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Sustainability in hairdressing is an important part of reducing climate change. At BOTTEGA, we have taken it upon ourselves to ensure that our salon is as environmentally friendly as possible. Haircare is an incredibly resource-intensive industry. Products, water consumption, and power are all heavily utilized in the haircare and beauty industry. It is so important to reflect on the impact our beauty routines have on the environment. By doing so, we can help combat climate change and other subsequent environmental issues. In this article, we will be discussing the importance of sustainability in a hair salon. As well as, how you can alter your beauty routine to create a smaller carbon footprint. Continue reading below to learn more!

Why Sustainability Matters in a West Kelowna Salon?

Hairstylists are in a unique position to encourage others to practice sustainability. The ways they interact with clients can help them see a greener alternative. From product consumption to washing habits, there’s always room for improvement. People are more likely to listen to what their hairdresser has to say, especially when it comes to beauty products. This makes it easy for them to advise people to use less water by washing their hair only a few times per week. And, instead of washing, they can tell people about the benefits of using dry shampoo or a leave-in conditioner. Thus, drastically reducing the amount of energy and hot water consumed in households.

Hot water makes up the majority of household emissions. The longer hot water is running and the hotter it is, the more energy is being consumed. This translates to a higher carbon footprint and more money. Therefore, people who take shorter showers, with a lower temperature are more likely to have a smaller carbon footprint. And, save more money!

It is also important for salons to be sustainable because they can help reduce waste. Hair clippings, product bottles, dye packaging, and all other waste have to go somewhere. However, with the right methods, salons can reduce waste and save excess products. At Bottega, we work with GreenCircle Salons to ensure that all our salon waste is either recycled or repurposed. They also provide us with special tools to make sure no product or dye goes to waste! Working with GreenCircle Salons has enabled us to become carbon neutral. 

As a West Kelowna salon, it is so important to become sustainable. Having a green salon will help the business, the clients, and the planet! Educating each other on how to practice carbon-neutral habits is essential.

How You Can Make Your Beauty Routine More Sustainable!

For those looking to make a greener change in their beauty routine, we have a few sustainability tips. There are so many ways that you can lessen your impact on the environment. For instance, if you wash your hair 7-days a week, try cutting back to 3-days per week. This will help lessen your water consumption and product use. Instead, you can use a sustainable dry shampoo or leave-in conditioner. 

Secondly, finding products that are sustainably made and have minimal packaging is so beneficial. Beauty items with long shelf lives and refillable options are much better for the environment. Ditch your single-use items and find long-lasting alternatives to minimize waste and cost. However, if you still want to use single-use products, make sure that the ingredients are natural and the packaging is either compostable or reusable. Many companies are changing their packaging to be sustainable, so it shouldn’t be too hard to make the switch!

Another way that you can make your beauty routine green, is by supporting the right brands. Finding brands that actively promote and practice sustainable habits. Purchasing products from places like BOTTEGA that are involved in recycling programs or local companies are two examples of choosing a more sustainable brand. 

Contact Your West Kelowna Salon For More Sustainable Beauty Tips!

Making your beauty routine more sustainable is a key way that you can help lessen your impact on the world. Climate change is a pressing issue that can be helped with a few small lifestyle changes. Start making a difference now with a greener beauty routine! Contact us today for more information on the importance of sustainability in a salon. Feel free to reach out with any questions you may have about hair or our salon! Be sure to check out our social media for the latest updates and events! We look forward to seeing you at our West Kelowna salon soon! 

2022 has brought all sorts of new and old hairstyles into focus. Deciding which cut to go for can be a scary decision. However, changing up your look might be just what you need to up your hair game. There are so many trending hairstyles, that it is hard to keep track. We’ve done our due diligence to bring to you a comprehensive list of fashion-forward hairstyles that are currently making waves 🙂

Check out the list below to find inspiration for your next cut!

1. Short Hair and Blunt Cuts

Chopping off a few inches on your hair is a popular trend right now. Many women are opting for bobs, blunt cuts, pixie cuts – you name it. Short wavy bobs are certainly in right now. A wavy bob is a perfect mix of masculine and feminine. By adding waves to your bob, you can achieve a chic slept-in look that is all the rage right now! 

Blunt cuts are also a popular choice as of late. A blunt cut is great for those who struggle with thin hair. If you want to chop your hair short, but have thin hair, a blunt cut is a great way to go. Add some androgyny to your look whilst also framing your face and accentuating your features by getting a blunt cut. To make this look a little more feminine, add some accessories or a light wave. 

Another style that many people are rocking these days, is a short and straight blunt bob. This style is timeless and perfect for anyone with naturally straight hair. In addition, it also looks incredibly flattering and gives your look a bit of attitude. Part your hair down the middle, throw on a bold lipstick, and channel your inner rockstar.

Pixie cuts are a scary commitment for those with long or thick hair. However, when done right, short hair like a pixie cut can look amazing. The key to achieving the perfect pixie cut is lots and lots of layers and texture. If you have thick hair, layers and texture will be necessary in order to prevent that awkward bowl look. 

Lobs, Parts, and Asymmetry Can Be Achieved at Your West Kelowna Salon!

If short hair is too much of a commitment to make, we have a bunch of other styles for you to try out. For instance, a lob, vintage curls, updos, bangs, and various asymmetrical styles! Choosing one of these is a great way to switch up your look without sacrificing the bulk of your length. 

Bangs are a great way to breathe some life into your old look. As long as they are done right, bangs can provide a new edge to your style. Moreover, they are super easy to style and maintain. You can choose from any number of bangs at your local West Kelowna salon. For example, side, front, choppy, blunt, curtain, and sweeping. Add bangs to your hairstyle for a completely revamped look. 

Lobs are the perfect in-between for those who want shorter hair but don’t want to say goodbye to the versatility of long hair. People who have a lob still have the ability to create complex updos and high ponytails. However, they can still benefit from the fast and easy styling that short hair provides. Test out a lob at your West Kelowna salon today!

If all your looking for is a trim, it may be better to try out different styling options as opposed to hair cuts. One of the chicest trending hairstyles is vintage waves. Showcase your inner movie star with a vintage wave and an elegant outfit. Another trending style is the classic half up half down. Toss the top portion of your hair into a high bun or ponytail for a playful look. 

There are so many styles for you to try out when you visit your West Kelowna salon!

Contact Your West Kelowna Salon Today!

Getting a trendy new haircut is exciting, however, it is always best to stick to styles that compliment your hair type. At your West Kelowna salon, we offer expert styling and advice. If you’re looking for more trending hairstyles and hairstyling tips, be sure to check out our blog again next month! Our hairstylists have extensive experience dealing with all sorts of hair types and textures. If you are looking at getting a haircut or styling, book an appointment with us today. We would be happy to help you get your dream haircut! For more information on the trendiest styles contact us now. We look forward to seeing you in the salon soon!

For many, heat tools are an essential part of creating salon-quality hairstyles. However, as we’ve noted in a few of our articles, using heat tools can seriously damage those luscious locks. Especially, if you forget your heat protectant! Blow dryers, flat irons, and curling wands, all pose the risk of ruining your hair. Sadly, once your hair has been damaged by heat, the only way to mend it is to cut it off. Despite the risks involved, hair stylists in West Kelowna know how important using heat tools can be in a person’s morning routine. This is why our team at Bottega Salon wanted to share with you some of the best heatless hair tools. Discover your new favourite styling tool in the article below, so you can ditch that blow dryer once and for all! 

A Quick Recap on Heat Damage:

In case you missed the FAQ we posted on our blog, we wanted to give a quick recap on heat damage. Heat tools are great when you want to transform the uneven creases in your hair into Instagram-worthy styles. Although every time you reach for the heat tools, you risk the health of your hair. Any instance where your hair comes into contact with heat, small holes are formed in the protective layer. Over time, this can cause breakage, frizziness, split ends and permanent damage. It should be noted that temperatures above 450 degrees can cause permanent damage. But, like most things in life, it’s all about moderation. If you’re grabbing the curling iron every morning, your hair will likely be burnt and damaged. Instead, using heat tools sparingly and on a low setting will ensure healthy, happy, hair. 

But, what if you want big, bouncy curls every day of the week (without the help of your trusty curling wand or blow-dryer)?

Best Heatless Hair Styling Tools From Hairstylists in West Kelowna!

The answer is simple. You can still achieve that voluminous hair you adore with heatless hair tools! Heatless hair styling has been around forever. And, the products have only gotten better and easier to use since their invention. Check out the list below to discover your new favourite styling tool.

1. Flexi Rods

Flexi rods are great if you want to create defined ringlets. They bend into almost any shape and remain secured in your hair without the help of clips or pins. Moreover, they can be used on a variety of different types of hair. Flexi rods are especially great for creating definition in those with hair that is already curly in texture. In order to use these versatile rods, simply section your hair into 1-2 inch pieces and roll vertically from end to root. Make sure your hair is slightly damp when doing so. Once the hair is dry, take out the rods and brush through your hair with your fingers. 

2. Foam Rollers and Pillow Soft Rollers

Leaving your hair to set overnight is one of the best ways to achieve voluminous hair and/or curls. Not only this, but it also saves you time in the morning. Instead of waking up extra early with messy slept-on hair, enjoy a longer sleep and runway-ready hair. 

Foam rollers are a seriously great addition to your heatless hair styling tool kit. Foam rollers are soft and spongy in texture, allowing you to sleep comfortably with them in. Make sure to keep the roller loose around your hairline to prevent pulling. Rollers are meant to be used on dry hair and should be rolled in different directions if a natural look is desired. When you are ready to take them out, unroll and use a large paddle brush to amp up the volume and texture. 

If foam rollers aren’t your jam, pillow-soft rollers do just the trick. Pillow-soft rollers are one of the best overnight hairstyling tools. The supreme comfort and versatility make for perfect, crimp-free curls. Additionally, they can be used to create smooth waves, straight-to-curly styles, and add volume.

3. Velcro Hair Rollers

Velcro hair rollers are a great alternative to heat tools. They are easy to use, affordable, and work for almost all hair types and textures. Using velcro hair rollers allows you to achieve gorgeous curls and volume in a matter of minutes. Different sizes can be used to create different sizes of curls and volume. 

In order to most effectively use velcro rollers, you’ll need a few extra products. For instance, some hairspray, styling cream, and some clips to hold it all in place. Starting with slightly damp hair, you’ll want to apply some styling cream and let it air dry. While the hair is still damp, you can start to roll your hair. Grab a section of hair as you would with a curling iron and spray it with hairspray. Then keep the hair pulled taught and inwards from the ends to the roots. Try and keep the hair from falling off the sides, as this creates tangles. After your hair is secured and rolled, leave it to set for 15-20 minutes. Once the time is up, unclip and pull out the rollers (avoid unrolling them) to reveal your perfectly styled hair. 

Contact Bottega Hair Stylists in West Kelowna Now!

If you’re looking for more hair tips and tricks, be sure to check out our blog again next month! Our hairstylists have extensive experience dealing with all sorts of hair types and textures. If you are interested in getting a haircut or styling, book an appointment with us today. We would be happy to help you achieve your dream hair! For more information on styling without heat, tools contact us now. We look forward to seeing you in the salon soon!

Are you looking for a sustainable hair salon in Kelowna? Well, West Kelowna’s BOTTEGA Salon has been working to ensure that our salon does its part in protecting the environment! Recently, the Greater Westside Board of Trade announced that BOTTEGA Salon was a nominee for the Environmental Sustainability Award. BOTTEGA Salon is honoured to be a finalist for this awesome award! It shows our commitment to Mother Nature and advocates for sustainability among other businesses in the Okanagan.

Learn more about how BOTTEGA is doing its part in making the world a cleaner place!

BOTTEGA On Going Green and Being an Example for A Sustainable Hair Salon in Kelowna

Going green is something that BOTTEGA prides itself on. As the world becomes more polluted, we began incorporating greener ways of operating. BOTTEGA hopes that other local companies will match our efforts in finding new ways to minimize their businesses’ environmental footprint. 

We began our green efforts 6 months ago when we were certified as a Green Circle Salon! Green Circle Salons is a company that works with various beauty salons and spas to minimize salon waste. The excess hair colour, bottles, products, and other salon-related items don’t go to the landfill. We separate products and waste into bags for recycling. The bags are then shipped to Green Circle Salons to be processed and repurposed. 

BOTTEGA Salon only sent 5 boxes of waste back to Green Circle Salons! That works out to less than 1 box per month! The total pounds of waste over the duration of being with GCS was a minuscule 116lbs.

Moreover, we had no excess colour diverted.

This is an astonishing statistic to achieve! In fact, even the GCS rep was shocked!

How did we do it?

In order to reduce the excess colour diverted to 0, we used a weighing system called Vish. Vish ensures that every bit of colour used is weighed and recorded. If too much product has been dispensed, then the program will adjust the amount dispensed for the next visit. Our owners are in love with this earth-friendly method for salon waste, stating that; “It’s been really fantastic,” and because of this we “haven’t had enough over pours to even fill a Green Circle return bag yet”! 

West Kelowna’s BOTTEGA Salon is hopeful that other salons will follow suit. We would love to see more businesses make an effort to find more environmentally friendly options as we’ve done. Many companies are offering sustainable options for customers.

Visit BOTTEGA Salon Today For a Greener Haircut!

We are so excited to be a finalist for the Environmental Sustainability Award! Visit us today to get your hair styled at a salon that’s good for you and the environment!

Contact us today for more information on our sustainability journey!

2022 is here! We hope everyone enjoyed their holiday and is excited to start making a dent in their new year’s resolutions. If one of those is revamping your look, our West Kelowna hair salon has you covered. New hair could be just what you need to get those motivational juices flowing. We get all sorts of questions each day from our excited clients. Many of which, are reoccurring! To help ease the confusion surrounding some of our most asked questions, we decided to do an FAQ this month!

Continue reading below to find out the answers to your most pressing haircare questions. 

West Kelowna Hair Salon on a Trim vs. Cut 

At BOTTEGA Salon, our stylists often are asked the difference between a trim and a cut. There are various reasons why people think that getting a trim will be better for them than getting 6 inches off. Namely, price and time. However, what clients fail to realize is that we have to do the same amount of work no matter how much hair you wish for us to take off. Every cut, no matter how big or small, involves sectioning, cross-checking, layering (if you’re interested), thinning, etc.  So, this year when you come in for a haircut, remember that no matter what length you want to be taken off, it’s all the same to us! Get the hair length you want and visit us at our West Kelowna hair salon today!

Salon Vs. Drugstore Products.

The argument of Salon Vs. Drugstore products is an age-old debate that people constantly wonder about. Oftentimes, folks will opt for drugstore products because they are more convenient and affordable. Although Drug store products have many of the same ingredients, it is the amount and quality of those ingredients that make the difference. Cheaper products typically contain more fillers and less beneficial ingredients like vitamins and minerals. For example, a store-bought shampoo will likely contain more water and sulphates. Goldwell spends a lot of money on R&D to develop take-home products that are designed to support the longevity of their hair colours. Choosing between store-bought and salon-quality products can be a tricky one. 

Understanding what you want from your product can help you decide between the two. For example, if you want something that’s going to enhance and protect the colour you just got done on your hair, opting for a higher-grade shampoo and conditioner is best. However, if you are just looking to remove the everyday grease and grime that builds up, a drugstore shampoo can be all you need. On the other hand, when it comes to things like hair sprays and heat protectants, choosing the higher-quality one will be a better bang for your buck. Using poor-quality heat protectants can still leave your hair at risk for heat damage. Moreover, cheap hairspray can leave your hair with an unattractive texture and contain lots of harsh ingredients that can actually damage your hair. 

Our Stylists Want The Full Hair History.

When we ask clients about their hair history, we don’t want just the last colour that was done.  We want the full history—as in the last few years. Typically, it is perceived that when a colour is no longer visible it’s gone from the hair. We cannot stress enough how this is not true!  Especially, if a product was used that contains a metallic salt.

Metallic salts are used in nearly all standard store-bought hair dyes. The colours that appear from dyes with metallic salts are apparent because of a chemical reaction between the salts and the sulphur in your hair protein. With this in mind, if you choose to get highlights done, for instance, things can go seriously wrong. The lightener used to achieve this look will reveal everything that was done and can react with the molecules left in the hair. Thus, leaving you with hair you won’t be satisfied with.

By giving us a full hair history, we are better able to provide you with a great cut and colour! Failing to let us know the details can hinder our full potential to get you your dream look. 

West Kelowna Hair Salon Advises About Heat Tool Temperatures.

Dear Lord, this is by far the most asked question of our clients. Temperatures of heat tools are an important issue that needs to be addressed. Using heat tools at an excessively high heat causes severe damage to your hair. Hair is composed of various different bonds. The most important being keratin proteins. Using heat tools over 300℉ can cause the keratin to change. ⍺-keratin converts to β-keratin, in turn making your once luscious locks weak and void of any elasticity. Heat ruins hair through loss of moisture, the stripping of natural oils, and/or damaged cuticles. 

To help our clients better understand, we use these analogies:

The speedometer of a car usually goes up to 200Km/h but we don’t drive this fast, because it is dangerous. Same with our ovens—they will go up to about 550℉, but if you aren’t careful you will burn your food. Heat protectants for your hair are a must if you use a hot tool.  And for heavens sakes, turn the temps down! We recommend blow drying on medium heat and finishing with cool air. Flat iron’s and curling irons should not be at their highest.  Take your hair in smaller sections and don’t hold it in one place. 

For more information on all things hair, contact us today! We’d be happy to clear up any misconceptions or answer any questions that you may have.

Be sure to check out our social media for hair and salon-related information/updates. We look forward to seeing you at our West Kelowna hair Salon soon!

Hairstylists in West Kelowna are back again this month to clear up more misconceptions about all things hair! In a world of such demanding beauty standards, there are so many hoaxes that you must be wary of. Last month we covered a variety of misconceptions that we often hear from our clients.  In addition to this, we have decided to continue with this hot topic and shed even more light on other hair scams. Keep your hair feeling healthy and fresh by avoiding the following deceit 🙂

Continue reading below for more information on avoiding false hair tips.

Hairstylists in West Kelowna Warn About Over-Moisturizing.

There are hundreds of moisturizing products readily available for purchase. It feels as though beauty companies have designed a moisturizer for every body part these days. However, that doesn’t necessarily mean that our bodies need them. Oftentimes, we get clients who complain about having dry hair. Their answer to this problem is to slap all sorts of moisturizers on their hair. Although, this usually doesn’t remedy the problem. In fact, it typically worsens it. When it rains outside and your hair gets wet, there is routinely an eruption of frizz and loss of style. The same thing occurs in humid climates. Instead of reaching for a moisturizer or water-based product, grab something restorative or protective. These types of products are designed to close the cuticle so moisture can no longer ruin your good hair day! Talk to one of our hairstylists to find the perfect product for you.

Trimming ≠ Hair Growth.

It is commonly believed that trimming your hair will result in hair growth. Contrary to this popular belief, trimming your hair does not equal hair growth! We get all sorts of clients who frequently come in to receive trims. Despite their trimming efforts, there is usually less hair growth. If you want long hair, you need to give your hair time to grow out. It is recurrently assumed that hair growth starts from the ends. In actuality, hair growth starts from the scalp. People who maintain a healthy scalp will have healthy hair and more growth. Trimming will give the appearance that your hair looks healthier. However, if you trim at the same rate your hair grows, you won’t see any difference in length.  

Complaints about hair growth are common while clients are having their roots touched up. If you have re-growth at your root, then your hair is growing. Though, this could be a good indicator to look at the ends and get a good cut. Split ends will continue to split and make it seem as though the hair is not growing. Also, be cautious of how hot you set your heat tools. And please use a heat protectant!

Hairstylists in West Kelowna Urge Clients to Keep it Natural!

The temptation to switch up your hair and fight your natural style can be strong. Our hairstylists find that people are generally more content when they keep their natural hair. Fighting your curly or pin-straight locks usually results in unhappiness. If you have thick, thin, coarse, curly, or straight hair, it is better to work with what you have. Forcing your hair to do something unnatural can result in damage and cost more money. Most people experience better growth results when they leave their hair natural. For best results, we recommend embracing what you have! A great cut and/or colour can satisfy that craving for change without harming the integrity of your luscious locks. Come to BOTTEGA Salon today to get a style you’ll love!

My Hair is Immune to my Shampoo & Conditioner.

Did you find the holy grail of shampoo and conditioner and they suddenly stopped working? If this is the case, we’re here to assure you they still work just the same. However, there are a variety of factors that may give the appearance that your hair has become “immune”. Hair products like your shampoo and conditioner can react with weather conditions. Often, this will make it seem as though your hair is drier than usual, or maybe oilier. Dry and humid climates are usual culprits of these hair troubles. If your favourite products are changing the natural pH balance of your hair, it can produce the effect that your soaps aren’t as effective. Using quality products is essential in hair health. Washing your hair too often can also strip your hair of its natural oils and properties, thus affecting its appearance. 

Visit Hairstylists in West Kelowna Today!

We hope this article puts some of your most pressing hair questions to rest. Join us next month for an FAQ on all things hair. To book an appointment with us, contact us today. We’d be happy to help you feel great with one of our services. More information and examples of our latest styles can be found on our social media here! We look forward to seeing you soon at BOTTEGA Salon 🙂