightener directly onto each section in a “v” like shape. 

How are balayage and highlights customized?

Both of these techniques are 100% customizable! A balayage is going to be the most customizable by far! Most people decide on a balayage for this specific reason. 
At Brooke Bauer Boutique we have several different balayage techniques to fit exactly what you want. From an all over blonde look, to a natural and subtle sun kissed look. A balayage looks amazing on everyone. 

Highlights are slightly less customizable because it creates more of a traditional blonde look. When it comes to highlights, highlights tend to start right up at the root, which one of the main difference between a balayage. 

If you like a highlighted look but don’t want the foils to start right at the root there are customizable options! For example teasy highlights, which creates more of a natural blend at the root while giving the traditional look of highlights. Or a root smudge, which would help  with highlight outgrowth so you won’t see any harsh lines. 

What about grey coverage? 

If you are someone that struggles with covering your grays a balayage would be the best option for you. A balayage allows you to have an all over blonde look while still having a rooted lived in color appearance.  A balayage creates dimension at the root which allows color for grey coverage, where as highlights would just help to blend grays out instead of covering them completely. 

What is the maintenance?

highlights require maintenance every 4 weeks. Because highlights start right up at the route for more of a traditional blonde look, maintenance is normally required every four weeks to blend out the line! 

Maintenance for a balayage is a little bit different than highlights. Depending on what type of balayage is done maintenance can be anywhere from 5 to 8 weeks! 

​XO, Emma
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Transitioning Into Red Shades This Fall

9/23/2020

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Hey Boutique Babes, I’m Jessica a red + fashion shade specialist from #thebbbteam! Going red is a really fun process. Everyone tends to go for red or warmer tones in the fall. Here are some of my tips if you're wanting to go red this Fall like me! 

What if I'm Brunette?

If you’re a brunette such as myself, you would need to lighten your hair first in order for the red to be more vibrant. One of our blonding specialists will do your blonding + after that I can do your color.

What if I'm Blonde?

For someone who has lighter hair, we can color your hair right away unless you want to add more lighter pieces.

How do you do a red application? 

There are so many ways of doing a red application. All over color is more of a solid and one shade look. Dimensional all over color is more of seeing lighter pieces and darker pieces. Peek-a-boo are one or few pieces to a pop of color to add a fashion statement.

What is the maintenance? 

To maintain a red color I recommend coming in every 4-6 weeks + keeping a proper hair care routine at home as well. I love using any of the Kevin Murphy washes (except for maxi.wash it will strip the color out). My two favorites are Autumn.angel and Shimmer.shine. Autumn.Angel is a treatment that has a pink hue to keep your red nice and refreshed + and Shimmer.shine is a lightweight, finishing mist that will add moisture + keeps your red refreshed as well.

You can find me on IG @the.bbb.team_jessica_ if you have any questions about going red! DM me to chat, I'd love to find the perfect red shade for you. 

XO, Jessica 
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How To Take Care Of Your Color At Home

9/16/2020

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So you just got your hair done and you're obsessed, but you're nervous about it fading on you. There are a variety of factors that determine how quickly your color can fade. Some of them include the shade of your hair, the integrity of your hair and the porosity. Here are some of our main tips to help maintain the longevity of your color...

♡ Cold Water

We have so many Boutique Babes asking if cold water really helps the longevity of color, so let us explain. Yes, it does and here is why… Cold water helps to keep your hair cuticle closed vs. hot water which opens your hair cuticle. By keeping your cuticle closed while washing, it is harder for color molecules to get out. 


♡ Products 

As guests, we are told over and over again to only use salon products. The reason being, drug store products contain chemicals and additives that strip the hair. Sulphates are what lower end product lines will use to create bubbles so the customer feels like the product is working well. Sulphates are also made from detergent and not only strip color molecules, but also strip the natural oils your hair needs as well.

At Brooke Bauer Boutique, we use sulphate, paraben + cruelty free products from Kevin Murphy. Click here to shop Kevin Murphy products on our online store! 


♡ Frequent Salon Visits

It may seem obvious that getting your hair colored more often would increase longevity. However, we are referring to hair masques and treatments more than anything. The healthier your hair is, the easier it can hold onto color. Unhealthy hair fades much quicker. 


♡ Protecting It From The Sun

The sun can actually evaporate color molecules right before your eyes. If you arrive at the beach platinum and leave brassy, it isn’t your imagination. Using a UV Protectant on your hair or wearing a hat will keep it safe in the hotter months. 

If your hair struggles to hold color and you have already tried our tips, come into Brooke Bauer Boutique for a consultation with on of our stylists. We would love to help figure out how we can increase the longevity of your color.

XO, Brooke
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Q&A With Extension Specialist Brooke Bauer | Hand Tied Hair Extensions

9/9/2020

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What are hand tied extensions? 
Hand-Tied Extensions are a form of extensions applied by creating a track of beads and string. We then apply multiple hair wefts onto your track and they are sewn on. We believe the are the most comfortable and seamless method currently available. 

What color do I choose?
Gone are the days of having to choose an extension color to match your hair or vice versa. We custom color your wefts to perfectly match your hair. No two heads of color are the same and your extensions will be completely unique to you. 

Will hair extensions damage my hair? 
The rumors are true, many extensions CAN damage your hair. The key is finding a certified professional who is experienced in the method they are offering. When applied correctly, the extensions do not damage your hair. We have guest after guests astonished by they’re natural hair actually becoming healthier from wearing the extensions. This is because a lot of the time they are using less heat on their natural hair.

Can I pull it off?
We believe people ask this question, because they feel extensions will be noticeable and look fake which is not the case. Once these extensions are applied, they become a part of you. If you have had long hair in the past or crave long or full hair, we say go for it. We believe almost everyone can benefit from fullness. 

Are extensions hard to take care of? 
If you are someone who takes care of their natural hair, no. You basically treat them the same. This means regular treatments, salon products, good washing, and wearing it in a braid or a bun before bed. The maintenance is very simple, but we are happy to guide you along the way. When you arrive for your first move up, your stylist will be happy to honestly tell you what you could be doing better at home to take care of your extensions. 

How did hair extensions change your life?
As a stylist, it was extra difficult to find out I had Alopecia. I had bald spots and severe thinning, and I felt like I couldn’t do anything with my hair. The extensions gave me the confidence I needed and I actually saw less thinning after wearing them. I see so many guests who struggle with thinning or post-partum hair loss and you never know how it feels until you’re experiencing it. For me, hair is everything. Hair extensions made it possible for me to wake up feeling excited to start my day. 

What are the benefits? 
Longer hair, fuller hair, pops of color, brightness, confidence…
The list goes on and on. The hair gods gave us extensions to make all hair goals achievable. 

What are your favorite products to use?
Kevin.Murphy Leave.In-Repair, Re.Storeand Young.Again Dry Conditioner
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How do I start the process?
You can fill out our extension form by clicking here. This will give us all the information we need in order to give you a correct price quote.
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How Do I Add Life Into My Hair Without Coloring It?

9/2/2020

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Is your hair dull, dry or damaged? Do you feel like it is lifeless and you wish you had a solution that wasn’t coloring it? Let us give you some options…

♡ Haircuts

So many women don’t realize how much a haircut can do. Changing the shape of your hair can completely change it’s look. You can create fullness and even more shine with a good chop. 

♡ Product

Finding a stylist to help you create a hair regimen is an amazing way to bring life back into your hair. A lot of times, lifelessness is caused from lack of hydration or shine. Product can revive your hair when used correctly. 

♡ Glazes

Some may feel this is still coloring, however glazes do not penetrate into your cuticle, they lay on top. Technically you are not coloring your hair, you are creating a tone shift. Glazes add hydration and shine and are a great way to revive your hair without permanent color. 

♡ Diet

What you put into your body, reflects on the outside. Focus on feeding yourself nutrients that help promote healthy hair, skin and nails. If you struggle with this, vitamins are also a good option. 

♡ Regular Salon Visits

Visiting your salon for regular trims and treatments will create healthy, vibrant hair. 


There are plenty of ways to give your hair life again without coloring. Coloring your hair doesn’t always mean more dryness or damage. At Brooke Bauer Boutique we use a hydrating color line that has natural additives like Aloe Vera, Shea Butter, Rose Hip and Coconut Oil to keep your hair healthy throughout the process. Be sure to do your research on what brand of color your salon is using. 


Whether you’re thinking of coloring your hair or going all natural for a while, we would love to help treat your hair and regain it’s life. Click here to book with us.
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Are You Searching For The Perfect Extension Stylist?

8/26/2020

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We understand extensions are a high end service that requires extensive research to ensure you are making the right choice for your hair. We consistently strive to perform the best extension services in our area. Our specialists are trained and ready to give you the hair of your dreams. Below, we have answered our most frequently asked questions from guests interested in our extension services. Do not hesitate to reach out with any additional questions, we are happy to help!

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♡ What method is used?

We use The Grace Hand Tied Method, which a form of Hand-Tied Extensions. The process is done by creating a track using beads and string, following by sewing wefts of hair onto the track. This technique creates a seamless result with maximum comfort.

♡ Will they damage my hair?

There are many extension damage stories out there, so we hear your concern. We promise all of our Extension Specialists have not only gone through training, but also have done extensive hours of practice to perfect their application. When it comes to extensions, choosing an experienced professional is key. Each application is customized to the individual guest and their hair type to ensure that there will be no pulling or tension.

♡ What is the investment?

It is difficult to quote pricing on hair extensions without doing a full consultation. If you are interested in a price quote, we recommend filling out our extension form. After doing so, one of our extension specialists will be in contact with you within 24 hours. Extension costs vary from $500-$2,500 depending on your hair goals. The $500 starting point would be one row of 14" brunette hair. The more rows, wefts, length and custom coloring you need, the more the investment increases. 

♡ Does my hair need to be a certain length to receive extensions? 

Yes and no. As long as you have enough hair to cover a track you are able to receive extensions. However, if you have extremely short layers we may recommend you choose a shorter length than your original hair goals. It can be difficult to blend short layer without a lot of styling if you would like your look to feel natural.

♡ Are they high maintenance?

As far as everyday styling goes, most of our extension guests feel their hair is lower maintenance. The extensions can hold a style for days which leads to less styling in the mornings. As far as move up reservations go, the extensions need to be adjusted every 6-8 weeks. This is a process where we remove your extensions, wash your hair and reapply them. The time varies per person and how many rows they have, however during your initial consultation we will be transparent with you regarding maintenance costs. 

♡ What if they do not have a color that matches my hair? 

At Brooke Bauer Boutique, we custom color each individual weft so they match perfectly. We will use a blend of shades for a natural look while also performing zone coloring. Zone coloring is applying a different shade to each section of your weft to match seamlessly into your hair. Extensions can also be used to create pops of color you did not have previously.
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Click Here to Start Your Extension Process.
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Is It Too Soon To Talk About Fall Hair Trends?

8/19/2020

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Most definitely not! We are pumped about Fall hair just as much as you! The Summer into Fall transition is one of our favorites out of the whole year. So what is a good change for your style moving into the cooler months? Here are some of the trends we anticipate seeing soon. 

♡ Darker Roots 
If you’re a blonde, the best way to freshen up your look going into Fall is to darken your root. This creates dimension in your hair which is great when your tan starts to fade. Dimension will prevent your skin from becoming washed out. 


♡ Shifting Tones
This is a great way to do a simple transition into Fall hair. For blondes: Create more of a beige blonde, instead of a California blonde. For red heads: Add more violet for depth, instead of copper for brightness. For brunettes: Add ashier tones instead of warm tones for a fresh look. 


♡ Curtain Bangs
As we transition into the Fall months, more Boutique Babes are open to having some hair in their face. We notice bangs become more popular when seasons change. Curtain bangs are a current trend we are loving. 


♡ Hair Extensions 
Who doesn’t want beautiful, long hair for the holidays? Hair Extensions tend to have a boost in the Fall because a lot of guests are hesitant to try them in the Summer heat. We are loving the shaggy look of some of our current extensions and we hope you are too. 


♡ Violets and Reds
Violets and Reds are gorgeous and definitely trendy for the Fall season. The benefit of these colors not fading nearly as quickly as in the Summer is enough to get a lot of our babes to commit to these amazing shades. We definitely feel that there is a red or violet shade for everyone!

The closer Fall gets, the more blogs you will be reading about these awesome trends coming soon. Thinking of switching your look when Fall comes, but not sure what will compliment you the best? Feel free to reach out to a stylist on #thebbbteam on IG @brookebauerboutique. As always, we would love to help you.

​XO, Brooke


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Meet Our New Stylists - Q&A with Natalia & Marcella

8/12/2020

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Hey Boutique Babes! Meet the two newest members of #thebbbteam, Natalia and Marcella! Get to know the both of them a little bit better below + click here to book your next reservation with one of these bada** stylists.  


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Hey Boutique Babes! My name is Natalia. I am one of the blonding and fashion color specialists here on #thebbbteam. I am super excited for this new adventure! xo

♡ Why did you decide to become a hair stylist? 

I love empowering women and making them feel beautiful. 


♡ What inspires you the most?

I absolutely love seeing my clients smile after they get their hair done and seeing how confident I can make them. 


♡ What is your holy grail hair product you can’t go a day without?

I love the Kevin Murphy fresh.hair dry shampoo! 


♡ What is your favorite hair style?  

Definitely beach waves. 


♡  What is the best hair trend at the moment in your opinion?  

A ton of my guests have been loving the icy platinum blonde trend lately. 


♡ Explain what an experience in your chair is like for your guests. 

I definitely aim to go beyond the service itself and have a true connection with all of my guests. I also alway want your time in my chair to an upbeat/happy vibe! 
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♡ What is your ultimate goal as a hair stylist?

I want my clients to have confidence at all times even at home! I would love to teach my clients how to achieve specific hairstyles/looks so they can feel their best 100% of the time. 


 ♡ Where can everyone find you? Pimp yourself out! 
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You can find me on IG @the.bbb.team_natalia!
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Hey babes! I am Marcella. I am currently one of the balayage specialists here on #thebbbteam, but am super eager to transition into hand-tied hair extensions as well soon! 
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♡ Why did you decide to become a hair stylist? 

I love making women feel beautiful on the inside and out. 


♡ What inspires you the most?

I am very goal-oriented and want to achieve my career goals!


♡ What is your holy grail hair product you can’t go a day without?

I cannot live without the Kevin Murphy fresh.hair dry shampoo because I try not to wash my hair everyday and this product is amazing for training your hair on your in-between days!  


♡ What is your favorite hair style?  

I love a good loose beach wave look! 


♡  What is the best hair trend at the moment in your opinion?  

A good balayage is one of my favorites! 


♡ Explain what an experience in your chair is like for your guests. 

I always aim to make my guests feel confident and comfortable. 


♡ What is your ultimate goal as a hair stylist? 

My ultimate goal as a hair stylist is to keep expanding on my skills and knowledge, and always make my guests feel good about themselves.


♡ Where can everyone find you? Pimp yourself out! 


You can find me on Instagram @the.bbb.team_marcella


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Simple Things We Do That Damage Our Hair

8/5/2020

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♡ Shampoo Super Fast 

I can’t even lie to you, I am guilty. My hair gets super sweaty from my workout and I want to scrub shampoo all over it until I feel clean. We need to STOP doing this. We need to gently scrub, not go crazy, which creates matting and knots. It is also important to remember that shampoo is for our scalp, not our ends. When rinsing your shampoo, it will fall through your ends and cleanse them naturally. 

♡ Treat Wet Hair Like Dry Hair 

When your hair is wet, the elasticity is different and more fragile. Your hair should never be put into a ponytail while wet because the hair will stretch as it dries causing breakage. This is why it is also important to dry your hair before bed. Rubbing fragile hair against your pillow while sleeping can cause damage. 

♡ Avoid Haircuts

Have you heard that haircuts make your hair grow? They won’t make your hair grow more from your scalp, but they do decrease breakage which then increases your overall length. If you avoid getting a haircut, you risk your split ends moving higher and higher. The key is to find a stylist who can do what I like to call a dusting. A dusting is when we remove the minimum amount of length, usually under a quarter of inch, but just enough to keep your hair growing healthy.


♡ Not Having A Haircare Regimen 

I hear all of my guests talk about their morning and night skincare routines, but then don’t follow a haircare routine. Choosing a regimen for your hair is just as important as your skin! This should consist of a wash and rinse that fits your hair type, repairing lotions, heat protectants and more. Talk to your stylist about creating a regimen you can follow to achieve your hair goals, or DM us on Instagram @brookebauerboutique & we will help build a haircare regime for you. 


♡ Use Cotton Pillowcases 

Cotton pillowcases can pull on your hair and cause matting and breakage. We recommend a silk pillowcase that your hair can comfortably slide on throughout the night. Your hair is also the most safe in a braid. Wearing your hair down isn’t recommended. 


♡ Tight Hair Styles 

Tight ponytails and buns are super adorable and we are all for the trend. However, we encourage you to break up your tight bun days and give your hair a rest in-between. Also, aim to find hair accessories that are gentle on your hair and keep it safe. 


What are some other simple things you do that cause BIG TIME damage? We would love to hear. Once damage is created, it is difficult to reverse it. It is important to focus on keeping your hair safe and sound. 


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    Hey Boutique Babes! Welcome to the Brooke Bauer Boutique blog. We will cover everything from hairstyles and skincare to popular hair trends & lots more! XO, Brooke

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(708) 580 1430
7751 W 159th Street
​Tinley Park, IL 60477

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